County Legislator Angelo Santabarbara Announces his Switch to the Democratic Party

County Legislator Angelo Santabarbara Announces his Switch to the Democratic Party

Schenectady County Legislator Angelo Santabarbara has announced that he has officially changed his enrollment to the Democratic Party. “In my first two years as a County Legislator, I was pleased to work with all of the Legislators in helping to make Schenectady County a better place to live. I was especially pleased that two of my initiatives - a ban on the use of BPA in baby bottles, and a plan to provide court security for the Princetown Town Court, that were both enacted by the Legislature in a bipartisan manner.

“I was treated with dignity and respect by the Democratic Majority on my proposals and plan to continue working in the best interests as part of that majority. With that said, I am pleased to announce that I am joining the Democratic Majority in the Schenectady County Legislature, and that I will be a part of the Democratic caucus in January. I have witnessed first-hand, the outstanding progress in revitalizing and rebuilding our economy that can be achieved by working together in a constructive fashion. I am convinced that Schenectady County is on the right track with leaner, more efficient government, and robust economic development strategy. At this point, I believe that I can play a constructive role in that progress with my expertise as a civil engineer and work together towards a brighter future for Schenectady County.”

County Legislative Chairwoman Susan E. Savage welcomed Angelo Santabarbara in the Democratic caucus stating, “As a Legislator, Angelo has put forth constructive proposals to benefit all county residents. He is a welcome addition to the Democratic caucus, and will continue to put the people of Schenectady County first.”

County Democratic Chairman Brian Quail stated, “Angelo Santabarbara is welcome into a resurgent Schenectady County Democratic Party that has governed well. He shares our values, and as an engineer has the expertise to make a significant contribution to County government.”

Fireworks in Schenectady County's Downtown Tonight!

Tonight, end the year enjoying Schenectady County's revitalized downtown and watching fireworks on New Year's Eve!

Schenectady County's Downtown is Resurgent

"Come to downtown Schenectady and you feel happy -- to see it now, you can see what people have accomplished," said Senator Charles Schumer during his recent visit. Schenectady County has seen a dramatic revitalization and while the downtown gets alot of the attention, throughout the county people can see the dramatic change that has taken place since Democratic Leadership implemented the unified economic development plan. Check out this CBS piece featuring Susan Savage, Chair of the County Legislature, talk about the economic development in the downtown.

Senator Schumer Completes His 62- County Tour In Schenectady

Senator Charles Schumer continued his 11 year tradition of visiting every county in the state by visiting Schenectady County and touring Proctors Theatre. During his visit, Senator Schumer pledged support for Proctors' innovative energy district which uses green technology to provide heat and electricity to both the theater and neighboring businesses. Schumer further stated he would work for federal funding to support this program.

In 2004, Senator Schumer won 61 of the 62 counties during his reelection bid in large part because of his tireless efforts to be a senator for all of New York. Schenectady County holds a particularly special place in his heart as it was here in 1998 that the then-Congressman Schumer showed his strength in Upstate New York by winning the Schenectady County straw poll. Schumer went to win the Democratic Primary and defeat the entrenched Republican incumbent in that year.

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President Barack Obama's Remarks on the Senate passage of Health Care Reform

New Year's Eve Fireworks

End the year enjoying Schenectady County's revitalized downtown and watching fireworks on New Year's Eve.

Another Economic Development Win for Schenectady County

The unified economic development plan put in place in 2004 continues to pay dividends even in this difficult national economic climiate. Schenectady County officials have announced that Dimension Fabricators will purchase the former Super Steel facility in Glenville, representating an addition $5 million investment by the company as they continue to expand in Schenectady County.

“Through the efforts of our economic development team we were able to quickly put this building back to use, enabling this fast growing company to remain in Schenectady County,” said Susan Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “I want to thank Dimension Fabricators for investing in Schenectady County and look forward to their continued expansion in our community.”

Watch the annoucement below.

"Wicked" Made Possible by Democratic Leadership

Check out this great letter to the editor published in the Daily Gazette on December 20.

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Countywide cooperation paved way for ‘Wicked’

"Wicked" coming to Proctors for its month-long run is a huge win for Schenectady County. Like the visit by "Phantom" in 2006, which the Chamber of Schenectady estimated brought in over $10 million to local businesses, downtown merchants are sure to be filled during this holiday season.

Considering the national economy, we need to pause and remember what made this economic renaissance possible. In 2004, Democrats on the Schenectady County Legislature, led by [Chairwoman] Susan Savage, brought in Ray Gillen, a well-known and respected economic development expert, and set out a new plan for countywide economic development.

Proctors became the centerpiece of a rebuilt downtown, with Metroplex investing $10 million, and the Schenectady County Legislature kicking off the fund-raising drive with a grant of $1 million and capping it with a $450,000 grant, along with a 15-year, $200,000-per-year agreement to sustain the centerpiece. It was this support and the theater expansion that made shows like "Phantom" and "Wicked" possible.

The new plan has paid major dividends. From the new Clinton Square, Hampton Inn, and Aperitivo [Bistro] to a rejuvenated Jay Street and Parker Inn, what was a struggling downtown is now the thriving heart of a resurgent county.

While the current economic climate is difficult, we know we have leadership that can weather the economic storms to come because they have a proven track record of doing it before.

Steve Smith
Glenville

Another Green Initiative From Schenectady County

Schenectady County is partnering with Green Planet Products LLC to become the first municipality in New York State to begin testing 100 percent biodegradable motor oil. Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature, announced this new “green” initiative at the League of Conservation Voters Eco-Breakfast where she was being honored with the Environmental Champion Award for efforts to make Schenectady County a leader in environmental policy.

Chair Savage and the Democratic Majority on the County Legislature have worked to position Schenectady County as a leader in renewable energy. This effort helped to attract GE’s Renewable Energy Headquarters and new Battery Plant to Schenectady County, creating more than a thousand new jobs in the years ahead.

From expanding park land to prioritizing climate smart practices, Schenectady County Democrats continue to work to make Schenectady a great place to live, work, and raise a family, not only for our current residents, but for generations to come.

For more information on this initiative, click here.

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Big Deal for GE is a Big Win for Schenectady County

In 2004, the new Democratic majority on the County Legisalture set out to change economic development in Schenectady County. This effort resulted in the unified economic development team and changes to the tone of the County's efforts. Now Schenectady County continues to see the major positive results.

