Latest News
Summaries of local government news from verified sources across New York State.
State Legislature Begins Budget Voting Two Weeks After Agreement
Governor Kathy Hochul announced a 'general agreement' on the New York State budget on May 7th, marking one of the latest such announcements in recent history. As of now, two weeks later, lawmakers have only printed and begun voting on one of the nine remaining budget bills, specifically the Education, Labor and Family Assistance (ELFA) bill. The Assembly passed this bill by a vote of 110-34 along party lines, providing final details on education and labor issues that were part of ongoing negotiations. Lawmakers are expected to proceed with voting on the Public Protection and General Government bill next.
Capital Region Voters Approve School Budgets for 2026-27
CBS6 is reporting on the results of school budget votes in the Capital Region for the 2026–2027 academic year. In Albany County, the Albany City School District's $371.5 million budget was approved with a significant majority, as were propositions to expand elementary transportation and fund a major facilities project. The Guilderland Central School District also passed its proposed budget of $133.9 million, which includes a 3.42% tax levy increase. In Menands Union Free School District, voters approved a proposition to replenish the reserve fund for emergency repairs and supported the Menands Public Library's proposed budget. Additionally, incumbent Patrick Semexant was re-elected to the Board of Education without opposition.
Governor Hochul Announces $18 Million in Projects for North Country Towns
Governor Kathy Hochul announced awards totaling $18 million for 18 transformational projects across three communities in the North Country as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) and NY Forward. The Village of Malone, a Round 8 DRI winner, received $10 million to fund ten projects aimed at revitalizing its downtown area. Meanwhile, the Villages of Gouverneur and Keeseville each secured $4.5 million through the NY Forward program for three and five projects respectively. These initiatives are designed to enhance economic development, create more livable communities, and foster long-term growth in these regions.
Alexandria City Council Approves FY2027 Budget
The Alexandria City Council unanimously adopted a $979.1 million Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 General Fund Operating Budget, marking a 2.4% increase from the previous year's budget. The approved budget prioritizes quality education, employee attraction and retention, affordable housing, reducing community disparities, and bolstering economic growth while adhering to established fiscal policies. The full FY 2027 budget document will be available online by July 1st.
New York State Budget Process Advances After Deadline
The New York State budget process is progressing two months after the April 1 deadline. Key components of the budget include a controversial immigrant protection package limiting ICE cooperation, changes to Foundation Aid formula for high-need areas, and a five-year delay in the zero-emissions school bus mandate. Additionally, the state has agreed to pension changes affecting over 830,000 public employees, costing approximately $557 million annually and lowering the teacher retirement age to 58.
Troy City School District Approves Budget for 2026-2027
Residents of the Troy City School District overwhelmingly approved a $146.3 million budget for the 2026-2027 school year, with 89.87% voting in favor. The budget maintains all student programs and staffing while adding additional supports based on individual needs. It includes a 0% tax levy increase for the fifth consecutive year. Additionally, voters approved a proposition to create a new capital reserve fund that will allow the district to complete up to $300 million in building updates over ten years without increasing taxes due to high state aid. Three school board members—Thomas Mayo, Matthew Flowers Jr., and Diana Heckman—were re-elected for three-year terms.
Governor Hochul Announces $3 Billion Crime Reduction Initiative and Other Policy Highlights
In her recent State of the State address, Governor Kathy Hochul outlined significant policy initiatives aimed at enhancing safety and affordability for New Yorkers. The governor highlighted a $3 billion investment to combat crime across the state through various measures such as installing license plate readers and increasing subway patrols. Additionally, she emphasized her budget's commitment to universal child care without raising taxes on residents. Other notable actions include enacting a statewide ban on smartphone use during school hours in K-12 institutions starting September 2025 and distributing inflation refund checks up to $400 to over eight million households.
