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911 Department

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1. What is 911?

911 is a nationally recognized telephone number used to call the police, the fire department or the paramedics when help is needed immediately.

911 is a number used for emergencies. However, the definition of an emergency varies from person to person. The best way to judge whether or not to dial 911 is to ask yourself - "Do I need help immediately?". If the answer is yes, dial 911. If the answer is no, dial the non-emergency number for the agency you need to assist you. If there is even the slightest chance that you may need assistance right away, don't take a chance - dial 911.

911 is an easy number to remember. It is easier for children, and also easier for the elderly to remember. 911 is also easier to remember under stressful circumstances. Let's face it, if you need help now, there is no time to look up a seven-digit number. Even dialing 911 saves time.

911 is also easier to use when out and about. If you're at the mall or grocery shopping in the next town, or even if you're out for a Sunday drive, the number for emergency assistance is always the same. 911.

2. What are the advantages of 911?

• A quick and easy number to remember.
• You can dial it no matter where you are.
• If you are calling from a regular telephone company phone (not a mobile or cellular phone), even if you are unable to talk or your call is disconnected, your address and phone number shows up on the 911 call-taker's screen and help will be sent immediately. If you are calling from a mobile or cellular phone, the call will reach our 911 call-taker, but information on your phone number and location are only provided if your handset and the cellular phone company that provides your service has the ability to deliver that information to our 911 center. Even on calls where we get the telephone number and the location we will always ask the caller these questions:
  • What is the emergency
  • Where are you calling from
  • What is the nearest cross street (intersection)
  • Your name
  • Your telephone number
• We ask these questions to make sure that the information we are provided by the phone company is accurate.
• 911 telecommunicators are professionally trained to assist in providing you assistance for any emergency.
• 911 centers are equipped with state of the art telephone and communications equipment.
• 911 save lives

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Board of Elections

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1. What are the hours for voting on Election Day?

• Primary Election poll sites are open from 6 am until 9 pm
• Poll sites are only open if there is a Primary Election in your town/city. Please check our home page to see if there is a primary for your party affiliation in your voting district.
• General Election polls are open from 6 am until 9 pm

2. Can anyone vote in the General Election?

Yes, if you are registered to vote. All registered voters can vote in a General Election. Voters can vote for the candidate of their choice at a General Election. We encourage all registered voters in Steuben County to come out and vote.

3. Can I vote in a Primary Election?

It will depend on the following:

• Is the Primary being held for the party you are registered in?
• Is the Primary being held in your voting district/ward?
• If you answered yes to both questions then you can vote in that Primary.

Primaries are only held if there is a need for one. Check our home page to see if there is a primary for your party affiliation in your voting district.

4. What is a Primary Election?

A Primary Election occurs when you have more candidates running for an elected position on the same party line, than there are positions to be filled. Only when this happens is a Primary Election held. The Primary Election is only held for that party and position.

Registered voters of the party(s) having a primary get the opportunity to vote for the candidate(s) they want to represent them on the ballot in November.

Primaries are very important - but there is normally a very low turnout.

5. Where do I go to vote?

Every registered voter is assigned a specific Polling Place and District where they are to vote on Election Day. This is determined by where you live. If you are unsure where you go to vote on Election Day, you can call our office at 607-664-2260 and we will be happy to look that up for you.

Voters have the option to vote during early voting or on election day. If you are voting on Election Day you must vote at your assigned Polling Place. If voting early, voters can vote at any Early Voting Site.

6. Am I registered to vote?

If you are not sure if you are registered to vote, you can call our office at 607-664-2260 and we will be happy to check for you. View your voter status.

7. When I vote in the General Election do I have to vote for the party I am registered in?

No, the ballot you receive for the General Election includes all candidates running for office in your voting district on all party lines. You can vote for the candidate(s) of your choice on any party line of your choice.

8. How do I change my party?

You can change your party by filling out a new voter registration form and selecting the party of your choice, mail it to the Board of Elections at:
3 E Pulteney Square
Bath, NY 14810

Don't forget the stamp.

All party changes received will take effect immediate until February 14 cutoff. All party changes received February 15th through June 30th will be held. On June 30 all party enrollment changes that had been held will be changed.

Party changes are held February 15th through June 30th due to Primary Elections being held during this time.

9. I changed my party, why am I still listed as...?

If you're party change was received after the February 14th cutoff date your party change will not take effect until June 30th.

