The following are highlights of the January meeting:
Aging – The NYS Office for the Aging awarded Rensselaer County grant funding for the NY Connects Program. This program offers free, unbiased information regarding long term care services and supports, such as home care, transportation and meals with the goal of helping people live independently in their homes for as long as possible.
Environment – The Legislature unanimously adopted a resolution supporting the NYS Drinking Water Quality Council’s maximum contaminant levels recommendations in our drinking water. Many of our communities have suffered with ground water contamination. NYS Health Commissioner Howard Zucker will consider the recommendations and commence a 60 day public comment period. We hope the 2019 NYS Budget includes the necessary funding.
Health – The legislature approved needed funding for opioid recovery programs. These funds will be shared by the Department of Health, Mental Health and the Bureau of Public Safety. The Department of Health and Mental Health provide training for certified recovery peer advocates; these advocates have shown to help addicts transition into a healthy lifestyle free of addiction. The Bureau of Public Safety will receive funding to train EMS personnel in the use of Naxolone and other methods to treat opioid overdoses.
Veterans – A Local Law updating property tax exemptions for Veterans was unanimously approved, allowing all those from Rensselaer County, who have served our country in the military, to realize this benefit.
The Rensselaer County Legislature members presented resolutions honoring Country True Value Hardware & Rental on their 40th Anniversary, as well as a resolution honoring the former mayor of the City of Rensselaer, the Honorable Daniel J. Dwyer.
NEXT MEETING – Tuesday, February 12, 2019 in the Rensselaer County Chambers located on the 3rd floor of the Ned Pattison Government Center, 1600 7th Avenue, Troy.
Residents are welcome to contact our office at 270-2890.
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