Conservation easement exemptions for Bethlehem landowners has now been signed into law by Governor Cuomo.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Breslin and myself, allows for the Town of Bethlehem to provide for a substantial property tax exemption for landowners who agree to conserve open space, either for an extended period of years or in perpetuity.

With this legislation, the town can now advance their open space preservation program in a transparent and fair manner while providing incentives for those who choose to preserve undeveloped, open property. What happens in Bethlehem could be used as a model for other communities facing this issue.

Congratulations to the Delmar Farmers Market on being named one of the Top 101 Farmer Markets in the country by the Daily Meal.

Events in and around the 109th:

+ The Altamont Fair is this week. The Altamont Fair is running from now through this Sunday. Join Senator Cecilia Tkaczyk and me on Friday, Aug. 15 at 4 p.m. for a tour of the Altamont Wine Festival as part of the Taste NY initiative. For more information about the Altamont Fair, visit their Web site.

+ New book about the Altamont Fair. Additionally, author Keith Lee has released a new book entitled “Treasured Memories: History of the Altamont Fair.” For more information about the book, visit their Web site.

+ Albany Bikeshare Week. This week marks Albany Bikeshare Week, where 25 bicycles have been made available for use by the public to encourage bike use in the city. The pilot program runs through Saturday, Aug. 16. For more information, visit Capital Moves.

+ Centennial celebration of Thacher Park. On Saturday, Sept. 13 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Thacher Park will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a variety of events and activities for the entire family to enjoy. Free to attend. For more information, visit nysparks.org.

Job Opportunities: New York State has setup a new job portal entitled Jobs Express, where thousands of private and public sector jobs are listed. Visit jobs.ny.gov for more information on how to apply for these opportunities.

As always, for the latest about my office’s happenings or for upcoming events, please visit my office online, on Facebook, on Twitter, or my Times Union blog. If you would like to reach my office, please feel free to send us a note.

Sincerely ---

Pat