David Haimes

The Local Solid Waste Management Plan (LSWMP) for Seneca County outlines a ten-year strategy (2024-2033) to manage solid waste by describing current programs, projecting waste totals, and identifying alternatives for increased diversion. The plan details the planning unit's description, waste quantities, existing management systems, administrative structures, and an implementation schedule. Seneca County's goals are to create a feasible and economic approach to future solid waste, reduce the amount of solid waste generated, and identify alternative options to landfills. This is supported by twenty-two strategies categorized into Recycling and Waste Reduction, Organics, Commercial and Demolition (C&D) and Industrial Waste, and Industry-Specific Waste.

The Seneca County Local Development Corporation (SCLDC) aims to drive proactive economic and community development through strategic collaboration, focusing on strengthening economic capacity, coordinating countywide investments, and fostering sustainable regional growth. The plan, formalizing a 5-Year Economic Development Plan starting in 2026, identifies key priorities including developing a centralized information hub, creating a business concierge service, and offering collaborative grant support. It addresses challenges such as housing shortages, infrastructure limitations, and the need for coordinated resources, while positioning SCLDC as a central coordinating hub to unite public and private partners for effective regional development.

The board discussed the Discover Seneca Strategic Plan 2026-2030, covering tourism development, year-round programming, and revitalization initiatives for local business and resorts. The meeting also included planning for a countywide economic development summit, considerations regarding infrastructure and housing, and a review of the administrative and compliance contract with the MRB Group. Additional topics included preparations for a site visit by RKG Associates, ongoing redevelopment initiatives in Ovid, and operational inquiries regarding the Finger Lakes Regional Airport.

The board conducted a public hearing regarding New York State Agricultural Markets Law. Committee reports included updates on the county's visitor guide, tourism strategic plan, airport fuel sales, and runway lighting repairs. The board authorized several agreements and actions, including property transfers to the Fingerlakes Regional Land Bank, startup funding for the Water and Sewer Authority, the creation of a new airport manager position, and the upgrading of hardware and software for the 911 Center. Additionally, the board approved appointments to the Workforce Investment Board and the Planning Board, and authorized feasibility studies and emergency repair services for various county facilities.

The committee meeting primarily focused on a presentation regarding power management for the county's gas and electric accounts. The discussion centered on contract performance, the volatility of energy markets, and a recommendation to fix energy pricing through 2030 to ensure budget predictability. Additionally, the committee discussed the possibility of extending these services to include towns within the county. The meeting also included a motion to authorize an agreement with Stark Tech for generator, boiler, and HVAC services.