The Albany Times Union reports that Democrat Andrea Smyth announced June 19 a campaign for Rensselaer County Executive. Republican incumbent County Executive Kathleen Jimino announced a few weeks ago that she would not seek another term, and Deputy County Executive Chris Meyer, and Assemblyperson Steve McLaughlin, both Republicans, are circulating petitions and seem destined for a September primary election. Smyth is executive director of the New York State Coalition for Children's Behavioral Health, and a graduate of the University of South Florida and the Rockefeller College Graduate School of Public Affairs and Policy at the University at Albany. She has unsuccessfully run for a Rensselaer County Legislature seat and a seat on the East Greenbush Town Board. "Andrea Smyth is an exemplary professional with decades of executive leadership experience and a keen understanding of the important role that county government plays in the lives of Rensselaer County residents," said County Democratic Chairman Michael Monescalchi. "Andrea is a smart and effective leader who will help our county reach its fullest potential." Nominating petitions are due at the county Board of Elections by July 13. Read the full story in The Albany Times Union.