Orange County Legislature Unanimously Adopts $1.05 Billion 2026 Budget, Lowers Property Tax Rate
Orange County lawmakers unanimously adopted County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus’ 2026 budget on December 4, approving $1,046,951,165 in spending and setting the county tax rate at $2.013. The move, the latest in a decade of reductions, promises property tax relief for residents while funding essential services and infrastructure priorities.
The Orange County Legislature on December 4 voted unanimously to adopt the 2026 County Budget, approving $1,046,951,165 with a 20 to 0 vote. The County Tax Rate was set at $2.013, down from last year’s rate of $2.142, marking the lowest county property tax rate since the 1960s and the tenth consecutive year of declines.
County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus framed the budget as responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, saying, “The County’s 2026 budget once again shows steadfast stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Efficient and effective fiscal practices as well as the excellent working relationship that exists between my administration and the County Legislature contributed to the 2026 budget once again lowering County property taxes while remaining fiscally responsible and delivering essential services. This gives property tax relief to all residents, including seniors and struggling families. I am proud of my team in County Government and the County Legislature who work side by side to make sure the budget is developed in a responsible and sound manner.”
Budget Director Deborah Slesinski said the plan balances service needs with fiscal safeguards, stating, "Thank you to County Executive Neuhaus, the Legislature, and my team for their collaboration throughout this process. With the adoption of the 2026 Budget, we remain committed to fiscal responsibility, transparency, and supporting the services on which our residents rely. This budget is focused on sustaining essential services, investing in infrastructure, and making prudent financial decisions that will benefit the County now and in the future."
Local business leaders welcomed the tax relief as a boost for growth. “The continued reduction in the County’s property taxes in Orange County’s 2026 budget is a testament to the County’s strong and consistent commitment to supporting our local businesses,” said Heather Bell, President and CEO of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce. “County Executive Neuhaus, a champion of smart economic development, knows that lower taxes provide businesses with greater flexibility to invest, expand, and create jobs, while also attracting new companies. His excellent stewardship of our tax dollars and the support of the Orange County Legislature are real benefits to residents and businesses in our community.”
Legislative leadership emphasized continuity and prudence. “The 2026 budget delivers meaningful tax relief while maintaining fiscal responsibility and funding essential services that our residents need,” stated Chairman of the Legislature Kevin W. Hines. “By continuing to work effectively with the County Executive, the Legislature is committed to keeping Orange County on a strong financial course.”
Officials noted the budget remains within the New York State tax cap mandate. Since 2016 the county property tax rate has trended downward while assessed values rose by more than 100 percent, a dynamic that has helped maintain revenue even as rates fall. The 2026 plan also allocates $7 million in hotel occupancy tax, expected to support tourism and destination marketing.
Residents with questions or media seeking comment can contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to the County Executive and Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845-291-2700 or [email protected].
