Hometown News: May 27

The latest on local real estate during the pandemic, along with the scoop on the plan for Lake George beaches and Prospect Mountain, what’s next for high school basketball in Glens Falls, and more! 

Buying, Selling, or Thinking About It? The Latest in Local Real Estate

How’s the Glens Falls real estate market doing during the pandemic?

Are houses selling? Are buyers looking? Is there enough inventory? Are virtual tours and Zoom walk-throughs leading to signed contracts while agents are forbidden to have in-person contact with clients?

We checked in with three local real estate professionals for some answers, and Laura J. Burns, CEO of the Greater Capital Association of Realtors in Albany, supplied us with some relevant data.

• Single-family home sales in Warren County were down 33% in April compared to April of last year. This year, there were 44 sales in April, compared to 66 in 2019. The average sale price in April 2020 was $243,561; Last April it was $234,430. So, fewer houses sold, but the average price was up 4%.

• In March of this year, single-family home sales were down 21% compared to March 2019. This March, when the pandemic and economic shutdown began, there were 53 sales, down 21% from the 67 sales in March 2019. But again, the average sale price this March was $326,010, up 3% from the March 2019 average of $315,583.

• Year-to-date residential sales in Warren County are off 35% from the same period last year (197 this year, 304 in 2019), but the average sale price is up 12% ($299,635 in 2020 compared to $268,305 in 2019).

“These are new waters to navigate, but it’s not impossible,” said Angela Cugini-Girard of Howard Hanna. “You have to adjust to the circumstances to survive.”

She said since March 23rd, she has closed 15 deals.

“Prices are not dropping,” Mrs. Cugini-Girard said. “If anything, prices are closer to the list price than before the pandemic. That’s because there’s a lack of inventory because people are waiting to list their houses.”

She said she had listed a higher-end vacant home in Queensbury over the winter, but took it off the market until spring, when she listed it for $344,900.

“My clients took a virtual tour, and I sold it in 24 hours for $340,000,” she said.

Under state rules, real estate agents can’t go into homes. They can open the door but then leave the property. [Note: the New York State Association of REALTORS notes that agents who choose to travel to the property to open the door for showings do so at their own risk. See their recommendations here.] Prospective buyers looking at vacant homes must wear masks and gloves. Someone selling their home can show it, but an agent cannot. Virtual tours via FaceTime or Zoom are now the norm.

Julie Snyder of Howard Hanna said, “People are buying and putting in offers sight unseen. We are seeing a lot of cash offers, a lot of multiple offers, and a lot of people from downstate looking to move up here. And there’s not enough inventory in Glens Falls. There never is. But there are a lot of properties ready to come on the market.”

Jen Ball of Hunt Real Estate said, “There are a lot of buyers out there but also a lot of fear. But a lot of inventory is starting to hit the market because people are getting sick of this shutdown. Once we are released, I predict there will be a huge boom because local buyers are ready to go, plus the influx of people from out of the area.”

Ms. Ball said, “Houses are being sold. There is a lot of pent-up interest. I’ve had a ton of buyers looking to relocate to this area, and I have multiple listings ready to come on the market. I haven’t listed a ton of homes, but I have a lot ready to go on the market.”

Ms. Cugini-Girard said, “I’m telling sellers to list their house and we will take a different approach because it’s working and homes are selling. Agents have to be a lot more creative. I’m now doing virtual tours with 3D floor plan, architectural plans and photos with DigitalADK.net.”

Ms. Snyder said, “It’s hard for me to not do a walk-through or be at a closing, but I go and look at properties on my own so I have an idea and can answer any questions my clients might have… But I’ve had two listings have multiple offers sight unseen from people from out of town. Interest rates are low. It’s a seller’s market.”

Life’s a Beach: The Scoop from Lake George

Million Dollar Beach in Lake George Village will be open weekends on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The same guidelines as last weekend will continue, with social distancing enforced and a maximum of 500 people allowed on the beach at any one time.

DEC told Glens Falls Living that it is “evaluating opening the beach full-time.”

DEC says Memorial Day weekend went well. “Cumulatively, more than 3,500 people spent time at the beach during the three-day period, with 1,425 visitors on Sunday alone. We did reach the 500-maximum number of people on the beach on Sunday, and temporarily restricted entry to the beach for approximately 30 minutes until a few visitors left. 
     

“Overall, visitors adhered to social distancing guidelines and many stated they were grateful for the opportunity to spend time on the beach, especially with the nice weather. In addition, DEC staff were pleased to provide the public with a safe and enjoyable recreational experience during the ongoing COVID-19 response.”

Lake George Village Mayor Robert Blais said overall crowds in the Village “were okay, not as large as usual. There weren’t any serious problems that I heard of, and visitors were happy with the disinfecting stations we had out, and for the restrooms.”

Mayor Blais said Shepard Park Beach and the Town of Lake George’s Usher Park Beach are set to open later in June.

“A lot of the hotels had 50% of their rooms available, and they were filled to capacity,” Mayor Blais said. “And we saw a lot of day trippers from Albany, Schenectady and Troy. They were just wanting to get by the lake.”

What about Prospect Mountain? When will that open?

A DEC spokesman said, “DEC is evaluating when to open Prospect Mountain Veteran’s Memorial Highway to motorized vehicles while ensuring staff and visitors meet guidance for social distancing, wearing masks when distancing cannot be maintained, and other guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

High School Basketball Will Be Back…

The executive committee of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Wednesday approved the state boys’ basketball tournament staying in Glens Falls for an additional year. The tournament was supposed to return to Cool Insuring Arena this past March, but it was cancelled because of the Coronavirus.

