Inter-County Association of WNY visits dairy processing plant
From Steuben County NY,
Steuben County proudly hosted county leaders from across the region on Friday November 21, 2025, at the HP Hood facility in Arkport, New York, for the November meeting of the Inter-County Association of Western New York. Representatives from nearly a dozen counties gathered for a morning of collaboration, regional updates, and shared vision for continued growth throughout Western New York.
The event began at 9:30 a.m. with registration and a continental breakfast, followed by the official call to order by Association President Carol Ferratella of Steuben County. Ferratella also offered the morning’s invocation. Hilda Lando, Steuben County Legislator, led attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Steuben County Legislature Chair Kelly H. Fitzpatrick, County Manager Jack K. Wheeler, Steuben County Industrial Development Agency Executive Director James Johnson, and HP Hood Plant Manager Michael Crouch welcomed members and distinguished guests to Steuben County and highlighted the county’s commitment to regional partnership, economic development, and community-driven progress.
The session also included remarks from state representatives and legislative offices, including Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski (148th District) and Katelyn Ellison, Chief of Staff for Assemblywoman Andrea K. Bailey.
In addition to the morning business agenda—featuring approval of the October minutes, the Treasurer’s Report, NYSAC updates, and a review of new and unfinished county matters—the Association received the 2026 Slate of Officers from the Nominating Committee:
- President: Mark Rondinaro (Schuyler County)
- 1st Vice President: L. Thomas Sweet (Chemung County)
- 2nd Vice President: Elizabeth Partee (Seneca County)
A resolution urging the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) to develop and implement a centralized data collection system for municipal solid waste and recycling was introduced for Association consideration.
Members also received a detailed presentation from Steuben County Deputy Manager and Steuben County Land Bank Executive Director Christopher Brewer, who outlined the Land Bank’s ongoing redevelopment initiatives, community impact, and strategic efforts to revitalize neighborhoods throughout Steuben County.
Following the conclusion of the meeting and adjournment, attendees were invited to a luncheon hosted onsite at HP Hood, followed by a comprehensive tour of the facility led by Plant Manager Michael Crouch, offering county representatives a first-hand look at one of the region’s major employers and a leader in New York’s dairy processing industry.
The next meeting of the Inter-County Association of Western New York will be held on February 20, 2026.
