The Erie County Legislature passed an amended 2025 spending plan Thursday by a vote of 11-0, after Republican lawmakers worked with legislators across the aisle to eliminate jobs and increases in spending. The amendments included eliminating new fees and protecting the share of mortgage recording tax revenue for local cities, towns and villages.
“I’m pleased we were able to reach a compromise agreement to the County Executive’s $2.1 billion spending plan. This budget is balanced, and it funds programs and institutions that are important and impactful to the region,” said Minority Leader and Erie County Legislator John Mills.
“There was some give and take in these budget negotiations, but ultimately the needs of this county are addressed. We had productive conversations, and made sure organizations and departments that address quality of life concerns were properly funded, while also eliminating new positions. This is a reasonable budget that addresses the need to control spending going forward,” said Legislator Frank Todaro.
“This is how government is supposed to work. The eleven legislators came together to make amendments to the County Executive’s proposed 2025 budget that were reasonable. We know there will be some financial challenges on the horizon, so we were able to cut some positions to reduce spending, we eliminated new fees and made sure the mortgage tax revenue that our communities rely on remained intact,” said Legislator Chris Greene.
“We were able to cut unnecessary new positions and eliminate proposed new fees while still funding vital roadwork, police services and community projects. With clear warning signs that Erie County will face financial challenges in the years ahead, it’s more important than ever to tighten our belts and ensure a stable and responsible financial future for our taxpayers,” said Legislator Lindsay Lorigo.
The Republican Caucus advocated for changes that cut new jobs and fees, while maintaining proper funding levels for cultural groups, charities and community organizations.
