Op-Ed By Bruce Blakeman
New York families are struggling under the weight of some of the highest property taxes in the nation. Yet instead of delivering meaningful relief, Governor Kathy Hochul has chosen to send $1.5 billion in taxpayer money to bail out New York City as it grapples with a budget shortfall under newly elected Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
That decision sends the wrong message to taxpayers across Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and upstate New York.
Reports indicate New York City has already reduced its projected deficit from $12 billion to about $7 billion. Despite that improvement, Albany is preparing to send $1 billion this fiscal year and another $510 million next year to help cover the city’s finances. If the state truly has $1.5 billion available, that money should be returned to the taxpayers who earned it—starting with school tax relief for homeowners across New York.
For too long, suburban and upstate taxpayers have been treated as an afterthought in Albany’s budget decisions. Hard-working families are paying thousands of dollars each year in property taxes while also facing rising costs for groceries, energy, and housing. They deserve relief.
Instead, the state continues to funnel massive resources into programs that disproportionately benefit New York City. Childcare subsidies and voucher programs now cost the state nearly $1.8 billion annually, with the largest share directed to the city.
At the same time, New York City’s policies surrounding its sanctuary city status are placing additional strain on public finances. Reports estimate that spending on services for asylum seekers and related programs will exceed $6 billion over current multi-year plans.
Taxpayers across the state should not be forced to shoulder the burden of policies and spending decisions made by city leaders.
New Yorkers deserve a different approach. As governor, I would return surplus dollars directly to taxpayers, beginning with school tax relief. I would also end the practice of one-off bailouts that reward fiscal mismanagement and divert resources away from education, infrastructure, and other essential services that benefit communities statewide.
Every dollar sent to Albany comes from the hard work of New Yorkers. It should be spent responsibly and fairly. Our state needs leadership that stands up for every community, not just the political priorities of New York City.
Bruce Blakeman is the Nassau County Executive and candidate for governor