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Gov. Hochul News Release, June 27, 2025 – Federal Cuts Would Cause 44,000 North Country Residents To Lose Health Coverage and Slash Food Assistance for Nearly 90,000 People Across the Region
Governor Kathy Hochul today slammed Washington Republicans for threatening the jobs, small businesses and health care of New Yorkers throughout the North Country. Impacts of federal tariffs and dangerous rhetoric have already harmed 66 percent of regional businesses that rely on Canadian tourism — putting one in four of the industry’s jobs at risk. Washington’s senseless trade war has also threatened the region’s vital agriculture industry, which generates more than 8,600 jobs for local residents and over $1 billion in Gross Regional Product. Meanwhile, the federal budget cuts pushed by Republicans threaten to take away health care for 44,000 North Country residents and slash food assistance for nearly 90,000 people throughout the region – including tens of thousands of children.
“Between insulting our Canadian neighbors and largest trade partners to proposing deep budget cuts that threaten hospitals, food programs and working families, the North Country is being hit from all sides.These actions are doing real harm — putting jobs, care and livelihoods at risk,” Governor Hochul said. “I have said from the beginning, ‘Your family is my fight’ and while Washington is implementing policies that are disastrous for the North Country, we are stepping up to protect our communities, support small businesses and farmers and ensure that the North Country is not forgotten.”
Tariffs and Tourism
Federal tariffs and trade policies as well as negative rhetoric have had an immense impact on the North Country’s economy. Of all New York State counties, the tourism industry is most important to the North Country in terms of employment, generating nearly 20,000 jobs in 2023. Agribusiness provides over 8,600 jobs to the North Country, contributing approximately $1.1 billion to New York State’s Gross Regional Product.
Consumer confidence fell in June due to the rising economic uncertainty from the Trump administration’s tariffs. Personal income has dropped by 0.4 percent month-over-month for the first time in nearly four years.
Cross border crossings from Canada have plummeted since Trump implemented his tariff policies. The most recent data shows that there were 400,000 fewer Canadian visitors in May compared to the same period in 2024.
Bridge crossings over the Ogdensburg Bridge and the Champlain crossing in May were down 30 percent during that same time period from last year
April statistics show that border crossings declined nearly 22 percent over the previous year.
In a recent North Country Chamber of Commerce survey, 66 percent of tourism businesses report a drop in Canadian customers and one in four businesses in the region may cut staff as a result.
Large department stores and supermarkets are seeing declines of approximately 20 to 25 percent.
Reservations are down at hotels, campgrounds, local marinas, golf courses and other businesses that rely on visitors from Canada.
Federal Cuts to Health Care
The Governor also warned that the proposed federal budget cuts would strip $13.5 billion from New York’s health care system.
Over 50 percent of Essential Plan funding, exceeding $7.5 billion, would be eliminated, threatening the program’s future.
These provisions will cause an almost $6 billion impact on New York’s Medicaid program, including $2.5 billion in lost federal revenue and $500 million in new state administrative costs. They eliminate crucial funding mechanisms and impose new penalties on states like New York that have expanded health care access.
These cuts, combined with cumbersome new administrative hurdles, would cause almost 1.5 million New Yorkers to lose their health coverage and become uninsured, including 44,000 people in the North Country.
The bill targets Medicaid by imposing stricter work reporting requirements and onerous verification processes, increasing administrative burden and making coverage access more challenging.
These cuts would threaten the survival of rural hospitals and would lead to longer wait times, reduced services and premium hikes for thousands in the region.
These impacts will strain New York’s health care system and trigger far-reaching economic effects. The state anticipates a loss of over $3 billion for hospitals due to increases in uncompensated care and decreased reimbursement alone, with many billions more of impacts likely.
