County Executive News

Problem-solving, Innovation and Collaboration Key to McCoy's 2013 State of the County Speech

In his second State of the County address, Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy credits accomplishments during his first year in office to addressing fiscal problems head on through problem-solving, innovation and collaboration.

"Our plan that began in 2012 represented a jumpstart to ensure that we put Albany County on the road to fiscal recovery," said McCoy. "The long term financial plan we have implemented put the county on sound footing and ensures, unless there is a natural disaster or more unfunded mandates are passed down, we will propose a budget under the two percent tax cap by 2015. We are seeing improvements in the region's economy. By working together, we will be proactive in tackling the challenges we face. We've accomplished much in our first year, but there is so much more to do."   
 
In his address McCoy stressed that 2013 is a pivotal year for the county.

"As the year progresses we will continue to implement an aggressive agenda with our partners, while identifying innovative ways to cut the cost of government to benefit the taxpayers," said McCoy. "My office is seeking further opportunities for us to work with the legislature, the state and the federal government to implement strategies to move the county forward."  

In his remarks the County Executive highlighted several initiatives that will serve as guiding principles for the remainder of the year.

They include:

• Implementing economic development partnerships with Schenectady County Community College and Soldier On that will serve the public and benefit taxpayers.
• "Greening" Albany County by moving ahead with Albany County Team Green, a working group established by Executive Order that will propose ways for the county to cut energy costs and reduce the county's carbon footprint. 
• Putting aside over a decade of discussion and uncertainty by implementing the lease agreement with USG.  This will protect seniors, save taxpayers over $100,000,000 over ten years and finally accept financial responsibility for the Albany County Nursing Home.  
• Encouraging innovation and government consolidation to maximize efficiencies and save taxpayer dollars.
• Further developing green space and working with local governments and the state on the Rail Trail, an innovative way to enhance recreational opportunities for county residents.
• Enhancing the county's emergency response, training and planning by working with the state and federal governments to ensure the county has the tools it needs to respond.
• Seeking ways to improve and fund solutions to make county government efficient while seeking regional cooperation agreements that will serve the public good.