Oneida County Budget Address

The county executive gave his 2012 budget address today and he said, quote once again, we are demonstrating that we can do more with less. "Today, I am submitting for the consideration of the Board of Legislators a proposed 2012 budget that increases the county property tax levy by 2%." That announcement was one of many that County Executive Picente made today in front of the board of legislators. The 2012 budget is just over 360 million dollars that is less than a one percent increase from the 2011 budget. But Picente says this year's budget was more difficult to put together than previous years. "Without a doubt, you can't say one is easier than others, so there are areas that are of concern, while it's a responsible budget as I said, it's a strong budget, it does hinge on the state of New York and what they do." The 2012 budget is up from last year's due in part to rising cost of mandated programs, which means some programs funds will be cut. "I think it's very sad that the state hasn't done what they could to make our jobs that much more easier. I think it's sad when we have to cut libraries and some of the services that the people really need and utilize." The county's money comes mainly from sales tax and department income and the state is contributing nearly 55 million dollars. Where does the money go? Human services account for 51 percent and public safety and works add twenty five percent on top of that. All in all the county is relying on the state to step up and provide help. "The commitment and the promise was do the cap, we'll give you the relief, well we've done the cap, now we want the relief."