In a demonstration of how local control can successfully manage and implement utility budgets, the South Farmingdale Water District (SFWD) announced that its new budget has no tax increases for residents.

This is the third consecutive year the SFWD contained costs and conserved tax dollars in the budget. The announcement is good news for taxpayers in a year of financial uncertainties, rising costs on basic commodities such as gasoline, and the struggles that Nassau County is having in trying to balance its budget.

Significantly, all current projects to improve efficiency and maintain high quality standards will stay in place, without compromise and without increased costs.

"Unfounded claims have been made that big government control will improve service and cut costs. There are major flaws in those assertions, and the new budget proves that local control means a high level of care, accountability, and efficiency," a statement from the Water District said.

Some little-known facts are that SFWD water rates are about 2 percent below the national average (source: American Water Works Associations) and that the consumers' water tax is less than 1.7 percent of their total tax bill.

Commissioner Ralph Atoria notes, "It is our fiscal responsibility as public servants to work within our budgets and protect our district and the local taxpayer. We've done this for over 75 years and we will continue to provide the same excellent service for years to come."

For more information contact the South Farmingdale Water District's office at 40 Langdon Rd., Farmingdale, NY 11735. Telephone: 249-3330, or visit www.sfwater.com.