Cornell Cooperative Extension outlines local programs, notes dip in Greene County store sales tax revenue

Lisa, representing Cornell Cooperative Extension, told the Greene County Legislature on May 6 that Extension programming this season will include youth and nutrition outreach, farm and culinary curricula tied to the Hunter Foundation groundbreaking, and expanded efforts to recruit 10–15 new local producers for the county’s 'Made in Greene' retail outlet. "Our goal this year is to bring in at least 10 to 15 new Greene County producers," Lisa said.

She noted fiscal headwinds for the store and county revenue, citing a sales tax reduction of $13,462.78 attributed to a drop in tourists and increased retail competition from a new store about 20 miles south. Extension staff said they are working to add products, hire staff and continue education programs, including SNAP-ED offerings that received final short-term funding for summer nutrition classes.

Extension described partnerships with local educators and a plan for tented summer talks and forest walks at a county property donated by local residents; staff asked legislators to share contacts for producers and sites. The report also listed upcoming events (youth fair, Maplefest planning) and new local initiatives such as a beekeeping club and a 3D archery installation funded by local grants.

During Q&A, staff described available tick‑borne illness literature, partnerships for autism‑supportive business trainings (Anderson Center) and encouraged officials to use existing materials and contacts from neighboring counties to scale sensory‑friendly offerings and fair programming.