Senator Pam Helming brought together municipal clerks from across the 54th Senate District this week for a collaborative roundtable focused on strengthening local governments and the communities they serve.
The event, themed “Municipal Clerks: The Hearts of Our Communities,” gave clerks from towns, villages, and cities a chance to share insights, challenges, and ideas directly with state leaders and one another.
Clerks at the center of local life
“Municipal clerks are the calm in the storm, the problem-solvers, and the friendly face behind the counter,” Senator Helming said during her opening remarks. “They are the heart and soul of local government, and I am deeply grateful for the care and professionalism they bring to their communities every single day.”
The roundtable spotlighted the essential role clerks play as the first point of contact for residents, helping connect people to services, records, and resources every day.
Election law, rising costs, and public safety top agenda
Special guests from the Monroe, Livingston, and Ontario County Boards of Elections provided updates on New York’s new even-year elections law, including how it will change election coordination and timelines for local governments.
Clerks also discussed other key issues, including rising utility and energy costs, the impact of state electrification mandates, and updates on Helming’s bipartisan PROTECT Act (S.2282A) — legislation aimed at giving judges more tools to enhance public safety.
Senator Helming’s team also walked participants through the Municipal Grant Booklet, a resource designed to help local governments access state and federal funding.
Clerks welcome collaboration
Local leaders praised the roundtable for fostering open dialogue.
“These roundtables are an excellent example of the power of collaboration,” said Victor Town Clerk Karen Bodine. “It was encouraging to see so many voices at the table, working together toward common goals.”
Monroe County Elections Commissioner Peter Elder added, “I want to thank Senator Helming for her leadership… it was a pleasure to participate in this important discussion.”
A taste of local pride
Attendees enjoyed fresh Wayne County apples donated by Van De Walle Fruit Farm in Alton, a nod to the region’s agricultural heritage and sense of community.
Senator Helming closed the event with a message of thanks: “Partnerships like these are how we solve problems and serve people better. These conversations make a difference, and I look forward to continuing them.”
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