Cut the Sales Tax.
Put Money Back in Your Pocket.
Oneida County's sales tax sits at 8.75% — one of the highest in the region. Tom's first priority is an immediate 0.25% cut, bringing it down to 8.50%. No conditions. No waiting. Just relief.
Every time you buy groceries, fill your gas tank, or shop local, you're paying that extra quarter percent. It adds up fast for working families — and it's time government gave it back.
Why It Matters
- ✓ Immediate savings on every purchase
- ✓ Keeps more dollars in the local economy
- ✓ Makes Oneida County more competitive for businesses
- ✓ First step toward a leaner, more efficient county government
Return Power to the People.
End Permanent "Temporary" Taxes.
Remember the "temporary" 0.25% sales tax hike from the 1990s to upgrade the 911 center? It's still here — just like the "temporary" tolls on the Thruway. Tom's Voter-Controlled Spending plan makes sure that never happens again.
Here's how it works: When the county needs to fund a major project, a dedicated 0.25% Project Fund can be added to the sales tax — but only if voters approve it directly. Once the project is complete, the tax automatically sunsets. No extensions. No loopholes. No more blank checks.
Voter Approved
No project fund is created without a direct public vote. Your money, your decision — full stop.
Project-Specific
Every fund is tied to one specific project. No redirecting. No mission creep. No blank checks.
Mandatory Sunset
When the project ends, the tax ends — automatically. No votes needed to kill it. It simply expires.
"When a promise is made to voters, it should be kept. Temporary means temporary."
— Tom Theall
Stop the Post-Holiday
Tax Gut-Punch.
Right now, Oneida County property owners get hit with their full county tax bill shortly after the holidays — one of the tightest financial moments of the year. Tom will champion a semiannual payment plan so taxpayers can split their bill into two manageable payments and budget on their own terms.
You already manage your mortgage, utilities, and insurance in monthly or quarterly payments. Your county tax bill should work the same way. This is about treating taxpayers like adults — not forcing a lump-sum payment when families are already stretched thin.
Current System
Tom's Proposed Plan
A Property Tax Exemption
for Volunteer Firefighters.
Volunteer firefighters risk their lives to protect our homes, our businesses, and our families — often with no pay and at great personal sacrifice. Counties across New York State have recognized this with property tax exemptions for volunteer firefighters. Tom will champion bringing that same recognition to Oneida County.
These men and women answer the call at 2 a.m. They leave their families, their jobs, and their holidays to serve their neighbors. The least we can do is give them a break on their property taxes. It's not a handout — it's a thank-you that's long overdue.
Volunteer Service
Active volunteer firefighters who serve their local departments would qualify for a partial property tax exemption on their county tax bill.
Already Working Elsewhere
Counties like Dutchess, Rockland, and others across New York have implemented similar exemptions — proving it works and is fiscally manageable.
Recruiting & Retention
Volunteer fire departments across Oneida County struggle to recruit and retain members. This exemption is a meaningful incentive to serve — and stay.
How It Would Work
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1Eligibility DefinedActive volunteer firefighters in good standing with a certified Oneida County department would qualify — with service requirements modeled on existing state and county frameworks.
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2Partial County Property Tax ExemptionQualifying volunteers would receive a percentage exemption on the county portion of their property tax bill — providing real, recurring savings for their service.
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3Annual CertificationDepartments certify active members each year, ensuring the exemption goes to those who are actively serving — not just those who once did.
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4Modeled on Proven ProgramsTom will work with other NY counties that have already implemented similar exemptions to craft a fiscally responsible version tailored to Oneida County's needs.
Frequently Asked
How much will the sales tax cut actually save me?
On $10,000 in taxable purchases per year — a modest estimate for a household — a 0.25% cut saves $25. For families and small businesses spending more, the savings compound. It also signals a government committed to spending discipline, not just revenue maximization.
Won't cutting the sales tax hurt county services?
Tom believes government should live within its means, not expand to consume available revenue. Efficiency audits, shared services with municipalities, and smarter procurement can offset the cut without reducing essential services.
What happens if voters reject a Project Fund proposal?
Nothing — the county finds another way to fund the project or doesn't proceed. Voter rejection is a legitimate outcome and a check on county government overreach. This is democracy working as intended.
Is semiannual tax payment common in New York?
Yes — many school districts and municipalities in New York already offer installment payment options. Tom's plan brings Oneida County in line with best practices that recognize taxpayers deserve flexibility.
When would these changes take effect?
Tom's plan is to introduce all four proposals in his first term. The sales tax cut and payment plan reform are straightforward legislative actions. The Voter-Controlled Spending framework requires a county resolution, and the firefighter exemption will be modeled on existing NY county programs.
Who qualifies for the volunteer firefighter exemption?
Active volunteer firefighters in good standing with a certified Oneida County fire department. Annual certification by the department ensures the exemption stays with those actively serving their community.
Will the firefighter exemption cost the county too much?
Similar programs in other New York counties have proven fiscally manageable. The cost is modest compared to the value of volunteer fire service — and far less than what it would cost to replace volunteers with paid staff.