County Conversations

This episode features a conversation on the evolving dynamics in hiring and workforce management. Joining NYSAC Intern Maya Rotman is Ian Coyle, Livingston County Administrator, and public management consultant. They discuss the importance of proactive engagement, effective communication, and strategic planning to attract and retain a skilled county workforce.

This episode highlights Operation Green Light, an initiative that shows support for our nation's veterans, raises awareness of the county role in providing support and resources to veterans, and advocates for legislation that will strengthen counties' ability to support veterans. Joining NYSAC’s Communications Manager Tom Oldfather NYSAC’s Executive Director Stephen Acquario, as well as Michael Middaugh, Director of the Tioga County Veterans Service Agency and President of the NYS County Veterans Service Officers Association.

This episode features a conversation with NYSAC’s Multimedia Specialist Kate Pierce-Nimz and Benjamin Boykin II, Westchester County Legislator and President of NYSAC. This conversation focuses on his path to county government leadership, planning for centennial celebrations in 2025, and what’s in store for county advocacy in New York State over the year ahead.

This episode features a conversation on NYSAC’s County Government Institute, a certification and education program for New York State’s county officials. Through rigorous coursework and training, CGI equips county officials with the tools to govern effectively, engage in constructive civic discussions, and address local needs. Multimedia Specialist Kate Pierce-Nimz is joined by Stephen Acquario, NYSAC Executive Director, and Jeanette Stanziano, Director of Education and Training.

This episode features a conversation on the Herkimer County Children’s Center, a facility that will house a daycare, a children’s mental health clinic, developmental pediatrics, space for nutrition education, and many other community-oriented services. Joining NYSAC’s Multimedia Specialist Kate Pierce-Nimz for the conversation is Christina Cain, Herkimer County Public Health Director.

This episode features county officials from New York State and their experience learning and networking with the National Association of Counties (NACo). These county officials attended a conference earlier this summer in Tampa, where they were able to bring local concerns to a national level, participate in workshops on innovative topics, and connect with peers in county government from across the country.

This episode features a conversation on providing mental health services in a rural community. NYSAC’s Multimedia Specialist Kate Pierce-Nimz is joined by Sarah Nies, , Director of the Schoharie County Office of Community Services, and Co-Chair of CLMHD’s Mental Health Committee.

This episode focuses on workforce development initiatives in Oswego County, including becoming the first county in the Northeastern United States to achieve the designation of a Work Ready Community. Joining NYSAC’s Multimedia Specialist Kate Pierce-Nimz is Rachel Pierce, Director of Oswego County’s Department of Workforce Development, as well as County Administrator Philip Church.

This episode features a conversation on NY’s 529 College Savings Program. Joining NYSAC’s Executive Director Stephen Acquario is Steve Tommasone from Ascensus Broker Dealer Services, LLC the Program Manager for NY’s 529. Many NY counties provide payroll deduction for employees to participate in this program. For more information on the program, visit www.nysaves.org

This episode features a conversation on efforts to advance county priorities coming up on the end of the state legislative session. You'll hear from Ryan Gregoire and Dave Lucas from NYSAC's Legislative team as they discuss NYSAC’s legislative program and key concerns on the horizon.