99 NEWS HEADLINES FOR THURSDAY, 7/30/09

TOUGH BUDGET YEAR AHEAD, SAYS COUNTY STAFF--Legislators in Finance Committee were told by Administrator Karen St.Hilaire last night revenue will be the issue next year, as departments have been able to hold the line on spending. She says it's scary the amount of fund balance used in the spending plan is about the half the amount used in 2003, while costs rise and funding is down.

NORTHERN TIER EXPRESSWAY GROUP VOTES FOR 'INTERSTATE' CONCEPT--The Study Advisory Group voted yesterday to rescind the recommendation 6 million dollars in Federal funds be used for specific projects, send all study information to the State DOT, and use the money secured by Congressman John Mc.Hugh to go forward with a stand-alone, four-lane interstate highway instead of piecemeal improvements to US Route 11. St.Lawrence County members of the group pushed for the resolution to be passed, saying the interstate has the greatest potential for job growth and development. The vote was not unanimous; Plattsburgh area representative Randy Brown said the Route 11 and interstate tracks should move forward simultaneously.

COUNTY TRAIL COORDINATOR BENEFITS EXPLAINED--St.Lawrence County Legislators meeting Monday in Finance Committee were told by Lewis County Recreation Trail Coordinator Bob Diehl the goal is to create an integrated system of trails and related services, hospitality, outdoor recreation, shopping and entertainment for a seamless year-round stream of traffic from snowmobiles, ATV's, horseback riders and hikers. St.Lawrence County is piloting a trail system at present; legislators said they want dollars that are heading to the Laurentians staying here.

Blanche Murray--87--Services at a later date at St.Mary's Cemetery, Potsdam. Arrangements are with Buck Funeral Home, Norwood.

Floyd Baker--80--Colton. Services 10am Saturday at St.Paul's Church, South Colton. Calling hours at Buck Funeral Home, Colton Friday 2-4, 7-9pm