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"This is a responsible fiscal plan that begins the historic redesign of county operations," Day said. "Our goal is to create an affordable government. We've made the hard choices to set our county on a path to prosperity."
This year's proposed budget comes with a a property tax levy increase of 4.95%, which equals $4 a month for Rockland County homeowners, he said.
County taxes account for approximately seven percent of a typical property tax bill. The remaining taxes are levied by schools, municipal governments and special districts. The exact amount of the county tax levy on property owners varies from community to community due to different local assessments.
The proposed budget seeks to improve Rockland's standing with the major credit rating agencies, which have given two upgrades since Day took over.
Last week, New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli said that Rockland County is no longer New York's most "fiscally stressed" local government.
The proposed budget now goes to the County Legislature, which has until December 7 to adopt a final spending plan.
"To better align our workforce with the taxpayer's ability to pay, we have steadily reduced staffing levels since I took office. From commissioners to receptionist and everyone in between," Day said. "The county's headcount, 1,659 full-time positions, will be the lowest in 25 years."
Some significant details of the proposed budget include: the closing of Summit Park Hospital and Nursing Care Center; an early retirement incentive for employees, sale of property and others.
Residents are encouraged to contact Day by email at Q&AEdDay@co.rockland.ny.us. To view the entire budget visit www.rocklandgov.com.
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