Critics Claim Trump Cheated Wappingers Schools Out of $31K

Critics of Donald Trump say the the self-proclaimed billionaire has cheated several Hudson Valley communities out of money.

After claims surfaced during the Presidential election that Trump did not pay federal income taxes for several years, the candidate countered by saying he has many properties that pay state and local taxes.

Documents published in the Huffington Post, however, show several small communities throughout the country where Trump has fought to lower his taxes, even allegedly claiming his properties were worth less than they actually are.

In April the town of East Fishkill settled a case with Trump after he fought to retroactively lower the value of the Trump National Hudson Valley Golf Course. He claimed the property was worth $4.6 million in 2015, not the $6 million at which he was assessed.

Filings with the FEC, however, show that the property was actually worth as much as $25 million.

Because of the settlement, the the tax revenue was taken back from the community and the town was required to pay for an audit. The Wappingers School District alone had to fork over $31,000 to Donald Trump.

In addition, over $5,000 in tax revenues were taken back from the county. East Fishkill had to return just over $4,000 and the East Fishkill Fire Department reimbursed Trump $1,066. The billionaire even took back $307 from the local public library.

Trump has claimed in the past that he has filed lawsuits like this because that's what good businessmen do. His supporters agree, saying it proves that he is good with money and that's what makes him a better choice to steer the economy.

In October the East Fishkill Library hosted a used book sale to raise money needed for operations. The Hopewell Hose Company, part of the East Fishkill Fire Department, solicits donations on their website to defray the cost of maintaining their building. They add that the 100% volunteer department relies on tax dollars "for equipment and supplies that are essential for (the department) to operate at fire and EMS calls."

 
Bonus Video