By Tyler A. McNeil/The Leaader-Herald ALBANY — The New York State Thruway Authority formally launched the year-long process of gathering public feedback on a proposed 2024 toll increase before putting it up for a final vote. NYSTA officials at a Monday board meeting pushed forward the first step in upping the fee for E-ZPass users 5% and 75% for tolls by mail. The hike proposal, which would be the first systemwide adjustment in 14 years, has faced blowback from lawmakers since the agenda was released last week. “This is safety,” said NYSTA Board of Directors Chairwoman Joanne Mahoney during the…