So, Glens Falls will now be the host in 2021, 2022 and 2023, which is great news for the City and for downtown, which comes alive during the three-day event.

COVID-19, County by County

Locally, the number of new cases in Warren, Washington and Saratoga counties has stabilized, as have the number of deaths. Warren County has 30 deaths, but hasn’t reported a new death since May 19th. Washington County remains steady at 13 deaths, and Saratoga County has been at 15 deaths for more than a week.

Warren County now has seen 30 residents die of COVID-19. Twenty-four of those deaths have been nursing home residents. Another four were residents of assisted living facilities. Two people remain hospitalized. There have been 238 cases overall in Warren County. 150 residents have recovered, and there are 58 active cases. 

Washington County has reported 13 deaths and 195 total cases since the pandemic began. 172 residents have recovered, with 10 cases still active. No Washington County residents are hospitalized as of Wednesday.

Saratoga County reports 15 deaths with 318 residents currently in isolation or quarantine, 462 confirmed cases overall, and four people hospitalized as of Wednesday. 398 residents have recovered, and there are 50 active cases, down 24 from last week.

NY State reports through May 25 that 14 residents of Glens Falls Center in Queensbury have died, with another five deaths presumed to be related to the virus. Eleven residents of Fort Hudson in Fort Edward have died. Four residents of The Pines in Glens Falls have died, with two additional presumed cases.

At Great Meadow Correctional Facility in Fort Ann, the state reports that as of Saturday, May 23rd, a total of 41 inmates had been infected. 32 have recovered. One test is pending. At Washington across the street, there are no inmates currently infected, with two having tested negative a few weeks ago.

Ending on a High Note

And finally, congratulations to Marc Monahan, who is the new chair of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC) board of directors.

Monahan, a Hudson Falls native, is regional executive of NBT Bank. 

“Working with the Chamber has been a gratifying experience and I am looking forward to my role as chair,” he said in a press release. “We currently have an engaged board and executive team ready for the challenges that lie ahead. I am eager to continue work side by side with Michael Bittel and his team…Given the current economic challenges we all face ahead, rest assured that we will do everything in our power to support the local business community and our members.”

Monahan earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from SUNY Oswego. He is a member of the Adirondack Civic Center Coalition Board, President of the Glens Falls Civic Center Foundation, and a member of the Glens Falls Hospital Foundation Board.

Until next time -
Gordon

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

Hometown News: May 20

In this week’s edition of Hometown News, Gordon shares the latest on the region’s reopening from Warren County’s Ryan Moore, a county by county COVID roundup, the scoop on funding for Glens Falls Hospital, updates from the City of Glens Falls, and a chance meeting with JG3.

It’s Happening - The Latest on Reopening from Warren County’s Ryan Moore

The big news this week is that the Capital Region, which includes Warren, Washington and Saratoga Counties, entered Phase One of reopening on Wednesday morning after the state adjusted its metrics.

Phase One allows “non-essential” businesses to gradually start reopening. Those businesses include construction; agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting; retail (limited to in-store pick-up or drop off); manufacturing and wholesale trade.

We will be in Phase One for at least two weeks while data is monitored every day by county administrators. The earliest the Capital Region could enter Phase Two is Wednesday, June 3. The earliest we could enter Phase Three is Wednesday, June 17.

Phase 2 allows professional services, retail, administrative support, real estate and rental and leasing businesses to gradually reopen. Phase 3 includes restaurants and food service, and Phase 4 includes arts, entertainment, recreation and education.

“Now our control room focus is looking at the seven metrics and making sure we don’t slip back,” Warren County Administrator Ryan Moore told Glens Falls Living Wednesday morning. “We’ve had a couple of nice days and people have been out and about in Lake George and elsewhere, and we haven’t seen an uptick in cases. So far, so good.”

When can barber shops and beauty salons reopen? Some media reports have them reopening in Phase Two.

“That’s still unclear to me,” Mr. Moore said. “The details are not fully put together for Phase Two…If it can be done safely, it will be done in Phase Two. If it can’t, it won’t.”

He said his focus is on advocating for campgrounds and RV parks in Warren County as we enter the Memorial Day weekend.

“Those regulations for campgrounds and RV parks have been very confusing to many counties in the Capital Region,” he said. “We need some clarity. We’ve got to get everyone on the same sheet of music before Memorial Day weekend.”

He’s confident that will happen and is anticipating further guidance from the state.

COVID-19, County by County

Warren County now has seen 29 residents die of COVID-19, up nine from last week. Twenty-three of those deaths have been nursing home residents. Another four were residents of assisted living facilities. Two people remain hospitalized. There have been 223 cases overall in Warren County. 142 residents have recovered, and there are 52 active cases.

Washington County has reported 13 deaths and 192 total cases since the pandemic began. 163 residents have recovered, with 16 cases still active. No Washington County residents are hospitalized.

Saratoga County reports 15 deaths, up one from last week, with 318 residents currently in isolation or quarantine, 429 confirmed cases overall, and six people hospitalized as of Wednesday. 340 residents have recovered, and there are 74 active cases.

