Erie County lawmakers
approve budget

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Erie County lawmakers have approved their version of the 2009 County Budget which eliminates a proposed property tax hike.

Erie County lawmakers who passed the amended 2009 budget 11 to 4 said they were thinking of taxpayers, and quality of life.

Kathy Konst (D-Budget Committee Chair) said, "...hold the line on property taxes. We did not want to introduce more of a burden on taxpayers of this community."

Maria Whyte (D-Majority Leader) said, "Recognizing the significant contribution that cultural funding makes to our economic growth as a region."

The Republican Minority wanted deeper cuts, and Democrat Tom Loughran, who voted "no" with them, said there won't be enough revenue coming in to balance the budget.

Thomas Loughran (D-Amherst) said, "But I cannot support this budget. It is not a balanced budget. There was not enough emphasis put on our revenue projections."

The county comptroller also believes the budget isn't balanced.

Erie County Comptroller Mark Poloncarz said, "My obligation is to insure that our county functions are paid on a timely basis. I can't guarantee that under our current situation."

Lawmakers passed the budget with enough votes to override vetoes by the county executive, who says he will veto many of the amendments because he says they are "gimmicks" and even illegal in certain cases.

Erie County Executive Chris Collins said, "I call on the legislature to recognize its improper actions and to let my vetoes stand."

The county executive has until next Monday to veto any of the legislature's additions.

Lawmakers then meet to vote on overriding the vetoes.

And finally, the control board votes to accept or reject the budget.