Governor Hochul's Budget Aims to Reduce Crime and Enhance Child Care
In her FY 2027 Executive Budget, Governor Kathy Hochul has outlined significant investments aimed at reducing crime across New York State. The budget includes $3 billion for initiatives such as license plate readers and enhanced subway patrols, designed to improve public safety during the summer and beyond. Additionally, the governor's budget supports universal child care without increasing taxes on New Yorkers. Other notable actions include sending inflation refund checks up to $400 to 8.2 million households in fall 2025 and enacting a statewide ban on smartphone use by students from bell-to-bell during school hours starting September 2025.
Comptroller's Office Comments on New York City’s Preliminary Budget for FY2027
The Comptroller's office has released comments on the Mamdani administration's preliminary budget for fiscal year 2027, noting a significant increase in transparency and accuracy compared to previous budgets. The report highlights an overall net spending estimate increase of $4.14 billion in FY 2026 (3.5 percent), $5.39 billion in FY 2027 (4.4 percent), and an average of $8.46 billion annually from FY 2028 to FY 2030, reflecting previously underbudgeted costs such as shelter, public assistance, rental aid programs, and special education cases. The budget also relies on optimistic projections for higher city tax revenues and proposed property tax increases to address structural imbalances between expenditures and revenues.
Albany City School District Budget Vote Includes Transportation Expansion
Voters in the Albany City School District are set to decide on a $371.5 million budget that includes an expansion of transportation services for students. The proposed budget represents an 8.5% increase from last year and funds a nearly $100 million capital project aimed at enhancing school safety, security, and infrastructure. Proposition 2 would reduce the distance requirement for elementary school busing from 1.5 miles to one mile, making approximately 500 more students eligible for transportation services. Superintendent Joseph Hochreiter emphasized that expanded transportation access could help remove barriers for students getting to school, potentially improving attendance rates and academic achievement. If approved, the changes would take effect at the start of the 2026-2027 school year.
Schenectady Community Approves School Budget and Facility Proposals
The Schenectady community overwhelmingly supported the school budget vote and three facility propositions on May 20, 2026. The 2026-2027 school budget passed with 526 votes in favor and 92 against. Proposition #1 for operations and maintenance at Catalyn Street received 488 'yes' votes and 127 'no'. Proposition #2 for the Adult & Continuing Education Center on Nott Terrace was approved by 473 voters, with 136 voting against it. Lastly, Proposition #3 for the City As Our Campus / ECHS / P-TECH lease at State Street passed with 468 votes in favor and 147 opposed. Additionally, Bernice Rivera was re-elected to the Board of Education, while Daniel Flynn and Rennie Glasgow were elected for their first terms.
Schenectady County School Budget and Board Election Results Live Updates
The Times Union is providing live updates on school budget votes, ballot measures, and contested school board races in Schenectady County. Districts exceeding their tax cap require a supermajority vote for approval; other propositions need only a simple majority. The app offers detailed information on each district's voting status and provides links to specific districts including Duanesburg CSD, Mohonasen CSD, Niskayuna CSD, Schalmont CSD, Schenectady City SD, and Scotia-Glenville CSD. Results are unofficial until certified by the respective school boards.
Mayor Mamdani and Governor Hochul Extend 3-K and Pre-K Offers for New York City Families
Mayor Mamdani and Governor Hochul have announced the extension of nearly 100,000 offers for 3-K and pre-kindergarten programs in New York City. The initiative aims to reduce the average travel distance for families accessing these early education services by six blocks on average. This expansion is part of ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility and affordability of early childhood education for city residents.
Mamdani Balances NYC Budget Without Property Tax Hike
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a balanced budget that avoids raising property taxes. The $12 billion deficit inherited by Mamdani was reduced to $5.4 billion through efforts including securing $4 billion in aid from Albany and implementing $1.77 billion in savings measures such as operational efficiencies and not filling vacant positions. Mamdani emphasized his commitment to taxing the wealthy and supporting working New Yorkers, though questions remain about potential impacts on businesses and the tax base.
