ELIZABETHTOWN -- It's been a harsh winter, but Essex County has decided to give towns a little less of a promised incentive to remove snow and ice from county roads.

After first agreeing to pay each town 25 percent more, the County Board of Supervisors lopped 5 percent off that Monday and settled on 20 percent.

A final vote is at 10 a.m. next Monday at supervisors chambers in Elizabethtown.

BUDGET CONCERNS

Supervisor Thomas Scozzafava (R-Moriah) said the county is strapped for cash and can't afford the 25-percent incentive.

"Even though we have a healthy fund balance, I am somewhat concerned. The sales tax is dropping; it's about $4,000 right now less than last year."

He said the extra money will be paid by taxpayers no matter who pays it.

"We have shifted this burden from the town to the county. I do support this reimbursement because of the difficulty every town has had this winter."

He said the Moriah Town Highway Department went 22 percent over last year's costs this winter.

Scozzafava said the money could be paid to towns from the county's unexpended fund balance from last year, but 20 percent would better maintain their cash reserves.

"I believe that would be a fair reimbursement to the municipality. It keeps a healthy fund balance" for the county.

Supervisor Daniel Connell (D-Westport) said he also believes 20 percent is better than 25.

"It's all coming from the taxpayers, no matter how we do it. I totally agree" with 20 percent.

Supervisor Dale French (R-Crown Point) said the new state budget has many cuts in it for counties.

"With the state budget the way it is, I agree" with 20 percent.