Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about town services in Hartwick, NY. If your question isn't answered here, call the relevant town department or email the Town Clerk.
Taxes & Assessments
When and where do I pay my town/county property taxes?
The Tax Collector collects real property taxes from January 1 through April 30 each year at the Town Clerk's Office, PO Box 275, Hartwick, NY 13348 — call (607) 293-8123. After April 30, payment must be made directly to the Otsego County Treasurer's Office. See the Tax Collector page.
Where do I pay school taxes?
School taxes are paid directly to the Business Office at Cooperstown Central School, 38 Linden Avenue, Cooperstown, NY 13326, (607) 547-5386.
What property tax exemptions are available?
The Assessor administers veteran, senior citizen, agricultural, railroad, commercial, and wholly exempt properties. Seniors over 65 may qualify for an income-based exemption — contact the Office of the Aging in the Annex Building in Cooperstown between 9 and 5. Veterans need a copy of their DD214 and property deed; contact the Veterans Agency in Cooperstown at (607) 547-4244.
What is Grievance Day?
Grievance Day is the fourth Tuesday of May, when the Assessment Board of Review hears complaints relating to assessments. Grievance forms are available from the Assessor's Office or the Town Clerk's Office after the tentative roll is filed, and the Assessor mails notice of assessment changes ten days prior.
Water & Highway
How is water billed?
Annual water rent is $150 for a residential service, billed straight twice a year at $75 per bill — in May for June through November, and in November for December through May. Unpaid water rents are relevied on next year's tax bill. See the Water Department page.
Who do I call about a water service problem?
Report problems to Ed Rood, Highway Superintendent, at (607) 293-8889. Fire hydrants are flushed yearly, with notification in the Daily Star beforehand.
Who takes care of town roads in winter?
The Highway Department handles snow and ice removal on all town roads, working 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and maintains the town water system.
Licenses & Records
How do I license my dog?
New York State requires all dogs over six months to be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. Licenses are obtained at the Town Clerk's Office. While Hartwick has no leash law, dogs may not leave their owner's property unless under the direct supervision of the owner.
What services does the Town Clerk provide?
The Clerk issues marriage and dog licenses, conservation licenses, handicapped parking permits, and voter registration forms; provides notary public and document certification services; collects water rent and property taxes; and answers general questions. See the Town Clerk's Office for current hours.
Where can I get a copy of a town record?
The Town Clerk, as Records Management Officer, is the legal custodian of town records and administrator of the Freedom of Information Law. Contact the Clerk's Office at (607) 293-8123. Published meeting minutes are also available on this site.
Court & Meetings
When is Town Court in session?
The Justice Court holds official hours on Wednesday evenings at 7 pm at the Town Hall Courtroom on East Main Street, and is available for arraignment 24 hours a day. The public is welcome to attend sessions.
When does the Town Board meet?
The Town Board meets on the second Monday of each month at 7:00 PM at the Town Hall. Items for the agenda should be submitted to the Supervisor or the Clerk no later than the Wednesday immediately preceding the meeting. The Planning Board meets the second Tuesday monthly at 7:00 pm.
Facilities
How do I reserve the Community Center or the Gazebo?
Applications for use of the Hartwick Community Center and the Hartwick Gazebo are available as PDFs on the forms page.
How do I report a fire or medical emergency?
Dial 911 immediately. Hartwick is served by two fire companies, each with a fully staffed Emergency Medical Squad — see the Fire Departments page.