The Fairbanks North Star Borough Assembly voted Friday to relieve local homeowners of some of the weight of property taxes, with certain valid excuses.
Following a 5-3 vote, the panel passed a measure that would cut the 10% late fee in half, and provide some leniency to homeowners who can't make the scheduled date to pay their taxes following a natural disaster or other unavoidable occurrence that would impede them.
Assemblyman Lance Roberts, the measure's sponsor, says he sympathizes with homeowners who are struggling despite their best intentions.
Appeals for the fees and interest from late payments will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.