Governor Hochul Announces $15 Million for Building Electrification Innovations
Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the availability of $15 million through NYSERDA's Innovation for Affordable Building Electrification program to advance innovative building solutions in New York State. The initiative aims to support technologies that improve energy efficiency, electrification, and load management in existing buildings, enhancing performance while reducing costs. Priority will be given to solutions benefiting low- to moderate-income or disadvantaged communities as identified by the Climate Justice Working Group.
Saratoga Springs Advances Paid Parking Plan for Racing Season
The Saratoga Springs City Council unanimously advanced a seasonal paid parking plan ahead of the busy racing season. The program will be in effect from May 22 through Labor Day, requiring non-residents to pay for parking in city garages and lots during peak hours. While some residents support charging visitors for parking, others argue that street parking should remain free or that more parking capacity is needed. Public Works Commissioner BK Keramati noted the initiative aims to raise funds and assist residents in finding parking spaces in high-traffic areas.
New York School Districts Face Budget Challenges Amid State Funding Uncertainty
Voters across New York State considered local school district budgets on Tuesday, with many districts facing difficulties due to the delayed state budget. The lack of a finalized state budget forced schools to estimate their funding and propose budgets accordingly. Several northern New York districts such as Massena, Moriah, Ticonderoga, and Saranac Lake Central School Districts passed their budgets, while others like Ausable Valley Central School District faced defeat by nearly 150 votes due to a proposed 12 percent tax increase requiring a supermajority. Despite the challenges, Beekmantown School District's budget was approved with a vote of 419 to 163 and also received approval for purchasing three new school buses.
Saratoga County Residents Approve School Budgets and Board Candidates
Residents of Saratoga Springs voted to approve the $29.9 million school budget for the 2026-2027 academic year, with a tax levy increase of 2.6%, aligning with New York State's tax cap and remaining below the district’s allowable limit. The ballot also included a bus bond proposition that was approved by voters. Additionally, three candidates were elected to the Board of Education: Beth Braxton, Lauren Allen, and Anita Stabrowski. In Ballston Spa, residents approved a $113.7 million budget with a 3.9% tax levy increase, alongside propositions for vehicle replacement and electric bus purchase. Three new board members—Matthew Dreher, Katie Whittemore, and Julia Routbort Baskin—were also elected. Shenendehowa Central School District saw its $234.5 million budget approved by voters.
Comptroller's Office Comments on New York City's Preliminary Budget for FY2027
The Comptroller's Office has released comments on the Mamdani administration’s preliminary budget for fiscal year 2027, noting a significant increase in transparency and accuracy compared to previous budgets. The budget includes an overall net spending estimate increase of $4.14 billion in FY 2026 (3.5 percent) and $5.39 billion in FY 2027 (4.4 percent). Major increases are attributed to housing and economic development projects, with a new initiative for city-run grocery stores receiving $70 million. The budget also highlights the City's structural imbalance between operating expenditures and revenues, relying on optimistic revenue projections and property tax increases to close projected gaps.
Mayor Mamdani Balances NYC Budget Without Property Tax Hike
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has unveiled a balanced budget that does not include property tax hikes. The mayor inherited an $12 billion budget gap and managed to reduce it to $5.4 billion through aggressive steps, including seeking aid from Albany and implementing efficiencies. With additional funding of $4 billion from the state and $1.77 billion in savings, Mamdani has closed the remaining gap without tapping into the city's rainy day fund. The budget also includes $500 million for NYCHA apartment renovations and $256 million to restore vacant units.
New York State Legislature Approves Budget Extender and Immigrant Protection Measures
The New York State Legislature has passed a 13th budget extender to fund essential services until Wednesday. This comes after the state missed its April 1 deadline for passing a full budget, with lawmakers still working on finalizing details. The latest round of votes includes an immigrant protection package aimed at limiting ICE cooperation and restricting mask use by ICE agents within the state. Meanwhile, school districts are facing challenges in setting their budgets without finalized state funding allocations, though some like Greece Central School District have prepared for such delays.