Example: You mailed a voter registration form with a party change to the Board of Elections and it was received on February 25th the party change will take effect until June 30th. You will receive a card in the mail listing your new party affiliation once it has been processed.

10. Is it important to know my voting district?

It is not required that you know your voting district but it is helpful. Some poll sites have multiple districts voting in the same poll site. If you know which district you vote in it will speed things up. If you do not know your voting district the election inspectors will look up your information.

11. My mother (or any voter) moved out of the county. Can you take her off the list?

Moved within New York State (NYS) and wants to continue to vote - If the voter has moved within NYS and has already registered with the County Board of Elections in their new county, we will receive notification to remove them from our voter registration rolls after the new county has them registered.

If they have not already registered to vote with the new county, send us a letter with the following information: voter’s name, date of birth, and the address they are registered at and their new address. The vote must sign the letter. Once we verify the information we will update their registration record that they have moved out of our county.

Moved outside of NYS - The voter can send us a signed letter explaining that they have moved out of NYS or they can print the Cancel My Voter Registration form. They can fill out the form, sign it and mail it to the Board of Elections address on the form. If sending us a letter we will need the following information: voter’s name, date of birth, the address they are registered at, and their new address. The vote must sign the letter. Once we verify the information we will update registration record as moved out of state. If they move back they will need to re-register. The voter will want to register with the new county or state they now live in if they wish to continue to vote.

12. I moved. Can I tell you my new address over the phone?

Unfortunately, NY State law requires us to have an original signature (in ink) to make any registration changes. The easiest way to change any information is to fill out a new Voter Registration Form and send it to the Board of Election. Once we receive the voter registration form we will update your information. Print out a new voter registration form (PDF).

13. I'm disabled. Where can I vote?

All poll sites are handicap accessible. If you are unable to make it to a poll site, you may vote by absentee ballot. If you have a long-term or permanent illness or disability, you can apply for a permanent absentee ballot. Download and print out an absentee ballot application (PDF).

14. I was convicted of a felony. Can I vote?

In New York, the general rule is that you can vote after incarceration for a felony conviction, or while you are on parole or probation. In these cases, your voting rights are automatically restored, but you have to re-register in order to vote. You will need to register in the county you are living in. You do not need any special documentation to register.

Voter Registration Form (PDF)

15. I recently moved to Steuben County. Does my voter registration follow me?

It depends. If you were registered to vote in New York State and you moved within New York State then, yes, your registration will follow you. It is still a good idea to fill out a new voter registration form (PDF) and send it to your new Board of Elections, so they can notify you where you go to vote and to make sure your name appears in the poll book on Election Day. If we do not know that you are now living in Steuben County you will be asked to vote by affidavit until we can verify your information.

16. Do I need to let the post office know I moved?

Yes, anytime you move you need to let the post office know that you have moved and what your new address is. Otherwise the mail we send you at your new location will be returned to us. Change your address with the United States Post Office.

When mail is returned to us from the post office, that voter is placed on the inactive list until we can verify their address. When someone is on the inactive list their name will not appear in the poll book on Election Day, if that voter comes in to vote they will be asked to vote by affidavit.

17. If I add or drop a PO Box do I need to let you know?

Yes, anytime you add a post office box or remove a post office box you need to notify the Board of Elections so we can update your mailing information. Otherwise the mail we send you will be returned to us. All you need to do is fill out a new voter registration form (PDF) and mail it to us.

18. Why does my son or daughter's name still appear in the poll book?

Many parents continue to receive mail addressed to their children even though they no longer live there. If we are not notified in writing or receive return mail from the post office letting us know that someone has moved, we cannot remove them from our records.

Every year we mail out blue postcards (they used to be yellow) to every active registered voter in Steuben County to verify that you still live at the address we have you registered at. If we do not receive the blue card back letting us know that the voter has moved we cannot update their record.

19. Why does my deceased neighbor's name still appear in the poll book?

If we cannot find an obituary or receive written notice that someone is deceased we cannot remove them from our records. If you have proof that someone is deceased, like an obituary, or a death certificate, please provide us with a copy. Once we verify that someone is deceased we will remove them from our records.

20. Do I need to show ID when I vote?

Yes, if you did not provide identification when you registered to vote.

Yes, if the information you provided did not match the states record.

