Barclay Presents Real Solutions to Close Budget Deficit in Albany

by Contributor | November 17, 2009 7:55 pm

Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I—Pulaski) held a press conference with his colleagues in Albany today to outline real solutions to closing New York’s $3.2 billion budget deficit.

“We’re in Albany in special sessions for the second week in a row to close the budget gap. So far, however, our leaders have taken no action and seem to be talking about everything but the budget. I have, again, presented solutions to Gov. Paterson’s deep cuts to school and municipal funding. This list has been submitted to the Governor for consideration and, I’m hopeful that the majority leaders will put forth their suggestions so that all affected by mid-year cuts can plan accordingly,” said Barclay.

“Our state reached its tax threshold long ago. The budget passed in the spring was too much for people to bear; on top of the unsustainable growth in government spending, new taxes and fees were added. I voted against the state budget, knowing it would only hurt taxpayers and business,” said Barclay. “It’s no surprise that we’re back here, in this economic climate, trying to close a budget deficit.”

“However, Albany’s continued inaction only allows the budget deficit to grow. The Legislature must take action,” said Barclay. Below are ways Barclay suggests closing the budget gap:

• Cut non-essential personal services such as travel, postage, subscriptions and vehicles. This would save $500 million.
• Cut contract balances by 5%. The state spends roughly $129 billion on contracts which range from subscriptions to temp agency services. By reducing this expenditure by 5%, we would save roughly $300 million.
• Reduce the amount of money set aside to purchase private lands by $30 million.
• Add to the Governor’s administrational savings plan to save $169 million.
• Trim agency cash balances, excluding Medicaid, school aid, aid to municipalities and libraries by 12.5% rather than 10% to save an additional $120 million.
• Continue to refinance bonds and debt for an additional $24 million in savings.

Source URL: https://oswegocountytoday.com/community/barclay-presents-real-solutions-to-close-budget-deficit-in-albany/

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