Just one of the areas of change has been the new positive relationship with GE. The Daily Gazette on February 22, 2009 quoted Jan Smith, spokeswoman for GE Energy, as saying "When the new group came in, they said we should have a climate for change. There has been an effort on [their part] to work with us and us with them." The article further stated "Smith credited the changed environment with GE's decision to locate 500 jobs related to solar and wind power generation."

Now that investment continues to pay dividends as GE has announced it has received a $1.4 billion contract to produce wind turbines. Project management and service will take place right here in Schenectady County. Read more coverage of this deal here.

President Barack Obama's Speech on Jobs

Senator Gillibrand and Congressman Tonko visit Schenectady launching effort to combat senior fraud

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Congressman Paul Tonko joined Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature and Mayor Brian Stratton at Proctors recently to discuss efforts to combat senior fraud. On the federal level, Senator Gillibrand announced several bills she will be introducing to increase criminal and civil penalties for defrauding seniors and incentivize states to educate and protect seniors. Chairwoman Savage also announced a local initiative intended to help educate and protect seniors in our community.

Read more news coverage here.

A "Wicked" Good Investment

The Schenectady County Legislature, led by Chairwoman Susan E. Savage, has declared December as “Wicked Month” in Schenectady County and anticipate the award winning musical will generate an estimated $10 million in revenue for our local businesses.

“This is an exciting time for Schenectady County as we welcome thousands of visitors to our downtown,” said Chair Savage. “Our support of this historic theater has been a “wicked” good investment as the County’s efforts to rebuild downtown are really paying off for Schenectady County taxpayers.”

To attract blockbuster touring Broadway shows, Proctors proposed on an exciting new $30 million expansion. In 2004, the Schenectady County Legislature kicked off the expansion campaign with a $1 million grant and transferred the Carl Company to Proctors for a new box office, the GE Theatre, new conference spaces, and retail space. This was followed by a $10 million investment by Metroplex which was approved by the County Legislature. In 2007, the Schenectady County Legislature awarded an additional $450,000 grant that completed Proctors fundraising efforts. That same year, the County and Proctors entered into a 15 year agreement that would award Proctors $200,000 per year from the county hotel bed tax to support this important downtown venue.

The fruit of that investment has is highly evident in the rejuvenated downtown of a once struggling city. This investment in Proctors has benefited the entire County by spurring additional investment including the Bowtie Cinema, Parker Inn, Hampton Inn, Aperitivo, Bombers Burritos, Clinton Square, Paul Mitchell The School, and the soon to be completed new City Center.

Watch this news story from Capital News Nine and hear more about this sucessful investment.

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

SCDC Holiday Party

Don't miss the annual Schenectady County Democratic Committee Holiday Party on December 10 from 5:30pm to 7:30 at the new Van Dyck, 237 Union St., Schenectady, NY! Pay online at our secure online contribution center.

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

The Scotia Post Office Will Remain Open!

Congressman Paul Tonko announced that the US Postal Service has removed the Scotia branch on Mohawk Avenue from its list of retail stations and branches that remain under review for possible consolidation.

“I commend the review commission for recognizing that the Scotia branch provides a valuable service to its residents and is part of the very fabric of the community,” said Congressman Tonko. “This branch is vital to the integrity of the village. People move to the Village of Scotia because the services are so close -- within walking distance -- and reliable. It doesn’t make sense to drive to downtown Schenectady to mail a parcel.”

Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature, thanked the United States Postal Service for removing the Scotia Branch Post Office from their nationwide consolidation plan.

“We are very excited by the news that the US Postal Service has realized the historic significance and importance of the Scotia Branch Post Office to our Main Street business district,” said Chair Savage. “This branch will continue to provide a valued and vital service to the Village of Scotia and the surrounding community. It has been a community wide effort to save our post office, and I want to thank our Congressman Paul Tonko, the other members of our congressional delegation, and all those who fought so hard to preserve our Post Office and maintain the character of our community.”

As part of the effort to save the post office, Chairwoman Savage submitted testimony asking the USPS to consider the impacts the potential closings would have on local communities and joined with Congressman Paul Tonko in a video interviewing residents on the importance of the Post Office and showing the unique character of the Village of Scotia and. The video was forwarded to the USPS and can also be viewed below.

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Congressman Tonko's speech on Healthcare Reform

CONGRESSMAN TONKO STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF HEALTH CARE REFORM LEGISLATION

Congressman Paul Tonko released the following statement on the passage of H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act:

“Today the House of Representatives took a giant step towards fixing our broken health care system by passing legislation that will provide coverage for millions of uninsured Americans, strengthen Medicare for our seniors, lower costs for businesses and individuals, and provide protections for those who already have health care coverage. In the 21st Congressional District alone, this bill will cover 22,000 of the uninsured and close the Medicare Part “D” donut hole that currently has 7,300 of our seniors paying out of pocket for prescription drug costs.

“As I traveled throughout the district over the past 10 months, I heard heartbreaking stories of families thrust into bankruptcy because they had been denied coverage when they became ill, heard from people who’ve had to decide between buying food and prescription drugs, and from small business owners who cannot provide coverage to their employees because it’s too expensive. The overwhelming number of voices have told me we need to fix the system, and that’s what we are doing today.

“To me, health care reform is about helping people, not politics. It’s about giving everyone access to affordable, quality health care. With this legislation, we bring quality health care within reach of millions of Americans, and enhance the care that those with insurance and Medicare already receive.”

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President Obama on the Healthcare Vote

Thank you

Congratulations to all of our newly elected and re-elected Democratic candidates:

Our County Legislature Chairwoman Susan E. Savage, County Legislators Karen Johnson, Philip Fields, Dr. Brian Gordon, Marty Finn, and newly elected Holly Vellano,

Our new sheriff, Dominic Dagostino,

Our new Supreme Court Justice, Judge Barry Kramer,

City of Schenectady Council members Mark Blanchfield, Gary McCarthy, and Barbara Blanchard,

Niskayuna Town Supervisor Joe Landry, Town Board members-elect Jonathan McKinney and Denise Murphy McGraw, Recevier of Taxes Diane R. Percy, and newly reelected Town Justice Paul Zonderman

Rotterdam Town Supervisor-elect Francis Del Gallo, Town Board members-elect Robert Godlewski, Matt Martin, and Nicola G DiLeva, Town Clerk Eunice Esposito, Receiver of Taxes Dawn M Pasquariello

Duanesburg Town Board member Jean Frisbee

To all of our Democratic candidates, whether successful or not, thank you for your commitment and your efforts to bring about positive progressive change in our community.

