Last year, the state Legislature passed, and Governor Cuomo signed into law, a property tax cap to limit property tax increases to two percent annually or the rate of inflation, whichever was lower. The property tax cap was intended to help reduce the burden on New York homeowners paying some of the nation’s highest property taxes but the reality is that it hasn’t done enough, not nearly enough, to deliver the real tax relief many homeowners need.

For years I pushed and pulled, prodded and cajoled Albany’s broken status quo into finally waking up and recognizing that homeowners – especially homeowners in upstate where nine of the ten highest property taxed counties in America are located – faced a property tax crisis. Not a property tax problem but a property tax crisis threatening to force many from the very homes they built because they could not afford the tax bill.

UNFUNDED MANDATES STILL A HUGE PROBLEM

However, after the property tax cap was enacted, I immediately said that the cap was incomplete and that Albany needed to take action to relieve the ongoing burden on homeowners by enacting comprehensive unfunded mandate relief. Specifically, here’s what I said back in 2011:

“Absent significant relief from unfunded mandates and Albany-imposed cost drivers that local governments, school districts and our Conference have said must accompany any cap, New York’s property tax crisis remains.”

I said then – and have been saying ever since – that regardless of a tax cap, unless Albany did something to stop its endless tide of unfunded mandates – the rules, regulations and requirements State government annually imposes on local governments without providing any funding to offset their costs – property taxes would continue being a big problem.

This was certainly true for senior citizen homeowners living on fixed incomes and for families still struggling to weather the Great Recession. More than one year removed from my comments after the tax cap became law, the reality is that far too many homeowners are working harder and longer than ever just to afford their property taxes because of Albany unfunded mandates that force localities to raise taxes. While it may fall under the cap, a two percent property tax increase is still too much. I want a zero percent increase, but that won’t happen without unfunded mandate relief.

PROPERTY TAX CRISIS HAS BECOME AN UNFUNDED MANDATE CRISIS

What was a property tax crisis has become an Albany unfunded mandate crisis and it confronts every county, city, town and village government, every school district and every local taxpayer.

Unless we shut off Albany’s unfunded mandate spigot, the unrestricted flow of unfunded mandates will make the property tax cap less and less ineffective. When 90 cents of every County property tax dollar goes toward unfunded State mandates; Albany, we have a problem. Big time.

In fact, the unfunded mandate crisis has become so serious that there is regular talk in Albany of instituting “financial control boards” that would oversee, and, in some cases, administrate the budgets of numerous local governments. Having Albany – which caused many local governments’ financial problems – enact financial control boards is like asking the fox to oversee chicken coop security. It makes no sense. Albany has been, and continues to be, the source of our unfunded mandate problem. Solving this challenge requires taking proactive steps to stop unfunded mandates before they are imposed, along with rolling back existing mandates.

SMART SOLUTIONS FOR REAL UNFUNDED MANDATE RELIEF

Folks, there is a better way! It begins with stemming the rising tide of Albany unfunded mandates. Here are three policies we should enact during a Special Session this fall as opposed to waiting until 2013 for the problems to get even worse for local governments and taxpayers:

•Freeze the entire share of local costs from the Medicaid program and begin a phased-in State takeover of the total local share, not just the increase. New York spends more on Medicaid than Texas and Florida COMBINED even though those two states together have millions more people than we do;

•Ban all new unfunded State mandates and suspend current mandates (unrelated to health and safety) – this will allow local governments a moment to stop and catch their breath from the non-stop barrage of Albany’s unfunded mandates; and

•Free school districts from Albany’s time-consuming, duplicative, expensive paperwork and administrative mandates – this will help reduce costs for school districts and hold the line on any school property tax increases.

As I have said previously, Albany unfunded mandates threaten local governments, school districts and taxpayers. The property tax cap was not nearly enough and we need to do more. It’s time for Albany to wake up and help solve the unfunded mandate crisis facing New York before it’s too late.

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also find me on Facebook and follow me on Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Republican Conference.

For all the talk of how Albany has “changed” and things in our state are beginning to head in the right direction, the fact is that for millions of New Yorkers who work hard, struggle, sacrifice, and play by the rules, real change has not arrived fast enough. Families and job creators are still overtaxed, overregulated and overburdened by a state government that costs too much, spends too much, and puts up too many roadblocks to economic growth. Local governments and school districts are pushed to the brink of bankruptcy because of budget-busting Albany mandates like the Medicaid program.

Things may have gotten better, but better is not good enough. Not even close. New York (still) needs real change, right now.

TIME TO MAKE GOOD ON THE PROMISE OF A SMALLER, SMARTER, LESS COSTLY AND MORE EFFECTIVE STATE GOVERNMENT

The need for real change is not news to me. Readers of this column are well aware that nearly three years ago I launched a grassroots, non-partisan statewide effort to convene a “People’s Constitutional Convention.” I did so to empower New Yorkers to make fiscal and governmental changes our state government needed – like a State spending cap, term limits, independent redistricting, and initiative and referendum – but Albany’s broken status quo kept blocking.

MY GOAL: A MORE EFFECTIVE STATE GOVERNMENT, A MORE EFFECTIVE ECONOMY, A MORE EFFECTIVE CIVIC PROCESS

Building on my efforts to convene a “People’s Convention” I am proud to announce the launch of a groundbreaking, bi-partisan reform coalition, the “Citizens’ Committee for an Effective Constitution,” (also known as “EffectiveNY”) located on-line at http://effectiveny.org. EffectiveNY seeks to deliver a more effective State Constitution, a more effective state government, a more effective civic process and a more effective economy. This non-profit, non-partisan project has one goal: restoring New York’s reputation as a national economic and public policy leader by discussing and debating State Constitutional provisions that have contributed to statewide dysfunction, an underperforming economy and the loss of trust by New Yorkers in their State government and everyone serving in it.

EffectiveNY brings together recognized leaders and experts from the worlds of nonprofit/good government advocacy, private sector leadership and public service, academia and scholarly research to advance serious public discussion of issues pertaining to our State Constitution, government, economy and public policy.

EffectiveNY will generate informed discussion, lively debate and actual follow through that goes beyond traditional political and ideological labels to advance changes to the State Constitution that produce a more responsive and effective state government. EffectiveNY will focus on State Constitutional change and create a meaningful dialogue centered on reforming the Constitution, be it a Constitutional Convention, or an Amendment-by-Amendment approach. The debate will be passionate and spirited – but if you are looking for a political food fight, look elsewhere.

A “COALITION OF OPPOSITES”

I am proud to partner in this unprecedented bi-partisan reform effort with my good friend – and fellow Canandaigua native –Bill Samuels, who serves as Chairman of the government reform groups “New Roosevelt” and the “New Roosevelt Foundation.” Bill is one of New York’s strongest and most passionate voices for good government. In addition, Dr. Gerald Benjamin, the preeminent expert, author, professor and respected scholar on New York State government and our State Constitution, is helping lead EffectiveNY. Dr. Benjamin also serves as Director of the Center for Research, Regional Education and Outreach (CRREO) at SUNY New Paltz.

Bill Samuels, Dr.cialis online Benjamin and I launched EffectiveNY in the hopes of dusting off the State Constitution, advancing the cause of real Constitutional change and demonstrating how such changes could make a real difference for real New Yorkers. Our end goal is a more effective State Constitution that leads to more jobs, a stronger economy and true government reform so New York can reclaim its rightful role as a national leader.

EFFECTIVENY’S ON-LINE PLATFORM: HTTP://EFFECTIVENY.ORG

EffectiveNY is already live with an interactive on-line platform – http://effectiveny.org – that serves as a free, 24-hour accessible informational clearinghouse for journalists, elected officials, scholars, teachers, citizen activists and, most importantly, any New Yorker who wants to learn more about State government to make real and lasting change in the public arena. Go to http://effectiveny.org and send me your feedback! Our on-line platform will also be accepting reader comments in the very near future, so be sure to visit and share your thoughts.

VISIT HTTP://EFFECTIVENY.ORG, GET THE FACTS ON UNFUNDED MANDATE RELIEF, SPENDING CAP, RECALL, REDISTRICTING, AND MORE

One of the many user-friendly features of EffectiveNY’s website is its listing of timely issues that directly pertain to the lives of New Yorkers. The site lists public policy issues, along with their direct applicability and specific reference in the State Constitution. A total of 39 issues are in development including: redistricting; campaign finance reform; Constitutional change; Constitutional Amendments; Constitutional Convention; casino gambling; State spending cap; unfunded mandates and property tax reform, with more issues on the way. Each public policy issue section at EffectiveNY’s on-line platform also includes:

· “Fast Facts,” which enables the reader to get up to speed quickly on a particular policy issue and its State Constitutional history;

· “Point/Counterpoint,” which allows debate between people on either side of an issue on how to best address its constitutional ramifications as well as links to news articles, editorial and opinion pieces that have appeared in local media outlets and blogs across the state;

· “News and Opinion Pieces,” covering each issue taken from newspapers and blogs throughout the state;

· “Other States,” section which allows readers to compare and contrast how other State Constitutions address similar policy issues; and

· “Relevant Legislative Amendments,” with their direct links, that have been proposed in the State Legislature to address a particular policy issue;

$1,000 SCHOLARSHIP ESSAY CONTEST

As part of our educational commitment, EffectiveNY is also sponsoring a $1,000 scholarship essay competition. The contest, managed by SUNY, is open to law students and focuses on State Constitutional issues. While any Constitutional issue qualifies, a focus on campaign finance, redistricting, or any of the topics on our site’s homepage are of special interest to EffectiveNY. Essays selected as the strongest will be presented at a statewide conference on State Constitutional change where authors of the best will be awarded cash scholarship prizes of $1,000. To be eligible, essays must be between 5,000-7,500 words in length. The best essays will appear on EffectiveNY’s website and be seen by thousands.

EFFECTIVENY: MAKE STATE GOVERNMENT WORK FOR ALL NEW YORKERS

As detailed as this weekly column is, it barely scratches the surface of all the excellent content, ideas, details, facts and history of just about every issue imaginable pertaining to our State Constitution and State government. Don’t take my word for it: go to http://effectiveny.org, see for yourself and share this site with friends. Together, we can realize the goal of a more effective New York State and a government that works for all New Yorkers.

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Minority Conference.

Due to popular demand, I am once again hosting a series of Town Hall meetings so citizens can have the opportunity to let me know personally of their concerns. The feedback, views, opinions and insights received at these Town Hall meetings will shape the 2012 public policy agenda I will champion during the new Legislative Session.

TOWN HALL MEETINGS: A TIME-HONORED AMERICAN WAY OF MAKING YOUR OPINIONS KNOWN!

Town Hall meetings are as old as American democracy itself and have their direct roots right here in the Northeast. Town Halls are a model of self-governance where citizens can publicly raise important issues and take an active role in the affairs of, and learn more about, their government and the people serving in it. Town Hall meetings helped fan the earliest flames of liberty and independence so crucial in America’s founding – and their importance carries on over 200 years later.

SAVE THE DATE: SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4, FOR MY ONTARIO COUNTY TOWN HALL MEETINGS

The following is the schedule for my 2012 Town Hall meetings in Ontario County. I look forward to holding additional meetings in other parts of the district later this year, so be sure and stay tuned for regular updates. I encourage you to attend one or all of my Town Hall meetings and help spread the word with family, friends, neighbors and co-workers. Your opinion matters!

ONTARIO COUNTY TOWN HALL MEETINGS:

10:00a.m. – 10:30 a.m., at the Gorham Town Hall, 4736 South Street, Gorham

10:45 a.m. – 11:15 a.m., at the Geneva Town Hall, 3750 County Road #6, Geneva

11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., at the Manchester Town Hall, 1272 County Road 7, Clifton Springs

12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m., at the Canandaigua Town Hall, 5440 Routes 5 & 20 West, Canandaigua

SHARE YOUR VIEWS ON PRIVATE SECTOR JOB CREATION, RELIEF FROM ALBANY’S RULES, REGULATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS, 2012-13 STATE BUDGET AND REFORMING GOVERNMENT

This session, this year, I believe we need to continue working together to finish the people’s business that includes the following agenda:

•Rebuild New York’s economy, jumpstart economic development and focus on growing private sector jobs right here in the Finger Lakes and all across New York;

•Deliver relief from unfunded mandates – all the ridiculous rules, regulations and requirements Albany imposes – for local governments, school districts and taxpayers;

•Reform and redesign New York’s Medicaid program, which is the nation’s costliest, to cut costs for local government and reduce the property tax burden on homeowners;

•Institute a State spending cap, which will force Albany bureaucrats to balance the state’s checkbook, just like you and I do every month;

•Deliver tax relief and cut bureaucratic red tape for job creators, so they can create new jobs and invest in New York’s future;

•Ensure low-wealth and average-wealth school districts have the support they need to make sure ALL of our children receive a quality education;

•Invest in high-tech jobs and support research and development efforts so that our college graduates and young families can stay in New York;

•Hold the line: no new taxes, fees, surcharges or borrowing;

•Restructure and redesign government by consolidating State Agencies and delivering high-quality customer service to all taxpayers;

•Enact comprehensive pension reform; and

•Demand a new culture in Albany of transparency, openness and accountability.

