SCHENECTADY, N.Y. -- Schenectady County's Legislature approved a 2013 budget that includes the first tax hike in three years. The budget passed by a 9 to 6 vote, but was amended to reduce the proposed tax levy from 7.49 percent, to 5.9 percent.

There had been some outcry on behalf of the public, with some saying that the initial tax increase was too much. The county included many cuts in its budget, in order to deal with the increase in state mandates, and retirement costs.

The nearly $300 million spending plan includes cuts to the library system. Also, three vacant positions will not be filled as a result.