Chesapeake Beach Weighs Property Tax Credit For Disabled Law Enforcement And Rescue Workers

CHESAPEAKE BEACH, Md. — At the most recent work session on Tuesday, Jan. 6, the Chesapeake Beach Town Council considered ideas for a property tax credit for totally disabled veterans and rescue workers.

Calvert County already has a tax credit for disabled law enforcement, rescue workers and their surviving spouses. The proposed action would mirror the county’s ordinance to ensure a fair and comprehensive system.

Additionally, any beneficiaries would have to meet existing conditions about what constitutes total disability. These definitions are set by the state or state agencies, or defined in the person’s pension plan. Chesapeake Beach would need to verify that applicants are already considered totally disabled, rather than making the decision on who qualifies.

Chesapeake Beach residents pay a municipal property tax in addition to Calvert County property tax, so those who would qualify for the Chesapeake Beach tax credit likely already qualify for the Calvert County tax credit.

Former Town Council member Stewart Cumbo presented the proposal and estimated that four people in the town would be eligible for the credit, and urged the Town Council to consider it on the grounds of being the right thing to do.

“These are not abstract beneficiaries,” Cumbo said. “These are men and women who put on the uniform, answered the call to help, and were permanently injured in the line of duty while protecting our communities. Their service did not end by choice, it ended because their bodies could no longer withstand the cost.”