Utica Common Councilwoman Discusses City’s Fiscal Issues

If the deficit numbers coming from the Common Council are correct, Utica may be forced to make more difficult budgetary decisions.

"This is one of the most difficult times I think our city has ever, ever seen, and it is... it's sad."

That's sixth ward Councilwoman Samantha Colosimo-Testa, who helped reduce the city's nearly $8 million deficit last year.

She says vital city services, like firefighters, police and public workers, should be kept, but it all comes at a price.

"Is not raising taxes worth your quality of life," Colosimo-Testa said. "Let's bear the facts. If your house goes up in flames, can you take your house burning down to the ground and starting over again? Or can you take minimal damage because we were able to provide those services for you. Quality of life has to be looked at, you know, people's well-being over a couple of extra dollars to maintain that stability. It's a very, very, very tough situation."

Utica's financial problems have attracted the attention of State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, who will release the city's fiscal profile on Tuesday.