Statement from Jackie Auringer on Proposed Ulster County Tax Increase

"Last night, the Ulster County Legislature voted to advance authorization for what could become New York's first county income tax surcharge without the critical data needed to understand its impact on taxpayers, employers, investment, or the local economy.

At a time when Hudson Valley families are struggling to afford groceries, utilities, housing, and everyday expenses, I cannot think of a worse time to lay the groundwork for a new tax burden.

Good public policy is built on facts, not assumptions. Before asking Albany for this authority, county lawmakers owed the public an independent fiscal analysis and a clear understanding of the consequences. Instead, they voted first and promised answers later.

That is backwards.

Congressman Pat Ryan has remained conspicuously silent. As Ulster County's former county executive and its representative in Congress, he should make his position clear and call on Governor Kathy Hochul to veto this legislation when it reaches her desk.

Silence is not leadership. Hudson Valley families deserve to know whether Pat Ryan stands with taxpayers or with those pushing policies that make everyday life even more unaffordable."