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County Council Questions Assigned Counsel Budget Increase of $450,000

August 20, 2025 | Montgomery, New York


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County Council Questions Assigned Counsel Budget Increase of $450,000
The Montgomery County Legislative Meeting held on August 19, 2025, addressed several key resolutions impacting the county's budget and staffing. The meeting began with a discussion on a resolution amending the 2025 operating budget for assigned counsel, which sparked significant debate among legislators.

The primary concern raised was the request for an additional $450,000 to cover costs associated with assigned counsel. Legislator Rajewski expressed skepticism about the resolution's lack of detail, describing it as "the flimsiest looking resolution" he had encountered. He highlighted issues such as the increase in hourly rates from $60 to $158 and the absence of a clear budgeting process for assigned counsel. The legislators agreed that more information was needed before proceeding, suggesting that the assigned counsel administrator should be present at the next meeting to provide clarity. Ultimately, the resolution was tabled with a negative recommendation to the full board.

Following this, the board discussed a resolution to eliminate the position of first assistant district attorney and establish a deputy chief assistant district attorney position. This change would remove the residency requirement for applicants, allowing candidates from across New York State to apply. The resolution passed without opposition.

The meeting continued with a resolution to amend the operating budget to accept additional funding for a DWI high visibility engagement campaign, which also passed unanimously. Another resolution authorized the county executive to sign a contract for indigent legal services, aimed at hiring more attorneys or covering salaries, which was similarly approved.

The Health and Human Services Committee then convened, starting with a resolution to authorize an agreement with the city of Amsterdam for social services, which passed without discussion. Additional resolutions included contracts for public health services and mental health budget amendments, all of which were approved.

The meeting concluded with a series of resolutions related to social services and a lead prevention program grant, all moving forward without opposition. The overall tone of the meeting reflected a commitment to addressing budgetary concerns while ensuring adequate legal and social services for the county's residents.

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