FOR RELEASE:

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli met with Senator Joseph A. Griffo (R, C, IP- Oneida, Lewis and St. Lawrence), Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi (D-Utica), Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri and Rome Mayor Joseph Fusco last week in Albany to discuss issues facing the cities of Utica and Rome, as well as ways in which the Comptroller's Office can provide assistance.

"As Mayors Palmieri and Fusco know all too well, New York's cities face rising costs and an increased demand for services, while at the same time they are dealing with implementing the state's new property tax cap law," DiNapoli said. "My office will continue to dedicate its local government resources to assist officials as they confront these challenges. I look forward to partnering with the mayors to improve government efficiency."

As New York State's fiscal officer, the Comptroller oversees the financial affairs of local governments. In response to last year's enactment of a statewide property tax cap law, the Comptroller recently deployed more than 200 auditors to review the compliance of nearly 800 municipalities. DiNapoli's office has also provided technical assistance and training to more than 3,400 local officials across the state. DiNapoli also hosts two Local Government Leadership Institute conferences each year to inform and challenge local government leaders through constructive engagement on regional issues of common concern, while reinforcing key leadership principles throughout each program.

Senator Griffo said, "I was pleased to be able to help facilitate the meeting between Comptroller DiNapoli and Mayors Fusco and Palmieri. As a former Mayor, I'm very familiar with the challenges that small cities, like Utica and Rome, are facing. It was a productive meeting in that the two Mayors were able to speak their concerns and that Comptroller DiNapoli listened, offered ideas, and discussed ways that his office could assist both cities. We look forward to continue forging a positive working partnership with his office."

Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi (D-Utica) said, "I am pleased that Comptroller DiNapoli will work with the mayors of Utica and Rome to find solutions to the difficult task they face managing their cities' budgets during this time of economic uncertainty. It is only through a collaborative approach with officials at all levels of government that we can find creative ways to provide services without raising taxes."

Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri said, "The State Comptroller obviously understands the challenge facing the people of the City of Utica. Tom DiNapoli and his staff share our sense of urgency and will be indispensable to helping us get through the worst financial conditions the City has ever experienced."

Rome Mayor Joseph Fusco said, "I was pleased to meet with Comptroller DiNapoli and his staff this week and thank him for taking the time to do so. I look forward to working not only with the Comptroller, but also with my counterpart Mayor Robert Palmieri in Utica as we take these issues on in a regional sense."