NYSEG Energy Assistance Programs
On Wednesday, November 4th, I attended the NYSEG Community Leaders meeting. NYSEG highlighted two key opportunities to lower monthly electric bills, starting with the standard Energy Affordability Program (EAP) for households enrolled in assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Veterans Disability, or HEAP. While customers receiving HEAP directly on their electric accounts are enrolled automatically, residents receiving HEAP for deliverable fuels like oil, wood, or propane can easily apply for monthly EAP bill credits and access no-cost home efficiency upgrades through EmPower+. You can submit an application online at nyseg.com/EAPapply or call NYSEG directly at 800-572-1111.
For moderate-income households that do not receive government assistance, NYSEG and New York State are also offering the Enhanced Energy Affordability Program (EEAP). This two-year pilot initiative extends fixed monthly utility bill discounts to customers earning up to the state median income, with limits set at $69,477 for an individual, $90,854 for a two-person household, and $133,609 for a family of four. Many working families in our town qualify for this relief without realizing it, and I encourage residents to review their eligibility and apply online at https://nyeeap.com or by calling 877-400-2501.
2027 Budget Public Hearing Recap and Human Services Committee Updates
The Town Board held our formal Public Hearing on the 2027 Preliminary Budget this past Thursday, November 5th, at the Jay Community Center. While we had no in-person attendees and received no comments from online viewers during the live stream, the full proceeding was recorded and is available for residents to view at any time on the town website via our Meeting Minutes webpage. Copies of the budget remain accessible online and at the Town Clerk’s office for anyone wishing to review the details.
Our Human Services Committee also met recently and is transitioning to a quarterly meeting schedule to streamline initiatives and accommodate busy schedules. The committee is actively looking for new volunteer members to join its efforts, as several current members are fully dedicated to successfully launching and operating the new Food Bank and the new Thrift Store in Au Sable Forks. If you would like to help support local families and are interested in serving on the Human Services Committee, contact the Supervisor’s office for details on how to get involved.
Hometown Echoes: Share Your Local Stories
The Two Branches Heritage Society has launched Hometown Echoes, a community storytelling project dedicated to documenting and preserving the rich history and everyday memories of our area. Recognizing that history is defined by its people as well as landmark events, the society invites residents to submit personal accounts across several themes, including memorable local figures, family traditions, creative arts, and working life connected to regional industries such as the J & J Rogers Company.
Submissions can also highlight outdoor experiences on our trails and rivers, beloved gathering places like schools and fire departments, stories of resilience during difficult times and floods, or reflections on our distinctive Adirondack landscape and architecture. Every story helps safeguard our town’s shared identity across generations, and community members are encouraged to contribute their memories to the Two Branches Heritage Society by contacting Sue Ann at 518-647-5596 or emailing hometownechos@gmail.com.
Christmas in the Forks Fundraiser
Kick off the holiday season at the Forks Christmas Tree Fundraiser on Saturday, November 7th, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at 20 Main in Au Sable Forks. The event features live music, a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, festive “Reindeer Games,” and a guest bartender.
All community members are invited to join the fun and help support this wonderful seasonal tradition. For additional details, review the attached event flyer or call 518-647-0020.
Have a great weekend,
Matt