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Help Get Out the Vote

We need your help! Join the Democratic Ticket for the Annual Schenectady County

Get Out The Vote Rally and Lit Drop

Saturday, October 31 at 9:30AM
at the Ancient Order of the Hibernians on State Street in Schenectady

and

Sunday, November 1 at 10AM
at Democratic Headquarters (105 Clinton Street across from Schenectady City Hall)

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Meet State Supreme Court Candidate Brian Stewart

Meet State Supreme Court candidate Brian Stewart.

A Lifetime of Service


A Problem Solver


He Knows the District

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Denise McGraw Wins Prestigious Endorsement

Niskayuna Democratic Town Board Candidate Denise Murphy McGraw was one of 150 women from across New York State to receive the prestigious backing of the Eleanor Roosevelt Legacy Committee, a group dedicated to building a new generation of women candidates, informed voters, and political activists in New York State.

Click here for more news coverage.

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

President Obama's Weekly Address

Downtown investment continues to pay dividends

Ticket sales for the Broadway show "Wicked" were so overwhelming that the Proctors website was temporarily overwhelmed.

"Proctor’s has been the cornerstone of our economic revitalization effort and has been a catalyst for additional development downtown and throughout Schenectady County,” said Susan E. Savage, Chairwoman of the Schenectady County Legislature.

Democrats on the County Legislature have remained committed to Proctors, supporting grants of $1 million at the start of the project and $450,000 in 2007 to help complete the $30 million renovation project that made it possible for shows like "Phantom of the Opera", which in 2006 had an estimated local economic impact of at least $10 million, and "Wicked" to come to Proctors. Additionally, Proctors receives $200,000 per year through a dedicated arts fund that supports art and cultural programs throughout Schenectady County at no local taxpayer expense.

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Railex proves a continuing success

Railex has proven to be a continuing success in Rotterdam. The company is now operating four trains a week to Rotterdam and employing nearly 200 employees thanks to the unified economic development team put in place by County Democrats in 2004.

Click here to read more.

County Democrats Pass Largest Tax Cut in 20 Years

Democrats on the Schenectady County Legislature led by Chairwoman Susan E. Savage passed a 2.13% tax cut, the third cut in the last five years and the largest cut in at least 20 years. This makes the Schenectady County full value tax rate the lowest since 1956. This budget was made possible by the Democratic Majority's effort over the last 6 years to cut spending and create a leaner more efficient government.

President Obama Speaks in the Capital Region

See highlights from President Obama's speech at Hudson Valley Community College including his mentioning of Schenectady!

Obama: U.S. Will Have Most College Grads by 2020

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The Truth about Health Care Reform

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

Schenectady County Plans to Re-develop former Kmart Site in Glenville Move Foward

Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature, today provided an update on plans to redevelop the former Kmart site in the Town of Glenville at the corner of Saratoga Road (Route 50) and Glenridge Road. The County is working with the owner of the site to recruit a major national retailer to the Town of Glenville. Chair Savage said, “Redevelopment of the Kmart site in Glenville is a top priority for the County’s economic development team. We are making steady progress on the site and we have a major national retailer interested in working with us and the owner of the site. By taking the right steps in the next few months, we will be in a very strong position to develop this site in 2010.”

For more information, click here.

County Residents Save $239,000 Using County Prescription Drug Discount Card

Thanks to the strong leadership of the Democratic Majority on the County Legislature and Chair Susan E. Savage, in five short months Schenectady County residents have saved $239,000 have been filed using the Schenectady County Prescription Drug Discount Card.

“Schenectady County residents are receiving an average 36 percent discount on their prescriptions. Every little bit can help during these difficult economic times,” said Chair Savage. “This program is a great success and I look forward to the drug discount card bringing additional savings to Schenectady County families.”

2.13% Tax Cut in 2010 County Budget

“The current economic and financial climate has been difficult on all of our County residents. I asked County Manager Kathy Rooney to propose a budget that reduces the tax burden on our residents while maintaining the core services we provide to our residents,” said Susan E. Savage, Chairwoman of the Schenectady County Legislature. “I am pleased to announce that our efforts have resulted in a budget that delivers a 2.13% tax cut, the third tax cut in the past five years, and a 3.95% reduction in the County’s full value tax rate, the lowest rate in more than 50 years.”

“This budget was constructed during the most difficult economic downturn since the Great Depression,” said Legislator Philip Fields, Chair of the Legislature’s Ways and Means Committee. “Yet we recognize the need for relief and have provided that to our taxpayers.”

For the past six years, the Democratic Majority on the Schenectady County Legislature has worked to minimize the impact on taxpayers through cuts and creative strategies to control the cost that are within the County’s control. These efforts have resulted in savings of approximately $20 million including:
•Instituting strict hiring and purchasing controls.
•Reducing the County work force by eliminating 200 positions.
•Implementing groundbreaking employee health care cost cutting initiatives, including Medicare Advantage Plans and a Canadian Drug Purchasing Program.
•Implementing a child welfare management program that maintains the health and safety of children while realizing savings through cost effective programming and revenue maximization.
•Reducing the County vehicle fleet by 13%
•Implementing intergovernmental cooperative efforts.

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President Barack Obama's Speech on Healthcare

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Keep the Scotia Post Office Open

The Village of Scotia is known for its quaintness and small-town charm and the Scotia Branch Post Office provides an invaluable service to the residents of the Village as well as serving as a hub of the community. The Scotia Branch Post Office has been a community fixture since its beginning as a WPA project in the 1930s and has provided a valued and vital service to the community ever since.

Now, the branch is one of more than 700 nationwide that could face closure, consolidation or reduction of services by the United States Postal Service.

Last month, County Legislature Chairwoman Susan E. Savage and County Legislators Dr. Brian Gordon and Marty Finn sponsored a resolution strongly urging the United States Postal Service to reconsider its proposal to close or consolidate the Scotia Branch Post Office and asking Representative Paul Tonko, Senator Charles Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand for their assistance in ensuring the Scotia Branch Post Office will remain open to serve the residents of the Village of Scotia.

Please join their effort to keep this postal branch open by signing this petition of support.

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Text messaging while driving ban goes state-wide

Recently, Governor David Paterson signed into law a state text messaging while driving ban. Dozens of upstate counties followed Schenectady County's lead and adopted county bans which led to the state law. The need for this important public safety measure has been supported by a report released by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI). The study showed that text messaging on a cell phone has the highest crash risk of all cell phone related tasks, with the risk of a crash or near crash 23.2 times higher while text messaging as compared to non-distracted driving.

