The Suffolk County Legislature on Wednesday approved County Executive Edward P. Romaine’s $4.3 billion 2026 budget that raises taxes and continues to invest in public safety.

The legislature approved the budget in a 16-0 vote during a special meeting in Hauppauge. Legis. Rob Trotta (R-Fort Salonga) abstained and Legis. Trish Bergin (R-East Islip) was absent. The budget rises about 5.2% from the current $4 billion, with additional costs attributed to increased employee benefits and services.

"This is a good budget and we look forward to continuing to serve the people of Suffolk County with this kind of fiscal stability," said Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey (R-Lindenhurst).

The budget stays within the state-mandated tax cap and includes a 3.18% property tax increase, which falls under

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