PRESS RELEASE
March 11, 2008

Majority Comments on State of the County Address

Legislators Worry About Effects of Chaos w/ Governor

Members of the majority in the Rensselaer County Legislature reacted favorably to the 2008 State of the County address by County Executive Kathleen Jimino, but said they are concerned the ongoing chaos involving Governor Spitzer could hurt chances for mandate relief.

Republican legislators had been seeking relief of state mandates and restoration of state reimbursements. County budget officials estimated the costs shifted to the county by the governor’s 2008-2009 totals more than $4 million.

Legislators have also been seeking additional state aid for the $50 million county jail expansion project and permission from the state to possibly use the Hudson and Mt. McGregor state prisons for overflows of prisoners in the region.

Out of control state mandates were addressed in detail by Jimino in her annual address to legislators. Legislators have adopted numerous resolutions in 2007 and 2008 requesting Governor Spitzer to reform state mandates and provide other relief.

“We were hopeful we would see some progress in reforming state mandates. But the scandal involving the governor may really hurt the budget process and any chance of mandate relief,” said Chairman of the Legislature Neil J. Kelleher.

“It’s disappointing that this scandal may hurt any chance we have of getting additional state aid for the jail expansion project. We are worried that the issues that need real attention from the state’s top official won’t get addressed,” added Vice Chairman Thomas Walsh Sr.

Legislators said economic activity in the county remain relatively strong and say they are encouraged with growth in retail sector in the county along with expansion of the RPI Technology Park in North Greenbush.

“There are businesses and employers coming to Rensselaer County or looking to locate here. That is good news and definitely shows the county is heading in the right direction,” said Legislator Martin Reid.

Farmland protection will also continue to be a priority during 2008, with the county receiving state funding for eight farmland protection efforts during the past several years. County Executive Jimino acknowledged the efforts of Legislator Ken Herrington in helping start the farmland protection efforts.

“I appreciate the County Executive’s acknowledgement of our efforts with farmland protection efforts. We look forward to protecting more acreage in 2008,” said Herrington.

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