Statement by John F. (Jack) Marren, President of the NYSAC and Chairman of the Ontario County Board of Supervisors

• By: NYSAC
• On: 04/27/2020 11:25:28
• In: Press Releases

"According the state Division of the Budget (DOB), the latest spending deficit is projected to be $13.3 Billion. This budget deficit is fueled by the partial shutdown of the state's economy that has reduced state revenues in the current fiscal year, with the expectation that these revenue shortfalls will continue through 2024.   

"In response, the state is now considering a 50% cut to local governments and a 10% cut to state agencies. That cut equals nearly $1.25 billion for counties across the state, outside of New York City.  

"Meanwhile, the revenue losses for the counties will mirror the revenue losses for the state. Counties outside of NYC are projecting $2 billion in just lost sales tax revenue alone, a 50% decline in casino revenues and numerous other revenue losses at the local level including occupancy taxes and related tourism fees that offset local property taxes.
 
"County leaders urge state officials to understand that local taxpayers are in no position to backfill state funding cuts and that flexibility to reduce the costs of program and services that are provided at the local level is needed. County leaders join with state leaders to urge the federal government pass a stimulus package that provides direct funding to states and local governments for lost revenues and the increased costs of responding to the pandemic and recession."