Includes First Expansion of Senior Tax Exemption in 20 Years & Seventh Consecutive Property Tax Rate Cut

(BROOME COUNTY, NY) - Broome County Executive Jason Garnar delivered his 2026 Budget Address Monday evening at Riverside Gardens, outlining a responsible plan that balances fiscal restraint with key investments to protect services and support residents. Speaking before local leaders and county employees, Garnar emphasized the tough decisions required to close budget gaps while still moving Broome County forward.

"This is not a budget of easy choices," said Garnar. "It makes the tough cuts we need to stay financially responsible, while still investing in the people and programs that make Broome County stronger."

The 2026 budget prioritizes protecting taxpayer dollars, continuing the modernization of county government, and strengthening our neighborhoods. While $3.5 million in discretionary cutbacks were needed, the plan delivers investments that have a lasting impact.

Highlights of Garnar's address include:

• First expansion of the senior property tax exemption in 20 years
• Seventh consecutive property tax rate cut of 0.1%
• Restoring the Youth Bureau as its own department for the first time in 15 years
• $500,000 investment in the Small Community Fund

This marks County Executive Garnar's 8^th Budget Address as Broome County Executive.