I firmly believe that this shopping list of common-sense measures will move the ball forward and help bring private sector jobs back to New York. Our government works best when the people it serves make their voices heard loud and clear to the elected officials entrusted with the privilege of representing them. With your help and continued partnership, I will keep delivering a strong message that more jobs and less government must be our top priorities. I look forward to seeing you on Saturday, February 4th!

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Minority Conference.

As mentioned previously, this week’s column will serve as the first of a special two-part series looking back at 2011 and the year that was, highlighting some of the major successes from the recent session as legislators prepare to return to Albany in January for the 235th Legislative Session.

When people look back on 2011 from a state government perspective, I believe it will be remembered as an historic year that began a long process of moving our state toward reclaiming its rightful place as a national leader in private sector job creation, excellence in government and reducing the taxpayers’ burden. While we cannot say that each of these issues have been resolved entirely, we can say that 2011 gave us a head start toward achieving real progress.

JANUARY: A NEW GOVERNOR AND A CHANCE FOR NEW YORK TO HIT THE “RESET” BUTTON

The swearing-in of new Governor Andrew Cuomo meant a fresh start for New York State and the chance to leave years of Albany’s partisan gridlock and “governance by crisis” mindset behind. I said that the Governor’s State of the State Address, delivered on January 5, 2011, represented a fresh start and a chance for New York to hit the “reset” button. Many of the themes the Governor outlined – returning to fiscal responsibility, instituting better management of state government and taxpayer dollars, delivering real tax relief, rebuilding our economy and strengthening ethics – were cornerstone issues I have long been fighting for. I pledged my bi-partisan cooperation with the Governor so we could transform New York State for the better.

FEBRUARY: COMMENTING ON 2011-12 EXECUTIVE BUDGET, OFFERING SUGGESTIONS TO MAKE NON-PARTISAN REDISTRICTING REFORM A REALITY

February saw the Governor unveil his 2011-12 Executive Budget, a comprehensive spending plan that began a long overdue, and at times painful, process of restructuring, redesigning and reforming state government by taking concrete steps toward reducing government’s cost and size. Once again, the Governor was reading from my policy playbook!

In February, I sent the Governor a letter outlining my specific recommendations aimed at improving his “Redistricting Reform Act of 2011” to ensure a redistricting process that was 100 percent fair, non-partisan and delivered the competitive elections New Yorkers deserved so they had a real choice on Election Day. I urged the Governor to join me in taking partisan politics out of redistricting by establishing a truly independent Legislative Redistricting Commission.

MARCH: DELIVERING AN ON-TIME STATE BUDGET THAT ACTUALLY CUT SPENDING

With one day remaining before the state’s April 1 fiscal deadline, we passed the 2011-12 State Budget on March 31, delivering an on-time spending plan for the first time in a long time. The budget was by no means a perfect spending plan, but a realistic and necessary one. It involved tough choices that began a long overdue – and sometimes painful – process of reducing spending, rightsizing state government and reforming Albany’s broken culture of tax-and-spend. The budget contained important victories including defeat of a “Success Tax Surcharge” extension, closure of a $10 billion budget deficit, enactment of the Power for Jobs program and a reduction of government spending.

APRIL: USING TECHNOLOGY TO SAVE TAXPAYER DOLLARS, RECOGNIZING NEW YORK’S “TAX FREEDOM DAY”

As part of my ongoing effort to save taxpayer dollars and reduce costs during these tough economic times and era of multi-billion dollar State Budget deficits, in April I asked residents to connect with me electronically through e-mail and social media outlets like Twitter, Facebook and YouTube, to reduce legislative mailing costs and save taxpayer dollars. I am pleased to report that, thanks to constituents who are now contacting me electronically, my office has been able to significantly reduce its legislative mailings and, in the process, save thousands of taxpayer dollars. So be sure and keep those e-mails, Facebook posts and Tweets coming!

Also in April, I recognized New York’s “Tax Freedom Day,” which was America’s third latest and said Albany could not continue putting tax relief on the backburner. Our state’s Tax Freedom Day – April 24 – represented when folks had finally earned enough to pay off their annual tax bill and was 12 days after the national Tax Freedom Day of April 12. I said New York is still one of America’s highest-taxed states and that unless Albany took concrete steps to reduce the burden of our property, individual income, corporate, gasoline and sales taxes, New York’s engine of job creation – the private sector – will remain stuck in neutral.

MAY: LISTENING TO CONSTITUENTS DURING MY “TELE-TOWN HALL”

May 18 was my “Tele-Town Hall Meeting” which featured an important conversation about New York’s future with thousands of local constituents from across the 129th Assembly District. A Tele-Town Hall is an innovative outreach tool that lets elected officials like me hear from, and speak with, constituents simultaneously during a lively and informative telephone conference call. During my Tele-Town Hall Meeting, I had the opportunity to communicate with thousands of residents who asked me specific questions and took part in opinion polls seeking their views on issues such as tax relief, reducing spending, creating private sector jobs and rightsizing state government.

JUNE: PUSHING FOR UNFUNDED MANDATE RELIEF, RECOGNIZING AN IMPORTANT LEGAL VICTORY IN THE FIGHT TO ENFORCE THE LAW

As the 2011 Legislative Session was nearing completion, the issue of unfunded mandate relief had fallen off Albany’s radar as absolutely nobody was talking about it. In my opinion, that was completely unacceptable and represented a clear failure on Albany’s part to “get it.”

I said that simply doing nothing while Albany’s unfunded mandates continued pushing local governments, school districts and taxpayers toward bankruptcy was NOT an option! This is why I gathered our Conference, County leaders and local government advocates in the State Capitol to make one final push for unfunded mandate relief before the 2011 Legislative Session concluded. Joining me were County leaders such as Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks, and local government supporters such as New York State School Boards Association Executive Director Tim Kremer. We called for up-or-down votes on a host of legislation that would, among other things, cap state spending, freeze the local share of Medicaid costs for counties and force the state to pay for its unfunded mandates.

In addition, June saw a landmark State Appellate Division ruling that lifted the temporary order preventing the collection of taxes on cigarettes sold on Native American lands to non-Native American Indians. As the only Legislative Leader in state government who has continually pushed for enforcing the law on this matter, I said the ruling was a big victory for upstate taxpayers, businesses and everyone believing in the rule of law. Now that the legal roadblocks were removed, I said New York had a “green light” and should move full speed ahead with enforcing the law, collecting the taxes and leveling the playing field. I urged the Department of Taxation and Finance to begin the tax collections immediately.

COMING NEXT WEEK: 2011: THE YEAR IN REVIEW, PART II

Next week will feature Part II of 2011: The Year in Review, picking up where the 2011 Legislative Session left off, focusing on the months of July through December and everything that took place during that timeframe. The column will focus on my fight to stop the Unemployment Insurance Interest Assessment Surcharge imposed on small businesses, the devastation caused to New York by Hurricane Irene and the continued efforts of certain liberal politicians in Albany to revive the Success Tax Surcharge – exactly as I predicted would happen in this weekly column back in May!

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Minority Conference.

Only two legislative days remain in the 2011 Session as this column is being composed, so next week’s edition will contain a detailed wrap-up highlighting the accomplishments from this year’s session, while listing any unfinished business needing completion. The subject of this week’s column is the issue of unfunded mandates – and my groundbreaking legislation that would give local governments, school districts and taxpayers real relief from Albany’s cost drivers.

Over the past year, I have been meeting with countless local elected officials, school board members and taxpayers, listening to their concerns about what state government could do to stop hurting and start helping. During my meetings, I have consistently heard the same powerful message: we need REAL RELIEF from Albany’s unfunded mandates, fiscal irresponsibility and mandated programs like Medicaid, along with rising health care, payroll and pension obligations. These budget-busting cost drivers are bankrupting localities, school districts and taxpayers – and threatening New York’s long-term financial future.

These concerns are much more than an “issue” to me: as a former local elected official, I know firsthand the fiscal devastation caused by Albany’s “pass-the-buck” mentality. This is why I am proud to announce my introduction of the most comprehensive unfunded mandate relief legislation ever advanced by a Legislative Leader in state government: the “Taxpayer Protection and Mandate Relief Act,” Assembly Bill A.8447. This initiative would significantly address Albany’s cost drivers and restore fiscal sanity to state government.

TAXPAYER PROTECTION & MANDATE RELIEF ACT: THE “GAME CHANGER” LOCALITIES, SCHOOL DISTRICTS & TAXPAYERS HAVE WAITED FOR

The Taxpayer Protection and Mandate Relief Act is the most sweeping initiative of its kind brought forward during this, or any other Legislative Session in recent memory. If you are a regular reader of my columns, you already know that I have been leading the fight to address Albany’s unfunded mandates – the bureaucratic rules, regulations and requirements that state government imposes on local governments and school districts that significantly drive up costs. The unfunded mandate costs end up being passed on to local taxpayers who pick up the tab in the form of higher property taxes.

The legislation I introduced would provide a moratorium on new unfunded mandates for as long as a property tax cap is in place; freeze County Medicaid costs; give the Governor and state Legislature the power to repeal existing unfunded mandates; enact comprehensive pension reform; and enact many other positive changes. Here are some specific provisions of the Taxpayer Protection and Mandate Relief Act:

SUSPEND & REMOVE ALBANY’S UNFUNDED MANDATES

a.. Prohibit any new unfunded mandates on local governments and school districts for as long as a property tax cap is in place;

a.. Require “fiscal notes” – specific language making it clear what a piece of legislation’s financial impact is – on bills affecting local governments;

a.. Establish a process for the Governor to annually submit to the state Legislature a plan to repeal unfunded mandates. Also, require the state Legislature to vote on the plan within 60 days of its submission, with or without amendments;

RESTORE FISCAL RESTRAINT TO STATE GOVERNMENT

a.. Cap state spending to the average rate of inflation of the three previous calendar years and increase the maximum capacity of the state’s Rainy Day Fund from three percent to 10 percent of General Fund spending. If a spending cap had been in place over the past decade, spending would have been $30 billion less this year;

REDUCE PUBLIC PENSION & PAYROLL OBLIGATIONS

a.. Establish a defined contribution retirement plan for all new public employees and teachers, who join a New York State or New York City Retirement System;

a.. Allow local governments to opt out of the provisions of the Triborough Amendment, which allows for step-increases during periods of expired contracts and removes the incentive for public employee unions to renegotiate contracts;

REIN IN MEDICAID MANDATES

a.. Allow counties to opt out of providing optional Medicaid services to new enrollees. Also, require the State Commissioner of Health to apply for a federal waiver to implement this provision;

a.. Freeze the municipal share of Medicaid costs at the current level;

ADDRESS HEALTH CARE COSTS

a.. Increase the state tax credit allowed for the premium paid for long-term care insurance from 20 to 50 percent;

a.. Allow health savings accounts, which are low rate-high deductible plans with catastrophic coverage. These plans are currently prohibited under New York State Law;

a.. Require all public employees to make minimum health care contributions (10 percent for individuals, 25 percent for families);

CUT THE EXPENSE OF LOCAL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

a.. Remove prevailing wage requirements on municipal construction projects with a total anticipated cost of less than $500,000;

a.. Repeal the state law that extended applicability of the prevailing wage law to private sector third parties contracting out work for a public entity;

a.. Grant counties a local option to not follow sections 240 and 241 of the State Labor Law (Scaffold Act) and be subject to a contributory negligence standard;

a.. Repeal the WICKS Law, a state mandate that significantly drives up construction costs for localities and school districts by requiring separate plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and electrical contracts for certain projects;

a.. Allow contractors to submit bids that do not include project labor agreements;

PROVIDE RELIEF FROM STATE ADMINISTRATIVE & PAPERWORK REQUIREMENTS:

a.. Allow for regional school district employee collective bargaining through BOCES;

a.. Require the State Commissioner of Education to reduce onerous paperwork requirements and allow the electronic submission of reports;

a.. Authorize school districts and the State Commissioner of Education to determine when Academic Intervention Services (AIS) are redundant;

a.. Discontinue the cost of fingerprinting from collective bargaining agreements with teacher unions;

a.. Require all professional development plans to be designed by State Education Department. Also, allow school districts to create development and mentoring plans once every three years, rather than on a yearly basis; and

a.. Require building inspections once every three years as opposed to annually.

