(The Ithaca Times)
The Tompkins County Legislature approved a $253.2 million budget for 2025 on Nov. 19, setting a tax levy increase of 2.72%. Initial calculations showed a 4.45% levy hike due to a tax cap error, but amendments to use contingency funds and fund balance reserves lowered the levy to meet the corrected cap.
Legislator Greg Mezey noted the fund balance, estimated at $40–$60 million, could absorb the $304,990 withdrawal without major consequences. However, concerns about excessive use of reserves were raised. Legislator Deborah Dawson cited Ithaca’s financial struggles as a cautionary tale, warning against overreliance on fund balances.
A failed amendment proposed lowering the levy to 2% by withdrawing an additional $384,000, citing taxpayer relief amid rising local taxes. Critics, including Legislator Shauna Black, opposed the measure, emphasizing risks to the county’s bond rating and funding for upcoming projects.
The budget ultimately passed 9-5, reflecting a compromise between fiscal caution and tax relief efforts.