Yates County legislators are preparing to meet with State Senator Tom O’Mara and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano to discuss a range of pressing issues impacting local residents, farms, and businesses.
According to the meeting agenda, top concerns include New York State’s bail reform and raise-the-age laws, which local officials believe have led to increased repeat offenses. Law enforcement representatives are expected to share their perspectives and suggest possible reforms.
Infrastructure and agricultural concerns are also a priority, with lawmakers seeking more state funding for county roads and questioning proposed restrictions on dairy farm sizes. Support for the region’s grape industry, which continues to face economic challenges, will also be discussed.
County leaders are pushing for expanded access to natural gas to reduce dependence on electricity and are raising questions about the safety and future of lithium battery storage sites as power demand grows.
Other topics include recruitment struggles for EMS services — with a call for comparable financial incentives to those offered to fire departments — as well as the local impact of potential federal cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. Legislators also plan to question discrepancies in sales tax revenue and state administrative fees.
The meeting will include a public comment period, giving community members a chance to share their views on the issues being discussed.
The special meeting starts at 12 p.m. and will be followed by the monthly meeting of the Legislature.
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