A Message from the County Executive

Dear Neighbors:

This month brought exciting momentum across Onondaga County, with major investments, community celebrations, and new destinations taking shape.

I was proud to announce Crouse Health as the official naming sponsor of the Harborview Aquarium and to help cut the ribbon on the newly revitalized Onondaga Lake Park Marina. These transformative projects will strengthen tourism in our community - an essential driver of sales tax and hotel occupancy tax revenue, which in turn supports the critical county programs and services our residents rely on.

August brought exciting news on the investment front, including a major $2 million Main Street initiative grant to support 19 projects across Syracuse’s North Side - strengthening small businesses and neighborhood vitality. At a joint press conference with Mayor Owens, we emphasized how strong county-city collaboration is essential to moving our entire community forward.

Onondaga Community College is now back in session, as are SU and Le Moyne. I wish all our undergraduate students a successful year. It’s an especially meaningful for me as I now have my first college student in the family! With K-12 students returning next month, I also extend my best wishes to them and to the teachers, administrators, bus drivers, and support staff who keep our schools running. Here’s to a great year ahead. Let’s make it the best one yet!

August is a month worth reading about, so please keep scrolling down. Onondaga County continues building a brighter, more vibrant future - one project, one partnership, and one celebration at a time.

As always, it is an honor to serve as your County Executive and if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office.

Sincerely,

Ryan

Celebrated in August, National Wellness Month encourages individuals to make self-care a priority, build healthy routines and support their mental, physical and emotional well-being. Whether you're focusing on hydration, movement, mindfulness or simply slowing down, this month is your reminder to put your wellness first.

To learn more about the history of National Wellness Month, please click below:

National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) is an annual observance during the month of August that highlights the importance of vaccination for people of all ages. Together, we can help raise awareness about the importance of vaccination and encourage people to talk with a healthcare provider about staying up to date on their vaccinations.

To learn more about National Immunization Awareness Month, please click below:

August is National Black Business Month and recognizes black-owned businesses across the country as well as honors the contributions they make to our economy and communities throughout the nation.

To learn more about National Black Business Month, click below:

National Purple Heart Day is observed on August 7th each year. This day honors U.S Armed Forces members who have been wounded or killed in combat, recognizing their sacrifice and bravery.

To learn more about National Purple Heart Day, click below:

Celebrated every August, National Breastfeeding Month celebrates all the breastfeeding families across the nation. Breastfeeding supports babies health, helps mom stay healthy and strengthens the bond between parent and baby.

To learn more about National Breastfeeding Month, click below:

ON Farm Fest is Saturday, September 19th 2026

The Onondaga County Agriculture Council will hold the 10th annual ON Farm Fest on September 19th, 2026.Visitors will enjoy a free day of family-friendly fun as local farms across Onondaga County opened for tours from 10am-3pm. At ON Farm Fest, you'll learn about life on the farm and discover the latest advances in agriculture. Many farms have local products and food for sale, live music and interactive exhibits.

To learn more about the 10th annual ON Farm Fest and host farms, click below:

County Executive McMahon Participates in CEO Soak Syracuse to Support The ALS Association

County Executive McMahon joined other community leaders to participate in this year's CEO Soak Syracuse Fundraiser to support The ALS Association. The money raised will help fund research for the new treatments and cure for ALS as well as provide help to those in our community living with ALS.

Inspired by the Ice Bucket Challenge, the CEO Soak has grown to become one of the premier corporate engagement opportunities and entertaining events for The ALS Association. The CEO Soak engages community leaders to get soaked for ALS while raising critical funds and awareness for The ALS Association's mission.

If you'd like, you can still make a donation to the CEO Soak Syracuse. Click below, and thank you!

County Executive McMahon Unveils

Revitalized Onondaga Lake Park Marina

County Executive McMahon joined the Onondaga County Parks team and local officials to unveil the newly revitalized Onondaga Lark Park Marina, marking a major milestone in expanding public access and strengthening the region's economic vitality.

The nearly $10 million project represents the most significant investment in the marina since its construction in 1933 by the Works Progress Administration. Following decades of limited upgrades, the modernization expands capacity, enhances safety, and positions the facility as a premier recreational destination for residents and visitors across Central New York.

County Executive McMahon said, "From the start, this project has been about unlocking the economic and recreational potential of Onondaga Lake for every resident. By expanding marina capacity, enhancing environmental safely, and upgrading our infrastructure, we are creating a vibrant waterfront destination that supports local jobs, businesses, and tourism across Central New York."

County Executive McMahon Announces Major

Main Street Initiative For North Side Of Syracuse

County Executive McMahon announced the City of Syracuse is getting a boost from Onondaga County's Main Street initiative.

A $2 million investment -- with $1.5 million in County support and $500,000 in matches from property owners -- will fund 19 projects along key North Side corridors to refresh facades, support small businesses, and strengthen neighborhood vitality.

County Executive McMahon made the announcement with Mayor Sharon Owens at his side. Since 2019, the Main Street initiative has driven $38.5 million in community improvements across 357 projects countywide.

