A Message from the County Executive

Dear Friends,

March was a busy and inspiring month for Onondaga County.

County Executive Ryan McMahon led several milestone initiatives, including the grand opening of a renovated lead-abatement home, designed to protect families and reinforce our commitment to public health. The County also celebrated its support for the refugee community with our partners at Catholic Charities and Upstate. 

Our Parks Department also had an exciting month, earning multiple regional awards and hosting multiple spring.

Finally, County Executive McMahon’s State of the County address laid out an ambitious growth agenda — from supporting Micron-area economic development and expanding affordable housing to exploring a solar farm on former landfill land, relocating jail operations to create a public safety campus, and showcasing new–soon-to-open attractions like Syracuse’s aquarium and a Savannah Connections exhibit at the zoo.

As spring begins, we’re energized by this wave of progress and look forward to what the coming months will bring.

Sincerely,

Ryan

County Executive McMahon Delivers

2026 State of the County Address

County Executive Ryan McMahon made history this month when he delivered his 2026 State of the County address at Syracuse’s STEAM High School - it was the first event held in the school’s auditorium since the school was renovated and reopened to students in September. He highlighted the transformative economic impact of Micron’s semiconductor project, which is driving thousands of new jobs and attracting additional tech‑sector investment. In addition, he announced major housing initiatives and expanded affordability grant to address rising demand and support workforce growth. The County Executive also unveiled a significant public‑safety shift, proposing a consolidated jail and public‑safety campus in Jamesville to replace downtown operations. Community projects like the aquarium and the zoo’s expansion highlighted his continued commitment to enhancing quality of life in Onondaga County.

“We have accomplished a great deal, but this is just the beginning.”

To watch the speech in its entirety, click below:

Irish American Heritage Month is a month‑long celebration honoring the history, achievements, and enduring contributions of Irish immigrants and their descendants. It recognizes the profound influence Irish Americans have had on the cultural, social, and civic fabric of the United States. This month invites us to reflect on the rich stories that shape the Irish American experience and to acknowledge the resilience, spirit, and legacy of the Irish people.



To learn more Irish American, click below:

March is Women's History Month and celebrates the collective strength and influence of women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship and leadership and have helped shape the minds and futures of all generations.

The origins of Women's History Month date back to 1978 in Santa Rosa, California, when the Education Task Force of Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women planned a "Women's History Week" celebration to correspond with International Women's Day.

To learn more about Women's History Month, click below:

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM) recognizes the contributions of people with developmental disabilities, raises awareness of the challenges they face and promotes inclusion in our communities.

Established in 1987 by President Reagan, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month was created to highlight the importance of fostering a society where people with disabilities are empowered to contribute to their communities.

To learn more about Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, click below:

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a key time to raise awareness, share lifesaving information, and encourage screening. Did you know that colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer deaths among people younger than 50? Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer and is the only type of cancer to increase in deaths since 2005. Thankfully, colorectal cancer can be prevented with regular screening!

Early detection saves lives. 9 in 10 colorectal cancers are diagnosed in adults aged 45 and older. Screening can prevent cancer by identifying precancerous polyps, so they can be removed before they develop into cancer. 

Onondaga County’s Cancer Services Program (CSP) offers free colorectal cancer screening to uninsured or underinsured adults:

• At-home stool testing kits (FIT kits) and follow-up colonoscopies (if needed)
• Screenings are available to residents 45+, and fully covered including diagnostic follow-up and assistance applying for cancer treatment coverage.

Take action today: If you’re 45 or older, talk with your healthcare provider about colorectal cancer screening, or call 315‑435‑3653 to access free services through the CSP. Screening can prevent disease and save lives. Let’s work together to reduce colorectal cancer in Onondaga County!

To learn more about Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, click below:

National Nutrition Month is celebrated every March and encourages fostering healthy eating habits and living a healthy lifestyle.

The origin of National Nutrition Month dates back to 1973 when it began as National Nutrition Week, an initiative designed to increase awareness about healthy eating. It was expanded to a full month in 1980 and continues to thrive by educating people on how to develop lifelong healthy eating habits.

County Executive McMahon Marches in

2026 Syracuse St. Patrick's Parade

County Executive McMahon joined Syracuse Mayor Sharon Owens and other dignitaries in marching in the Syracuse St. Patrick's Parade.

The Syracuse St. Patrick's Parade was founded in 1982 by Nancy Duffy and has since grown into one of the largest parades in the United States. It is run entirely by volunteers and celebrates the large Irish-American community in Onondaga County.

County Executive McMahon Announces New Rare Species at Rosamond Gifford Zoo

County Executive McMahon announced the addition of two rare species to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo: the Amur leopard and the rufous elephant shrew. The amur leopard is an endangered species with fewer than 100 individuals left in the wild, while the black and rufous elephant shrew is native to the forests of East Africa.

County Executive McMahon Names Dan Meates as

New Rosamond Gifford Zoo Director

County Executive McMahon officially appointed Dan Meates as new Rosamond Gifford Zoo Director. Dan has been interim director since May 2025 and prior to that was the General Curator at the zoo for nearly 10 years, during which time he was responsible for all aspects of animal collection management and oversaw exhibition planning. Congratulations Dan!

Onondaga County Parks Honored With Central New York Parks & Recreation Society Awards (CNYRPS)!

County Executive McMahon Attends

2026 NYSAC Legislative Conference

County Executive McMahon attended the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) 2026 Legislative Conference to discuss ways to help our state and counties move forward.