New York State reports through May 18 that 13 residents of Glens Falls Center in Queensbury have died, with another five deaths presumed to be related to the virus. Eleven residents of Fort Hudson in Fort Edward have died. Four residents of The Pines in Glens Falls have died, with two additional presumed cases.

At Great Meadow Correctional Facility in Fort Ann, the state reports that as of Monday at 3 p.m., a total of 37 inmates had been infected. 29 inmates have recovered, seven tested negative and one inmate is currently infected. Five test results are pending.

At Washington across the street, there are no inmates currently infected, with two having tested negative earlier this month.

Glens Falls Hospital Will Receive $21 Million in Funding

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik announced Tuesday night that she had secured $21-million in Medicare Advance Payments for Glens Falls Hospital. The hospital will be receiving the money in the next five days, she said.

A press release said “The hospital applied for this funding from the Medicare Advance Payment over a month ago. Their application was put on pause, and Congresswoman Stefanik’s office was able to work directly to resume their application process.

“Congresswoman Stefanik led calls with HHS Deputy Secretary Hargan and district hospitals and extensively advocated for the unique challenges faced by Glens Falls Hospital. 

“Congresswoman Stefanik raised this issue directly with President Trump and the White House Chief of Staff over the weekend at Camp David and worked hard to deliver this significant result.

“‘I raised the importance of financial support for Glens Falls Hospital with President Trump and the White House Chief of Staff,’ said Congresswoman Stefanik. “In addition, I worked directly with HHS and Glens Falls Hospital to resolve the issue and ensure their funding of $21 million will be delivered in under a week. I will continue to work directly with hospitals, health departments, and struggling families to deliver much needed relief and results for my constituents.”

The Latest from the City of Glens Falls…

Attention Glens Falls Business Owners

The City of Glens Falls compiled a list of helpful information for city business owners in order to help them reopen swiftly and safely. Take a peek at the official letter from the Mayor here, as well as the City of Glens Falls Self-assessment and Affirmation of Compliance Form that businesses are required to fill out here.

—

Lawn Pickup

The City of Glens Falls has started open pickup of lawn and yard waste. It will continue through Friday, May 29.

Due to the late start, DPW crews will only be passing through the city once, officials report. “Please separate all bags, brush and branches as best as possible. Grass clippings must ALWAYS be bagged,” says a press release.

—

Hydrant Flushing

The City of Glens Falls will also begin its water main and fire hydrant flushing program on Monday, June 1st. Water service should not be disrupted, and it usually lasts 10 to 15 days.

If you notice your water is discolored, run several cold-water faucets at the same time until the water runs clear.  Avoid using hot water if the water is discolored. Avoid doing laundry until you’re sure the water is clear. If laundry becomes stained by discolored water, do not dry or bleach the laundry, call the office for assistance: (518) 761-3850.

How ‘Bout Horse Racing?

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has given the green light to horse racing at Saratoga Race Course this summer, but at this point with no fans. Wagering would still be allowed off-site. Last summer, horse racing fans wagered $558.7-million off-track on races at Saratoga. This year’s 40-day meet is scheduled to begin on Thursday, July 16, and continue through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7. For more info, click here.

Drive-Thru Food Pantry Event this Friday

There will be another drive-through food pantry event on Friday, May 22, starting at 11 a.m., at the Warren County Fairgrounds on Schroon River Road in Warrensburg. This event has been organized by The Salvation Army of Glens Falls in partnership with the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York along with Tri-County United Way and Comfort Food Community (with the support of Rotary Club of Glens Falls, Kiwanis Club of Glens Falls, Southern Adirondack Independent Living Center (SAIL) and other local organizations!). Here’s a link for all of the details.

Get Outside…But Do It Safely

The State Department of Environmental Conservation encourages responsible recreation during this public health crisis, and follows guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the state Department of Health. 

Social distancing guidelines include:
    •    Stay Local: Stay close to home. Keep visits short. Avoid high-traffic destinations.
    •    Be Safe: Avoid crowds and groups. Recreate only with members of your immediate household. Keep a distance of six feet or more from others. Alert others as you’re about to pass, or step aside to let people pass. Wear a mask when you cannot maintain social distancing.
    •    Be Ready: Move quickly through parking lots, trailheads, and scenic areas. If crowded, choose a different park, trail, or time to visit.
    •    Stay Home: If you’re not feeling well, stay home. Anyone 70 and older or with a compromised immune system should postpone their visit.

For more information, head to their website here.

Ending on a High Note

Saturday, my father and I had a very pleasant surprise when we went to Queensbury Country Club for a late-afternoon nine holes.

As we made our way to the back window to pay, I heard, “Well, hello Mr. Woodworth!”

It was Joseph Girard III, the Glens Falls basketball legend and starting point guard for the Syracuse Orange men’s basketball team!

JG3 was there with his boys Andrew Rizzo, Conor Schliff and Quinn Girard. They played in front of us, but not before we chatted about the season ahead and their golf games.

We ventured to the tee to watch them drive on the first hole. My observations: Joseph has a nice swing, but it’s too quick. He needs to slow it down. Andrew is a big man, and an athlete, and he’s got great potential. Connor and Quinn also have potential yet to be tapped. And they are all competitive.

Joseph didn’t hit his best drive. We urged him to hit another one, a breakfast ball, as it were.

He was having no part of it. 

“That’s cheating,” he said. “No mulligans.”

And off they went, but not before I snapped a quick photo.

