ALBION — Citing the need for State of New York to fully support the initiative, Orleans County lawmakers have decided to halt the process of establishing a countywide District Court, at least for the remainder of the year. During the Legislature’s regular meeting on June 25, Chairman Lynne Johnson announced that a referendum on the issue will not appear on the ballot this year. This decision follows two well-attended public meetings held earlier this month at the County Courthouse. “The room was filled on both occasions,” Johnson said, addressing her colleagues. “And after all, that is the point of a public meeting.” While Johnson noted that the concept of a District Court—which would consolidate town and village justice courts—could hold “tremendous benefits” for Orleans County, she emphasized that the county cannot proceed without explicit state backing and a clearer understanding of the financial implications. Johnson explained that the county will now wait for the state legislature to determine if they will support a District Court Plan in Orleans County. The Orleans County District Court Working Committee, which has been meeting for two years, is expected to reconvene in the fall to draft a resolution asking the state to define the merits and costs of such a system. “To reiterate, no referendum on district court this year,” Johnson stated. “As for the future, that will be determined and driven by New York State.” The decision effectively pauses a debate that has seen significant public interest, particularly regarding the potential costs of transitioning from the current town and village court system. In other business, the Legislature focused heavily on public safety technology and infrastructure, approving a slate of resolutions affecting the Sheriff’s Office. To address communication dead zones in the county’s rural areas, the Legislature authorized an agreement with AT&T Corp. for FirstNet services. The month-to-month contract, approved by a vote of 7-0, covers 50 device lines for phones and computers in sheriff’s vehicles at a cost of $1,249.50 per month. Legislator Draper moved the resolution, noting that the current Verizon service is unreliable in certain areas of the county. Furthermore, the Legislature authorized the purchase of 25 “DC Power and Roof Mount Antenna Mega Range Equipment” units from Nextivity. This $17,475 expense will be fully covered by the 2023 Bi2 Technology grant, meaning no additional county tax dollars were allocated for the upgrade. However, the Legislature did approve a budget transfer of $17,475 from the Sheriff’s Jail-Other Equipment fund to the Sheriff’s Road Patrol budget to facilitate the transaction. Vehicle maintenance was also on the agenda. Lawmakers approved a payment of $5,123.19 to Lyons Collision for repairs to a 2023 Chevy Tahoe. The payment will be reimbursed through insurance recovery funds. The meeting opened with several commendations. Legislator Morgan recognized Brian Ettinger upon his retirement from the Department of Public Works. Legislator Miller presented the 2024 Hellen R Brinsmaid Memorial Youth Worker Award to Peter Anderson from the Job Development Agency. The Legislature also recognized community successes and requests. Rose English from The Lord’s House received approval to hold “Angela’s Purse with Purpose” day on August 10 in the Courthouse yard, an event providing donated items to women in need. Additionally, John Grillo from the Village of Albion secured permission to hang a banner on Courthouse Square to advertise summer concerts at Bullard Park. Sheriff Christopher Bourke received praise in a letter from Holley Police Chief Robert Barton for his assistance in maintaining safety on the last day of school at Holley High School. Barton noted that extra deputies, an RTV, and a drone helped prevent unsafe behavior by off-road vehicles, a repeat issue from the previous year. Towards the end of the meeting, Treasurer Kimberly DeFrank provided a financial update, highlighting that the county had received its annual rebate for credit card use. “The rebate was a little over $43,000,” DeFrank reported. She also noted that the county tax auction is approaching, with only 16 parcels remaining for the July 30 auction at the Elks Lodge. The meeting concluded with the reappointment of local law enforcement officials to the NYS Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. Sheriff Christopher Bourke was appointed as the committee's chairman.