▼

Buildings & Grounds

Show All Answers

1. Who do I contact for complaints, building inspections, code enforcement, highway / road problems, tax assessor, or other issues?

That would depend on what municipality you live in. View the County, Town, and Village Directory to view the information on your municipality. If you are unsure which town you live in, visit the map section to the town you reside in by the road you live on. County, Town, and Village Directory

2. Is there a dump or transfer station in Schuyler County?

For Recycling and Solid Waste Department questions call Kristin VanHorn at (607) 535-8211.

▼

Community Services

Show All Answers

1. What services do you provide?

Services include psychotherapy and counseling for families, couples, parents, children and groups; case management for children and adults; CHANGE Group - a domestic violence program; psychiatric services for children and adults; psychological testing for children and adults; and crisis intervention services during regular business hours.

2. Can I still come if I don't have insurance?

Yes, we can make arrangements for services.

▼

County Attorney

Show All Answers

1. Can the county attorney's office give advice to the general public or represent them?

No. The county attorney is the legal advisor only to the county legislature and every officer whose compensation is paid from county funds in all matters involving an official act of a civil nature. Individuals seeking legal advice should contact private counsel, through the New York State Bar Association, the Schuyler County Bar Association or other legal referral service of their own choosing.

2. Does the County Attorney's Office accept service by electronic means?

No. The County Attorneys' Office does not accept service by email, fax or other electronic methods.

▼

County Clerk

Show All Answers

1. Do you issue passports?

Yes, we take the appropriate photos and assist with the application that needs to be sent in to the state.

2. Do you issue hunting & fishing licenses?

Yes, if it has been a number of years since being licensed, applicant would need proof of training or previous issued license.

▼

County Clerk - EZ Pass

Show All Answers

1. How do I put more money on the tag after I use the initial $25?

When you register your tag, you will be prompted to select either an automatic credit card, check, or cash replenishment.

▼

Department of Motor Vehicles

Show All Answers

1. What is an enhanced driver’s license?

A license that allows you to cross the border via land or sea into Canada and Mexico. An original birth certificate and social security card and two proofs of your residence are required.

▼

District Attorney

Show All Answers

1. How do I get a reduction for a traffic offense?

Contact the District Attorney's Office at (607) 535-8383 and request a reduction affidavit form. It will be sent to you immediately. Fill out the form and return it and a reduction will be considered.

2. The perpetrator was ordered to pay me restitution. Why am I not receiving it?

Many defendants are ordered to pay restitution to their victims. Restitution is generally paid to the probation department in installments. The probation department may then hold the funds until there is a sufficient amount to send to the victim. If you are not receiving court ordered restitution, you may contact the probation department at (607) 535-8165 or the District Attorney's Office at 607) 535-8383.

▼

Emergency Management

Show All Answers

1. How do I request a fire/house number?

To obtain a fire/house number number, the structure must be staked out or completed. Then, complete the House Number Request Form

2. How do I obtain a File of Life?

Schuyler County seniors over age 60 or anyone with medical conditions or disabilities, even children, can receive a FREE File of Life packet by calling the Emergency Management Office at 607-535-8200. File of Life are also available to seniors at the Schuyler County Office for the Aging.

▼

Highway Department

Show All Answers

1. Do you know where I can get a Schuyler County map?

County maps are available to purchase for $2.50 per map at the County Highway Department. If you would like to have a map mailed to you, please make check payable to “Schuyler County Treasurer” and mail to:
910 S. Decatur St.
Watkins Glen, NY 14891

2. There is a dead animal on my road! Who do I call?

The dead animal removal encompasses only animals that obstruct traffic and are a hazard to the motoring public. For example, a dead deer in the center of a lane would be removed; a dead skunk in the center of the lane would not.
To report a dead deer, please call the following:
County Highways – (607) 535-2531
State Highways – (607) 535-4992
Town Roads – Please call the Town Highway Department involved.
Note: The County Highway Department will have dead deer picked up, in the County right-of-way (typically 25’ from the centerline of the road), on County Roads only (see roads listed on “County Roads” link).

3. The plow damaged my mailbox! Will you replace it?

Only in very limited circumstances (in italics). If your mailbox is in the right-of-way, is in the way of the wing, or side blade of a snowplow, the wet heavy snow thrown from the wing can easily damage a mailbox. Make sure your mailbox is at least 18" from the edge of the shoulder, has a minimum clearance of 42" above the shoulder, and the front doesn't extend beyond the edge of the shoulder. Schuyler County will consider replacing a mailbox if driver error clearly caused the damage to the mailbox assembly.

▼

Legislature

Show All Answers

1. How do I get a copy of the County, Town, and Village Directory?

This directory is not printed any longer. View it online.

2. Where do I find a copy of the meeting agendas?

You may visit: Legislative Meeting Agendas

▼

Office For The Aging

Show All Answers

1. Where do I go to pick up my mask, gloves & hand sanitizer?

Please call 607-535-7108 to request masks, gloves and refillable hand sanitizer bottles & refills and we will prepare it for you, marked with your name to pick up from the deputies at the front desk in the Human Services Building located at 323 Owego St., Montour Falls.  

