Platform for Success
Responsible Leadership, Tax Stability, and a Stronger Scotia
I understand that property taxes matter to every resident, including myself. Rising insurance costs, retirement obligations, inflation, state mandates, and the expense of maintaining essential services all place increasing pressure on municipal budgets.
Residents deserve a government that takes these challenges seriously and continually seeks ways to manage costs responsibly. At the same time, cutting a single budget line without considering the broader impact can create unintended consequences and ultimately lead to higher costs elsewhere.
That is why I believe in pursuing tax stability through thoughtful planning, responsible spending, and sustainable growth. We must continually review expenditures, evaluate the value and effectiveness of public services, pursue state and federal funding opportunities, encourage economic development, and identify ways to operate more efficiently.
We should also continue exploring opportunities to partner with neighboring municipalities when doing so makes financial sense. I have invited our Town officials to join me in holding joint Village/Town quarterly board meetings to discuss opportunities for cooperation and collaboration that benefit both communities.
Continuing to Secure Grant Funding
Over the past four years, we have secured more than $8 million in grant funding, an unprecedented achievement that has allowed us to advance important projects while limiting the burden on local taxpayers. This funding includes a transformational $4.5 million NY Forward grant, a $1 million grant for handicapped accessibility at the new Village Hall, a $500,000 Community Development grant from Congressman Tonko, a $300,000 Brownfield Opportunity Area (BOA) development grant, and numerous additional grants supporting our departments and community initiatives.
These accomplishments demonstrate the value of strong relationships, persistent advocacy, and sound financial planning. We must continue pursuing every available funding opportunity to help Scotia move forward without placing unnecessary financial pressure on our residents.
Moving Critical Infrastructure Projects Forward
We have also moved forward the long-delayed Sunnyside Bridge project, involving a CSX Railroad bridge that CSX had declined to replace or repair. This bridge is a critical thoroughfare for commuters and an important component of public safety for our residents.
The complexity of this project, including the challenges of working with CSX and state and federal agencies, created bottlenecks for years. Despite these obstacles, we have made meaningful progress on this multimillion-dollar project. The local share is only 5%, and we continue to pursue grant funding to help offset even that cost.
This is an example of what persistent leadership, collaboration, and strategic funding can accomplish for our community.
Building Partnerships and Maintaining Exceptional Services
I have built strong relationships with our county, state, and federal representatives, all of whom have helped Scotia continue to grow and move important initiatives forward. We have also improved relationships with neighboring municipalities and surrounding public safety departments, creating opportunities for greater cooperation and more effective service delivery.
I strongly believe in the value of our Village services and the professionalism of our employees. Our police, fire, public works, parks, and administrative teams provide essential services that contribute to the quality of life we enjoy in Scotia. We must continue supporting these dedicated professionals while ensuring that resources are managed wisely and services remain effective and sustainable.
Finding Solutions, Not Simply Pursuing Dissolution
I believe in finding solutions that protect taxpayers, preserve essential services, and strengthen our community. We should examine every reasonable opportunity to improve efficiency, collaborate with neighboring municipalities, and reduce costs without sacrificing the services residents depend on.
Dissolution should not be treated as the only answer to the challenges facing local government. We owe it to our residents to thoroughly explore practical alternatives, make informed decisions, and pursue solutions that serve Scotia's long-term interests.
I respectfully ask for your support as we continue working toward a financially responsible, well-managed, and thriving Village. Together, we can protect the services that make Scotia special, plan responsibly for the future, and ensure that our Village remains the place we are all proud to call home.
Responsible spending. Strong services. A stronger Scotia.