BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Erie County Legislature has officially adopted the 2026 county budget .

The final spending plan is expected to strengthen organizations, sets aside dedicated funding for the county’s three municipalities, and removes the proposed $20 million jail design study.

Democratic lawmakers said the plan keeps county spending focused while reducing the property tax rate to its lowest level in county history.

“We were proud to pass a fiscally sound budget for the next year that delivers for the people in Erie County,” Majority Leader John Gilmour said in a statement Thursday.

“We were able to secure critical funding for cultural and community organizations that are on the frontlines doing the necessary work. Included in that funding is $125,000 for Access of WNY that does i

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