WIN FOR WATERTOWN RESIDENTS AS CITY PASSES BUDGET UNDER THE TAX CAP

Statement from Reclaim New York Initiative Central and Northern Regional Director on the passage of the City of Watertown budget for 2018-2019:

“Watertown residents should be giving themselves a pat on the back after the city council voted unanimously to pass a responsible budget under the tax cap without relying on smoke and mirrors to get the job done.

“The city manager’s original budget proposal would have slammed taxpayers with a 9.5 percent tax hike and a five percent increase in spending. Watertown residents rightfully criticized the plan at public hearings, opposing a budget that would only serve to drive out more families and businesses.

“Thanks to their efforts, the city council voted against overriding the tax cap. Lawmakers took citizens’ concerns seriously and were able to make the tough decisions necessary to scale the budget down to a 1.49 percent tax increase.

“For the past six straight years, the city has relied on schemes like overestimating sales tax revenue to close budget gaps or artificially stay under the tax cap. Reclaim New York Initiative applauds the council for avoiding gimmicks in this year’s budget and presenting accurate figures.

“Watertown’s sensible budget puts the city on the right path towards addressing its long-term fiscal problems.”