Statement from Ranzenhofer on his attempt to reinstate STAR rebate checks

Posted by Howard Owens on April 3, 2009 - 12:07pm
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We just received this statement from Sen. Mike Ranzenhofer's office:

“I lead the fight for homeowners, seniors and middle-class families on the Senate floor today and proposed an amendment to the State budget that would have reinstated STAR rebate checks for each and every homeowner in Western New York. 

Unfortunately, Senate democrats rejected my proposal, refusing to provide tax relief for homeowners that already pay some of the highest property taxes in the nation.  As a result, families will lose an average of $369 in Erie County and $525 in Genesee County for 2009 in much needed property tax relief. 

The Albany politicians still do not understand that Western New Yorkers need property tax relief now.  In these tough economic times, Western New Yorkers, especially middle-class families and seniors, need the STAR rebate checks to pay sky-rocketing property taxes just to make ends meet. 

Just as I did today on the Senate floor and at news conference outside property taxpayers’ houses weeks ago in Tonawanda and LeRoy, I will continue to fight to preserve the STAR program and property tax relief for Western New York.”

Posted by tp hunt on April 4, 2009 - 12:27am
The typical slight of hand deal from the State of NY. Move the obligation from the state level to the local tax payers level. The home owner gets screwed again.
Posted by Peter O'Brien on April 4, 2009 - 6:55am
Well we can';t make those who use state services pay for state services. That's just not right. those evil rich who live in those giant houses and can make their mortgage payments on time need to pay their fair share (and by fair share I am completely unfair).

If it weren't for my family living in the area I would never have come back after leaving the Navy.
Posted by Frank Michaels on April 4, 2009 - 12:37pm
Where are Longhany, Stressing, and Jones? They still have not come out to defend the three Democrats from NYC in a room budget that kills upstate. The three must believe in party over people. Their silence shows that Genesee County Democrats support higher taxes on families. In fact, the Batavian posted a smiling picture of Chair Longhany with the accidental Gov. a few weeks ago.
At least Democrat City Council Prez Charlie Mallow said people over party in the Daily recently. Looks like he is seeking a cross endorsement from the Republicans as well as Democrat support. Good for him. Must make the local Democrats crazy!
Regular people depend on STAR. Apparantly, local Democrats do not care. Remember that this fall. I will.
Posted by Daniel Jones on April 5, 2009 - 8:13pm
Frankie-I truly admire your gracious and polite demeanour.