Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon vetoed legislation on Friday that would have limited the county executive to three terms. He also vetoed another bill that would take away the executive's power to fill vacant legislative seats and hand that authority to the Legislature itself.
In his veto message, McMahon said the laws were not in the best interests of residents.
"Any change to the county charter needs robust dialogue and consensus between the legislative and executive branches of government," McMahon said.
Democrats don’t have the votes to override the veto. 12 votes would be needed to override, and Democrats have a 10-7 advantage in the Legislature. However, McMahon, a Republican, said that doesn’t mean there can’t be more discussions about the idea.
"What we have in front of us is an opportunity to hit the reset button," McMahon said. "Are you serious about the policy? Are you serious about getting it done? If you are, let’s have the conversation, let’s figure it out.”
Two new proposals have been put forth that would term-limit the county executive and the county comptroller. The Democratic proposal would set a limit of three four-year terms. A competing proposal from Republicans would limit terms to four four-year terms.
Legislature spokeswoman Ruthnie Angrand said Friday that Republicans and Democrats are actively talking about those proposals.
"Ultimately, the Legislature is going to do what it needs to do to make sure it cooperates and communicates to get these bills across the table," Angrand said. "That is their goal.”
New legislation on term limits for the county executive and comptroller is expected to be discussed at the county legislature's Ways and Means Committee meeting on June 24.
