William Conrad’s Vision, Policy Positions, and Allies: Digital Equity Advocacy

Vision & Regional Goals

Assemblymember William (Bill) Conrad III represents New York’s 140th Assembly District, comprising Kenmore, Tonawanda, and the Town of Tonawanda in Erie County. A lifelong Western New Yorker, educator, and veteran local official, Conrad’s vision is anchored in building strong communities through sustainability, innovation, and education. He advocates for practical government, opportunity for youth and families, and responsive policy that prepares his district for a resilient future.

Core Vision and Priorities

• Strong Public Education & Workforce: Focuses on securing full funding for schools, supporting digital literacy, and preparing youth for tomorrow’s jobs through robust career and technical education.
• Sustainability & Clean Energy: Led award-winning local clean energy campaigns and infrastructure upgrades; prioritizes policies advancing clean power, environmental stewardship, and local economic opportunity via green tech.
• Economic Innovation: Champions business-friendly reforms, youth workforce development, and regional investment to keep Western NY competitive and attractive for families and entrepreneurs.
• Community Safety & Responsive Government: Promotes law enforcement support, transparent public service, and government that truly listens to and solves local issues.
• Inclusive Community: Fosters equity, digital opportunity, and practical reforms to serve residents of all ages and backgrounds.

Policy Positions (Comprehensive List)

• Digital Equity & Broadband:
  • Advocates universal digital access and literacy as foundational for modern education, economic opportunity, and government transparency.
  • Supports statewide and local initiatives expanding wired broadband, affordable internet, and devices for students and underserved families.
  • Fought for targeted digital inclusion programs in schools and public libraries; backs ConnectALL and federal/state partnerships to close the digital divide.
  • Prioritizes digital access for seniors and vulnerable populations, seeing connectivity as essential for health, social services, and civic participation.
• Education & Workforce Development:
  • Chair of the Assembly’s Legislative Commission on Skills Development and Career Education.
  • Supports innovative curriculum reform, funding for career and technical education, and practical digital skills for all students.
• Clean Energy & Climate Resilience:
  • Led local Solarize Tonawanda, landfill solar field projects, and clean energy upgrades.
  • Advocates for state and federal investments in renewable energy infrastructure.
• Economic Development:
  • Promotes collaboration with business, labor, and youth; prioritizes regional economic planning and investment in new industries.
• Public Safety:
  • Former law enforcement leader, active in securing state funding for emergency services and infrastructure.

Opportunities in Digital Equity

• Economic Expansion: Broadband supports business, entrepreneurship, remote work, and youth workforce entry in Tonawanda/Kenmore.
• Educational Success: Reliable digital access empowers students and educators, closes achievement gaps, and drives local workforce readiness.
• Social Inclusion: Digital infrastructure connects seniors, families, and new Americans to vital information, telehealth, and community resources.
• Resilient Communities: Online access improves disaster response, public safety coordination, and community engagement.