I texted the photo to Joseph’s dad, and remarked how polite and courteous they were. Andrew took the time to thank my father for his service to our country (Dad had his Korean War Navy veteran hat on). Joseph was engaged and funny and nice.

JG3’s dad responded, “Glad to hear and it better be that way!!”

Until next time…
Gordon

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

When Michael Jordan Played in Glens Falls

As millions watch the 10-part Michael Jordan documentary “The Last Dance” on ESPN, we thought it would be fun to look back to Oct. 15, 1984, when Jordan, then a 21-year-old rookie and the third pick in that year’s NBA draft, played in a pre-season game at the Glens Falls Civic Center. 

Jordan hit the game-winning shot late in the fourth quarter as the Chicago Bulls edged the New York Knicks, 91-90, in front of a standing-room-only crowd of 6,386 fans that included Albany Patroons Coach Phil Jackson, who would later team with Jordan to win six NBA championships.

Jeff Casey was a water boy for the Bulls that night. His father Dave Casey was the Hall of Fame athletic trainer for the Adirondack Red Wings, and Jeff was a wide-eyed 9-year-old who was crazy about basketball like his dad.

Jeff Casey

“Michael Jordan was the rookie coming into the league,” Jeff told Glens Falls Living, “but I had no idea he would turn into what he did. The other guys on the team treated him like a rookie.

“I just remember it being very loud,” Jeff said. “It reminded me of the old Red Wings games. It was a huge crowd, and I think a lot of it was because the Knicks came up.”

The Knicks were led by future Hall of Famer Bernard King, a legitimate star at the time.

“I think Jordan outplayed King that night,” Jeff said. “It was a normal pre-season NBA game. The players were interacting with the fans behind the bench. All of the guys were very personable. They were asking me, ‘How’d you get this gig? Who do you know?’ They knew they were talking to a nine-year-old kid, and they made it fun.”

After the game, Dave Casey asked Chicago’s athletic trainer if he had anything that the players could sign as a keepsake for Jeff. 

“He said he didn’t with him, but told us when he got back to Chicago, he would have the players sign something and send it to me, and he did,” Jeff said. The vintage Bulls pennant is now framed.

A close up of Jeff Casey’s autographed pennant, with Michael Jordan’s signature in red at the top.

MJ finished with 21 points on 10-for-18 shooting. He tied the game in the final three minutes with a layup, and then hit a clutch jumper to give the Bulls the lead they would never relinquish.

In a recent Times Union story, reporter Mark Singlelais said Jordan told reporters after the game, “I don’t have to become a superstar. I want our team to become a winning basketball team.”

It seems he accomplished that goal, starting with a pre-season game in downtown Glens Falls!

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

Hometown News: May 13

This week in Hometown News, Gordon shares where the Glens Falls region stands on reopening, a county by county COVID round-up, the latest on Sgt. Arthur Coon’s recovery, and - you probably don’t want to hear what else is canceled - but we’ve got that too (and much more).

Glens Falls Region Awaits the Green Light to Reopen

As the North Country, Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley and Southern Tier prepare to gradually emerge from the statewide “COVID-19 pause” on Friday, Warren County waits with the other seven counties of the Capital Region to meet the data-driven benchmarks necessary to start reopening the economy.

Warren County meets all seven benchmarks individually, but will be lumped in with Albany, Schenectady, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Washington, Columbia and Greene Counties in the Capital Region in determining when the reopening process can start.

On Tuesday, Governor Cuomo announced that the Capital Region had met six of seven benchmarks, but in his Wednesday morning press briefing, he said they now meet five of seven.

Administrator Ryan Moore, who is in charge of compiling and analyzing the data for Warren County, hadn’t heard that news when we spoke to him early Wednesday afternoon.

“Well that’s a punch in the gut,” he said. “But Warren County is still seven for seven.”

He said he’ll know more after his daily 2 p.m. conference call with the Governor’s office.

The Capital Region has not yet met the benchmarks for 14-day decline in net hospitalizations or less than 15 new hospitalizations (3-day average) or for a 14-day decline in hospital deaths or fewer than five deaths (3-day average).

The process of reopening will be done in four phases, Gov. Cuomo says. Phase I includes the resumption of construction and manufacturing. Curbside-only retail, wholesale trade and agriculture, forestry and commercial fishing and hunting may also restart.

Each phase must be separated by at least 14 days, and will be monitored closely by county officials like Mr. Moore. When new benchmarks are reached, the next phase can begin.

Phase 2 includes professional services, finance and insurance, retail, administrative support, real estate, renting and leasing. Phase 3 includes restaurants and food service. And Phase 4 includes arts, entertainment, recreation and education.

You can check out the NYS regional monitoring dashboard here.

COVID-19, County by County

The novel coronavirus continues to dominate local news.

Warren County now has seen 26 residents die of COVID-19. Twenty of those deaths have been nursing home residents. Another four were residents of assisted living facilities. Three people remain hospitalized, six are in critical condition in the hospital or another facility. There have been 213 cases overall in Warren County. 134 residents have recovered, and there are 53 active cases.

Washington County has reported 13 deaths and 190 total cases since the pandemic began. 122 residents have recovered, with 57 cases still active.

Saratoga County reports 14 deaths, 318 residents currently in isolation or quarantine, 404 confirmed cases overall, and nine people hospitalized as of Wednesday.

NY State reports through May 12 that 11 residents of Glens Falls Center in Queensbury have died, with another five deaths presumed to be COVID-19 related. Ten residents of Fort Hudson in Fort Edward have died. Four residents of The Pines in Glens Falls have died, with two additional presumed cases.

