Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Democrats in the state Assembly have reached an agreement on legislation that would cap annual property-tax increases at 2 percent. The Assembly plan, which Cuomo endorsed on an Albany radio program Tuesday morning, exempts pension payments that grow more than 2 percent a year. Another exemption allows school districts and local governments to exceed the 2 percent cap in the event of significant population growth. In addition, the deal maintains existing school-budget timelines and requires a 60-percent vote by district voters in order to override or exceed the 2 percent cap.
The state Senate, controlled by Republicans, had approved legislation that provided no exemptions to Cuomo’s proposed 2 percent cap. A spokesman for the senate leadership said the Assembly’s proposal would receive consideration.
What do you think about the compromise? Share your view in the poll below.
2 Comments
Excessive compensation and totally extrordionary benefits are completely inconsistant with the compensation available in the private sector and will not be dealt with effectively by the proposed legislation – the legislation needs to be far more restrictive and address unfunded manadates as well.
Tax cap not the answer. Why are teachers & administrators exempt from a salary cut? Contrary to Mr. Gerson’s statement, schools may be trying but not trying enough to reduce expenses. If 73% of school budget is related to salaries, benefits, pensions, why is no one focusing on the possibilities here? For example, all teachers/administrators etc. making more than $150,000 per year should take a 10% decrease in salary; administrative positions should be reduced 30% (why do we need so many vice-principal positions?).
We could possibly save some teacher positions & reduce the financial burden on the taxpayers. What a novel idea!!!