My name is Steven Havey, an Allegany County Legislator
representing District 4, Andover, Ward and Wellsville. Recently there has been some confusion about
the county government that serves you. I’m not surprised. Sometimes the information you need is
difficult to find. Since I am finishing
up my second term, I thought that I would share some thoughts with you.
Your county government is made up of many departments, all
of which are vital to the safety, security and prosperity of our county. There is also an administrative group that
makes sure all the work the departments do is safe, legal and meets your goals.
There are also 15 legislators who are responsible for the policy and financial
direction that your county is headed.
These legislators are your “go to” people for your concerns, suggestions
and occasionally your support.
Some questions that I have been asked are about relate to
the legislators. I have been asked about
the character and honesty of your legislators.
In my experience, with few exceptions, your legislators are honest with
your best interests at heart. They are
hard working and view themselves as
“public servants”. I am asked about
the process for our decisions, both in policy and finance. All decisions start with an idea or
proposal. This proposal passes through
several committee meetings, with questions and debate before going to the Board
of Legislature as a resolution. One
final opportunity for debate is afforded before a vote. I have been asked about the role of County Treasurer
as it pertains to your taxes. The
Treasurer’s Office only pays the bills authorized by the Legislature and invest
funds on your behalf. The responsibility
for county taxes falls to the Legislature.
While we are on the topic, your legislature has lowered your “tax rate
per thousand dollars of assessed value” for the last 15 years. We are doing our part for you.
Also, since I live in Wellsville, I was asked about the
impact of the recent property re-evaluation on taxpayers. To be honest, this just came up so I haven’t
had an opportunity to research it thoroughly. I can tell you what I know and
what I believe on this subject. This is
the first re-evaluation of Wellsville properties in about ten years. The property values of 2015 were vastly
different than they are today. I’m not
surprised that the notices you received might have been a little
startling. Please understand that an
increase in your assessed property value due to a re-val does not guarantee a
tax increase of the same size. The
notice that you received will give you an estimated tax amount. In reality, some home owners will see little
change while others will see an increase or even a decrease in their property
tax. I do not see this re-evaluation and
its related taxes forcing people out of their homes or causing small businesses
to close. Also, if you are unhappy with
your new assessment, there are mechanisms to correct that. Please contact me if
you think I could help.
Steve Havey steven.havey@alleganyco.gov
