Leaner more efficent government continues to benefit taxpayers

In 2004, Schenectady County Democrats set out to do what some said was impossible - continue to provide quality services to county residents while lowering the burden on taxpayers. Through innovative programs, they have done just that. One perfect example of this new kind of thinking is the County's bonus waiver reforms put in place in 2005.

County Legislative Chairwoman Susan E. Savage has announced that the County’s bonus waiver reforms will save taxpayers $1,501,000 in 2009, with total savings of $4,315,000 from 2005 through 2009.

“When I became Chair of the Legislature in 2004, this Legislature began progressive reforms to reduce healthcare costs which had been escalating at a double-digit rate,” said Chair Savage. “The first of many reforms was the implementation of the bonus waiver for health insurance. Beginning in 2005, employees who had health insurance coverage through a spouse or prior employment could choose to receive a $2,000 bonus for waiving County health insurance coverage. This bonus increased to $4,000 in 2008 and participation expanded. Beginning in 2008, the County also negotiated an end to the wasteful practice of dual enrollment of spouses who both worked for the County and granted those couples a 50% bonus waiver. The results have been remarkable, with annual savings now topping $1.5 million.”Click here for more information.