Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone delivered his eighth State of the County address Wednesday, saying he is encouraged about the future.

Bellone started his address at Suffolk Community College by remembering those lost in the deadly Buffalo shooting.

"Tonight, we continue to grieve for those who were lost, for the Buffalo community and most importantly for the families who have been directly impacted by this incomprehensible act of hatred."

In addition to paying tribute to the victims of the Buffalo shooting, Bellone also honored the county workers he says stepped up during the height of the pandemic.

"The world came to a halt and Suffolk County was at the epicenter of the COVID-19 global pandemic in our state and nation.

Bellone says he also plans to establish a Human Resources Department for Suffolk.

"This government, one of the largest organizations in the region public or private, has operated without a fully functioning human resources department or division."

Bellone also says the county is working on expanding economic development, including multiple LIRR projects, sewer projects and improving water quality.

"If we don't protect our water quality, we will not have a prosperous future."

The county executive also announced an upcoming electric vehicle charging agreement that will allow county residents to charge their electric vehicles in the parking lots of the two dozen libraries located in all 10 towns.

Legislator Stephanie Bontempi delivered the GOP response.