52°
The $456.2 million budget passed with few amendments to Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro’s tentative county budget, which he proposed in October.
The budget cuts the property tax levy for the second consecutive year without a reduction in services or programs. It also lowers the property tax rate for the first time in eight years.
"This county budget is the result of our continued conservative approach to fiscal management and our determination to maintain the quality of life our residents deserve," Molinaro said in a statement.
Highlights include:
- Property tax levy reduction of more than $1 million
- Property tax freeze credit rebates ensured through shared service and consolidation while remaining under tax cap
- No new taxes
- The merger of Departments of Health and Mental Hygiene into the Department of Behavioral and Community Health under one commissioner
- Establishment of a crisis stabilization center
- Money for domestic violence and sexual assault prevention services
- More than $1.5 million increase in family supportive services
- Continued investment in economic development increased tourism promotion and agricultural support
- A $10.8 million infrastructure investment
The legislature still must approve the tax levy at its Tuesday, Dec. 15 meeting.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Southwest Dutchess and receive free news updates.
