Monthly Report – September 2023
Board of Elections – The Minority Legislators introduced a resolution (P/372/23) urging the Republican Majority to fill the eight-month long vacancy of the Commissioner’s position in the Board of Elections. Republican Commissioner Jason Schofield was indicted and arrested on federal charges of voter fraud in September 2022, and pled guilty to 12 counts of voter fraud on January 11, 2023; he resigned on December 28, 2022, and his position has remained vacant ever since. NYS Election Law 3-204 requires that the position be filled to maintain the functional and bipartisan nature of the County Board of Elections. This resolution failed along party lines.
Health – The Legislature unanimously passed two resolutions accepting annual grant funding for the Adolescent Tobacco Enforcement program (ATUPA). This grant is used to pay for underage tobacco purchase sting operations in collaboration with the Sheriff’s Department.
A separate resolution accepting funds from the opioid settlement was also passed, and the funds will offset costs associated with Narcan training, outreach and education, and post mortems.
Van Rensselaer Manor (VRM) – Several annual contracts were extended for 2024, including the 33rd year of a contract with HVCC to offer mandatory training and curriculum updates to VRM staff.
Highway – A multitude of resolutions were unanimously approved which authorize the Highway Department to purchase several trucks, a sweeper and a message board, as well as other necessary items to replace aged out equipment in order to properly perform highway operations.
NEXT MEETING – Tuesday, October 10, 2023 in the Rensselaer County Chambers located at 99 Troy Road, East Greenbush.
PUBLIC FORUM – Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.
Residents are welcome to contact our office at 518 270-2890.
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