Southern Tier Competes for Development Funds

The Southern Tier Regional Economic Development Council is putting together its latest development plans in the hopes of landing a portion of $1.5 billion in New York State economic aid.

The local group met with Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul at Binghamton University to review last week’s State of the State address and the Upstate Revitalization competition.

Seven regions are competing for a chance at $500 million that will be awarded to each of the three winners.

Local leaders said they planned to draw on the region’s agriculture, health care, high technology innovation and education as the latest proposal is drawn up.

State Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo of Endwell says she would be happier if all seven regions up for funding would get money.  The Democrat says she’s not sold on just three out of the seven being awarded aid.