We are pleased to announce that there will be no increase in village taxes for 1999/2000. This marks the 11th consecutive year at the same rate, making Farmingdale the only village in New York State to accomplish such an endeavor. In comparison, the statewide cumulative increase in village taxes has been approximately 91 percent for the same period.

The village board's effective management skills, conservative fiscal policies and strict zero-based budgeting practices certainly benefited the bottom line. The board prudently used grant funds, surplus and additional unbudgeted revenues to freeze the tax rate, despite a 4.3 percent increase in appropriations. In addition, New York State sets a maximum debt limit for villages so large purchases can be financed. Farmingdale is at a mere 3 percent of the limit. The state also sets a cap on the amount municipalities are allowed to tax residents and we are only at 19 percent of that amount.

We understand how difficult it is to live, work and raise a family here on Long Island because we are experiencing it firsthand. As a result, we've been creative and conscientious with the budget. For example, we were able to embark on an ambitious downtown revitalization plan and accomplish several improvement projects while at the same time holding the line on taxes. Deprivatization of services such as garbage collection and street lighting as well as purchasing equipment and commodities through state bids have also helped keep costs down. Making Farmingdale an affordable, family-centered village remains at the top of our agenda.

As we witness the dawn of a new century, you have our renewed commitment to fiscal responsibility and our pledge to keep quality of life in the forefront. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you might have on the '99/00 budget.

Joseph M. Trudden, Mayor