City Of Albany Announces It is $22 Million Over Budget

Back in May it was reported that Albany, NY was facing a deficit of $19.6 million. It appears that the budget is still growing and the latest update put the budget gap at $22 million. So what exactly will that mean for folks who live in the City, as well as for those who work for the city?

Right now that question is unclear. Mayor Dorcey Applyrs said that she has asked the State Comptroller to look at the proposed budget and provide guidance to them on spending and the path forward. So what is that path forward? According to WNYT the city has already tightened spending and decreased on hiring. What is next?

Read More: City of Albany Says They Are $19.6 Million in Debt

Property Taxes

While nothing has been said about any kind of tax increase heading into 2027, that kind of budget debt leads me to believe there will be some kind of property tax change for city of Albany residents. According to Google the average property tax bill in Albany, NY is over $5,000 and I'm not sure most residents can afford to shell out more.

As a City of Albany resident I cannot financially take an increase in property or school tax when i haven't seen any real improvement to see that my money is even being out to good use. Sure, they're paving roads and adding curb appeal but it feels like the same old Albany.

There are some positives to look at. The Saint Rose Campus has been taken over by the county by Albany County and they're actively looking to add new businesses there. Cindy B's Cafe officially opened there today, and hopefully this helps bring some love to that area. However, for as great as this is to see an area growing there are too many vacant businesses that used to be.

The Mayor is still planning to "turn the lights back on" in Albany, but lights cost money. Right now I don't think they have a lot of money to play with. I wat this city to succeed, and I voted for this Mayor because I do believe she will help turn the city around.