Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) convened a “green economy briefing” today as a follow-up to her Green Economy Summit last year. This year’s briefing was attended by over 60 local business and community leaders and focused on how the federal stimulus package will advance local green jobs. Other topics covered included: workforce development for clean technology industries in the Southern Tier; local access to green jobs; weatherization programs; and updates from local governments.

“With all the resources for energy conservation being delivered through the economic stimulus package, meetings like this help in coordinating our efforts,” said Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, a member of the Environmental Conservation Committee in the Assembly. “Given all the ‘green’ assets our community has to offer, we are perfectly positioned to take advantage of the funding in the stimulus.”

Guest speakers at the briefing include: Guy Caroselli, Energy Services Director, Tioga Opportunities; Jason Garnar, Broome County Legislator; Matthew Ryan, Mayor, City Of Binghamton; Terry Stark, Director, Broome-Tioga Workforce NY; and Frank Surdey, Managing Economist, New York State Department of Labor.

“Thousands of homes and businesses presently burdened by rising utility costs, and consuming 30-40% more energy than required, will find relief through this emerging green economy,” said Guy Caroselli, Energy Services Director for Tioga Opportunities. “This renewed interest in Energy Efficiency and Building Science will create many new jobs, invigorate numerous trades across all sectors and be central in the development of a sustainable community.”

“I would like to thank Assemblywoman Lupardo in her effort to bring together key stakeholders in Broome County to continue the work of forming a ‘Green Economy,’" said Broome County Legislator Jason Garnar (D-Binghamton). “Broome County government has been very active in becoming more energy efficient and has passed legislation to help county residents in this regard, as well. We are excited that the Federal government has provided a substantial amount of money in the recent stimulus package to help residents save money by weatherizing their homes, and are looking forward to working with local agencies and companies to create the green jobs that will soon be needed.”

“By mobilizing the green economy, we’ll create family supporting jobs, conserve reusable resources, and build a cleaner, healthier city,” said Mayor Matt Ryan. “Along with Assemblywoman Lupardo, my administration recognized this promise early on, and we’ve positioned ourselves to bring it home. I’m pleased the federal government has committed funds to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant, and we look forward to tapping them to advance the green economy.”

“Broome Tioga Workforce NY, in conjunction with education, housing and government partners began development of our green jobs strategy more than a year ago,” said Terry Stark, Director, Broome-Tioga Workforce NY. “By May 2009 we will have created multiple training options for individuals interested in weatherization, energy efficiency and other green jobs.”

"Aggressive State renewable and energy efficiency policies combined with 2009 Federal Stimulus Funds directed at these areas will spur related business activity,” said Frank Surdey, Managing Economist for the New York State Department of Labor. “Significant opportunities are anticipated in renewable installation and weatherization industries."