Gretchen Becker

This economic development strategy for Schoharie County outlines a long-term approach to foster economic growth and build a competitive advantage by supporting value-added activities. It focuses on four key pillars: establishing appropriate policies and regulations, enhancing hard connectivity (infrastructure and sites), strengthening soft connectivity (networks and quality of life), and building institutional capacity through shared leadership and public-private collaboration. The plan aims to position the county as a desirable location for businesses and improve the ability of local enterprises to add value, with a detailed implementation plan spanning five years.

This document provides an economic analysis of Schoharie County, identifying its status as a 'basic needs economy' with fiscal challenges including insufficient external funding and rising operational costs. It proposes a two-pronged strategy to address these issues: continuing stringent budget development and financial oversight, and learning from other counties to implement efficiencies. Key focus areas for efficiency include procurement, contracts, hiring, reimbursement, technology development, and capital project management, with the goal of lowering government costs while maintaining service delivery.

The approved budget includes general, water and sewer accounts. The general account covers legislative expenditures, judicial matters, executive functions, finance, legal aspects, public safety (including police and fire departments), health, transportation (street maintenance and lighting), culture and recreation (parks), grant expenditures, home and community services (code enforcement, planning/ZBA boards, sanitation), and general expenses. Water account expenditures include administration, source of supply, purification, general expenses, capital projects, and debt service. Sewer account expenditures cover administration, sanitary sewers, treatment and disposal, general expenses, and debt service.

The strategic plan of the Central Bridge Civic Association focuses on improving the community by maintaining the Community Park, promoting civic and economic welfare, and organizing community events. Key goals include installing sidewalks, improving playground equipment, landscaping main streets, enhancing safety with crosswalks, cleaning up the area, holding more events, and establishing a small museum and meeting location. The association also supports local initiatives such as the construction of dugouts and improvements to the playground.

The Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan for the Town of Carlisle focuses on supporting agriculture through farm-friendly policies and land use regulations, retaining agricultural land, and fostering economic opportunities for farmers. It aims to educate the community about agriculture, protect natural resources, and address issues impacting agriculture at the town level. The plan includes recommendations for agricultural land use planning, agricultural districts, property taxes, working lands, and farmland protection, with the goal of balancing development with the preservation of the town's agricultural tradition.