New York State Senate Delays Budget Vote Amid Ongoing Legislative Challenges
The New York State Senate has passed a 13th budget extender, pushing the deadline for completing the state's $3.4 billion spending plan to Thursday. Deputy Senate Majority Leader Mike Gianaris indicated that lawmakers are unlikely to finish voting on budget bills before Memorial Day weekend. Meanwhile, Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, the Senate Majority Leader, expressed optimism about reaching a final budget deal within the week despite delays. Additionally, the Senate is advancing consumer protection legislation aimed at prohibiting surveillance pricing and junk fees, as well as making subscription cancellations easier.
City Council Revives COPA for Nonprofit Building Deals
City Council member Sandy Nurse has reintroduced the Community Opportunity to Purchase Act (COPA) with revisions aimed at strengthening and targeting its provisions. The bill would give city-approved nonprofits and joint ventures between nonprofits and for-profit developers priority in purchasing distressed multifamily buildings or those facing expiring affordability restrictions. Eligibility criteria have been narrowed, such as requiring buildings to average three or more hazardous violations per unit annually (up from one previously) or inclusion in the Alternative Enforcement Program. The bill also covers smaller rent-regulated assets with fewer than 100 units facing expiring affordability restrictions within two years but exempts 421a properties.
Catskill and Athens Receive $14.2 Million for Downtown Revitalization
New York State has awarded Catskill and Athens a total of $14.2 million through the state’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs, with $9.7 million allocated to Catskill and $4.5 million to Athens. The funds will support various projects including redevelopment, housing initiatives, business growth, waterfront improvements, and public space upgrades. This investment reflects a broader trend of economic and cultural revitalization in Greene County, which has seen increased attention from residents, artists, restaurateurs, and entrepreneurs.
Saratoga Springs City Council Debates UDO Amendments and Urban Development
At the Saratoga Springs City Council meeting on May 19, 2026, significant debate surrounded proposed amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). Residents expressed concern that the changes would weaken protections for historic homes and alter the city’s character. The Mayor argued that current rules create financial hardships for middle-class families and cited a specific dispute over slate roofs as an example. Another contentious topic was urban development, with a public hearing held to address alleged errors in local law establishing the JW Hemingway Planned Unit Development (PUD).
Mamdani's Budget Proposal Aims to Eliminate $12B Deficit
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani proposed a budget for fiscal year 2027 that aims to eliminate a $12 billion deficit inherited from former Mayor Eric Adams. The proposal requires a $4 billion contribution from New York state, implementation of a tax on certain secondary homes, and elimination of a tax credit primarily benefiting wealthy residents. Delays in planned expenditures are also proposed, which could lead to future deficits. As of the article's publication date, the budget has not been approved by the City Council.
City of Kingston Announces Upcoming Events and Services
The City of Kingston's official website provides updates on various city services and upcoming events. It highlights the upcoming parking garage closures and invites residents to attend an annual open house hosted by Public Works on May 23rd. The site also announces the opening of nominations for Livable City Design Awards, celebrating well-designed places in the community. Additionally, the city celebrates its long-term naming rights partnership with INVISTA, which has been ongoing for 18 years. Other important information includes reminders about powerline safety and links to garbage collection schedules, parking permits, property taxes, and public engagement opportunities.
Troy City School District Proposes Flat Budget for 2026-2027
The Troy City School District has proposed a budget of $146,348,609 for the 2026-2027 school year with no tax levy increase. The district aims to maintain current staffing levels and programs while adding targeted support based on student needs. This marks the fifth consecutive year without a tax increase and the fourteenth year within or below the allowable tax cap. Residents will vote on the budget and elect three Board of Education members on May 19, 2026, from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Governor Hochul Announces $268 Billion Budget Deal Amid Confusion
New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced a $268 billion budget deal on Thursday. The proposed budget includes funding for universal childcare and increased police presence in subways, as well as a new tax aimed at luxury second homes of wealthy non-residents in New York City. However, the State Assembly Speaker disputed that an agreement had been reached, leading to confusion about the status of the budget negotiations.