The Taxpayer Protection and Mandate Relief Act represents the first, serious step toward delivering real relief from Albany’s unfunded mandates and would save billions by significantly reducing cost drivers for local governments, school districts and taxpayers. This legislation should mark the start of a much-needed adult conversation about dealing with Albany’s unfunded mandates, reining in entitlement programs like Medicaid, and putting the brakes on major cost drivers like health care and pensions. If enacted, the legislation I advanced will reduce Albany’s crushing burden on taxpayers and finally make good on the promise of a state government that is helping, not hurting.

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Minority Conference.

“As the 2011 Legislative Session enters its final week, the unresolved issue of unfunded mandate relief cannot wait – or be allowed to fall through the cracks in Albany as seems to happen every year. Delivering unfunded mandate relief that actually saves money for local governments and school districts is a must-do priority before session concludes June 20. Just as we have on the property tax cap, ethics reform and other unfinished business, Assembly Republicans are also leading the fight in calling for action on unfunded mandate relief, this year, this session.

Unfunded mandates – the endless river of rules, regulations and red tape that Albany imposes on local governments and school districts that ultimately raises local property taxes – are true budget busters accounting for as much as 80 to 85 percent of many Counties’ expenses, according to the New York State Association of Counties. Unless Albany does something to address these principal cost drivers, state government will simply keep passing its buck, and its costs, onto the backs of local governments, forcing local taxpayers to make up the difference. This vicious circle must be broken. The vast majority of local governments and school districts have already tightened their belts and reduced operating costs. Now, Albany needs to step up to the plate and actually deliver on the promise of unfunded mandate relief as our Conference and I have been urging for years.

Eliminating administrative mandates is a decent start, but we can, and should, go further. We have to deliver serious unfunded mandate relief that actually saves money for local governments and school districts. This means providing a moratorium on new unfunded mandates for as long as a property tax cap is in place; freezing County Medicaid costs; giving the Governor and state Legislature the power to repeal existing unfunded mandates; allowing localities to seek waivers from state government on specific unfunded mandates and enacting comprehensive pension reform. Equally important, we need a state spending cap to ensure state government tightens its belt as localities already have done. In fact, if a spending cap had been in place over the past 10 years, spending would have been $30 billion less this year. These are just some of the common sense steps we can take toward delivering unfunded mandate relief and addressing Albany’s cost drivers that hurt local governments, school districts and taxpayers.”

At the time this weekly column is being written, the 2011 Legislative Session is officially set to conclude on Monday, June 20. Until then, there are exactly eight official “legislative” days remaining for the Assembly and Senate. That means Legislative Leaders like me, legislators, and Governor Cuomo have exactly eight days to reach final agreement on several items of unfinished business that New Yorkers are demanding – and deserve – to have resolved.

ALBANY CAN’T ALLOW IMPORTANT ISSUES TO FALL THROUGH THE CRACKS

Much like every year, there will probably be a mad dash to the finish line during the waning days of session, punctuated by some very late nights and last-minute deal making. This is nothing new: trying to forge agreement between 212 legislators and the Governor on complex public policies affecting the future of every New Yorker requires some give-and-take. Nevertheless, what we cannot allow to have happen is for important issues to fall through the cracks – or fall victim to a bad deal. That is unacceptable. New Yorkers have heard all the promises and now they want results: this year, this session.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: PROPERTY TAX CAP, ETHICS REFORM, REDISTRICTING REFORM, UNFUNDED MANDATE RELIEF AND JOB CREATION

Front and center on Albany’s extensive to-do list are several pressing public policy issues including the property tax cap, ethics reform, redistricting reform, unfunded mandate relief and private sector job creation. While these are not the only matters needing resolution – many legislators have local issues that are legitimate and worthwhile – in my view, the priorities I listed are the most pressing and should command our time and attention. The following is a checklist of each issue and why it needs to be resolved over the next eight days – keep this list handy and follow the progress of the 2011 session as it draws to a close.

TO-DO: PROPERTY TAX CAP

New York has a property tax crisis – property tax rates in our state are nearly double the national average and nine of the ten highest property taxed counties (as a percentage of home value) are located across upstate. While there was an announcement of an agreement on the property tax cap two weeks ago, the legislation still has not been brought to the floor by the Assembly Democratic Majority for an up or down vote, as I have called for all along.

New York needs a property tax cap and will have a property tax cap if Assembly Democrats bring Governor Cuomo’s property tax cap bill to the floor for an up or down vote. In addition to the Governor’s bill, I have sponsored property tax cap legislation – the “New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act,” Assembly Bill A.3897-B – that would cap property taxes at two percent or the rate of inflation, whichever is lower. The bill also includes unfunded mandate relief for County governments and local school districts.

TO-DO: ETHICS REFORM

As these words are being put to paper, there is talk in Albany of a deal on ethics reform. Unfortunately, that is all we have heard: talk. As deliberations on an ethics bill continue, we cannot lose sight of the fact that Albany has been awash in a culture of corruption and plagued by a series of embarrassing scandals. My goal is for New York State government to have the toughest ethics laws in the nation. This means no public pension for public officials convicted of a felony, no more “pay-to-play,” and a genuine commitment to the principles of disclosure, transparency and accountability.

TO-DO: REDISTRICTING REFORM

In 2012, the boundaries for all 150 Assembly Districts and all 62 Senate Districts will be redrawn in accordance with results of the 2010 U.S. Census and our State Constitution. I have been out front – and vocal – in calling for creation of an independent Legislative Redistricting Commission to take partisan politics out of redistricting. An independent Legislative Redistricting Commission is the only way to ensure we have elections that are 100 percent fair and competitive so voters have a real choice. To make this happen, I am sponsoring a non-partisan redistricting initiative – Assembly Bill A.6482 – and have submitted my recommendations to Governor Cuomo to improve his “Redistricting Reform Act of 2011.”

TO-DO: UNFUNDED MANDATE RELIEF

I have said it before and will keep saying it: there is a direct link between Albany’s unfunded mandates – the costly, cumbersome, time-consuming rules, regulations and red tape state government imposes on local governments and school districts – and your property tax bill. Albany unfunded mandates drive up local costs and local property taxes. While passing a property tax cap is a down payment on the promise of tax relief, a tax cap alone does not go far enough. Truly delivering property tax relief means capping property taxes, putting the brakes on unfunded state mandates, and capping state spending. I will soon be introducing legislation that accomplishes all three of these goals – stay tuned!

TO-DO: PRIVATE SECTOR JOB CREATION

This column was prepared on Friday, June 3, just a few hours after news broke that the national jobless rate actually increased, climbing from 9 percent to 9.1 percent. That seemingly small change has big implications, as it translates into thousands more on the unemployment lines. Here in New York we also are struggling, as our economy lags behind that of other states, largely due to our high cost of doing business and having the worst State Business Tax Climate in America. We need a plan – an actual plan – that will help create more private sector jobs and put more New Yorkers back to work. Passing such a plan this session is just as important – if not more so – than any of the other aforementioned priorities remaining on Albany’s to-do list.

2011 SESSION WILL END ON A HIGH NOTE – IF ALBANY BUCKLES DOWN AND FINISHES THE PEOPLE’S BUSINESS

While the 2011-12 State Budget – which was on time, closed a $10 billion deficit, reduced government spending and contained no significant tax hikes – was a good start, if Albany fails to achieve agreement on the unfinished business I outlined, this session will likely be remembered as the latest in a long line of missed opportunities. I am working hard to make sure this is not the case and that New Yorkers see real results on the property tax cap, ethics and redistricting reform, unfunded mandate relief and private sector job creation. One thing is for certain: with just eight legislative days remaining, there is not a moment to lose!

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Minority Conference.

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of taking part in a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Autism Center at the Ontario County ARC. The Center is an important community resource that will play a critical role in helping individuals with autism and their families. Bill Castiglione, Executive Director of the Ontario ARC, and the Honorable Jack Schuppenhauer, NYSARC President, joined me at the ribbon cutting. The dedication served as a reminder for each of us to recognize children with special needs, especially those affected by autism.

AUTISM AFFECTS 1 IN 110 CHILDREN

According to the organization Autism Speaks – the nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism – autism affects 1 in 110 children, 1 in 70 boys and, most concerning, autism prevalence figures are growing. Clearly, this issue touches many families: you likely know someone, or know of someone, dealing with autism.

As noted by the National Institutes of Health, autism affects the brain’s development of social and communication skills. People with autism can have difficulty with social interactions, verbal and nonverbal communication. They can be overly or under sensitive to sight, hearing, touch, smell or taste. It is critically important that we provide the necessary resources, support and understanding to families touched by autism because autism touches us all. You can learn more about autism by visiting the Autism Speaks website at www.autismspeaks.org.

A WONDERFUL AFTERNOON OUT FOR FAMILIES LIVING WITH AUTISM

In an effort to provide such support, I am proud to partner with the Autism Center at the Ontario ARC to present a “sensory friendly” movie matinee specially designed for the needs of children with autism. The Smith Opera House, located at 82 Seneca Street in Geneva, will be showing the family movie “How to Train Your Dragon” at noon on Saturday, June 11. There is no need to RSVP, the sensory friendly movie is free and open to the community. The good folks at Ontario ARC are dedicated to helping individuals with special needs, and I am happy to sponsor this movie. Please help spread the word about this great opportunity for local children in the Geneva area.

“SENSORY FRIENDLY” FILM EXPERIENCE IS A CHANCE FOR SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN TO ENJOY THEMSELVES

A sensory friendly film experience provides autistic children and their families with the opportunity to enjoy something that many take for granted – a simple afternoon out at the movies. The specially designed atmosphere takes the pressure off children to be silent and sit still. The theater lights are soft, and the normally booming surround sound is lowered. Children will not have to sit and focus on a movie for two hours; it is acceptable to walk around, talk, and even dance in the aisles. Parents, caregivers and children can have a wonderful and rewarding experience as a family, spending quality time in public in a supportive, stress-free atmosphere.

All parents cherish time spent with their children. Every mother and father wants an opportunity to experience quality family time in a comfortable public setting, and children with autism deserve a safe, nurturing environment that meets their special needs and gives them the freedom to enjoy being a kid. The upcoming sensory friendly movie matinee I am sponsoring will provide just such an opportunity. It is my hope that by hosting this film, we can give children and their families an enjoyable day out at the movies. Little things like this can go a long way toward helping enhance the quality of life for children and families living with autism.

PROPERTY TAX CAP IS FINALLY IN SIGHT!

Regular readers of my weekly legislative columns are already well aware that I have spent the last several years tirelessly pushing, prodding and calling on certain liberal politicians in Albany to recognize the severity of New York’s property tax crisis and respond by delivering real property tax relief. In recent years, a large part of my effort has been focused on advocating for an up or down vote on a real property tax cap.

After years of urging the Assembly Democratic Majority to take action, the property tax cap is finally in sight for New York homeowners! I was honored to introduce Governor Andrew Cuomo at a recent press conference at the State Capitol announcing that a property tax cap was likely before the end of session this June. The news is welcome relief for overburdened homeowners across our state that pay some of America’s highest property taxes.

UNFUNDED MANDATE RELIEF MUST BE PART OF THE SOLUTION

Capping property taxes is a critical first step toward New York becoming a more affordable place to live, but it cannot be the only step, or the last word. As I have been saying all along, a property tax cap by itself is simply not enough. Just as important as passing the property tax cap, we must deliver comprehensive unfunded mandate relief for local governments and school districts that are drowning in a sea of costly paperwork, rules and regulations imposed by Albany. A property tax cap without unfunded mandate relief is incomplete, which is why I will continue fighting for enactment of this policy priority before session concludes.

