November 26, 2024
Steuben County Adopts 2025 Budget: Focus on Fiscal Responsibility and Strategic Investments
Bath, NY – November 25, 2024 – Steuben County has officially adopted its 2025 budget, emphasizing fiscal responsibility, competitive wages, and strategic investments in infrastructure and public safety.
Key Budget Highlights:
Property Tax Levy & Rate: The budget includes a 1.76% increase in the tax levy, half of the allowable increase under New York State’s tax cap. Despite this, the average tax rate per thousand will decrease by 4.71%, marking the 12th consecutive year of reduced tax rates. Over the last decade, the county has reduced the full value tax rate by 27.53%.
Expense Drivers: Major expenses include wage increases and rising Medicaid and Social Services costs. Despite these pressures, the county will continue to support local programs while fulfilling state mandates.
Investments in Public Safety & Infrastructure: The budget allocates funding for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and $9.55 million for road construction projects to improve local infrastructure.
Personnel & Competitive Salaries: To address staffing challenges, the county is prioritizing market-based salary adjustments to attract and retain personnel, especially in critical service areas.
Total Budget: $259,696,215
