Curran Vetoes Legislature’s Millions in Proposed Spending Increases and Improperly Changed Sales Tax Estimate
Legislature proposed spending increases and changed sales tax estimate without public notice
MINEOLA, NY- Nassau County Executive Laura Curran today announced her Administration has vetoed all the Nassau County Legislature’s proposed spending increases to the County’s Executive’s 2019 budget and its improper sales tax revenue estimate.
Last week, the Legislature failed to publicly disclose its proposed spending increases therefore making them ineligible for a same-day emergency budget vote. The Legislature also proposed a change to the sales tax estimate, which it is not permitted to do.
“The Legislature went against the County charter when it passed a budget without full public disclosure,” said Curran. “The Legislature also had no authority to raise the sales tax revenue estimate. That is the opposite of transparent responsible government.”
On Monday, October 29, 2018, the Nassau County Legislature approved an amended 2019 budget after receiving the County Executive’s proposed budget on September 17, 2018. However, the Legislature adopted the amended budget without properly disclosing to the public, five days in advance, its itemized spending increases. The Legislature attempted to utilize a same-day “emergency” budget vote.
“Our residents are entitled to advance information and full disclosure of how tax dollars are spent. The Legislature’s undisclosed, last-minute actions are completely unacceptable.”
The County Executive sought legal action to stay the Legislature’s approvals of the 2019 budget and tax levy. The County is also seeking an order directing the Legislature to adopt a legally valid 2019 budget with full public disclosure. Historically, the County Charter was written to ensure full transparency before Election Day.
“We inherited a NIFA control period and must carefully securitize all spending,” said Curran. “We will continue to fight for full transparency and fiscal responsibility throughout the budget process.”