The New York Law School (NYLS) community congratulates Adjunct Professor Robert J. Firestone ’90 on his appointment as President of the New York City Tax Commission. He was officially confirmed by the New York City Council on May 28, 2025, following his nomination by Mayor Eric Adams.
The New York City Tax Commission serves as an independent body responsible for reviewing annual real property tax assessments issued by the City’s Department of Finance. As its new President, Professor Firestone brings over 40 years of expertise in state and city tax matters.
A native New Yorker, Professor Firestone has demonstrated a deep commitment to public service throughout his entire career. He has served for 18 years as a Commissioner of the New York City Tax Appeals Tribunal—a role he will continue to fulfill alongside his presidency. The Tax Appeals Tribunal is an appellate panel of three Commissioners hearing and deciding appeals from administrative law judge determinations in tax cases under the City’s business, income, and non-property excise taxes.
He previously served as a Hearing Officer for the Tax Commission, hearing more than 26,000 property tax valuation applications. His career also includes 13 years with the New York City Law Department’s Tax and Bankruptcy Litigation Division and private practice at Sullivan & Cromwell. Learn more about Professor Firestone’s background.
Professor Firestone has been part of the NYLS family for over three decades, returning to teach State and Local Taxation after graduating from the School. His appointment as Tax Commission President reflects his lifelong dedication to public service. The NYLS community celebrates this well-deserved recognition of his expertise and lasting impact on New York City.