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General News: Opposition Grows to MTA Tax
February 24, 2009
Opposition is growing to a proposed new payroll tax on residents of Orange County that would be used to fund the cash-strapped Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA). A special commission set up by Governor Paterson has proposed the so-called mobliity tax for 12 counties in the metro-New York area. The tax would amount to 33 cents on every $100 and would be used to reduce the MTA’s $1.2 billion deficit.
On Monday night, the Cornwall-on-Hudson board of trustees added its voice to that of other municipalities who are opposing the new tax levy by passing local resolutions.
Next Monday, members of the public will be able to voice their concerns directly to the MTA, which is holding a public hearing in Newburgh. State senator Bill Larkin lobbied the MTA to hold a hearing in Orange County and he says that all Orange County residents will be seriously impacted by the proposals.
In addition to the proposed tax, the MTA is proposing a fare hike, service cuts and the creation of tolls on the East River and Harlem bridges.
The hearing will begin at 6:00 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 15 Crossroads Court, Newburgh, N.Y. Those who wish to testify must register beforehand and will be allowed to speak for up to three minutes. You may sign up to testify, submit comments, or find out more information by visiting the MTA’s website at www.mta.info.
Comments:
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I wouldn't mind the hike if there were viable public transportation throughout the valley.
posted by Kate Benson on 02/24/09 at 10:55 PM
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This proposed measure will tax the payroll of every business for or non-profit in our area. Think of the implications for small businesses and non-profits. This sweeping tax will tap the payroll of every single employer in our region. The poor management of the MTA cannot become the burden of our communities and business owners. It WILL effect us all.
posted by Regina McGrade on 02/25/09 at 9:02 AM
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Why don't we just hand over our paychecks! Enough is enough - everybody wants a piece of us. I agree with Regina McGrade their poor management of the MTA shouldn't become our burden. They made the mess let them clean it up!
posted by Lana Beesecker on 02/25/09 at 10:39 AM
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Date
<to NYS elected officials>
As a business operating in the Mid-Hudson Valley, I am adding my voice to those
who strongly oppose the Ravitch Commission?s recent recommendation to impose a
payroll tax (one-third of one percent on total payroll) on businesses and organizations
within the Metropolitan Transportation Authority?s service territory.
I thoroughly understand the importance of having a safe and efficient
transportation system. However, the billion dollar deficit being faced by the MTA should
not be the responsibility of our region?s businesses, particularly when individuals,
businesses, not-for-profits and governments within the MTA district already contribute
significantly to the MTA through several other taxes and assessments. The addition of a
payroll tax to this list of mandates is unacceptable, especially in counties like Orange and
Rockland where there is limited access to train stations and where many of the businesses
that would be required to pay the tax would receive little or no benefit in return.
It is no secret that we all are facing unprecedented challenges in today?s roller
coaster business world. Compromises must be made on all sides when it comes to solving
the complex problems that face our businesses, our communities and our government.
However, the imposition of a tax on selected businesses and organizations to solve one
organization?s financial woes is not the way to go.
Please join me in standing against this proposed new tax on New York?s
businesses. Thank you.
Sincerely yours,
Name
Affiliation
posted by Regina McGrade on 02/25/09 at 10:57 AM
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