Submitted by the Office of County Executive Steve McLaughlin
Rensselaer County will be undertaking an ambitious plan to improve County facilities, expand important County services and broaden access for the public to County government, County Executive Steve McLaughlin announced.
The Reimagine Rensselaer County project will modernize and strengthen County services at all levels. Funds for the project come from the surplus generated by the County the past four years.
“This is a major step forward for Rensselaer County, and will ensure a solid platform of facilities and services for future generations. This is an investment in our operations and the future viability of County services and government and how we serve the public,” said McLaughlin.
The resolution for the Reimagine Rensselaer County project has been introduced to the County Legislature, which may take up the resolution at the June 14 meeting. The Reimagine Rensselaer County expansion and improvement effort would utilize $26.8 million. Along with County surplus funds, some funds from the federal American Rescue Plan would be utilized, as well as some previously budgeted funds.
The components of the project include appropriations to allow for the improvement and fit-up for conversion of 99 Troy Road in East Greenbush. The County will be relocating many offices and services to the location, following a purchase approved this spring. The move would mean the majority of County facilities would be in County ownership.
Rensselaer County currently spends $1.1 million to rent Flanigan Square for DSS and Probation services, meaning $11 million has been spent for the rental.
The effort would also include $3 million to allow for maintenance and upgrades at the County Sewer District, utilizing ARA funds. The sewer district has supported major economic development and job creation projects in areas of the County. It would provide for replacement and improvement of senior centers operated by the County.
New components for the County emergency radio system would also be provided. Funding would replace emergency radios nearing the end of warranty, and help enhance coverage across the County.
Funds included in the plan would allow Rensselaer County to continue a strong paving effort in 2022, to build on the 170 miles paved over the last four years, along with making additional investments in highway equipment. Funds would also be provided the replacement of a County garage in Cropseyville and allow for full-time use of the garage. Replacement of a recently closed bridge in Berlin would also be provided.