The New York State Department of Health analyzed funding cuts passed by the House of Representatives in the Republican budget reconciliation bill. View the congressional district-by-district breakdown of anticipated funding losses hereand the detailed analysis here
The Republicans also targeted SNAP benefits, threatening the 3 million New Yorkers who rely on them to feed their families. In this district alone, 89,317 people depend on SNAP benefits, with one-third being children.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), overseen by the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) and administered by local departments of social services, helps 1.7 million households and 2.9 million recipients, mostly children, older adults or disabled, afford healthy food. Despite modest benefits averaging $7 per day, SNAP is a vital lifeline for many households. In fact, 14 percent of New York’s population relies on SNAP, making it New York’s most effective tool in combating hunger and food insecurity, core priorities of Governor Hochul’s administration.
SNAP also supports local economies. USDA research shows that investments in SNAP generate $1.54 in economic activity for every dollar spent by recipients, including at grocery stores, farmers markets, and small businesses. In New York alone, $7.4 billion in SNAP benefits annually generate $11.5 billion in economic activity across the State.
Governor Hochul has prioritized increasing access to food for all New Yorkers, supporting several groundbreaking programs that focus on improving access to locally grown foods including through FY26 Enacted Budget, including the 30 Percent NYS Initiative for school meals, the Farm-to School program, the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs, the Urban Farms and Community Gardens Grants Programs, and the Nourish NY program, which helps New York’s network of emergency food providers purchase food from New York farmers to give to families in need.
This year’s Budget also provides $340 million for school meals, a $160 million (89 percent) year-to-year increase, and requires all school districts, charter schools, and nonpublic schools that participate in the national school lunch and breakfast program to provide free breakfast and lunch meals to all students regardless of their families’ income, thereby reducing costs for families and ensuring that no student goes hungry at school. Additionally, the Budget included the third round of funding as part of the Regional School Food Infrastructure Grant Program, which provides $50 million over five years to support regional cooking facilities that will facilitate the use of fresh New York State farm products in meal preparation for K-12 school children.
New Yorkers Encouraged To Try Freshwater Fishing at No Cost
Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that June 28-29 is a free fishing weekend in New York State, encouraging New Yorkers to get offline and get outside to enjoy opportunities for affordable outdoor recreation across the state. During free fishing days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters. The weekend is one of six designated Free Fishing Days that take place each year in New York State.
“There’s no better time for aspiring anglers to try freshwater fishing than a free fishing weekend,” Governor Hochul said. “New York is home to numerous freshwater lakes, ponds, streams and rivers, allowing for memorable fishing experiences for angler experts and novices, as well as friends and family.”
No rod? No problem. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) partners with libraries across the state to provide a fishing rod lending program. Instead of borrowing a book, library patrons can sign out a fishing rod. This affordable program provides an opportunity for people to try fishing before deciding to purchase their own gear. For more information on the program and a list of participating libraries visitDEC’S website.
S.7672A/A.6769A Will Improve State’s Ability To Respond to Threats, Safeguard Critical Infrastructure and Reduce Statewide Cybersecurity Risks
Gov. Hochul News Release of June 27, 2025 – Governor Kathy Hochul today signed into law S.7672A/A.6769A, a pivotal measure aimed at enhancing the cybersecurity and resilience of state and local government networks across New York. First announced in Governor Hochul’s 2025 State of the State, this legislation will improve the State’s ability to respond to threats, safeguard critical infrastructure and reduce statewide cybersecurity risks. Governor Hochul made the announcement today following a meeting with City, County, Town and Village officials from across the State to discuss current security efforts in response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
“My top priority as Governor is the security and safety of all New Yorkers, and with this legislation we’re strengthening our ability to respond to and ultimately prevent cyber threats all across our state,” Governor Hochul said. “As global conflicts escalate and cyber threats evolve, so must our response, and we are taking a whole of government approach in doing so. Requiring timely incident reporting and providing annual cybersecurity training for government employees will build a stronger digital shield for every community across the State and ensure they get the support they need when it matters most.”
