Albany County Republican & Conservative Conference Agenda 

This year’s budget is a mix of good and bad for Albany County taxpayers. Starting with the good, I proudly support a 10% cut to the property tax rate, investments in new County green spaces and a continuation of critical services and programs throughout our communities. My Republican colleagues and I have held the line on taxes for years and are proud to say that the county property tax rate has been reduced by 28% since 2014.

Sadly, a majority of our debates in this budget process ended up focusing on several excessive pay raises for county elected officials. Our time and resources would’ve been much better spent elsewhere, especially as hardworking middle-class families struggle to pay their bills or put food on their tables.

I am disappointed my Democratic colleagues voted down our Conference’s proposal to put us in the same equitable pay grade as rank-and-file County workers. I’m also disappointed they voted against our proposal to provide additional funding for County veterans, seniors and our budget reserves; instead they are funding an unproven “migrant transportation” program with 100,000 of our taxpayer dollars and no government oversight.

County taxpayers deserve responsible fiscal planning and openness from government leaders. They deserve an enhanced quality of life and emphasis on public safety. While we have made important strides in these areas, we must always strive to do better for the people we represent.