Albany County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Albany County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Conveyance of county-owned parcels in Albany
The county will sell its 60 South Pearl Street building to developers for $1.7 million — above the $1.4 million appraisal — with Probation relocated within a year. Legislators questioned why only one bid came in amid a weak commercial market.
Sale of Binghamton Street parcel to Momentum Environmental
The county bought about 14 acres near the Port of Albany for $999,000 and is now selling half to Momentum Environmental for $1.2 million, keeping the rest for a public safety training facility. Members called it a good deal; the buyer plans a new building and full-time jobs.
Stedman House renovation
The county renewed its cleaning contract with NYSID, which employs disabled workers, for the Stedman House while it's being remodeled. One legislator asked about expanding such contracts and whether disabled county employees could do the work.
Empire State Plaza Reconveyance to New York State
The county is finally closing the books on a 1965 deal, formally returning the Empire State Plaza parcels to New York State now that the lease has expired and all bonds were paid off years ago.
Convention center expansion on schedule for 2027
Steel is going up and construction survived a rough winter without schedule slips — completion is targeted for early 2027. The facility already has 153 events booked for 2026 and is aiming for longer, bigger events rather than more of them.
Surplus Real Property Conveyance in Colonie
The county is officially declaring a parcel at 26 Pfeil Avenue in Colonie as surplus and moving forward with selling it.
Director of Affirmative Action appointment
Albany County is filling its top affirmative action post in Human Resources with a 20-plus-year county employee who came up through social services and union leadership. The committee's unanimous recommendation sends the choice to the full Legislature.