Oneida County Board of Legislators Approves 2027 Budget with No Increase to Property Tax Levy

The Oneida County Board of Legislators today approved County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr.’s 2027 operating budget and capital plan, maintaining no increase to the County property tax levy while continuing strategic investments in the community’s future.

The approved operating budget totals just over $577 million, while the capital plan retires nearly $19 million in existing debt and calls for approximately $17.9 million in new borrowing.

“Today's approval represents a responsible path forward for Oneida County, one that protects taxpayers while ensuring we have the resources to meet our obligations and invest in the priorities that matter to our residents,” Picente said. “We have maintained a flat property tax levy, continued to reduce the tax rate and made strategic investments in housing, infrastructure, public safety and economic development. This budget reflects the fiscal discipline and forward-thinking approach that have helped make Oneida County stronger.”

Since 2013, the County’s tax rate on full valuation has fallen from $7.06 per $1,000 of market value to $3.95 in 2027, a decrease of more than 6% from the 2026 rate of $4.21. During the same period, total taxable property value in Oneida County has grown from just over $10 billion to nearly $21 billion.

Housing remains a major priority in the approved budget as the County works toward its goal of creating 6,000 new housing units by 2040. The budget establishes funding for a housing division within the County Planning Department and includes $2 million in a restricted fund to implement recommendations developed by the County’s newly-formed housing team in early 2027.

The County will also continue investments in critical infrastructure and core services, including $27 million for the Water Pollution Plant, $24 million for the County Road Fund and $15 million for economic development. The budget sustains support for community partners including Cornell Cooperative Extension, Mohawk Valley EDGE, local humane societies, libraries and Mohawk Valley Community College.

The budget addresses continued cost pressures, including state and federal mandates, higher fuel, equipment and utility costs and the County’s growing responsibilities for programs such as SNAP and HEAP. It also includes reductions of up to 12% for certain outside agencies as the County works to control costs while maintaining essential services. Discretionary spending is down $200,000 from 2026.

“This is my 20th budget, and the experience I have gained over those years reinforces the importance of making sound financial decisions while never losing sight of where we want to go as a community,” Picente said. “The Oneida County of today is stronger and more fiscally sound than it was 20 years ago because we made the commitment to invest, grow and plan for the future. I appreciate the Board of Legislators’ approval and look forward to continuing that work together.”