2. How do I keep track of my mileage reimbursement?

OFA will provide a mileage sheet with instructions for completion and submission available at the Human Services building or via email.

▼

Office For The Aging-Volunteers

Show All Answers

1. Why is there a vetting process to volunteer with OFA?

Older adults are a vulnerable population and all volunteers go through the process which includes a volunteer application, criminal background check, motor vehicle record check, reference check, phone interview and approval from both the Director and County Administrator.

2. How do I keep track of mileage to be reimbursed

OFA will provide a mileage sheet with instructions for completion and submission available at the Human Services building or via email.

3. How many hours do I need to commit to volunteering?

We can set up a volunteer schedule that works for you. Whether that be once a week, once a month or as needed, just mention your preferences when you complete the volunteer application.

4. How long does it take to volunteer?

It depends on the position. Some positions have a set weekly schedule and others are flexible and based on your availability. Contact the Volunteer Coordinator for more detailed information.

5. How long does it take to be approved to volunteer?

It typically takes about 1-2 weeks to review the application, provide a motor vehicle records check, criminal background check, reference check, phone interview and get final approval from the Director of Office for the Aging and the County Administrator.

6. How do I sign up?

Call Schuyler County Office for the Aging at 607-535-7108 to request a volunteer application, or email kpound@co.schuyler.ny.us. The volunteer application can either printed and mailed or emailed.

7. What if I don't live in Schuyler County?

We accept volunteers from outside of Schuyler County. Snowbirds are welcome too!

8. When do I start training?

Once OFA receives your completed volunteer application, they will review it and an OFA staff member will reach out to you when we have an open position and set up training.

9. Will I always volunteer with the same clients?

Not always. While we do try to keep it consistent, it’s not guaranteed.

10. Do I need a vehicle?

It depends on the position, for any transportation related positions you would be required to use your own vehicle.

11. Are face masks, gloves and hand sanitizer provided?

Yes! Please call 607-535-7108 to request masks, gloves and refillable hand sanitizer bottles & refills and we will prepare it for you, marked with your name to pick up from the deputies at the front desk in the Human Services Building located at 323 Owego St., Montour Falls.

12. Is there mileage reimbursement available?

Yes! There is mileage reimbursement available. OFA will provide a mileage sheet with instructions for completion and submission available.

▼

Planning-Ag District

Show All Answers

1. Where do I find the answers to my Ag District questions?

Frequently asked questions may be found here: http://www.schuylercounty.us/DocumentCenter/View/2574 Frequently asked questions

▼

Probation

Show All Answers

1. What is probation supervision?

Probation supervision is an alternative to incarceration for criminal behavior in the criminal court system or punishment for unacceptable behavior in family court that influences law abiding behavior while allowing the probationer to continue to reside and function in the community.

2. How does probation supervision influence law abiding behavior?

Probation supervision influences law abiding behavior by requiring a probationer to abide by court ordered terms and conditions that restrict a probationer’s behavior and often includes certain treatment requirements.

3. What are some probation terms and conditions?

A probation sentence may include specific supervision terms for probationers such as attending substance abuse treatment, Drug Treatment Court, mental health counseling, sex offender treatment, refraining from entering a bar, submitting to drug or alcohol tests, drivers license restrictions, curfews, community service and paying restitution among other terms as needed. Please see our Terms and Conditions in the Court/Client Forms. Court/Client Forms

4. What are some benefits to defendants on probation supervision?

The obvious benefit to probation supervision is that a person can be held accountable for a crime or poor behavior, and still be able to function within the community without the restrictions of incarceration or detention. Unlike a straight incarceration term or detention, a person placed on probation can continue their employment, take care of their family, earn money to pay restitution, they can attend treatment programs and attend school or college, all while they are monitored by a probation officer and restricted to law abiding behavior.

5. What are some benefits of probation supervision to the community?

Probation supervision lightens the jail population by allowing people to be under supervision instead of locked up in jail. Although a probation sentence can be coupled with a jail term, if all of the current probationers in New York State were placed in jail at this very second, it would add 125,000 people into our already overcrowded local and state correctional system. Another benefit is cost. It costs about $80 a day to incarcerate an individual. It costs less than $6 a day for Schuyler County Probation to supervise a probationer. Probation creates a major savings to the County and State.
See our Performance Based Budget for more beneficial information.

6. How does someone get placed on probation supervision?

There are generally two ways someone can be placed under probation supervision, either through a criminal court sentence or family court order.

In Criminal Court- A person must be charged with a crime. The court will order an informational investigation to be completed by probation. See investigations under General Services. If there is a conviction and it is appropriate, a sentence of probation supervision can be issued by the court. If required or appropriate and there is an adjudication as a youthful offender, a disposition ordering probation supervision can be issued.

