CARMEL, NY – Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne delivered his 2026 State of the County Address on Monday evening, highlighting historic tax relief, responsible fiscal management, and innovative programs designed to make county government more affordable, accountable, and accessible for residents. Speaking from the indoor turf field at Palumbo Soccer Academy in Putnam Valley, before members of the County Legislature, municipal leaders, county employees, and community members, Byrne emphasized the administration’s continued focus on easing the financial burden on taxpayers while investing in smarter services and long-term infrastructure.

 “Our mission has been clear from day one: build a county government that is more affordable, accountable, and accessible for every resident,” Byrne said. “Year after year we have backed up that commitment with action by cutting taxes, reducing debt, delivering innovative programs, and making sure Putnam County remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”

 Byrne highlighted the largest property tax levy reduction in county history, a $1 million cut adopted in the most recent county budget. The reduction brings Putnam County’s tax rate to $2.39, the lowest level in nearly twenty years.

 Since taking office, Byrne noted that the county has delivered more than $10 million in tax relief through property tax reductions and targeted sales tax exemptions, including the continuation of the county’s exemption on clothing and footwear purchases under $110.

 Another major financial milestone highlighted in the address was the historic sales-tax revenue-sharing agreement reached between Putnam County and its towns and villages. Without the agreement, the county’s sales tax rate would have automatically been reduced, resulting in a loss of more than $21 million in annual revenue. Instead, the new agreement preserved the county’s sales-tax rate while creating a new $2.3 million revenue-sharing stream for local municipalities.

 “This was a true partnership,” Byrne said. “County government, local municipalities, and our partners in Albany came together to protect taxpayers while strengthening local communities.”

 The County Executive also highlighted the recent expansion of the senior property-tax exemption, which now allows eligible seniors to exempt up to 65 percent of their home’s assessed value, helping older residents remain in their homes and communities.

 Alongside fiscal achievements, Byrne emphasized the importance of investing in programs that improve services and quality of life while controlling long-term costs. One example is Putnam On-Demand, the county’s innovative micro-transit system that allows residents to book affordable door-to-door transportation using a mobile app or phone call. Since launching last year, ridership has grown steadily as residents use the service to connect to jobs, medical appointments, shopping centers, Metro-North stations, and county services.

 Byrne announced that the County is now studying ways to expand the successful service to additional towns.

 “The results have exceeded our expectations,” Byrne said. “Putnam On-Demand is providing more rides, at a lower cost per trip, and giving residents greater access to opportunity. Our next goal is to bring this service to other communities across Putnam County.”

 The address also highlighted innovative programs such as the Putnam County Early Learning Center, which opened this school year to provide preschool and specialized services for children with developmental disabilities closer to home, and the launch of the countywide door-to-door healthcare services through the Community Paramedicine program, the first of its kind in New York State.

 “These programs represent a smarter approach to government,” Byrne said. “They improve services for residents, reduce long-term costs for taxpayers, and demonstrate what local government can accomplish when we focus on solutions.”

 Byrne concluded his remarks by noting that Putnam County continues to invest in infrastructure, public safety, and community programs while preparing to host events connected to the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence.

 “The state of Putnam County is strong,” Byrne said. “Strong in our finances, strong in our public safety, and strong in the sense of community that makes this county such a special place to call home.”

 The full State of the County Address is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTSq_3jWrAA&t=7s