New York State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin says she is looking forward to receiving a request made by the three Republican New Rochelle City Council members for a home bill concerning the New Rochelle IDA.

"The request is a little preliminary," said Paulin. "Except for emergency measures, the State Assembly is not resuming session until January but I am always interested in reform."

The home rule request comes in the wake of a scathing audit by the New York State comptroller that found a complete lack of process and accountability at the controversial city agency.

"I think IDA's across the state need reform," said Paulin, a consistent advocate for greater accountability and transparency in government.

Final State Budget Plan Includes Billions in Tax Increases and School Aid Cuts – Still No Cap on Local Property Taxes

WHITE PLAINS – State Senate candidate Bob Cohen (R,I,C – 37th District) today expressed deep disappointment in Senator Oppenheimer and her Democratic colleagues in the Legislature for adopting a late budget that includes $4 billion in new taxes while cutting $1.4 billion in state aid to schools.

“Somehow Senator Oppenheimer and her allies in the Legislature have contrived a spending scheme that includes increases in taxes and overall spending, but reduces state aid to schools,” said Cohen. “Even in the midst of a financial crisis they cannot get their priorities straight.”

The final budget eliminates tax credits for business, suspends the sales tax exemption on clothing, and allows state and local governments to borrow from the state pension fund to make required contributions to the same fund – resulting in a hidden $1,300 tax on homeowners outside New York City. Missing in the final plan is the reinstatement of $1.4 billion in state school aid previously cut and a cap on out-of-control local school property taxes.

Taxpayers Paid an Extra $230 for Senator to Drive to Albany and ‘Work’ for 12 Minutes

WHITE PLAINS – State Senate candidate Bob Cohen (R,I,C – 37th District) today blamed Senator Oppenheimer and her colleagues in the Senate leadership for the lack of a single accomplishment in the special session called by the Governor this week. Because of a parliamentary procedure that allows the Democratic majority to gavel into session and immediately gavel out without taking up a single bill, Senator Oppenheimer took a futile, all expenses paid trip to Albany courtesy of taxpayers.

“There is a lot of unfinished business that could have been taken care of – not the least of which being a property tax cap,” said Cohen. “But Senator Oppenheimer and her allies in the Democratic leadership chose to block the Governor’s agenda, take no actions of their own, and enjoy a free trip to Albany at taxpayer expense.”

Cohen noted that in addition to the property tax cap, there were several other important bills on the Governor’s agenda, including an extension of the Power for Jobs program and a proposed budget contingency plan should the state not receive $1 billion in federal Medicaid (FMAP) assistance.

New Rochelle's own Norman Rockwell paints a telling image.

"When those in power seek to intimidate opponents, it is essential that the rest of us stand up and shout no, you can’t do this. Speaking truth to power is essential if we are to preserve our liberties."(Ed Koch in an article from the World Tribune)

If you had the opportunity to hear the latest interview with Bob Marrone and New Rochelle Councilwoman Marianne Sussman, would it surprise you to hear a city official blame, chastise, or otherwise condemn the affable host for allowing people to call into the show and express their opinion? From my own experience, Bob has ALWAYS afforded the utmost in courtesy, openness and freedom towards the councilwoman in allowing her views to be shared with the public. A completely open platform for her own agenda.

In case you haven't heard of the latest sneak attack to destroy the Armory, or the backlash from citizens, all resulting in Senators and members of the Assembly alike scrambling to put distance between themselves and our very own Mayor, well now would be a good time to review. In reading the stories above, you'll see the mayors attempt to move legislation forward, on his own behalf, without the "courtesy" of notifying the complete city council. Talk about backfiring! Within, 36 hours (impressive considering this happened over a weekend} , Senators Klein and Oppenheimer, along with Assembly Members Latimer and Paulin told constituents they would not proceed with the pending legislation. To his credit, Senator Klein was reported as saying he was told ( by Mayor Bramson himself)the Armory issues were resolved. Also to his credit, he felt it important enough to actively remove his name from the bill. A small gesture, but not unnoticed. The rest left their names on, to presumably let the bill "sunset" until next year. Mr. Latimer issued a lengthy statement revealing perhaps more than he intended.