I want to say thank you to the voters of Erie County for rejecting County Proposition One. It was a resounding victory, with more than 62% of voters turning thumbs down to the proposition that would have eliminated a public referendum on sales tax. Taking away checks and balances by limiting the public’s voice is a dangerous road to travel. Government works best when voters have a say in how their tax dollars are managed, and the actions their representatives take on their behalf. Moving forward I hope this is a lesson learned by those who tried to push policies that would have taken away the voices of the very people they represent.
The Legislature is dissecting the 2025 proposed spending plan sent to us by Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz. Last week we heard from department heads and commissioners, and earlier this week we held a public hearing on the proposed budget. It does trouble me that we are once again seeing a budget with increasing costs. The $1.96 billion spending plan is up almost 1.4% from 2024. Since Mark Poloncarz began proposing budgets, we have seen the cost increase by nearly 43%, with property taxes up $83 million. It is no secret that New York State is losing population. A big reason for that is the cost of a bloated government. I have five children and would love them to stay here in western New York. But when the government makes it difficult to do business here, and expands the size and cost of government operations, it becomes increasingly more difficult for many to stay. This is a trend that must not continue, and the Administration cannot continue adding programs and spending. It is not sustainable.
We have also learned that the migrants being housed in local hotels will be moved out by the end of this year. There were many broken promises surrounding the busing of these migrants to western New York. School districts were not fully reimbursed. In some cases, it impacted the teaching of our children through no fault of the district or educators, but because these districts were burdened with additional students and challenges, without the necessary support. It is not fair to anyone, and it isn’t right.
The holiday season is here, a joyous time for many, but a stressful time, as well. Rising costs at the grocery store and gas pump, as well as the expense of heat and electricity has been a burden on many households. If you can help this holiday season, there are many agencies, from FeedMore to the Salvation Army and others, looking to help put food on the table or gifts under the tree. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the many organizations that stand ready to help. Meanwhile, there are many community celebrations free of charge during the holidays. Take advantage of some of the offerings.
I hope you and your loved ones will enjoy a meaningful, happy holiday season. If you have a county-related issue, contact my office at (716) 681-2071 or by email Frank.Todaro@erie.gov