If you did not provide identification when you registered to vote or the information we received did not match the states records then you will be asked to present id in order to be able to vote on the machine. If you can't provide id you will be required to vote by affidavit ballot.

It is helpful if you show ID to the election inspectors when you come in to vote it makes it easier for them to find your name in the poll book. You can also take the blue card you received in the mail in March with you to the poll site to help the inspectors locate your voting district and your name. At this time New York State (NYS) does not require voter ID to vote.

21. Why do I receive this blue card in the mail every March?

New York State (NYS) law requires that we send out address verification cards to every active voter in our county. If you no longer live at the address we have you registered at, the post office will return the card to us with either an updated address or mark the card no forwarding address on file. If the post office gives us a new address we will update our records and send you another notice. If we do not have a good address for you, or we cannot verify your address, your registration record will be made inactive and your name will not appear in the poll book.

Information you will find on the blue card:

• The name and address we have you registered at
• Your mailing address if different from your residence address
• The party you are enrolled in
• The poll site where you vote
• The district/ward you vote in
• The date(s) of the election(s)
• The hours poll sites are open for voting

22. Why did I have to vote by affidavit when I went to vote?

• We do not have a valid address for you
• The inspectors could not find your name in the poll book
• You are not a registered voter in Steuben County
• You voted at a party primary that you are not a registered member of
• An absentee ballot had already been issued to you

23. How do I vote if I go away to college?

If you go to college outside Steuben County then you can apply for an absentee ballot. Complete an absentee application. List the address that is still your legal residence (parent's house) and the address where you receive mail at college. When the ballots are available we will mail out your ballot to you, for you to vote and return to our office.

Colleges quite often hold voter registration drives to get you to register from your address at college. If you complete a new registration form and list the address where you are living while at college as your residence, you will be registered to vote from that county/state and not Steuben County. Download and print out an absentee application (PDF).

24. How do I vote if I am in the Military?

Persons serving in the military, along with their spouses and/or dependents, may register as a military voter in New York, entitling them to receive an absentee ballot for all federal, state and local races that they would be otherwise entitled to vote in if they were to go to their assigned polling place based on their New York residence.

You will need to complete a federal post card application and return it to your County Board of Election. This application will register you (if you are not already registered) and will serve as your absentee ballot application for 2 federal general elections (4 years). You must reapply every 4 years. For more information, print out your Federal Post Card Application (PDF).

25. How do I vote if I am living overseas?

United States citizens living outside of the United States, whose last U.S. residence was in New York, along with their children, may register as a special federal voter in New York, entitling them to receive an absentee ballot for all federal races (President/Vice President, U.S. Senate and House of Representatives) that they would be otherwise entitled to vote in based on your New York address. To register as a new special federal voter and/or to request an absentee ballot, you must complete a Federal Post Card Application and return it to the County Board of Elections of your last New York State residence.

This application will register you (if not already registered) and will also serve as your absentee ballot application for 2 federal general election cycles (4 years). You must reapply every 4 years. For more information, print out your Federal Post Card Application (PDF).

26. Does Steuben County's Board of Election run village elections?

No, all village elections are run by the village in Steuben County.

27. Does Steuben County's Board of Election run school elections?

No, all school elections are run by the school districts. Even though some schools use our voting machines they still run their own elections.

28. Why are the results unofficial on election night?

We receive and post the results from the voting machine only, on election night. The results are unofficial until we count the absentee ballots, valid affidavit ballots, un-scanned emergency ballots, and any write-ins. Once we have the totals for all votes we will post the official election results.

29. Do absentee ballots get counted?

A change in the election law now requires all Boards of Election to canvass absentee ballots received in their office every 4 days. All absentee ballots that are to be counted, will be scanned before election day at the Board of Elections. No results can be printed until the close of polls on Election Night. Election Night results will include results from Early Voting, Election Day and Absentee ballots. Absentee ballots can still be received by the Board of Election up to 7 days after the election as long as they are postmarked no later than election day. After the 7 day deadline we open and count all valid absentee ballots received timely, any ballots that need to be counted manually, along with all valid affidavit ballots. Those results are included in the certified election result.

With this new law any Absentee voter, (including Permanent Absentee voters) who have been issued an Absentee ballot, will no longer have the ability to vote in person on the voting machine. If you wish to vote in person, either during Early Voting or on Election Day, it will be by Affidavit ballot only.

