Monroe County Legislature Unanimously Approves $1.5 Billion Budget for 2025

The Monroe County Legislature has unanimously approved a $1.5 billion budget for 2025, prioritizing public safety, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements while achieving the lowest property tax rate in more than four decades. The spending plan was finalized yesterday and received broad bipartisan support as legislators emphasized its alignment with community priorities.

Key Highlights:

• Tax Relief: The property tax rate is set at $6.96 per $1,000 of assessed value, a historic low. County Executive Adam Bello highlighted the tax reduction as a cornerstone of the budget, aiming to ease the burden on homeowners while maintaining essential services

• Public Safety Investments: Additional funds have been allocated to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, including resources for staffing and operational enhancements. The budget also supports mental health services and initiatives to reduce recidivism, reflecting a holistic approach to public safety

• Social Services and Workforce Development: Substantial funding is earmarked for homelessness prevention, child welfare services, and programs to strengthen the local workforce. Bello emphasized these measures as investments in the county’s long-term economic health

Legislature President Yversha Román says the budget approval process was marked by transparency and cooperation across political lines. County legislators worked closely with Executive Bello’s administration to incorporate feedback from residents and community leaders.

“I thank my colleagues in government for thoughtful debate and discussion pertaining to the budget and budget process.," she said.

Minority Leader Sabrina LaMar and other legislators commended the bipartisan effort, which they described as a reflection of shared goals for the county’s future.

Legislators say the approved budget addresses immediate community needs while planning for future growth. Infrastructure upgrades, including improvements to roads and public facilities, aim to enhance quality of life and attract economic investment. Furthermore, the inclusion of expanded funding for public health programs ensures that underserved populations will receive critical care and support.

As implementation begins in 2025, Bello and legislative leaders expressed optimism about the county's financial health and its ability to deliver on the promises outlined in the budget. They say the spending plan aligns with Monroe County’s broader strategy to foster a thriving, inclusive, and safe community for all residents.

“The approved 2025 Monroe County Budget is a reflection of my administration’s priorities and underscores my commitment to providing essential services like public safety, public health, and quality of life improvements.,” County Executive Adam Bello said.