To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.

Then come back here and refresh the page.

UTICA, N.Y. -- The Utica Common Council has voted to override the two percent tax cap. Common Councilors approved the measure Wednesday with a supermajority vote of six to three.

The mayor introduced the budget Tuesday. It includes a 3.75 percent tax increase.

Some city leaders were hesitant about raising taxes, but others say the move was necessary to keep jobs in place and make sure services aren't cut.

"From the looks of it, there's no cuts, he's maintaining all the services. And to me that's the most important thing where people aren't losing their jobs and we still have the services out there," Rocco Giruzzi said.

"We can't take away service any longer. I'm firm on staying under two percent when I vote on that budget, but for now, I can't cut one more jobs out of public safety, it's just too much,” Joe Marino said.

Marino was originally in favor of upholding the tax cap, but ultimately voted to override it.