NORWICH – Chenango County is poised to step in and fill a $75,000 hole left when New York State pulled back its Empire State Development funding this year.

Acting on a referral from the planning & economic development committee, members of the county’s finance committee agreed Wednesday to increase taxpayer dollars in Commerce Chenango’s 2010 budget by $30,000. The move awaits the full board’s approval later on during this budgeting season.

“The additional funds being provided by the county will assist us in filling a gap that state cutbacks have created, and allow us to maintain an appropriate level of service for our local businesses, to seek new opportunities, and assist individuals looking to start a small business,” said Commerce Chenango President Maureen Carpenter. “I am very grateful to both (committees) for their support of our county’s economic development program.”