Seward Announces Local Senate Awards

At the Cortland Downtown Partnership, State Senator James L. Seward today announced senate funding for the Partnership's business development program and other senate funding for initiatives of local interest to Cortland County.

Seward said the Partnership's business development program would receive $25,000 in senate funds to help develop and enact a plan to strengthen the economy of downtown Cortland and foster the creation of new jobs. Senate funds will pay for marketing materials and programs, technical assistance and education, an interactive web site, market research and promotion efforts. The program is expected to cost $32,000.

"Cortland is making an effort to get behind its downtown, build it, grow local businesses there, and foster an improving economic climate," Senator Seward said. "The senate funding will provide a jump start for the Partnership's efforts and its innovative program to make downtown a bustling hub of entrepreneurial activity."

Seward also announced other senate initiatives:
AGENCY PROGRAM AMOUNT

Town of Cincinnatus Water district vehicle $ 15,000
Cort. Co. Child Devel. Program Day care scholarship20,000
Cort. Co. Commnity Action Program Physical plant improvements 45,000
Cortland Volunteer Fire Dept. Radio and computer equipment 9,000
Village of Homer Fire Dept. Thermal imaging camera 14,000
J.M. Murray Center Equipment 75,000
Marathon Area Historical Society Restoration of 1861 building 15,000
SUNY Cortland ADA accessibility upgrades 50,000
YWCA of Cortland Child care programs 25,000

"The senate funding helps local programs and meets locally identified community needs that would not be possible without state assistance," Senator Seward said. "When it comes to local governments and fire departments in particular, the senate aid reduces pressure on tax rates and tight budgets, especially in rural areas."

Seward said the money was included in the current state budget.

"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.

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