October 30, 2002
BUDGET MESSAGE FROM THE OFFICE OF THE SUPERVISOR
With the threat of shrinking revenues, 2003 presents a challenge to governments at all levels. Fortunately, the Town Board in it's wisdom has refrained from wild tax swings during my administration, and instead has created a Tax Stability Program by judiciously setting aside reserve funds each year. This program has been a real benefit in past years. Without these reserves this year, we would see a devastating tax increase in 2003.
By applying $529,207 of General Fund Reserves, I am once again able to recommend a zero Town Tax increase for 2003. Without this Fund Reserve, we would see a tax increase of nearly 25 percent.
The employee salaries for next year have been set by action of the entire Town Board based on a professionally prepared Wage and Salary Administration study, which the Board further customized.
We have been able to absorb the salary increases resulting from the study, along with sizeable jumps in health insurance, general insurance, and cost of living increases during this difficult fiscal environment, because of our Tax Stability Program. With a view to difficult economic times in the years ahead, I will ask the Town Board to further intensify this program which has proven to be so beneficial.
Sy Globerman
Supervisor
