Residents of the City of Oneida could face a major property tax increase under the city’s proposed 2027 budget, raising concerns about affordability for homeowners, families, and local businesses. City Manager Kyle Lovell submitted a proposed budget on October 9 that calls for a 23% increase in the residential city property tax rate compared with the underlying 2026 budget rate. But because residents received a one-time tax credit last year, the increase compared with the rate actually billed in 2026 could be approximately 28.77%. The proposal has not yet been finalized, and the Common Council could still make changes. Why Is the Proposed Increase So High? One of the major concerns is the city’s financial reserves — money set aside to help cover expenses and unexpected costs. According to reports on the proposed budget, Oneida has been relying on reserve funds to help pay for ongoing operating expenses. City officials are now proposing a budget that no longer relies on those withdrawals to balance the General Fund. The proposed General Fund budget calls for approximately $19.77 million in spending and matching revenue. City departments reportedly requested about $21.1 million, but city management reduced those requests by approximately $1.34 million before presenting the proposal. The question now is whether the proposed tax increase is necessary to maintain city services and stabilize finances, or whether additional savings and budget adjustments could reduce the burden on taxpayers. What Else Is Included in the Budget? The proposed budget includes several staffing and infrastructure decisions that residents may want to examine. Among the items identified in budget reporting are: A proposed full-time city assessor position with a reported annual salary of $97,000. A proposed development specialist position with a reported annual salary of $60,000. Approximately $350,000 for police department infrastructure and facility upgrades. An estimated $400,000 to $500,000 for a citywide property reassessment. The proposal also reportedly reduces or excludes several departmental requests, including additional police and fire personnel, a police investigator and an additional code enforcement officer. These decisions raise important questions about the city's priorities, staffing needs and how taxpayer money will be allocated. What Could This Mean for Your Property Tax Bill? The difference between a 23% increase and a 28.77% increase comes down to the starting point used for the calculation. The 23% figure compares the proposed rate with the underlying 2026 budget rate. The higher figure accounts for a one-time $266,442 tax credit that reduced the rate residents were actually billed last year. For illustration, if a homeowner paid $1,000 in comparable city property taxes under the 2026 billed rate, a 28.77% increase would bring that amount to approximately $1,288. That is an example, not an estimate for every homeowner. The actual impact will depend on a property's taxable assessment, applicable exemptions and tax district. School and Madison County taxes are separate, so the proposed city increase does not automatically mean a homeowner's entire property tax bill will rise by the same percentage. For residents already dealing with higher grocery bills, utility costs, insurance and other household expenses, even a smaller increase could create additional financial pressure. Local businesses could also face higher property tax expenses, depending on how their properties are assessed and taxed. Could the Common Council Make Changes? Yes. The proposed budget is not the final budget, and the Common Council has an opportunity to review the numbers and consider changes before adoption. Residents should watch for council discussions, public hearings and any revised budget documents that explain whether spending reductions, revenue changes or other adjustments could lessen the proposed increase. Some of the most important questions remain unanswered: How much money has the city used from its reserves in recent years? Which operating expenses are driving the budget shortfall? Why was the one-time tax credit available in 2026, and why is it not being repeated? What other spending reductions were considered? How much more would homeowners at different property values actually pay? Clear answers would help residents understand whether the proposed increase reflects unavoidable costs, previous budget decisions or a combination of factors. When Will Residents Know the Final Amount? The city's proposed 2027 budget and supporting documents are available through the official City of Oneida website. Residents can also review Common Council agendas and minutes for updates on the budget process. As of October 23, 2026, the proposal has not been confirmed as the final adopted budget. Residents should check the latest council records for any changes to the proposal and the status of a possible November 17 public hearing. Official resources: City of Oneida budget documents: https://oneidacityny.gov/departments/comptroller/city_budget.php Common Council agendas and meeting records: https://www.oneidacityny.gov/departments/city_clerk/agendas_meetings.php For Oneida residents, the central question is straightforward: Can the city stabilize its finances without placing such a significant additional burden on taxpayers? With a potential increase approaching 29% compared with last year's billed city rate, the decisions made during the budget process could have a lasting impact on household finances and the local business community.

