Statement from Broome County Legislature Chairman Daniel J. Reynolds on Jason Garnar's misleading comments regarding the County's financial condition

(Binghamton, NY) - "Unfortunately, the County Executive continues to make misleading public comments regarding the County's financial condition," said Chairman Dan J. Reynolds. "For anyone to imply that the County was nearing bankruptcy in 2016 shows a clear lack of understanding of Government finance. At the end of 2016, far from these bankruptcy claims:

• Broome County has an average daily amount of $80 to $90 Million in cash on-hand at any given time.
• Broome County had over $540 Million available in borrowing power.
• Broome County government owned nearly 1/2 billion dollars in assets.
• Broome County departments had over $10 million in unrestricted funds that could have been accessed in an emergency.

The fact is that the Legislature restored the Fair Share 50/50 sales tax revenue split to our partner municipalities, over the objections of the then incoming County Executive, as part of the normal budget process. The County Executive's recent politically motivated comments are reckless and damaging to the County's overall fiscal health and potential economic development possibilities. The residents of Broome County deserve better."

Broome County Clerk Joseph Mihalko Issues Fraud Alert to Help Residents Avoid Scammers

(Binghamton, NY) This morning, Republican Broome County Clerk Joseph Mihalko issued a fraud alert, warning individuals and businesses of potential email scams. Some concerned citizens have reported emails about alleged traffic violations that can only be paid online with a credit card. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles does not accept payments for local traffic violations. Instead, they are handled at the local municipal level.

“It’s unfortunate that fraudsters are posing as local and New York State DMV personnel to scam innocent people of money over email. These emails and the links within them may contain viruses and other malware,” said County Clerk Joe Mihalko.

“If you had a traffic violation, you would get an official document through the mail from a local court or municipality. Citizens should be cautious about emails claiming to be from local or NYS DMV, and to take the time to research. If you receive a suspicious email asking you to pay money online for alleged traffic violations, do not hesitate to contact the Clerk’s Office at clerkinfo@co.broome.ny.us and we can let you know whether or not it is legitimate.”