State of the County

My 2026 State of the County Address at the Seneca Park Zoo highlighted our progress and outlined the work ahead. The future will be built through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to serving our residents. I’m excited to share this vision and the work we will accomplish together.

FREE America 250th Celebration – July 12 at ESL Ballpark

Monroe County will come together for a free, once-in-a-generation communitywide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. The festivities will take place on Sunday, July 12, from 5 to 9 p.m. at ESL Ballpark, presenting something for everyone, live music, food and drinks (for purchase), community exhibits, sports and skills games, interactive all-ages activities, and a spectacular fireworks finale. This is a can’t-miss experience!

Steps To Success Rochester 

Steps to Success Rochester is a new anti-poverty initiative that is currently enrolling participants. Steps to Success is an upward mobility navigation program designed to help families increase income, strengthen stability, and achieve long-term economic success. By connecting residents to real opportunities and personalized support, we are helping more people move toward financial stability and long-term success.

Municipalites Can Now Apply to the Community Climate Action Fund Pilot Program

The Monroe County Community Climate Action Fund Pilot Program will provide grants to municipalities within Monroe County looking to advance initiatives that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Applications will be accepted through 4 p.m. on June 17, 2026.

New Director for Monroe County’s Office of Mental Health 

Join me in welcoming our new Director of the Office of Mental Health, Melissa Armstrong. The Office of Mental Health connects individuals and families to lifesaving mental health, developmental disability, and substance use services. We look forward to her leadership and impact across Monroe County. 

Concerts by the Shore

Wegman’s Concerts by the Shore Series is already in full swing and is celebrating its 40th year this season. The series takes place at 7 p.m. every Wednesday at Ontario Beach Park through August 26. Parking is available in the beach parking lots and the park is accessible by RTS.

Monroe County’s Opioid Awareness Campaign Earns Bronze Telly Award

The recently-awarded Telly Award reflects the hard work happening across Monroe County to address the overdose crisis with compassion, education, and community partnership. The call-to-action campaign was created to reach people with clear information, reduce fear around asking for help, and remind families that support and recovery are possible. Thank you to our Department of Public Health, community partners, and the individuals who shared their stories to help others know they are not alone.

MCC Graduation

These Monroe Community College graduates are ready to change the world! Some will continue their education and others will enter the workforce. Regardless of their next steps, their MCC education has provided a solid foundation. Congrats to the graduating Class of 2026!

First All-Female Honor Flight Rochester

Honor Flight Rochester Mission 95 made history as the first all-female mission. The 59 female veterans and volunteers embodied generations of courage and service, shining a light on contributions that were too often overlooked and proving that leadership and bravery have no gender.

Memorial Day Celebrations

I was grateful to stand alongside the Towns of Pittsford, Greece, Irondequoit, and our entire Monroe County community on Memorial Day honoring the memory of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation.

Rochester Hispanic Youth Baseball League 

Youth organizations like the RHYBL do more than teach the game—they help shape the next generation of leaders. Sports bring families and communities together while teaching valuable life skills such as goal setting, teamwork, communication, discipline, and commitment—all while giving young people the chance to have fun and thrive.

APEX Accelerator

The Monroe County - Upstate NY APEX Accelerator program helps small businesses sell products and services to the government. Over the past 5 years, they helped over 300 local businesses secure approximately 22,500 federal contracts worth a combined $3.65 billion. I encourage you to reach out if you are interested in government contracting.

Additional America 250th Celebrations

Celebrate America’s 250th all summer long! Monroe County’s Festival Funding is helping bring three community events to life: 

• June 24 – Webster Arboretum
• July 4 – Genesee Country Village & Museum
• July 12 – ESL Ballpark
• Aug 14 & 15 – Churchville Summerfest

Be part of something BIGGER.

Work for Monroe County.

See our open opportunities.