City 2012 Budget Passed With Significant New Amendment

POSTED: JANUARY 2012

By Stephen E. Lipken

It was a momentous evening at the City of New Rochelle City Council Legislative meeting on Tuesday, December 13 as Mayor Noam Bramson and Council members said good bye to fellow members Marianne Sussman, Richard St. Paul and adopted the 2012 Budget.

The Budget passed 4-2. City Manager Charles B. Strome III stated that since New York State (NYS) health insurance rates are expected to be $1 million lower than anticipated, the new Budget re-instates 6 firefighters; two Community Service Officers (CSO); crossing guards and Senior Recreation Specialist. Property tax rate increases by 5.96% or $185.532/$1,000.

Discussion turned to $1,300,000 paid per year by the City to rent fire hydrants from United Water Company. Strome mentioned that the City has been working with State officials to draft legislation charging all customer classes the hydrant fee including fire protection.

Also notable was an amendment proposed by St. Paul, allocating $100,000 to hire consulting firms to recruit commercial developers to the City. Commissioner of Development Michael Freimuth averred that City was not in pursuit of one type of tenant, but rather securing brokerage firms to connect the City to monies available to fund building upgrades to attract businesses. Council approved the measure.

Ending the meeting, Bramson wished St. Paul “Good luck in finding constructive outlets for your many talents” and thanked Sussman for her many years of service. “How do you summarize 12 years in a few minutes,” Sussman replied.

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