Nassau County Comptroller Howard Weitzman (D) revealed Thursday the county needs to deal with a major budget gap for 2008.

Despite Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi's (D) announcement of a $45.4 million surplus for 2006, Weitzman says tough choices loom due to a projected $164 million shortfall for 2008. According to Weitzman, Suozzi has never before faced a deficit without drawing on reserve revenues. The comptroller says the county may now have to cut services or raise taxes. Suozzi included a 3.9 percent property tax increase for 2008 in his multi-year plan, but he says legislators are unlikely to pass the hike in an election year.

Presiding Officer Judy Jacobs (D-Woodbury) says she'll investigate state initiatives that could bring in extra funds, like raising the tax on cigarettes. Meanwhile, Minority Leader Peter Schmitt (R-Seaford) contends Republicans will not approve a property tax increase. By law, the Nassau County Legislature must pass a balanced budget.

To see the complete interview with Nassau County Comptroller Howard Weitzman on the 2008 budget gap, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.