State honors Sheriff Yessman at meeting

SCHUYLER COUNTY--At the Schuyler County Legislature meeting Monday, Dec. 12, legislators welcomed Assemblyman Phil Palmesano for a special presentation. Palmesano presented former Sheriff William Yessman, Jr. with a proclamation in recognition of his service and dedication to Schuyler County. Yessman, who received a standing ovation during the presentation, served the community for 36 years, being promoted to positions with more responsibility until ultimately being elected Sheriff in 2006.
"Congratulations, thank you, and enjoy your retirement," Palmesano said, also speaking on behalf of Senator Tom O'Mara who was unable to attend the meeting. "Your impact on Schuyler County will be felt for many years."
During the meeting, legislators also reviewed a letter to be sent to Senator Tom O'Mara regarding "a grave concern over a proposed change to New York State District Law" relative to the soil and water conservation districts. Proposed by an entity known as the New York State Watershed Healthy Coalition, legislators indicated that the change would impact funding for the district and add additional board members to the districts that are "the only agency with the ability to bring together municipal efforts, private businesses, local non-farming land owners, and the farming community."
"This is one of the most efficient and smoothly run bodies that I've seen in government," said Legislative Chair Carl Blowers, who agreed to sign the letter on behalf of the legislature after the county's lawyer reviews it. "I would hate to see it become political."
In other news, County Administrator Fonda Chronis provided an update on the forthcoming new ambulance service to be provided by Cayuga Health Systems and to be known as Cayuga Health Transport. Three ambulances have passed inspection and been certified. All insurances have been obtained by Cayuga Health Transport. "Staffing is in strong shape," and operationally, Cayuga Health Transport is ready. Chronis also added that the "rent and insurance costs are higher than expected although within a tolerable range."
The location for the ambulance in Watkins Glen is now expected to be at the Chemung-Schuyler ARC facility, a change from the original plan. The purchase of a fourth ambulance fell through, but staff were able to source a new ambulance that cost less than originally expected.
"The revenue is more complicated," said Chronis. "We need a medicare number before we can move forward with contracts with private insurance companies that determine assigned payments."
Chronis has been told that obtaining this number, which is also necessary for the Medicaid contract, may take up to 90 days. Until this number is received and contracts secured with private insurance companies, those who have private insurance would be billed at out-of-network rates for use of the ambulance. Legislators discussed suggestions that could be offered to Cayuga Health Systems, one of which included postponing the start date. Currently, service is expected to begin on Jan. 1, 2023.
Legislator Mark Rondinaro was adamant that the service should not start until billing at in-network rates is possible.