Seward Announces Local Budget Awards

Senator James L. Seward today announced that the 2007-2008 state budget includes, at his request, senate funding of initiatives of local interest to Herkimer County.

AGENCY PROGRAM AMOUNT

Millers Mills Grange #581 Building program/land acquisition $15,000

Valley United Way Administrative expenses$5,000

Van Hornesville FD Operating expenses$2,500

"The senate funding helps local programs and meets locally identified community needs that would not be possible without state assistance," Senator Seward said. "The Millers Mills Grange has been a focus of the community since 1889 and it hosts a number of organizations and events each year. Granges are important to rural areas in particular. "

Seward said the money is intended to help provide electrical, plumbing and heating improvements for the building.

The $5,000 grant for the United Way is intended to help fund legal and transitional costs for its merger with the United Way of the Greater Utica Area. The Van Hornesville grant will help make fulfill a tax obligation caused by the receipt of property by the county.

"The programs identified as eligible for the awards improve the quality of life of many people in specific ways. I am glad that the senate could assist," Seward concluded.