BALDWIN PLACE – Assemblyman Gregory Ball, (R-Patterson) is calling for a tax revolt over the MTA’s recently begun payroll tax on Mid-Hudson counties within its region.

Ball gathered with a number of business people, Thursday, to blast the tax and the state legislature and governor for approving it.

The assemblyman, who recently dropped his congressional bid to instead challenge State Senator Vincent Leibell, called for creation of an escrow account with the payroll tax money going there instead of paying it directly to the state. He acknowledged that at some point, the state would force the money to be handed over to it.

“That battle is a battle I hope we can start,” he said. “I fully believe that Albany will come for their money, but forcing them to come get it will send off a battle cry that I believe will be heard nationally and will be the first of its king in a long time since we took on King George.”

Among those with Ball to protest the payroll tax was Yorktown Dr. Terrance Murphy.

Between his medical practice and family owned restaurant, the payroll tax is placing an extra burden on him.

“The MTA cannot control their own budget so they are asking the 12 counties north and east of New York City to pay for their out-of-control spending. And it’s completely unacceptable and they are jamming another tax down our throat, and I’m here to fight against it.”

Business people called for a repeal of the tax, but MTA CEO Jay Walder said the money is needed and they should not try to have it removed.