Legislator Bosworth Assails Mangano's Unrealistic Budget

During a press conference last week, the Democratic Caucus of the Nassau County Legislature gave their initial review of County Executive Mangano’s proposed 2012 budget. The Democratic Legislators voiced strong criticism of Mangano’s document and they maintained that the proposed budget fails to reflect economic reality. Last year’s budget was also unrealistic and loaded with wishful thinking, high expectations, and pure fantasy. The Democratic Legislators stressed that the County Executive’s budget puts public safety at risk, depends too much on assistance from the state legislature and fails to provide any meaningful relief for our struggling taxpayers.

Legislator Judi Bosworth (D-Great Neck) said, “As we contemplate the County Executive’s ‘Fix Nassau Now’ budget, let’s not lose sight of the fact that government provides vital services. Long Island Bus is being privatized very likely resulting in fare increases and service reductions. This budget proposes closing two police precincts which could have a significant impact on our public safety. We need to look at ways of using resources efficiently and saving money, while taking seriously our commitment to providing the services for which we are responsible.”

Deputy Minority Leader Kevan Abrahams (D-Hempstead) added, “Of course the Republicans will tell you that they are not raising taxes, however the current administration with the support of the Republican legislative majority has increased County fees by over $50 million which is the equivalent of a 7 percent tax increase! They have also given tens of millions in lucrative contracts to their politically connected lawyer and engineer friends.”