In Family Court- A respondent must be found to be a Juvenile Delinquent or Person In Need of Supervision. Refer to our JD and PINS section under General Services. A Pre-Dispositional Investigation is ordered, and if appropriate, the respondent is ordered to probation.
General Services

7. How does Probation Supervision work?

After receiving a court order placing a person on probation, a probation officer is assigned to the case. In Schuyler County, it is usually the same officer that conducted the investigation on the individual. The officer will then contact the probationer and set up an intake appointment. The officer will review what is expected from the probationer as outlined in the court ordered supervision terms, as well as any required office visits, home visits and collateral contacts.

8. What are office visits, home visits and collateral contacts?

These are ways that a probation officer keeps in touch with a probationer and checks up on how they are complying with their terms and conditions. We keep in constant contact with our probationers. They are placed in a supervision level, 1, 2 or 3 and that determines how often they must report to our office to check with their officer. It also determines how often we perform home visits and how many collateral contacts we conduct.

9. What do you do during office visits, home visits and collateral contacts?

Office visits are required to keep in contact with our probationers. A probationer’s address and phone number are typically always verified, standard information is exchanged during office visits such as how the probationer is doing in treatment, at school or work. If problems occur, longer meetings take place to discuss them. Home visits happen less often but are also required in Schuyler County. An officer may visit a probationer’s home at any time they feel it is appropriate. An officer has the authority, per a court order, to verify a probationer’s residence and search their property or person to determine their compliance with their terms. Collateral contacts are when an officer talks with a person affiliated with the probationer. This can be a treatment provider, parent, teacher, employer, police officer, anyone who may have contact with the probationer. All of these functions are performed to make sure the probationer is complying with their terms and conditions as ordered by the court.

10. Is probation supervision the same as parole?

Probation is similar to parole in that there is a supervising officer whom watches over an individual to make sure they are abiding by a set of specific conditions. However, probation supervision is a sentence or sanction ordered by the court for a crime or behavior. Someone on parole has actually been sentenced to a state prison term. Parole supervision may be granted for an inmate to be released from incarceration but allows them to remain under the supervision of a parole officer while they complete their sentence and transitioning back into the community.

11. What can I find out about someone on probation supervision?

Although our department is not bound by the same confidentiality as a medical treatment provider, we still respect the confidentiality of our probationers. Our Officers will not release personal information to anyone about a probationer unless it is related to accomplishing compliance with their sentence requirements. However, our officers can take any information to assist them in supervising our probationers and investigate any tips to discover if a probation violation can be discovered or verified. Contact us at (607)535-8165 or scprobation@co.schuyler.ny.us with any information regarding a current probationer.

12. What is a violation of Probation?

A Violation of Probation is when a probationer does not follow his court ordered terms and conditions.

13. What happens during a violation of probation?

After a probationer has broken a court ordered condition, the supervising probation officer has several options. They may discuss the infraction with the probationer. If the infraction is small and happened once, then the officer may simply discuss the issue with the probationer and pay close attention to the problem making sure it does not happen again. If the infraction is a serious one, or a small but frequent problem, then the officer may file a written notice of violation to the court with a recommendation on what to do with the probationer.

14. What types of recommendations can be made for a violation of probation?

A probation officer must always include a recommendation as to the disposition of a case when filing a violation. The officer should be very familiar with the case and should have the best knowledge on what outcome would be most beneficial in a violation. Recommendations could include reengaging in a treatment program, a short term of incarceration with probation continued, community service, and even revocation of probation supervision followed by a new sentence of incarceration.

15. What are typical lengths of probation supervision?

The typical terms for probation are 3 years supervision for a misdemeanor, 5 years probation for a felony, 6 years probation for a misdemeanor sex offense and 10 years probation for a felony sex offense.

16. Can a person be released from probation supervision early?

Yes. The court holding jurisdiction is the only authority that can grant an early discharge from probation supervision. The policy of Schuyler County Probation is that a probationer must serve at a minimum, one half of their term of probation and be in good standing with their court orders before an early discharge can be recommended from a probation officer to the court.

17. Are probation officers the same as police officers?

No, police and probation officers are different. Police Officers have authority over a population of people that are within a geographical jurisdiction, usually a township, county or state. Police enforce all laws, and are required to act when a law is broken on and off duty. A probation officer is defined as a peace officer under Criminal Procedure Law 2.10. Probation officers have authority over people that are ordered to probation supervision. Probation officers enforce very specific laws and probation orders over their probationers and are not required to immediately act if a probation term is broken when off duty.

18. What type of powers or authority do probation officers have?

Probation Officers powers are defined under Criminal Procedural Law 2.20, powers of arrest can be found in CPL 140.25, searches under CPL 410.50 and use of physical force and deadly physical force under Penal Law article 35.30.

