County Conversations

County Budgeting for 2021: Part 1

This episode is the first of a two-part special featuring conversations about county budgeting and finance concerns. Dave Lucas, NYSAC’s Director of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs is joined by Warren County Administrator Ryan Moore. They will discuss what challenges the county is facing right now in their budget as a result of the pandemic and an unfolding economic recession, and what they are anticipating for 2021 and beyond. They will also detail the steps that Warren County is taking to address the current crisis.

Resiliency, Recovery, and County Mental Health Services

This episode features a conversation on mental health services amid the COVID-19 pandemic. NYSAC’s executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Katherine Coons, Commissioner of the Rensselaer County Department of Mental Health. They discussed reactions to isolation and social distancing measures, the funding challenges faced by county mental health services, and an increase in demand for these services.

National Perspective on Impact and Response to COVID-19

This episode features a conversation on the national impact and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. NYSAC’s executive director Stephen Acquario is joined by the National Association of Counties executive director, Matt Chase. They will discuss the disparate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, economic and federal stimulus concerns, and an overview of county crisis response.

Reflections on the 19th Amendment Centennial

NYSAC’s Multimedia Specialist Kate Pierce is joined by Martha Robertson, Chair of the Tompkins County Legislature, and Martha Sauerbry, Chairwoman of the Tioga County Legislature and President-Elect of NYSAC.

They discuss the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, reflect on the momentous anniversary, and have a candid conversation on the challenges and opportunities for women in local government.

Counties Need Federal COVID Stimulus Funding

NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario recently had the opportunity to sit down with Dave Andrews, General Manager and News Director of Hometown Radio (WIRY) in Plattsburgh NY - to talk about the need for federal COVID stimulus funding for counties who have been fighting the pandemic since early march. 

The Role of a County Manager with Jay Gsell

NYSAC’s executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Genesee County Manager Jay Gsell.

They discuss the accountability and attention to detail required for a county manager position, the importance of inter-county collaboration in the GLOW region, and how Genesee County leadership has kept perspective throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. They also reflect on Jay’s 46 year career in service to local government as he approaches retirement.

Challenges Ahead for New York’s School Districts

NYSAC’s Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Robert Schneider, Executive Director of the NYS School Boards Association. They discuss adaptations made by school districts in response to the pandemic, the need for federal stimulus funding for critical resources, what is on the horizon for reopening, and how counties and school districts are continuing to work hand-in-hand towards solutions in our communities.

School Transportation Concerns During COVID-19 Pandemic

This episode features a conversation on school transportation services. NYSAC’s executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by David Christopher, executive director of the New York Association for Pupil Transportation - and Bill Harvey, Director of Transportation & Safety for  Honeoye-Falls Lima CSD, which encompasses Monroe, Ontario, and Livingston counties.

They will discuss the challenges of school transportation, especially including COVID-19 social distancing and a shortage of school bus drivers. 

Rural Cellular Coverage

This episode features a conversation on rural cellular coverage and service. NYSAC’s executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Congressman Anthony Brindisi of New York’s 22^nd congressional district, and Chairman William Farber of the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors. They will discuss the lack of cellular coverage in rural areas of the state, the need for federal infrastructure stimulus funding, and next steps to move forward with the industry to help communities in need of coverage.

COVID-19 Response: NYC Food Czar

This episode features a conversation on addressing food insecurity in New York City. NYSAC’s Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Kathryn Garcia the City’s Commissioner of Sanitation, and “Food Czar” during the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss the logistics of emergency food distribution, using technology in innovative ways, and leveraging lessons learned during the pandemic for long-term planning.