The Westchester County Board of Legislators approved a spending plan for 2008 Monday night, but some controversial stipend increases for the lawmakers themselves will remain on hold.

The budget passed 11-6, along party lines after the day?s discussion.

Critics of the plan are questioning increased stipends for lawmakers and increased property taxes for homeowners. Democrats who proposed the 25-33 percent increase in stipends for certain lawmakers, say they are in line with what other lawmakers in the metropolitan area are making. The nearly $2 billion plan also calls for a 4.7 percent increase in property taxes. The issue of raising the legislators? stipends will be considered again, Monday, Dec. 17. County Executive Andy Spano has 10 days to approve or veto the spending plan.