Ontario County has approved a $338 million budget for 2025, marking a 3.46% tax increase. Finance Director Mary Gates attributed a $45.7 million spending rise to changes in health insurance funding, which inflate the overall budget by $20 million. The tax levy for 2025 stands at $83.6 million, with a 40-cent drop in the tax rate to $5.58 per $1,000 of assessed value.
David Baker, chair of the Ways and Means Committee, praised county staff for navigating inflation and rising costs while aligning with the state tax cap.
The budget focuses on public safety, social services, and employee benefits while fostering partnerships with community organizations. Baker emphasized Ontario County’s growth in population and property values as pivotal to meeting residents’ needs.
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