New York State Government Structure and Powers
The New York State government operates under a tripartite framework as defined by the New York State Constitution. This structure divides governmental authority among three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. The current governing version of the constitution was ratified in 1938 and has been amended since then. Each branch is responsible for executing specific state functions, with detailed institutional information available to professionals, researchers, and service seekers navigating these operations. Federal agencies and tribal nations within New York's borders are not covered by this reference.
Agenda Center for Albany Boards and Commissions
The Agenda Center on the City of Albany's CivicEngage platform provides access to agendas and minutes for various city boards and commissions. Users can search by time period or specific date range, and documents may require Adobe Reader for viewing. Categories include the Albany Community Development Agency Board, Board of Estimate & Apportionment, Board of Zoning Appeals, Common Council Ad-Hoc Committees, Contract & Supply, Council Operations and Ethics Committee, Finance, Assessment and Taxation Committee, General Services, Health and Environment Committee, Human Resources and Human Rights Committee, Law, Buildings and Code Enforcement Committee, Municipal Civil Service Commission, Planning Board, Public Safety Committee, Sustainability Commission, and more. Specific agendas and minutes are available for download.
NYC Council Passes Legislation to Combat Hajj and Umrah Scams
The New York City Council has passed legislation aimed at protecting residents from scams related to the annual Hajj pilgrimage and the voluntary Umrah visit to Mecca. The bill seeks to provide New Yorkers with necessary information and resources to avoid fraudulent activities associated with these religious journeys, which are significant for millions of Muslims worldwide. Additionally, the council also approved a measure requiring the installation of at least 5,000 bike parking stations over five years, enhancing infrastructure for cyclists in the city.
Mamdani's Budget Aims to Close NYC Deficit Without Tax Hikes or Cuts
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani presented a $124.7 billion budget aimed at closing a projected $12 billion deficit over two years without raising property taxes, cutting social services, or using the city's rainy day reserves. The plan relies heavily on state aid from Governor Kathy Hochul and delayed pension payments to achieve this goal. Critics argue that delaying pension payments merely shifts financial burdens onto future taxpayers. Mamdani’s budget includes additional savings through reduced overtime costs. However, the proposal must still be reviewed by the City Council before final approval by June 30.
New York State Budget Stalemate Continues Despite School District Votes
The New York state government is facing a prolonged budget stalemate with no final agreement reached two weeks after the deadline. Both Governor Kathy Hochul and lawmakers held separate press conferences to discuss unresolved environmental issues contributing to the delay. Meanwhile, school districts across the state are holding budget votes despite the lack of a finalized state budget, which has caused additional challenges for some districts in planning their budgets. The Greece Central School District is one example that had prepared for such a scenario. Additionally, lawmakers passed a 13th budget extender to ensure essential funding continues until May 18, though there are doubts about completing the budget process before Memorial Day weekend.
Speaker Menin Proposes Housing Reforms to Unlock Small Lot Development
New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin has proposed reforms to the city's Construction Codes aimed at unlocking housing development on small lots across New York City. The initiative is part of a broader land use and housing agenda by the council, intended to increase the number of units available for residents. Additionally, the article mentions other legislative actions taken by the Council, such as passing legislation to establish an outreach and education program to help New Yorkers avoid scams related to Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
School Budget Votes Across Capital Region
School districts in the Capital Region of New York are holding votes for their budgets and propositions on Tuesday. The Albany City School District is proposing a budget of $371.5 million, an 8.5% increase from last year, with a tax levy increase of 1.22%. Propositions include expanding transportation services by lowering the eligibility limit to one mile and adding 11 buses at a cost of approximately $1.51 million, which would be reimbursed by 80% next year. Another proposition seeks approval for a $98 million facilities project with no additional tax impact. The Bethlehem Central School District is proposing a budget of $119.76 million, a 2.69% increase, and the Guilderland Central School District proposes a $133.90 million budget, a 5% increase.
