Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi (D) delivered his sixth State of the County address in Mineola Tuesday.

Suozzi spoke for about 30 minutes at 1 West Street. After boasting of four consecutive years without any tax hikes, Suozzi said a property tax increase will be necessary next year. Suozzi's plan focuses on consolidating the more than 400 local municipalities within the county. He asked the Legislature to authorize $500,000 of the 2006 budget's $45 million surplus to organize a consolidation plan. Suozzi also came out in support of a state-authorized cigarette tax hike, as well as a county ban on trans fats in restaurants.

In the Republican response, Minority Leader Peter Schmitt (R-Seaford) said county taxes have actually increased under Suozzi's watch by 20 percent. He added spending is up by $739 million.

To watch Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi's State of the County address and Minority Leader Peter Schmitt's Republican response, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.

Related Information: Nassau State of the County Address