Mayor Buckley: It’s time for AIM funding to receive a much-needed boost
From the City of Hornell,
Mayor John Buckley reviewed the proposed status of Aid and Incentives for Municipalities (AIM) funding, as well as Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) at the City’s February Common Council meeting. The Council unanimously passed a resolution urging Governor Hochul to work with leaders of the State Senate and Assembly and increase AIM funding in the 2024-2025 adopted State budget. This call to action aligns with the advocacy of 370 New York Conference of Mayors (NYCOM) members who have also recently urged state leaders to increase this vital funding.
“AIM funding plays a critical role in supporting municipal services for cities and villages across the state, and municipalities have not seen an increase in AIM funding in 15 years. Considering the nearly 45% increase in inflation during this period, it’s time for AIM funding to receive a much-needed boost,” emphasized Mayor Buckley.
The resolution highlighted the mounting challenges faced by municipalities in maintaining affordability and ensuring public safety. Compounding these challenges, the Governor’s proposed budget also projects a $60 million decrease in CHIPS funding, exacerbating the strain on critical infrastructure.
Mitch Cornish, Superintendent of Public Works states, “The CHIPS funding is utilized for street paving, and we aim to pave about 10 streets per year. This proposed reduction would reduce paving by at least 2 streets, and set our paving cycle behind.” Cornish went on to note, “There’s no shortage of infrastructure needs, and the cost of everything from labor to supplies have increased dramatically. Residents will feel the reduction in CHIPS funding. Put simply, it means more potholes and less paving.”
Echoing similar sentiments, City Chamberlain Michele Smith states, “The City’s costs increase each year, and we depend on AIM and CHIPS to balance our budget. Increased funding for AIM, and restored CHIPS funding are vital to sustain essential services and to keep our City affordable.”
“The proposed budget that maintains flat AIM funding and reduces CHIPS is simply outrageous. Municipalities provide critical services on the front-lines that keep our state operational. From water and sewer services, to road and bridge repairs, to police and fire protection, municipalities provide the foundational services our communities require to function. Dollar-for-dollar, it’s the most prudent investment the state can make; these funding streams provide the necessary support, while easing the local taxpayer burden. We appreciate the messaging and support of New York Conference of Mayors (NYCOM) to keep this issue at the forefront and fight for effective change. It’s long overdue,” Mayor Buckley concluded.
