Federal funds to reduce capital burden on county
The county could save $500,000 through stimulus funds and federal and state aid if County Executive Robert Astorino”™s amendment proposal to a nearly $6 million capital improvement plan for bus stops is passed.
Some $4.6 million of the project”™s total cost is slated to be paid for by the federal government. If Astorino”™s proposal is approved, the county would pay $140,000 in cash and $400,000 in bonds for the project.
The plan will include improvements to the White Plains Bus Terminal and an assessment by the Department of Public Works and Transportation for paving, lighting and accessibility options at countywide bus stops.
Bill enhances job security for vets
A veterans”™ protection bill authored by Assemblyman Robert Castelli, R-Goldens Bridge, is awaiting Senate approval after being introduced by Sen. Greg Ball, R- Patterson, chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs.
The legislation would prohibit government agencies from laying off employees absent on military leave and tour of duty.
The bill mandates compliance with the Federal Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 and adds an anti-discrimination clause to the civil service law.
Senate approves executive nominations
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced unanimous state Senate confirmation for the following executive leadership positions. Julie Shimer, president and CEO of Welch Allyn in Skaneateles Falls, was named chairman of Empire State Development Corp. Prior to joining Welch Allyn, Shimer was president and CEO of Vocera Communications, a wireless communications company in Cupertino, Calif.
Howard Milstein, president and CEO of New York Private Bank & Trust and its operating bank, Emigrant Bank, was named chairman of The New York State Thruway Authority.
