Gov. Hochul announces $8M to 21 projects aimed at cutting costs and improving efficiency

New York (WRGB) — Governor Hochul announced $8 million in grants for 21 projects designed to improve efficiency and lower costs for local governments across New York State.

The funding, awarded through the New York State Department of State’s Local Government Efficiency Grant (LGEG) Program, supports municipalities that collaborate to share services, reduce costs, and create long-term savings for taxpayers.

Governor Hochul said,

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, These municipalities are joining forces, looking at opportunities to lower costs and ultimately save taxpayers money. We will continue to support measures that result in streamlined services.

The LGEG Program provides both planning and implementation grants — offering up to $20,000 for planning projects and $250,000 for implementation. The program encourages shared services and consolidation efforts that make government operations more cost-effective and sustainable.

New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley praised the program’s impact, saying,

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.Regional Awards

Funding was awarded to local governments across every region of New York, including:

Capital Region:Town of Hunter – $1,250,000Town of Petersburgh – $358,107Warren County – $422,668Central New York:Cazenovia Central School District – $40,000Madison County – $20,850Finger Lakes Region:Village of Avon – $500,000Village of Brockport – $476,619Livingston County Water and Sewer Authority – $642,150Wyoming County Planning and Development – $75,000Mid-Hudson RegionTown of Carmel – $1,200,000Town of Liberty – $21,675Livingston Manor Central School District – $450,000Village of Rye Brook – $25,000Ulster County – $40,000Mohawk Valley:Village of Fonda – $50,000North Country:Village of Copenhagen – $682,418Lewis County – $1,053,070Southern Tier:Village of Montour Falls – $32,120Southern Tier Central Regional Planning & Development Board – $20,000Tompkins County – $324,000Western New York:Town of Evans – $316,323Local Leaders React:

State and local officials praised the program for helping municipalities save money and modernize operations.

Assemblymember Michaelle Solages said,

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.

New York State Association of Counties President Phil Church 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, Executive Director of the New York State Conference of Mayors, said,

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.

New York Association of Towns Executive Director Christopher A. Koetzle said,

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.Program Details:

Projects were evaluated based on potential return on investment, operational impact, readiness, and service delivery improvements. Priority scoring was given to projects focusing on:

Information technology and cybersecurityEmergency management servicesCode enforcement and planningWater and wastewater managementClimate change initiatives

According to the release, since its creation, the LGEG program has awarded more than $121 million across 655 projects statewide, generating an estimated $684 million in long-term savings for local governments.

A new round of applications for the program is expected to open in the coming weeks.

For more information, visit dos.ny.gov or contact localgov@dos.ny.gov / 518-473-3355.