WNED 970 News

Comptroller Reviews Giambra Budget Proposal

Mark Leitner

BUFFALO (2007-11-01) Erie County's fiscal watchdog is out with his assessment of the 2008 Giambra budget proposal and four-year financial plan.

Comptroller Mark Poloncarz made it clear in his hour-long meeting with reporters that the next County Executive is going to have his work cut out for him. Labor contracts alone will be a major hurdle in 2008.

The Comptroller indicated the burden can be eased somewhat if County Lawmakers are scrupulous about doing a line-by-line review of the spending proposal.

"I'm recommending they take a hard look at this budget and find areas where they think they can create a more balanced growth...and realize the sales tax in a double-edged sword," Poloncarz said.

Poloncarz says it is dangerous to balance the budget on the assumption that sales tax revenue will continue to grow. He says it puts the county at the mercy of shoppers.

Comptroller Poloncarz added there is no question the next County Executive will be forced into making difficult decisions when he takes office on January 1st.