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Minority Conference.

Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,I,C-Canandaigua) is pictured (center, speaking at podium) discussing news that a property tax cap would finally be moving forward in the Assembly. During his remarks, Leader Kolb said the development meant “Hope for New York,” and that a property tax cap was “Welcome news for overtaxed homeowners.” Leader Kolb also said that the state Legislature now needed to focus on delivering unfunded mandate relief for local governments and school districts to fulfill the promise of true property tax relief.

Pictured, front row, from left to right, are New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver; New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo; New York State Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb and Senate Republican Majority Leader Dean Skelos. Also pictured, back row, from left to right, are Brian Sampson, Executive Director of Unshackle Upstate; Mike Elmendorf, President and CEO of the Associated General Contractors of New York State; F. Michael Tucker, President and CEO of the Center for Economic Growth; Garry Douglas, President of the Plattsburgh-North Country Chamber of Commerce and Kenneth Adams, President and CEO of Empire State Development and Commissioner of the New York State Department of Economic Development.

Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,I,C-Canandaigua) is pictured (center, speaking at podium) introducing Governor Andrew Cuomo (left) during yesterday’s press conference at the State Capitol in Albany announcing that a property tax cap was finally in sight for overtaxed homeowners. Leader Kolb introduced Governor Cuomo and thanked the Governor for his partnership in working with him, and Assembly Republicans, on the tax cap. Pictured, from left to right, are New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo; New York State Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb and Senate Republican Majority Leader Dean Skelos.

Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,I,C-Canandaigua) will be hosting a “Tele-Town Hall” meeting tomorrow, Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. Tele-Town Hall participants will be invited to ask Leader Kolb questions and hear his responses on issues relating to public policy and state government. The Tele-Town Hall meeting is free and open to all residents of the 129th Assembly District.

WHO: Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb
(R,I,C-Canandaigua)

WHAT: Tele-Town Hall Meeting with constituents

WHEN: Tomorrow, Wednesday, May 18, at 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Individuals may connect by calling 1-877-229-8493
When prompted enter PIN number 17906

CONTACT: Josh Fitzpatrick, (518) 455-3751
joshuakevfitz@yahoo.com

Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,I,C-Canandaigua) is pictured (left, at podium) speaking in support of a property tax cap at a rally organized by Long Islanders For Educational Reform (LIFER) today in Albany. New Yorkers from across the state attended the event to build support for property tax cap legislation and urge swift passage of the bill in the Assembly.

Since 2007, the Assembly Minority Conference has led the charge to provide property tax relief to overburdened homeowners and businesses. On April 11th of this year, the Conference went on record in support of Governor Cuomo’s Property Tax Program Bill, but the Democrat Majority, using a procedural measure, would not allow it to come to the floor for a vote.

Leader Kolb is calling for an immediate up or down vote so that New York State taxpayers can see who really supports a property tax cap – and who doesn’t.

Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,I,C-Canandaigua) will be joined by Assembly and Senate colleagues to discuss their support for a property tax cap for New York homeowners TOMORROW, Tuesday, May 10, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. in “The Well” of the Legislative Office Building in Albany. The rally, organized by Long Islanders for Education Reform (LIFER), will build support for property tax cap legislation and urge swift passage of the bill in the Assembly.

WHO: Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,I,C-Canandaigua)
Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick (R,C,I-Smithtown)
Assemblyman Michael Montesano (R,I,C-Glen Head)
Assemblyman Dean Murray (R,C-East Patchogue)
Senator John Flanagan (2nd Senate District)

WHAT: Property Tax Cap Rally

WHEN: Tomorrow, Tuesday, May 10
at 11:30 a.m.

WHERE: “The Well” of the Legislative Office Building
Corner of State and S. Swan Streets, Albany

CONTACT: Josh Fitzpatrick, (518) 455-3751
joshuakevfitz@yahoo.com

With just 19 official legislative days remaining in this year’s session of the New York State Assembly, there is a great deal of work still needing completion – and little time to get it all done. Topping the to-do list are issues such as strengthening New York’s ethics laws, getting a private sector job creation plan in place, and delivering unfunded mandate relief to local governments and school districts. All of these issues should be acted upon, no excuses.

However, of the many items remaining on Albany’s must-do list this session, probably none is as important, or pressing, as finally getting a property tax cap in place so we can deliver real relief to homeowners. With nine of the ten highest-taxed counties (as a percentage of home value) located here in upstate, and property taxes in New York being nearly double the national average, it is ridiculous that we don’t already have a cap in place. Assembly Republicans have been continually pushing this issue since 2007 and, after years of delay and foot dragging by the Assembly Democrat Majority, the end zone is finally in sight.

MY MESSAGE TO GOVERNOR CUOMO: LET TAXPAYERS KNOW WHO ACTUALLY SUPPORTS THE PROPERTY TAX CAP – AND WHO DOESN’T

In order to help us make the property tax cap happen – and give this issue one final, big push this session – Governor Andrew Cuomo will be embarking on a statewide tour to build support for enactment of a property tax cap, and some of the other unfinished business that I referenced in this column’s opening. I publicly said that the Governor’s announcement of his traveling the state to generate support for the property tax cap was welcome news. I appreciate everything the Governor has done to support our Conference’s efforts to make the property tax cap a top priority, not next year, or during some future session, but this year, this session.

I also said that the Governor should make it perfectly clear to all New York taxpayers who actually supports the property tax cap – and who doesn’t. Our Conference supports the property tax cap and is already on record as voting for the Governor’s Property Tax Cap Program Bill. In fact, on April 11, our Conference offered the Governor’s bill – the very same legislation that the Senate Republican Majority passed back on January 31 – as an amendment to the Majority’s rent regulation legislation.

Even though all 51 Members of our Conference supported the property tax cap amendment, the Majority defeated it during a procedural vote. In short, the Majority voted against the tax cap.

THE RECORD IS CLEAR: ASSEMBLY REPUBLICANS SUPPORT THE CAP

Without question, the legislative record, the voting record, and the public record are crystal clear: Assembly Republicans have been pushing for an up-or-down vote on the property tax cap since we first introduced the “New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act” back in 2007. Ever since then, the Majority has kept our tax cap bill bottled up in Committee. Adding further insult to injury, the Majority has done the EXACT SAME THING with Governor Cuomo’s
property tax cap bill. As I write this column, the Governor’s legislation remains held in the Assembly Ways and Means Committee, captive to the Majority’s refusal to deal with New York’s property tax crisis. Isn’t it time for an end to these foolish political games and for Majority Members to support our efforts to deliver real property tax relief? I think so.

GOVERNOR CUOMO NEEDS TO GIVE THE PEOPLE THE FACTS

The Governor needs to mention all of these facts whenever he speaks with fed-up homeowners forced to endure some of the nation’s highest property taxes. New York has never been closer to having a property tax cap; in the Assembly, we are literally just 25 Democrat votes away from the tax cap passing. If 25 Democrats were to set partisan politics aside and join with our Members, New York State would finally have a tax cap – and homeowners would finally see some relief! If the Governor takes my advice and gives the people these facts, I am confident the property tax cap will pass this session.

THANK YOU TO AMERICA’S BRAVEST!

Every American will always remember where they were the night of Sunday, May 1, 2011 when the news first broke that our courageous Armed Forces had eliminated the world’s number one terrorist, Osama bin Laden. Words cannot begin to express the gratitude, thanks and appreciation that I, and all Americans, have for our heroic Special Forces and intelligence personnel who made the daring raid and put an end to Osama bin Laden’s murderous reign of terror. While we may never know the names of the soldiers who got Osama bin Laden, we can still say “thank you” and applaud their courage, fortitude and skill. Job well done!

PLEASE DON’T FORGET: MY “TELE-TOWN HALL” IS MAY 18

By this column’s publication, my Tele-Town Hall meeting will likely be just a few days away. Remember, you can take part in the conversation on Wednesday, May 18, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., by calling 1-877-229-8493 and entering PIN number 17906 when prompted. If you want to ask me a question during the Q&A period, press “zero” on your telephone. I’m looking forward to speaking with residents on May 18 and having a great conversation about what we can do to make New York State an even better place to live, work and raise a family.

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Minority Conference.

As Governor Andrew Cuomo prepares to embark on his statewide tour to build
support for enactment of a property tax cap, Assembly Minority Leader Brian
M. Kolb (R,I,C-Canandaigua) today said the Governor should, “Make it clear
to New York taxpayers who actually supports the property tax cap – and who
doesn’t.”

“Governor Cuomo’s announcement that he will be traveling the state to
generate support for the property tax cap is welcome news. The Governor
should make it perfectly clear to New York taxpayers who actually supports
the property tax cap – and who doesn’t. Our Assembly Republican Conference
supports the property tax cap, is on record as voting for the Governor’s
property tax cap bill, and has been leading this fight since 2007,” Leader
Kolb said.

On April 11, 2011, Leader Kolb and the Minority Conference offered Governor
Cuomo’s Property Tax Cap Program Bill – the same legislation that the Senate
Republican Majority passed back on January 31 – as an amendment to the
Assembly Democrat Majority’s rent regulation legislation. All 51 Members of
the Assembly Minority supported the amendment that was ultimately defeated
by the Democrat Majority on a procedural vote.

“The legislative record, the voting record, and the public record are
perfectly clear: our Members have been pushing for an up-or-down vote on the
property tax cap since we first introduced the ‘New York State Property
Taxpayers Protection Act’ over four years ago. Since then, the Assembly
Democrat Majority has kept our tax cap bill bottled up in Committee. These
are facts the Governor should mention when speaking with fed-up homeowners
who pay some of the nation’s highest property taxes,” Leader Kolb stated.

“New York has never been closer to having a property tax cap. In the
Assembly, we are only 25 Democrat votes away from the tax cap passing.
Think about that: if 25 Democrats join with our Members, our state will
finally have a tax cap. If Governor Cuomo takes his statewide tour to
Assembly Democrat Majority districts – and the media lets homeowners in
these communities know where the Member truly stands – I am confident the
property tax cap will pass this session,” Leader Kolb concluded.

Several weeks ago, I asked for your feedback – and boy, did you ever respond! Thousands of constituents took part in my 2011 Legislative Survey and shared their views on matters ranging from pocketbook issues like the property tax cap and closing New York’s budget deficit, to hot button issues such as same-sex marriage and hydrofracking. As promised, after carefully tabulating all of the responses, here are the results to my 2011 Legislative Survey:

For the first question, as to whether things in New York State are headed in the right direction, 22.6 percent of respondents said right direction, 63.8 percent said wrong direction, and 13.6 percent offered no response.

When asked if they agreed or disagreed with the following statement – “The recession in New York has ended and our economy is finally growing again” – 7 percent of respondents agreed, 88.1 percent disagreed, and 4.9 percent had no opinion.

For the question of whether a respondent, or someone they knew, had been laid off from their job in the past year, 66.5 percent said yes, 29.3 percent said no, and 4.2 percent had no response.

Regarding whether there should be 9,800 state workforce layoffs to close New York’s projected multi-billion dollar budget deficit, 48.8 percent of respondents said yes, 22.5 percent said yes – but with less than 9,800 layoffs, 16.1 percent said for the state to find the savings somewhere else, 8.3 percent were undecided, and 4.3 percent did not offer a response.

Concerning closure of New York’s projected multi-billion dollar budget deficit, 80.6 percent of respondents favored consolidating and merging State Agencies, 31.2 percent supported reducing spending on education, 61.6 percent said to cut State Agency budgets by 10 percent, 34 percent favored reducing Medicaid program services, 49.2 percent said to offer incentives to public employees for early retirement, 61.3 percent said for the state to institute a hiring and wage freeze for public employees, 58.5 percent called for collecting sales taxes from cigarettes and gasoline sold on Native American lands, less than one percent supported increased borrowing, and 6.8 percent favored a tax increase.

The question of enacting a property tax cap elicited a strong response, with 59 percent favoring a property tax cap that included mandate relief, 19.4 percent supporting the property tax cap, 7.7 percent opposing the property tax cap, 10.9 percent being undecided, and 3 percent providing no response.

Regarding my push for convening a non-partisan, grassroots “People’s Constitutional Convention” to reform state government, 54.7 percent of respondents were strongly in favor, 24.6 percent were somewhat in favor, 3.4 percent were somewhat opposed, 4.1 percent were strongly opposed, 11.1 percent were undecided, and 2.1 percent did not provide an answer.