Families and businesses are struggling with rising energy costs as trade tensions put New York’s electricity supply and energy policies under renewed scrutiny. New York electricity prices are soaring, squeezing families and businesses as cross-border power trading and U.S.-Canada tensions raise questions about energy affordability. New Yorkers are facing a growing affordability problem: electricity prices are climbing, monthly bills are squeezing household budgets, and businesses are being forced to absorb higher operating costs. Yet while residents are being told to manage their energy use and prepare for expensive bills, electricity continues to move across the Canadian border through a complex regional power market. The situation raises an important question for state leaders: Why are New Yorkers paying so much for electricity, and what are Albany officials doing to make energy more affordable? According to U.S. Energy Information Administration data reported by the Empire Center for Public Policy, New York’s average residential electricity price reached 29.90 cents per kilowatt-hour in July 2026 — approximately 63% above the national average. For a household using 800 kilowatt-hours per month, estimated electricity expenditures rose by $270 over the previous 12-month period. For families already dealing with high housing costs, groceries, insurance and other everyday expenses, another increase in the monthly electric bill can make an already difficult financial situation worse. For small businesses, the consequences can be just as serious. Restaurants, retailers, manufacturers and other employers need electricity to keep their doors open. Higher utility costs can eat into already narrow profit margins, force price increases and leave business owners with fewer resources to invest in employees or expand their operations. New York Sells Power to Canada — But Also Buys It Back The cross-border electricity relationship is more complicated than it may appear. New York does export electricity to Canada, but it also imports substantial amounts of Canadian power. According to data cited by the New York Independent System Operator, the state imported approximately 7,461 gigawatt-hours of electricity from Ontario in 2025 while exporting about 811 gigawatt-hours to the province. Those figures show that New York was a net importer of electricity from Ontario over the year, even as power continued to flow in both directions. Electricity trading across borders is a normal part of the regional grid. Power can be purchased from neighboring systems when it is economical or needed to meet demand, while exports can help generators sell surplus electricity. Still, the numbers raise a legitimate question for New Yorkers struggling with their bills: Are state energy policies, electricity-market rules and cross-border arrangements delivering the best possible deal for the people and businesses paying for the system? Selling electricity outside the state does not automatically cause higher local bills. Prices depend on several factors, including fuel costs, demand, transmission constraints, generation availability and market rules. But consumers deserve clear answers about how those factors affect their bills and whether state policy is making electricity unnecessarily expensive. The Hidden Weight of Delivery Charges and Energy Fees For many customers, the frustration goes beyond the price of electricity itself. Utility bills can include separate charges for electricity supply, delivering that power, maintaining transmission and distribution infrastructure, and other approved adjustments or programs. Taxes and other applicable fees can add to the final amount. Customers may be surprised to discover that reducing electricity consumption does not always reduce their total bill as much as expected, particularly when fixed monthly charges remain. These charges help pay for the infrastructure required to deliver reliable electricity, but that does not mean every increase should escape scrutiny. New Yorkers have a right to understand what they are paying for, why charges are increasing and whether proposed utility rate hikes are justified. For small businesses, the cumulative effect of supply costs, delivery charges and other fees can turn electricity into a major overhead expense. For households, it can mean choosing between paying a utility bill and covering other necessities. State regulators and elected officials should make affordability and transparency central to energy policy, rather than expecting customers to absorb every additional cost. Geopolitical Tensions Could Make the Problem Worse The debate over electricity prices is also unfolding against a backdrop of strained U.S.-Canada relations. Ontario Premier Doug Ford has previously threatened to restrict or halt electricity exports to the United States in response to trade tensions with the Trump administration. Such threats have raised concerns about how tariffs and political retaliation could affect electricity prices and grid reliability in New York and other northeastern states. The issue is not simply political theater. New York relies on interconnected power systems, and electricity imports can become particularly valuable when demand is high or local generation is constrained. A Cornell-led study published in October 2026 found that tariffs or export surcharges on Canadian electricity could raise costs, increase emissions and create additional reliability risks under certain conditions. The research examined historical electricity-market data and simulated potential tariff scenarios; it did not establish that a new electricity tariff was currently responsible for New Yorkers’ bills. The dispute exposes a difficult reality: Energy affordability and reliability can be affected by decisions made beyond New York’s borders, even as state residents remain responsible for paying their utility bills. Meanwhile, Ontario has also arranged to purchase electricity from the United States for the coming winter, illustrating how power trading can shift with seasonal demand, maintenance needs and changing market conditions. New Yorkers Deserve More Than Political Finger-Pointing When electric bills rise, politicians can point to federal policies, state regulations, utility companies, fuel prices or international trade disputes. Each factor deserves examination, but blaming one administration or one policy without examining the full picture will not solve the problem. New Yorkers need a serious review of the costs built into their energy system. Are utility delivery charges and rate increases being scrutinized closely enough? Are state energy mandates being implemented at a reasonable cost? Are cross-border electricity transactions benefiting New York consumers? And are state officials doing enough to protect small businesses and working families from rising utility expenses? These questions deserve clear, data-backed answers. New York needs a reliable electricity supply. It also needs an energy system that residents and employers can afford. Those goals should not be treated as mutually exclusive. Electricity is not a luxury for modern households and businesses. It is essential infrastructure. When prices rise far above the national average, state leaders should be prepared to explain why — and show what they are doing to bring costs down. For families struggling to keep up and businesses trying to survive, the bottom line is simple: New Yorkers should not have to accept sky-high energy bills without accountability, transparency and a credible plan to make electricity more affordable.\ Sources to support the article Empire Center for Public Policy — New York electricity prices and rising household costs. Reports the July 2026 residential electricity price data. New York Independent System Operator — 2025 Power Trends report. Provides statewide electricity import and export figures. Cornell University — Research on Canadian electricity tariffs and grid reliability. Explains how trade restrictions could affect New York's electricity costs and reliability. Empire Center for Public Policy +2 Editorial note: The strongest defensible angle is that New Yorkers are paying unusually high electricity prices while state energy policy and cross-border trade deserve greater scrutiny. The article deliberately distinguishes the documented high prices and export figures from the unproven claim that exporting electricity is what causes those prices.