At Great Meadow Correctional Facility in Fort Ann, the state reports that as of Monday at 3 p.m., a total of 33 inmates had been infected. That’s one more than the state reported Saturday. There are no tests pending, and eight inmates tested negative. Eighteen inmates have recovered, and seven are currently being treated. At Washington Correctional Facility across the street, there are no inmates currently infected. Two inmates tested negative earlier this month.

Outpouring of Love and Support for Sgt. Arthur Coon

Retired National Guard recruiter Sgt. Arthur P. Coon is recovering in Albany Medical Center from a stroke he suffered Monday morning.

Hannah Coon, the daughter of Sgt. Coon and his wife Julie, told Glens Falls Living Tuesday that “we are a lot more hopeful now. We’re very, very happy.”

She said her father had FaceTimed with them earlier in the day, acknowledging their commands and reacting to prompts. He was still ventilated at that point after undergoing surgery Monday afternoon to remove one of three blood clots.

Tuesday evening, the family posted another update on Facebook, writing, “We have some…updates tonight that we’re very optimistic about. We talked to my dad’s nurse and she said he was laughing at her jokes and smiling. She called back a short time later and my dad wanted to call us when asked.

“He is shockingly now breathing without the ventilator. He was able to say ‘hi’ but of course his throat isn’t the best right now from the vent. We don’t even have words, we’re completely shocked.”

Hannah said her father, who started the annual Christmas Eve March in Glens Falls, is “the healthiest person I know. He exercises two to three hours a day, he eats healthy. His family has a history of heart problems and strokes, and that is what he was trying to avoid.”

He tested negative for COVID-19, she said, and doctors are hoping the blood clot at the base of his brain will dissolve without surgery.

Because of hospital restrictions surrounding the COVID-19 virus, no one has been able to visit Sgt. Coon.

“That’s been really tough on my mom,” Hannah said. “We understand, but it’s hard. He takes care of her. It’s hard just being home waiting for a call.”

But they are buoyed by the support of family and friends.

“We know the impact he’s had on the community,” she said. “It’s so overwhelming. It’s crazy all of the people who are praying so hard for him. People are offering hotel rooms and rides to Albany. Someone in Massachusetts called and said he was coming up to mow my mom’s lawn.

“My dad is such a great person. The support is so overwhelming in a good way. I truly believe all the the thoughts and prayers have gotten him to where he is now.”

~ Grab the latest regarding Sgt. Coon’s status on Facebook by clicking here.

Some Noteworthy Facts and Figures from Warren County’s Partnership for Recovery Report

The EDC of Warren County and the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce coordinated a countywide effort called the Warren County Partnership for Recovery: Situation Report on COVID-19 and Recovery Needs. The report was released Tuesday.

Its executive summary says, “What is clear from this initial, baseline assessment is that significant recovery funding from the federal government is urgently needed. Without it, Warren County local governments and agencies, colleges and schools, public services, essential health care providers and private-sector businesses and community organizations will suffer steep and continuing economic losses. Some businesses and organizations will recover; others may cease to exist.”

In a 113-page report, several things jumped out at me. Among them:

“The Warren County Treasurer forecasts a decline in sales tax revenue approaching $10 million in the current calendar year. To mitigate these losses, the county is developing a plan to reduce current year expenses by $4 million to $5 million. This could require, among other things, a hiring freeze, staffing consolidations, mergers of county departments, postponement of collective bargaining negotiations, and salary and wage freezes for nonunion personnel.” 
“Warren County also stands to lose millions of dollars in state aid if Congress and the President fail to include substantial state and local government assistance in a stimulus bill. The New York State Association of Counties is warning that the state may be forced to reduce aid to local governments by 50 percent, a potential $8.7 million loss to Warren County. The result would be a dramatic loss of vital local services, massive property tax increases or a combination of the two.”

Glens Falls Hospital

“Glens Falls Hospital, the essential health care services provider and largest employer in the county, is facing major financial challenges. The hospital sustained a 2019 operating loss of $14.9 million, the result of insufficient federal and state reimbursements and overall declines in patient volume. It sustained operating losses in the first quarter of 2020 totaling nearly $11 million. 
“In March, New York State ordered all hospitals to develop plans for a surge of patients and to halt elective procedures to ensure there were sufficient beds for COVID-19 patients. As a result, Glens Falls Hospital sacrificed $27 million in revenue while investing $5 million in the required COVID-19 preparations. The financial pressures led to the furlough of more than 360 employees and reductions in salaries for administrators and physicians. Thus far, the assistance Glens Falls Hospital has received from the federal government totals $6 million.”

Hudson Headwaters

“The Hudson Headwaters Health Network, too, has experienced a significant drop in revenue as a result of the restrictions on non-emergent and elective medical procedures. During the week before the state of emergency was declared, Hudson Headwaters had 7,013 patient encounters at its 19 health centers, with only 29 percent of the appointment slots empty. In a recent week, HHHN had only 3,122 in-person patient encounters, and half of an already reduced number of appointment slots went unfilled.”

