FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Statement from Albany County Executive Daniel McCoy on Budget Adoption

I approve this budget with additions and increases as the execution of a veto would only make our ability to operate more difficult and would not achieve a more responsible budget. The financial burdens placed on County governments have never been greater than they are right now. The 2013 budget, as passed by the legislature, presents the County with some very difficult challenges to overcome. Again, I commend the legislature for their examination of the budget and attempt to responsibly lessen the tax burden on County taxpayers. However, it is not possible to remove revenue generating positions without likewise adjusting the amount of revenue to be generated. The budget I put forth provided a road map to a more efficient and effective Albany County government not only for next year, but the coming years as well. To achieve this, we must move forward with my proposal for the Albany County Nursing Home, continue to reduce costs, improve efficiencies and push for mandate relief. That is the only way we will be able to craft a budget that comes in under the tax cap, while ensuring the long-term stability of our finances. I will continue to work to protect our seniors and our taxpayers while improving the financial future of Albany County and am hopeful that the legislature will work in partnership with me to make that happen. I would much prefer to work with the Legislature in a supportive environment. That requires, however, that the cooperation be sincere. Our doors remain open to meet informally with Legislators to discuss updates on our financial condition and to discuss options. ###