▼

Public Defender

Show All Answers

1. What matters are attorneys assigned to represent clients on?

The Schuyler County Public Defender may represent clients on:

• Penal law violations
  
• Misdemeanors
  
• Felonies
  
• Parole hearings
  
• SORA hearings
  
• Most custody / visitation matters
  
• Neglect
  
• Support violations

2. How do I get a public defender or court appointed attorney?

Applications are available in the Public Defender's Office, on-line, and at any Town/ Village Court.

▼

Public Health

Show All Answers

1. How do I dispose of used syringes?

Millions of people use needles, syringes, and lancets at home to care for their health. These needles, syringes, and lancets are called sharps. Safe disposal of used sharps is critically important for the health and safety of people and the environment. When these sharps come from places other than health care settings—such as individual residences and non-health-related facilities—there are specific considerations and challenges. Fortunately, New York has special programs designed to address them. Used household sharps must be stored safely and disposed of properly to protect people from diseases. Once they are stored properly (click link below) used sharps may be taken to any hospital or nursing home for disposal.
Click for more information.

2. How do I get a replacement Rabies Certificate?

We are happy to provide you with a copy of a rabies certificate issued at one of our clinics. There is a 5 dollar fee ($5) for each new copy provided. Contact (607) 535-8140, option 8 and the receptionist will help you.

3. When is the next Rabies Clinic?

Click the link for the current schedule. Clinic Schedule

4. How do I get a food permit?

Permits for Schuyler County are issued by the Hornell District Office. They can be reached at 607-324-8371. Regulations & Permit Requirements

5. How do I remove a tick?

If you find a tick attached to your skin, there's no need to panic. There are several tick removal devices on the market, but a plain set of fine-tipped tweezers is recommended.

Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible.

Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don't twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin. If this happens, remove the mouth-parts with tweezers. If you are unable to remove the mouth easily with clean tweezers, leave it alone and let the skin heal.

After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.

Dispose of a live tick by submersing it in alcohol, placing it in a sealed bag/container, wrapping it tightly in tape, or flushing it down the toilet. Never crush a tick with your fingers.

Avoid folklore remedies such as "painting" the tick with nail polish or petroleum jelly, or using heat to make the tick detach from the skin. Your goal is to remove the tick as quickly as possible--not waiting for it to detach.

If you develop a rash or fever within several weeks of removing a tick, see your doctor. Be sure to tell the doctor about your recent tick bite, when the bite occurred, and where you most likely acquired the tick.
Watch this video to see how to remove a tick.

6. I want to submit a message for the LED sign - how do I submit a request?

Requests should be submitted using the link below.
Remember, messages should be kept as brief as possible to ensure they are legible on the sign. Requests should be made 14 days prior to the anticipated need. The County reserves the right to refuse, alter, or limit the length of time any message runs. In case of an Emergency occurrence, all messages may be cancelled. Click here for online form.

▼

Purchasing

Show All Answers

1. How do I request a FOIL report?

Download the FOIL Request Form.

▼

Real Property Tax Office

Show All Answers

1. Do I have to apply for STAR every year?

The Basic STAR exemption requires only one application. However, taxpayers over 65 years of age who qualify for the Enhanced STAR exemption must renew annually unless they participate in the Income Verification Program. In addition, the 2016-17 New York State budget makes provision for transitioning the STAR program from a property tax exemption to a Personal Income Tax Credit. Therefore, no new STAR exemptions will be granted in New York State. STAR Exemption News

▼

Records Management

Show All Answers

1. Where can I get my birth certificate?

To obtain a Birth Certificate, you must contact the town in which you were born.  If you were born at Schuyler Hospital, contact Don Spaccio, Town of Montour & Village of Montour Falls Registrar at 607-535-9595.  Search the County Town & Village Directory to locate your town information.

2. Where can I get my shot records?

To obtain shot/vaccine records, contact your physician.

3. Where can we get a marriage license or get a copy of an original marriage license?

Marriage licenses may be obtained through the Town Clerks. Search the County Town & Village Directory to locate your town information.  If you need a copy of your original marriage license, this can be obtained from the Town Clerk you originally filed with or from the NYS Department of Vital Records.

4. Where can we get a copy of a criminal record for pistol permits?

A disposition is available at the County Clerk’s Office for a $5.00 fee. A whole criminal history search would be conducted through the Sheriff's Records Department.

5. Where can I obtain Genealogy Records?

Knowledge of specific type of records the person is looking for would need to be known.  Marriage and death certificates are found with the town clerks; birth certificates are found with the county registrar if the person was originally born in Schuyler, or possibly Vital Statistics with the State.  Deeds created after Schuyler County was formed are found at the County Clerk’s Office.  Previous to that, they would be found with the County that previously occupied that part of the county.

6. Where can I get my tax records?

Tax Bills and Payment information can be obtained from the County Treasurer's Office.

7. Where can I get a copy of my divorce records?

Divorce Records finalized in Schuyler County can be found in the County Clerk’s Office and are available only to the original parties involved or their attorneys.

