Rockland Organizations To Critique Executive Budget

A half dozen elected state officials will conduct a budget hearing on Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s 2013-2014 Executive Budget. More than 250 Rockland County-based organizations have been invited to send representatives to the three-hour afternoon forum at the Valley Cottage Library.

State Senator David Carlucci and Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski along with State Senator William Larkin and Assembly members Ellen Jaffee, Annie Rabbitt and James Skoufis are co-hosting the joint legislative budget hearing. Jason Elan, a spokesman for Carlucci, said the mailing sent last week went to non-profits, veterans groups, health care providers and activists. He said the goal is to make sure people have a good understanding of the budget and its effect on Rockland.

"This hearing will provide an opportunity for residents to gauge a better understanding of how state priorities will impact them on the local level," said Carlucci. "I look forward to working with all stakeholders, advocates, and community leaders to make sure that their voices and input are heard in Albany."

The program takes place from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Valley Cottage Library at 110 Route 303. Each legislator is expected to give brief statement and then the forum will be opened up for questions and answers so organization representatives can ask questions about specific parts of the budget and how the budget will impact funding, resources, and play a role in shaping local communities.

"It is important to solicit input and suggestions from local Rockland residents as we go through this budget process," said Zebrowski.  "This hearing will be a great opportunity for taxpayers, municipalities, non-profits and businesses to address Rockland's state representatives on how the Executive Budget impacts them."