Melanie Lekocevic is reporting for Capital Region Independent Media Coeymans town Supervisor George McHugh October 1, unveiled the town's proposed 2021 spending plan, which includes a 9.6 percent cut in the property tax rate. The town board will meet with department heads this weekend, and then hold a required public hearing to adjust any necessary changes. McHugh said he is pleased with the budget as it currently stands. “The 2021 tentative budget as proposed is balanced. It protects taxpayers and provides for vital services to our residents such as public safety, emergency management services, quality of life initiatives and contingency planning,” McHugh said. The proposal includes a reduction in the property tax rate from $2.91 for every $1,000 of assessed value in 2020, to $2.63 per $1,000 of assessed value in 2021, a decline of 9.6 percent, he said. General fund appropriations have been reduced by almost $332,000 compared to last year; the general fund is the largest part of the budget and includes general operating expenses for the town, with the exception of special funds such as water or sewer. No layoffs are planned and vital services will be maintained. Youth and summer recreation programs are also fully funded under the new budget, McHugh added. And a new Youth Court program will be implemented next year, with input from the Coeymans Police Department, Albany County Sheriff’s Office and school district. Read the full story in The Ravena News-Herald.