On Wednesday, the Livingston County Board of Supervisors continued its investment in broad-reaching initiatives, programs and policies after unanimously voting to adopt a $180.6 million fiscal year 2023 budget proposed by County Administrator Ian M. Coyle.
The budget significantly advances several innovative County-led programs, invests in numerous projects and initiatives that are central to the County’s long-term plans and provides funding to support its mission to become an employer of choice throughout the Finger Lakes region. Furthermore, this budget funds Pre-K special education services, community college tuition, public safety, election administration expenses, services for veterans, roads, bridges and other critical infrastructure, senior nutrition, a robust hospice program as well as scores of other departments, programs and projects all designed to improve the lives of our residents while positioning the County for both present and future endeavors.
“As we embark on another budget and calendar year, there is much to be excited about,” added Coyle. “Livingston County and its employees continue to be recognized locally, regionally and nationally for their innovative, progressive work and the County is taking historic actions to bolster its workforce and prepare residents for in-demand careers. I would like to personally thank the County government staff for their commitment to dedicated service and their work in moving this budget forward.”
In addition to providing funding for several programs, initiatives, infrastructure and more, the budget also decreases the tax rate by 16.9% from the 2022 rate. The County’s tax levy, or the amount of taxes collected from properties in the County, will see a nominal increase of 4.62% to counteract inflationary measures and a recessionary economic environment. An override of the New York State tax cap was required and was passed by the Board prior to the budget’s adoption.
The budget also allocates funding for its continued pursuit of broadband access for all County residents through its Light Up Livingston strategy and accounts for the financial sustainability associated with the Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation – the County’s only skilled nursing and rehabilitation center and one of the largest facilities within the region.
“Our fiscal responsibility has allowed for us to plan for our future in efficient ways including this budget,” continued Coyle. “Our financial standing was recently ranked by the New York State Comptroller’s Office as one of the healthiest in the state while our bond ratings continue to be high. We have a strong five-year Capital Improvement Plan, Shared Services Initiatives and have millions left to spend in unappropriated allocations through the American Rescue Plan Act.”
With the budget’s approval, the County’s Board of Supervisors will embolden its tradition of financial support for non-profit organizations including the Genesee Valley Council on the Arts, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Livingston County and the Pioneer Library System to name a few.
“The budget adopted by the Board represents a forward-thinking investment in our County’s future,” said David L. LeFeber, Chairman of the Livingston County Board of Supervisors. “With the potential for uncertain financial conditions in the future, rising inflationary costs and challenges across the nation in retaining and attracting a skilled workforce, this budget positions the County to not only overcome any unforeseen circumstances, but also focuses on its long-term plans for the future of Livingston County.”
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