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Molinaro presented the 2020 Executive Budget proposal to Dutchess County officials and community leaders at the Legislature’s Chambers in Poughkeepsie on Wednesday, Oct. 30. The proposal includes the largest property tax levy reduction in 20 years.
The budget also proposes a cut to the county property tax rate for homeowners and businesses for the fifth consecutive year while expanding programs and services for all residents.
“My 2020 Executive Budget provides historic tax cuts for our residents, continues to provide high-quality services and programs that benefit so many and funds new initiatives that will continue moving Dutchess County forward,” said Molinaro. “This budget is the result of months of diligent deliberation, aligning with our commitment to sound fiscal planning and responsible spending. I look forward to the Dutchess County Legislature’s thoughtful review, culminating in adoption of the budget that enhances the lives of all our residents.”
If this proposal gains County Legislature approval, property taxpayers will also see a 5 percent decrease in the tax rate on their property tax bill for the fifth straight year. The tax rate will be cut from $3.45 to $3.27 per $1,000 of true value assessments, Molinaro says.
Other highlights of the 2020 Executive Budget proposal include:
- Continued commitment to shared services and consolidation with $1 million budgeted for the Municipal Innovation Grant program.
- $1 million is allocated for community agencies to address specific needs in the community through the Agency Partner Grant (APG) program competitive application process, funding 20 agencies expected to serve 25,000 people
- $29.5 million in infrastructure investments, including replacement or repair of 13 bridges, 20 miles of paving and 9,000 miles of snow plowing
- Nearly $3.7 million for domestic violence and sexual assault prevention and response
- $150,000 in funding to help ensure quality childcare is available for all children in Dutchess County with partnerships with the Day One initiative and QUALITYstarsNY
- Continued support of Dutchess Community College with an additional $500,000 in funding support in 2020
Those interested in sharing feedback regarding the budget proposal can do so at the following town hall forums over the next several weeks:
- Roosevelt Fire Station #3, 830 Violet Avenue in Hyde Park on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 11 a.m.
- Millerton Library Annex, 28 Century Boulevard in Millerton on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 6 p.m.
- Beekman Town Hall, 4 Main Street in Poughquag on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 6 p.m.
“Dutchess County is getting better every day,” said Molinaro. “Together, we've cut taxes and held the line on spending while making the critical investments this community needs. My 2020 Budget will work for us.”
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