Susan Savage, Chairwoman of the Schenectady County Legislature and sponsor of the County’s Text Messaging While Driving Ban said, “My goal has been to raise awareness to this dangerous and deadly behavior. With increased awareness, I hope that drivers will understand the dangers of text messaging while driving and will instead pull over or wait until they reach their destination before sending a text message.”

Nationally, Senator Charles Schumer is leading the fight to make this a federal law.

TONKO VOTES TO RESTORE FISCAL DISCIPLINE

Congressman Paul Tonko recently voted in favor of the restoration of PAYGO, which passed the House of Representatives. In 2002, the borrow-and-spend Republicans who controlled Congress let PAYGO expire and ran up major deficits.

“This legislation is very simple: Congress can only spend a dollar in one place if it saves it in another,” said Congressman Tonko. “Just as families cut back on eating at a restaurant to pay for a new amenity, Congress must make difficult balancing decisions. We need to confront the enormous deficits we’re facing, bring an end to years of fiscal irresponsibility, and put this country back on a fiscally sustainable path.”

Congressman Tonko added, “We must balance short-term deficit spending for the economic recovery with a commitment to restoring fiscal discipline in the long-term. The large deficits that we inherited from the previous administration as a result of the reckless borrow-and-spend policies have put pressure on funding for our important priorities, such as health care reform, clean energy and education. PAYGO will be a powerful impediment to reckless tax cuts financed by debt.”

For more information, click here.

Schenectady's Revitalization Continues

Recently, Schenectady Light Opera Company announced their plans for new performing arts center in the Arts and Entertainment district in downtown Schenectady. Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature said, “Over the past several years we have worked with Proctors and others to build a thriving downtown arts and entertainment district. This project will be an excellent addition to that effort and will maintain the historical integrity of this beautiful building. I hope the community will join me in supporting the Schenectady Light Opera Company to bring this project to fruition.”

Watch the video of the annoucement below:

Schenectady County secures major economic development win

Schenectady County's unified economic development team scored a major win with General Electric announcing its plans to locate its state-of-the-art battery manufacturing plant on the GE Energy campus. The $100 million battery factory will bring 350 jobs to the county and expands the company's clean energy initiatives.

GE executives credited local officals for working to put this deal together. "Today's announcement is the result of strong, collective support for the plant by the union membership and local government officials," said Larry Blystone, vice president of Global Supply Chain for GE Energy. "The new battery facility represents an exciting new product line for GE and a significant reinvestment in the future of manufacturing in Schenectady."

Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature said, "We worked very hard for more than twelve months to win this project. The new battery plant represents one of the largest investments in the history of Schenectady County. It positions our County to be a leader in renewable energy, an industry expected to create thousands of new jobs in the years ahead."

Watch the announcement below:

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President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

President Obama's Weekly Address

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

More recovery funds coming to Schenectady County

Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will provide $798,270 for General Electric Global Research Center for important biomedical research.

"This funding for biomedical research is a wise investment in the Capital Region economy," said Senator Schumer. "Not only will these federal dollars help New York institutions tackle our biggest health issues, but we will be creating research and teaching positions in the region. I will continue to fight for funding to keep our state's world-class schools and research facilities at the forefront of medicine."

"It is critical that we invest in the life-saving research at our world class medical facilities in the Capital Region," said Senator Gillibrand. "Federal funding for this cutting edge research will advance research and treatment while promoting economic growth for New York. I will continue to work with Senator Schumer to make sure New York gets its fair share of federal dollars."


Click here for more information.

Schumer Annouces $697,000 for energy projects in Schenectady County

Senator Charles E. Schumer recently announced that General Electric’s Global R&D Center in Niskayuna has been selected to receive $697,769 in federal funding for projects that will help address difficulties in the energy market. The funding will specifically focus on wind turbine manufacturing process monitoring.

“This project is a win-win for upstate New York,” said Senator Schumer. “Not only will this funding help keep New York a leader in the clean energy movement, but it will create much-needed jobs across the state. I will continue to fight for funding to support research and development of renewable energy sources to keep New York facilities at the forefront of clean energy technology.”

Click here for more information.

AMENDMENT ADDED TO HEALTH REFORM BILL

An amendment offered by Congressman Paul Tonko to the historic health reform bill was adopted during a marathon mark-up session in the House Education and Labor Committee. The Tonko amendment, which was approved along with a package of other amendments to America’s Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009 (H.R. 3200), addresses shortcomings to the mental health and substance abuse coverage in the bill.

“Mental health conditions and addiction are preventable and treatable chronic diseases – just like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. This amendment will ensure that that these individuals will get the screenings that will lead to diagnoses and hopefully treatment.” said Congressman Tonko. “We need to help those who are vulnerable get the help they need, give doctors the tools to provide services most effectively, and produce long-term savings in prevention that are shared by all in society. This amendment is the first step.”

Click here for more information.

Schenectady Continues to Grow

Recently, Anthology Studio, Inc. marked its grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony in downtown Schenectady. Selecting Schenectady County after considering locations in a number of areas, Anthology Studios has signed a ten-year lease to occupy space in the just-completed Clinton Square complex, a three-story, 23,000-square-foot mixed-use complex across from the Hampton Inn on State Street in downtown Schenectady.

Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature said, "We are excited to welcome Anthology Studio as the first business in the new Clinton Square. Even in this difficult economy, we continue to attract new businesses, both large and small, that are helping us rebuild and revitalize Schenectady County."

For more information, click here.

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Don't miss SummerNight - TONIGHT!

Check out the Ribbon Cutting for the Van Dyck

Another great investment in Schenectady by the McDonald family.

History and Heritage in Schenectady

Check out this video of some of the great sites of interest in Schenectady County.

Schenectady County's economic development team continues investment throughout the county

Metroplex announced recently that it has purchased the former OGS Bakery and warehouse facilities at the Rotterdam Corporate Park.

Metroplex Chair Ray Gillen said, "We are pleased to move forward with this latest redevelopment effort to create new jobs and new tax base in the Town of Rotterdam. At 260,000 square feet this former State-owned facility is one of the largest commercial buildings in Schenectady County.

Click here for more information.

Working together works for improving Schenectady County residents public safety

New York State Secretary of State Lorraine Cortes-Vazquez recently visited Schenectady to announce a $1 million grant for the implementation of a centralized emergency dispatch system through the creation of a unified communications center. This is expected to provide both a cost savings by reducing duplication of services and improve public safety by improving communication between the county's public safety agencies.

