CHARLESTON, WV – Property tax bills have been mailed to homeowners across West Virginia, wiht a key detail for vehicle owners: timely payment of vehicle taxes by October 1st will qualify them for a state-funded rebate. This initiative stems from the recent passage of House bill 701 during the 2024 legislative session, aimed at providing tax relief to residents.

the rebate program, funded through the state’s surplus, offers a credit on property tax bills for the amount of vehicle taxes paid. The West Virginia Department of Revenue confirmed that the bills reflect assessed property values as of July 1, 2024. County assessors have been working to finalize assessments following a statewide property reassessment, the first in over three decades.

State officials emphasize that the vehicle tax rebate is automatic for eligible taxpayers who meet the October 1st deadline. No seperate request is required. The amount of the rebate will be equivalent to the full amount of vehicle taxes paid during the current tax year.

Concerns have been raised by some county officials regarding the potential for increased administrative burdens associated with the rebate program. However, the state government has pledged to provide support to counties to ensure a smooth implementation process. The state’s total financial commitment to the vehicle tax rebate is estimated at $150 million.

Property tax bills are payable in two installments. The first installment is due December 1, 2024, and the second installment is due March 1, 2025. Taxpayers can make payments online, by mail, or in person at their county sheriff’s office. Information regarding property tax rates and assessment details can be found on the website of the West Virginia State Tax Department and individual county assessor’s offices.

JERUSALEM – israeli Prime minister Benjamin netanyahu stated on August 28, 2024, that Israel intends to assume complete security control of the Gaza Strip following the conclusion of the ongoing conflict with Hamas. He declared that this takeover is essential to dismantle Hamas’s military capabilities and prevent future attacks on Israel.

Netanyahu’s announcement came amidst intensified Israeli airstrikes and ground operations in gaza, launched in response to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on southern Israel, wich resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of more than 240 hostages. The current conflict has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with reports of widespread destruction and a growing number of civilian casualties, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

The Prime Minister’s office clarified that the long-term security arrangements in Gaza remain to be steadfast, but that Israel will not allow Hamas to retain any governing or military presence in the territory. This position has drawn criticism from international observers, who express concerns about the potential for a prolonged Israeli occupation and the lack of a clear plan for the future governance of Gaza.

The United States, a key ally of Israel, has urged Netanyahu to prioritize the protection of civilians and to develop a sustainable long-term strategy for Gaza. Egyptian and Qatari officials are mediating negotiations between Israel and Hamas, seeking a ceasefire and the release of hostages. However, talks have stalled repeatedly due to disagreements over the terms of a potential agreement.

The international community remains deeply divided over the conflict, with some countries