Today we entered into a historic compromise with our towns and villages and paved the way for the largest property tax cut in Putnam County’s history. Our partners at the state level listened to the supervisors and mayors, and town and village board members, in drafting their enabling legislation. With the passage of today’s resolution by the county legislature, the final legislative product is one step closer to completion and with it a first-of-its-kind sales-tax-sharing arrangement to deliver tax relief where it matters. 

While I understand this compromise may not have been everyone’s first choice, it was the best choice before us. The alternative was allowing the county’s sales tax rate to drop, immediately creating a revenue shortfall of tens of millions of dollars, forcing the county to borrow, raise property taxes or both. Needless to say, Putnam County’s credit rating and long-term financial outlook would have suffered as a result.

Fortunately, these challenges have been averted thanks to the passage of last night’s resolution. I extend my sincere gratitude to Legislative Chair Amy Sayegh, and all those who supported this measure in the end. 

I intend to sign the home-rule resolution immediately so that the county can send it to our state delegation for final consideration by the respective chambers of the state legislature. 

This is an occasion to show our thanks and gratitude to those who stepped up to assist in achieving this historic accomplishment. It also shows that we can accomplish great things when we put the people of this county first and work together to improve the quality of life for all who call Putnam County home.