A series of infrastructure projects, staffing moves, and public safety initiatives moved forward this week as the Yates County Legislature approved a wide-ranging slate of resolutions during its April 13 meeting.
The actions touch nearly every corner of county government, from airport improvements and emergency services to mental health support and workforce development, signaling continued investment in both physical infrastructure and public services.
Among the most significant approvals was funding tied to upgrades at the Penn Yan–Yates County Airport. Legislators accepted bids and authorized agreements related to runway lighting reconstruction, including awarding a contract not to exceed $96,250 for runway end identifier light system work and preparing to accept a federal grant expected to cover the majority of project costs.
The county is also moving forward with early design work on a potential new public safety facility. Lawmakers authorized consultants to proceed with schematic design for a preferred concept, advancing a long-discussed project aimed at modernizing public safety operations and facilities.
Emergency services infrastructure saw additional progress with approval of a contract for a new fire training facility, funded in part by a previously awarded state grant. The project is expected to cost up to $581,300 and will support training needs for volunteer fire departments across the county.
Several workforce-related changes were also approved. The legislature appointed a new information technology director, authorized the hiring of a motor equipment operator for the highway department, and created a new full-time case manager position in community services that will be fully funded through state aid.
In addition, lawmakers approved a range of contracts and agreements, including funding for opioid treatment services at the county jail, a contract supporting youth programming through Safe Harbors of the Finger Lakes, and multiple vendor agreements tied to county operations and infrastructure.
The legislature also adopted several proclamations recognizing public safety workers and community initiatives, including National Police Week, National Public Safety Telecommunications Week, National Correctional Officers’ Week, and Mental Health Awareness Month.
Additional actions included support for a Cornell University grape research funding request, appointments to regional workforce boards, and updates to existing agreements and capital projects.
Taken together, the resolutions reflect a mix of long-term planning and immediate operational needs, with a focus on maintaining core services while positioning the county for future growth and compliance with state and federal requirements.
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