Legislature Urges County Executive to Stand Up for Onondaga County’s Independence

Members of the Republican Caucus of the Onondaga County Legislature have authorized County Executive McMahon to pursue legal action opposing New York State’s latest overreach against the County’s constitutional and chartered independence.

“Albany is continually overstepping and this time they’ve gone too far,” said newly-elected Chairman Tim Burtis. “We believe combining most local, state and federal elections to even years violates the Onondaga County Charter and the Constitution of the State of New York.”

New York’s constitution makes ‘chartered’ counties independently controlled. The Onondaga County Charter, which was approved by voters in 1961, defines how the County is run as well as its independence from state control. The charter also establishes when most County elections take place.

Many view the new law as a bold attempt to dismantle Onondaga County’s legal independence without due process. Important local issues will be overshadowed by high profile state and federal issues during elections. If taking chartered counties’ independence was the goal, a constitutional amendment decided by voters would have been the only noble approach for Albany.

“Local government provides real, tangible services that support residents’ safety, well-being and quality of life,” said Republican Majority Leader Brian May. “Regardless of political affiliation, we hope residents will recognize the negative impact of the State’s attempt to undermine local government at all levels.”

Criminal justice and bail reforms, intercepting Medicaid funding for counties, farm labor laws and the recent attempt to take over town and village planning are recent examples of how Albany chooses political control over the true needs of residents.

“Our position is about defending the Onondaga County Charter and protecting the rights of Onondaga County residents,” said Burtis.

The resolution was approved at the February Session.