30. Where can I find election night results?

Election night results are posted on the Board of Elections page and the County's main page.

31. Where can I find past election results?

Past election results are posted on the Board of Elections page. View the Election Results page. Currently on our web page you can find election results back to 2000.

32. What do I do if I want to run for an office?

The Board highly recommends that you to come into the office and speak with a staff member. Depending on your legal residence and party affiliation (or no party affiliation) will determine the steps you must follow to run for an office. The office staff is here to help you with all of the information you need to run for office and to assure you understand the process. It is important that you get the correct information in regards to running for an office.

The process to run for an office that is up that year starts the end of February depending on your party affiliation. If you have questions about running for an office please call the office at 607-664-2260.

33. Do I have to file Campaign Finance paperwork if I run for an office?

Yes, New York State (NYS) law requires that every person who runs for an office must file campaign finance paperwork. Contact the NYS Board of Election Campaign Finance Department at 800-458-3453 or 518-474-8200 or email NYS Board of Election Campaign Finance Department.

All Campaign Finance paperwork is now filed with the NYS Board of Election.

34. How do I register for an absentee ballot to vote in my village election?

Contact your village clerk, they will be happy to give you an application for an absentee ballot.

35. How do I register for an absentee ballot to vote in my school election?

Contact the district clerk at your school, they will be happy to give you an application for an absentee ballot.

36. Do I have to file Campaign Finance paperwork if I run for a Village Office?

Yes, New York State (NYS) law requires that every person who runs for an office must file campaign finance paperwork including those who run for a village office. If you run for a village office you must file campaign finance paperwork with the village clerk, as all villages in Steuben County run their own elections.

37. How do I cancel my voter registration?

Print out the Voter Registration Cancellation form, fill it out and sign it (requires the voter's signature) and mail it to the Board of Elections (the address is on the form). 

Or you can send us a letter with the following information: voter's name, date of birth, the address they are registered at, and state that you no longer wish to be registered to vote. The voter must sign the letter. Mail the letter to the Steuben County Board of Election 3 E. Pulteney Square, Bath, NY 14810.

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Board of Elections - Early Voting

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1. What is early voting?

Early voting allows voters to vote in person at any early voting location within their county for nine (9) days, before the scheduled Election Day. You do not need a reason or excuse to vote early.

2. What can I expect at an early voting site?

Voting at any early voting site will be just like voting at your regular poll site. The early voting site will have electronic poll books instead of paper signature poll books. Once you sign in, you will be given a ballot for your town and district, you will vote your ballot, and scan the ballot into the voting machine to be counted.

3. Do I need to be a registered voter, or can I register at any early voting poll site?

You must be a registered voter in order to vote on the voting machine. The cut-off date to register to vote is 10 days before the election. Voter registration forms are available on the New York State Board of Elections website or you can register online through the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles website if you have a NYS DMV license, permit or ID.

4. Can I go to any of the Early Voting Sites in my county to vote?

Voters who live in Steuben County can go to any one of the 3 early voting sites listed above, to vote. Each early voting site has a complete list of all active registered voters in Steuben County. But, you can only vote once, either at one of the early voting sites or on Election Day.

5. Is the ballot the same during early voting as it is on Election Day?

Yes, the ballots used during early voting are the same as the ballots issued on Election Day.

6. When will my vote be counted if I vote early?

All early voting and election day results are posted on the Board of Elections website, after the Polls are closed on Election Night.

7. Can I change my vote if I vote early?

No, you can only vote once in any Election.

8. What if my name is not in the electronic poll book?

If the election inspector is unable to locate your information, either during early voting or on Election Day, you will be allowed to vote by Affidavit Ballot. The election inspectors will need your current address to make sure you are given the correct ballot to vote.  After Election Day, the Board of Elections will research your registration and count you’re Affidavit Ballot, if you are a qualified voter. You will be sent a letter notifying you whether or not your vote was counted. If your vote is not counted, the letter will inform you why it did not count.

9. What if I moved from another county in NYS and I haven’t registered yet in my new county?

In 2019, a law was passed that requires all Board of Elections in New York State to transfer the voter registration of any voter that appears on a statewide voter list, to wherever the voter moves within NYS. So if you move, even to a different county in NYS, and your new county has not been notified of your change of address, you can vote by affidavit ballot either at your new county’s Early Voting site before Election Day, or at the polling site for your new address on Election Day, and your affidavit ballot will be counted once your new address is verified and your registration has been transferred. As this is a new law, we strongly recommend that if you have moved within NYS, you submit a voter registration form to the new Board of Elections, or if you have a NYS driver’s license you can go to MyDMV to change your voter registration online. If you submit your change of address to your local Department of Motor Vehicles office, you can select the option to notify the Board of Elections of your address change on the paper form also.