The legislation mandates that all municipal corporations and public authorities promptly report cybersecurity incidents and ransom payments to the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES), fortifying the statewide defense against digital threats. Under the new law, municipalities and public authorities are required to report cybersecurity incidents within 72 hours to DHSES and provide notice of payment of a ransom within 24 hours. The legislation also mandates annual cybersecurity awareness training for government employees across New York and sets data protection standards for State-maintained information systems.
Peru, NY, June 26, 2025 – Peru Democrats caucused at 6 tonight at the Peru Town Hall. Patrick McFarland chaired the meeting, sitting in for Marque Moffett, who was unable to attend due to a work commitment. The Democrats nominated and endorsed three individuals for town-elected positions.
The offices and nominees, if any, include;
Town Supervisor – No Nominee
Town Board Position #1 – No Nominee
Town Board Position #2 – Nick Weaver
Town Clerk – Dianne Everett Miller
Highway Superintendent – Chip Blair
Town Justice: Two Democrats, Sarah Mitchell, and current Town Justice Jim Kirby, were nominated. The Democrats voted by secret ballot to endorse Sarah Mitchell as their candidate.
The meeting adjourned at 6:22 p.m.
August 7, 205 – Spelling of Marque Moffett’s name corrected.
Clinton County News Release, June 26, 2025 – Plattsburgh, NY — The Clinton County Legislature is pleased to announce the appointment of Christine G. Peters, Esq. as the next County Administrator. Peters will begin serving as Temporary County Administrator on August 4, 2025, working alongside current County Administrator Michael Zurlo until his retirement in early October. Following this transitional period, she will assume the role permanently for a five-year term.
A lifelong Clinton County resident, Peters currently serves as Commissioner of the Clinton County Department of Social Services, where she has led the agency since 2023. With over two decades of service in county government and a Juris Doctor from Vermont Law and Graduate School, Peters brings a wealth of experience in public administration, legal counsel, fiscal planning, and cross-sector collaboration.
“Christine has dedicated most of her professional life to public service in Clinton County,” said Chairman of the Legislature Mark Henry. “Her deep institutional knowledge, legal expertise, and proven leadership make her an ideal choice to guide the County through the next chapter. We are confident in her ability to lead with transparency, integrity, and a clear vision.”
In her tenure as Commissioner, Peters has managed a $52 million budget, implemented workforce development programs, and spearheaded strategic initiatives focused on efficiency, staff empowerment, and improved community outcomes. Prior to that role, she served in various leadership capacities within the Department of Social Services and as a practicing attorney in both the public and private sectors.
“It is truly an honor to be selected to serve as County Administrator,” said Peters. “As someone who has lived and worked in Clinton County my entire life, I care deeply about our communities. I am committed to working collaboratively with the Legislature, county departments, and our regional partners to build on our momentum and serve our residents with excellence.”
“Christine brings a wealth of institutional knowledge and a true passion for public service,” said outgoing County Administrator Michael Zurlo. “Having worked closely with her over the years, I’m confident that the County is in capable hands as she steps into this role.”
Peters’ appointment reflects the Legislature’s commitment to thoughtful, experienced leadership at the helm of county operations. With a deep understanding of local government and a track record of innovation, she is well-positioned to lead Clinton County into its next phase of growth and service to the community.
While showers and thunderstorms are still expected late Friday night and into Saturday, the track for heaviest rainfall is shifting north. With that, rainfall totals have come down a bit, with a general 1″-2″ inches of rainfall expected through Saturday night. Even with the decreased totals, Some of the storms may
train (multiple storms over the same location) leading to excessive rainfall and the potential for isolated flash flooding.
Includes major projects in Plattsburgh and Watertown
Albany, NY, June 26, 2025 – Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that nearly 3,000 affordable, modern, energy-efficient homes will be created or preserved in communities throughout New York State as a result of $1 billion in housing bonds and subsidies. The latest funding awards help advance the Governor’s commitment to increasing the housing supply and making the State more affordable. The 15 projects receiving funding are part of the Governor’s five-year, $25 billion comprehensive Housing Plan that will create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes across New York State.
