Zim Smith Trail

Saratoga County Career Center Announces June Virtual Workshops Schedule

Free Career Workshops Provided by the Greater Capital Region Career Centers

May 31, 2024

BALLSTON SPA, NY — The Saratoga County Career Center in conjunction with the Greater Capital Region Career Centers will hold the following free virtual career workshops during June:

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June 5 at 10AM: Resume Development – This workshop presents the basics of a powerful and effective cover letter including formatting, tailoring to the job, and getting through the online application process to land an interview. Please have a rough draft of your resume with you. Facilitated by Rensselaer & Columbia-Greene.

June 6 at 11AM: Transferable Skills – Transferable skills are qualities you have already acquired which can be used in a different job. Make it easy for employers to see the connection between your qualities and the skillset needed to do the job and market yourself as the solution to an employer’s problem. Learn ways to research the employer’s needs then identify and show them that you have these skills. Facilitated by Warren and Washington.

June 11 at 10:30AM: Interview Preparation – Learn how to articulate your strengths, what questions to expect, how to address difficult topics, and ace the interviewing process. Facilitated by Schenectady.

June 12 at 10AM: Goal Setting – Goals are what take us forward in life. They are the first step in every journey we take. In this workshop we will explain how goal setting works, why goals are important, and take home more helpful resources to get you started. Remember: “if you aim for nothing, you’ll hit it every time.” Find out how to reach your dreams. Facilitated by Washington and Albany.

June 20 at 11AM: Completing Job Applications – Statistics show approximately 50% of mid-sized companies and almost all large corporations use an applicant tracking system to screen candidates for job opportunities. Learn how to prepare your online application to get the most visibility from hiring managers. Facilitated by Warren and Washington.

June 21 at 10:30AM: Networking – Networking is your strategic tool for cultivating lasting relationships, fostering professional growth, and unlocking opportunities. Join us for an approachable journey to understanding networking. Facilitated by Warren and Albany.

June 25 at 11AM: Overcoming Barriers – Join an informal discussion about how to overcome potential stumbling blocks to finding a job. Whether you’re facing transportation needs, childcare needs, prior justice system involvement, inexperience, health concerns or more, this workshop will provide you with resources and strategies to help you meet your goals. Facilitated by Fulton-Montgomery-Schoharie.

June 25 at 1:30PM: Social Media – Your social media presence can make or break your ability to find a job. Learn how to use social media to your advantage in searching for a job and marketing yourself to land the job or career you’ve always wanted. Facilitated by Schenectady.

Registration is required for all workshops. Visit https://thejoblink.org/calendar/ to register or call the Saratoga County Career Center at (518) 884-4170 for more information. The workshops are offered as part of the Saratoga County Career Center’s WorkPays! workforce education campaign.

The Saratoga County Department of Workforce Development provides comprehensive training and employment services to residents through its Career Center and works with local businesses to attract and retain the local workforce.

The Greater Capital Region Career Centers is a group of local county and city-based Career Centers and partners that coordinate services to address the workforce needs of the Greater Capital Region by providing a variety of career and workforce resources, training opportunities, and more. Members include Capital Region Workforce New York; Columbia-Green Workforce NY; City of Albany Career Center; L.E.A.P; Rensselaer County Career Center; Saratoga County Career Center; Schenectady County Connects; Warren County Career Center; Workforce Solutions System of Fulton, Montgomery, Schoharie Counties.

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Zim Smith Trail

Saratoga County Officials Celebrate Retiring County Fire Coordinator at Walkout Ceremony

May 30, 2024

BALLSTON SPA, NY — Saratoga County officials today held a “walkout” ceremony to honor long-time Saratoga County Fire Coordinator Ed Tremblay, who retired after 29 years of dedicated service to the County.

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Edward Tremblay was appointed Saratoga County Fire Coordinator in 1995. During his 29 years with Saratoga County, he coordinated innumerable firefighter classes and fire investigations and oversaw the deployment of County based assets to multiple major disasters.

Ed established the County HazMat Team in 1999 and facilitated construction of a new burn building at the Fire Training Center in 2001 and its replacement, which is scheduled for construction in 2025. Coordinator Tremblay served in multiple major incidents including the 1998 tornado, annual ice storms, blizzards, and both Superstorm and Hurricane Sandy.

He chaired the Volunteer Chiefs Committee for the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs and was president of the State Fire Coordinators Association from 2017-2020. Ed is a life member of the West Crescent Fire Department, previously serving as chief for six years.
Board of Supervisors Chairman Phil Barrett (Clifton Park) presented Ed with a proclamation at the May Board Meeting to honor and commend him for his 29 years of faithful County service.

