Glens Falls boards unanimously extend sales‑tax exemption deadlines for two South Street projects

The Glens Falls City development boards voted May 22 to extend the deadlines for two previously approved sales‑and‑use tax exemptions on South Street projects, approving staff recommendations that preserve the originally authorized dollar amounts but lengthen the time allowed to complete eligible fit‑outs.

The board considered a letter from Chris Patton asking that the tax abatement for 4556 South Street be extended through Sept. 30, 2026, and discussed a similar request for Phase One B of the Bachio development. Jeff, the board's CEO, told members the residential components of the projects are largely occupied but several commercial fit‑outs remain unfinished; he said the extension is intended to allow completion of those tenant fit‑outs and is “an extension in timing only,” not an increase of the previously approved benefit.

Members pressed staff on why an occupied unit would still qualify for the exemption; the board clarified that the exemptions apply to the purchase of construction materials and fit‑out work that remain outstanding, not to rent already being collected. Jeff said the applicants reported they have not exceeded the originally authorized sales‑tax amount and that the request is solely to extend the period during which qualifying purchases can be made.

After discussing whether to extend through September or to follow the agenda language allowing a Dec. 31, 2026 deadline, the board adopted resolutions to extend the exemptions and directed staff to process the extension paperwork with the state. The motions passed with no recorded nays or abstentions.

What happens next: staff will file the extension documents with the state and post updated meeting materials. The board did not change authorized dollar amounts for either project; it recorded the extensions as schedule adjustments to allow remaining fit‑out work to be completed.