“I would like to thank Governor Paterson and Secretary of State Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez for this grant and their commitment to helping local governments work more efficiently to save taxpayers money,” said Susan Savage, Chairwoman of the Schenectady County Legislature. “This grant brings us one step closer to a centralized dispatch system that will improve public safety throughout the county and streamline functions to reduce municipal costs.”

“This funding is proof of what we’ve accomplished working together with each of the communities throughout Schenectady County,” said Judy Dagostino, Schenectady County Legislature Vice Chair and Chairperson of the Intergovernmental Cooperation Committee. “We are all very excited about the prospects for greater efficiency, better coordination and improved effectiveness this grant will bring to our dispatch system in Schenectady County.”

This is another major win that happened because of the Intergovernmental Cooperation Committee. The committee was created in 2004 by the new Democratic Majority on the county Legislature and has saved county residents millions of dollars through identifying duplications in services and smarter ways of doing government work.

Click here for more news coverage.

Paul Mitchell The School is coming to Schenectady!

In another major economic development win, Paul Mitchell The School will be locating its first school in Upstate New York in downtown Schenectady at 411 State Street.

"I am excited to welcome Paul Mitchell to Schenectady County," said Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. "Our economic development team continues to attract unique and diverse businesses to Schenectady County. The addition of a leading national company like Paul Mitchell to our thriving downtown once again shows how our county-wide economic development efforts are working. In five short years we've created more than 3,000 new jobs and attracted more than $300 million in new investment dollars and these numbers continue to grow."

The announcement took place appropriately in the new GE theater, a symbol of the resurgence of downtown Schenectady. This is a $2 million investment in downtown Schenectady that will bring 250 people to the downtown daily and was made possible thanks to the resurgence Schenectady County has seen since 2004. Giulio Veglio is an internationally known trainer, author, motivational speaker, hair designer and salon manager. Veglio is a Schenectady native who discovered the recent resurgence on a visit to Schenectady in December. The Daily Gazette states "The decision to put a school in the city was largely a result of redevelopment efforts — Veglio said he had a vision of Schenectady becoming a smaller version of New York City’s Times Square. 'Every time I turned around something was going on. I was happy to go in and fill the space,” Veglio said. “We had to be a part of this.'"

Click here for more news coverage of this major economic development win.
Click here for more information on the new investment.

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Congressman Paul Tonko votes for landmark energy legislation

Foreign energy sources often involving dangerous associations and the threat of global warming to not only our economy but our very way of life necessitate bold action. Congressman Paul Tonko and House Democrats recently worked to ensure the passage of the American Clean Energy and Security Act, a bill that will create millions of new clean energy jobs, protect the environment, and enhance America’s energy independence.

“This bill is a bold step towards changing our nation’s direction on energy policy, reducing our gluttonous dependence on fossil fuels, and sparking a new economy built on innovation that creates American jobs that cannot be exported,” said Rep. Tonko. “It’s crucial that we act now and push forward with research and development on cutting edge alternative energy technologies, because it’s our opportunity to be the leader in the 21st Century global economy.”

Click here for more information on this important legislation.

Stimulus funds provide important boost to local job training programs

According to the programs website "YouthBuild Schenectady is a 12-month program that helps young adults ages 18-24 from Schenectady County earn a GED while getting paid to build affordable housing. Participants receive six months of classroom instruction and onsite construction training and six months of job placement and support services." In this uncertain economy caused by the Bush Recession, programs such as this have an even more important role in work force training and development.

Thanks to funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which was passed with help from both of our Senators, Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, and our Congressman Paul Tonko, YouthBuild Schenectady will receive $687,500 to teach "green" job skills.

Green collar jobs are considered to be a major part of the future workforce and, thanks to this funding stream, local youths will now be learning these critical skills.

For more news coverage, click here.

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

Schenectady County receives $1.7 million in Federal stimulus funding to finish bike/hike trail

Schenectady County will receive $1.7 million in Federal stimulus money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to connect the entire County for the first time ever via the Mohawk–Hudson Bike/Hike Trail.

“I want to thank Governor Paterson for providing this important funding through the Federal stimulus plan to help us complete a bike and hike trail through Schenectady County,” said Schenectady County Legislature Chair Susan E. Savage. “The bike-hike trail has been a priority of mine and we’ve consistently worked to improve the trail for the enjoyment of all Schenectady County residents. Today’s announcement of grant funding allows us to complete the trail at no cost to County taxpayers.”

Many prospective homeowners, and even some corporations, target communities based on quality of life improvements. The bike trail is one of the great assets that Schenectady County has in selling itself and this project will help enhance that.

For more information on the project and a map of the improvements, click here.

Gillibrand releases plan to make child care affordable, accessible

According to a new report released by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, the cost of child care in the Capital Region is increasing $770 per year. Now the average family spends approximately $9,796 per year for an infant, $8,918 for a toddler and $8,179 for a school-age child. In response to the growing costs, Senator Gillibrand recently proposed plan to make child care more affordable for working families.

"In this difficult economy, parents cannot afford the rising cost of child care. Families' incomes are just not keeping pace," Senator Gillibrand said. "I speak with parents all over New York State, who tell me that something must be done. In addition to making child care more affordable for parents who work and go to school, my plan will provide special assistance to businesses that help their employees with the tremendous costs."

Click here to read the Senator's plan.

Gillibrand Takes Action to Reauthorize Schenectady Renewal Community Program to Revitalize Economy, Create Jobs

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand introduced legislation this week to save and create jobs in Schenectady. The Empowerment Zone and Renewal Community Enhancement Act of 2009 would continue efforts to promote revitalization and economic development through 2015.

"Creating good-paying jobs right here in New York is my top priority," Senator Gillibrand said. "The Renewal Community Program has been critical for the revitalization of Schenectady. During these tough economic times, we must provide the tools and resources our communities need to promote growth, create jobs, and attract businesses. This program is an essential part of our long term economic development efforts."

Click here for more information.

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

Bombers provides major boost to the downtown

The recent opening of Bombers in downtown Schenectady has been a major economic development victory for Schenectady County. The Daily Gazette today quotes local business owners who praised the increase in downtown traffic brought in by the new restaurant. Even other restaurants are bringing in new customers thanks to the excitement of the new opening. To read the article, click here. The unified economic development plan put in place by County Democrats in 2004 continues to pay dividends.

Marcella's Ground Breaking represents the largest investment in Downtown Schenectady in 20 years

"This is the biggest retail development in 20 years in downtown Schenectady and the tide has really turned," said Schenectady County Legislature Chairwoman Susan E. Savage to Capital News 9 at the recent ground breaking ceremony for Marcella and Son's appliance retailer.