Tourism

“Tourism generates millions of dollars in sales and occupancy taxes that help fund Warren County government. The industry generates more than $600 million in direct spending annually and more than 9,000 jobs. Warren County lodging facilities sell 1 million room nights a year. 
“In 2019, the county’s 4 percent occupancy tax produced $4.8 million which, in turn, was invested in tourism promotion, marketing and events. The closely related second home, real estate, construction, cultural and retail sectors generate significant additional economic activity. 
“This year, tourism community leaders believe that visitor spending may be reduced by as much as 50 percent. Already, hotel occupancy appears to be down 75 percent from normal levels and the numbers of employees working in year-round operations have been reduced as much as 80 percent.”

Schools

“Warren County’s school districts also are planning for a possible return to traditional classroom instruction in the summer or fall, depending on direction from the state Education Department. Educators are addressing the special challenges of requiring face masks and enforcing social distancing and handwashing among children and acquiring sufficient PPE for teachers and staff. 
“Having been physically out of a classroom for months, students’ academic progress and needs have to be assessed. Students with special needs may need specific additional support as they return to school. 
“Deep cleaning and disinfecting schools and buses every day will cost more money. Schools are exploring options for continuing extracurricular and sports activities with social distancing. These activities are not only important to students’ development, but some students depend on sports, music and theater scholarships to attend college.”

Retail

“The impacts on the retail community have been significant. At Aviation Mall, only two businesses are open on a daily basis. April and May rent payments are down in excess of 80 percent and well short of the revenue required to pay operating costs, property taxes and debt service. Some bricks-and-mortar retailers are filing for bankruptcy. Some national estimates suggest 25 percent or more of small businesses will not be able to re-open following the pandemic.” 

The Arts

“Local arts, theater and cultural organizations, whose annual events attract thousands of local people and visitors, are in danger of having to cancel their seasons and forgo the financial support necessary to support their continued operation. The organizations have lost grant, ticket and sponsorship revenues, and some report a decline in charitable donations. Yet most still bear rent and other contractual expenses. Staff have been furloughed at several organizations. Some groups are reluctant to engage in detailed planning for future events until there is clear guidance on a date for reopening and social-distancing regulations that will need to be followed. "

Human Services

“The Salvation Army blew through its entire fiscal year 2020 food budget in 40 days,” according to EDC’s Ed Bartholomew and the ARCC’s Mike Bittel.

“Human service agencies are also considering how to reduce services to the vulnerable populations they serve. CWI has been informed of a 20 percent cut to its funding at a time when many of its services already were operating at a deficit.” 

You Probably Don’t Want to Hear What Else is Canceled, but…

The City of Glens Falls just released a slew of cancelations for the summer, which includes Kids Club Day Camp, the City Band Concert Series, the closure of Haviland’s Cove Beach, East Field Pool, basketball courts, playgrounds, and more. You can read the full list here.

GlobalFoundries Talking with Trump Administration about More Chip-Fab Plants

The Albany Times Union reports that GlobalFoundries is talking with federal officials about creating more high-tech computer chip fabrication plants around the country. The Wall Street Journal first reported the story Monday.

GlobalFoundries employs hundreds of workers from the Glens Falls region at its chip fab plant in Malta.

A company spokeswoman told the TU that GlobalFoundries was involved in discussions “on how to ensure technological leadership through U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturing.”

Could another plant be in the Capital Region?

Dennis Brobston, Saratoga Economic Development Corporation president, told the TU, “I’m very hopeful we’re going to be looked at.”

Andrew Kennedy, president and CEO of the Center for Economic Growth in Albany, said, “This region is ready. We have the sites. We have the workforce.”

And technology analyst Tim Dunn of Dunn Strategy Group in Malta was quoted, “We’re really well-positioned in New York.”

Ending on a High Note

Dr. Mike Shea of Queensbury is one of six Hudson Valley Community College recipients of the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence for 2020.

Dr. Shea, a full-time tenured professor in the Department of Biology, Chemistry and Physics, received the Excellence in Faculty Service Award. He primarily teaches microbiology, general and organic chemistry, and general biology.

A 1999 South Glens Falls High School graduate, Dr. Shea earned a bachelor of science degree from SUNY Geneseo, his master’s degree in cell/cellular and molecular biology from Hofstra University, and his Ph.D in microbial biochemistry from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

A press release from Hudson Valley Community College says “Michael Shea has been a faculty member at the college since 2010 and has been praised for his innovative and creative teaching, his service to students in the Science Study Center, and his willingness to take on leadership roles on campus. 

“He has led efforts to create ‘hands-on’ instructional materials for chemistry students and acts as his department’s coordinator for the first-level chemistry courses for non-majors.”

Dr. Shea and his wife, Erica Fitzgerald Shea, live in Queensbury with their daughter Jillian. He is in his seventh year on the Queensbury Union Free School District Board of Education.

Instituted in 1972 by the State University of New York, the Chancellor's Award recognizes exceptional contributions to the university by dedicated professionals. Recipients must show a markedly strong dedication to their work or scholarship. Since its inception, more than 180 faculty and staff members from Hudson Valley have received the Chancellor's Award.

Until next time -
Gordon

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!

Hometown News: May 6

The Impact of COVID-19 on Local Nursing Homes + Prisons, The Scoop on School Budgets (and Graduation Plans!), The Latest from Glens Falls Hospital, and More…

Coronavirus, Continued

The novel coronavirus continues to shape our days as we long for a return to “normal.” The curve is flattening statewide, but we’re still seeing an increase in positive cases and deaths here in the Glens Falls region.

The biggest concerns now are the devastating toll the virus continues to take on our nursing home residents and in our local prisons, where hundreds of local residents work.

