Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Clinton County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
14 issues in public safety
Coroner's Office staffing and sustainability crisis
Since elected coroner Chad Deans stepped down in June, the county has leaned on an Essex County interim coroner, two new deputies, a new death-certificate position, and now Deans himself on call — with no permanent plan. A taxpayer told the board response delays have hit four hours and demanded a transparent, legally sound fix.
Eviction prevention and Code Blue shelter funding
New state grant accounts were set up for the SAEF eviction-forestallment program and the Code Blue cold-weather shelter — help for renters behind on rent and people needing warmth on deadly cold nights.
Public Safety and Victims Services Grants
A bundle of budget resolutions set up or adjusted grant funding for the District Attorney's victim-witness work and five Sheriff's Department traffic-safety programs.
Corrections Officers Labor Contract
Contract negotiations with correction officers are underway — two meetings in, with two more scheduled, and things appear to be going well.
Cellular Coverage Gaps in the Adirondacks
A regional broadband and cellular study found large swaths of the Adirondacks with weak or no cell service — a serious concern for 911 calls and emergency response. A final report will recommend where new towers should go.
Public Health Department updates
Two nurse positions and an office manager are filled, the county has one confirmed monkeypox case, and the state clarified infrastructure grant money can't pay for infrastructure — limiting county options. Interviews for the next public health director are being scheduled.
Sheriff and public safety staffing
The legislature approved a batch of staffing resolutions — new and backfilled correction officers, a deputy sheriff hire, junior ADA and victim services advocate positions, and several DA office backfills. These affect jail staffing, prosecution capacity, and victim support services.
Disposable vape waste and illegal nicotine products
The Board of Health heard a presentation on a county-issued retail permit for tobacco and flavored nicotine products, aimed at curbing illegal sales and lost tax revenue; its budget has been sent to the county administrator.
Zone 9 Police Academy Launch
The county's police academy partnership officially launched at a signing ceremony attended by the state Labor Commissioner, a workforce-development win for local public safety staffing.
Deputy coroner coverage
The county will contract with a deputy coroner so someone always responds when the appointed coroner is out of the country or unavailable. Legislators made sure it won't add costs right now.
Veterans peer-to-peer support program
A Dwyer grant will fund a peer-to-peer support program through the Veteran Service Agency, with matching county appropriation.
Overdose intervention grant acceptance
The county accepted a New York State grant to fund overdose intervention work through its mental health and addiction services office.
Anti-harassment policy update
The county tightened its workplace non-discrimination and sexual harassment prevention policy based on its PREA coordinator's recommendations.
Recognition of South Plattsburgh Fire Department volunteers
The county formally commended three members with 35 years of service and one with 65 years — a nod to the volunteer fire service that keeps the community safe.