At this site nine million dollars in new investment has already been committed for 110,000 square feet of new and renovated business space adding to the nearly three million square feet of space that has been created or renovated since the new Democratic Majority came into office in 2004. The unified economic development plan put in place by Democrats continues to pay dividends despite the hard economic times caused by the Bush Recession.

Click here for more news coverage or watch the ground breaking below.

Major Office Building in Downtown Schenectady Fully Leased

Thanks to three new tenants, including the Social Security Administration, Send Word Now and GTECH Corporation, the 130,500 square foot Broadway Center Office Building, located directly behind Proctors, is now 100% leased.

"We are pleased that One Broadway Center is now fully leased. This is just another example of the continued revitalization of downtown Schenectady and the value the Metroplex Development Authority has brought," said Mark L. Aronowitz of Omni Development Company, Inc.

With $300 million in new investment and more than 3,000 jobs created, change for the better is continuing in Schenectady thanks to the unified economic development plan Schenectady County Democrats put in place in 2004.

For more information, click here.

More proof of the growth in downtown Schenectady

Metroplex has increased the number of paid monthly parking permits in the parking garage and eight surface lots it owns in downtown Schenectady by 476% since 2004.

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

Democrats on the County Legislature announce $75,000 state grant

Schenectady County Legislature Chair Susan E. Savage recently announced that Schenectady County has received a $75,000 Recreation Trails Program state grant the Plotterkill Preserve by adding 20-acres and constructing additional trails.

"We appreciate the support from Governor Paterson and the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation," said Chairwoman Savage. "This grant will increase access to our beautiful trail system for all County residents to enjoy. More importantly the new access point will improve the safety of this trail."

Chair Savage noted the new access point this grant will allow to be created will improve safety by shortening the response time needed for emergency service providers to reach a lost or injured hiker.

For more news coverage, click here.

For more information, click here.

Schenectady County continues its revitalization

The unified economic development team led by Ray Gillen and put in place by County Democrats continues its revitalization of Schenectady County. Metroplex will be providing matching grants to twelve local businesses to help them improve the facades of their businesses in these difficult economic times caused by the Bush Recession. This important facelife will help draw new customers to the revitalized areas and help bring in new potiential businesses.

Click here for more information.

Schenectady County residents save thanks to Democrat-sponsored County Prescription Drug Discount Card

Co-sponsored by Democratic Schenectady County Legislature Chairwoman Susan E. Savage and Legislators Dr. Brian Gordon and Martin Finn, the Schenectady County Prescription Drug Discount Card in just three months has saved Schenectady County residents $104,880.

“Schenectady County residents are receiving an average 35 percent discount on their prescriptions. Every little bit can help during these difficult economic times,” said Schenectady County Legislature Chair Susan E. Savage. “This program is a great success and I look forward to the drug discount card bringing additional savings to Schenectady County families.”

This program is provided at no cost to Schenectady County or county residents.

For more information on the program and how to get a card, click here.

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Over $7 Million in Recovery Act Funding For New York to Combat Violent Crimes Against Women

Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand recently announced $7,374,913 will be allocated to New York State under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for the STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program. The STOP Program supports communities' efforts to hire and retain criminal justice and victim services personnel that respond to violent crimes against women.

"There is nothing more important than protecting women from violent situations," Schumer said. "This funding will go a long way in ensuring that women, communities, and law enforcement have the necessary tools to protect themselves and their communities from needless violence, and that victims have the support they need to recover."

"As a lawmaker and a mother, I will not stand for any violence against women," Senator Gillibrand said. "This federal investment will put the resources we need on the ground to crack down on dangerous criminals hurting women and families. I will work with Senator Schumer and our Congressional Delegation to make sure New York gets its fair share from the federal government to keep our families safe."

For more information, click here.

Schenectady Democrats continue saving money with recycling

The Daily Gazette recently reported that the city of Schenectady has saved $40,000 this year due to increased recycling. A priority of both county and city Democratic officials has been to raise awareness of recycling programs and these efforts are clearly paying off by both protecting our environment and saving taxpayers money.

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

Schenectady County receives stimulus money for infrastructure

Schenectady County will receive $1.9 million in federal stimulus money to repair 6.5 miles of County roads thanks to the continuing investment of the federal stimulus package. “I want to thank Governor Paterson for providing this important funding through the Federal stimulus plan,” said Susan E. Savage, Chairwoman of the Schenectady County Legislature. “The investment in these projects will put people to work in these tough economic times and provide safe roadways for our residents.”

The stimulus legislation was passed with the help of Congressman Paul Tonko, and Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Charles Schumer and signed by President Barack Obama. New York has been one of the most successful states in the nation in getting the federal stimulus money out the door and into the economy.

For more information on this investment in Schenectady County, click here.

DEMOCRATS MEET ON SUNDAY JUNE 7th TO ENDORSE CANDIDATES

The Schenectady County Democratic Committee will meet on June 7th at the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Schenectady at 7:00 pm to endorse candidates for the 2009 elections.

"The town and city committees have put together exceptional slates across the board, said Brian Quail, Chair of the County Committee. "We will be endorsing an outstanding group of candidates dedicated to and capable of delivering the change we need to keep the local economy growing, deliver services cost effectively and meet the challenges of this difficult time."

More details released on stimulus investment at GE

A few weeks ago, Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced millions in stimulus funds would be invested at the GE Research center in Niskayuna for research in renewable energy. Since then, GE has also announced it will build a Capital Region facility to manufacture batteries.

GE will receive between $2 to $5 million a year from the $777 million set aside in the stimulus package for alternative energy research. GE is also the only corporate research center to receive these funds, a major economic development win for Schenectady County.

It is important to remember that GE could have put these jobs anywhere in the world but is continuing their investment in the Capital Region and Schenectady County particularly. Even GE executives credit the new Democratic Majority's commitment to economic growth for their decision to invest here. The Daily Gazette on February 22, 2009 quoted Jan Smith, spokeswoman for GE Energy, as saying "When the new group came in, they said we should have a climate for change. There has been an effort on [their part] to work with us and us with them." The article further stated "Smith credited the changed environment with GE's decision to locate 500 jobs related to solar and wind power generation." Now that investment continues with two more major GE announcements only weeks apart.

Schenectady County is winning again thanks to strong Democratic leadership.

For more news coverage, click here.

