Ellen Bowe

The board discussed various items, including the donation of electronic equipment to a local school district, the proclamation of National Public Health Week, and resolutions for employee appreciation and retirement recognition. Additionally, they addressed government operations, such as amendments to policies and the establishment of a gender-based violence workplace policy, and finance-related items, including sales tax reports, technology expenditures, facility improvements, and tax parcel reconciliation. Further discussions included updates from the planning committee regarding awards for public infrastructure and appointments to the IDA board, as well as an overview of county-wide emergency medical services.

The meeting featured the State of the County address delivered by the Chairman, highlighting the county's fiscal stability, including its double-A S&P rating and recognition for excellent financial management. Key topics included discussions on committee resolutions related to intermunicipal agreements for police tactical teams, continuing medical education for EMS providers, and a formal opposition to New York State legislative bills concerning the protection of state forests and wildlife. Additionally, the Chairman reviewed the county's budgetary status, financial management initiatives, and the challenges posed by state-mandated costs, particularly within the context of Medicare funding.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call. Key discussions involved resolutions from the Government Operations Committee, including welcoming new members, honoring NO graduates, and approving an agreement with Civic Plus and a CSEA white power unit agreement. The Finance Ways and Means Committee reported strong sales tax revenue increases for 2025 compared to 2024, noted upcoming closures of the County DMV for statewide software updates, and addressed several budget modifications, including those related to the Kasanovia property and inmate commissary accounts. The Planning Committee addressed funding for community development partnerships ($120,000), the appointment of a Syracuse Regional Airport Authority member, stream maintenance funding ($150,000 for soil and water), funding for watershed protection entering Onidal Lake ($137,000), extending mobility management contracts, appointing members to the Central New York Regional Planning Development Board, and accepting an additional $300,000 for the Microenterprise Grant Fund. The Criminal Justice Public Safety Committee discussed support for local EMS agencies, including financial support for KVAC and Casnova areas, and a resolution regarding special patrol officers at Cano Central School which addresses payment for snow days. The Highway Billings and Grounds Committee complimented the road work completed over the winter, discussed setting new electric supply renewal rates, addressed surplus county property, and reviewed plans for expanding the highway garage facility. The Health and Human Services Committee reported on a presentation from the Onidita Police Department crisis worker detailing assistance provided to 109 individuals in obtaining necessities like PO boxes for ID, food, benefits, and housing.

This guidebook, 'Growing Smarter, Living Healthier,' provides a comprehensive overview for older adults on transforming communities into age-friendly environments using Smart Growth principles. It outlines strategies to enhance health and well-being by focusing on four key areas: staying active, connected, and engaged; fostering diverse development and housing options; improving transportation and mobility choices; and promoting healthier lifestyles. The guide encourages community involvement to create sustainable, independent, and higher-quality living experiences for all ages.

The organizational meeting focused on annual designations and appointments for the year 2023. Key resolutions included designating the official newspaper, naming the official bank depository, setting regular meeting times and locations, and establishing the mileage reimbursement rate. Personnel appointments were made for various town offices, including Budget Officer, Code Enforcement Officer, and Town Historian. The Board also approved the legal services agreement with Stokes Law Firm PLLC and established the salary and wage schedule for 2023. Further resolutions authorized payment in advance of audit for certain charges, established standard work days for officials, approved bookkeeping services with Bryn on the Books LLC, and authorized enrollment in NYCLASS. The Board also adopted the 2022 Madison County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan and extended the moratorium on commercial wind and ground solar energy facilities through July 9, 2023. Additionally, the 2022 Adopted Town Budget was modified for both General and Highway Funds, and a contract for ambulance services with Smithfield Eaton Volunteer Ambulance Corp. was approved.