By Bob Katzen

Senate 38-0, approved an amendment that would allow cities and towns to give temporary property tax breaks to farmers for building new buildings and/or renovating structures that are essential to farming – including barns, storage facilities, worker housing structures and structures used as indoor arenas for training and exercising horses that are used to help on the farm. The tax exemption applies only to the added value from new or rebuilt buildings and is valid for five years. If the building is used for non-agricultural purposes prior to the 5-year period, the owner would be required to pay back the taxes that were exempt.

“This measure provides our farmers with the support they need to invest in their operations without being immediately burdened by higher property taxes,” said Sen. Patrick O’Connor (R-Weymouth). “By offering targeted, temporary relief, we’re helping to sustain local agriculture and protect working lands. This is a practical step toward strengthening food security and the economy.”

Amendment sponsor Sen. Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) did not respond to repeated requests from Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him to comment on his amendment and its passage.

(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen Yes