Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. will deliver his 2026 State of the County Address on Tuesday, April 21, though not before the Chautauqua County Legislature as has been tradition for decades.

This year, Wendel will host the speech in partnership with the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce at a breakfast meeting at 8 a.m. April 21 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Jamestown. The morning will include a moderated question-and-answer session led by Dan Heitzenrater, chamber president and CEO.

“Chautauqua County is on a strong and steady path forward,” Wendel said. “We’ve made real progress by focusing on what matters most–strengthening our economy, investing in our communities, and delivering results for our residents.”

Wendel’s remarks will highlight accomplishments from the past year while outlining a strategic vision for continued economic growth, infrastructure investment, and enhanced quality of life across Chautauqua County.

“As we look to the future, our focus remains clear — building a stronger, more prosperous county for the next generation,” Wendel said. “This is about continuing the momentum we’ve built together and ensuring Chautauqua County remains a place where people want to live, work, and raise a family.”

Traditionally, the State of the County Address is delivered to the Chautauqua County Legislature. That tradition will continue this year, with a recording of the address to be presented during the legislature’s regular meeting on Wednesday, April 22, at 6:30 p.m.

“We’re excited to incorporate the State of the County address into the chamber’s annual County Executive Breakfast this year,” Heitzenrater said. “We hope adding the address will encourage more of the public to engage with the ‘State of Chautauqua County’ and guide a substantive Q&A session based on the most up-to-date information from County Executive Wendel.”

A recording of the full presentation will also be made available online at chqgov.com.

The April 21 event also offers attendees the opportunity to network with local leaders and stakeholders while gaining insight into the direction of county government. Registration is $30 for Chamber members and $35 for non-members. For more information or to register, visit the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce website at chqchamber.org.