Utica Man Accused of Attacking Neighbor Twice With Knife Inside Apartment Building According to the Utica Police Department On October 16th, 2026 at approximately 7:50PM Utica Police units were dispatched to a residence on the 700 block of Mohawk St regarding an assault investigation. Upon arrival they spoke with a victim who stated that at approximately 3:30 PM she was alerted to a noise in her kitchen area, and upon entering, noticed her downstairs neighbor standing there. When she confronted the individual about being inside her apartment, the neighbor began to threaten her with a knife and swung the knife wildly slicing her hand. The neighbor then fled downstairs. Later that evening a relative was at her home when the neighbor began to again to cause a disturbance and engage with the victim. Once again the suspect brandished a knife, ultimately cutting the victim a second time. On this occasion 911 was called and officers arrived, ultimately taking the suspect, Mohammad Adbuwasher age 29 of Utica, in custody. Furthermore, a search warrant was conducted on Adbuwasher’s apartment, in which the knife used was located inside of a closet. At the conclusion of the investigation, Adbuwasher was charged with: Assault in the second degree x2 Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the third degree x2 Burglary in the second degree Source: City of Utica, NY Police Department FB

According to the Oneida County Health Department A raccoon has tested positive for rabies in Deansboro. The raccoon was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on October 13, 2026, and positive results were reported on October 14, 2026. One vaccinated cat was exposed to the raccoon.

CNYonline.com | Local News October 20, 2026 CENTRAL NEW YORK — A reported foreclosure action against landlord Douglas Waterbury targets 19 properties, putting residential rentals and land associated with two well-known regional attractions at the center of a multimillion-dollar mortgage dispute. According to reporting by Syracuse.com and Oswego County News Now, the properties include Sylvan Beach Amusement Park, Sterling Renaissance Festival land, and rental properties in Oswego and Morrisville. Lender Claims More Than $5.3 Million Is Owed The reports describe an October filing in New York State Supreme Court by Green Lakes LLC, a Tully-based lender. The lender alleges that more than $5.3 million is owed in connection with missed mortgage payments and interest, and is seeking repayment along with attorneys’ fees. Those figures represent the lender’s claims. The information provided does not establish that a final foreclosure judgment or sale has been ordered. Local Attractions and Housing Are at Stake The reported action reaches beyond Waterbury’s apartment holdings to properties associated with destinations familiar to generations of Central New York families. However, the filing alone does not establish that either attraction will close. The materials available for this article do not confirm an auction date, an ownership transfer or changes to future operating schedules. Separate Criminal Cases and Civil History The mortgage dispute comes against the backdrop of separate criminal allegations against Waterbury. WRVO reported in March that he had been charged with attempted rape, attempted bribery and patronizing a person for prostitution, as well as stalking in a separate incident. Those were charges, not findings of guilt; that March report does not establish the cases’ current status. In 2019, a federal consent decree required Waterbury and his co-defendants to pay $850,000 in damages and civil penalties to resolve two lawsuits alleging sexual harassment of female tenants and prospective tenants. The decree also barred him from participating in residential rental or property management activities, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. The foreclosure dispute concerns alleged mortgage defaults and remains separate from those criminal allegations and earlier civil proceedings.