The Impact on Local Nursing Homes…

Several local nursing homes, including Fort Hudson, the Glens Falls Center and the Pines, have suffered loss while their determined front-line workers care for residents under very difficult conditions. 

New York State released data on statewide nursing home deaths on Thursday, and shows the Glens Falls Center in Queensbury reported nine COVID-19 related deaths and four presumed COVID-19 deaths as of Wednesday. Fort Hudson in Fort Edward reported eight COVID-19 related deaths, and The Pines in Glens Falls had three confirmed deaths and one presumed death as of Wednesday. 

Statewide, 5,020 people have died in the state's nursing homes and assisted living facilities since March 1, according to statistics released by Governor Andrew Cuomo's office. This total includes confirmed COVID-19 cases and presumed COVID-19 cases. 

…and on our Prisons

The number of infected inmates continues to rise at Great Meadow Correctional Facility, the maximum security prison in Fort Ann. As of Wednesday, 31 inmates had tested positive for COVID-19, with two tests pending. Only five other facilities in the state have higher infection totals than Great Meadow. The total number of inmates infected at Great Meadow jumped 41% from April 30 to May 6, from 22 to 31. 

At Washington Correctional Facility, the medium security prison across the street from Great Meadow, the state said Tuesday that two inmates who had been tested do not have the virus. That’s great news. There remain no confirmed cases among inmates at Washington.

As for staff, NYS Corrections only releases statewide numbers. On Wednesday, the state said 1,143 staff across the state had the novel coronavirus, and four staff had died. Statewide, 15 inmates have died. 

COVID-19, County by County

There were four more COVID-19 related deaths in Warren County reported Wednesday. All four were nursing home residents. No additional deaths were reported Thursday. Total county deaths remain at 23. Seventeen deaths have been nursing home residents. Total cumulative number of cases remains 185.

As of Thursday, Saratoga County had 370 total confirmed cases of COVID-19, eight people hospitalized and 14 deaths. County health officials report two new cases Thursday. The good news is the numbers in Saratoga County appear to be leveling off.

In Washington County, no new deaths were reported Wednesday or Thursday. Ten people have died from COVID-19 since the outbreak began. On Thursday, eight more confirmed cases were reported by county officials, and that total remains at 174. There are 72 active cases. Nine more people recovered as of Thursday, bringing that total to 92.

The Scoop on School Budgets

School district officials are stuck in limbo as they try to craft a budget for next year and look to the following year as well. Governor Cuomo has mandated that all upcoming school board elections and school budget votes be held by mail ballot only on Tuesday, June 9, which throws another substantial wrinkle into the turbulent coming weeks.

“The first order of business is helping our 31 school districts in the Washington-Saratoga-Warren-Hamilton-Essex BOCES understand their budgets for 2020-21,” district superintendent Jim Dexter told Glens Falls Living. “How do they adopt a budget if they don’t have the data from the state regarding state aid?”

Governor Cuomo has said school districts can expect a reduction of state aid up to 20%, with state aid adjusted and partially made up by $10-billion in anticipated federal aid.

“The poorer districts would see more of a cut, and the more wealthy districts would see less of a cut because they generally get less state aid because of their higher property tax base,” Mr. Dexter said. “Some of the poorer districts receive up to 70% of their budget through state aid. More wealthy districts won’t be affected as much, but the cuts could be catastrophic for some local districts.

“And don’t forget, the federal CARES money goes away next year, so it’s not just now, it’s looking into next year and thinking about, ‘What’s our two-year plan?’ It’s a little nervewracking.”

School districts that have a sizable fund balance will be able to temper the reductions to maintain services, but not all districts have huge fund balances they can tap, Mr. Dexter said.

Along with creating a budget and school boards passing those budgets so they can have residents vote on them, the issue of the mail balloting looms large.

“That’s the first order of business right now,” he said. “For example, I have people trying to find envelopes right now. You need outer envelopes to send the ballots and inner envelopes so residents can return them.”

The Latest from Glens Falls City Schools - and What about Graduation?

Glens Falls City School Superintendent Paul Jenkins said the Governor’s office has told school officials that they will release more information on state aid on May 15th. 

“Then we will have a board of education meeting on May 18th and officially adopt a budget,” he said in a Zoom interview with Glens Falls Living Monday. “We’re anticipating reduction in state aid may be an issue, but there are some answers we just don’t have, unfortunately.”

The early projections indicate Glens Falls could actually see an increase in state aid, from $19.972-million in 2019-20 to $20.420-million next year. But those numbers could change on May 15th.

“We will have to adjust,” Mr. Jenkins said. “We don’t want to cut programs, and on top of that, we don’t know what next year will bring in terms of making major changes in what we do. I can’t see us cutting staff when we’re looking at smaller class sizes and more monitoring of students. I can’t see us reducing staff. We will just be utilizing staff in a different way.”

What will graduation look like?

“We are reviewing a couple of scenarios right now,” he said. “There will be a ceremony in some form.”

What about holding graduation at a local drive-in movie theater, as some have suggested?

“That is one of our thoughts,” Mr. Jenkins said. “A lot of people have mentioned that. But the issue is, what are the restrictions going to be in mid to late June? Having a large gathering like that could be an issue, and it could be very difficult to control.

“So the questions of how do we actually get students their diplomas and where it will be is evolving.”

Mr. Jenkins said the pandemic is prompting larger questions.