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

Plans for Glendale Nursing Home available online

Schenectady County has posted on their website the plans for a new Glendale Nursing Home. On the site you can see video of the Glendale public hearing, photos of the County Legislators who were present, and see the drawings for a new facility.

Below you can read a letter by County Legislator Dr. Brian Gordon explaining the history of the nursing home discussion:

Two myths have been perpetuated about the Glendale nursing home discussion.

The truth is, the issue of a new Glendale home has been discussed by the Legislature and the community at length over a period of years, and preliminary site plans were first presented on May 28, 2008. The Gazette has been covering this topic since 2005.

Plans exist for a new Glendale Home, including preliminary renderings of a new facility which were available at a public hearing Feb. 12 and at the most recent Legislature meeting May 12. The drawings can also be seen on the county Web site. The bond authorization voted May 12 is also part of the plan.

To say “serious” discussion has not occurred is disingenuous. In 2005, we explored several options, including regional approaches for a combined nursing home with Albany County. We ultimately decided it best for Schenectady County residents to construct a new home. The first Certificate of Need application was authorized by the Legislature in November 2006. Serious discussion occurred again Dec. 14, 2006, when a resolution rejecting the Berger Commission recommendations was approved. On June 28, 2007, we authorized the county manager to submit a preliminary implementation plan to the state Department of Health.

In fact, serious discussion occurred four more times. And let us not forget the public hearing held Feb. 12, attended by nearly 200 people.

Schenectady County needs the Glendale home. On average, there is a 99 percent occupancy rate at our skilled nursing facilities. Due to the increased number of patients in need of skilled nursing services, and the decreased availability of beds in the county, hospitals have had to place patients more than 50 miles away — away from their families, who in many cases will never see their loved one again due to the necessary travel.

Glendale serves residents that may not be as attractive to other private facilities, as evidenced by Glendale’s payer mix of 78 percent Medicaid, which is higher than the county’s other facilities. Glendale works directly with Ellis Hospital to take complex cases that other facilities will not, particularly those with cognitive issues such as dementia.

The county Legislature has deliberated for years on the Glendale issue. We have finally decided to develop a new, state-of-the-art complex. It is our moral and ethical responsibility to care for those in need, and to assist those who cannot help themselves. The new Glendale is being built with those goals in mind.

Brian Gordon, M.D.
District 3 County Legislator representing Niskayuna, Glenville, and Scotia
Co-chair of the Glendale subcommittee

President Barack Obama's speech on National Security

President Barack Obama's speech on National Security

President Obama signs Credit Card Reform

President Obama was joined by Senator Charles Schumer for the signing of the important the Credit Card Accountability, Responsiblity, and Disclosure Act of 2009. Congressman Paul Tonko co-sponsored this important legislation.

Click here for a fact sheet about the new law.

Watch the video of President Obama's signing below.

President Barack Obama works for Health Care Reform

President Barack Obama and key Congressional leaders recently spoke to the media about their objective to achieve key health care reforms for all Americans. Below is the video of the event and a link to the new government website on health care reform.



Click here to check out the new website on health care reform

Fortitech provides another major economic development win for Schenectady County

On Tuesday, Fortitech, a local nutrient company, expanded into Glenville with a new facility that will showcase both its product and Schenectady County to representatives from world-wide corporations. This expansion was only possible due to the hard work of Democrats on the Schenectady County Legislature who developed the innovative reuse of County airport land and created a new plan for the Schenectady Couny airport that has brought major savings for taxpayers and expanded the tax base. This two part plan, which began with the sale of County airport land to Fortitech (which was opposed by Republican Legislator Robert Farley), was moved forward with a restructuring of County airport staff (also opposed by Republican Robert Farley).


“Fortitech has called Schenectady County home for over 20 years and it has been a pleasure to watch the company grow. Their willingness to invest in our community by expanding their operations is further evidence of the success of Schenectady County’s unified economic development efforts. This is a great beginning for our new Airport Business Park and we are proud to have a global business leader like Fortitech as the anchor tenant,” stated Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature.

Watch the ribbon cutting below.

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

Tonko Supports Green Schools Act

Congressman Paul Tonko recently voted in support of the 21st Century Green High Performing Public School Facilities Act, which will invest in modernizing, upgrading and repairing school facilities across the country. This legislation will improve education, create jobs and encourage energy efficiency and the use of renewable fuels in our schools.

“These new funds will allow schools to make badly needed repairs to their buildings at a time when state governments are cutting back their education aid,” said Rep. Tonko. “Healthy and high performance schools reduce indoor environment hazards and are energy efficient. Every child deserves a safe, clean and healthy environment in which to learn and this bill is the first step in achieving that goal.”

For more information, click here.

Schenectady County Democrats support Glendale Home

Democrats on the Schenectady County Legislature unanimously voted in support of a highly needed new Glendale Nursing facility to protect our senior and disabled population who need skilled nursing care. For over three years the county Legislature has discussed, debated, and been updated on various proposals. Last Tuesday night was the culmination of these discussions and the beginning of another public process to see the development of final plans and construction.

Recently, the county Legislature held a public hearing at the Glendale facility to allow families, residents, health care professions, and the general public to comment on the proposed new facility. Click here to see what the public has said.

Sadly, not a single Republican county Legislator even showed up to hear what the public had to say. Instead, Republican Minority Leader Farley proudly led his delegation to a political fundraiser while residents of the Glendale Home came out to speak about their future, share their fears, offer their hopes, give insights into their care, and provide hospitality in their home. Maybe their purposeful absense is why the entire Republican minority joined with the new national Republican Party mantra and declared itself the "Party of No" by voting against this important facility.

Major parkland expansion passes county Legislature

Recently, Schenectady County Chairwoman Susan E. Savage, and Legislators Marty Finn, and Dr. Brian Gordon sponsored and the Schenectady County Legislature adopted a new local law to create 24 acres of new parkland in the town of Niskayuna adjacent to the Woodlawn Preserve. This constitutes one of the largest parkland creations in Schenectady County history and continues to build upon the Democrats on the Schenectady County Legislature's committment to protect the environment and green space.

"This legislation will continue our efforts to leave Schenectady County a better place for our children and grandchildren," said Chairwoman Susan E. Savage. "By creating this parkland we will protect ecologically significant wetlands and provide new recreational space for our residents."

"We are very pleased that Legislators Savage, Finn and Gordon introduced the legislation that will convey additional parklands to Niskayuna," said Joe Landry, Niskayuna Town Supervisor. "By designating this land as parkland, over 24 acres will now remain a natural sanctuary in the Town. Also, we will be able to use a portion of these lands for the creation of a neighborhood park on Stanford Avenue."

