As election season kicks off, it’s important for Erie County voters to stay informed about what’s on the ballot. One particular measure stands out because it directly undermines your voice as a taxpayer—and I strongly urge you to vote no. This measure would eliminate the need for a supermajority vote of the Legislature to extend the additional 1.75% temporary sales tax increase, replacing it with the vote of a simple majority. This would also remove the requirement for a public referendum on the matter.
Right now, every two years, the Legislature votes on whether to extend this tax. The supermajority requirement has been crucial in forcing negotiation among all sides, which has saved taxpayers millions and reduced the property tax levy. Without this safeguard, those negotiations disappear, and so do the savings. Worse, the proposal also removes the requirement of a ballot referendum if only passed by a simple majority. This means taxpayers will lose their voice in the process.
Another important issue is Proposition One. This proposal raises serious concerns about government overreach, especially when it comes to parental rights. A case can easily be made that this measure could even limit a parent’s say in their child’s healthcare decisions. Additionally, there are worries that this proposition could undermine fairness in women’s sports, threatening opportunities for female athletes. This is yet another example of Albany overstepping its bounds and taking decision-making power away from local communities.
Now, onto an issue that will hit every Erie County taxpayer directly: the 2025 budget proposal. As I write this, County Executive Poloncarz has unveiled his proposal that includes a $14 million tax levy hike—the largest in seven years. This comes on the heels of a $1 million levy cut last year, a pre-election political stunt designed to distract from what was coming. But here we are now, facing a $14 million increase in 2025, all while inflation continues to squeeze every family.
Despite a projected sales tax shortfall of roughly $20 million, this proposal adds more jobs and increases personnel costs. The county’s budget under County Executive Mark Poloncarz has more than doubled during his tenure, and now taxpayers are expected to foot the bill for this bloated spending. Taxpayers shouldn’t have to bear the cost of irresponsible management. I will continue to fight for fiscal responsibility and push for cuts that protect your wallet.
On a positive note, I’d like to take a moment to congratulate the Town of Aurora Senior Citizen Center on the 50th anniversary of their Stay Fit Dining Program. I also want to thank all teachers as we celebrate World Teachers’ Day.
If you have any county-related issues, I encourage you to call my office at 716-858-8922 or email me at Lindsay.Lorigo@erie.
Legislator Lorigo October 2024 Bee column
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