“Solving New York’s housing crunch and cutting costs for families hinges on increasing home availability statewide,” Governor Hochul said. “Through these investments, we’re helping produce more affordable, modern, supportive, sustainable housing. This is going to help push costs down, keep our state strong and provide housing opportunities to thousands of New Yorkers.”
$15 million for Beekman Towers in Plattsburgh – Acquisition and rehabilitation of an 11-story building originally built in 1974 that contains 124 affordable apartments set aside for seniors and people with disabilities. Developed by SpringTide Housing.
$44 million for Pine Camp Apartments in Watertown – New construction of a four-story building containing 120 affordable apartments, including 80 with supportive services for veterans, seniors, and individuals experiencing homelessness. Developed by DePaul.
Empire State Development Board Approved the First Tranche of State Funding for Empire AI Beta Supercomputer Launch – Major Milestone in Empire AI’s Mission to Lead Responsible, Scalable AI for the Public Good Beta Will Be 11 Times More Powerful Than Current Capacity,
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the Empire State Development (ESD) Board approved $40 million to launch Empire AI Beta, the second phase of the supercomputer powering New York’s nation-leading Empire AI initiative. Empire AI Beta will be 11 times more powerful than current capacity, allowing hundreds of researchers from the now 10 member institutions to continue to advance AI research for public good. Empire AI is now backed by over $500 million in public and private funding, including up to $340 million in state capital funding secured by Governor Hochul.
“With Empire AI, New York is leading in emerging technology and ensuring the power of AI is harnessed for public good and developed right here in this great state,” Governor Hochul said. “The launch of Beta will supercharge our efforts to advance responsible AI development by some of our brightest minds at research institutions focused on purpose, not profit.”Read more »
Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay Lake) presented a $50,000 check to the organizers of the North Country Honor Flight at an event Thursday afternoon. The funds will help cover flight and travel expenses for local veterans to visit the Arlington National Cemetery and other veterans memorials in Washington, D.C..
“The North Country Honor Flight is an incredible organization that I am extremely proud to be able to support each and every year,” Assemblyman Jones said. “Showing support to our local heroes in such an incredible way, by sending them to our nation’s capital to be recognized for their service and dedication to our country, is an amazing opportunity and a great showing of our community’s appreciation of our local veterans.”
We reached a bunch of records in the previous heat event, with the most notable one being Plattsburgh tying its all time highest temperature of 101 degrees
June 25, 2025 Assemblyman Billy Jones News Release – Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay Lake) was joined by New York State Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie at the future site of the Plattsburgh YMCA on Tuesday morning. Jones announced that $4.5 million would be put toward the project’s completion during the visit.
“The Plattsburgh YMCA is a community project that we all want to see complete,” Jones said during a press conference. “Constructing this new state-of-the-art facility and renovating the location’s pool are much-needed upgrades that will allow our community to have more recreational opportunities for our community. Many of our hardworking families in the North Country continue to struggle to find child-friendly recreational opportunities, but the YMCA remains a critical resource for accessible after-school care and year-round offerings. From children to seniors, the new YMCA facility will be able to provide countless educational and recreational opportunities for all residents of the area. By investing in their growth, we can ensure that the YMCA has all the tools they need to continue providing for our community.”
“The YMCA provides critical access to recreational, community programming, and childcare for families all across our state,” Speaker Heastie said. “Expanding the opportunities they have to continue providing such an incredible service to this community is a must, and I’m honored to be able to visit the future site of this exciting development.”
Justin Ihne, the CEO of the Plattsburgh YMCA, accompanied the pair alongside multiple community organizations and individual donors.
“This is not just about building a building, it’s about building a community resource,” Ihne said.
Upon the completion of the project, the YMCA building will expand to total nearly 50,000 square feet: Adding a second floor that will house a new fitness center, completing the necessary renovations to the pool area, and creating new classrooms and community learning spaces. Upon its completion, community members of all ages will be able to partake in various learning opportunities, including kitchen safety and cooking courses, swimming lessons, water safety courses, and more.
