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June 18, 2009

Seaford Library, 2234 Jackson St, Seaford, NY

On Thursday, June 18th, Laura Mallay, the Executive Director of Residents for Efficient Special Districts (RESD) was our guest speaker. She discussed the number one issue facing Long Islanders, taxes. Some of her points; one of the cost factors is the size of government. One area in particular is special taxing districts. Long Island has hundreds of these districts which provide various municipal services such as sanitation, water, sewer, fire protection and other related services. She actually identified a "Memorial Day" special district. The question posed, “What can be done to reduce local taxes?” Is consolidation the answer?

Laura Mallay's presentation discussed the breakdown of the property tax bill relating to each taxing jurisdiction and the percentage of taxes each receives. She then addressed the cost factor for certain governmental entities. Residents for Efficient Special Districts advocated for several reforms including same day voting, the disclosure of all budgets and the simplification of the process to consolidate special districts.  The latter reform would allow voters to initiate a referendum to consolidate various layers of government. This reform which recently passed the legislature is awaiting the Governor's signature. The legislation simplifies the process for placing a consolidation initiative on the ballot.

The meeting was well represented by fire districts, villages, libraries and other concerned citizens. There was a good back and forth during the comment session. It was apparent that there was agreement on certain aspects of  consolidation; those wishing to initiate a referendum for consolidation must have broad support in their community, it must reduce taxation beyond minor savings, it should neutral in terms of public safety, and there must be support from the jurisdiction that will absorb the functions of the special district being dissolved. The answer; yes and no. It depends on the circumstances.  

For more information on RESD, click here.