The Chautauqua County Legislature has delayed action on a request to raise the local sales tax to 8-and-a-quarter percent. That's because state Senator Cathy Young is part of a movement in Albany that would eliminate the need for state legislature approval to increase the tax to 8-percent. The effort has the backing of County Executive Greg Edwards. He says he's taking Young's word that the proposal is gaining momentum.
Edwards-Supports Young's efforts
In 2005, the county was allowed to raise the Sales Tax rate to 8.25-percent to offset increases in Medicaid spending, but, it also came with a stipulation that it be decreased in following years. Edwards says if Young is not successful, there is only one other alternative.
Edwards-Only alternative is property tax hike
Edwards says it's only fair because the state has not provided significant Mandate Relief with the tax cap. He also says that if legislation giving county's local control in increasing the sales tax to 8-percent is not forthcoming, he will re-introduce the measure requesting the increase to 8.25-percent.
The Chautauqua County Legislature has delayed action on a request to raise the local sales tax to 8-and-a-quarter percent. That's because state Senator Cathy Young is part of a movement in Albany that would eliminate the need for state legislature approval to increase the tax to 8-percent. The effort has the backing of County Executive Greg Edwards. He says he's taking Young's word that the proposal is gaining momentum.