10. If you wish to go to vote on Election Day, you will go to your regularly assigned poll site to vote.

If you vote during early voting, you are NOT eligible to vote on Election Day.

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Conflict Defender

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1. How do I get a Public Defender?

You must first contact the office of the Public Defender and fill out a financial affidavit. Sometimes you will be given them in court. They will determine if you qualify. If they find that you qualify but they have a conflict of interest, your case will be transferred to the Conflict Defender's Office for representation.

2. What if I was never read my Miranda Rights?

You should talk to your attorney about the circumstances, however the failure to read rights does not make your arrest illegal.

3. If I am the suspect in a crime or investigation, should I talk to the police and explain my side of the story?

It is always best if you refuse (politely) to make any statement and ask for an attorney immediately. Do not talk to the Police.

4. How are felonies graded?

An A felony is the most severe and an E felony is the least severe therefore felonies range from A, B, C, D and E Not every felony charge requires a state prison sentence, some allow for probation or local jail.

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Finance - General Information

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1. What is the address and phone number of the Steuben County Finance Office?

3 E Pulteney Square
Room 301
Bath NY 14810
Phone: 607-664-2488
Fax: 607-664-2188

2. Does the Finance Office accept credit card payments?

Yes - visit the online payments page.

3. Does the Finance Office accept the US postmark as the payment date?

No; payments must be received in the Finance Office by the stated deadline/due date.

4. What are the Finance Office hours?

Monday through Friday
8:30 am to 5 pm

5. Why does Steuben County do a title search on my property?

If your property has unpaid taxes and is on the list of delinquent taxes, a title search is prepared for the notification process that takes place during the final 90 days of foreclosure.

6. What is the Steuben County Sales Tax Rate?

8% (4% New York State, 4% Steuben County).

Additional sales tax information can be found at the numbers /addresses listed below:

For general New York State tax information:

• Phone: 800-972-1233
• New York State Department of Taxation and Finance web page

For sales tax information from the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance:

• Phone: 800-698-2909
• New York State Sales and use tax web page

For sale tax publications:

• Phone: 800-462-8100
• New York State Sales tax publications and tax bulletins web page

7. Where do I get a Certificate of Residence and why do I need it?

You can obtain a Certificate of Residence at the Steuben County Finance Office.

Please complete an application from your college or download an application from our website and submit to the Steuben County Finance Office.

The certificate is completed to receive the resident tuition rate at community colleges only.

Instructions are available by viewing our Instructions for Completing Certificate of Residence (PDF)

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

Answer goes here...

3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

Answer goes here...

4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

Answer goes here...

5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

Answer goes here...

6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

Answer goes here...

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Public Health - COVID-19 Vaccines

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1. Do I have to pay for the vaccine?

No, there is no cost or copay for the vaccine.

2. Why should I get vaccinated?

The vaccines are important to help stop the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies show that COVID-19 vaccines are effective at keeping you from getting COVID-19 and from getting seriously ill from COVID-19. COVID-19 vaccination helps protect you, your family and friends, and our community, and is an important tool to help get us back to normal. For more information on COVID vaccines visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

3. How soon after getting vaccinated am I protected from COVID-19?

Like all vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccine does not instantly provide protection. It takes time for your immune system to respond to the vaccine and develop disease-fighting antibodies. To be fully protected, you must wait until after receiving your second dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines.

4. Can you tell more about the vaccines currently available in the United States?

There are currently two vaccines available in the U.S. that require two doses:

• For the Moderna vaccine, a second dose is required 28 days after your first dose. Moderna has been shown to be about 95% effective at preventing symptomatic COVID-19 infection starting 14 days after the second dose. Learn more about the Moderna vaccine.
• For the Pfizer vaccine, a second dose is required 21 days after your first dose. The Pfizer vaccine has been shown to be about 95% effective at preventing symptomatic COVID-19 infection starting 7 days after the second dose. Learn more about the Pfizer vaccine.

