AMHERST, N.Y. — Republican leaders in Amherst are speaking out about an 11% tax hike in the town budget.
Amherst Republican leaders called for an amendment requiring the release of the town budget and any proposed tax increases ten days before a town election.
The Amherst Town Board voted to override the state's cap on local tax increases and push through the increase.
"I understand that we live in a relatively affluent area but almost ten percent of our town residents live below the poverty level that includes folks on fixed incomes and seniors who can't afford increases like this especially given the current economic conditions nationwide, " said Brian Rusk, Amherst Republican Chairperson.
2 On Your Side reached out to Supervisor Brian Kulpa, he says the budget is always released in October and it was this year as well.
He said the budget was also presented in work sessions and public hearings.