Dave Lucas

2 weeks ago | wamc.org | Dave Lucas

A new law passed unanimously by the Albany Common Council is aimed at alleviating citywide staffing shortages. 15th ward councilor Tom Hoey says Local Law L will allow the city for the next three years to hire employees from neighboring municipalities and bordering counties for classified and non-classified jobs, including police and firefighters. "The only thing that is exempted is department heads.

2 weeks ago | wamc.org | Dave Lucas

Albany high-schoolers marked Arbor Day by taking part in city and state efforts to plant more trees.  Mayor Kathy Sheehan joined officials with the state Department of Environmental Conservation and grade school students at Albany School of Humanities for a planting event. Sheehan says Albany has been ahead of the curve with its successful 2500 trees by 2025 program.  "We're here because of the volunteers the folks that are really passionate about trees," said Sheehan.

2 weeks ago | wamc.org | Dave Lucas

A long-time economic, environmental and social justice advocate has entered the race for the Third Ward seat on Albany's Common Council. Dan Plaat currently chairs the Albany County Green Party. He's running for the seat currently held by Democrat Joyce Love, who has decided not to seek a third term. The third ward runs from Ontario to North Pearl Street, bordered mostly by Central and Washington Avenues on its southwestern side and First Street from northwest to southeast.

3 weeks ago | wamc.org | Dave Lucas

The "State of the Air" across the cities of Albany and Schenectady is "unhealthy." That’s according to new data presented in the American Lung Association's 2025 report.  Since 2000, the American Lung Association has evaluated data from air quality monitors to put together its “State of the Air” report, handing out grades based on levels of ozone, year-round particle pollution, and short-term particle pollution.

3 weeks ago | wamc.org | Dave Lucas

Albany mayoral candidates weighed in on environmental concerns Tuesday at a forum hosted by WAMC and the New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund.  The Environmental Candidate Forum was held at The Linda, WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio. The Earth Day event included the Democratic candidates appearing on the June 24th primary ballot. The candidates are running to succeed Mayor Kathy Sheehan, who is wrapping up her third four-year term.