Ontario County will illuminate its courthouse and Geneva office building in green Nov. 4-11 to recognize veterans and draw attention to the challenges they face returning to civilian life.
The county announced its fourth year of participation in Operation Green Light on Wednesday, encouraging residents, businesses and community groups to join by changing one exterior lightbulb to green.
Two county buildings will take part
The lighting will remain in place through Veterans Day at the Ontario County Courthouse in Canandaigua and the county's Geneva complex at 83 Seneca St. The county's Board of Supervisors approved the effort in October through Resolution 596-2026.
The resolution identifies 6,417 veterans living in Ontario County, representing about 5.6% of its population. It recognizes their service while encouraging greater awareness of the resources available to veterans and their families.
Supervisors adopted the resolution Oct. 15 by a 21-0 vote, with no abstentions or absences. Frederick Wille offered the measure, Nancy Yacci seconded it, and the Health and Human Services and Public Works committees recommended approval.
Residents can participate from home
The county is asking residents and businesses to display a green light outside or in a window as a visible sign of support and appreciation. The effort also calls attention to the difficulties some veterans encounter in the transition from military service to civilian life.
Operation Green Light began in New York in 2021 through state county and veterans service organizations. The National Association of Counties later adopted the initiative, and hundreds of counties and local governments have participated, according to the county's resolution.
Veterans seeking information about benefits and other assistance can contact the Ontario County Veterans Service Agency at 585-396-4185 or visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
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