Capital Region School Districts Vote on Budget Proposals for 2026-27
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, several Capital Region school districts in New York are holding votes to approve their proposed budgets for the upcoming 2026-27 academic year. The state budget, which would determine additional funding levels, remains undecided and is now seven weeks overdue. Districts such as Albany, North Colonie Central Schools, Saratoga Springs City School District, and Schenectady City School District are presenting their budgets to voters without knowing the extent of state support. In Albany, voters will also consider a transportation expansion plan for K-5 students and a $98 million facilities project with no tax impact. Saratoga Springs taxpayers face a 3.85% tax levy increase if the budget is approved, while Schenectady’s proposal includes an eighth consecutive year of zero percent tax levy increase despite a $15 million budget rise.
Troy City School District Voters Approve Budget and Elect Board Members
Residents of the Troy City School District overwhelmingly approved a $146.3 million budget for the 2026-2027 school year, with a vote tally of 639 in favor to 72 against (89.87%). The budget maintains all student programs and staffing while adding additional supports based on individual needs. Additionally, voters approved a proposition to create a new capital reserve fund that will allow the district to undertake significant building updates and renovations over the next decade without increasing taxes. Three individuals—Thomas Mayo, Matthew Flowers Jr., and Diana Heckman—were re-elected to the Board of Education for three-year terms starting July 1, 2026.
Governor Hochul Announces $19M for Homeownership in Schenectady and Other Cities
Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the second round of funding awards totaling over $19 million for her MOVE-IN NY program, aimed at creating affordable housing. This initiative will result in the construction of more than 50 prefabricated starter homes across five counties, including Schenectady. The Capital Region Land Bank received a significant portion of this funding with $6.655 million to build 22 homes in Schenectady. Mayor Gary McCarthy expressed gratitude for the support that will help meet the demand for new single-family homes quickly and affordably.
Troy City School District Approves Budget and Elects Board Members
Residents of the Troy City School District overwhelmingly approved a $146.3 million budget for the 2026-27 school year, with 89.87% voter support. The budget maintains all student programs and staffing while adding additional supports based on student need, marking the fifth consecutive year without a tax levy increase. Additionally, voters approved creating a new capital reserve fund that will allow for up to $300 million in building updates and renovations over ten years with no additional tax impact due to high state aid ratios. Three board members—Thomas Mayo, Matthew Flowers Jr., and Diana Heckman—were re-elected to the Board of Education.
Mayor Mamdani's $124.5 Billion Budget Plan Gets Boost From Governor Hochul
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani presented his executive budget for fiscal year 2027, which totals $124.5 billion. Initially considering raising property taxes to address a significant budget deficit, Mamdani ultimately decided against this measure after receiving assurances of additional state funding from Governor Kathy Hochul. The mayor's decision to avoid increasing property taxes was met with relief among city residents and businesses who had been wary of the potential financial burden.
Mayor Mamdani Balances NYC Budget Without Property Tax Hike
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a balanced budget that avoids raising property taxes. The budget addresses an initial $12 billion gap by securing $4 billion in aid from the state and implementing $1.77 billion in savings through efficiencies and not filling vacant positions, reducing the gap to zero. Key initiatives include $500 million for NYCHA apartment renovations and $256 million to restore vacant units. Mamdani emphasized his commitment to taxing the wealthy and supporting working New Yorkers without burdening them.
