Pictured above L to R: Senior Deputy County Attorney Conrad Pasquale, Director of IT Tom Lannon, Chairman of the County Legislature Paul Jonke, County Executive Kevin Byrne (seated), Commissioner of DGS John Tully, and Deputy County Executive Jim Burpoe

10 July 2024

Carmel, NY – Earlier this month, Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne signed into law the legislation that reorganizes the Departments of Purchasing, IT, and Central Services into one unified department; the Department of General Services (DGS). The legislation was unanimously approved by the Putnam County Legislature, marking a significant step towards enhanced efficiency and cost savings for county operations.

"This Administration is always seeking new and creative ways to prioritize spending, enhance efficiencies, and realize savings for taxpayers," said County Executive Kevin Byrne. "The formation of the Department of General Services is a testament to our commitment to these principles. By centralizing expenditures and services under one department, we have already saved hundreds of thousands of dollars. This move not only streamlines operations but also leverages our purchasing power to secure better deals and rates."

The Department of General Services aims to provide a more cohesive and efficient management structure for county operations. By uniting the talents and resources of the Purchasing, Central Services, and IT departments, Putnam County will be able to better manage its operations and create more opportunities for savings and efficiencies across the board.

This move is the second County Department reorganization under the Byrne Administration, following the conversion of the Department of Highways & Facilities into the Department of Public Works. The creation of DGS represents the most significant County Charter change in recent history. 

Deputy County Executive Jim Burpoe, who previously served as Orange County’s Commissioner of General Services, was instrumental in the formation of the new Putnam County Department. Burpoe stated: "This is not a new idea or revolutionary concept in county government; it’s just new for Putnam County. Other counties and the state have already realized significant savings through similar centralizations. Our executive staff and department leaders have worked tirelessly to ensure this transition does not incur additional costs, and I am confident that this move will benefit Putnam County for years to come."

Paul Jonke, Chairman of the Legislature, stated: "The unanimous approval of this legislation by the Legislature underscores our collective belief in the benefits of centralization. The Department of General Services will enable us to operate more effectively and provide better services to our residents while realizing significant cost savings."

John Tully, the newly named Commissioner of the DGS, shared his vision: "IT, Purchasing, and Central Services touch every department and operation in county government. By combining our talents, we will improve county operations and achieve greater efficiencies. I am honored to be Commissioner of this new department and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our county."

Tom Lannon, Director of IT, added: "The formal recognition of IT/GIS within our County Charter is a significant step forward. By integrating our highly skilled workforce into the Department of General Services, we can leverage our full strength and continue to enhance our technological capabilities and services."

For more information about the Department of General Services and its initiatives, please contact the Putnam County Executive's Office at (845) 808-1001 or visit our website at www.putnamcountyny.com.