Tax Cap, Mandate Relief & Hydrofracking Take Center Stage
Philipstown, N.Y. – (08/05/11) – Engaged residents and town board members turned out in Philipstown on Thursday for a stop on Senator Greg Ball’s (R, C – Patterson) Town Hall Tour. The visit was a chance for residents to get an update following this year’s legislative session, as well as an opportunity for Senator Ball to connect with the communities he represents.
Senator Ball hit hard on the recently passed Property Tax Cap bill, which has caused concern all over New York. “Is this going to hurt a little? Yes. Is this going to force a conversation? Yes,” said Ball as he invited residents to weigh-in on the discussion. “The property tax cap has flaws and I want to hear from each and every one of you about how we can make this bill better.”
Senator Ball fielded questions from the town board, as well as audience members, including one man who asked, “Why do you feel the tax cap will help with mandate relief?”
Senator Ball answered saying, “The property tax cap forces us to take a serious look at unfunded mandates. No one wants to cut drinking water tests out of the budget. These are good natured bills. But at some point, we need to decide if they are truly effective and worth the money,” added Ball.
Other members of the audience raised questions regarding the MTA Payroll Tax Repeal, safety concerns at the Indian Point Energy Center, as well as an upcoming hearing hosted by Senator Ball on Hydraulic Fracturing. Details on the hearing can be found by clicking here [3].
The Town Hall Tour is making stops in all 22 towns within the 40th Senate District. For the complete schedule, click here [4].
For more information or to speak with Senator Ball, please contact Ali Skinner: (845) 200-9716 [5].