▼

SCCUDD

Show All Answers

1. What are the consequences of teen substance use?

The use of alcohol and other drugs has been linked to a variety of negative consequences, especially for youth. Substance use can lead to:

• Physical and mental health problems: injuries, disease, depression, memory problems
• Academic problems: absenteeism, poor grades
• Poor peer and family relationships: social alienation
• Legal issues: arrests
• Violence
• Economic problems: cost of medical and treatment services and societal costs
• Long-term drug dependence and abuse
  • The younger someone is when they start using drugs, the more likely they are to become addicted. Alcohol and other drugs can hinder healthy adolescent brain development.
• Death: accidents, disease, homicide, suicide

Sources:

• ^{http://www.ojjdp.gov/pubs/drugid/ration-03.html}
• ^{http://talk2prevent.ny.gov/toolkit/developing-brain}
• ^{https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/NSDUHresults2012/NSDUHresults2012.pdf} 
• ^{http://www.toosmarttostart.samhsa.gov/families/facts/brain.aspx} 

2. Why do some teens choose to drink and use other drugs?

Teens' decision to drink alcohol or use other drugs is influenced by:

• If alcohol or other drugs are easy to get
• If parents, neighborhood adults, or friends disapprove of teen drinking or other drug use
• If parents provide teens with alcohol or other drugs
• If they see teen alcohol or other drug use as dangerous
• If they think teens who drink alcohol or use other drugs will be caught by the police
• If they think they would be caught by their parents if they used alcohol or other drugs
• If there is a lot of alcohol or tobacco advertising
• If they experienced violence, mental illness, or drug use in their household

Sources

^{https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-adolescent-substance-use-disorder-treatment-research-based-guide/introduction}

^{https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17485618}

^{https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16389206}

^{https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/NSDUHresults2012/NSDUHresults2012.pdf}

3. What can I do to reduce teen use of alcohol and other drugs?

To help prevent teen drug use, you can:

• Show you disapprove of underage drinking or other drug use
• Let teens know you don't want them to drink or use other drugs because you want them to be safe and happy
• Show teens that you are a trustworthy source of information about alcohol and other drugs
• Let them know you will notice if they drink or use other drugs
• Teach teens tips for resisting peer pressure and ways to refuse alcohol or other drugs if they are offered them
• Get involved in SCCUDD

Remember, it doesn’t need to be one big talk. It’s better to do multiple small talks.

Sources

^{https://www.samhsa.gov/underage-drinking/parent-resources/five-conversation-goals}

4. I'm worried about someone's alcohol or other drug use. Where can I find help?

If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.

Finger Lakes Area Counseling & Recovery Agency (FLACRA)

Watkins Glen Outpatient Clinic

Mill Creek Center, 106 S Perry St Watkins Glen, NY 14891

607-535-8260

Addictions Crisis Line: 315-462-9466

24/7 Opioid Response Team: 833-435-2272

New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS)

24/7 HOPEline: 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or Text HopeNY: 467369

FindAddictionTreatment.NY.gov

SAMHSA's National Helpline

1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Treatment Services Locator

5. How did SCCUDD start?

In April 2006, concerned community members came together to form the Schuyler County Commission on Underage Drinking (SCCUD) in response to:

• Photos of an underage drinking party posted to social media causing the football team to have to forfeit an important game
• The arrest of a mother for purchasing a car-trunk full of alcohol for her children and their friends
• The 2006 Community Health Assessment found that alcohol use was the #1 health concern of county residents and that the county had: ◦2 times the state rate of youth DWI arrests
• 2 times the state rate of unintentional injuries and death
• 3 times the state rate of youth on probation with alcohol involvement
• A high rate of youth injured in alcohol-related motor vehicle accidents

 The coalition originally focused on reducing alcohol availability, improving the effectiveness of law enforcement, and changing social norms. Early activities included:

• DA letter to graduating seniors’ parent about hosting laws
• Parents Who Host, Lose The Most: Don't be a Party to Teenage Drinking campaign
• Sheriff-provided retailer trainings on age proofing and provision of detection machines
• Clings on store coolers
• Anonymous Tip Line
• Beer garden at Italian American Festival
• Ended the practice of the senior class receiving beer mugs or wine glasses with school logo

In 2012, the coalition entered into a Drug-Free Communities Mentoring Grant with Tompkins County's Community Coalition for Healthy Youth (CCHY). With CCHY's guidance, the coalition expanded its focus to include other drugs and updated its name from the Schuyler County Commission on Underage Drinking (SCCUD) to the Schuyler County Coalition on Underage Drinking and Drugs (SCCUDD). The coalition also worked on updating its by-laws and structure, increasing coalition capacity through education and skill-building trainings, and conducted focus groups with community youth to further understand the drug-related social norms and issues facing youth.

In October 2014, SCCUDD was awarded a federal Drug-Free Communities Support Grant by the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). This five-year grant secured federal resources to reduce youth use of alcohol and other drugs by supporting community-driven solutions.

