BUFFALO, N.Y. --- Erie County residents got the chance to offer their opinion on the county's proposed 20-13 budget Monday night.

Last month County Executive Mark Poloncarz presented his proposed budget to the legislature, that included a 3.4 percent property tax increase.

Monday, local officials voiced their support for the increase which could also mean additional funding for the library system and arts and culturals.

"We create jobs, attract talented professionals and give back to the community and return dividends to your investment," said Jant Castelo of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. "Though some may ask whether you should invest in the arts, I ask, 'how can you afford not to'?"

"Cuts to funding or operational hours would severely hinder the efforts being made to break the inter-generational cycle of poverty and illiteracy in our area," said Jennifer Westerholt of Literacy Volunteers.

If passed, the Poloncarz's budget would allocate more than $5 million for county arts and culturals.

The legislature has until December 15th to pass a budget.