Issues: Cities

The NYS Department of Financial Services (DFS) is setting new rules to speed the processing of insurance claims in areas affected by Storm Sandy. The new regulation reduces the amount of time an insurer can delay its decision on a claim, and requires insurers to report to the Department on how many claims it is delaying and the reasons for the delays.

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo unveiled the proposed 2013-14Executive Budget and Management Plan that builds on two years of balanced, fiscally responsible budgeting and invests in economic development, education reform, rebuilding after Superstorm Sandy, provides support to local governments and school districts, and includes no new taxes or fees.

Highlights of the Executive Budget:

· Eliminates $1.3 billion budget gap with no new taxes or fees. The expected gap for 2013-14 was projected to be $17.4 billion prior to the last two responsible budgets.

· Holds spending increases below 2 percent for third consecutive year.

Jefferson Thornton Presented with Prestigious Liberty Medal

State Senator Patty Ritchie honored Ogdensburg resident Jefferson Thornton Monday night for his rescue of a mother and her two young children from a house fire earlier this month.

Thornton, a former city firefighter, was awarded the prestigious Liberty Medal at Monday night’s City Council meeting, where he was also recognized by the City of Ogdensburg. 

State Senator Patty Ritchie recently stopped in to welcome newly appointed Ogdensburg City Manager John Pinkerton to City Hall.

Squadron-Gottfried Legislation Created Task Force to Avoid Tragedies Like Deutsche Bank Fire; Now as Council Holds Hearing, Recommendations Must be Acted On

Squadron, Gottfried: Every Day We Don't Act Means Another Day Lives May Be at Risk

NEW YORK -- State Senator Daniel Squadron, Assemblyman Richard Gottfried and firefighters urged immediate action to close major gaps in the fire and safety codes at hundreds of State-owned buildings around New York City, today outside the scene of the tragic Deutsche Bank fire. 

“This is excellent news for Syracuse and Onondaga County. The creation of the Greater Syracuse Property Development Corporation will give us another tool in our arsenal to revitalize our neighborhoods, increase the tax base and spur economic development with the ultimate goal of strengthening the Central New York economy.