CNYonline.com | Local News October 20, 2026 UPSTATE NEW YORK — National Grid’s winter forecast delivers a pointed message for household budgets: electricity will cost more, while projected natural gas savings amount to less than $2 a month. For the November 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027 heating season, typical residential electric customers are expected to pay 3% to 5% more, adding $22 to $39 over five months, depending on their region. Meanwhile, a typical residential natural gas customer using 713 therms is projected to save approximately $9 for the entire winter. For households receiving both services, that modest gas savings would not offset the projected electric increase. What Will Businesses Be Hit With? The available winter forecast does not provide a comparable percentage or dollar estimate for business customers. The residential increase of 3% to 5% should not be presented as a commercial forecast. Business bills depend on their service classification, energy consumption, supply arrangements and, for some accounts, demand charges tied to peak electricity use. National Grid’s business rate information confirms that supply costs vary with market conditions and location. For restaurants running refrigeration, shops keeping their lights on and facilities heating large spaces, higher electricity expenses could put additional pressure on operating budgets. The actual financial hit will depend on each business’s account and usage; the published household figures do not answer that question. These Are Estimates—Not a Ceiling National Grid’s projections assume typical winter weather and reflect market information available at the end of September. Actual bills can change with temperatures, energy use and market conditions. The company says supply charges pass through its energy purchasing costs without markup, while delivery charges support network operations, maintenance, storm response and upgrades. For Central New York customers preparing for winter, the forecast offers limited reassurance: higher projected electricity costs, a small natural gas reduction and no comparable seasonal estimate in the available announcement for local businesses.

According to the Oneida County Sheriff, Robert Maciol, on October 19, 2026, at approximately 1:00 PM Deputies responded to a reported personal injury motor vehicle accident that occurred at the intersection of Smith Rd and Spring Rd in the Town of Verona. Upon arrival, it was discovered by Deputies that Dianna Dodge, 46, of Verona, was operating a 2010 Subaru Forester north on Spring Rd when she collided with a 2022 Dodge Ram pickup truck, being operated by Benjamin Pangburn of Verona. Pangburn was traveling west on Smith Rd when he failed to yield the right of way after stopping at the stop sign. The collision forced both vehicles off the roadway and Dodge’s vehicle caught fire. Dodge suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to SUNY Upstate ER by Mercy Flight. Pangburn complained of minor injuries and was transported to Wynn ER by Vineall Ambulance. Deputies were assisted on scene by NYSP, Verona Fire Dept, Westmoreland Fire Dept, AmCare Ambulance, and Vineall Ambulance. No tickets have been issued as the crash is still under investigation at this time.

The family business thanks generations of customers, employees, and industry partners for three decades of support. Trailer Marketing Services has announced the difficult decision to close its doors, bringing an end to a 30-year journey serving customers throughout New York and the Northeast. Founded in 1996 by Brent Moyer and Ron Miller, TMS grew into a second-generation family business. For the family who carried it forward, the company represented years of hard work, lasting friendships, and pride in serving generations of customers. In its announcement, TMS cited rising product and freight costs, significant changes within the trailer industry, and the loss of its dealer-distribution business as the factors that made continued operations unsustainable. The family’s message also expressed gratitude to the people who helped build the business over the past three decades. “To every customer who trusted us, every employee who worked beside us, and every dealer and manufacturer who supported us over the past 30 years: thank you,” the family shared. “Your loyalty helped build TMS, and we will never forget it.” The closure marks a deeply personal farewell for a family that devoted itself to the company and the relationships formed along the way. “We gave this business everything we had. We did our best, and we are deeply grateful for the memories, friendships, and support that came with this journey.” As TMS closes this chapter, its final message is a simple expression of appreciation to everyone who was part of its story: “From our family to yours—thank you for 30 unforgettable years.” Source ; https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HZbJCHPiU/

