Broome’s Budget a Done Deal

The Broome County budget goes into place as presented back to the County Executive with the Legislature’s revisions.

Executive Debra Preston did not veto any of the revised items, leaving the $367 million budget with a tax levy increase of 1.88%.

The ledger pays for the addition of 13 Sheriff’s Deputies to work at an expanded jail and more staff for Willow Point Nursing Home.

In spite of protests by senior citizens and others at the Broome County Office Building, the Republican-controlled legislature has approved going ahead with negotiations with a private firm to take over the county Central Foods & Nutrition Department. The protestors not only objected to the potential loss of local jobs but also questioned Philadelphia-based Aramark’s health record.  Michigan pulled its prison food contract with the company after allegations were made of contaminated meals and shortages.

Also during the legislative meeting November 19, long-time Southern Tier AIDS Program spokeswoman, Mary Kaminsky was sworn in as the Legislator for the 14^th district.

Kaminsky had been tapped earlier this month by the Democrat Legislative Caucus to replace Jason Garnar, who had to resign after he moved outside the district.