Earlier this week, Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel set an agenda for the coming months by issuing his State of the County address in Mayville.

All things considered, many of the priorities that need attention on the New York state side, are just as important to residents here.

On location alone, there are plenty of similarities between the two counties. The biggest thing that separates us, truly, is the border that leads to different ways of governing, fees and laws.

Other than that, both entities are stoutly Republican in their politics while dealing with a Democratic governor that often can go too far left.

Some of those local struggles that need attention include:

¯ Major population declines since 1980. That theme has taken on even greater significance due to the growing number of positions going unfilled in businesses and manufacturers. No matter how much companies are investing in Warren County, if finding workers is a problem, that means there will be fewer shifts and sales.

≤ A push for more regional efforts, especially when it comes to Emergency Medical Services.

≤ Renewable energy. In Chautauqua County, the question is how much wind and solar is too much? While the county Industrial Development Agency there continues to approve tax incentives for numerous projects — mainly those in the north county region, there are concerns percolating about the loss of prime agricultural property as well as scenic landscapes. Is a hands off approach still what is best? Here in Warren County, the issue is just starting to get off the ground, especially with solar.

≤ A vision for the next 10 years. Where do we want to be in 2030? We are well aware of our current struggles and controversies, which include the roundabout, but there needs to be a bigger picture that includes the building on the river front while continuing to promote the great outdoors.

Wendel’s tone for his county this week was optimism. With the natural resources we have here, there is just as much reason to believe that brighter days are ahead.

John D’Agostino is the editor of the Times Observer, The Post-Journal and OBSERVER in Dunkirk, N.Y.. Send comments to jdagostino@observertoday.com or call 814-723-8200, ext. 253.