For the question of whether legislative districts should be redrawn by an independent, non-partisan Legislative Redistricting Commission, 65.8 percent of respondents were strongly in favor, 15.8 percent somewhat favored the idea, 3.4 were somewhat opposed, 4.1 percent were strongly opposed, 8.2 percent were undecided, and 2.7 percent did not provide an answer.

As to the best way to enact meaningful ethics reform and clean up our scandal-plagued state government, 61.7 percent of respondents supported term limits for legislators, 60.4 percent supported term limits for Legislative Leaders, 63.9 percent wanted campaign finance reform, 62.5 percent chose comprehensive ethics reform, 72.4 percent favored public disclosure of outside income earned by legislators, and 44.3 percent supported convening a “People’s Constitutional Convention.”

The question as to whether New York State should allow same-sex couples the legal right to marry received a strong response, with 23.8 percent of respondents supporting same-sex marriage, 39 percent opposing same-sex marriage, with 28.5 percent favoring a different approach, such as civil unions, 5.9 percent being undecided on the issue, and 2.8 percent opting not to provide an answer.

On the issue of whether New York State should access its natural gas reserves through the process of hydraulic fracturing, 43 percent of respondents supported this type of energy exploration, 36.9 percent opposed hydrofracking, 18.1 percent were undecided, and 2 percent had no opinion on the matter.

Finally, regarding my upcoming “Tele-Town Hall” meeting on Wednesday, May 18, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., 24.6 percent of respondents said they would like to participate, 50.6 percent said not at this time, 16.8 percent were undecided, and 8 percent had no opinion.

Again, thank you to everyone who took part in my 2011 Legislative Survey and shared their views on the important public policy issues facing New York State!

DON’T FORGET: MY “TELE-TOWN HALL” TAKES PLACE MAY 18

Please join me for an important conversation on New York’s future by taking part in my Tele-Town Hall meeting Wednesday, May 18, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. On May 18, at 6:30 p.m., you can join the conversation by calling 1-877-229-8493 and entering PIN number 17906 when prompted (your phone will be muted but you can still listen in). During the “Q&A” period, you can press “zero” on your phone to ask me a question. I hope you will join me and thousands of residents from the 129th Assembly District for this important constituent outreach event!

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Minority Conference.

Leader Kolb’s Tele-Town Hall will focus on finding real solutions and include discussion of property tax cap, unfunded mandate relief, private sector job creation, and rising gas prices

Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,I,C-Canandaigua) today invited constituents to take part in his “Tele-Town Hall” meeting on Wednesday, May 18, from 6:30-7:30 p.m., and join him for an important conversation about New York State’s future. Leader Kolb’s Tele-Town Hall is free and open to all residents of the 129th Assembly District.

A Tele-Town Hall is a constituent outreach tool allowing elected officials to speak with thousands of people simultaneously during an interactive telephone conference call for a discussion in real time. Just like traditional Town Hall meetings, Tele-Town Hall participants will be able to ask Leader Kolb questions and hear his responses. Ontario County Treasurer Gary Baxter will serve as moderator of Leader Kolb’s Tele-Town Hall.

Additionally, individuals taking part in Leader Kolb’s Tele-Town Hall will have an opportunity to participate in three short “opinion polls” that will seek their views on issues of public policy and state government.

“In this tough economy, with the price of gas, food and just about everything else going through the roof, families are working longer hours than ever before. Busy schedules make it very difficult for folks to find the time to attend a typical Town Hall meeting,” Leader Kolb said.

“That’s why, instead of asking constituents to travel to one of my Town Hall meetings, I’m bringing my Town Hall meeting to them. My Tele-Town Hall on May 18 is a great way for me to hear from, and speak with, thousands of constituents and discuss important issues like enacting the property tax cap, growing private sector jobs and delivering relief for motorists from soaring gas prices. All of these topics will be part of our conversation,” Leader Kolb stated.

Residents of the 129th Assembly District can participate in Leader Kolb’s Tele-Town Hall on May 18 by following these easy, step-by-step instructions:

a.. Starting at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 18, individuals can connect to Leader Kolb’s Tele-Town Hall by calling 1-877-229-8493 and entering the PIN number 17906 when prompted;

a.. Callers’ phones will be muted, but they can still listen in;

a.. During the question and answer period, callers can press “zero” on their telephone if they would like to ask Leader Kolb a question about public policy or state government;

a.. Callers who want to ask a question will then enter a line-up and be informed when it is time to pose their question; and

a.. When the Tele-Town Hall meeting is over, individuals simply need to hang up to conclude the call.

Leader Kolb’s upcoming Tele-Town Hall meeting will mark his second time using the innovative constituent outreach tool to stay in close contact with residents. Back in the spring of 2009, Leader Kolb held his very first Tele-Town Hall for the 129th District. The event was a huge success and, at the call’s peak, several thousand local constituents took part in a live conversation with Leader Kolb.

“While this year saw an on-time State Budget – the first time in a long time that it’s happened – Albany shouldn’t be popping any champagne corks. Homeowners are still waiting for a property tax cap, local governments and school districts are still waiting for unfunded mandate relief, unemployed New Yorkers are still waiting for jobs, and motorists are still waiting for Albany to do something about soaring gas prices,” Leader Kolb said.

“The purpose of my Tele-Town Hall is to hear directly from residents on these issues and have a conversation about how we can best move New York forward. I hope constituents will save the date and time – Wednesday, May 18, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. – and join me for what promises to be an exciting and informative dialog,” Leader Kolb concluded.

“After 114 days of working for government, New Yorkers can finally begin working for themselves. This year, New York State’s ‘Tax Freedom Day’ – the day when individuals have finally earned enough to pay off their annual total tax bill – fell on April 24, some 12 days after national Tax Freedom Day, which was back on April 12. Ask any business owner and they will tell you: New York State’s crushing high taxes hurt the bottom line and cost jobs.

New York is still one of America’s highest-taxed states – unless we take concrete steps to reduce the cumulative burden of our property, individual income, corporate, gasoline and sales taxes, the engine of private sector job creation will remain stuck in neutral. It is not nearly enough to defeat schemes like an extension of the ‘Success Tax,’ or for the State Budget to merely hold the line on further tax hikes. We need to cut taxes and deliver the type of real tax relief that will jumpstart our economy, grow private sector jobs and put folks back to work.”

NEW YORK STATE TAX FACTS

Facts from the non-partisan, independent Tax Foundation website: www.taxfoundation.org/research/topic/46.html

NEW YORK’S STATE AND LOCAL TAX BURDEN SECOND-HIGHEST IN NATION

During the past three decades, New York’s state and local tax burden percentage has ranked among the nation’s highest, currently estimated at 12.1 percent of income (2nd nationally), above the current national average of 9.8 percent. Compared to the 1977 data, New York had a rate of 13.2 percent (1st nationally), decreasing 1.1 percent overall. Currently residents pay $6,157 per capita in state and local taxes.

NEW YORK PROPERTY TAXES AMONG NATION’S HIGHEST

New York’s local governments collected $1,890.70 per capita in property taxes during fiscal year 2006, which is the latest year the Census Bureau published state-by-state property tax collections. New York is one of the 13 states that collect no state-level property taxes. Its per capita property tax collections in FY2006 ranked 5th nationally.

NEW YORK’S 2011 BUSINESS TAX CLIMATE RANKS 50th (DEAD LAST)

New York ranks 50th – dead last – in the Tax Foundation’s “State Business Tax Climate Index.” The Index compares the states in five areas of taxation that impact business: corporate taxes; individual income taxes; sales taxes; unemployment insurance taxes; and taxes on property, including residential and commercial property. Neighboring states ranked as follows: Pennsylvania (26th), New Jersey (48th), Connecticut (47th), and Vermont (38th).

NEW YORK’S INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX RATE NATION’S 8th HIGHEST

New York’s personal income tax system consists of seven brackets with a top rate of 8.97 percent, kicking in at an income level of $500,000. Among states levying personal income taxes, this top rate ranks the state 8th highest nationally. New York’s 2008 state-level individual income tax collections were $1,880 per person, which ranked 3rd highest in the nation.

NEW YORK’S CORPORATE INCOME TAX RATE NATION’S 24th HIGHEST

New York’s corporate tax structure is composed of a flat rate of 7.1 percent on all corporate income. Among states levying corporate income taxes, New York’s rate ranks 24th highest. In 2008, state-level corporate tax collections (excluding local taxes) were $259 per capita and ranked 8th highest nationally.

NEW YORK SALES AND EXCISE TAXES SOME OF AMERICA’S HIGHEST

New York levies a 4 percent general sales or use tax on consumers, below the national median of 5.85 percent. However, the state permits its localities to levy much higher sales taxes than other states do. In 2007 combined state and local general and selective sales tax collections were $1,677 per person, which ranks 11th highest nationally. New York’s gasoline tax stands at 44.6 cents per gallon – the highest gas tax in the nation. New York’s cigarette tax stands at $2.75 per pack of twenty – the 4th highest nationally. The sales tax was adopted in 1951, the gasoline tax in 1923 and the cigarette tax in 1941.

Editor’s Note: All of these New York State-specific tax facts and are available on the Tax Foundation’s official website: www.taxfoundation.org/research/topic/46.html.

With the 2011-12 State Budget completed, I believe the state Legislature needs to shift into overdrive so we can achieve real progress on a whole host of important unfinished business. Topping Albany’s to-do list are the following priorities: delivering a property tax cap for homeowners, providing unfunded mandate relief for local governments and school districts, strengthening ethics for state officials, and enacting comprehensive pension reform to reduce costs for taxpayers and localities.

In order to translate these priorities into substantive policies that become law, it is vitally important that I continue to hear from, and communicate with, constituents all across our 129th Assembly District. Your views and opinions will directly shape my legislative agenda for the remainder of the 2011 session. Simply put, I want to hear from you!

LET’S KEEP THE CONVERSATION GOING: PARTICIPATE IN MY UPCOMING TELE-TOWN HALL!

You are invited to be my guest and take part in a “Tele-Town Hall” that I will be conducting on Wednesday, May 18, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. This free event I am proudly sponsoring is open to all residents of the 129th Assembly District. In case you are unfamiliar, a Tele-Town Hall is essentially an interactive telephone conference call that allows me to have a live discussion with thousands of constituents that I have the privilege of representing in the State Assembly.

TAKING PART IN MY TELE-TOWN HALL IS EASY AND CONVENIENT

Between work, school, soccer practice, piano lessons, recitals, and birthday parties, mom, dad and the kids are constantly on the go – and family schedules are busier than ever. This sort of hectic pace can make it very difficult for individuals to find time to attend one of my traditional Town Halls in person. That is why Tele-Town Halls are such a helpful resource. Now, thanks to the latest in communication technology, you can use the phone to take part in a Town Hall without ever leaving the comfort and convenience of your own home!

You do not need any special equipment or some fancy phone to take part in my upcoming Tele-Town Hall. All you need is a regular telephone and an interest in joining a thoughtful conversation about our state government and the issues that matter to you and your family.

Just follow these easy instructions to take part in my upcoming Tele-Town Hall:

a.. Starting at 6:30 p.m., on Wednesday, May 18, you can connect to my Tele-Town Hall by calling 1-877-229-8493 and entering the PIN number 17906 when prompted;

a.. Your phone will be muted, but you can still listen in;

a.. During the question and answer period, you can press “zero” on your telephone if you would like to ask a question;

a.. You will then enter a line-up and be informed when it is time to pose your question; and

a.. When our Tele-Town Hall meeting is over, all you need to do is hang up – it’s that easy!

During the Tele-Town Hall, you can ask questions related to state government and public policy. Some of the many topics that we may touch on during our conversation include the unfinished business I mentioned earlier (passing the property tax cap, delivering unfunded mandate relief, strengthening ethics laws and enacting pension reform), along with other priorities such as creating more private sector jobs, and cutting bureaucratic red tape and job-destroying government regulations. However, I also will make sure there is plenty of time for you to ask questions during our Tele-Town Hall.

STAYING IN TOUCH WITH YOU IS MY TOP PRIORITY

Tele-Town Halls are part of my continued efforts to use the latest information and communication technologies to stay in constant contact with constituents. In addition to Tele-Town Halls, I also make frequent use of e-mail and Social Media resources such as Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and websites to share the latest news you can use.

