Robert A. Henke

The meeting agenda includes a 2027 local services plan presentation, an invitation to change training, and discussions on federal actions and local impacts. Key informational items cover the NYS OASAS listening tour, the current status of opioid settlement funds, updates on Kratom and Nitrous Oxide, the enacted NYS budget, and updates on high needs and core committee activities. Additionally, the committee will review OASAS SUD key indicator reports, court-based mental health navigators, AOT/EVA funding, agency updates, suicide prevention coalition activities, 988 call data, first responder wellness resources, and 988 awareness promotion.

The meeting focused on multi-disciplinary threat assessment training for clinicians, updates on the Healthcare Coalition for the North Country, and the status of opioid settlement fund proposals and disbursements. Other topics included information on first responder wellness resources, disaster mental health responder training, updates on local services planning, and the implementation of a high-needs meeting initiative. The subcommittee also reviewed the status of the Crisis Intervention Team, progress on court-based mental health navigators, various agency program updates, and an awareness campaign for the 988 suicide prevention hotline.

The board meeting included a proclamation ceremony honoring Sergeant Major Howard A. Waite for his military service. A presentation was delivered by the Daughters of the American Revolution regarding the upcoming America 250 anniversary celebration. Additionally, the Executive Director of the Tri-County United Way provided a detailed report on the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population in the county, discussing financial hardships, housing challenges, and available support resources, including workforce development and mental health services.

The committee meeting covered a review of department reports, including an update on county take-home vehicles and monthly financial reports from the County Treasurer. Key discussions and actions included various budget amendments for the Department of Public Works, Sheriff's Department, Public Health, District Attorney, and Sewer District. Additionally, the committee addressed the pay rates for Special Patrol Officers, approved union contracts for the Teamsters and Sheriff PBA, reviewed the 2025 year-end financial report, and held an executive session to discuss union negotiations and other personnel matters.

The meeting focused on an update from the college president regarding enrollment growth, new academic degree programs, reaccreditation efforts, and facilities master planning. The primary focus was the presentation of the proposed 2026-2027 operating budget, which includes a 1.25% tuition increase and a strategy to rebuild the fund balance while reducing personnel costs. The committees discussed revenue sources, including sponsor contributions from Warren and Washington Counties and state aid, and approved moving the budget forward to the next Board meeting and setting a public hearing. Additionally, the completion of the high voltage electrical infrastructure upgrade was confirmed.