Public safety committee approves coroner access to Statewide Health Information Network, grant, contracts and new narcotics task force

The Saratoga County Public Safety Committee on July 1 approved a series of resolutions that included a memorandum of understanding to let the coroner’s office consult patient medical histories through the Statewide Health Information Network, acceptance of a New York State EMPG grant, renewal of cybersecurity support, and establishment of a countywide narcotics task force.

Committee members voted to approve a memorandum of understanding presented by a representative of the coroner’s office that would allow limited, auditable access to what the speaker referred to during the meeting as the Statewide Health Information Network (referred to in the meeting as “HCSCANY”/“HCSCME”). The presenter said access would be restricted — only an elected coroner or an authorized physician would review records for determinations about whether an autopsy is needed. “This also could save the county money where we could get a sign off as opposed to an autopsy when we don't have any information,” the presenter said.

Supervisor Andre presented a resolution to accept a FY2025 Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) from the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services in the amount of $78,617, with a performance period the presenter listed as Oct. 1, 2024, through Sept. 30, 2027. Committee members confirmed the dates and advanced the acceptance.

The committee also approved a departmental contract correction asking the chairman to execute an agreement with Bishop House Consulting for training, which the requester said corrects an omission from an April grant request. Separately, the committee renewed a maintenance agreement with Critical Partners LLC for cyber-intrusion protection and the GPC platform that supports the county’s PSAP (9-1-1 center).

Members approved a resolution to appropriate $178,869 to address additional hiring and emergency/operational equipment needs for the sheriff’s office and the Office of Emergency Management. One committee member asked whether those additions are being incorporated into next year’s budget process; another member said the request had been vetted by the law and finance subcommittee and county administration.

The sheriff’s office requested and the committee approved a memorandum of understanding to create the Saratoga County Trafficking, Police of Narcotics, and Gang Enforcement Task Force (STING), a countywide unit to be operated by the sheriff in conjunction with the district attorney’s office and local police departments.

All motions passed by voice vote during the committee meeting. The meeting adjourned after a brief period for other business.