Rochelle L. Casselbury

The committee addressed several departmental requests, including a contract renewal for the District Attorney's office and the reclassification of a part-time Assistant District Attorney position. The meeting featured a commendation for emergency responders and the introduction of a new Deputy Director of 911. Several grants were accepted, and contracts were authorized for radio and telephone equipment for a backup 911 center, as well as physicals for the Corning City Hazmat Team. The Sheriff's Office received approvals for various grants, software license renewals, and contracts. Furthermore, the committee discussed and approved the amendment of School Resource Officer contracts, the creation of two additional Deputy Sheriff positions, and the installation of license plate reader equipment. Finally, an update was provided on the implementation of an animal abuse registry.

The committee authorized the addition of a line boring kit to the major equipment budget and accepted the Roadway Departure Safety Action Plan grant, including the creation of a corresponding guiderail replacement capital project. An addendum to the gas rights agreement with WB Steuben, LLC was approved to transfer ownership of carbon credits back to the county. The committee awarded bids for gas well pipe and traffic signs and delineators, extended a contract for overhead garage door services, and rescinded a bid award for street sign posts. Discussion also took place regarding the status of roadside mowing and a damaged paver, and the effectiveness of contracting a grant writer was reviewed.

The meeting included departmental reports on various traffic safety and infrastructure initiatives. The Sheriff's Office provided updates on public service announcements, the Emilee's Challenge trailer, work zone safety measures, and the installation of license plate readers. The Emergency Management Office introduced new staff and noted traffic volume during special events. The Planning Department discussed public transportation infrastructure, including bus stop improvements and potential shuttles, alongside updates on ongoing transportation studies. The New York State Department of Transportation reviewed several traffic and road safety projects involving paving, pedestrian safety, and school crossing infrastructure. Finally, the Public Works department reported on ongoing road reconstruction, paint striping, and chip sealing projects.

The meeting included a public hearing regarding community development needs and the potential submission of a Community Development Block Grant application. The legislature recognized a staff member for service, discussed EMS service challenges and reimbursement rates, and heard public comments on ICE and immigration. Key legislative actions included the acceptance of the communications log, the introduction of a local law to amend the Steuben County Charter, and the appropriation of unexpended state funding for 2026 road and bridge improvement projects.

The board reviewed the Treasurer's report and discussed the status of various property inventory and rehabilitation projects, including specific updates on sites in Riverside, Painted Post, Hornell, Savona, and Corning. The board authorized the sale of a property in Hornellsville. Additionally, the board approved the renewal of an MOU for administrative services with Arbor Development. Other business included a status update on a rehabilitation project in Hornell and consideration of a potential new project in Wayland identified for the upcoming tax auction.