ALBANY COUNTY — Several local groups are receiving funds as part of Round XIII of the Regional Economic Development Council Initiative, which is dispensing over $23 million to support 101 communities statewide.

The town of Bethlehem is receiving $90,000 for its Smart Growth zoning law updates, following the recommendations of its 2022 comprehensive plan update.

“The zoning law update is to implement the balance between the urban, suburban, and rural perspectives, the desire for economic growth, and the stewardship of finite land and environmental resources,” according to the grant application.

Currently, the town is seeking seven residents to serve on five different boards, including two on the zoning board, one on the planning board, one on the board that reviews conservation easements, one on the board that reviews assessments, and two on the ethics board.

A notice on the town’s website says that interested residents should email a résumé and letter explaining qualifications and the reasons for wanting to serve by Dec. 3 to Stacy Agosta at the Town Supervisor’s Office, .

“Please do not note your registration in a political party as this has not been and will not be a factor in the Town Board’s decision-making process,” says the notice.

In Albany

The two other Albany County entities to receive funds — Maria College and Pearl Over Look Corporation — are getting $800,000 each.

The college will “renovate and expand its stimulation and skills lab, add two new nursing simulation labs with high fidelity manikins,hospital equipment, and virtual-reality software,” according to the grant.

This will allow Maria College to increase its nursing-school enrollment to 175 to 250 nursing professionals each year.

Four high-rise towers make up Steamboat Square in Albany. The first and second floors of two of the towers will be outfitted as commercial space by the Albany Housing Authority working with Pearl Over Look Corporation.

“An investment in smart growth and sustainable community development is an investment that will pay dividends for generations to come,” Governor Kthy Hochul said in a release announcing the grants. “These programs are essential elements in the State’s bold, innovative efforts to create a more prosperous, equitable and sustainable future for New Yorkers of all backgrounds, incomes and abilities.”

— Melissa Hale-Spencer