Following proposal in 2023 State of the County, Byrne’s Plan to Fix County Buildings moves forward

Carmel NY – Last night, in a unanimous vote, the Putnam County Legislature approved Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne’s Facilities Improvement Fund. This $2 million budget transfer will be used exclusively for the purpose of making desperately needed improvements and repairs to existing county facilities.

“The condition of numerous County facilities has deteriorated over the past decade,” said County Executive Byrne. “Many of our existing facilities that provide for the core functions of county government need serious repairs and upgrades. Our public employees deserve to work in buildings they can take pride in, and where they feel safe and secure. Likewise, our residents and visitors who utilize our county spaces and services should feel the same.”

“This is a great investment for our county and our future,” said Legislator Bill Gouldman, Chair of the Physical Services Committee. “While our residents may not frequent these buildings every day, the public servants working for our residents are. They need facilities that are conducive to serving our constituents. I’m delighted my colleagues in the legislature all agreed to support this measure.”

Examples of specific projects the County Facilities Improvement Fund can be used for were cited in County Executive Byrne’s State of the County and, subject to additional legislative approval, include structural repairs to the Board of Elections building as well as exterior and roof repairs at the Koehler Memorial Senior Center. The fund is expected to also be used to support various ADA accessibility improvements in County Executive Byrne’s recommitment to ThinkDIFFERENTLY; a movement to change the way individuals, government, and businesses think about and interact with those of all abilities.

“Making sure our employees have a comfortable environment in which to work, increasing accessibility, and making county facilities more welcome to residents should be a priority and I’m proud to have supported the measure,” said Legislative Chairman Paul Jonke. “I thank the County Executive for proposing this budget transfer in his State of the County, and look forward to seeing these projects move forward.”

These improvements come after years of improvements were focused on more recreational facilities under the County’s purview, such as Tilly Foster Farm and the County Golf Course. Other improvements and repairs will be added as the Capital Projects Workgroup evaluates the needs of each county department and division, and provides recommendations to the Legislature.