GOSHEN—The proposed budget that County Executive Steven Neuhaus presented to the Orange County Legislature on Sept. 30 had a distinct narrative. With continued cuts in spending, a lowering of the deficit, an increase in tax revenues, and an increase in employment, this budget suggests county finances are turning the corner.
In an interview in his office, Neuhaus explained that when he became County Executive in 2014, the county’s financial situation was poor “and the options were all bad.” The county could drastically raise property taxes, lay off hundreds of county workers, or take sales taxes from local coffers.
He opted for offering county workers an early retirement, which was accepted by 300 employees. That step cut $30 million.
This year the county took the retirement option to a new level.
If an employee has an opportunity in the private sector, even if he is not eligible for retirement, the county will pay to let me him or her leave. Neuhaus said 60 county workers have taken the option, saving the county $6 million.
