Talk of the Towns

In this episode of Talk of the Towns, we sit down with Elisabeth Dubois, Ph.D., Cyber Risk Specialist at NYMIR, to break down what municipalities need to know to stay protected. From common vulnerabilities and real-world risks to practical steps towns can take today, this conversation offers clear, actionable insight for local officials.Whether you’re a supervisor, board member, or department head, understanding your town’s cyber risk is no longer optional—it’s essential.

In Season 2, Episode 1 of Talk of the Towns, Executive Director Chris Koetzle sits down with Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joe Saladino for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to govern one of the largest towns in America.

In this episode, NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle sits down with Town of Florida Supervisor Eric Mead.

In this episode of Talk of the Towns, Executive Director Chris Koetzle sits down with Supervisor VanLuven of the Town of Bethlehem and Supervisor Nowak of the Town of Cheektowaga for an in-depth conversation on infrastructure, SWAP, and the challenges shaping the future of New York’s towns.Together, they break down what it really takes to maintain and modernize local infrastructure from long-term planning and funding hurdles to the importance of collaboration between towns and the state. Their insights reveal how thoughtful decision-making and practical action are essential to keeping communities running safely and efficiently.It’s a timely, grounded discussion on the work happening behind the scenes to support residents, strengthen services, and prepare for the demands of tomorrow.Stay tuned for more episodes in our Supervisor Series — highlighting the voices, experiences, and leadership shaping towns across New York State.

In this episode of Talk of the Towns, Executive Director Chris Koetzle is joined by: Supervisor Schultz, Town of Henrietta, Supervisor Mack, Town of Union, and Supervisor Marinaccio, Town of Dickinson.Together, they dive into the realities of leading a town — from managing financial pressures to balancing long-term vision with day-to-day demands.It’s a timely discussion on what strong, practical leadership looks like in local government.Stay tuned for more episodes in our Supervisor Series, spotlighting leadership styles and the voices shaping New York’s towns.Stay tuned for more episodes in our Supervisor Series—highlighting the voices and experiences of town leaders across New York State.

In this episode of Talk of the Towns, Executive Director Chris Koetzle is joined by:Bill Moehle, Supervisor, Town of BrightonChristopher Kennan, Supervisor, Town of North EastGeorge Richter, Supervisor, Town of ChemungTogether, they discuss the challenges towns are facing during budget season, including financial pressures, long-term planning, and strategies for maintaining fiscal stability.It’s an insightful, timely conversation for local leaders and anyone interested in how towns navigate the budgeting process.Stay tuned for more episodes in our Supervisor Series—highlighting the voices and experiences of town leaders across New York State.

NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle sat down with New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey for a wide-ranging conversation on the challenges and opportunities facing towns across New York. We’re grateful for her leadership and support on initiatives such as SWAP and many others that make a real difference for our towns.

NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle sat down with New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli to discuss the vital role his office plays in supporting towns across New York.

NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle sat down with David Spiegel, Senior Vice President of Employee Benefits at Brown & Brown, to talk all things insurance — and announce a new partnership for towns across New York.This collaboration aims to provide municipalities with expanded resources, expert guidance, and tailored solutions to meet the unique insurance needs of local governments.

This week, we're joined by Jennifer Imo from the National Association of Towns and Townships (NATaT) to break down what's inside the so-called "Big Beautiful Bill" making waves in Washington. What does it mean for towns? From infrastructure to local funding priorities, Jennifer shares what you need to know.

A fan favorite returns! Back by popular demand (and from just two doors down), Sarah Brancatella is back on Talk of the Towns with a fresh legislative update you won’t want to miss. She’s breaking it all down with her signature style.

Assemblyman Billy Jones on Talk of the Towns In this insightful episode, Executive Director Chris Koetzle sits down with Assemblyman Billy Jones, Chair of the New York State Assembly’s Committee on Local Governments. They delve into the challenges facing towns across New York, discuss strategies to support local communities, and highlight Assemblyman Jones's collaborative efforts with NYAOT to strengthen municipal governance.

