By Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz
I am pleased to announce the Erie County Legislature unanimously approved my proposed 2025 county budget with very minor alterations. The final spending plan came together thanks to my partners in the Legislature willing to work with my team to approve a budget that addresses the needs of our community. Most importantly, it cuts property taxes to their lowest rate ever. This marks the seventh consecutive year that my administration has reduced the tax rate.
The adopted budget lowers county property taxes by decreasing the tax rate from $3.39 for 2024 to $3.28 for 2025. It also continues to make significant investments in various areas, including funding for libraries, parks, public safety and tourism promotion. I thank Legislature Chair April Baskin, Majority Leader Tim Meyers, Minority Leader John Mills and the eight other legislators for supporting my requests to invest in important projects across the county. Their leadership and willingness to work collaboratively resulted in approval of a responsible and balanced spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year.
While the budget has been approved, our work does not end. My administration will closely monitor the budget throughout the new year to ensure Erie County is on the strongest possible budgetary footing in 2025. My commitment to fiscal responsibility is something I take great pride in. Just like we are trending to end 2024 “in the black,” we will work hard to do the same in 2025.
Just as I have done throughout my 13 years serving as your County Executive, I remain committed to investing the people’s money wisely. This budget includes $116 million to be spent on various capital projects, including $15 million for public safety initiatives, $4.5 million for roof repairs and other maintenance work at the Buffalo & Erie County Central Library, and $2.6 million earmarked for park enhancements that will be done throughout the county.
Additionally, I want to remind everyone this month that the Erie County Department of Health has an online resource dedicated to winter storms, extreme cold, and other topics associated with inclement weather. You can read health-related messages, find safety tips and learn more by visiting www.erie.gov/WINTER to access important emergency information.
Finally, in the spirit of the holidays, I would like to extend seasonal greetings to all county residents and best wishes for a safe, joyous and peaceful holiday season. Cherish the time you spend with your family and friends as you make wonderful holiday memories that you can treasure forever.