My Tele-Town Hall is a terrific opportunity for you to join your friends, neighbors, and me for an important discussion about the future of New York State. So be sure to save the date and time – Wednesday, May 18, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. – and get ready to join in the conversation!

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us.

You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Minority Conference.

Of all the challenges facing New York State, none presents as clear and present a danger to our quality of life as runaway property taxes. You already know the facts: our homeowners pay the highest property taxes in America, we endure the nation’s second-highest combined state and local tax burden, and nine of the ten highest taxed counties, as a percentage of home value, in the country are located right here in upstate. Property taxes are destroying jobs, killing New York’s economic recovery and forcing thousands of homeowners to leave our state. If these combined threats do not constitute a crisis, I am unsure what does. The good news? There is a real solution to this crisis. The solution is the cap.

CAP PROPERTY TAXES, GIVE HOMEOWNERS REAL RELIEF

The first step toward ending New York’s property tax crisis is capping the future growth of these levies. This means getting a real property tax cap on the books, just as I have called for the past several years. Going all the way back to 2007, I have sponsored various property tax cap and property tax relief bills, including the “New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act,” presently Assembly Bill A.3897-B. This initiative provides real property tax relief and limits the burden on homeowners and businesses by capping property tax increases at two percent or the rate of inflation – whichever is lower.

Equally important, the legislation I have championed includes significant unfunded mandate relief for local governments and school districts, an issue that I have been calling attention to well before the current session was underway. The bill I sponsored would relieve school districts of costly paperwork requirements; reduce County Medicaid costs; strengthen financial accountability over school tax dollars and promote local government efficiency.

STANDING UP FOR PROPERTY TAX RELIEF

Sponsoring a property tax cap bill such as the New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act is a good start, but, by itself, will not solve the crisis of rising property taxes. Legislators need to stand up, speak out and make change happen. This is exactly what I did last week when I called on the Assembly Majority to step up to the plate and finally pass the property tax cap.

I was not alone, as Senate Republicans – who passed Governor Cuomo’s property tax cap bill back on January 31 – and organizations supporting the cap also pressed for action. Unshackle Upstate, the National Federation of Independent Business, the New York State Association of Realtors, the Business Council of New York State, and numerous local Chambers of Commerce all joined me in advocating for the property tax cap.

MAJORITY OF NEW YORKERS SUPPORT THE PROPERTY TAX CAP

Statewide public opinion polls have shown that an overwhelming majority of New York homeowners strongly support a property tax cap and believe it belongs at the very top of Albany’s to-do list. In fact, according to a recent poll taken by Long Island’s Quinnipiac University Polling Institute, enacting the property tax cap is a top priority for New York voters with the cap favored by a margin of 79-17 percent.

As this and other poll results clearly demonstrate, the “silent majority” of overtaxed New York homeowners and businesses will be silent no more. People are raising their voices in support of the property tax cap. Their message to Albany and the Assembly Majority is clear: No more excuses. No more delays. No more stall tactics. Pass the property tax cap now!

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Minority Conference.

Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb (R,I,C-Canandaigua) is pictured (center, speaking at podium) during this afternoon’s property tax cap press conference in Albany. Standing to Leader Kolb’s right, is Heather Briccetti, Acting President and CEO of the Business Council of New York State, Inc. Pictured to Leader Kolb’s left, are Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos and Senator John Flanagan (R-C-I, East Northport), Chairman of the Senate Education Committee.

“The case for capping property taxes is open and shut: New York homeowners pay the nation’s highest property taxes, our combined state and local tax burden is America’s second highest, and nine of the ten highest property taxed counties in the nation as a percentage of home value are located in upstate. This afternoon, I partnered with Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos, Members of our respective Conferences, along with pro-business and pro-taxpayer groups to urge the Assembly Majority to join us and enact the tax cap to give homeowners real relief.”

“Over the past several days, the Speaker has publicly said that rent control and a property tax cap were ‘philosophically the same thing.’ Our Conference agrees, which is why we offered Governor Cuomo’s property tax cap bill as an amendment to the rent control legislation the Assembly Majority brought to the floor. Since 2007, Members of our Conference have been pushing a real property tax cap – the ‘New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act’ – that includes significant unfunded mandate relief for school districts and County governments. Today’s vote on our amendment – which is the Governor’s property tax cap bill – was a golden opportunity for all New Yorkers to see who actually supports Governor Cuomo’s property tax relief and who doesn’t.”

New York State has a budget – now the real work begins.

In the very early morning hours of Thursday, March 31, the State Assembly passed the first on-time State Budget in several years. The enacted 2011-12 State Budget was by no means a perfect spending plan, but a realistic and necessary one. This year’s budget provided a dose of fiscal reality and a much-needed financial wake-up call for a state government that has taxed too much, spent too much, borrowed too much and reformed too little.

BUDGET CONTAINED TOUGH, PAINFUL CHOICES

Make no mistake: the budget involved many tough choices that will begin a long overdue – and sometimes painful – process of reducing spending, rightsizing state government and reforming Albany’s culture of tax-and-spend. Simply put, we have a budget that will require state government to live within its means, just as millions of hard-working New York families and businesses have done, and continue to do. While this budget is not the final word on the matter, it represents an important beginning of what must be an ongoing conversation on the need to change how Albany does the people’s business.

IMPORTANT VICTORIES FOR NEW YORK: DEFEAT OF THE “SUCCESS TAX,” CLOSURE OF $10 BILLION BUDGET DEFICIT, EXTENSION OF POWER FOR JOBS

The spending plan contained several important victories for taxpayers, including the defeat of an attempted extension of the job-destroying “Success Tax,” closure of the state’s massive $10 billion budget deficit, enactment of the Power for Jobs program to help retain and create jobs, decreased government spending, along with no new borrowing or tax increases.

Equally important, the budget caps the future growth of costly programs like Medicaid, which threaten to drive many local governments to the brink of bankruptcy. The spending plan also authorized the merger and consolidation of State Agencies that have overlapping functions. Both of these necessary structural reforms will reduce the cost of government – and costs to taxpayers.

None of the aforementioned victories happened by accident. They are specific public policy priorities that our Assembly Minority Conference has long fought for – not just during this year’s budget cycle, but in prior years as well. Our
Conference is glad that Governor Cuomo listened. We are always happy to share our playbook for a better New York!

MUCH UNFINISHED BUSINESS

The fact that we were able to pass an on-time budget during these especially challenging economic times offers a glimmer of hope that real change is possible, even in Albany. Moving forward, we must apply this same non-partisan approach to addressing all of the unfinished business that, unfortunately, was not included as part of the State Budget. Some of that unfinished business includes:

a.. Delivering Unfunded Mandate Relief: Deliver relief from Albany’s unfunded mandates – the rules, regulations and red tape imposed by state government – that are the major cost drivers for local governments and school districts;

a.. Reducing Property Taxes: New York homeowners still pay some of the nation’s highest property taxes, we must provide real property tax relief for overtaxed families;

a.. Growing the Economy: Getting nearly 800,000 unemployed New Yorkers back to work must be a top priority, the best way to do so is by reducing our state’s high cost of doing business and becoming more economically competitive with the 49 other states;

a.. Shrinking Government’s Impact on the Private Sector: Streamlining job-killing regulations and cutting government red tape are essential to fostering an economic climate where private sector jobs can grow;

a.. Cleaning Up Albany: Passing comprehensive ethics reform will clean-up Albany’s culture of corruption, restore public confidence and end the embarrassment of pay-to-play scandals that have cast a dark cloud over state government;

a.. Providing More Value to Taxpayers: While the budget reduced government spending, we must provide more value to taxpayers by cracking down on government waste, fraud and abuse which will further reduce government’s cost to taxpayers; and

a.. Enacting Pension Reform: Public pension obligations total in the billions for state and local governments. We must defuse New York’s public pension time bomb by enacting common sense fiscal reforms to control the growth of these costs.

SMALL STEPS TAKEN TOWARD A LONG JOURNEY

Timely passage of the 2011-12 State Budget was just the beginning of a series of steps that must happen before we can truly claim a new day has dawned for New York State. Our taxes, price of government, and cost of doing business are still some of America’s highest. State government is still too big and bureaucratic. There are far too many of our fellow citizens out of work, hurting and in need of help. Now isn’t the time for endless self-congratulations in Albany – now is the time to get back to work. Today, the real work begins for the New York State we deserve.

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Minority Conference.

“The power to tax involves the power to destroy.” This quote, attributed to U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Marshall, dates all the way back to 1819, yet it still rings true some 192 years later. Government’s ability to tax is, without question, a destructive power, nowhere more so than right here in New York State where families, homeowners and companies pay some of America’s highest property, income, business and sales taxes. All those taxes have damaged our economy and destroyed countless jobs.

EFFORT TO EXTEND THE “SUCCESS TAX” SENDS THE WRONG MESSAGE

While this weekly column is being written, there is a not-so-secret effort underway in Albany to try to extend the “Success Tax,” a government surcharge imposed on some of the most successful New Yorkers that was slated to expire (or, in Albany-speak, “sunset”) at the end of 2011. This Success Surcharge is imposed on households and small businesses making over $200,000 annually. Certain politicians in Albany are so unwilling to cut wasteful spending and right-size government that they are teaming up with special interests who want to see this Success Tax stay on the books. If they “win,” New York loses: loses more jobs, more opportunities, and more of our best and brightest.

SUCCESS TAX LATEST IN A LONG LINE OF ALBANY’S BROKEN PROMISES

When the Success Tax was first enacted as part of the 2009-10 State Budget, certain Albany politicians sold this snake oil to the public as a “temporary revenue enhancer” and promised it would be in effect only until the end of 2011. This sales job was just the latest in a long line of Albany con jobs where the politicians continually promise that any new taxes, fees and surcharges are always “temporary,” much like the pyramids were temporary. Here we are several months away from when the Success Tax was supposed to expire, and, like clockwork, Albany is trying to go back on its word.

I opposed the Success Tax from the beginning because it would hurt our economy, cost New Yorkers jobs and, once it became law, be harder to get rid of than Thanksgiving leftovers. All of these things have, regrettably, come to pass. An extension of the Success Tax could drive away more jobs and actually drive up unemployment. With more than 800,000 unemployed New Yorkers – and tens of thousands more that have given up looking for work in this brutal job market – expanding the ranks of the jobless is the last thing our state needs.

WHEN TAXES GO UP, SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE GO AWAY

An obvious fact that Success Tax backers don’t seem to understand – or conveniently forget – is that money, talent and resources are not “locked” into any one state or region. Instead, they are highly mobile, transferable and fluid – people and companies can set up shop anywhere. Having spent most of my adult life working and running successful companies in the private sector, I know that employers, entrepreneurs and successful people will go wherever taxes and the cost of doing business is lowest. When schemes like the Success Tax drive successful New Yorkers away, state government doesn’t gain revenue, it loses it.

Case in point: former New York resident and billionaire businessman Tom Golisano moved to Florida – which has no state income tax – in 2009. He left New York largely due to its ever-increasing tax burden and the Success Tax was the final straw. Golisano’s departure meant New York has lost nearly $13,800 per day since he is no longer paying all those state income taxes. That revenue is gone, forever – talk about government cooking the proverbial golden goose!

SUCCESS TAXES DIDN’T WORK IN OREGON OR MARYLAND

Of course, New York is not the only state to prove that high taxes drive away successful people. Backers of the Success Tax should read a Wall Street Journal article from Dec 21, 2010 titled “Ducking Higher Taxes: Oregon’s vanishing millionaires.” The piece reported that Oregon collected one-third less revenue than had been anticipated from its imposition of a Success Tax – and saw one-quarter of these filers go missing. Maryland had a similar experience with the Success Tax it enacted in 2008, as one-third of that state’s millionaire households disappeared from the tax rolls after rates increased. Lost revenue, lost residents, lost jobs, lost opportunities: this is the true legacy of the Success Tax. Don’t take my word for it: visit the National Center for Policy Analysis – www.ncpa.org – and enter the keywords “Ducking Higher Taxes” to search for an on-line copy of the Wall Street Journal article. Read it and weep.

