Write-in candidate for Albion election worries about ‘aggressive tax increases’

Editor:

In recent weeks and months there have been many letters published here regarding the ever increasing tax burden on our community. The pace of these tax increases over the last few years has been very concerning to me.

Motivated by this, I’ve decided to offer myself as a write-in candidate for the Albion Village Board. The election is this coming Tuesday, March 19.

Involvement in this community has been an important part of my life going back many years. My siblings and I grew up participating in Orleans County 4-H programs, including various clubs, the Orleans County 4-H Fair, and other community activities throughout the year. After aging out of the youth program, I’ve remained actively involved as a volunteer with different programs and activities, especially the fair. After my beneficial experiences growing up in Orleans County 4-H, my wife and I wanted to put down roots where our family could continue to be involved.

We bought our house in the Village of Albion in 2021. While we’re very happy with our community and the experience of living here, the drain of aggressive tax increases over recent years has been a growing concern and disappointment.

Just since 2022, our combined town and county tax bill has increased almost 25%. Village taxes have increased just over 7% in the same time, and with the notice on the village website regarding a public hearing to exceed the property tax limit, I expect 2024-2025 will see another increase. Since billing for water service was re-structured, our quarterly bills are up nearly 50% from what they were originally.

These increases have fed a growing concern about the affordability of living in Albion. If the village and the county as a whole are going to be a place that people can afford to live, all  levels of local government need to pursue consolidation and shared services.

Pursuing increases in AIM funding, and an increase in sales tax revenue distributions from the county are also important. I’d be honored to have the opportunity to help advance these priorities and work for the good of the village community overall.

Write in William Gabalski for Albion Village Trustee on March 19.

William Gabalski

Albion