A breathtaking waterfall, towering cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and winter adventures make this Oswego County destination a must-visit for nature lovers. Tucked away in the quiet countryside of Orwell, New York, lies a natural wonder that showcases the raw beauty of Upstate New York. Salmon River Falls, a magnificent 110-foot waterfall surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush forest, offers visitors an unforgettable outdoor experience in every season. Located within the 112-acre Salmon River Falls Unique Area in Oswego County, this spectacular destination combines the peaceful beauty of a forest retreat with the dramatic power of rushing water. Whether you're looking for a scenic afternoon outing, an opportunity to capture stunning photographs, or an adventurous hike, Salmon River Falls offers something worth discovering. A Waterfall Carved Into the Landscape One of the most impressive features of Salmon River Falls is its dramatic 110-foot plunge over layers of shale and limestone. The waterfall sits within a gorge stretching approximately 3,000 feet, with cliffs rising as high as 120 feet. The appearance of the falls can change dramatically depending on water levels and releases from the upstream hydroelectric dam. Sometimes, the water cascades down in several delicate ribbons. At other times, it becomes a powerful torrent that crashes into the rocky basin below. These changing conditions make every visit a little different, giving photographers and nature enthusiasts a reason to return throughout the year. Trails With Incredible Views Visitors don't have to tackle a difficult hike to appreciate the beauty of Salmon River Falls. The Falls Trail includes a 1,100-foot hardened, wheelchair-accessible section leading from the parking area to an upper overlook. From this viewpoint, visitors can admire the waterfall and surrounding gorge without navigating the more challenging terrain below. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, additional trails lead toward the riverbed and lower gorge. These routes involve steep stairs, rocky surfaces, and uneven ground, making sturdy footwear essential. Trail conditions can change, and some sections may close because of deterioration or dangerous seasonal ice. The Upper Falls Trail also extends approximately one mile toward the upstream reservoir and dam, offering another way to explore the surrounding landscape. Four Seasons of Natural Beauty Salmon River Falls is a year-round destination, and each season brings a different atmosphere. Spring and summer bring fresh greenery, flowing water, and opportunities for peaceful walks through the forest. Autumn transforms the surrounding trees into a colorful display of reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a beautiful backdrop for photographs. Winter turns the gorge into a striking frozen landscape. Ice formations cling to the rock walls, and the waterfall takes on an entirely different appearance. Ice climbing is permitted during winter months, but climbers must register daily at the trailhead kiosk before entering the gorge. The combination of dramatic rock formations, changing water conditions, and seasonal scenery makes Salmon River Falls an appealing destination for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. What Visitors Should Know Before Going Salmon River Falls is located on Falls Road in Orwell, approximately 15 miles inland from Lake Ontario and about 45 miles north of Syracuse. The area is managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and is open year-round from dawn to dusk. Admission is free, and a rural parking lot provides a kiosk and portable restroom. Dogs are permitted but must remain on a leash. Visitors should also remember that the lower gorge is considerably more challenging than the upper overlook. Safety is especially important near the water. Strong currents, slippery rocks, steep drop-offs, and changing water conditions can create hazardous situations. Swimming is strongly discouraged, even when the water appears calm. Visitors should respect posted warnings and trail closures. A Natural Treasure Worth Exploring Salmon River Falls is a reminder that some of New York's most impressive attractions can be found beyond its bustling cities and well-known tourist destinations. With its towering waterfall, rugged gorge, accessible scenic overlook, and opportunities for seasonal adventure, this hidden gem offers a memorable way to experience the natural beauty of Oswego County. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to see the falls in a new season, Salmon River Falls delivers a powerful combination of tranquility and wild beauty. For anyone planning an outdoor adventure in Upstate New York, this remarkable waterfall deserves a place on the itinerary. Plan your visit: Consult the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's official Salmon River Falls Unique Area page for current trail conditions, closures, and visitor guidance before heading out.

NEW HARTFORD, N.Y. — Emergency crews responded to a serious two-vehicle motor vehicle accident involving a rollover in New Hartford at approximately 6:45 a.m. Thursday, October 15, 2026, according to the New Hartford Fire Department. Initial reports indicated that an occupant had been ejected from one of the vehicles. Upon arrival, New Hartford Fire Department firefighters and EMS personnel began assessing those involved and providing emergency medical care. Due to the severity of one patient's injuries, an air medical helicopter was requested to transport the patient to a regional trauma center. Fire department crews established and secured a landing zone at Sherrill Brook Park, where patient care was transferred to the flight crew of LifeNet 7-14. The patient was then transported by air to Upstate University Hospital. The New Hartford Police Department, Edwards Ambulance Service, and the New York State Department of Transportation also assisted at the scene. The New Hartford Fire Department thanked the responding agencies for their coordination and teamwork in providing emergency care. No additional information regarding the identities of those involved, the cause of the crash, or the condition of the injured patient has been released.