“I can’t thank the YMCA’s community partners enough,” Jones said. “Every business, organization, and individual that has donated, I would like to take a moment to recognize and appreciate their generosity and dedication to improving the lives of our community and children.”
Construction is expected to begin later this year.
June 23, 2025, Peru Town Board Meeting – Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell reported electric line relocation issues related to the closed Telegraph Road culvert/bridge that could delay the project. The large crane required to installthe heavy box culvert needs a wide-clearance space, resulting in the relocation of power poles. Thus far, neither of the two nearby property owners has agreed to grant an easement for the poles. Mike Farrell will look into burying the power lines or temporarily relocating the poles. The discussion takes place between the 26 and 33 minute marks of the meeting video.
Farrell is collaborating with the town’s supervising engineering firm, Engineering Ventures, to prioritize the replacement of the culverts on Telegraph Road, Lyons Road, and Westcott Road. Farrell said his priorities are Fuller Road and Lyons Road. Farrell said Engineeriug Ventures has many projects on its work schedule.
The Highway Department repaired Telegraph Road shoulders. Paving will begin when Noel J. Burnell Paving is ready to go. Burnell is handling all the town’s paving due to persistent maintenance and parts availability issues with the town paver.
Town Historian Helen Nerska conducted a “History Chat” with members of the Peru High School Class of ’57 on June 23. She will conduct a Peru Walking tour on Saturday, June 28.
The Board:
Authorized signing a real estate sales contract with ReMax Realty for the sale of the town’s tennis court property at 7 Jenkins Street for $60,000.
Approved the August 9, 2025, use of Heyworth Mason Park for a fundraiser to benefit the North Country Honor Flight. The organizer, Amanda Garner, said she hopes to have 40 to 50 vendors, a classic car show, and two food trucks on site. The board emphasized that she must comply with all health department, waste disposal, insurance, and parking requirements and work closely with the town. Because the event will benefit the Honor Flight, the board will refund the rental fee if the user leaves the park in good condition.
Approved Adirondack Regional Theater’s application to use Heyworth Mason Park on August 8, 2025. Shakespeare’s Mid-Summer Night’s Dream is on the program.
Accepted with regret and appreciation Richard Williams’s resignation as Chairman and member of the Peru Planning Board. Williams served on the board for about 24 years, with about fifteen years as Chairman.
Appointed Justin Wilson as the new Planning Board Chairman for the remainder of Richard William’s term of office.
Appointed Allison Webbinaro as Planning Board Vice-Chairman to complete Justin Wilson’s term as Vice-Chairman.
Approved an agreement with Fiscal Advisors’ Financial Services to oversee the financing of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvement Project (WWTP).
Approved Credit Order Change #1 on the WWIP. Because the contractor is using a smaller pipe, the price declined by $22,015.
June 25, 2025, North Country Chamber of Commerce – Border crossing numbers from Canada at our Champlain Port of Entry were down 31% in May compared to 2024. This compares to a 31% figure for March and 26% in April, likely attributable to the Easter holiday falling in April this year.
It remains important that we recognize that a 31% decline still means a 69% continuation, reinforcing the importance of heightened hospitality for our Canadian visitors. All businesses are encouraged to visit our website at www.northcountrychamber.com to access tools and suggestions. And to let us know of “specials” you are able to offer to attract and thank our Canadian customers this summer.
The Chamber also continues to message actively, both privately and through bi-national media, to help to address feelings and to highlight tariff and other impacts.
June 24, 2025 – Gov. Hochul News Release – On the third anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Dobbs ruling, which ended the constitutional right to an abortion in the United States, Governor Kathy Hochul announced more than $24 million in State grants made to organizations in New York State to fund abortion health care services under the New York State Abortion Access Program. The Program provides financial support to health care providers across New York State ensuring that patients can access safe and supportive abortion services within their communities.
