By Eileen Buckley
Buffalo, NY – Joel Giambra delivered his final proposed budget as Erie County Executive Monday. He appeared at County Hall inside the Legislature chambers. But only a few lawmakers were interested in attending.
County Executive Giambra delivered his 8th spending plan to the legislature since taking office in 2000. Giambra claims there is no bad news in his budget. A much different mood then a few years ago, when he delivered his controversial red and green budgets.
Giambra says compared to about ten other large urban areas in the state, the County is in the best financial condition. But only a handful of lawmakers showed up at County Hall Monday to hear his plan. However, Giambra didn't seem upset by the lack of participation.
The $1.45 billion spending plan would hold the line on property taxes. But it does call to add more hiring. Giambra wants to create tenpositions in the probation department and 52 new jobs in Social Services. The budget plan also dedicates the County bed tax to the Buffalo Niagara Convention and Visitors Bureau. Giambra says financial restraints allow to restore spending to the CVB.
The budget must be approved by legislature and control board.
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