By Mark Scott
Albany, NY – State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli says sales tax revenues continue to decline across New York. He released a report Monday that says revenues for the first seven months of this year are down nearly nine percent. The decline in Erie County is five percent.
DiNapoli says local governments are entering a critical period.
"Back-to-school shopping makes September a very important month for sales tax revenues," DiNapoli said. "Local governments need to take a hard look at the September data. Just like the state, if local governments are not on track to meet their budgeted revenues for the year, they need to make adjustments in their spending now without placing a greater burden on local taxpayers."
DiNapoli says just four counties in New York are reporting higher sales tax revenues this year.