Poloncarz proposes record high Erie County Budget. $2 billion spending plan would also increase property tax levy

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz on Wednesday revealed his proposed budget for the coming year.

It sets record highs for both spending and the amount of property taxes the county will take in.

Under the proposal, which now goes to the Erie County legislature for approval, spending would increase by $113 million (roughly 5.75%) next year and the county's general fund spending would eclipse $2 billion for the first time in history.

The county property tax levy would also increase as part of the spending plan.

Rising costs

Like several county leaders across New York State Poloncarz claims the increased spending, for the most part, is out of his hands

"71% of the $113 million spending increase is coming from mandates from New York State," Poloncarz said.

However,