Hold Columbia and NYU accountable for paying their fair share of property taxes

During clashes between police in riot gear and anti-Israel student protesters causing chaos and property destruction on campuses in the city, the issue of whether Columbia and NYU should be exempt from property taxes is brought into question.

These universities saved a combined $327 million last year due to a long-standing law that exempts universities and nonprofits from paying property taxes.

As they acquire more real estate in the city, Columbia being the largest private landowner and NYU closely following, while allowing their students to cause trouble, the argument for continuing their tax exemption is becoming weak.

A bill was introduced by Assembly lawmakers in December to remove the exemption for universities saving more than $100 million a year (impacting only Columbia and NYU) and using the funds to support the City University of New York.

Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, the sponsor of the bill, stated, “This bill aims to address universities that operate more as landlords and developers than institutions of higher education.”

While Mamdani’s motives may lean towards tax advocacy, he does raise a valid point about the universities’ activities beyond education.

On top of their extensive real estate holdings and hiring of non-education-related administrators, universities have shifted focus towards fundraising, leaving them ill-equipped to handle disruptive student behavior.

The push for DEI-driven indoctrination over education has also raised concerns, along with the argument that universities contribute to the local economy and pay fees for local economic development.

However, the current situation with radicalized students causing havoc near campuses, disrupting campus life, and potentially deterring prospective students raises doubts about the value of these institutions.

NYU and Columbia’s current contribution to New York City seems to be chaos, prompting calls for a reevaluation of their tax-exempt status through the state Constitution amendment process.

It is essential for legislators to consider taking steps to address the universities’ behavior and restore New York City’s reputation.