Capital District Times

Washington, D.C. – In case you missed it, on Friday Utica Observer Dispatch reported that Congresswoman Elise Stefanik secured $2.75 million in funding for a children’s center in Herkimer County. This funding will provide vital childcare services for employers and workers which county leaders have said is the number one issue facing businesses and employees.

When President Joe Biden signed a bill on March 9 to prevent a partial federal government shutdown, he also accelerated the timetable of a project in Herkimer County. The $460 billion package of six annual spending bills included millions for community projects across the country, including $2.75 million for a proposed children’s center in Herkimer County. That money, on top of other grants, was enough to move the project forward.

The Herkimer County Legislative Board voted 10-5 Wednesday evening to authorize construction of the 14,000-to-16,000-square-foot center on part of the former Duofold site in Ilion that is currently across Spruce Street from the main Duofold building.

County Administrator Jim Wallace expressed his enthusiasm for the federal funding, stating, "We’re ecstatic." This funding was the final piece needed for legislators to approve the construction of the children's center.

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, who represents Herkimer County and the North Country, celebrated the funding as a significant victory for the region. She emphasized the importance of addressing childcare issues, stating, "In discussions with county leaders, child care kept coming up as the top issue, one that presents challenges to employers whose workers need it." Stefanik further explained her support for the project by saying, "That’s why she chose to back the project for funding."

Stefanik also highlighted her commitment to supporting community projects in each county, with a focus on initiatives most desired by local officials. Additionally, she backed another project in Herkimer County aimed at mitigating flooding, demonstrating her dedication to addressing critical issues in the region.

The full article can be accessed at the following link: [Read the full article here](https://stefanik.house.gov/2024/3/icymi-utica-observer-dispatch-millions-in-federal-funding-is-coming-to-herkimer-county-how-will-the-money-be-spent).