For the Janssen (Johnson and Johnson) vaccine, no second dose is required. The Janssen vaccine has been shown to be about 72% effective at preventing symptomatic COVID-19 infection starting 14 days after vaccination. Learn more about the Janssen vaccine.

All of the vaccines are extremely effective at preventing hospitalization and death related to COVID-19.

The Public Health and Medical communities are confident that these vaccines are safe and effective. While the process to develop these vaccines may seem fast, they were built on years of thorough research and application addressing other types of coronaviruses. All the necessary steps and safety measures were followed during the development of the vaccines, and every study, every phase, and every trial was reviewed by the FDA and safety boards of medical experts. The speed of development was due to the sharing of research and massive collaboration on a scale never attempted before.

5. Will I still need to quarantine if exposed to COVID-19 after being vaccinated?

See updated guidelines regarding quarantine requirements.

6. What should I expect after I get vaccinated?

Like with all vaccines, there is a chance you may experience some symptoms as your body builds an immune response. Potential side effects may include pain, soreness or swelling at the injection site on the arm, fatigue, fever, or headache. These are signs the vaccine is working and your immune system is responding to the vaccine and learning how to fight off the virus. Mild pain relievers should help you feel better, but should not be taken before you feel symptoms or before you get the vaccine. If you don't feel better within two or three days you should follow up with your doctor.

If you experience other COVID-19 symptoms, such as congestion, cough, shortness of breath, runny nose, sore throat or loss of taste and smell, they are not related to receiving the vaccine and could mean you have COVID-19. You should consult your healthcare provider and get tested. The vaccine does not cause COVID-19 and contains no ingredients that could cause COVID-19, but you could have already been exposed to COVID-19 before receiving your vaccine or before you were protected.

7. Where can I learn more about COVID-19 vaccination?

You can visit the following websites for more information:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) COVID-19 Vaccine Information
• Key Things to Know about COVID-19 Vaccines
• New York State's Phased Vaccine Distribution Plan

Frequently asked questions about COVID-19 vaccination:

• CDC FAQs
• New York State Department of Health FAQs

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Public Health - Health Care / Insurance Questions

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1. How do I apply for health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act?

Call 211 or visit the 211 website to get linked with facilitated enrollers or health insurance navigators. You can also apply directly by visiting the New York State of Health website and click "Get Started."

2. How do I get medical transportation for doctor’s visits?

Transportation for Medicaid Clients
MAS Website
Phone: 866-271-0564

IHS Coordinated Transportation Services
Phone: 607-664-3965
Provides transportation for the elderly, disabled and those in need to non-emergency medical appointments, pharmacies, grocery stores, food pantries, or a one-time trip to human service agencies. Regular assistance is not available for recurring treatments such as dialysis or physical therapy, but occasional or short term help may be available.

Steuben County Office for the Aging (OFA): Project Care - Transportation Services
3 E Pulteney Square
Bath, NY 14810
Call for services: 607-664-2298
Steuben County OFA Website
Email the OFA
Provides non-emergency transportation to medical appointments.
Eligibility: Must be 60 or older and reside in Avoca, Bath, Bradford, Hammondsport, Pulteney, Prattsburgh, Savona, or Wayne. (The town of Pulteney also includes parts of Zip Code 14418)

3. What home care agencies are available in Steuben County?

View information for the care agencies of Steuben County.

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Public Health - Housing / Environmental Health

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1. What do I do about bed bugs?

Steuben County Public Health does not regulate housing issues related to bed bugs. Find information about bed bugs and how to fix a bed bug problem. View EPA-registered bed bug products.

2. I found a tick on me/my child. What do I do?

Ticks should be removed as soon as they are found. Please view the video for proper tick removal and next steps. View information on Lyme disease and tick prevention.

3. What do I do if my mobile home does not have water?

Please call the Hornell District Office for help with this environmental health issue. 

• Department of Health Hornell District Office (serving Steuben and Schuyler counties): 607-324-8371

4. What do I do if I want to report an unsanitary restaurant?

Please call the Hornell District Office for help with this environmental health issue:

• Department of Health Hornell District Office (serving Steuben and Schuyler counties): 607-324-8371

5. Who do I contact to have my water tested?

The following laboratories provide water testing for the public. There is a fee to have your water tested. Please check with the closest lab for costs.

• GHM Environmental
• Life Science Laboratories, Inc. - Finger Lakes

If you would like to have your water tested for lead, the New York State Department of Health provides free testing. View information on how to get water testing through this program.