6. What does SCCUDD do?

As a Drug-Free Communities Support Grant recipient, SCCUDD works to increase community collaboration and reduce youth substance use by employing the Seven Strategies for Effective Community Change:

• Providing Information to individuals regarding youth substance use, how to prevent youth substance use, and the consequences of youth substances use.
  • Examples of activities include: flyers, media campaigns, and events
• Enhancing Skills by training community members so they can better help create change in the community.
  • Examples of activities include: server compliance or parenting skills trainings
• Providing Support to help people participate in activities that reduce risk or enhance protection.
  • Examples of activities include: drug-free events or parties and youth organizations
• Enhancing Access and Reducing Barriers by improving systems and processes to help people utilize services.
  • Examples of activities include: prescription drug takeback programs and improved access to substance use services
• Changing Consequences by changing incentives and disincentives to increase or decrease the likelihood of positive or negative behaviors.
  • Examples of activities include: recognition programs and increased DUI checkpoints
• Changing Physical Design by altering the built environment to reduce risk or enhance protection.
  • Examples of activities include: improving visibility in public places to make surveillance easier and having alcohol- and tobacco-free zones
• Modifying and Changing Policies by formally altering written laws, policies, and procedures.
  • Examples of activities include: revising school policies relating to alcohol and other drug use and changing local laws relating to alcohol and other drug use

Sources

^{https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/grants/pdf/sp-14-002.pdf}

▼

Schuyler County

Show All Answers

1. How Do I Know What Electricity Provider Best Fits My Needs?

Knowing what different rates, plans, features and customer-oriented programs each company offers will help you choose the electric provider that best fits your needs.

Consumer Affairs-Top 10 Best Rated NY Elec. Comp.

▼

Sheriff

Show All Answers

1. How can I report a crime?

Call the Sheriff Department's main telephone number 607-535-8222, or in an emergency dial 911.

2. Can I make an anonymous complaint?

Yes. You can call the Tip Line at 607-535-8224.

▼

Town of Orange

Show All Answers

1. Notify Me!

Get notified of events or special notifications!  Create a sign on account within the site found in the upper right hand corner.  This requires an initial two step authentication.  Once your account is active, you can accept notifications which relate to your area of need by visiting http://schuylercounty.us/list.aspx

2. County Comprehensive Plan

The CWCP is part of a series of successful planning efforts by the Towns, Villages, and County to articulate their individual and collective future. Some examples include the 2010 Village of Watkins Glen Lakefront Management & Development Strategy, 2011 Villages of Burdett & Odessa - Commercial District Improvement Strategy, 2012 Town of Orange Comprehensive Plan, 2013 Village of Watkins Glen Comprehensive Plan, and the 2013 Village of Burdett Comprehensive Plan. View the Schuyler Countywide Comprehensive Plan.

3. I Love NY Tourism

Discover what you LOVE in New York! Explore 11 Vacation Regions filled with historic sites, abundant waters, natural wonders and more.

I Love NY Tourism

4. NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation

Visit the NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation to learn about activities, protections & regulation.

Department of Environmental Conservation

▼

Treasurer

Show All Answers

1. Why do I have to pay this tax?

• The intent of this local law shall be to promote Schuyler County in order to increase convention, trade show and tourist business in the County. This tax is paid by the traveler.

2. When did the room tax law go into effect?

• This law was put into effect in 1988 and last amended in 2008

3. What if I only rent in the summer, do I still have to document the rest of the year and send in the forms?

• Per Schuyler County Occupancy Tax Law, you are required to submit a form to this office, even if you have been closed during the quarter

4. Can I pay one lump sum at the end of the year or during tax season?

• No, per Schuyler County Occupancy Tax Law, you are required to submit a form to this office each quarter.

5. Do I still have to pay if my revenue is less than the cost of operation?

• Yes, if you collect a fee for use of your house/room, you are subject to the room tax.

6. Is this just a Schuyler County tax?

• No, certain localities (counties, cities, towns, etc.) charge an additional tax on hotel occupancy commonly known as bed tax.

7. Do I still have to register with the County if I am exclusively using AirBnB?

• You are required to register with the county to obtain a Certificate of Authority no matter what entity you use. However, AirBnB does collect and remit the tax on your behalf.

8. What if I don’t report my revenue?

• If you fail to report your revenue, interest and penalties will be imposed monthly on the amount of tax owed. If the operator fails to comply with this local law and does not collect occupancy tax from the customer then the operator is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishment for which shall be a fine of not more than $1,000.

9. Where does the collected money go?

Chamber of Commerce for its promotion of tourism and of the publication of the advantages of Schuyler County and the region (Section 3 #12) and to economic development within Schuyler County.

10. What if I don’t provide any housekeeping, linen, or other customary hotel services?

• You must still charge Room Tax, the bungalow exemption contained in the State Tax is not applicable to the separate county tax.

11. Do I also need to pay sales tax?

• New York State collects sales tax; you will need to call (518)485-2889 for questions on specificity.

