MAYVILLE – Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel will be announcing his proposed budget for 2025 on Wednesday. While the details of the spending plan are not being released beforehand, the county executive is going on record saying it will not include an increase in the property tax rate.

In a news release, Wendel said he will unveil his comprehensive vision for the county’s financial future in his 2025 Tentative Executive Budget Presentation next week, outlining key investments, fiscal responsibility, and strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening the community and maintaining economic stability.

“The 2025 budget is about responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars,” Wendel said in the release. “We’re committed to a conservative fiscal approach that balances necessary investments with thoughtful restraint. Despite the challenges of rising unfunded mandates and inflationary pressures, we have structured this budget to ensure that Chautauqua County remains on solid financial footing without overburdening our residents.”

After issuing the news release, Wendel declined to comment specifics, other than saying it will not increase the property tax rate.

Every year since Wendel has been in the county executive’s office he has proposed a budget with a lower property tax rate than the year before.

In 2023, Wendel proposed a $6.91 per $1,000 assessed valuation. That was 89 cents lower than the previous year. He did, however, propose an increase in the levy. The levy is the amount collected by taxes.

As part of Wendel’s address Wednesday, he said he will outline the county’s efforts to “manage uncontrollable expenses” such as Medicaid, foster care, and mandated services, while continuing to “deliver essential programs and services to the community.”

“Our administration has worked hard to keep the tax levy below the rate of inflation, ensuring that we can continue to provide the essential services our residents rely on,” Wendel said. “This budget is a reflection of our commitment to investing in the future of Chautauqua County while making prudent financial decisions today.”

Wendel said his proposed budget will also emphasize the continuation of major capital projects.

“This is more than just a budget – it’s a blueprint for building a stronger, more resilient Chautauqua County,” Wendel stated. “The choices we make today will help ensure a brighter future for our county’s residents and businesses.”

Wednesday’s budget presentation will take place at 6:30 p.m. in the Chautauqua County Legislative Chambers located at 3 N. Erie St., Mayville. The address is open to the public, and residents are invited to attend in person or watch the live stream on YouTube at: youtube.com/@ChautauquaCounty.