6. If I have any of the following health concerns, who should I contact?

If you experience any of the following health concerns or complaints, contact your local code enforcement officer. Contact information can be found in the directory of local officials (PDF).

• Mold in home - Health considerations
• Mosquito breeding sites - Health considerations
• Rats, rodents, trash, feces, bugs
• Housing conditions
• Neighbor's or landlord's septic
• If you have a septic problem with your own home, you are responsible for getting it fixed.

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Public Health - Lead Poisoning

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1. How much does it cost to test my drinking water for lead?

New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) has a new pilot program. As long as funds continue to be available, lead testing for water is being offered for free by NYSDOH. For more information on how to get your drinking water tested for lead visit the NYSDOH website.

2. Where can I get more information on lead in my drinking water?

• Certified Product Listings for Lead Reduction
• New York State Department of Health

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Public Health - Records / Permits

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1. Where can I find out if I or my child received an immunization or how can I access immunization records?

First, contact your health care provider to see if they have a record of immunizations. Secondly, New York State (NYS) Department of Health maintains an immunization registry (NYSIIS). Starting in 2008, all children were eligible to be included in NYSIIS. Public Health is able to access current NYSIIS records.

Adults may never have had their immunization information put into the registry, and we may not be able to locate immunization records for them. Encourage your provider to put immunizations into the registry for access later.

2. Where do I get a copy of a birth or death certificate?

Birth, death, and marriage records are collected and maintained at the local town/city level by the clerks of each respective location where the events occurred. Check the County Directory (PDF) for the appropriate contact.

For example, if you live in Campbell, but were born at Corning Hospital's old location, you can obtain a copy of your birth certificate through the City of Corning Clerk. If you live in Bath, but were born in the new Corning Hospital location, you can get a copy from the Town of Corning Clerk.

Birth certificates can also be obtained through the NYS Department of Health (DOH). Visit the NYSDOH website for more information. There is a cost associated with getting a copy at either the local clerk's office or the DOH, but it has been found to cost less through the local clerk.

3. Where do I get a permit for food vending?

Permits for food vending can be obtained through the New York State (NYS) Department of Health District Office in Hornell. Contact the office by calling 607-324-8371 or visiting their office located at:
107 Broadway
Room 105
Hornell, NY 14843

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Public Health - Screening / Developmental

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1. I'm concerned my child has developmental delays. Who do I contact?

• If your child is under age 3, contact Early Intervention: 607-664-2438
• If your child is 3 to 5 years old, contact your local school district and ask for the CPSE chair.

2. Where can I get a PRI/Screen done?

Contact NY Connects at 607-644-2322.

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Public Health - What You Should Know...

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1. What is biological, chemical and radiological terrorism?

The intentional use of biological, chemical and/or radiological agents to cause disease or death in humans, animals or plants.

2. How great is the threat?

• Biological, chemical and radiological terrorism is possible, yet considered unlikely.
• These agents are difficult to make and disperse effectively on a widespread scale.
• Some of the agents that might be used weapons are smallpox, anthrax, plague, botulism, nerve or skin blistering agents.
• Community planning and preparedness is ongoing and can greatly reduce the threat of biological, chemical and radiological terrorism.

3. What can you do to protect yourself?

• Be informed and stay calm!
• Be aware/stay alert - Information about specific biological and chemical weapons is available from the New York State Department of Health and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Listen to local media for advice on what to do in the event of any incident or emergency.
• If you develop unusual or sudden illness, call your physician or hospital emergency room immediately.
• Practice good infection control.
• Wash hands frequently and completely.
  • For 10 to 15 seconds
  • Rub longer if hands are dirty
  • Soap well every part of the hands (don't forget between the fingers)
  • Rinse in a flowing stream of water
  • When there is no water, use detergent-containing towelettes and alcohol-based hand-rubs
  • Dry hands with paper towels or hand dryers (operate lever-operated dispensers before washing and activate hand blowers with elbows to avoid re-infecting your hands)

4. Can I be vaccinated?

• The public can not get the anthrax or smallpox vaccine at present.
• Preventive antibiotics are not necessary.
• If needed, vaccines and antibiotics will be made available.