NY HAS A SPENDING PROBLEM, NOT A REVENUE PROBLEM

No matter what you hear from certain “the sky is falling” Albany politicians, state government does not have a revenue problem. In fact, revenues have steadily increased by nearly 70 percent over the past decade – and last year’s budget actually spent more than the previous year. Does that sound like a revenue problem? The real problem is that Albany’s broken status quo – the same politicians and special interest groups currently plotting to extend the Success Tax- are addicted to spending more of your hard-earned money.

The backroom effort to try keeping a Success Tax on the books should remind every taxpayer that whenever the tax-and-spend crowd in Albany says a tax is only “temporary,” they had better start guarding their wallets. I will continue working to expose this latest Albany scheme to extend the Success Tax. While “nothing may succeed like success,” nothing would destroy more jobs and opportunities for all New Yorkers like extending the Success Tax.

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Republican Conference.

Serving as your voice in our State Assembly is an honor, privilege and responsibility I take very seriously. One of my top priorities as your Assembly representative is listening to and learning more about the issues affecting you and your family. In order to accomplish this goal, I am once again issuing an official Legislative Survey seeking your views and opinions to help shape my 2011 Legislative Agenda. My Legislative Survey contains 12 questions and will take just a few minutes to complete.

This year, in addition to arriving soon in local mailboxes, this Legislative Survey is also available on my official Facebook page and provided in its entirety in this week’s column. Below each of the 12 questions is a series of “Response Options” to choose from. You can clip out and mail back this column, along with your responses, to my district office at 607 West Washington Street, Suite 2, Geneva, NY 14456, or fax it to me at (315) 781-1746. You can also e-mail me your responses at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us or contact my office and request that a copy of my 2011 Legislative Survey be e-mailed directly to you.

Thank you in advance for taking part in my 2011 Legislative Survey and letting me know your opinions on the important public policies the Assembly will consider this year. A future column will provide the aggregated survey results. I look forward to hearing from you!

QUESTION 1: IS NEW YORK STATE ON THE RIGHT TRACK?

Do you feel as if things in New York State are headed in the right direction or are they on the wrong track? Response Options: Right direction or Wrong track.

QUESTION 2: HAS THE RECESSION ENDED?

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “The recession in New York has ended and our economy is finally growing again.” Response Options: Agree or Disagree.

QUESTION 3: DID THE RECESSION AFFECT YOU?

Have you, or has someone you know, been laid off from a job in the past year? Response Options: Yes or No.

QUESTION 4: 2011-12 STATE BUDGET

Governor Andrew Cuomo’s 2011-12 Executive Budget contains “savings targets” for State Agencies that, if unrealized, could ultimately result in up to 9,800 state workers being laid off unless public employee unions make concessions. Would you favor such a reduction in the state workforce to help close New York’s projected $10 billion budget deficit? Response Options: Yes; Yes, but with less than 9,800 layoffs; No, find the savings somewhere else; or Undecided – send me more information on this topic.

QUESTION 5: CLOSING NEW YORK’S $10 BILLION BUDGET DEFICIT

As mentioned above, New York State faces a projected $10 billion budget deficit. What do you think are the best ways to close this multi-billion dollar shortfall? Response Options (Circle all that apply): Consolidate and merge State Agencies with overlapping functions, Reduce spending on education, Cut State Agency budgets by 10%, Reduce Medicaid services, Offer incentives to public employees for early retirement, Institute a hiring and wage freeze for public employees, Collect sales taxes from cigarettes and gasoline sold on Native American lands to non-Native American Indians, Increase borrowing, or Raise taxes.

QUESTION 6: PROPERTY TAX CAP

A property tax cap would restrict the rate of growth of local property tax increases, but place greater burdens on local governments and school districts by limiting their funding – unless the tax cap included relief from Albany’s rules, regulations, red tape and government mandates. Knowing this, which statement best describes your feelings on a property tax cap? Response Options: I favor a property tax cap that includes mandate relief, I favor a property tax cap, I oppose a property tax cap, or Undecided – send me more information on this topic.

QUESTION 7: “PEOPLE’S CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION”

Since New York State’s founding, several Constitutional Conventions have been convened to make necessary changes and reforms to our state government. Do you support holding a non-partisan, grassroots “People’s Constitutional Convention” to deliver positive change and fix our broken state government? A People’s Convention would move up the opportunity for real reform up six years and prevent elected officials and political party bosses from serving in such a convention. Response Options: Strongly favor, Somewhat favor, Somewhat oppose, Strongly oppose, or Undecided – send me more information on this topic.

QUESTION 8: REDISTRICTING PROCESS

In 2012, the boundaries for State Assembly and State Senate districts will be re-drawn. The current process is dominated by the Majorities in both houses and used to protect their political power – even it means your voice in Albany is diminished. Do you favor taking this process out of the hands of the State Legislature by establishing an independent Legislative Redistricting Commission that would redraw districts without regard to political party? Response Options: Strongly favor, Somewhat favor, Somewhat oppose, Strongly oppose, or Undecided – send me more information on this topic.

QUESTION 9: ETHICS & GOVERNMENT REFORM

For years, state government – and Albany in particular – have been plagued by a “culture of corruption” and a series of embarrassing “pay-to-play scandals” where insiders, special interests and lobbyists have traded campaign donations for government favors. What do you support as the best way to enact meaningful reform and clean up state government? Response Options (circle all that apply): Term limits for legislators, Term limits for Legislative Leaders, Campaign finance reform, Comprehensive ethics reform, Public disclosure of all outside income earned by legislators, or Convening a “People’s Constitutional Convention.”

QUESTION 10: SAME SEX MARRIAGE

Do you favor allowing same-sex couples in New York State the legal right to marry, or do you believe that the institution of marriage should remain solely between a man and a woman? Response Options: Support same-sex marriage; Oppose same sex marriage; Favor a different approach, such as civil unions; or Undecided.

QUESTION 11: HYDRO-FRACKING

New York State is home to an abundant supply of clean natural gas reserves that could be accessed through a process of hydraulic fracturing, also referred to as “hyrdro-fracking.” Supporters of accessing this energy supply believe that, with careful oversight from the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), tapping our natural gas reserves this will create thousands of good-paying jobs and generate billions for New York’s economy. Opponents cite safety concerns and the potential of groundwater contamination. Where do you stand? Response Options: I support this type of energy exploration – New York needs more jobs, I oppose such an effort – the environmental risks are too great, or Undecided – send me more information on this topic.

QUESTION 12: “TELE-TOWN HALL”

One of my top priorities as your Assemblyman is staying in close contact and hearing what matters to you. A new way to stay connected is through a “Tele-Town Hall,” which is a telephone conference call that allows citizens to actively participate in a live discussion and pose questions. Tele-Town Halls are useful because they allow more people to contribute than a traditional Town Hall meeting. I plan to conduct a Tele-Town Hall Meeting for constituents in the Spring – would you be interested in participating? If so, please be sure to include your e-mail address. Response Options: Yes, I would like to participate in your Tele-Town Hall Meeting in the Spring, Not at this time, or Undecided – send me more information on your Tele-Town Hall.

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Republican Conference.

“New York’s property tax crisis is crippling our economy and hurting homeowners, businesses and farmers – it’s time for the Assembly Democrats to finally bring a property tax cap bill to the floor and hold a vote. No more delays, stall tactics or Albany games – it’s time for a vote. I am calling for an immediate vote on a property tax cap and urging Governor Cuomo to call on Speaker Silver to bring the property tax cap to the floor. Assembly Republicans introduced a property tax cap bill years ago and we are prepared to vote today. Capping property taxes is just the first step; the next step is delivering real cost relief from Albany’s unfunded mandates for local governments and school districts.”

Last Monday, I was invited to address the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) during their annual gathering in Albany. Having previously served in local government, and as the only Legislative Leader in state government who is talking about the urgent need for unfunded mandate relief, I was honored to again speak with friends at NYSAC.

My comments were a call to action for localities suffering under Albany’s oppressive rules, regulations and red tape, along with their budget-busting price tag. Unfunded mandates occur whenever state government imposes rules that force local governments – a city, county, town, village or school district – to do something without providing any funding to pay for it. There aren’t just “a few” of these rules, regulations and red tape – there are literally hundreds, if not thousands, here in the Empire State. Unfunded mandates include everything from asbestos management, school district paperwork, safety inspections, construction projects and just about every government program, policy and requirement you can think of – and even some you haven’t!

UNFUNDED MANDATES FROM ALBANY ARE DRIVING LOCAL GOVERNMENTS TOWARD BANKRUPTCY – AND DRIVING UP PROPERTY TAXES

While some of those obligated services may stem from “good intentions,” they have nonetheless driven countless local governments and school districts to the verge of bankruptcy. City, county, town and village governments, to say nothing of local school districts, simply cannot afford to continue taking marching orders from the same folks in Albany who gave our state its $10 billion budget deficit. Unfunded mandates from Albany strain local budgets and lead to higher property taxes for local homeowners. Statistics prove this point:

Ø New York has the highest local taxes in America as a percentage of personal income – 79 percent above the national average;

Ø New York has the second highest combined state and local taxes in the nation;

Ø Median property taxes paid by New Yorkers are 96 percent above the national median;

Ø Property tax levies in New York grew by 73 percent from 1998 to 2008, more than twice the rate of inflation during that period;

Ø When measured in absolute dollars paid, Westchester, Nassau, and Rockland are respectively the first, second and fifth highest-taxed counties in America; and

Ø When property taxes were measured as a percentage of home value in 2009, nine out of the top ten counties in the nation were all located in Upstate New York.

U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: FEDERAL REGULATIONS COST BUSINESSES $1.75 TRILLION

As costly, confusing and cumbersome as Albany’s unfunded mandates are, businesses operating in New York have it twice as bad; they must navigate another sticky web of complicated rules, regulations and red tape at the federal level. This regulatory web makes it even harder for companies to invest in their workforce and grow their operations. Thomas J. Donohue, President and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, wrote that the Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy has put the total price tag of complying with federal regulations at $1.75 trillion for 2008 (keep in mind that this was before the federal stimulus package or the new federal health care mandate). Folks, a trillion is a number with 12 zeroes behind it!

RULES, RULES AND MORE RULES

According to the Chamber, government compliance costs average out to approximately $15,500 for every American household. Also in 2008, the average regulatory cost to businesses was nearly $8,100 per employee and expenses are 36 percent higher for small businesses, which create 60 percent to 80 percent of all new jobs. Donohue also cited the Environmental Protection Agency’s advancing 29 proposed major rules (and 173 others); the federal heath care law’s creation of 183 new agencies, commissions, panels and other bodies; and the 2,400-page financial regulatory “reform” bill, which included almost 500 regulatory rule-makings, 60 studies and 93 reports.

Here’s my question: how in the heck are private sector businesses – especially those operating here in New York State, where the cost of government is among the nation’s highest – supposed to have the time and money to fill out all this paperwork, comply with all these government rules and still remain in business? It would take a miracle.

ENOUGH TO GOVERNMENT’S REGULATORY MADNESS!

Local governments, taxpayers and businesses have had enough of this regulatory madness! They refuse to continue being saddled with every whim, every program, every desire that politicians in Albany, N.Y., or Washington D.C., feel like imposing without any consideration of costs. I couldn’t agree more, which is why I’m advancing a legislative agenda that would ban new unfunded mandates from Albany and temporarily suspend existing unfunded mandates. I also support the federal government moving forward with a top-to-bottom review of all rules and regulations impacting businesses.

Our economy is so complex, and competition from countries like China and India is so intense, we can’t afford government’s costly and job-destroying over-regulation. New York State, and the United States of America, are competing in a global economy. It’s time that government at all levels stopped hurting and started helping.

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Republican Conference.

Year after year, increasing property taxes drive thousands of New York
families out of their homes and out of our state. Our homeowners endure the
nation’s second-highest combined state and local tax burden and, as if that
weren’t bad enough, nine of the ten highest property taxed counties in
America – as a percentage of median home value – are located right here in
upstate. Clearly, rising property taxes are a bad problem that is getting
worse.

ALBANY PASSES THE BUCK ONTO LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

School districts and local governments provide essential services to their
communities, but are often forced to raise taxes because of one thing they
cannot control: unfunded mandates from Albany. In case you are wondering
what exactly an “unfunded mandate” is, you are not alone. Basically, the
term unfunded mandate is “Albany-speak” for whenever state government
mandates (i.e., forces) that local governments do something – expand a
program, offer a new service – but does not provide any funding for them to
do so. This perpetual passing of the buck from Albany onto cities,
counties, towns, villages and school districts has forced many to raise
local property taxes to make up the shortfall.

