Manette Becker

The meeting featured an introduction from the National Guard Drug Task Force regarding drug demand reduction services. Agency reports for December 2025 were reviewed. The Director's report highlighted the approval of one-year contract extensions for substance use prevention programs, updates on open staff positions for the Substance Use Initiatives coordinator and peer roles, the development of a plan for Assisted Outpatient Treatment funding, and the approval of a subcontract between the County Mental Health department and a counseling service for clinic screenings.

The Board of Directors conducted several meetings throughout the fiscal year to address administrative and economic development matters. Key activities included appointing new board officers, authorizing the procurement of technology equipment, and managing internal office space and digital file transitions. The Board discussed financial oversight, including audits, bank account management, and authorized various loan program activities. Significant discussions took place regarding potential economic development projects, including business loans, tax-exempt bonding authority for healthcare facilities, and collaboration with county and city partners for economic development services. The Board also reviewed and approved annual budgets, administrative service invoices, and investment strategies for bank certificates of deposit.

The board discussed the reorganization of internal committees, reviewed policy guidance from the Authorities Budget Office, and provided updates on water contract negotiations with the City of Auburn. Key infrastructure projects were reviewed, including the North Street waterline expansion and the Cayuga Lake Protection Plan involving sanitary sewer improvements. The board approved the scheduling of two public hearings, set a referendum date for the sewer district, and authorized the engagement of a public relations firm and a consultant for loan applications. Operational reports from the director, attorney, and engineering teams were reviewed, along with updates on ongoing sewer maintenance and regional water system discussions.

The board discussed fiscal claims and credit card statements, and reviewed various hearing and consent orders for local establishments and districts. Updates were provided on NYSACHO's advocacy regarding the State budget, staffing updates and recruitment efforts, and upcoming promotional activities for national nutrition and colon cancer awareness months. The board also reviewed the progress on the Community Health Improvement Plan, received reports on immunization statistics and communicable disease trends, and addressed water quality topics and educational opportunities.

The meeting agenda includes committee reports from the Finance/Project, Governance, and Personnel committees, as well as an update on city water contract negotiations. Key discussion topics involve the North Street waterline project, the Cayuga Lake Protection Plan regarding the sanitary sewer, administrative and legal reports, a review of a NEPA and SEQR proposal, engineering updates, and strategic planning.