12. How do I dissolve my State given ID# when I no longer conduct business?

• You will need to contact New York State for assistance.

13. Do I have to display the “Certificate of Authority” when my family is staying at the rental? Not paying customers.

• Your “Certificate of Authority” should be displayed prominently in your rental at all times.

14. I know of others who are renting and not paying Room Tax, why?

• All Operators renting to a patron for less than 30 days are required to collect occupancy tax.
• Please contact the Treasurer’s office as soon as possible so that we may inform the prospective operator of the local law and they may avoid any further fines or penalties.

15. Can you tell me who pays?

• Except in accordance with proper judicial order, or as otherwise provided by law, it shall be unlawful for the Treasurer or any officer or employee of the Department of the Treasurer to divulge or make known in any matter the rents or other information relating to the business of a taxpayer contained in any return required under this local law.

16. Is there a minimum gross amount that doesn’t require taxes to be paid/what if I only rent my house/room for two weeks out of the year?

• If you collect a fee for use of your house/room, you are subject to the room tax.

17. Will there be an audit conducted on my revenue?

• Every operator shall keep records of every occupancy and of all rent paid, charged or due.  Records shall be available for inspection and examination at any time upon demand by the Treasurer or his duly authorized agent or employee and shall be preserved for a period of three (3) years, except that the Treasurer may consent to their destruction within that period or may require that they be kept longer.

18. What if a down payment was received in one quarter but the remainder was received in a different quarter?

• Unfortunately, we are not able to help with this situation. You will need to contact an accountant.

19. What if there is a charge for a pet or a charge for damage to my property? Is that included in my gross income and therefore taxed?

• Since the tax is based upon “rent” and rent is based upon “occupancy”, the additional fee charged for an occupant’s pet is a rental charge and therefore taxable.
• As for damages, such charges fall clearly outside of the definition of what can be construed as “rent” and therefore should not be considered as taxable pursuant to our local room tax law.

20. What if I use a website to schedule my rentals? Such as AirBnB or VRBO.

• AirBnB does submit and pay on your behalf but they are the only business that we have a contract with to do so.
• VRBO or any other rental site does not submit for you therefore you are still required to submit a room tax to our office each quarter.

21. What if I am paying late?

• Late submissions are subject to late fees, please contact our office as soon as possible to get those calculated for you.

▼

Watershed

Show All Answers

1. How do I replace a septic systems on an existing home?

Follow the link: Replacement Systems

2. What do I need for constructing a new home?

Follow the link: Building on Previously Undeveloped Land

▼

Weights & Measures

Show All Answers

1. I am thinking about opening a business and need to know what, if any, weights and measures regulations will affect me?

Most businesses are to some degree affected by weights and measures laws. This will vary on the type of business. In general if you will be using any type of weighing and measuring device you will be directly affected. If you will be packaging commodities you will need to know packaging and labeling, and net quantity regulations and requirements.

2. What is a weighing and measuring device?

This is a term that we use to describe equipment or devices such as scales, gas pumps, or meters that weighs or measure commodities in the course of trade or business.

3. So I’ve decided to buy a scale for my business. Where do I start?

Determine the method of sale for your product - will you be prepackaging commodities or selling directly to the customer over the scale? The Weights & Measures office can help guide you through the steps in selecting a suitable scale that meets all applicable laws. We will NOT recommend one scale manufacturer over another, but we can give you several options of type-approved scales that are routinely found in businesses such as yours.

4. Do I need a commercial scale which is approved and legal-for-trade in order to conduct business?

If your business buys or sells any commodity or service by weight in NYS you are required to have an approved, ‘legal-for-trade’ device on which to conduct sales by weight.

5. What constitutes a ‘legal-for-trade’ scale?

A ‘legal-for-trade’ scale is one which is approved by the National Type Evaluation Program (NTEP) and the NYS Weights and Measures Department. ‘Legal for trade’ devices will have an accuracy class designation, the most common being class II or III. This designation will be on the scale, usually on the serial plate.

6. How do I know if a scale is ‘legal-for-trade'?

If you have any doubts as to whether the scale you are going to purchase is legal for commercial use in NYS, please contact the Weights and Measures office for assistance.

7. Can I use my new scale for commercial transactions right out of the package?

No. A scale intended to be used commercially must first be inspected, tested, and sealed by the Weights and Measures Department.

8. How often do you check commercial Weighing and Measuring devices and gas stations?

We inspect all W&M devices annually. However, if your business purchases a new device during the year or you have repairs done on your current device then you MUST contact the W&M office for a device test / seal prior to reusing.

9. How much does it cost for me to get my scale tested each year?

At the present time there is not a fee for testing W&M devices in Schuyler and Chemung counties.

10. What steps can I take to prevent being cheated at a gas station?

Verify that the advertised sign and the pump price are the same. Make sure the pump starts at zero. Make sure a current Weights and Measures seal is visible on the pump.

