State Assemblymember Matthew Simpson discusses his background and role in representing the Adirondacks. He emphasizes his love for the region and his commitment to public service, highlights the unique challenges of the Adirondack Park, which includes 6 million acres, with 3 million protected state lands and 3 million privately owned, housing a population of 130,000.

Simpson stresses the need for environmental protection, infrastructure improvements, and affordable housing to sustain the community, notes the region’s economic challenges, particularly in public infrastructure and housing costs, and mentions the governor’s proposed plan to address these issues, ensuring it meets the specific needs of the Adirondacks.

You can watch the full interview above. And be sure to tune in for a look inside the biggest issues impacting upstate New York, on In Focus with JoDee Kenney — every Sunday on Spectrum News 1.