Republican County Legislator James Buhrmaster is now a party of one.
The Schenectady County Legislature held its swearing in ceremonies for elected officials on Tuesday, Jan. 3, with its organizational meeting following. Also, its first committee meetings of the year were held the same night.
Democrats celebrated their recent election victories, which included gaining another seat, before tackling business. Buhrmaster, R-Glenville, rose to minority leader of his party, but he is now the sole GOP voice left on the legislature.
New York State Supreme Court Judge Vito Caruso swore in Buhrmaster and commented on his status.
“I know you’ll have a difficult time at caucus, but I’m sure you’ll do well,” Caruso said, which drew laughter from Buhrmaster and the crowd gathered.
Following the recent election, Democrats hold 13 seats in the legislature, but Conservative Holly Vellano caucuses with the Democrats. Buhrmaster holds the only remaining Republican seat in District 3 representing the Towns of Niskayuna and Glenville and the Village of Scotia.
Legislator Judith Dagostino, D-Rotterdam, was unanimously nominated to continue as chairwoman of the county legislature.
“I am both honored and humbled as being selected as chair of the Schenectady County Legislature for the new term,” Dagostino said after being appointed. “While your vote of confidence and support in my ability is appreciated, it is but a small portion of what this deliberative body is charged with performing.”
The successful recent history of the county, she said, was due to hard work and efforts of many people involved, including the county administration.
“They have demonstrated a willingness to consistently go above and beyond the valuable services we provide for our residents,” she said. “Our 2011 success in mitigating Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee serves as one example of what could not have been achieved without their dedication and effort.”
In the county, she said the legislature has been able to “hold the line” on property taxes and she touted the job creation that’s occurred.
“We are successfully restructuring and streamlining county government and changing the fundamental way we provide services to control our cost,” she said.
She continued to outline her focus for the year ahead facing the legislature.
First, she said the county would expand efforts to be greener and focus on environmental awareness.
“Conserving our natural resources, controlling our carbon footprint, will reduce our energy costs,” she said.
Continuing and encouraging economic development agencies within the county is another focus for her. Creating private sector jobs is vital to expanding the tax base and help control taxes, she said.
The new Glendale Nursing Home also is strongly supported by Dagostino, which Buhrmaster and past Minority Leader Robert Farley have expressed opposition on due to the large investment the county would need to put in.
“Out efforts to provide a modern, up to date and cost efficient Glendale Home where our seniors can age with dignity will remain a priority,” Dagostino said.