“Abortion is health care and I will always fight to protect reproductive rights for all New Yorkers and anyone receiving health care in New York,” Governor Hochul said. “As we face anti-choice extremists in leadership who aim to roll back these hard fought for rights, we will always fight to ensure access to reproductive care is protected here in New York and ensure that this state remains a safe harbor for those in need of abortion care.”
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “This funding is critical for clinics across the state to continue offering abortion care and to expand the range of reproductive health services they provide. As other states strip away protections, New York’s commitment to reproductive freedom has never been more important. Thanks to the leadership of Governor Hochul, we will continue ensuring abortion care is affordable, available, and accessible to anyone who needs it.”
Since taking office Governor Hochul has taken significant steps to expand access to reproductive health care in New York and nationwide. Key actions include:
Dedicating hundreds of millions of dollars in funding to support abortion providers and reproductive healthcare statewide, with additional funding in the FY26 Enacted Budget to help providers adapt to current challenges. This includes additional funding for medication abortions and for capital investments that will enable renovations, equipment upgrades, planning and construction to help facilities modernize and secure their operations.
Codifying abortion as protected emergency medical care in New York State and requiring hospitals to provide this care, reinforcing access to abortion services when medically necessary.
Earlier this year, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation to strengthen New York’s shield law that protects abortion providers from out-of-state prosecution, allowing medical providers to include only the address of the dispensing health care practice on the prescription label instead of the name of the provider or practice and requires pharmacies to abide by a prescriber’s request to remove their name from the prescription label. This legislation built on a law signed by Governor Hochul in January, days after Louisiana officials attempted to extradite a New York-based doctor who prescribed FDA-approved abortion medication through telehealth.
Governor Hochul has also signed additional pieces of legislation to bolster reproductive rights across the State, which include:
Landmark legislation (S.1066B/A.1709B) to enhance access to reproductive health care and protect patients and doctors providing abortion care via telehealth, allowing services to patients outside New York without fear of litigation in restrictive states.
Laws (A1060-A/S1043-A) to make hormonal contraception available over the counter, aiding marginalized populations and (A1395-C/S1213-B) ensuring medication abortion access for SUNY and CUNY college students.
In November 2024, voters approved Proposition One, an amendment to the New York Constitution that protects abortion rights and access to reproductive health care. The approved amendment establishes constitutional protections against discrimination based on ethnicity, national origin, age, disability and sex — including sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy and pregnancy outcomes and reproductive health care and autonomy. These protections are in addition to explicit protections against racial and religious discrimination that were already included in New York’s Constitution. The amendment went into effect on January 1, 2025.
Abortion access remains safe and accessible for New Yorkers and for those coming from outside of New York State. Medication abortion and in-clinic abortion is also protected in New York. Abortions are legal up to and including 24 weeks of pregnancy. After 24 weeks, individuals can still get an abortion if their health or pregnancy is at risk. Learn more about abortion in New York State by visiting the Know Your Rights website.
Peru, NY, June 26, 2025 – Peru Democrats caucused at 6 tonight at the Peru Town Hall. 
While showers and thunderstorms are still expected late Friday night and into Saturday, the track for heaviest rainfall is shifting north. With that, rainfall totals have come down a bit, with a general 1″-2″ inches of rainfall expected through Saturday night. Even with the decreased totals, Some of the storms may
Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay Lake) presented a $50,000 check to the organizers of the North Country Honor Flight at an event Thursday afternoon. The funds will help cover flight and travel expenses for local veterans to visit the Arlington National Cemetery and other veterans memorials in Washington, D.C..
June 25, 2025 Assemblyman Billy Jones News Release – Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay Lake) was joined by New York State Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie at the future site of the Plattsburgh YMCA on Tuesday morning. Jones announced that $4.5 million would be put toward the project’s completion during the visit.
June 25, 2025, North Country Chamber of Commerce – Border crossing numbers from Canada at our Champlain Port of Entry were down 31% in May compared to 2024. This compares to a 31% figure for March and 26% in April, likely attributable to the Easter holiday falling in April this year.