Poughkeepsie… Dutchess County Executive William R. Steinhaus is meeting today with nearly 800 county officials from across New York State at the 2010 New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) Legislative Conference in Albany, New York to address and discuss a range of issues impacting the fate of New York State and its communities.

The speaker at today’s plenary luncheon was State University of New York (SUNY) Chancellor Nancy Zimpher.   Ms. Zimpher became the first woman SUNY chancellor in June 2009.  Ms. Zimpher was enthusiastic about the key role the SUNY system will play in revitalizing New York State’s economy.

"Colleges have a vital role in our economic and job development.   We are seeing the impact at our own Dutchess Community College, where enrollment increased by 16% this past fall,” said County Executive Steinhaus.  “It was reassuring to hear the SUNY Chancellor’s commitment to the SUNY structure to ensure its continuing success.”

Later today, County Executive Steinhaus will participate in a joint meeting of county executives, chairs of county legislative boards and county administrators about the economic condition of New York State and the impact on county government operations across the state.   Primary on the agenda will be the need for state mandate relief and reform.

“County leaders from across the state have a clear message for our state elected leaders – reform the state’s oppressive mandate structure and rein in spending,” said County Executive Steinhaus.   “Unfortunately, county government finances are impacted by how New York State chooses to handles its finances.  Local property taxpayers cannot afford the cost shift solution that state has historically chosen.” 

“The fiscal challenges we all face offer an opportunity to make fundamental reforms that can improve program delivery and increase overall efficiency,” Steinhaus continued.

The New York State Association of Counties is a bipartisan municipal association serving all 62 counties of New York State including the City of New York. Organized in 1925, NYSAC’s mission is to represent, educate and advocate for member counties and the thousands of elected and appointed county officials who serve the public.