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Allegany County legislators approve continuation of additional 1.5% sales tax through Nov. 30, 2027
Summary
The Allegany County Board of Legislators voted 11-2 to approve a resolution asking the state legislature to continue the county's additional 1.5% sales and compensating use tax through Nov. 30, 2027. Debate centered on local competitiveness and revenue trade-offs with property taxes.
The Allegany County Board of Legislators on April 23 approved a resolution asking the New York State Legislature to continue the county’s additional 1.5% sales and compensating use taxes until Nov. 30, 2027. The board passed Resolution Intro 17825 by a roll-call vote of 11 in favor and 2 opposed.
Supporters said the sales tax is a necessary revenue source to fund county services without increasing property taxes. “Sales tax, we collect from everybody, even if they don't own property or they're just traveling through,” said Legislator Healy, arguing the tax spreads the burden beyond property owners.
Opponents objected that the county’s combined sales tax rate is higher than many neighbors and can harm local businesses. “I’m going to be a no on this,” said Legislator Barnes. He urged a gradual reduction of the county’s half-percent surcharge to make the rate more competitive with nearby counties.
Legislator Hanchette asked for clarification that the measure is not a rate increase but a continuation; Chairman Harris confirmed it does not raise the rate. Deputy Treasurer (title provided in the meeting) said the additional 1.5% yields roughly $9,900,000 in revenue and noted that cutting that amount would require offsetting revenue from property taxes, program reductions, or personnel cuts.
The resolution, offered by the Ways and Means Committee, declares the necessity of continuing the county's additional sales and use taxes and requests state legislation to enact that continuation. Motion and sponsorship were recorded as made by Legislator Stockton and seconded by Legislator Fanton.
Roll-call votes recorded during the meeting show 11 yes votes and 2 no votes; Legislator Barnes and Legislator Passat voted no. Two members were absent. With passage, the board will forward the county’s resolution to Albany for consideration by the New York State Legislature.
Resolution details: Resolution Intro 17825 — continuation of the county’s additional 1.5% sales and compensating use taxes until Nov. 30, 2027; motion by Legislator Stockton; second by Legislator Fanton; outcome: approved (11–2).
