Sometimes heroes are easily identifiable, like our emergency responders and soldiers. Other times, it’s more difficult to see heroic qualities in those around us, but after some reflection there are, in fact, everyday heroes just around the corner at your local mom-and-pop shops.
Just recently, America celebrated National Small Business Week. There is plenty to celebrate when it comes to our small-business owners. Continue reading
Assemblyman Marc W. Butler (R,C,I-Newport) recently joined representatives from various organizations who came to Albany to advocate for preservation of the Adirondack Park and the region, and its accessible streams, trails and hunting grounds.
Many subjects, from wildlife preservation, to tourism, to economic development and health were discussed at the educational event.
Assemblyman Marc W. Butler speaks with Conner John Schmidt, an intern from the Adirondack Wildlife Rehabilitation and Refuge Center, who is handling a North American Barn Owl, one of the many species found in the region. Courtesy photo
“There is an abundance of natural wonder to marvel at in our Adirondack Park, and we are so fortunate for the ways in which it has shaped our communities,” said Butler.
Additionally, the Adirondacks support numerous small businesses that range in scope from food and beverage services to wood, paper and fiber products. Continue reading
Our state and region have had a tough few years facing mounting challenges, the economic downturn and flooding in the Mohawk Valley.
It hasn’t been easy, and we’ve had to rely on each other to help us through.
Throughout the budget negotiations, I focused on what would help our region recover and grow stronger.
Naturally, there were parts of the budget that I rejected, like the portion that would fund a database to further infringe on law-abiding gun owner rights… Continue reading
Over the past few months, you may have heard about Governor Cuomo’s property tax freeze plan. While I don’t dispute that property taxes continue to be a major problem in upstate New York, I believe the governor’s proposal is disingenuous and will not lead to any significant property tax savings for New Yorkers.
The savings from Gov. Cuomo’s property tax freeze plan would be negligible, full of caveats for localities such as forced consolidation, which if not accomplished will have negative financial implications for counties and communities.
Additionally, it does not address the largest cost driver for our local governments—unfunded mandates. Continue reading
The Board of Regents, a 230-year-old institution, makes decisions that impact our schools and students in profound ways.
The board selects the commissioner of education and sets policy, including unfunded mandates, which the State Education Department carries out.
If you’ve been following my columns, you are aware of the concerns people have about our educational system.
The Common Core Standards were rushed through, and when the board’s hand-selected education commissioner was faced with criticism, he cancelled public meetings on the subject.
Considering the important role the Board of Regents plays in our state, New Yorkers deserve an open and transparent process by which members of the board are selected. Continue reading
Assemblyman Marc W. Butler (R,C,I-Newport) announced Thursday that Nancy Martin of Waddington has joined his staff as his St. Lawrence County and North Country representative.
Martin will represent the assemblyman at local meetings and events, help arrange scheduling, handle constituent issues and advise Butler on the many issues facing the county. Continue reading
Recently, the governor outlined a tax relief plan that centered on freezing property taxes, but only if municipalities could adhere to a two-percent property tax cap in the first year, and implement a push for local government consolidation in the second year.
That’s a tall order for local governments that are already struggling to balance budgets and continue providing services to residents.
The governor is asking a lot without providing a key tool to our communities—state unfunded mandate relief. Continue reading