The County Executive welcomed New York State Budget Director Blake Washington for an important discussion on how the state budget directly impacts local counties. County Executive McMahon was also honored to receive NYSAC's Executive Director Public Service Award which is given to those who have made outstanding contributions to county government in the state.

County Executive McMahon Attends Roundtable Discussion on Social Justice

County Executive McMahon was honored to take part in a roundtable discussion hosted by The Lender Center for Social Justice at Syracuse University. He shared his perspective on where we are locally and what he believes lies ahead for our region.

The Lender Center for Social Justice is a University center promoting multi-disciplinary and dynamic collaborations that support the development of courageous and ethical scholars and citizens at Syracuse University who are committed to practices of social justice. The Center aspires to foster proactive, innovative and interdisciplinary approaches to issues related to social justice, equity and inclusion.

County Executive McMahon Honors Catholic Charities Contributions to Community

County Executive McMahon along with Health Commissioner Dr. Katie Anderson, Upstate Medical University's Dr. Andrea Shaw and Catholic Charities Director Mike Melara joined the Refugee Immigrant Health Hub (RIHH) staff to celebrate the team's outstanding contributions to our community.

RIHH is a nurse led public health program that connects individuals and families with healthcare, resources and culturally responsive support as they build new lives in Onondaga County. From resettlement agencies and cultural organizations to healthcare providers, interpreters and neighborhood groups.

County Executive McMahon Announces

Newest Main Street Grant Recipient

County Executive McMahon visited the Village of Manlius to announce the first Main Street grant of the year, marking a major boost for local revitalization. With support from county funds and local businesses, a total of $300,000 is being invested into the village’s business district.

County Executive McMahon Announces

New Lead Initiative

County Executive McMahon joined Syracuse Mayor Sharon Owens and Home HeadQuarters Founder/CEO Kerry Quaglia to celebrate the official opening of a new home where families will be able to stay—free of charge—while lead abatement work is happening at their own home.

County Executive McMahon said there was "a clear need" for this type of property and used the opening to highlight the county's ongoing fight against lead.

"There's a lot being done and there's a lot of money being invested. At no point in our community's history has there been more money being invested to tackle this issue."

County Executive McMahon Honors

One Stop Shop Alum Emmanuel Blue

County Executive McMahon recognized One Stop Shop alum Emmanuel Blue and all his accomplishments. Emmanuel considers connecting with One Stop Shop as a major turning point in his journey.

Emmanuel commenced his engagement with the One Stop Shop on March 17, 2025. He has consistently participated in our training programs and workshops, which have significantly contributed to the growth of his business, allowing him to secure a total of 20 active contracts.

Today, Emmanuel's company Solutions By Cyan Inc. delivers high-quality janitorial and floor care services with an emphasis on efficiency, safety and professionalism. Congratulations Emmanuel and continued success!

Onondaga County Planning Federation (OCPF)

37th Annual Planning Symposium

Onondaga County hosted the 37th Annual Planning Symposium. Our Economic Development team joined local leaders and community members to participate in trainings and listen to this year's keynote speaker, President and CEO of Saratoga Economic Development Corporation J. Gregory Connors.

As we prepare for the unprecedented growth in our community, training and education play an important role in coordinating and collaborating with our local partners to create successful plans for our community.

To learn more about the Onondaga County Planning Federation, click below:

Is your rental property in need of a makeover? The Vacant Rental Program (VRP) may be right for you! VRP is a rental rehabilitation grant program available for Onondaga County property owners that is aimed to help owners of rental properties bring vacant units and spaces in small-scale properties back into productive use to create safe, quality and affordable long-term rental units. You may be eligible for grants up to $50,000 or $75,000 per unit. Find out if you're eligible or apply today by scanning the QR code above or clicking the link below. For questions regarding the Vacant Rental Program (VRP), please contact Susan Boyle at 315-435-3558 x5810 or SusanBoyle@ongov.net.

https://onondaga.gov/cd/vacant-rental-program/ 

Homework Help

OCPL Provided Databases

Brainfuse HelpNow

Online test preparation, homework help, study aids, skill building, and live tutoring resource for children and adults.  

Gale OneFile: Educator's Reference Complete

Google is usually everyone’s go-to for research, but not all the results are accurate. Our library provides Gale OneFile collections to connect you to trusted, up-to-date content from leading magazines, newspapers and scholarly journals. These collections are easy to access, and with integrated tools, you can save, download and share.

K-8 Databases

A list of several databases that students in grades K-8 can use to assist with learning, school projects and more.

Online Learning Databases

Access to online learning opportunities including Brainfuse, LinkedIn Learning and more.

To learn more about Homework Help and other OCPL events, click below:

After-Hours Passport Application Appointments

Onondaga County Clerk Emily Essi Bersani is pleased to announce a pilot program offering after-hours passport application appointments. The extended hours are designed to accommodate residents who may have difficulty accessing services during standard business hours. The County Clerk’s office will offer appointments for passport applications from 4:00pm-6:00pm, every other Wednesday.

To schedule an appointment, please call the Office of the County Clerk at (315) 435-2227. Please be prepared to let us know how many applicants will be applying, and if you need photos taken. County Clerk staff will review a list of documents you must bring to the appointment.

*Please note this is for first-time applicants or applicants who do not qualify for a renewal only. If you need to renew a passport, please visit travel.state.gov.

FreshConnect Checks Programs For Veterans

For a list of current job openings with Onondaga County, click below: