Submitted by Rensselaer County
On Tuesday, March 12th, Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin delivered his annual State of the County (SOTC) address for 2024, in the legislative chambers at 99 Troy Road in East Greenbush. McLaughlin began by leading legislators in a moment of silence for Casey Frankoski, who was killed last week in a helicopter crash while patrolling the Texas-Mexico border with the National Guard.
The SOTC was the second delivered at county offices at 99 Troy Road, a centerpiece of the Reimagine Rensselaer County Facilities project initiated by McLaughlin with support from the Legislature to modernize county facilities. Along with the county offices, the project has included renovation of the County Office Building in downtown Troy, construction of a second DMV, development of a new senior center in Troy, and more.
The 37 percent property tax reduction over the past six budgets has helped to generate investment and growth in the county, with property value growing from $14.3 billion in 2023 to $15.8 billion in 2024.
The county is also seeing record performance in sales tax and retail activity, and has earned a series of positive independent audits, record-high bond ratings, and unprecedented earnings for interest income.
In addition, American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds are being used for the extension of water and sewer infrastructure in Schodack, North Greenbush, and Poestenkill.
Along with infrastructure improvements, the county is also readying a project to update the Van Rensselaer Manor nursing home, which was opened over 25 years ago.
