As I dig into the Erie County Executive’s proposed 2026 budget, one thing is immediately clear: this is not a budget that prepares us for the future. It’s a budget that grows government at a time when we should be tightening our belts.
The spending plan totals $2.081 billion — a $113 million increase over last year. Since 2021, county spending has risen by $704 million. That is significant growth in a short period of time, and it isn’t happening because taxpayers suddenly became wealthier or because household budgets are getting easier. It’s happening because government continues adding long-term, recurring expenses faster than we take in dependable, recurring revenue.
That trend becomes even more concerning when you look at how the budget was built in recent years. Several ongoing programs were launched with one-time American Rescue Plan dollars. Those federal funds were temporary, but the costs they created are permanent. One example is the ambulance initiative. It provides important service to residents, including many in my district, and I support its mission. But it was built on one-time federal money with no long-term funding plan in place — and now it requires millions of dollars each year from the local tax base. It’s a clear illustration of why relying on temporary dollars to start permanent programs creates long-term pressure.
Property taxes also deserve an honest explanation. While the County Executive points to a lower property tax rate, the County is collecting more money than ever before because assessments continue to rise sharply. A lower rate does not mean people are paying less — it simply reflects higher property values, not higher incomes or greater financial comfort. Residents are not suddenly living more luxurious lives; they are being asked to pay more because of rising assessments and growing government.
Even the County Executive has acknowledged what is ahead, referring to upcoming budgets as “dead flowers and arsenic.” Those are his words, not mine — but they confirm the seriousness of the financial path we are on. The Comptroller’s review puts numbers behind those warnings. One year ago, projected budget gaps were between $9.1 million and $19.6 million. Today, those projections have jumped to between $83.6 million and $95.3 million. That is a dramatic shift in a single year and a sign that our current spending trajectory is not sustainable.
Despite those pressures, this proposal still adds positions, adds programs, and adds new county assets like the Amherst Golf Park. At the same time, residents are being told to prepare for breaking the state property tax cap and raising taxes by at least 11%. Families should not be asked to pay more because government refuses to slow the pace of its own growth.
Earlier this week, at the budget public hearing, residents spoke clearly about their concerns. They understand what’s at stake, and they deserve a responsible, forward-looking budget that honestly confronts the challenges ahead rather than passing them down the line.
As always, my office is supporting families through the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Drive running through November. We are collecting household essentials — laundry supplies, soap, disinfectant wipes, towels, trash bags, and similar items. For a full list of drop-off sites, please visit my Facebook page, Legislator Lindsay Lorigo, or call my office. I’m grateful in advance for every contribution.
I hope you enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday with those you love. If you have thoughts on this budget or need help with a county issue, please call my office at (716) 858-8922 or email Lindsay.Lorigo@erie.gov.
