Meet the Uncontested Candidate for TOE Receiver of Taxes: Rocco Cacciola

Continuing our coverage of the Town of Eastchester (TOE) political candidates for this November’s elections, we profile the incumbent and uncontested candidate for the position of Receiver of Taxes, Rocco Cacciola.

Here is what Cacciola -- who works in a private practice as an attorney -- had to say about the elections when Patch caught up with him:

Patch-1: Imagine you were speaking with someone completely unfamiliar with local government. How would you describe the duties and responsibilities of the position for which you are running for? [Receiver of Taxes] 

Rocco Cacciola-1: Our office is responsible for calculating the tax rates and the collection of  taxes for the Town of Eastchester, Westchester County, the Eastchester Fire District, the Eastchester School District and The Tuckahoe School District. Taxes for the Town, County and Fire District are due in April and School taxes are due in September and January.

Patch-2: What do you see as the single most critical issue facing the Town of Eastchester Board in the coming years of the term for which you are running? How will this issue affect the taxes paid by Eastchester residents and the position of Receiver of Taxes? 

Cacciola-2: I believe it’s the 2% tax cap. Without relief from Albany from unfunded mandates, the taxpayer will suffer at the local level of government.

Patch-3: How do you think your previous local government experience will help you in your uncontested bid for Receiver of Taxes?

Cacciola-3: I am a former Trustee in the Village of Tuckahoe and former Councilman for Eastchester. I believe being involved in both Village and Town government gives me a better understanding of what the residents needs are and what they expect from our office as taxpayers.

Since being elected to this position, I offered extended hours during the collection periods making it easier for taxpayers to pay their taxes. Also, I have done away with lockbox and do all of the payments in house saving the town money. Finally, I have added remote capture capabilities to town hall which allows us to directly deposit the money in the bank which allows the town use of the money much more quickly. 

In the next few months a program will be installed in our office which will allow residents to receive both tax bills and receipts via email. This will result in a savings for the Town in postage and envelopes.

Patch-4: Is there anything we haven't discussed that you would like the residents of Eastchester to know about the candidate, Rocco Cacciola?

Cacciola-4: I am a lifelong resident of Tuckahoe/Eastchester and I am a graduate of Eastchester High School, Pace University and St. John’s School of Law. I am married to Roseann Cacciola and have 4 children, Christopher, Danielle, Mark & Abigail.

Click on the name of the following candidates to see their interviews: r (Town Councilman, D),  (Town Councilman, R),  (Town Councilman, D),  (Town Councilman, R).