Some Broome County residents may soon be able to cut their property tax bill by drinking beer.

A "Buy Local" initiative that's about to be introduced will feature a rewards program that will enable people to reduce their property taxes when they patronize participating businesses.

According to the Broome Estate Card website, "on every dollar you spend, a percentage is earned as a reward paid towards your property tax."

County Executive Jason Garnar says the goal is to help local businesses while helping residents reduce their taxes a bit.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Garnar said the card will be issued by a private company. Broome County will be the first locality in New York state to get involved.

Garnar said the county will be releasing more information about the program in the coming week. Additional local businesses are being recruited to participate in the promotion.

The Water Street Brewing Company in downtown Binghamton is one of the first local businesses to participate in the program. Purchases made there will entitle Estate Card holders to a "3% tax reward."

Owner Michele Bleichert says she's talked about the program with some customers and they like the idea. She views it as an "interesting promotion" to support local businesses.

Bleichert plans to sign up for the card herself to help reduce her own property taxes.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

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