County Conversations

Strengthening Community Mental Health Through Local Partnerships

This episode features a conversation highlighting the work of NAMI New York State and the importance of connection, advocacy, and local partnerships in promoting mental health awareness. NYSAC Multimedia Specialist Kate Pierce-Nimz is joined by James Norton from NAMI New York State to discuss peer support programs, stigma-free workplaces, advocacy efforts, and how counties can strengthen mental health resources in their communities.

Adventure Awaits: History, Tourism & Public Parks Across New York State

This episode features a conversation on New York State Parks, featuring public spaces that enhance recreation, strengthen communities, and celebrate New York’s history. NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. They discuss New York’s state parks and historic sites, the growing role of parks in tourism and economic development, and the state’s preparations for America’s 250th anniversary. This episode also highlights county partnerships and how New York is expanding recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Behind the Benefits: Delivering SNAP in a Changing Federal Landscape

This episode features a conversation on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and recent federal changes including reductions in administrative funding, as well as tightened work requirements. The conversation focuses on how these changes to the program will affect how counties are able to effectively administer this program

Dave Lucas, NYSAC’s Director of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs is joined by Kira Pospesel, Commissioner of the Greene County Department of Social Services, as well as Paul Brady, Executive Director of the New York Public Welfare Association. 

The Role of a County Administrator

This episode of NYSAC's County Conversations Podcast features a conversation about the role of a county Administrator. Joining NYSAC's Deputy Director Mark LaVigne is Green County Administrator Shaun Groden.

Late Budget, High Stakes: SFY 2027 Update for Counties

This episode features members of NYSAC’s legislative team discussing the latest developments in New York State’s budget negotiations.

NYSAC's Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Dave Lucas and Alex Regan for a conversation on key budget negotiations impacting county governments across New York, including rising pension costs, potential Tier 6 reforms, and major federal and state cost shifts affecting local budgets.

The team also highlights proposals aimed at easing fiscal pressure, supporting infrastructure, and strengthening the county workforce.

For more analysis and resources, visit NYSAC.org/budget and stay engaged as budget discussions continue.

Powering Local Government with MEGA

This episode features a conversation with Priority Power’s Vice President Aleks Urosevic to discuss the trends affecting electricity and natural gas markets. Joined by Mark LaVigne, they also discuss how MEGA helps counties, municipalities, and school districts secure competitive energy pricing.

Let’s Talk Budget: Making the County Case

This episode features a conversation on the priorities shaping this year’s state legislative session and budget negotiations. Joining NYSAC’s Multimedia Specialist Kate Pierce-Nimz are members of NYSAC’s Legislative Team: Alex Regan, Legislative Director, and Dave Lucas, Director of Finance & Intergovernmental Affairs. They highlight both the investments counties support, and the areas where reforms are urgently needed to ensure a fair and sustainable state-local partnership.

To learn more about NYSAC’s priorities for the year, visit nysac.org/legislativepriorities and for the latest news about the ongoing state budget negotiations visit nysac.org/budget

Modern Tools for County Justice Systems

In this episode, NYSAC Deputy Director Mark LaVigne is joined by Omar Usmani, CEO of Aeon Nexus. They discuss how counties and local governments can modernize justice systems through improved case management, workflow automation, and secure technology platforms. The conversation explores ways counties can increase efficiency, improve transparency, and better serve their communities.

Aeon Nexus is an Excelsior Partner of the New York State Association of Counties

The Local Agenda: NYSAC, NYCOM, NYAOT Discuss Shared Priorities for 2026

In this special joint episode of NYSAC's County Conversations and NYAOT’s Talk of the Town, the three executive directors of New York’s statewide municipal associations come together to discuss the collective and individual issues the associations and municipal membership are most concerned about.

Mark LaVigne, Deputy Director of the New York State Association of Counties, is joined by Stephen Acquario (NYSAC), Barb Van Epps (New York Conference of Mayors), and Chris Koetzle (New York Association of Towns).

Counties, cities, towns and villages are all facing similar challenges for 2026. This episode highlights the essential, bipartisan role local governments play in delivering everyday services such as clean water, safe roads, and public safety across the state.

NY Counties Lead: How Erie County Trained 147,000 Lifesavers

This episode of County Conversations, part of NYSAC’s NY Counties Lead initiative, highlights how counties are leading on public safety and emergency preparedness. NYSAC’s Kate Pierce-Nimz joined Erie County Community Coalition Coordinator Lindsay Wright, and Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera for a conversation exploring Erie County’s designation as a HEARTSafe Community by the Citizen CPR Foundation, the essential benchmarks required to achieve it, and how it has impacted emergency preparedness and response the county.