Government, Law and Legal Services
Lake George Village Mayor Bob Blais will not seek reelection at the end of his term in two years, and the Village of Lake George government might not be there, either, a story in the Post-Star reports. Blais has held the position of mayor since 1971 and is the longest still-serving mayor in the nation. The Village government itself is considering dissolution as a way to save money.
A COVID-19 relief package is coming to small businesses and municipalities under the new, Democratically-controlled Senate, a story in the Albany Times-Union says. In an interview, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) says the top priority will be $2,000 stimulus checks to people. He also said the Biden Administration, through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, can reimburse governments 100% of COVID-related emergency expenses, instead of the 75% they are allowed now.
Environment, Energy and Sustainability
The “Green Amendment” to the New York State constitution passed in the State Senate, the Adirondack Daily Enterprise is reporting this morning. The amendment must still pass in the House of Delegates. Since it passed both house and senate last year, it will go to voters in November, if it passes this year. Sen. Dan Stec (R-Qby) voted against, saying it was too vague. Del. Matt Simpson (R-Horicon) says he will vote for it.
Architecture, Engineering and Development
Developer Charles "Chuck" Hoffman Sr. has submitted plans for a 40,000 square foot medical office building at Ushers Road and Route 9 in Clifton Park, the Albany Business Journal is reporting. The story says he is building on spec, meaning he does not yet have a tenant but believes he can fill the space.