Members of the Albany County Legislature were honored to attend the 14th State of Albany County Address from County Executive Daniel P. McCoy on Tuesday on the former College of Saint Rose Campus.

With the Executive focusing on public safety, public health, affordability, and economic development, legislators were interested in his vision of the future direction he sees the County taking in 2025.

Albany County Legislature Chairwoman Joanne Cunningham said:

Albany County is beginning one of the most important stretches of decision-making in, arguably, the last century.

I am encouraged by what our County Executive laid out and am inspired by his enthusiasm, creativity, compassion, and drive to make this County a better place. I support maintaining public safety and access to healthcare services. As many know, the County’s largest spending area is on social services and I believe that one of government’s greatest strengths is supporting these efforts. As the Executive pointed out many challenges – homelessness, food insecurity, the opioid crisis, probation re-entry, and veterans’ mental health – exist here in Albany County. They occur too frequently and affect too many. We as a Legislature will continue to lead the way in addressing them head-on.

Albany County Legislature Deputy Chairwoman Wanda Willingham said:

This is a time of transition here in Albany County and as county leaders, now is the time to take bold action. The Legislature is committed to a housing agenda that focuses on affordability, aiding those struggling with opioids, and continuing to encourage exploration of new kinds of education in STEM and even E-Sports as the Executive outlined today.

I have known the County Executive for a long time and I appreciate that he is laying out steps to directly research and understand our aging population while also relieving food insecurity and childcare concerns for families throughout Albany County. Both of these areas directly impact historically marginalized and underserved parts of the county.

The most alarming issues I believe we face right now in Albany County are related to our residents who aren’t able to afford a roof over their heads, aren’t sure where their next meal is coming from, aren’t able to find a job, and aren’t hopeful about the future. With what I heard today and with the ongoing investment from the Albany County Legislature, I am starting to feel that hope come back. There has to be follow-through, for sure, but at least there is recognition of problems and consideration of solutions.

In that vein, I hope Executive McCoy continues to follow through on the points he laid out today including those related to child care initiatives, re-entry and workforce development, and focusing on our seniors. I’m particularly excited by the news that Lawson Lake will once again be an inviting space for youth and families to enjoy. I will continue to advocate for all of the people of Albany County and do my best to assist him in serving everyone.

Albany County Legislative Majority Leader Dennis Feeney said:

“Albany County is strong, and we are building a future that is safer, healthier, and more affordable for everyone. Under County Executive McCoy's leadership, we continue to push forward with bold, progressive initiatives that uplift our communities and drive economic growth. I look forward to working together to turn these initiatives into action for our County.”