“We are taking a very different look at education and how we do things like professional development, how we present information to students, how we grade them,” he said. “There is talk about having split school sessions, with some students coming in one day and others staying home. How do we handle the students not there?”

Are there silver linings?

“I’m communicating a lot more with other superintendents,” he said. “I have a great administrative staff, and everyone from the board members to the teachers to the staff has been amazing. I’ve seen a lot more personal support, both internal and external, for teachers and staff than ever before. 

“We are all very concerned about the families and the parents, and this has been hard on our own staff. Many of our teachers have kids at home, and are working with their own kids while also teaching their students remotely.”

Mr. Jenkins said right before schools were closed in mid-March, he upgraded his internet capacity at home.

“If I hadn’t done that, I would have been in trouble,” he said. “But a lot of families don’t have internet access, or don’t have the speed to do remote learning.”

At South High: Buildings are Closed but School is Open

South Glens Falls School Superintendent Kristine Orr, in an email interview, said they are putting together a budget but “we have discussed no student programs at this time. If cuts ever have to be made, we look at cutting through attrition first if possible. 

“At this point, we are continuing our continuity of learning, giving food to our families in need and providing child care.  Supporting our families through this time is first on our mind. I am working with the administrators to review all end of the year traditions and we will set a plan on all of those now that we know school is closed. Graduation will happen. We have several scenarios that we are reviewing and will let families know what it will look like soon. 

“As educators, we thrive being around children and watching them grow every day,” Ms. Orr said. “Seeing everyone over the screen helps, but human contact is just as important.

“As a leader, communication to staff, students, and families is essential. I write to the staff almost daily in some way. We continue to update our webpage and I have sent several videos to our families. 

“It is important as a leader to take this one day at a time and to lead with empathy and compassion. Regardless of any situation, all families are feeling lost in some way and it is important to recognize that and support them anyway we can. Our entire staff has been there for our families in many ways.  

“We will continue to work with students until the end of the year and help them process this. Our buildings may be closed but our schools are open and we will continue to work hard to keep our students engaged in learning.  

“As a BOCES, the 31 superintendents led by Jim Dexter meet several times a week to review all important topics. We will be talking about what reopening schools looks like as a group and adjusting our needs based on the makeup of the school.”

GFH Stands Ready for a Surge - If It’s Coming

At Glens Falls Hospital, “We are waiting for the surge, if a surge is coming,” said Dr. Sean Bain, president of the medical staff. “We’ve been lucky so far. We haven’t gotten as many cases as we thought we might.” 

Dr. Bain, a South Glens Falls native, said “It’s been stable. We haven’t seen a big spike. We’ve actually seen a decrease in the last week or two, from seven to nine patients to six or seven now.”

He said the hospital has yet to receive patients from Great Meadow. That could change, he said, as Glens Falls is the closest hospital to the prison, even though the state contracts with Albany Medical Center.

What is he expecting in the next week?

“I don’t know that we know yet,” he said. “The nursing homes and prisons are just starting, and I don’t know if we’ve reached a peak yet. I just don’t know.”

He said because this area is less congested than other larger cities, and because we started social distancing here early, the hospital hasn’t seen the surge of COVID-19 patients it expected.

“But we are prepared for a surge if it does happen,” he said. “We could staff up to 200 beds.”

Staff morale “has calmed down. There was a lot of anxiety in the beginning, with so many changes. But over the last two weeks, we’ve settled into a groove and things have calmed down.”

As of Thursday afternoon, Glens Falls Hospital has received permission from the state to resume elective outpatient surgeries and procedures while keeping their plan in place for any potential COVID-19 surges that may develop. Further details are available on their website here.

Testing, 1-2-3

Warren County, in concert with Glens Falls Hospital, continues to operate a drive-up COVID-19 testing facility at the County Municipal Center on Route 9 in Queensbury. The testing site is open to residents of Warren, Washington, Saratoga, Essex and Hamilton counties, and is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Anyone who believes they should have a test needs to contact a doctor or urgent care center to have it arranged.  Warren County Health Services can be reached at 518-761-6580 for any questions.

In the meantime, some important links: Centers for Disease Control, NYS Department of Health, Warren County Health Services.

Ending on a High Note

The Glens Falls Police Department shared this on social media on Wednesday, and we wanted to share it with you!

“On April 25th, 2020, Police Officer Thomas Pratt responded to a report of a 19-month-old child that was not conscious, alert or breathing.

“Upon arriving at the scene, Officer Pratt made a quick assessment of the situation and the child’s condition and proceeded to administer life saving assistance. 

“Officer Pratt was able to clear a large obstruction from the child’s airway and breathing was restored. His quick alert actions, (and) ability to assess the situation and act swiftly during a highly stressful time, resulted in saving the child’s life. 

“His actions on that day are not only appreciated by the City of Glens Falls Police Department but also by the child’s family.

“Officer Pratt was awarded the Life Saving Award by Police Chief Anthony Lydon at a ceremony at the Glens Falls Police Department on May 5th, 2020.

“Thank you for your dedication to the Glens Falls Police Department as well to the City of Glens Falls. Congratulations on a well-deserved award. The department is proud of your accomplishment.”

Until next time -
Gordon

GORDON WOODWORTH

A South Glens Falls native, Gordon Woodworth is a respected and well-connected voice of the community. As a journalist, he has covered the Glens Falls region for more than 20 years. Read his full bio here, and click here to follow along with him on Facebook - he’s always reporting!