Links Roundup – Inside New York State Edition
The Subsidy Tracker
Since the early 80’s, states and localities have increasingly been providing tax abatements and subsidies to promote economic development. The amounts disbursed and benefits realized have not always been clear, and when clear, not easily accessed. A new web site, The Subsidy Tracker, has assembled considerable data in an understandable format. It merits viewing.
http://www.goodjobsfirst.org/subsidy-tracker
ABO Review of Public Complaint
When, on occasion, the ABO investigates and exonerates, it merits attention. In February 2012, the ABO was asked to investigate the Monroe Industrial Development Agency concerning jobs transfer. The ABO found that although in some instances the documentation could have been better, the IDA did not violate the key elements of the General Municipal Law.
http://www.abo.ny.gov/reports/compliancereviews/COMIDAInvestigationOfComplaintFinalReport.pdf
LIPA Resolves First Amendment Issue
The operation of public authorities can give rise to unusual legal issues, but rarely do they implicate the First Amendment. Based on an interpretation from the ABO, LIPA has concluded that flags and other patriotic symbols can be temporarily affixed to authority property without a fee.
No fee ever again to put flags on LIPA poles
Shelter Island Reporter
“We worked with the NYS Authorities Budget Office who regulates us in this regard and received a letter opinion from them that changed their previous …
Amy Lavine
Patricia Salkin
Scott Fein
