HERKIMER, N.Y. (WKTV) - The Herkimer County Legislature held a public meeting on their 2013-2014 budget Wednesday night a week before legislators will vote on the proposal. The budget director says the proposed budget brings few changes, other than to a few programs including the county's Meals on Wheels program.

Herkimer County Budget Director Bernard Decker says the slight increase to the Meals on Wheels program is approximately $11,000.
Many legislators agree with increase to keep a program they see as well utilized in the county and very important.

"For our constituents I know a lot of people that's the only way they get to stay home instead of being in nursing home care," said Legislator Gary Hartman. "And it makes people comfortable and makes sure they eat well."

The proposed budget calls for an average tax increase of 0.9 % for Herkimer County residents.

It brings less funding to public health to account for changes already made but does increase the highway department's budget.

The significant increase seen is in retirement costs, increasing by approximately 15%, a factor the state controls.

Only one resident showed up to the public meeting Wednesday night, but many legislators took that as a sign of what they're calling a "conservative budget."

The Herkimer County Legislature will vote on the budget Wednesday, December 19th at 7:30 pm. at the Herkimer County Legislative Chambers on Mary Street.