It’s time for state legislators and Governor Andrew Cuomo to deal with the many challenges facing the Finger Lakes region.
That was the resounding message from Seneca County Board of Supervisors Chairman Bob Shipley (R-Waterloo), who took last night’s meeting as an opportunity to address the lengthy list of concerns the legislators have with Albany’s efforts.
“I feel it is important to point out to Albany that our high property taxes and crumbling infrastructure are the key factors why New York ranks as the #1 State in the United States for population loss over the past year,” Chairman Shipley said.
That’s not a new distinction for New York – but frustration is growing among local legislators – as initiative-after-initiative inflates cost of living, while not showing any new investment in key areas, such as infrastructure enhancement, or environmental protections.
“Almost 50,000 residents have been compelled to leave New York State. Instead of blaming Washington, the time has come for ‘Albany’ to ignore partisan politics and work together to lead by example,” Shipley added. “Albany needs to focus on our #1 resource – families who struggle every day to make ends meet and Small business owners.”
The Chairman said this could be achieved by working hard to remove the perception of an unfriendly business environment.
He said the Board of Supervisors will need to do a better job of owning the problem, too. “We must work to reduce tax burdens, improve the cost and functionality of county government, and build stability for the future generations of Seneca County.”
Chairman Shipley said at a session last fall that Seneca County is responsible for it’s own future; and at Tuesday’s meeting he reiterated that point – urging legislators to think about big picture issues that can help move the county forward.
“We cannot look solely to the state to help solve our problems or challenges. We must work collaboratively to enact meaningful change that will help our community grow and prosper,” Shipley added. “We must stand as one unified group,” Shipley continued. “Standing with County Manager Rowe, to find common ground on the issues that have previously caused division and to work together to resolve those issues for the betterment of all Seneca County Citizens.”
Shipley thanked retiring Personnel Officer Kathy Corona for her 20 years of service to our Human Resources Department. Tuesday’s meeting was her last full-meeting leading the County’s Human Resources Department.
This content is brought to you by the FingerLakes1.com Team. Support our mission by visiting www.patreon.com/fl1 or learn how you send us your local content here.