5. How prepared is Steuben County?

• A countywide emergency plan is in place to coordinate police, fire, public health, medical and emergency responses.
• Health care workers are receiving training to increase awareness and reporting of unusual illness.
• Hospitals report any unusual patterns of illness to Steuben County Public Health every 24 hours.

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Tax Auction

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1. When is the delinquent tax auction of real property held?

The tax auction has converted to online only and is usually held in the summer. For more information, contact Steuben County Finance Office at 607-664-2488.

For detailed information on tax-foreclosed properties, including photographs and pertinent information, visit the Tax Auction page.

2. Where is the Steuben County Delinquent Tax Auction held?

The tax auction has converted to online only. Please visit our Tax Auction page, for the most current information.

3. What time is the auction held?

The tax auction has converted to online only and lasts for 7 days. Please visit our Tax Auction page for more details.

4. Can I obtain a list of properties that will be auctioned?

Yes, books may be purchased at the Steuben County Finance Office or you can visit our Tax Auction page.

5. Is there a minimum bid on county owned property that is being auctioned?

Yes, there is a $50 minimum bid. Please visit the Tax Auction page for more details.

6. Is there a list of rules/terms of the auction?

Yes, view the Tax Auction page for the Notice to Bidders & Terms of Sale.

7. Now that the tax auction of real property is online, what do I do if I don’t have a computer or smart phone?

Should a prospective bidder not have the ability to participate in the online auction format, they are encouraged to contact the auctioneer as soon as practical. Any such circumstances shall be addressed on a case-by-case basis. Reasonable accommodations shall be made to allow participation in the auction and to facilitate the submission of bids.

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Taxes

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1. When will I receive my Town/County tax bill?

Tax bills are mailed in January. If you do not receive a bill, contact your town tax collector. View the Town Tax Collector Contact Information (PDF)

2. When are property taxes due?

County and town taxes are paid to the town tax collector until March 31. No penalty if paid by January 31. View the Town Tax Collector Contact Information (PDF).

3. When will I receive my school tax bill?

Depends on your school district. Central schools districts send out bills in September. Corning / Hornell City school districts send bills in October.

View the School's Tax Collector Contact Information (PDF).

4. When are school taxes due?

• Central School districts are due October 31.
• Corning City School taxes are due March 31 - payable in 2 installments.
• Hornell City School taxes due by March 15.

5. When are my village tax bills sent out?

• South Corning and Hammondsport -March 1.
• All other villages - June 1.

6. When are my village taxes due?

Payable to the village tax collector by October 31.

View the Village Tax Collector Contact Information (PDF)

7. When are the City of Corning tax bills sent?

July 1st

8. When are the City of Hornell tax bills sent?

May 1st

9. How and where do I pay property taxes?

Current taxes are payable to Cities and Towns, School Districts, and Villages.

Delinquent taxes are payable to the Steuben County Finance Office. The most current year taxes due must be paid before any prior year taxes can be paid.

For more information contact 607-664-2488.

Related Documents

• City and Town Tax Collector Contact Information (PDF)
• Schools Tax Collector Contact Information (PDF)
• Village Tax Collector Contact Information (PDF)

10. Can I pay my current property taxes in installments?

Corning City School taxes may be paid in two installments.

11. Can I pay my current taxes online?

Please check with your local tax collector.

12. What happens if I don’t pay my taxes?

Steuben County has the option of foreclosing on your property.

13. Can I pay my delinquent taxes online?

Yes - view our online payments page.

14. Is there any way for me to pay my delinquent taxes on an installment plan?

Yes, you may set up an installment plan for delinquent taxes at the Steuben County Finance Office. You will need a minimum of 10% down payment. The term can be up to 24 months. You must keep current taxes paid or your installment contract will be in default.

15. Am I eligible for the STAR Program?

The STAR program applies only to your school taxes. File an application with your local assessor by March 1, except in Hornell City by January 1.

Exemptions

• Basic Exemption - you must file one time if you own your home and it is your primary residence.
• Enhanced Exemption - you must file annually if your are age 65 and your income is less than $60,000.

16. If there is an error on my tax bill, whom should I contact?

Please notify your assessor immediately.

17. Why do I have to pay school tax? I have no children in school.

You may not have a child in school, but if you own a property you contribute to the funding of education. Federal and State law mandates (requires) public educational programs. Since Federal and State dollars are insufficient to meet total costs, school districts depend on real property taxes. Additionally, County tax dollars partially fund Community Colleges and programs for special-needs children.