Wendel Proposes 85-Cent Tax Rate Reduction in Tentative 2027 County Budget

Chautauqua County's property tax rate could be the lowest it's been since its current form of government began five decades ago. That will happen if the County Legislature keeps that part of County Executive P.J. Wendel's 2027 budget proposal in place. During the legislature's monthly meeting in Mayville on Wednesday, Wendel outlined a spending plan that totals $330 million. It reduces the county's property tax rate by 85 cents per thousand...

P.J. Wendel: $5.32 tax rate, flat tax levy

This is the first time in a while that a "flat" tax levy -- or the amount to be raised by taxes -- has been proposed. It's something most Democrats and some Republicans have called for in the wake of rising costs nationwide...

P.J. Wendel: affordability is the top priority

However, Wendel says there are still "scary parts" to the budget, including the fact that anticipated state mandated costs are rising to $113 million. He says that includes the county having to take on 75% of the administrative costs for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). However, he says being fiscally responsible the past several years is helping the county weather that storm...

P.J. Wendel: we're in a strong enough position

The legislature's Audit and Control Committee will hold its budget meetings during the week of October 5th.

P.J. Wendel's full budget presentation can be viewed below.