Want to learn how your town can capitalize on tourism?Tune in to today's episode of Talk of the Towns and hear from Bob Provost, President & CEO of New York State Tourism Industry Association, as he explains why tourism is everybody’s business — and how your community can benefit.

Talk of the Towns hit the road a couple of weeks ago at the 78th Annual School for Highway Superintendents in beautiful Ithaca, NY. NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle sat down with NYAOT President Mike Marinaccio, for a great conversation about the future of the association!

Talk of the Towns hit the road a couple of weeks ago at the 78th Annual School for Highway Superintendents in beautiful Ithaca, NY. NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle sat down with David Orr, Director and Senior Engineer of Nysltap Cornell Local Roads Program, for a great conversation about local roads, infrastructure, and the opportunities ahead for our towns.

In today’s episode, NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle sits down with Matt Horn, Strategic Growth & Business Development National Director at the MRB Group and Mark Blask, Senior Municipal Advisor at the MRB Group.https://regionalcouncils.ny.gov

In today’s episode, NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle sits down with Mary Steblein, PE, CPESC at LaBella Associates to discuss the MS 4 Program.

In today’s episode, NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle sits down with David Fleming, Chief Operating Officer at Featherstonhaugh and Town Supervisor of Nassau, to discuss a topic that many towns may unexpectedly face: cemeteries.From state regulations to management responsibilities, and what to do if a cemetery is abandoned and ends up under town control, this episode is packed with essential guidance for local officials. Whether your town already oversees a cemetery or could in the future, this conversation sheds light on the legal and practical issues you need to know.

Welcome to Talk of the Towns! Today's episode, hosted by NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle, features our very own and first guest, Sarah Brancatella, NYAOT Deputy Director. Learn about the NYS Budget, including what's in it, what's not, and NYAOT's perspective on the budget.

Welcome to Talk of the Towns! Today's episode, hosted by NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle, features guest Peter Baynes, NYMIR Executive Director.

Welcome to Talk of the Towns! Today's special episode celebrates NYAOT Executive Director Christopher Koetzle's one-year anniversary. Tune in to hear Koetzle's reflections on the year, new NYAOT projects, and responses to member questions. Thanks to Libby Schirmer for moderating.

Welcome to Talk of the Towns! Today's episode, hosted by NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle, features guest Johanna Porr, Orange County's Historian.

Welcome to Talk of the Towns! Today’s episode, hosted by NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle, features guest Barbara Van Epps, Executive Director of NYCOM.

Welcome to Talk of the Towns! Today’s episode, hosted by NYAOT Executive Director Chris Koetzle, features guest Michael Kenneally, Executive Director of the Comp Alliance.

Welcome to Talk of the Towns! Today's episode is hosted by NYAOT Executive Director, Chris Koetzle, and our guest is NYAOT's very own Cassie Rossi, the newest manager of NYMEF.

Welcome to Talk of the Towns! Today's episode is hosted by Chris Koetzle, NYAOT Executive Director, and Association Counsel, Katie Hodgdon.

Welcome to Talk of the Towns! Today's episode is hosted by Chris Koetzle, NYAOT Executive Director, and our guest is Tessa Sullivan, Senior Account Executive for Amazon.

Welcome to Talk of the Towns! Today's episode is hosted by Chris Koetzle, NYAOT's Executive Director, and our guest is Libby Schirmer, NYAOT's Director of Communications and Member Engagement.

Welcome to Talk of the Towns! Today's episode is hosted by Chris Koetzle, NYAOT's Executive Director, and our guest is Emily Kurtzner, NYAOT's Conference, Events and Education Planner.

What's the SWAP program and how will it impact your town? Learn more in Episode #2 of Talk of the Towns. Today's episode is hosted by Chris Koetzle, NYAOT's Executive Director, and Sarah Brancatella, NYAOT's Legislative & Deputy Director.

Welcome to Talk of the Towns! Today's episode is hosted by Chris Koetzle, NYAOT's Executive Director, and Sarah Brancatella, NYAOT's Legislative & Deputy Director.