Chairman Barrett said, “On behalf of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, I offer our deep gratitude to Ed for his loyalty, dedication, and hard work over the past 29 years. As Saratoga County Fire Coordinator, he has had a positive impact on Saratoga County government and on the lives of Saratoga County residents. We wish Ed the best in his retirement.”

Saratoga County Sheriff Michael H. Zurlo said, “As the county’s Fire Coordinator, Ed has been a dedicated and integral member of our team, providing training opportunities for volunteer firefighters and responding to major weather events throughout the county for nearly three decades. On behalf of the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, I wish Ed well in his retirement.”

Saratoga County Director of Emergency Management, Andre. M. Delvaux said, “After 29 years of unwavering dedication, Ed Tremblay is stepping down as Saratoga County Fire Coordinator. The Office of Emergency Management extends its heartfelt gratitude for Ed’s tireless service in safeguarding our communities. His leadership and commitment have been instrumental in ensuring the well-being of our firefighters and the residents they protect. We wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement!”

The ceremony was attended by several Saratoga County employees including members of the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, Office of Emergency Management, local elected officials including members of the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, Senator James Tedisco, and representatives from Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh’s office, volunteer fire and EMS agencies from throughout the county, New York State Police and the New Yorks State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.

The Saratoga County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is a multi-disciplined agency responsible for coordinating the County’s response to natural disasters, weather emergencies, and other large-scale events. The OEM works collaboratively with local municipalities, state and federal agencies, and private sector partners to ensure the safety and well-being of Saratoga County residents.

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Zim Smith Trail

Saratoga County Animal Shelter to Hold Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic

May 24, 2024

BALLSTON SPA, NY – The Saratoga County Animal Shelter will hold a free rabies vaccination clinic on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, from 5:30PM to 7:30PM at the 4-H Training Center in Ballston Spa. Pet owners can have their cats, ferrets, and dogs vaccinated during the designated times listed for each animal. Time schedules are strictly enforced for the safety of all animals. All animals must be contained with a proper restraint device as described below and must be at least three months old.

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Rabies Clinic Information:

Date: Tuesday, May 28, 2024

Location: 4-H Training Center, 556 Middleline Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020

Times & Requirements:
Cats: 5:30-6:30 PM Must be in a carrier
Ferrets: 5:30-6:30 PM Must be in a cage or carrier
Dogs: 6:30-7:30 PM Must be on a leash
Animals must be at least three months old

Cost: Free, however monetary donations are accepted

All vaccination certificates are written for one year unless prior proof of vaccination is provided. Owners must bring proof of prior vaccine to receive a three-year certificate for their animal.

For more information, please call the Saratoga County Animal Shelter at 518-885-4113 or visit www.saratogacountyanimalshelter.com.

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Zim Smith Trail

Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Pass Resolution to Install Crosswalk at Busy Intersection Near Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Schools

May 24, 2024

TOWN OF BALLSTON – The Saratoga County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, approved funding to install a crosswalk at the intersection of Kingsley Road and Lakehill Road in the Town of Ballston.

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Located in the Town of Ballston, the intersection is frequented by many Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake students. The resolution authorizes Saratoga County DPW to contract with DLC Electric LLC for construction services associated with this crosswalk project connecting the only county-owned sidewalk with a town-owned sidewalk.

Saratoga County Department of Public Works (DPW) will administer this project in partnership with the Town of Ballston. The Town of Ballston will pay $114,000 and the County will contribute $31,518 for the entire project.

Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman Phil Barrett (Clifton Park) said, “The safety of our residents is of the upmost importance to my colleagues and I at the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors. We proudly passed this resolution to improve pedestrian safety for the students of Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Central Schools and the residents of the Town of Ballston who use this busy sidewalk. Installing this crosswalk not only helps to ensure safe streets for all users, but also helps to promote more walkable, healthier lifestyles for residents of all ages.”

Town of Ballston Supervisor Eric Connolly said, “On behalf of the Town of Ballston, I thank my colleagues at the County Board of Supervisors for their commitment to pedestrian safety. The intersection at Kingsley Road and Lakehill Road is highly trafficked by vehicles and pedestrians each day, especially by our students who walk to and from school. The new crosswalk and signal will make this area more accessible and safer for our students and residents alike.”

