One local state senator says the end of session agreement between leaders in Albany includes some major accomplishments for Western New York.
Democratic Senator Tim Kennedy of Buffalo says lawmakers initially felt like much of the session focused on New York City rent laws, but says now the deal also includes an extension of the property tax cap and a $1.3-billion property tax rebate program that benefits upstate New York.
"In Western New York and in other areas of upstate, property taxes have really been detrimental for people in our communities for decades. We enacted the first ever property tax cap four years ago and that was actually potentially on the chopping block. We said we're not going to allow things to move forward just for New York City. There has to be an upstate flavor to this. Not only did we get an upstate flavor, but we got a major victory for homeowners in Western New York by getting $1.3-billion in tax relief."
The deal does not include mayoral control of Buffalo Schools. Kennedy was a major proponent of the idea and says he will keep working to ensure Buffalo students get a good education.
The Senate and Assembly must still approve the deal.
