NYSAC Finance Director Dave Lucas Honored By County Finance Officials

By Tom Oldfather, NYSAC Communications Manager

The New York State County Treasurers and Finance Officers Association presented its annual President's Award to Dave Lucas, the Director of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs for the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC).

“Dave Lucas is a great resource for all of our counties. He knows the budget process at both the state and county levels, and the intricacies of how state programs impact county budgets. He is always available to provide information, analysis, and advice for county fiscal officers,” said Nancy Buck, President of the County Treasurers Association.

“I am honored and humbled to receive this recognition by the NYS Treasurers and Finance Officers Association. Managing public finance is a complex job and very important to the local taxpayers. We have seen dramatic swings in state and local finance over the past few years and it will remain a challenging environment for us all. I would like to acknowledge the important work of local finance officers as this award is given to me,” said Lucas.

The President's Award was presented at the 56th annual County Finance School in Syracuse this week. The award recognizes individuals for their dedication and hard work on behalf of the association.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have someone one our team with Dave's unparalleled understanding of the state budget and its impact on local governments. He can break down the state spending plan better than anyone else in the state," said NYSAC Executive Director Stephen Acquario.

Dave joined NYSAC in 2010 as an expert on Medicaid and state and local fiscal issues, including the dozens of state programs that counties are mandated to implement. Prior to joining NYSAC, Dave worked as a Deputy Director of Federal Relations for the State of California in Washington, D.C., working on congressional and federal policy issues. Prior to that, he worked for the New York State Division of Budget on federal relations. Dave Lucas, NYSAC Director of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs and Nancy Buck , Sullivan County Treasurer and President of the NYS County Treasurers Association

"His dedication, expertise and steady hand have been indispensable to our members, especially during the pandemic when counties were faced with a potential fiscal catastrophe, and have benefitted the residents of our state more than they'll ever know,” said Acquario.

County Finance School is co-sponsored by the County Treasurers association, the Office of the NYS Comptroller, and the New York State Association of Counties.