Superintendent of Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Central Schools Patrick M. McGrath, Jr., Ph.D., said, “Addressing the intersection of Lakehill and Kingsley with a crosswalk and signals is a great step forward for safe pedestrian access in the hamlet of Burnt Hills. Anyone trying to turn at this intersection recognizes that it has an awkward angle that makes it tricky. This intersection is highly traversed by students walking between schools or to commercial establishments on Route 50. These safety improvements complete a series of initiatives taken on by both the towns of Ballston and Glenville, assisted by Saratoga County and New York State Department of Transportation over the past several years to provide a safe walk between the middle school and the high school for BH-BL students. The residents of the hamlet of Burnt Hills and the students of BH-BL are grateful!”

Residents are encouraged to follow the County’s Facebook page for updates about the crosswalk installation.

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Zim Smith Trail

Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Pass Unlawful Intruder Law

Local Law a proactive step to protect property owners from squatters seeking to unlawfully attain tenant protections

May 23, 2024

BALLSTON SPA, NY – The Saratoga County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed an Unlawful Intruder Law at its May 21, 2024, Board Meeting. Local Law #2 of 2024 authorizes property owners to request the removal of unlawful occupants from dwellings.

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The purpose of this law is to protect owners of dwellings in Saratoga County from unlawful occupants commonly referred to as “squatters” and to protect lawful occupants of dwellings from unlawful evictions.

“The Saratoga County Board of Supervisors have taken a proactive approach to protect property owners from being unlawfully invaded and occupied,” said Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman Phil Barrett (Clifton Park). “The new legislation is clear, concise, easily enforceable, does not pre-empt New York State Lawand is supported by court decisions. Someone who unlawfully enters a home in the first instance will never acquire tenant rights.”

Barrett also stated the issue of squatters assuming control of private property is growing in New York and other areas of the country. He also noted it is important to not allow the conversation about squatters to be confused with laws regarding landlords and tenants, because “people unlawfully entering a property is not a landlord/tenant issue.”

Under the law, a property owner or their authorized agent may request from law enforcement immediate removal of a person or persons unlawfully occupying a dwelling in Saratoga County via an affidavit. The law outlines conditions for removal of an unlawful occupant(s), specifically excluding legal tenants, and provides law enforcement with a mechanism to act without unreasonable delay.

The law takes effect 60 days from adoption. A copy of the law is available at the County’s website, www.saratogacountyny.gov/departments/board-of-supervisors/local-law/.

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Zim Smith Trail

Section of Zim Smith Trail to Close for Maintenance

Closures in Malta and Round Lake May 22-24; May 28-30
Trail Open for Use Memorial Day Weekend

May 17, 2024

MALTA, NY – Saratoga County officials today announced the Zim Smith Trail from Eastline Road in Malta to Curry Road in Round Lake will close from Wednesday, May 22 through Friday, May 24, 2024, and again from Tuesday, May 28 through Thursday, May 30, 2024, for a paving project. The trail will be open for use during Memorial Day holiday weekend.

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Crews will be on site during these times to complete overlay paving on the trail. Final restoration work, including topsoil and seeding in the area, is slated to continue through June 24th. Trail users are encouraged to remain alert while using the trail, read trail signage, and follow the Saratoga County Facebook page for future updates.

The trail restoration is part of Saratoga County Sewer District’s interceptor rehabilitation project, which installed a cured in place pipe liner to replace the existing concrete pipe that was showing signs of advanced degradation. The 14-mile rehabilitation of the county’s main artery for sewer service will increase the useful life of the pipe for the next 50 years or longer.

About the Zim Smith Trail:
A backbone of the county trail system, the Zim Smith trail is a paved, 11.5-mile multi-use trail connects Ballston Spa to Mechanicville through the towns of Ballston, Malta and Clifton Park, the village of Round Lake and Mechanicville. The Zim Smith Trail is owned by Saratoga County and is the only trail in New York State to be designated a National Recreation Trail by the U.S. Department of Interior and National Park Service. National recreation trail designation recognizes existing trails and trail systems that link communities to recreational opportunities on public lands and in local parks across the nation. Learn more about the County’s trail system at www.saratogacountyny.gov/trails.

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Gideon Putnam Burying Ground Historic Marker

Gideon Putnam Burying Ground Historic Marker Restored

May 13, 2024

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Vice Chair, Matt Veitch (Saratoga Springs) was joined by the Saratoga Springs Historian, Saratoga Preservation Foundation, Saratoga Springs DPW, Saratoga Springs History Museum, and TR Signs to unveil the restored Gideon Putnam Burying Ground Historic Marker.

