County Conversations

This episode features a conversation highlighting the work of NAMI New York State and the importance of connection, advocacy, and local partnerships in promoting mental health awareness. NYSAC Multimedia Specialist Kate Pierce-Nimz is joined by James Norton from NAMI New York State to discuss peer support programs, stigma-free workplaces, advocacy efforts, and how counties can strengthen mental he...

This episode features a conversation on New York State Parks, featuring public spaces that enhance recreation, strengthen communities, and celebrate New York’s history. NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. They discuss New York’s state parks and historic sites, the growing...

This episode features a conversation on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and recent federal changes including reductions in administrative funding, as well as tightened work requirements. The conversation focuses on how these changes to the program will affect how counties are able to effectively administer this program Dave Lucas, NYSAC’s Director of Finance and Intergovernmen...

This episode of NYSAC's County Conversations Podcast features a conversation about the role of a county Administrator. Joining NYSAC's Deputy Director Mark LaVigne is Green County Administrator Shaun Groden.

This episode features members of NYSAC’s legislative team discussing the latest developments in New York State’s budget negotiations. NYSAC's Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Dave Lucas and Alex Regan for a conversation on key budget negotiations impacting county governments across New York, including rising pension costs, potential Tier 6 reforms, and major federal and state cost...

This episode features a conversation with Priority Power’s Vice President Aleks Urosevic to discuss the trends affecting electricity and natural gas markets. Joined by Mark LaVigne, they also discuss how MEGA helps counties, municipalities, and school districts secure competitive energy pricing.

This episode features a conversation on the priorities shaping this year’s state legislative session and budget negotiations. Joining NYSAC’s Multimedia Specialist Kate Pierce-Nimz are members of NYSAC’s Legislative Team: Alex Regan, Legislative Director, and Dave Lucas, Director of Finance & Intergovernmental Affairs. They highlight both the investments counties support, and the areas where r...

In this episode, NYSAC Deputy Director Mark LaVigne is joined by Omar Usmani, CEO of Aeon Nexus. They discuss how counties and local governments can modernize justice systems through improved case management, workflow automation, and secure technology platforms. The conversation explores ways counties can increase efficiency, improve transparency, and better serve their communities. Aeon Nexus is...

In this special joint episode of NYSAC's County Conversations and NYAOT’s Talk of the Town, the three executive directors of New York’s statewide municipal associations come together to discuss the collective and individual issues the associations and municipal membership are most concerned about. Mark LaVigne, Deputy Director of the New York State Association of Counties, is joined by Stephen Acq...

This episode of County Conversations, part of NYSAC’s NY Counties Lead initiative, highlights how counties are leading on public safety and emergency preparedness. NYSAC’s Kate Pierce-Nimz joined Erie County Community Coalition Coordinator Lindsay Wright, and Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera for a conversation exploring Erie County’s designation as a HEARTSafe Community by the Citizen CPR Foun...

In this episode, NYSAC’s Patrick Cummings is joined by longtime friend and mentor Paul Eldridge, Putnam County Personnel Officer. With more than four decades of leadership in Putnam County and a career that spans nearly 50 years, Paul has been a pillar of the civil service community in New York State. From civil service law to mentoring the next generation, Paul shares lessons learned, career high...

In this year-end episode of County Conversations, NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Joseph Rulison, Co-Founder of three+one, for an annual economic outlook. Together, they review the surprises, shifts, and standout trends that defined 2025, and forecast what county leaders need to know as they prepare for 2026. This episode is sponsored by the Alliance for Clean Energy New Yor...

This episode of features a conversation with NYSAC’s Kate Pierce-Nimz, joined by Jordan Brown of Rx Destroyer, to explore how counties can strengthen public health, protect waterways, and support residents through safe medication disposal. From bridging gaps in take-back programs to offering easy, at-home solutions, Jordan explains how innovative tools and local partnerships can reduce harm, empow...

This episode features a conversation with NYSAC’s Executive Director Stephen Acquario and Philip Church, newly elected NYSAC President and Oswego County Administrator. They discuss Phil’s journey in county government, the challenges and opportunities of regional economic development, as well as NYSAC priorities for the year ahead. This episode is sponsored by the Alliance for Clean Energy New York...

This episode features a conversation that unpacks New York’s updated short-term rental law and what it means for counties across the state. NYSAC Deputy Director Mark LaVigne is joined by Nick Del Pego, CEO of Deckard Technologies to discuss the practical benefits of establishing a short-term rental registry and a clear roadmap for local leaders navigating compliance, education, and enforcement. 

This Director’s Cut episode features an in-depth conversation on federal actions that are directly impacting New York’s counties. NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Matt Chase, Executive Director of the National Association of Counties (NACo). They discuss shifting federal immigration policy, the implications of proposed Medicaid and SNAP reforms, as well as the state and local...

This episode features a conversation on Senate Bill 6956 (Ryan)/Assembly Bill 8720 (Stirpe), which would raise the earnings cap for retired public employees who return to work in public service, increasing the limit from $35,000 to $50,000. NYSAC’s Legislative Director Ryan Gregoire is joined by Tom Tatun, Executive Director of the Retired Public Employees Association to discuss how this legislati...

This episode of County Conversations focuses on how counties can fight the opioid epidemic and reduce stigma around substance use disorders. NYSAC Multimedia Specialist Kate Pierce-Nimz is joined by Cheryl Moore, Independent Consultant at Opioid Consulting, and Amanda Lucchino, Director of Business Development at Trellis Marketing . They discuss how counties can effectively engage residents in opi...

This episode features a conversation with Maureen O’Brien, President and CEO of the New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID). The episode features a celebration of NYSID’s 50th anniversary, and focuses on how partnerships with counties and local governments across New York State are driving economic impact, enhancing community inclusion, and fostering a strong statewide workforce.

This Director’s Cut episode features a conversation on celebrations planned for NYSAC's centennial year in 2025. NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Benjamin Boykin II, Westchester County legislator and President of NYSAC to discuss upcoming events, historic research, and a vision of the past 100 years of service to counties. 

For our last episode of the year, NYSAC’s Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Joseph Rulison, CEO and Co-Founder of three+one . This episode provides a financial outlook for county leaders, and a forecast for the year ahead in 2025.   

This Director’s Cut episode features a conversation on emergency management during the Whitehouse fire in Ulster County. NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger to discuss what the emergency response entailed and preparations for future emergencies.

This Director’s Cut episode features a conversation on emergency management during the recent Jennings Creek wildfire. NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario is joined by Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus to discuss response strategies and what was involved in battling the wildfire and keeping residents safe.

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 Mi...