Gov. David Paterson?s budget announcement Tuesday ignited concern among many who fear his spending cuts will be especially detrimental to Long Island.

The governor's plan, which includes big cuts in school aid, will not only impact classrooms, but property taxes as well. School Tax Relief Program (STAR) property tax rebate checks are getting the ax, which means homeowners won?t get that extra help with high school taxes. Furthermore, experts say towns may have to increase property taxes to account for the decrease in school aid coming from the state.

Many on Long Island say their school taxes are already too high. Dr. Ronald Friedman with the Nassau Superintendents' Council says districts will do their best with what they have.

?We're going to be trimming in every area where it will have the least impact on kids,? Friedman says.

Homeowners can still claim exemption from school taxes at tax time, though they will not receive checks.

Under Paterson?s plan, Long Island residents could be paying more across the board for items like shoes and clothing, soda, alcohol and entry to parks and beaches. Some say that will only hamper the economy even further.

?It is tax free in Jersey and you can shop as much as you want,? says Mary Young, of Brentwood. ?You discourage people from shopping here [when you tax].?

Watch team coverage of Paterson?s budget proposal:Coverage of impact on college students and state workersSee what Paterson?s budget will do for everyday consumers

Executive budget briefing Paterson calls for big aid cuts, new fees to close deficitLI residents say there's nothing sweet about soda tax To see Paterson's full budget announcement go to Channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.