20.178 An Order to Increase Personal Property Tax Exemption Threshold to 2,500City of Northampton
MASSACHUSETTS
_________
In City Council January 7, 2021
Upon recommendation of the Mayor
20.178 An Order to Increase Personal Property Tax Exemption Threshold to $2,500
Whereas, personal property is subject to local property taxation in Massachusetts
unless specifically exempted by law depending on the ownership entity or use of the property;
Whereas, tangible personal property consists of goods, merchandise, equipment, tools,
machinery, furnishings and effects and other movable property;
Whereas, all personal property, owned by Massachusetts and non-Massachusetts
residents and businesses that are situated in Massachusetts on January 1, is taxable unless an
exemption applies;
Whereas, MGL Chapter 59, s. 5 (54) allows for a local option exemption for small
personal property accounts in municipalities that accept this section and further requires the
municipality to establish a minimum fair cash value required for personal property accounts to be
taxed, and to modify that value from time to time;
Whereas, City Council previously in December of 2017 set the minimum value of
personal property subject to taxation at $1000 and the Principal Assessor is recommending that
the minimum be raised to $2,500 which will eliminate the issuance of quarterly personal
property tax bills of such low value, will not result in significant revenue loss and will provide
welcome relief to small local business:
Ordered, that, the City of Northampton hereby accepts the provisions of Massachusetts
General Law Chapter 59, s 5, (54) and in accordance therewith establishes a minimum value of
personal property subject to taxation of $2,500.