MEDICAID: “THE GODZILLA” OF MANDATES

While a complete list of Albany mandates could easily fill several of my
weekly columns, the “Godzilla” of all mandates is, without question,
Medicaid. For readers old enough to remember the days of monster movies,
the creature Godzilla was known as “King of the Monsters” (no offense to
King Kong). That is why I refer to New York’s Medicaid program as Godzilla,
since it is “King of the Mandates.”

Medicaid is a government program created in 1965 that helps provide health
care coverage for low income and impoverished individuals. Not to be
confused with Medicare – the federally administered health insurance program
that helps senior citizens – Medicaid is a joint federal-state-local program
that has regrettably developed into a real budget buster for New York.

MEDICAID COSTS HAVE SKYROCKETED

Medicaid’s costs in New York have skyrocketed over the past decade and
become one of the largest cost-drivers for state and local government
budgets.

Just how steep of a financial toll does Medicaid impose? Try this on for
size: New York’s Medicaid spending per enrollee is America’s second
highest – a whopping 73 percent above average – and Medicaid costs alone
account for more than half of the entire county tax levy. If those facts
left you unconvinced, check out these additional statistics regarding
Medicaid costs, provided by the independent, non-partisan Empire Center for
New York State Policy based on the most recent data:

a.. With 6.4 percent of the nation’s population and 8.7 percent of all
Medicaid enrollment, New York accounted for 14 percent of all Medicaid
spending;
b.. New York’s $44 billion Medicaid program, including the local
government share, was larger than the total budgets of 42 states;
c.. New York spent 25 percent more than California, whose Medicaid program
covered twice as many people; and
d.. New York’s federal, state and local Medicaid spending exceeded the
Medicaid budgets of Florida, Texas and North Carolina – combined.

I believe it’s time Albany stopped talking about controlling mandates like
Medicaid and actually did something to solve the problem. Yes, we need to
reduce Medicaid’s cost to the taxpayer, but we also need to restructure,
reform and redesign the program. Merely saying “cut, cut, cut” will not
solve Medicaid’s long-term structural imbalances – and neither will nibbling
around the edges of reform. We need to fundamentally transform this
program, which is why I pushed for removing a state mandate from local
governments so they could decide which optional Medicaid services to
provide. If enacted, this reform would have provided an estimated $1
billion in cost savings for taxpayers.

MEDICAID REDESIGN TEAM: IT’S ABOUT TIME!

I support Governor Cuomo making this issue a top priority, as he did during
his recent State of the State Address. I was also pleased to recommend my
colleague, Assemblyman Joe Giglio from Western New York, to serve on the
newly formed “Medicaid Redesign Team.” The Team has been charged with the
responsibility of finding ways to save money within the Medicaid program for
the upcoming 2011-12 State Budget and reverse years of overspending and
waste that have occurred within the program. The Team will submit its first
report with findings and recommendations to the Governor by March 1 for
consideration as part of this year’s budget process. I will be sure to
share the Team’s findings with you.

The announcement of the Medicaid Redesign Team was a good first step toward
a much-needed – and long overdue – rightsizing of this budget-busting
program that will help us tame the Medicaid monster. “Godzilla” – a.k.a.,
New York’s Medicaid program – may be a fictional creature in the movies, but
its financial impact on taxpayers and local governments has been all too
real.

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic, or any other
state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or
e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook
and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state
government and our Assembly Republican Conference.

In my legislative column last week, I shared some findings from the Tax Foundation pointing to upstate being home to nine of the ten highest property taxed counties in America, measured as a percentage of median home value. To folks who call upstate home, this was hardly news. We already knew our homeowners and businesses pay some of the nation’s highest property, income and business taxes, as well as energy, workers’ comp, transportation and regulatory costs. We recognize what the problems are – what we need, what we want, are real solutions and leaders willing to stand up and fight for them.

LEADING THE FIGHT BECAUSE UPSTATE IS MY HOME TOO

As the only Legislative Leader in New York State government who lives in, works in, and represents upstate, this is exactly what I have done, both as an Assemblyman for the 129th District and as Leader of the Assembly Republican Conference. Without question, this fight is very personal to me. Upstate is not some distant region on a map – it’s my home, the place where I chose to raise my family, start and run a business. The fight has not been easy: there is an army of deep-pocketed, entrenched special interests and downstate politicians wanting to keep Albany’s broken status quo, even at the expense of another upstate family forced to leave or another upstate business forced to close its doors.

In this fight, every victory is an important step forward. That is why I was honored to receive Unshackle Upstate’s endorsement in recognition of my strong and consistent pro-business, pro-taxpayer voting record, both as Assemblyman and as one of the four Legislative Leaders in state government.

UNSHACKLE UPSTATE RECOGNIZES MY PRO-TAXPAYER, PRO-BUSINESS VOTING RECORD

Unshackle Upstate is a growing, bipartisan coalition of over 80 business and trade organizations representing upwards of 70,000 companies and employing more than 1.5 million people dedicated to changing the way state government treats taxpayers and private sector businesses. It was heartening to receive this endorsement and again be recognized for my voting record in support of lower taxes, less spending, rebuilding our economy and creating a better business climate. Out of 212 state legislators and many candidates for Assembly and Senate, I was one of only 24 who received Unshackle Upstate’s formal endorsement for re-election and was the only Legislative Leader to be named.

WHAT’S THE SCORE? 97 OUT OF 100

Unshackle Upstate’s endorsements were based on information gathered during an extensive process that combined its 2010 Legislative Scorecards, candidate questionnaire responses, in-person interviews and input from business leaders across the upstate region. Back in September, I received a score of “97” – out of 100 – on that scorecard, which measured the official voting records of Legislative Leaders and the 208 other state legislators. I was especially proud that my 97 was the highest score any Legislative Leader in state government received this year from Unshackle Upstate!

OTHER PRO-BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS ALSO WEIGH-IN

Unshackle Upstate’s endorsement was the latest in a series of credible third-party confirmations coming from outside of Albany demonstrating that I am standing up for taxpayers, leading the fight for a better economy and serving as a tireless advocate for growing New York’s private sector.

In addition to the endorsement I received from Unshackle Upstate, my fiscally conservative, pro-jobs Assembly voting record has been recognized by some of New York’s most influential business advocacy groups. Those groups include the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the Committee for a Strong Economy PAC (the Political Action Committee of the Rochester Business Alliance) and the Business Council of New York State, Inc. I want to thank the membership of each of these non-partisan, independent organizations for recognizing my efforts to advance public policies that will rebuild, revitalize and renew New York’s economy, especially upstate.

A BATTLE FOR THE HEART & SOUL OF UPSTATE

I believe that the fight for a stronger economy and more prosperity is nothing short of a battle for the heart and soul of upstate. Folks, this is one fight we cannot afford to lose. We must enact a property tax cap, ban unfunded mandates, cap and cut government spending, lower energy costs and develop a statewide economic development plan that focuses on private sector job creation. Every one of these issues is worthy of a vote in the State Assembly prior to Election Day so voters can see who actually “walks the walk” when it comes to fixing upstate.

If you care about upstate and want our community to become the less costly, more affordable place we all want it to be, then get on the field and get in the game! Let your elected officials at the federal, state and local levels know that when it comes to growing New York’s economy, reining in government spending and providing real tax relief for homeowners and businesses, upstate won’t wait!

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Republican Conference.

Without question, Upstate New York is truly a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family. From sports, recreation and cultural activities, to scenic attractions and small town charm, you name it, upstate has it. Unfortunately, upstate also has property taxes. Not just any property taxes, but some of the highest in America. In fact, according to an analysis of Census Bureau data conducted by the independent, non-partisan Tax Foundation, upstate is home to nine of the ten highest-property taxed counties in America.

UPSTATE IS HOME TO 9 OUT OF 10 OF AMERICA’S HIGHEST TAXED COUNTIES

The Tax Foundation analysis reviewed 792 counties with populations of at least 65,000 people. Based on that review, it listed nine upstate counties as having the nation’s highest property taxes as a percentage of median home value. The counties are: Monroe, Niagara, Wayne, Chemung, Chautauqua, Erie, Onondaga, Steuben and Madison – the tenth County was located in Camden, New Jersey. The Tax Foundation also reported that New York was home to the top two highest taxed counties – Westchester and Nassau, respectively – in the nation.

These findings echo facts released by the State Comptroller’s Office showing school property tax levies had grown by nearly $13 billion, or 84 percent, from 2000 to 2009. Additionally, the New York Property Tax Cap Coalition has indicated that our state’s local taxes are the highest in America, approximately 79 percent above the national average. Equally worrisome, property tax levies across New York are reportedly rising at more than twice the rate of inflation and salary growth. Do not take my word for it – visit the coalition’s website at www.taxcapnow.org and see for yourself.

There is no doubt that upstate’s high property taxes have dramatically driven up the cost of owning a home. They are also threatening to put the American Dream out of reach for an entire generation of New Yorkers. High property taxes translate into middle class families and senior citizens having to make tough choices in this tough economy, which is why I continue pushing for real solutions that deliver real property tax relief.

83 PERCENT OF NEW YORKERS WANT A PROPERTY TAX CAP

New York State needs a real property tax cap to control the unrestrained growth of local property tax levies and provide homeowners with relief from these crushing costs. I co-sponsored the “New York State Property Taxpayers Protection Act,” Assembly Bill A.2796, which would cap property taxes at four percent or the rate of inflation, whichever is lower. Our legislation has been endorsed by 74 local communities and, according to a poll conducted for the New York State Association of Realtors, over 83 percent of homeowners strongly support enactment of a real property tax cap.

ALBANY’S ADDICTION TO SPENDING DRIVES UP PROPERTY TAXES

Over the past ten years, state spending has exploded by nearly 70 percent. If state government had held spending to the rate of inflation for that same period, taxpayers would have saved billions – and New York would be discussing how to spend its surplus rather than struggling to close its multi-billion dollar budget deficit.

As important as a property tax cap is, a cap alone will not solve New York’s property tax crisis. The root cause of property tax increases is Albany’s continued addiction to spending more of your hard-earned money. Reining in property taxes requires a serious commitment to reducing government’s size, cost and reach. This is why I introduced legislation that would cap government spending, Assembly Bill A.9061. A state spending cap and a real property tax cap go hand-in-hand – reduce government spending and you will reduce property taxes.

UNFUNDED MANDATES: A HIDDEN CAUSE OF PROPERTY TAX HIKES

An often-overlooked cause of skyrocketing property taxes is all the government regulations, red tape and requirements that Albany annually imposes on local governments. Those obligations are often referred to as “unfunded mandates,” which is when state government orders local governments to do something but fails to provide any funding for them to do it. The costs incurred by local governments are then passed directly onto local homeowners who see their property taxes rise as a consequence.

The New York State Association of Counties has reported that for some counties, up to 80 percent of their entire budget goes toward funding all the state-mandated programs that keep coming from Albany. This leaves only 20 percent of a County’s budget to provide for local programs and meet local needs. When Albany passes the buck, local taxpayers pick up the tab.

When it comes to stemming the endless tide of Albany’s unfunded mandates, half-measures will not get the job done. That is why I introduced legislation, Assembly Bill A.11258, that would place a permanent moratorium on Albany’s unfunded mandates on local governments and school districts that cost more than $10,000 annually or $1 million statewide.

IT’S TIME FOR AN UP-OR-DOWN VOTE ON A PROPERTY TAX CAP, STATE SPENDING CAP & UNFUNDED MANDATE BAN!

Capping property taxes, reducing government spending and banning Albany from imposing unfunded mandates on local governments are the real solutions needed to resolve New York’s property tax crisis. With nine of the ten counties having America’s highest property taxes located right here in upstate, it is not enough to just keep talking about the problems. We must advance real solutions to meet the challenge, which is why I continue calling for a Special Session of the Assembly so each of these initiatives can finally receive an up-or-down vote. Delivering real property tax relief is the key to preserving and protecting upstate’s special quality of life. Upstate is a great place to live – delivering real property tax relief will keep it that way.

As always, constituents wishing to discuss this topic or any other state-related matter should contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, or e-mail me at kolbb@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also follow me on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and informational updates regarding state government and our Assembly Republican Conference.