County Executive McMahon Makes

PAWS-ITIVELY Big Announcment

County Executive McMahon visited the CNY SPCA to share the news that Onondaga County is providing $150,000 in stabilization funding to ensure continuity of essential animal sheltering, veterinary care, humane services, and public safety support during a period of organizational transition.

To learn more about the CNY SPCA and all the adoptable animals, click below:

County Executive McMahon Announces Crouse Health as Official Naming Sponsor of the New Harborview Aquarium

County Executive McMahon Visits

Beak & Skiff Apple Orchard

County Executive McMahon visited Beak & Skiff Apple Orchard to help open their new Apple Grove Adventure Park. The park is described as the premier agri-tourism venue in NYS, featuring a wide range of hands-on, imaginative attractions designed for families.

Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards was founded in 1911 by George Skiff and Andrew Beak, it has grown into a century-old family business known for apples, cider, and spirits.

Click here to learn more about Apple Grove and the many fun activities.

Back to Back Ribbon Cuttings!

On August 11, County Executive McMahon kicked off the day at the Chimes Building in the City of Syracuse, to celebrate new affordable housing coming to the city, supported in part by over $1 million in county funding.

That afternoon, the County Executive visited the brand-new Steigs Grillhouse in the Village of Manlius, a vibrant addition to the community seared into reality with support from the county's Main Street grant program.

Strategic investments building a brighter tomorrow!

National Night Out!

County Executive McMahon joined law enforcement and local organizations for National Night Out at Longbranch Park and Kirk Park. He was honored to spend time with families, kids, and the awesome Onondaga County teams from Parks Police, Probation, Health, Emergency Management, 911, Sheriff's Office and OCC Campus Safety and Security.

It was a perfect night celebrating National Night Out. We're strongest when we work together!

County Executive McMahon Honors

Remarkable Life of Mark Cass

Mark Cass was more than a community leader in Onondaga County. To many, he was like family. He was steady and compassionate presence who showed up, listened, encouraged, and believed in people. Most importantly, he treated everyone he met with dignity and respect.

Mark's compassion shaped the lives of countless New American families, and his tireless work at the North Side Learning Center created a place where newcomers could learn, grow, and discover their own potential. His efforts strengthened neighborhoods and built meaningful connections across cultures and faiths, leaving an unmistakable mark on Syracuse and Onondaga County.

Mark embodied the kind of commitment and humanity we need more of in our community. His loss is deeply felt. He shared my vision for supporting families, expanding opportunities, and helping our community flourish. I am grateful for the privilege of working alongside him, including our recent efforts together. His impact will endure, and Onondaga County is stronger because of Mark's leadership, kindness, and unwavering belief in people and community.

J. Ryan McMahon, II

Onondaga County Executive

County Executive McMahon Tours

New InterFaith Works Project

County Executive McMahon joined Syracuse Mayor Sharon Owens and other community leaders for a tour of The Welcome Home, the ongoing renovation project by InterFaith Works. The visit highlighted the nonprofit's mission to create a welcoming space for New American's.

County Executive McMahon praised the project importance, noting that such initiatives ensures every person who arrives in Onondaga County has the opportunity to feel safe, supported and at home.

Honoring Dolly Parton

We join in celebrating the incredible life of Dolly Parton and the lasting impact she made on music and on our communities.

More than 30 years ago, she launched Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, a program that sends free, high quality books to children from birth to age five -- regardless of their family's income. Currently, more than 16,000 Onondaga County children receive books through the program each month.

In June, County Executive McMahon, celebrated with the Basiliere family as their son Maverick received the 2 millionth book delivered in Onondaga County through the Imagination Library! During that celebration, he joined Syracuse Mayor Sharon Owens in proclaiming "Dolly Parton Imagination Library Recognition Day" in both the county and the city.

As we honor Dolly's remarkable contributions and the transformative work she championed for children and our community, we're sharing this special video she recorded for the occasion. Lets continue her mission of inspiring young readers.

Every Journey Matters. Every Life Counts. The Onondaga County Department of Planning is in the process of developing a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan to identify ways to make travel safer and reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities throughout the County. The plan will build on the goals of Plan Onondaga County Comprehensive Plan's and the County’s commitment to Vision Zero by recommending actions that support safer travel for all roadway users. 

We want to hear from you! Your feedback matters and is an important part of this process. Responses are anonymous and confidential. To take the survey: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/816d40d5ff904f16a73bd2a59f5c9684

Learn more about Safe Streets Onondaga Action Plan: https://plan.onondaga.gov/safe-streets-onondaga-action-plan/ 

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

Supporting Small Businesses in Onondaga County

"Small business owners, this one's for you! The Onondaga County Opportunity Fund (OCOF) helps provide financial assistance to businesses located outside the City of Syracuse in Onondaga County to support business expansion, job retention, and job creation. OCOF offers three different loan options with a range of low interest rates — Micro-Enterprise Fund, Small Business Assistance Fund and the Community Impact Fund. Businesses must be in operation for at least a year to be eligible. Learn more or apply today by visiting: https://ongoved.com/not-for-profit/ocof/"

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

FreshConnect Checks Programs For Veterans