County Conversations

Introducing NYSAC President Phil Church

This episode features a conversation with NYSAC’s Executive Director Stephen Acquario and Philip Church, newly elected NYSAC President and Oswego County Administrator. They discuss Phil’s journey in county government, the challenges and opportunities of regional economic development, as well as NYSAC priorities for the year ahead. This episode is sponsored by the Alliance for Clean Energy New York and their Plugging In podcast.

Short-Term Rentals, Local Solutions: Building Registries That Work for Counties

This episode features a conversation that unpacks New York’s updated short-term rental law and what it means for counties across the state. NYSAC Deputy Director Mark LaVigne is joined by Nick Del Pego, CEO of Deckard Technologies to discuss the practical benefits of establishing a short-term rental registry and a clear roadmap for local leaders navigating compliance, education, and enforcement. 

Federal Budget Shifts, Immigration, and Medicaid: NACo’s Matt Chase Talks County Impacts

This Director’s Cut episode features an in-depth conversation on federal actions that are directly impacting New York’s counties. NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Matt Chase, Executive Director of the National Association of Counties (NACo). They discuss shifting federal immigration policy, the implications of proposed Medicaid and SNAP reforms, as well as the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap, federal budget reconciliation efforts, and the role of counties in providing essential services.

Experience Wanted: Raising the Cap for Retired Public Servants

This episode features a conversation on Senate Bill 6956 (Ryan)/Assembly Bill 8720 (Stirpe), which would raise the earnings cap for retired public employees who return to work in public service, increasing the limit from $35,000 to $50,000. NYSAC’s Legislative Director Ryan Gregoire is joined by Tom Tatun, Executive Director of the Retired Public Employees Association to discuss how this legislation can help address urgent workforce shortages while supporting retirees who are ready to step back into public service.

Hope & Help: County-led Opioid Abatement Campaigns

This episode of County Conversations focuses on how counties can fight the opioid epidemic and reduce stigma around substance use disorders. NYSAC Multimedia Specialist Kate Pierce-Nimz is joined by Cheryl Moore, Independent Consultant at Opioid Consulting, and Amanda Lucchino, Director of Business Development at Trellis Marketing. They discuss how counties can effectively engage residents in opioid abatement efforts through personalized, data-driven public awareness campaigns.

Purchasing Powering Employment

This episode features a conversation with Maureen O’Brien, President and CEO of the New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID). The episode features a celebration of NYSID’s 50^th anniversary, and focuses on how partnerships with counties and local governments across New York State are driving economic impact, enhancing community inclusion, and fostering a strong statewide workforce.

Centennial Celebrations

This Director’s Cut episode features a conversation on celebrations planned for NYSAC's centennial year in 2025. NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Benjamin Boykin II, Westchester County legislator and President of NYSAC to discuss upcoming events, historic research, and a vision of the past 100 years of service to counties. 

2025 Economic Outlook with three+one

For our last episode of the year, NYSAC’s Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Joseph Rulison, CEO and Co-Founder of three+one. This episode provides a financial outlook for county leaders, and a forecast for the year ahead in 2025.   

Battling the Whitehouse Fire in Ulster County

This Director’s Cut episode features a conversation on emergency management during the Whitehouse fire in Ulster County. NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger to discuss what the emergency response entailed and preparations for future emergencies.

Battling the Jennings Creek Wildfire

This Director’s Cut episode features a conversation on emergency management during the recent Jennings Creek wildfire. NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus to discuss response strategies and what was involved in battling the wildfire and keeping residents safe.