Senator Gallivan Defends Local Communities Against Potential Loss of State Aid

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) is defending local cities, towns and villages which depend on funding from New York State through the Aid and Incentives for Municipalities (AIM) program and the Consolidated Local Streets and Highways Improvement Program (CHIPs). 

The state recently announced it is withholding millions of dollars in AIM funding to a dozen cities, including Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse.  The total, which represents 20-percent of AIM funding, is being withheld as the state faces severe financial difficulty because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The financial challenges of the state cannot be placed on the backs of local municipalities,” Senator Gallivan said.  “AIM funding is used to help provide critical local services such as police, fire and sanitation.  The state must live up to its commitment and ensure that the funding promised to these communities is delivered as scheduled.”

Senator Gallivan is also concerned about potential delays or reductions in CHIPs funding, which local governments depend on for road and bridge projects. 

“The financial condition of these municipalities is already stressed and any further loss of funding will have a devastating impact on their ability to provide services to residents.”

Senator Gallivan has written letters to the director of the New York State Division of the Budget outlining his concern and opposition to any delays or reductions in state aid.