State of the County 2026: Picente Unveils ‘250 Forward’ Vision

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. today delivered his 2026 State of the County Address at Turning Stone Resort Casino, outlining a sweeping vision for the county’s future centered on opportunity, innovation and community investment under a new initiative titled “250 Forward.”

As the county prepares for America’s 250th anniversary, Picente is not only reflecting on the past, but focusing on long-term investments designed to strengthen housing, workforce development, public health, youth mental health and economic growth across Oneida County.

“’250 Forward’ is about ensuring the American Dream remains attainable for everyone in Oneida County,” Picente said. “It is a commitment to breaking down barriers, creating opportunity and building a future where every resident has the ability to succeed no matter where they start.”

As part of the initiative, Picente announced the creation of several new programs and investments, including:

• The adoption of a tax exemption policy that will increase the types of housing that can be incentivized and the creation of a $10 million Home Forward Investment Fund to support new housing development over the next five years.
• A new Veterans Capital Restoration Matching Grant Program with $500,000 dedicated to helping local American Legion and VFW posts maintain and improve their facilities.
• Expanded workforce development initiatives focused on manufacturing, as well as aligning residents with emerging career opportunities and preparing the community for the impact of artificial intelligence.
• Expanded community-based youth employment and neighborhood revitalization efforts.
• New coordinated efforts among non-profit and human service agencies to maximize resources and improve service delivery.

Picente also announced a new youth wellness initiative that will begin with a youth summit on June 5 that will bring together students from each school district in Oneida County to discuss mental health, school safety, social pressures and the challenges facing young people today. The summit will serve as the foundation for the creation of the Oneida County Youth Wellness Cabinet, which will give students an ongoing role in shaping wellness and mental health priorities in their schools and communities.

“Our young people need to have a seat at the table,” Picente said. “We need to hear directly from them about what they are facing and what they need from the adults and institutions around them.”

The County Executive also announced plans to move forward with a public health order and local law banning the sale of kratom in Oneida County, citing concerns from public health officials regarding the unregulated substance.

Picente further highlighted continued momentum in economic development projects across the region, including Chobani’s new natural food plant and The Runway sportsplex at Griffiss in Rome, the continued expansion of the U-District and Nexus Neighborhood in downtown Utica and the soon-to-be-completed $400 million Evolution expansion at Turning Stone Resort Casino.

Throughout the speech, Picente stressed the importance of collaboration among municipalities, schools, nonprofits, businesses and community partners in addressing the county’s challenges and opportunities.

“The state of Oneida County is strong,” Picente said. “Strong financially and strong physically. Strong because our people never give up. We are focused not on the rearview mirror, but on building an even better tomorrow.”

A full copy of the 2026 State of the County Address speech is available here.