Town Budget Talks Spark Little Debate

The Town Board of Oyster Bay held two hearings Tuesday at Town Hall in Oyster Bay in an effort to discuss the proposed $242,878,344 2011 preliminary Town budget. 

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto spoke about the importance of the proposal he wants implemented.

"What you see in the budget is what I would like to see in the Town of Oyster Bay. There will be a small increase in property taxes, about $30 to the average homeowner a year. It helps to keep the town solvent," said Venditto.  

Comptroller Robert McEvoy added, "Today's hearings are the first step of many steps. The Town Board will review the budget to make sure everything will work and then we can move forward."

According to McEvoy, the budget includes fixing roads and making park renovations in Syosset that will include Stillwell Woods Preserve.

"All proposed spending has been thoroughly analyzed and the result is a lean, cost-efficient budget that enables Town departments to efficiently and effectively provide the programs and services that help make Oyster Bay's communities among the finest in the nation," McEvoy said. 

There was no opposition from residents during the public comment portions of the meetings.

The budget will be finalized by January. The next budget hearing will meet on Nov. 9 at 10 a.m. at Town Hall, 54 Audrey Ave. in Oyster Bay. To view the preliminary budget, visit www.oysterbaytown.com.