ALBANY — The state Legislature Thursday rejected a planned cut in aid to local municipalities, restoring a $18 million reduction sought by Gov. In addition, the 2008-09 budget is expected to include more than $50 million in one-time cash advances for another eight cities, including Rochester, Yonkers and White Plains. Yonkers Mayor Philip Amicone was asking lawmakers for $50 million in additional state aid to close an expected $48 million budget gap in the 2008-09 fiscal year, which for cities begin July 1. Lawmakers need to approve the plan by Monday for the city to receive $354 million in federal money for transportation upgrades. read more

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