Crooklyn has its own garbage trucks. The proof was posted in a JWD thread a few months ago. You may be able to find it with google. I've heard Crooklyn has its own ambulance too but haven't seen proof.
So to answer defd's question, it is my understanding they do not pay sales tax, property tax, or income tax as a tax-exempt org. My state, NEW YORK, is very poor. I live in upstate and let me tell you it is a struggle here and has been for the 20 yrs I've been in the workforce. There has been a public outcry here to delete the tax-exempt status of religious institutions and colleges.
The Crooklyn facility is large and would generate a pretty penny in property tax alone. The raw materials they buy for publications as well as all the stuff they buy to support the staff (the garbage trucks, food, etc.) would normally generate a LOT of sales tax revenue. Yet they pay nothing (so I'm told).
Those of us stupid enough to try to start small businesses in NY quickly learn the cards are stacked against us. WE have to collect the sales tax to make up for what the non-profits do not collect. Thus customers have to pay an additional 8.25% fee on top of what we charge for our goods and services. Our property taxes are some of the highest in the country. My property tax costs the same as my mortgage!
The WTS is taking advantage (legally) of what "Caesar" has to offer. Another example--how do Bethelites pay their medical bills if they have a serious illness? Medicaid?