Several members of the public including representatives of the Schenectady County Environmental Advisory Council came to the public hearing and testified in favor of this local law. In fact, not a single person spoke against its creation, except Republican Minority Leader Robert Farley, who voted against the designation of parkland.

Much of the parkland is considered remnant Pine Push and is part of the Woodlawn Pine Barrens-Wetlands Complex identified by the New York State Open Space and Conservation Plan as one of the region’s open space priorities for preservation. The creation of this parkland will complement current preservation activities in neighboring communities creating a link to other
protected open space and the larger Albany Pine Bush Preserve.

County Democrats support of Community College continues to pay off

Schenectady County Community College this week graduated its first student from its new Associate Degree in Nanoscale Materials Technology program. This cutting edge technology program is helping to prepare a new workforce for the new Tech Valley. Major local employers such as GE and SuperPower will be able to hire graduates to work in new high paying manufacturing jobs. Also, AMD will need similarly educated workers for the new tech jobs they are bringing to the Capital Region.

This public-private partnership is a model for using community colleges as catalysts for economic growth. Schenectady County Legislature Chairwoman Susan E. Savage was quoted in the Daily Gazette saying, "We created a very good partnership that's going to serve our community well for years to come."

Schenectady County Democrats have made support of the community college part of their continuing economic development efforts. Last year, understanding the difficult economic times and the need to invest in community college level education for the changing workforce, Democrats on the county Legislature sponsored an $80,000 increase in the County's annual sponsorship contribution, bringing the total to approximately $2 million. The legislature also appointed Niskayuna-resident Sharon Daley, a senior HR executive for General Electric, to the Board of Trustees, strengthening the relationship between the college and the local business community.

Paterson, Savage, Tonko announce General Electric "Green Jobs" investment

Last Monday in Niskayuna, Governor David Paterson, Congressmen Paul Tonko and Scott Murphy, and local Democratic elected officials including County Leglislature Chairwoman Susan E. Savage, Niskayuna Town Supervisor Joe Landry, and Schenectady Mayor Brian Stratton, joined in annoucing with General Electric plans to build a $100 million battery factory in the Capital Region near its R&D center in Niskayuna. The state has promised significant investment in their proposal and is supporting GE's efforts to obtain federal stimulus dollars to create green collar jobs in the Capital Region.

This announcement comes on the heels of the major annoucement by Senators Schumer and Gillibrand that stimulus money will be going to Niskayuna-based GE Global Research to research new battery technology. Congressman Paul Tonko played a key role in shaping this part of the stimulus bill to provide for differing battery technologies. It was this key change that allowed GE to seek this investment.

It is important to remember that GE could have put these jobs anywhere in the world but is continuing their investment in the Capital Region and Schenectady County particularly. Even GE executives credit the new Democratic Majority's committment to economic growth for their decision to invest here. The Daily Gazette on February 22, 2009 quoted Jan Smith, spokeswoman for GE Energy, as saying "When the new group came in, they said we should have a climate for change. There has been an effort on [their part] to work with us and us with them." The article further stated "Smith credited the changed environment with GE's decision to locate 500 jobs related to solar and wind power generation." Now that investment continues with two more major GE annoucements only weeks apart.

Schenectady County is winning again thanks to strong Democratic leadership.

Schenectady County ends year with a surplus despite difficult economic times

Schenectady County ended 2008 with a $33.7 million surplus, according to the Daily Gazette, thanks to smart budgeting in these difficult economic times. Schenectady County Democrats worked on a budget without empty gimmicks that would have led to a fiscal crisis and the fruit of that labor is apparent.

Since the new Democratic Majority took leadership in the Schenectady County Legislature, it is has been their priority to make smarter more efficient government a reality in Schenectady County. Taxpayers have saved more than $10 million through a reduction of 250 positions in county government employment The total County workforce has been reduced by 11% since 2004 despite state mandated increases in Correction and Social Services staff.

They have combined these efficiencies with developing new and smarter ways to do business. Schenectady County Democrats established the first Canadian mail order prescription drug plan in New York state, a companion domestic mail order program, and a county employee waiver system for benefits which saves taxpayers $5.2 million annually. They worked together over some Republican opposition to eliminate the personal use of county vehicles and cell phones by county employees as perks saving taxpayers over $200,000 since 2005. They brought a new management style that reformed the Public Defender's Office and established a Conflict Defenders Office saving county taxpayers over $300,000 a year since 2005 while ensuring all county residents are treated fairly and they established a consolidated County Legal department under the County Attorney saving taxpayers $500,000 through aggressive collection of outstanding debts owed the county, consumer protection violation fine recoveries, and limited use of outside attorneys.

These are just some of the reforms put in place in the last 6 years. Schenectady County Democrats continue to work on developing new and innovative ways for operating government to ensure County residents continue to receive the services they need while providing saving to taxpayers.

President Barack Obama's Weekly Address

Gillibrand Pushes Historic Bill to Provide Health Coverage to All Children

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has joined in the introduction of the Medikids Insurance Act, a historic bill that would provide health coverage to all children by 2015.

"Getting everyone covered with affordable, comprehensive health care is a national priority and a moral responsibility," Senator Gillibrand said. "As a mother of two young boys, I know how important it is to secure health insurance for all children. This commonsense bill is the right step to cover all young people. When we get everyone covered, we'll ensure better health, provide better opportunities toward a bright future for our kids and young adults, and reduce the costs of care for all of us."

For more information, click here.

SCDC Executive Committee Endorses 2009 County Candidates

"In this time of challenge, it is the duty of our party to advance candidates prepared to lead and who know how to get results on the issues that matter to working families. The 2009 slate of Democratic candidates have delivered results and they are committed to forging ahead on the path of change that creates jobs in our local economy, keeps our streets safe, and reduces the property tax burden," said Brian Quail, Chairman of the Schenectady County Democratic Committee.

The Executive Committee of the Schenectady County Democratic Committee recently made the following unanimous endorsements for countywide offices and county legislature races:

District Attorney -- Robert M. Carney

Sheriff -- Dominic A. Dagostino

Member of County Legislature District 1 -- Karen B. Johnson

Member of County Legislature District 2 -- Philip A. Fields

Member of County Legislature District 3 -- Susan E. Savage
Member of County Legislature District 3 -- Brian M. Gordon
Member of County Legislature District 3 -- Martin S. Finn

Member of County Legislature District 4 -- Judith A. Dagostino
Member of County Legislature District 4 -- Holly C. Vellano