June 2021 Meeting Highlights:
Fogarty Farms – The legislature recognized Fogarty Farms in Schaghticoke for being named a Century Farm by the New York State Agricultural Society, acknowledging their presence and persistence in the field for over 100 years. Fogarty Farms received High Quality Milk awards from 1993-1995, as well as the Gold Dairy Distinction Award for over 15 consecutive years.
What’s Great in Our State – The legislature also recognized Rensselaer County Mental Health Commissioner Katherine G. Alonge-Coons for receiving the 2021 “What’s Great in Our State” Lifetime Achievement Award from the state of New York. The Lifetime Achievement Award is given annually to recognize professionals and volunteers who have shown a lifetime commitment to strengthening the mental health of children, youth, and families.
Ballistic Vests for Social Workers – The legislature unanimously voted to purchase protective ballistic vests for the field workers in the Department of Social Services. Safety is the number one priority in regards to field work, and we are hopeful that other counties across the state will follow suit.
Coats for Kids – The legislature unanimously voted to enter a partnership with the Country Club of Troy to host a fundraiser raising money to buy winter coats for underprivileged children. The county and the country club are expecting to raise enough money to purchase a record 850-900 coats this year.
USDA Summer Food Program – The legislature unanimously voted to renew the county’s summer food program. The mission of the Summer Food Program is to ensure that all children under the age of 18 receive healthy meals during summer vacation.
Juneteenth – The legislature unanimously voted in favor of a resolution sponsored by the Minority to recognize Juneteenth as a holiday in Rensselaer County. This is a step in the right direction towards acknowledging the reality and long-running struggles of people of color at the county level.
NEXT MEETING – Tuesday, July 13, 2021 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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