11. I've seen blue or yellow square stickers on gas pumps. Why are they there?

The "stickers" you refer to are known as "Approval Seals". These seals are required by NYS state W&M law. They are placed there by a county weights and measures official after the gas pump has been tested and found to be accurate and in compliance with all weights and measures requirements. The seal is an indication that weights and measures officials are ensuring customers are getting the gas they are paying for.

12. I have a one-gallon container, and I purchased one gallon of gasoline, but it did not fill my container all the way. Why not?

If you are concerned that the pump is not measuring the fuel accurately, Weights and Measures can certainly test it. However, portable gasoline containers are manufactured to hold more than the labeled quantity, to allow for expansion of the gasoline, and for safety reasons. Also, the containers and the markings on these containers are not as accurate as test containers used by W&M.

13. Why are there so many options for gasoline octane such as 87, 89 and 93? What is an octane rating and why is it important?

The fuel's octane number is a measure of gasoline's antiknock performance - its ability to resist knocking (a metallic pinging sound) as it burns in a vehicle's engine. When you compare gasoline prices among stations, be careful to compare prices for the same octane. Check your vehicle owner's manual to see which octane the manufacturer recommends.

14. What steps can I take to prevent being shorted on a weighing or measuring device?

Make sure the device is on a level surface and that you can see the display. The instrument must start at zero. There should not be anything touching the device. Watch the person doing the weighing or measuring to make sure that nothing extra is added. Verify that there is a current Weights and Measures seal on the device.

15. How can I avoid being overcharged at the register?

The best way to avoid being overcharged is to make a list of all the items you are going to purchase, and write down the shelf prices. Compare the prices you wrote down to the prices you are charged.

16. What should I do if I am overcharged?

If there is a discrepancy, notify the cashier. If the cashier does not change the price, talk to the manager about your dilemma. If the manager cannot or will not change the price for you, contact our department.

17. I found out when I got home that I had been overcharged for several items at a local store. The store flyer advertised prices that were lower than what the scanner charged me. What can I do?

First, contact the manager of the store with your receipts and give him a chance to correct the problem. Second, contact the Weights & Measures who will inspect the store to determine the extent of the problem and take any necessary action to ensure accurate pricing.

18. There seems to be many different ways people sell firewood. What laws do firewood sellers need to follow and how do I know I’m not getting cheated on my delivery?

Refer to the NYS W&M website. The website includes all the information you will need to understand the laws and regulations for buying/selling firewood.

19. I think some of the commodities I buy don't weigh what they say. Where do I complain?

Contact the Weights & Measures Department and explain the problems you are having, give the name of the business and the products you suspect are short weight. W&M will conduct an inspection at the location and take action to correct any discrepancies that are found.

20. I want to make a complaint, but I don't want the business to know that I was the one who made it. What do I do?

All complaints made to the Schuyler and Chemung County W&M departments are anonymous.

21. I want to make and sell homemade fudge at the farm market; do I have to put a label with the weight on it?

Yes, if the fudge is pre-packaged prior to sale. Candy of this type must be sold by net weight, not by the "piece." Weights & Measures can furnish you with detailed information on all the labeling requirements for specific packaged commodities for fudge and other farm market commodities.

22. When I buy a package of meat in a supermarket do I pay for the plastic tray and the wrappings?

No. You should only be charged for the product you are purchasing. This is called "net weight." Anything in a package other than the actual product is called "tare," and this package weight (wrapping, soakers, and labels) must be deducted from the total weight of the package. Selling a product by gross weight (net weight plus tare weight) is illegal.

23. In our local paper there is an advertisement for a traveling gold buying event coming to my town and setting up in a local hotel. Are these legit businesses?

All transient businesses that come into the county must adhere to the same W&M regulations as permanent county businesses. They must give prior notification to the W&M department when they are coming. All scales used by these businesses must be type-approved, tested and sealed. W&M will visit the locations prior to the opening of their event to test and seal their scales.

24. There is a store down the road that is using a scale with no county approval seal on it. Why wasn’t this scale tested? How do I know it is accurate?

While the Weights & Measures Department attempts to test and certify all devices on an annual basis, some devices are occasionally overlooked. Your call will alert us to the problem which will result in the device being approved, tested, and sealed.

▼

Youth Bureau

Show All Answers

1. What does the youth bureau do?

The Schuyler County Youth Bureau plans coordinates and supplements the activities of public, private or religious agency that is devoted to the well-being or protection of youth. The Youth Bureau supports positive youth development for every youth in the Schuyler County.

The Youth Bureau provides the following programs: Youth Court, the Family Play and Resource Center, and Summer Youth Employment. Funded programs included town and village recreation programs, Runaway and Homeless Youth Program and Strengthening Families parenting curriculum.

2. Where does the funding come from and what is it used for?

The Youth Bureau receives funding from the Office of Children and Family Services, Schuyler County United Way, other governmental departments and local tax dollars.

This funding is used to support the youth programs operated by the public, private or religious agencies and the Youth Bureau.