Governor Hochul Announces $19 Million for Homeownership in Five New York Counties
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the second round of awards totaling over $19 million for her MOVE-IN NY program. This funding will create more than 50 prefabricated starter homes, known as CrossMods, in Cayuga, Erie, Montgomery, Schenectady, and Suffolk counties. The Capital Region Land Bank received $6.655 million to build 22 homes in Schenectady. Governor Hochul emphasized the program's goal of making homeownership affordable for New Yorkers at all life stages by leveraging prefabricated housing technology.
Troy City School District Proposes Flat Budget for 2026-2027
The Troy City School District has proposed a budget of $146,348,609 for the 2026-2027 school year with no tax levy increase. This marks the fifth consecutive year without an increase in the tax levy and aligns with the district's commitment to maintaining fiscal responsibility while supporting student growth and academic achievement. The budget vote will take place on May 19, 2026, from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., alongside Board of Education elections.
Comptroller's Office Warns of Growing Budget Deficit for New York State
The Office of the New York State Comptroller has issued reports detailing significant fiscal challenges ahead. The analysis of the proposed Executive Budget for State Fiscal Year 2026-27 highlights an increasing trajectory of state spending that outpaces expected revenues, leading to cumulative budget gaps estimated at $27.5 billion through SFY 2030. Additionally, federal reductions in aid are exacerbating fiscal strains on New York's economy and safety net. The report also notes a growing structural deficit with a three-year gap of $34.3 billion as forecasted by the Division of Budget, up from $27.3 billion since January 2025. These financial challenges underscore the need for caution in developing future spending plans.
Mayor Mamdani Announces Closure of City's Budget Deficit
Kingston Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced on Tuesday that the city has closed its budget deficit entirely. The mayor attributed this achievement to a collaborative effort with state lawmakers, who provided nearly $8 billion in resources over two years. This includes delayed pension payments and a tax on second homes. Mamdani highlighted the improved relationship between City Hall and Albany, emphasizing cooperation rather than dysfunction. He also noted that the city's final budget proposal for the coming fiscal year is more than $124 billion.
New York Passes 12th Budget Extender as Deadline Looms
The New York State Legislature passed its twelfth budget extender on May 14, extending funding for state operations through Monday, May 18. This comes more than six weeks after the original April 1 deadline and continues a prolonged negotiation process between lawmakers and Governor Kathy Hochul. Despite ongoing delays, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins expressed optimism that an end to negotiations is near, with hopes of finalizing a budget by the following week. Meanwhile, Governor Hochul defended the state’s budget process amid criticism from legislative leaders who have long been critical of using budget negotiations as leverage for policy changes.
Hochul Announces 79-Acre Expansion of Saratoga Spa State Park
Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the expansion of Saratoga Spa State Park by 79 acres, marking its first expansion in two decades. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) acquired this land to preserve wetlands, forests, and open space for wildlife and future park uses. This acquisition supports New York’s goal to conserve 30% of the state's lands and waters by 2030. OPRHP is currently assessing the area to integrate its natural resources into existing recreational and educational offerings at Saratoga Spa State Park. No hunting will be allowed in the new addition.
Troy City School District Seeks Approval for Flat Tax Budget
The Troy City School District is proposing a $146.3 million budget for the 2026-2027 school year with no tax increase, maintaining current staffing and programs while adding targeted support based on student needs. The district’s proposal includes a new five-year contract with Student Transportation of America (STA) for transportation services. Voters will decide on three items during the May 19 vote: approval of the budget, creation of a $6 million capital reserve fund for future projects, and other unspecified propositions.
Saratoga Springs Mayor Proposes Changes to Historic Building Rules
Mayor John Safford of Saratoga Springs addressed a crowded community meeting at the Spring Street Gallery regarding proposed changes to the city’s unified development ordinance. The mayor aims to reduce restrictions on demolishing historic homes and lessen the authority of the Design Review Board, arguing that current rules hinder property renovations due to high costs for historical standards. An example given was homeowners unable to afford replacing a slate roof with cheaper alternatives that mimic its appearance. Mayor Safford plans to submit his proposals to the City Council for a vote in July or August.