Governor Eliot Spitzer’s first budget proposal is the best I’ve seen in years. His plan includes what I have been fighting for – a sound investment in education and tax relief for working families.

It’s no secret that New Yorkers pay among the highest taxes in the nation. Fortunately, Governor Spitzer’s plan focuses tax relief on the middle class and seniors who need it the most. As it stands, property taxes for middle class New Yorkers, especially here in the Hudson Valley, are rising too fast for their incomes – and choking our economy.

Under a new Middle Class STAR proposal included in the Executive budget, New Yorkers would see STAR tax relief increase based on a sliding scale tied to income. For a resident in Sullivan County, the average STAR savings would increase from $697 to as much as $1,255. Enhanced STAR benefits for seniors would rise from $1,170 to $1,521. For a resident in Orange County, the average STAR savings would increase from $798 to as much as $1,436. Enhanced STAR benefits for seniors would rise from $1,482 to $1,927.

In addition, the governor proposes to create a new foundation aid program that links school funding to the cost of a successful education. The Assembly has long advocated for a comprehensive statewide reform proposal through a fair formula that makes school funding transparent and predictable. The governor’s new formula would base funding on student enrollment, student need, regional cost and district wealth. Under the governor’s formula, schools in Sullivan County will receive over $10 million more than last year, an increase of 12%. Middletown schools will receive nearly $7 million more than last year, a 15% increase.

Investing in education while demanding accountability will ensure our students get the best education at the best value. The governor’s plan includes agreements between the state and school officials that will help ensure that principals and superintendents are doing all they can to improve the standards and success of our schools.

It’s a formula that makes sense – resources plus reform equals results. As we begin budget conferences, I look forward to working with Governor Spitzer to craft an on-time budget that’s good for working families in Orange and Sullivan counties.