ALBANY – A $40 million competitive grant fund is available for local governments that have demonstrated recurring savings for taxpayers from streamlined operations and innovative, cost-cutting projects.  Established by Governor Andrew Cuomo and the Legislature in the 2011-12 State Budget, the $40 million competitive fund is an integral part of the Governor's agenda that will incentivize performance to reduce costs to local taxpayers. A Request for Applications was issued today by the New York Department of State (DOS).

"Since taking office in January 2011, my administration has focused on helping reduce the crushing local taxes that have burdened New York families and small businesses," Cuomo said. "These competitive grants will reward local governments that have taken the lead in reducing property taxes, streamlining government and making the communities of New York better places in which to live and work."

Projects eligible for awards must have commenced on or after January 1, 2010 and winning applicants will receive as much as $25 per resident, up to a maximum of $5 million.

The $40 million fund is available to counties, cities, towns and villages, which may apply individually or jointly. The amount of an award will be based on the municipality's population and the percentage of fiscal impact on the applicant's total government expenditures. Awards will be provided in three annual installments, disbursement of which will be contingent upon the demonstration of recurring savings.