In a continuing effort to cut the size of government, County Legislators John J. Ciotti and Vincent Muscarella voted for an early retirement measure that could save taxpayers an estimated $12 million in fiscal year 2001.

"I am pleased to have supported the early retirement program to continue to cut the size of government. According to the Office of Legislative Budget Review this program could save taxpayers $12 million in fiscal year 2001," said Legislator Ciotti.

"This program is important as it will allow us to achieve substantial savings while we continue to improve the county's fiscal stability," noted Legislator Muscarella.

Over the past five years more than 1100 employees have opted to leave county service as the result of this ongoing early retirement program. It is estimated that this program will cut the number of employees by an additional 200 positions.