Senator Samra Brouk’s 5th Annual Executive Budget Forum

(ROCHESTER, NY) January 28, 2025: Last night, Senator Samra Brouk (SD-55) co-hosted her 5th Annual Executive Budget Forum along with Assemblymember Sarah Clark (AD- 136) and Demond Meeks (AD-137). The budget forum can be viewed on Senator Brouk’s Facebook page. The forum brought together over 90 registrants including local organizations, community leaders, and constituents– allowing them to voice their thoughts on Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposed FY 2026 Executive State Budget.

Community members from different backgrounds and organizations– such as LifeSpan, Elder Justice Committee of Metro Justice, and Marvelous Minds– brought up issues that are important to them, including services for older adults and the aging population, funding for Licensed Creative Art Therapists (LCATs), expanding childcare, improving the lives of low income families, and supporting resources for mental health.

Senator Samra Brouk (SD 55): “I want to thank our community members for participating in our annual budget forum. As an elected official, it is my privilege and duty to hear about my community’s most pressing concerns. Although we will face challenges and roadblocks at the federal level, I will fight to secure critical funding in the New York State budget. My colleagues and I will continue to be your voice in Albany by supporting anti-poverty funding, expanding access to mental health resources, and uplifting our young people.” 

Assemblymember Sarah Clark (AD-136): “The New York State budget is a reflection of our priorities and values as a community, and should be driven by the people we serve. Now that Governor Hochul's executive budget proposal has been released, we must do the hard work in the Assembly to respond on behalf of our constituencies to create our One House budget. As we navigate a radically changing landscape at the federal level, we must center everyday New Yorkers first. We have an opportunity to bolster our caring economy, transform childcare, defend our ambitious climate goals, and create a New York that works for everyone, not just the privileged among us. I am grateful to my colleagues and everyone who participated in our budget hearing, and look forward to continuing to hear from community stakeholders over the next few weeks.”

Assemblymember Demond Meeks (AD-137): "We thank all the community members who joined this important forum and shared their insights, ideas, and concerns regarding the Governor's Executive State Budget.  Your voices are critical in shaping a budget that truly meets the needs of our community. Our delegation will advocate for necessary changes and improvements, using the input gathered here to push for a better Rochester.  Your engagement is critical to driving meaningful change, and we are grateful for your participation."