Final Session of the Year

In Their Final Session of 2021, Legislators Pass New Districts, Approve Contract for Public Health Nurses, Accept More Emergency Rental Assistance Program Funding

This week the Legislature wrapped up its business for 2021 with the passage of 24 resolutions and a Local Law. Much of the agenda was calling for public hearings for sewer projects and apportioning water district taxes, but there were three key votes taken.

Legislator Burtis, Chair of the Ways & Means Committee, put forward a resolution to approve the contract between Onondaga County and the New York State Nurses Association. The public health nurses of the County Health Department were true heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic, putting themselves in harm’s way when there was still so much unknown about this virus. They worked tirelessly to help our community deal with and protect themselves from the pandemic, and when vaccinations became available, many worked six-day weeks to provide life-preserving vaccines. The passage of this contract is just one way we can thank these nurses for all they do, and it will ensure they receive the pay they deserve at the County Health Department.

Legislator Abbott has been at the forefront of the Emergency Rental Assistance Program. This week she brought another resolution approving the receipt of over $9 million in funds to be distributed to residents in need of rent relief. This program has been vital to our community in that it not only takes care of tenants, but ensures landlords are not going months without receiving income on their properties that they count on. Once again, we are thankful to be able to fill this service gap for the City of Syracuse.

Finally, the Legislature heard arguments and positions on two proposed maps from the Redistricting Commission. In the end, Legislators voted to pass “Map 4” and sent the local law to the desk of the County Executive. The redistricting process, done every ten years, has not been without strife, but the result is a fair and equitable map that serves the residents of Onondaga County well.

This was also Legislator Judy Tassone’s and Legislator Kevin Holmquist’s final session in their elected positions. Both are heading into retirement from public service after long and admirable careers standing up for residents in their districts. Their commitment to prudent government and their institutional knowledge has helped shape the County Legislature for years, and they will be greatly missed.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year, from the Onondaga County Legislature Republican Caucus!