Massive '08 deficit could mean LI property tax hikes

A looming state budget deficit could translate into major cuts for some Long Island school districts ? and higher property taxes for residents. Lawmakers in Albany are projecting a $3-$4 billion 2008

News 12 Staff

Nov 29, 2007, 11:20 PM

Updated 6,214 days ago

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A looming state budget deficit could translate into major cuts for some Long Island school districts ? and higher property taxes for residents.
Lawmakers in Albany are projecting a $3-$4 billion 2008 budget deficit. Nine Republican state senators fired off a letter to Education Commissioner Richard Mills protesting proposed cuts to extra aid. They also complained about the removal of $17 million in special education costs.
The letter states those cuts, and others, could amount to $100 million lost for Long Island schools. The senators argue their constituents may face higher taxes as a result.
"Frankly, we're asking for fairness and equity," said state Sen. John Flanagan. "We don't think the Regents proposal, as it stands, does anything that's beneficial for Long Island."
A state budget panel will hold a public hearing on the matter Friday, Nov. 30 in Hauppauge.
Related information:Division of Budget: Public hearings regarding the 2008-2009 budget