Big Wins for Buffalo in Governor’s Budget

Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes

One of the New York State Legislature’s most important responsibilities is reviewing, amending, and approving the Governor’s annual budget. After a first look, I believe Governor Hochul delivered Buffalo and our people a lot of BIG wins in this budget.

I believe the Governor not only understands the challenges families are facing but is taking on the challenge of this moment head on. The Administration in Washington continues its attacks on New Yorkers, but as the leaders of our State we will not let them win. This budget not only expands critically needed services but protects our long-term financial stability.

A hot topic being discussed at kitchen tables across our community and the state is affordability. We are committed to making childcare affordable by expanding tax subsidies and Universal Pre-K without increases in taxes. Additionally, there are proposals to reign in other rising costs like auto insurance payments and utility bills.

The Governor included fully funding foundation aid for our schools ensuring that our children can access a world class education without an additional burden on district taxpayers. There is also an exciting new investment in giving our teens the skills to help each other take care of their mental health through the Mental Health First Aid training program.

Continued resources are being allocated to build new affordable housing and improving our local infrastructure including paving roads, replacing lead water pipes, and building major transportation projects. I am pleased that the Governor proposed to maintain an increase in Aid and Incentives for Municipalities and would like to see an even larger share go to Buffalo. My office is also in communication with the mayor’s office and other stakeholders to assess the City's fiscal situation and determine how the State may be able to assist.

We know there is more work to do. But I am ready to get into the details of the proposed budget to make sure Buffalo gets what it needs and deserves.