By Cait Crudden
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) has unveiled a comprehensive capital budget plan for 2024, signaling a strategic investment in improving infrastructure, continued public safety, upgrades, and investments for the Suffolk County’s Board of Elections and economic development. With the county facing numerous challenges and opportunities, Romaine’s proposal aims to address critical needs while fostering long-term growth and resilience.
At the heart of Romaine’s capital budget is a focus on infrastructure renewal and modernization. Recognizing the importance of maintaining and improving roads, bridges, creating more sewer infrastructure and upgrading public facilities for quality of life, the proposed budget allocates significant funding for infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing safety, efficiency, and connectivity across the county. From road resurfacing and bridge repairs to wastewater treatment upgrades, Romaine’s plan prioritizes investments that will benefit residents and businesses alike.
In addition to infrastructure, public safety remains a top priority in Romaine’s budget proposal. With communities facing evolving threats and challenges, the county executive has earmarked resources for initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and emergency preparedness. This includes funding for law enforcement equipment, such as state of the art tasers and body cameras as well as new public safety vehicles. By investing in these critical areas, Romaine seeks to ensure that Suffolk County remains a safe and secure place to live, work, and raise a family.
The budget also includes significant investments for the Board of Elections for state-of-the-art voting machines to ensure election integrity.
“Changes in election law and questions in other areas regarding election fraud have caused us to move quickly to upgrade our systems and ensure fair and accurate election results in Suffolk County,” said Romaine.
Furthermore, Romaine’s capital budget reflects a commitment to economic development and job creation. Recognizing the importance of fostering a vibrant and resilient economy, the proposed budget includes funding for initiatives aimed at attracting new businesses, supporting small businesses, and revitalizing downtown areas. From infrastructure improvements to incentives for job creation and workforce development, Romaine’s plan seeks to lay out a foundation for sustainable economic growth and prosperity in Suffolk County.
The timing of Romaine’s capital budget proposal is particularly significant, as Suffolk County grapples with the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 Pandemic these past few years and its economic fallout. With businesses reopening and communities rebuilding, Romaine’s plan represents a strategic investment in the county’s future, positioning Suffolk for recovery and renewal in the years ahead.
While unveiling his timely capital budget proposal, Romaine emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility and prudent stewardship of taxpayer dollars. The budget of $488,760,526 was submitted to the Suffolk County Legislature on April 15, 2024, for review, suggested changes, adoption, and approval by the Legislature, after which it will be signed by the County Executive. It is expected to be finalized in June.
“This budget represents a smart investment into our infrastructure and county operations that will continue to make this county safer and more affordable,” Romaine stated.
As Romaine’s capital budget proposal moves forward for consideration by the Suffolk County Legislature, stakeholders and residents alike will be closely watching to see how it will shape the county’s trajectory in 2024 and beyond.
“I am proud of this budget,” said Romaine. “Every aspect, every dollar, benefits the taxpayers of this county. We are moving forward, preserving this county’s assets, improving quality of life, and keeping our streets safe. We are doing the work that the people expect from its government”.
With its focus on infrastructure, public safety, voter integrity, and economic development, Romaine’s plan has the potential to make a significant and positive impact on the lives of Suffolk County residents for years to come.