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Supervisor Veitch secured funding in the County’s 2023 budget to dedicate to various projects in Saratoga Springs. Veitch spearheaded an initiative to restore multiple historic markers and signs throughout the city. These include Gideon Putnam Burial Ground, Bryan Home (Olde Bryan Inn), NYS County Highway Superintendents Association Founding site, Walworth Estate (Pine Grove), The ‘Gut’ or the ‘Valley commemoration of Jewish Contributions to the City, Solomon Northup Memorial, Dublin Neighborhood marker.

The Gideon Putnam Burying Ground is located on South Franklin Street in Saratoga Springs. Named for the founding father of Saratoga Springs, Gideon Putnam, the cemetery contains more than 150 graves of early and mid-19th century, mostly working-class residents of the city. In 1835, the Putnam’s gave their family burial land to the village of Saratoga Springs to be used as a public burial plot. In 1812, Gideon Putnam became the first to be buried here.

Supervisor Matt Veitch said, “Historical markers tell the stories of Saratoga Springs’ rich and varied history. Through this historic marker restoration project, we are promoting our city’s historical sites for our residents and visitors and ensuring that these stories are preserved for future generations. I thank my colleagues on the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors for supporting funding for projects in Saratoga Springs.”
Michele Funiciello of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation said, “The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation thanks County Supervisor Matt Veitch for his efforts to refurbish the signs throughout the city that share our community’s history.”

Saratoga Springs City Historian Mary Ann Fitzgerald said, “I would like to thank Supervisor Matt Veitch for securing the funding for restoration of historical markers and all those who support this initiative. Earlier efforts by Gene Corsale decades ago helped to raise awareness of the importance of maintaining and marking our historic spaces. This project assures that our historic landscape will be recognized and honored for generations to come.”

Restoration of historical markers is an important part of the County’s historic preservation efforts. Historical markers benefit communities and the entire county by educating the public, fostering historic tourism, and sparking further interest in local history.

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Naloxone

Saratoga County to Hold Free Narcan Training & Distribution in Ballston Spa Monday

May 10, 2024

BALLSTON SPA, NY – Saratoga County will hold a free Narcan training and distribution event on Monday, May 13, from 12pm to 3pm at the VFW Post 358 in the Village of Ballston Spa (68 E North Street, NY 12020). This distribution event is in partnership with the Saratoga County Department of Health, Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, Town of Milton, the Village of Ballston Spa, and VFW Post 358.

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Participants will learn how to recognize an opioid overdose and administer nasal Narcan, which takes approximately 10 minutes. Participants will receive a free Narcan rescue kit, which includes two doses of Narcan, a rescue breathing face shield, a certificate of training, a drug disposal system, and a mental health and substance use disorder resource guide.

Naloxone, sold under the brand name Narcan, is a safe medication that can save someone’s life by reversing the effects of an opioid overdose. It only works on opioids, such as heroin, prescription pain medications and fentanyl, but it is safe to use even if opioids are not present. 911 should always be called after administering Naloxone. New York State’s Good Samaritan Law allows people to call 911 without fear of arrest if they are having a drug overdose that requires emergency medical care or if they witness someone overdosing.

Residents who are unable to attend the distribution can request an overdose rescue kit at www.saratogacountyny.gov/narcan.

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Naloxone

Saratoga County to Hold Free Narcan Training & Distribution in Northumberland Thursday

May 6, 2024

GANSEVOORT, NY – Saratoga County will hold a free Narcan training and distribution event on Thursday, May 9, from 5pm to 7pm at the Gansevoort Volunteer Fire Department in the Town of Northumberland (1870 Route 32N, Gansevoort, NY 12831). This drive-through distribution event is in partnership with the Saratoga County Department of Health, Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, the Town of Northumberland and Gansevoort Volunteer Fire Department.

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Participants will learn how to recognize an opioid overdose and administer nasal Narcan, which takes approximately 10 minutes. Participants will receive a free Narcan rescue kit, which includes two doses of Narcan, a rescue breathing face shield, a certificate of training, a drug disposal system, and a mental health and substance use disorder resource guide.

Naloxone, sold under the brand name Narcan, is a safe medication that can save someone’s life by reversing the effects of an opioid overdose. It only works on opioids, such as heroin, prescription pain medications and fentanyl, but it is safe to use even if opioids are not present. 911 should always be called after administering Naloxone. New York State’s Good Samaritan Law allows people to call 911 without fear of arrest if they are having a drug overdose that requires emergency medical care or if they witness someone overdosing.

Residents who are unable to attend the distribution can request an overdose rescue kit at www.saratogacountyny.gov/narcan.

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