Cathy Haskell

The board discussed project updates for several properties including 121 Providence, 247 Main, 62-64 North, and 39 Railroad Ave. Key business items included the review and submission of Audit and PARIS reports, the approval of a contract for the demolition and asbestos abatement at 81 Hickory Park Road, and the adoption of a leasing policy contingent upon attorney approval. Additionally, the board discussed setting rental rates for residential units at 81 North Avenue, a potential change in insurance carriers, and the status of the HCR Property Services grant application.

The committee reviewed the year-to-date budget reports and the county auditor's accounts payable report for February, which included details on P-card transactions and rejected invoices. Administrative updates were provided regarding upcoming conference attendance, the transition to a new format for the annual directory, and pending deadlines for the annual policy review and financial disclosure statements. Discussion for the upcoming legislative session included planning for the prayer and pledge, a moment of silence for retired employees, the proclamation for Public Health Week, the presentation of the State of the County address, and the 2025 County Report. Additionally, the status of various resolutions and reports, including the 2025 Annual Report and the Cost Allocation Plan, was noted.

The Legislature recognized the graduates of the Institute for Advancement Class 3 and expressed appreciation for the program committee's work. A resolution was adopted to honor the dedicated service of a departing member of the Board of Health, and a member was reappointed to fill an unexpired term. Additionally, a proclamation was issued to designate December as Stress Management and Seasonal Affective Disorder Month. The meeting also addressed the scheduling of the organizational meeting and the adoption of a local law concerning the administration and enforcement of the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code.

The worksession covered several topics, including an upcoming meeting with a health care insurance representative regarding employee benefits. Legislators engaged in a discussion about short-term rental regulations, specifically investigating the feasibility of hiring an external vendor to monitor rental compliance and data. Additionally, the board held a discussion on the integration of artificial intelligence in the workplace, focusing on potential benefits, cybersecurity concerns, and the necessity of human oversight. The meeting also included an executive session to discuss the employment history of an individual.

The Legislature convened for a special meeting to deliberate and introduce Local Law Introductory No. D of 2022. This proposed law aims to repeal a previous 2006 local law and enact a comprehensive replacement regarding the administration and enforcement of the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code and the State Energy Conservation Construction Code. The discussions included the framework for code enforcement, building permit requirements, inspection procedures, and the establishment of an operating permit system.