UTICA, N.Y. — The Utica Police Department has released an update in the investigation after a deceased infant was discovered inside the sorting area of the Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Authority facility on Wednesday morning, October 14, 2026. According to police, officers were dispatched at approximately 11:40 a.m. to the facility at 824 Sewage Plant Road after employees discovered the infant. Facility personnel immediately halted operations and contacted law enforcement. Officers from the Utica Police Department’s Patrol Division, Crime Scene Unit and Criminal Investigations Division responded to the scene. Police have confirmed that the infant was female. Investigators have not yet determined the circumstances surrounding her death or how she came to be at the facility. Multiple Agencies Assisting in Investigation The Utica Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit is leading the investigation, working alongside the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and the Oneida County District Attorney’s Office. Investigators are also working closely with the Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s Office as they work to establish the infant’s identity and determine the circumstances surrounding her death. Police say the investigation remains in its preliminary stages. Police Ask Public for Information As the investigation continues, authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity, observed unusual circumstances or possesses information that could help investigators to come forward. Police emphasized that no piece of information should be considered too insignificant. Even details that may initially seem unrelated could help investigators establish a timeline and determine how the infant came to be at the facility. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Utica Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit at (315) 223-3556. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Mohawk Valley Crime Stoppers by: Visiting www.mohawkvalleycrimestoppers.com Calling 1-866-730-8477 (TIPS) Using the P3 Tips mobile app The Utica Police Department is asking the public to refrain from speculation while investigators work to establish the facts. This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Additional information will be released when available and when appropriate to do so without compromising the investigation. A Message from CNY Online: The CNY Online team continues to keep this precious child in our prayers. We extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy. Heavenly Father, please welcome this innocent child into Your loving arms. Bring peace and comfort to all those touched by this tragedy, and guide the investigators as they seek answers. May Your love shine in this time of sorrow. In Jesus’ name, Amen. CNY Online will continue to follow this developing story and share verified updates as they become available. Sources to keep up to date on it: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid095AUo1s53gpWCwUDWY68jGPjP73GXAfh27x4JAiTikLrGzmrRk8YwZnEyKqTyKppl&id=100064802073577&rdid=uCFs9Y6pbJPVUrXW#

County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. today presented his 2027 operating budget and capital plan to the Oneida County Board of Legislators, proposing no increase to the County property tax levy while continuing strategic investments in the community’s future. The proposed operating budget totals just over $577 million, while the capital plan retires nearly $19 million in existing debt and calls for approximately $17.9 million in new borrowing. “This budget is about making the hard choices necessary to keep Oneida County moving forward while protecting taxpayers and investing in our future,” Picente said. “We have kept the property tax levy flat, continued to reduce the tax rate and made the investments necessary to grow our economy, improve our infrastructure, address housing and provide the critical services our residents depend on.” Since 2013, the County’s tax rate on full valuation has fallen from $7.06 per $1,000 of market value to a proposed $3.95 in 2027, a decrease of more than 6% from the 2026 rate of $4.21. During the same period, total taxable property value in Oneida County has grown from just over $10 billion to nearly $21 billion. Housing remains a major priority in the proposed budget as the County works toward its goal of creating 6,000 new housing units by 2040. Picente announced plans to establish a housing division within the County Planning Department and included $2 million in a restricted fund to implement recommendations developed by the County’s newly-formed housing team in early 2027. The County will also continue investments in critical infrastructure and core services, including $27 million for the Water Pollution Plant, $24 million for the County Road Fund and $15 million for economic development. The budget sustains support for community partners including Cornell Cooperative Extension, Mohawk Valley EDGE, local humane societies, libraries and Mohawk Valley Community College. The proposal addresses continued cost pressures, including state and federal mandates, higher fuel, equipment and utility costs and the County’s growing responsibilities for programs such as SNAP and HEAP. The budget also includes reductions of up to 12% for certain outside agencies as the County works to control costs while maintaining essential services. Discretionary spending is down $200,000 from 2026. “This is my 20th budget, and the lesson that experience has taught me is that progress comes from making the hard choices and keeping our focus on the future,” Picente said. “The Oneida County of today is stronger and more fiscally sound than it was 20 years ago because we chose to invest, grow and move forward. This budget continues that work.” The proposed 2027 budget and capital plan will now undergo review by the Board of Legislators in the coming weeks. Picente said his administration will work closely with the Board throughout the review process. “There are challenges ahead, but the path forward has never been brighter,” Picente said. “We will continue to face those challenges head on and build on the progress we have made together.” The 2027 budget address can be read in its entirety here. The 2027 budget proposal can be reviewed here. Video of the presentation can be viewed here.