On the Issues: Taxes and Fiscal Responsibility / Protecting Our Environment
Health Care / Seniors and Veterans / Public Safety and Protecting Our Children
Preserving Our Quality of Life

On the Issues: Taxes and Fiscal Responsibility

The high cost of living, particularly high taxes in Suffolk County, has been a serious concern for all members of the community. As a homeowner himself, Steve understands this well. As a member of the Ways and Means Committee and the 2007 Budget and Finance Committee, Steve worked with County Executive Steve Levy and successfully reduced spending in the Capital Budget by $35 million, while still retaining essential infrastructure projects. Following that, he helped pass the 2007 Operating Budget which cuts the County’s General Fund Tax by 2.6 percent for Suffolk homeowners, which will not only provide relief for families, but will maintain essential services.

• Sponsored legislation to amend New York State “Real Property Tax Law for Eligible Reservists” of our Armed Forces.
• Sponsored legislation requesting New York State to provide tax credits to seniors for performing volunteer services.
• Sponsored legislation to support the repeal of “Individual Alternative Minimum Tax.”
• Co-sponsored legislation expanding volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers real property tax exemptions.
• Co-sponsored legislation to further extend first time homeowner County property tax exemption.