Governor Kathy Hochul announced that $8 million in grants will be distributed to 21 projects aimed at improving efficiency and reducing costs for local governments across New York State. The funding comes from the Local Government Efficiency Grant (LGEG) Program, which is managed by the New York State Department of State. This program encourages municipalities to collaborate on initiatives such as consolidations, shared services, and internal efficiencies.
“We are constantly working with our local government partners to make New York State a more affordable place to live, do business and raise a family, and many of our local governments are looking to do the same,” Governor Hochul said. “These municipalities are joining forces, looking at opportunities to lower costs and ultimately save taxpayers money. We will continue to work together and support measures that result in streamlined services.”
Walter T. Mosley, Secretary of State for New York, stated: “The LGEG program provides an excellent return-on-investment for New York State as it encourages municipalities to problem solve together to bolster services and amplify savings. Under the Governor’s leadership, this new round of funding will help local governments address both current and emerging challenges, to accomplish what ultimately matters the most: effective municipal services and tax savings for residents.”
The LGEG Program offers both planning grants—up to $20,000 per municipality—and implementation grants—up to $250,000 per municipality—as outlined in the 2024-25 budget modifications.
Projects receiving awards span several regions of the state. For example:
– In the Capital Region: Town of Hunter ($1,250,000), Town of Petersburgh ($358,107), Warren County ($422,668)
– Central New York: Cazenovia Central School District ($40,000), Madison County ($20,850)
– Finger Lakes Region: Village of Avon ($500,000), Village of Brockport ($476,619), Livingston County Water and Sewer Authority ($642,150), Wyoming County Planning and Development ($75,000)
– Mid-Hudson Region: Town of Carmel ($1,200,000), Town of Liberty ($21,675), Livingston Manor Central School District/Rockland CSD ($450,000), Village of Rye Brook ($25,000), Ulster County ($40,000)
– Mohawk Valley Region: Village of Fonda ($50,000)
– North Country Region: Village of Copenhagen ($682,418), Lewis County ($1,053,070)
– Southern Tier Region: Village of Montour Falls ($32,120), Southern Tier Central Regional Planning and Development Board ($20,000), Tompkins County ($324,000)
– Western New York Region: Town of Evans ($316,323)
Assemblymember Michaelle Solages commented on the impact these grants have on service delivery by stating: “Local governments are on the frontlines of service delivery, and their ability to work efficiently is key to strengthening our communities. These Local Government Efficiency Grants help municipalities collaborate, modernize operations, and reduce costs for taxpayers. I applaud Governor Hochul and the Department of State for supporting innovative partnerships that make government work better for the people of New York.”
Phil Church from the New York State Association of Counties said: “Counties across New York are constantly seeking ways to improve efficiency and these grant awards are a powerful tool for empowering local governments to collaborate, innovate, and deliver essential services more effectively. Investments like these strengthen our communities, help drive long-term savings, and support the critical work of our local leaders across the state.”
Barbara Van Epps from the New York State Conference of Mayors noted: “NYCOM appreciates the Department of State’s continued commitment to the Local Government Efficiency Grant Program. This funding helps our members advance shared service initiatives that reduce costs streamline operations and enhance the delivery of services to their residents. Furthermore these projects demonstrate the power of collaboration in building stronger more sustainable communities throughout New York State.”
Christopher A. Koetzle from the New York Association of Towns added: “The New York Association of Towns would like to thank the Department of State for this generous round of the Local Government Efficiency Grant (LGEG) Program. State support via financial assistance often is the critical element in executing local projects. While towns annually generate nearly $200 million in revenue through shared services; The LGEG’s grant reimbursement program encourages new efficiencies NYAOT looks forward to working with the Department to continue to support towns and their residents.”
Applications were assessed based on criteria such as potential return on investment (ROI), project need service benefits operational changes capacity readiness within five years comprehensiveness specificity work plan budget Priority was given if applications included target functions like information technology/cybersecurity emergency management code enforcement/planning water/wastewater management climate change or built upon previous planning efforts or countywide plans All awards are reimbursement-based
Since its inception DOS has awarded 655 projects totaling over $121 million through its efficiency programs resulting in estimated long-term savings exceeding $684 million for recipients
Eligible applicants include counties cities towns villages special improvement districts fire districts public libraries library systems water/sewer authorities regional boards school districts BOCES among others
Grants can be used for expenses such as legal/consultant fees capital improvements equipment or transitional personnel costs up to three years
A new request for applications is expected soon For more information contact [email protected] or call 518-473-3355.
