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Albany County Executive Dan McCoy has unveiled a new budget plan for the 2026 fiscal year, proposing a $902 million budget. This marks a six-percent increase from the current budget of $847 million. The plan includes a reduction in the property tax rate for the twelfth consecutive year, decreasing it from $2.73 to $2.56 per $1,000 of assessed property value.
During a presentation on Wednesday (October 15), McCoy emphasized that the budget balances fiscal responsibility with investments in infrastructure, opportunities for working families, and community safety. He stated, "This executive budget ... balances fiscal responsibility with forward-looking investments that will strengthen our infrastructure, expand opportunities for working families, and keep our neighborhoods safe, vibrant, and affordable" (Spectrum News).
However, the proposal has raised concerns among some lawmakers. County Legislator Frank Mauriello noted that the budget would significantly draw from reserves and highlighted uncertainties, particularly regarding expenditures at St. Rose, which might exceed initial expectations. Mauriello mentioned that the Republican and Conservative Conference plans to conduct a thorough examination of the budget proposal.
Public hearings are scheduled before the county Legislature votes on the budget in December. The full proposal is available on the county's website for public review.