Philip R. Church

The Board of Directors approved the financial report, paid bills, and reviewed the 2026 modified budget and payroll certification. Key business included the authorization to participate in the AEM Round 19 program for specific farm projects and the immediate promotion of two staff members to Environmental Resource Technician. The meeting also featured updates on ongoing conservation projects such as Deer Creek Marsh and Pulaski Drainage, state performance reports, agricultural assessments, and planning for various educational workshops and programs.

The council discussed the rollout of new visitor guides, which now feature updated photos and content regarding the Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary. A recap of the NYS Sportsman Show was provided, noting varying levels of engagement throughout the event. The council reviewed the status of the Government Directory and discussed a trial shift to a quarterly meeting schedule for the remainder of the year, including the creation of subcommittees for hotels and fishing. Various members and guests shared updates on upcoming local events, historical museum openings, festival planning, and regional infrastructure projects. The meeting also included reports on winter snowmobiling conditions and upcoming commemorative celebrations for the US Army and the Erie Canal.

The Board of Directors reviewed and approved the 2026 modified budget, payroll certification for employees, and financial reports. Old business topics included a discussion on the 2025 appropriation and ARPA funds, the submission of state performance reports, the resolution of an unemployment invoice, and compliance with performance measure requirements. In new business, the Board authorized participation in the Round 19 AEM Base Program for cost-share farm projects and approved the immediate promotion of two staff members to the position of Environmental Resource Technician. Additionally, staff provided detailed reports covering ongoing initiatives such as the Deer Creek Marsh project, Pulaski drainage improvements, agricultural assessments, invasive species management, grant administration, and community outreach efforts.

The committee reviewed and approved several items, including a resolution to increase authorization for the Bunner Street Complex Renovation capital project, the approval of the Guide Rail bid, and cell phone requests for the Environmental Division. Additionally, the committee authorized agreements for the World of Racing Group to use the Scriba Highway facility, approved a venue request for the Oswego Opera Theater, and approved the Boy Scouts of America and Apple Fest tram request pending insurance verification. The meeting concluded with department updates covering Buildings and Grounds, Highway, Solid Waste, Airport, and Information Technology.

The committee meeting covered a range of budgetary and personnel actions across multiple county departments. Key discussions involved the appointment of an Acting Assigned Counsel Plan Administrator, authorizations for sheriff office budget modifications and staffing changes, approval of the STOP-DWI plan, and adjustments within the Office of Emergency Management and the District Attorney's office. Additionally, the committee addressed Department of Social Services budget modifications for programs like the Rental Supplement Program, non-residential domestic violence services, and laserfiche upgrades. Infrastructure and economic development projects, including public transit capital funds and audio/visual upgrades, were also authorized. Finally, the committee set salaries for various positions and received updates from the human resources, administration, and purchasing departments.