Understanding Annexation
How does a city annex land?
Annexationis a legal process by which some property located in an unincorporated area of a township may become part of a neighboring city or village. The property must be “contiguous to” (next to and touching) the existing city or village boundary lines to qualify forannexation.
What is an annexation of property?
Annexation. The act of attaching, uniting, or joining together in a physical sense; consolidating. The term is generally used to signify the connection of a smaller or subordinate unit to a larger or principal unit. For example, a smaller piece ofland may beannexedto a larger one.
What does it mean to be contiguous?
Contiguous simply means touching or contacting. One of the criteria for annexation is that the property be contiguous or adjacent to the current City limits.
The Five Steps of Annexation
The process of annexation has five specific steps:
1. The filing of a petition
2. A legal sufficiency hearing
3. A public hearing
4. Judicial review by an appellate court
5. A judgment based on appellate court recommendation
***Each one of these steps has certain procedures and requirements which must be followed and met for an annexation petition to proceed smoothly.
Will there be a Referendum vote?
NO! Unfortunately, the legal process of annexation does not allow the public a chance to vote.
What does it mean to me?
Simply put…higher taxes unless you live in the city of Jamestown. The village of Falconer, town of Ellicott and Falconer Central School taxes will increase. And, since we are all now governed by a stringent tax cap, services in all entities will most likely need to be reduced to stay under the tax cap.
How can I help?
All residents in the village of Falconer, town of Ellicott, Falconer Central School district and ALL surrounding towns and villages should attend the Public Hearing on Monday, June 12th at the Falconer High School Auditorium at 7 PM.
This is your only opportunity to be heard!