With the 2018 legislative session in full swing, I’ll soon turn my attention to New York’s 2018-19 budget, and I want to know what you think should be included. The state budget determines how hardworking taxpayers’ money is invested and which programs are funded or created to strengthen our communities. The state budget tackles some of the issues that matter most to Central New York families. Last year, I helped increase funding for schools in the 127th Assembly District by $9.7 million, restore library funding to $95.6 million, establish ride-hailing across the state and increase funding for programs that support farmers and the agriculture industry, job seekers and local businesses so our economy can grow. New York is facing a large budget deficit this year, so this budget season will be a challenging one. But be assured that, I’m going to fight to ensure Central New York is not left behind. I’ll be looking for ways to address the heroin and opioid epidemic, ensure a progressive tax code that protects middle-class families and local businesses, and work toward equitable access to health care. As always, I’ll also continue my fight for more school funding so that our kids are prepared for the future and receive the training necessary for today’s jobs. I’ll be hosting my town hall meetings from Feb. 15 to March 8 to discuss the state budget process and how I can better represent Central New York. Attending these meetings is a great way for your voice to be heard, as it gives me a chance to listen to and talk with community members in person about the issues that matter to them. I encourage everyone who can to attend. The town hall meetings will take place on: Thursday, Feb. 15
6:30 p.m.
Clay Town Hall
4401 State Rt. 31 Wednesday, Feb. 28
6:30 p.m.
Cicero North Onondaga Public Library
8686 Knowledge Lane Thursday, March 1
6:30 p.m.
Minoa Village Hall
240 N. Main St. Thursday, March 8
6:30 p.m.
Town of Tully Justice Court
5833 Meeting House Road If you’re unable to attend one of the upcoming meetings or have questions about them or another community issue, please feel free to contact me at stirpea@assembly.gov by calling 315-452-1115 or by visiting my district office at 7293 Buckley Road, Suite 201, N. Syracuse.