Earlier this week, I attended an information session hosted by Commerce Chenango. For roughly an hour, a group of local business people, elected officials and I listened to Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb talk about the need for reform of our state government.

On this point, I wholeheartedly agree with the esteemed assemblyman. We see examples all around us of the inefficiencies and ineffectiveness of our state government. Some would even call it dysfunctional. Despite the worst recession – or depression, call it what you like – in the better part of a century, our Governor-by-default crafted a budget which seemed destined to drive our economy and our state even further into the hole. And as evidenced by the mid-year budget crisis and Paterson’s recent decision to freeze spending – he accomplished just that.

Despite preaching budget cuts last year, he increased spending. And piled even more taxes and fees on the backs of New York’s already overburdened taxpayers. $10 billion in new spending, and $8.5 million in new taxes and fees. What has it gotten us? A multi-billion dollar mid-year deficit, and the promise of more of the same to come.

As Kolb said Tuesday, “There is small solace in saying ‘I told you so.’”

It’s almost like Paterson is playing chicken with businesses and property owners. I have to wonder, is he trying to see just how high taxes can be raised before he drives everybody out?