VLT Aid restored to budget process

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. » Saratoga Springs Commissioner of Finance Michele Madigan reported Tuesday the City of Saratoga Springs received news that the elimination of VLT aid to all municipalities outside of Yonkers was rejected/omitted by the NYS Assembly and Senate.

Madigan stated the restoration of VLT Impact Aid in the 2020-2021 State Budget is a positive outcome at this stage in the state budget process especially the City attempts to manage through COVID-19 related fiscal uncertainties and hard choices confronting the City.

Madigan expressed thanks to Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner and colleagues Mayor Meg Kelly and Commissioner of Public Safety Robin Dalton for their efforts to protect this crucial reve

nue stream for Saratoga Springs.

“As I have previously stated, the Finance Department is working closely with the entire City government to minimize any disruption to essential City services and to protect our employees, citizens, and taxpayers. The restoration of VLT Impact Aid - which is approximately 4.27% of our projected revenues for the year - will help us to meet these challenges,” Madigan said.

The need for support covering the costs of hosting VLT facilities will continue for as long Saratoga Springs hosts these facilities, and given the current economy, this aid will be critical to our ability to protect the health, safety, and welfare of our citizens, visitors, and taxpayers.”