“Since it was revealed that the executive budget proposal included a substantial cut to Aid and Incentives to Municipalities (AIM), my colleagues in the Assembly and I have been vocal about the serious impact it would have on New York’s communities and taxpayers. The Mohawk Valley’s local governments are already tasked with operating on narrow budgets, and the proposed $59 million statewide cut would have ultimately forced localities to either slash vital services and programs or raise property taxes on hardworking families.

“Fortunately, our voices were heard. The 2019-2020 state budget fully ensures municipalities receive funding they rely on, including over $325,000 for towns and villages in our area that stood to lose funding under the executive proposal. Our local governments work hard to provide residents with top-notch services and providing this funding ensures they won’t be forced to raise fees and taxes.”