NEW ORGANIZATIONAL PLAN FOR LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEES WILL IMPROVE EFFICIENCY AND TRANSPARENCY, WITH ANNOUNCEMENT MADE BY COUNTY EXECUTIVE STEVE MCLAUGHLIN AND LEGISLATIVE CHAIRWOMAN KELLY HOFFMAN

A new organizational plan for committee meetings of the Rensselaer County Legislature and participation by county department heads will improve transparency and efficiency, County Executive Steve McLaughlin and Chairwoman of the Legislature Kelly Hoffman announced today.

The agreement will also strengthen the working relationship in all areas of county government and ensure county services are delivered at the most affordable means possible.

Department heads will be available on request to attend assigned committees following the filing of pertinent legislation at the assigned committee. Leaders of the legislative committees are asked to inform department heads prior to each meeting if additional materials or supporting information is needed.

To reduce redundancy and ensure efficiency, department heads will not be required to attend the Budget & Finance and Rules committee.

“Rensselaer County is viewed as a state leader, with reductions in the county property tax rate of 49 percent, the paving of all 330 miles in the county road network, modernization of county facilities and record investment and job creation in our county. Great things are underway in 2026 with the start of a landmark project to improve our outstanding Van Rensselaer Manor nursing and rehabilitation facility, completion of three new satellite highway garages, new Board of Elections office and projects to improve recreational and quality of life,” said McLaughlin.

“This new organizational plan will help keep that important work on track but avoid unnecessary delays for already busy department heads. We look forward to continuing a productive and positive working relationship with the County Legislature,” added McLaughlin.

“This marks a positive step forward in collaboration and open governance, as the County Legislature and County Executive have reached a mutual agreement to have department heads return to committee meetings. This renewed commitment to communication and transparency strengthens our decision-making process and better serve our community,” said Chairwoman Hoffman.

It is envisioned the new organizational plan for committee meetings will go into effect for the committee meetings for the April meeting of the County Legislature.