When national surveys say that Westchester County taxpayers have the highest (or second highest) taxes in the country, many people blame the county government.

Did you know that county government’s taxes are only 15-18 percent of your property tax bill? To learn more about the break down of your taxes, watch our short animation.

Did you know that about 60 percent or more of the property taxes you pay go to support the school districts that Westchester is acclaimed for?

Did you know that Westchester would not have this dubious distinction if it were not for the fact that our property values are so high compared with the rest of the country?

Having said that, Westchester County government IS concerned about keeping the county portion of your taxes as low as possible.

County Executive Andy Spano's  budget for 2009 that actually cuts spending for next year – despite an increase of more than $20 million in energy costs  and mandated expenses. The county also faced a loss of $26 million in revenue due to the economic crisis.

Spano cut spending by eliminating vacant jobs, cutting overtime, equipment and supplies and by ending a subsidy to Playland, to name just a few things.