Monroe County introduces Honoring Our Workers Leisure for Less Week offering families discounts at the Seneca Park Zoo reduced golf course fees and waived permits for temporary food vendors

Monroe County, New York – In recognition of Labor Day, Monroe County officials are rolling out a new initiative designed to put more leisure opportunities within reach for residents across the region. County Executive Adam Bello, joined by leaders from the Monroe County Legislature, announced the start of Honoring Our Workers – Leisure for Less Week, a program aimed at lowering costs at some of the county’s most popular attractions and activities.

The initiative, unanimously approved by legislators in August, will run from September 1 through September 7. During that time, families, seniors, and community members of all ages can take advantage of reduced admission at the Seneca Park Zoo, special green fees at Monroe County golf courses, and waived permit fees for temporary food vendors. The goal, leaders say, is to provide a well-earned break for the workforce that keeps the county running while also boosting participation in local events and activities.

“Labor Day is about honoring the skills, dedication and hard work of the members of our community that keep our county and country going strong,” said County Executive Bello. “Leisure for Less Week is our way of saying ‘thank you’ — by making it easier for everyone to enjoy the parks, attractions, and events that make Monroe County special. I’m grateful to the County Legislature for passing this equitable initiative that both celebrates our residents and supports our local economy.”

A Week To Recognize The Value Of Work

The message from county officials is clear: the contributions of everyday workers deserve to be acknowledged not just in words, but in actions. By temporarily lowering costs for activities that many residents might otherwise skip, the county hopes to create opportunities for people to celebrate Labor Day week with family and neighbors.

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“Everyday people work hard, pay their taxes and deserve the chance to enjoy the services their dollars already support,” said Republican Leader Steve Brew. “‘Leisure for Less Week’ makes it easier for families, seniors, and residents of all ages to take advantage of the attractions that make Monroe County special. It’s also a fitting way to celebrate Labor Day – honoring the hard work of our residents by giving something back to taxpayers.”

Legislature President Yversha Román emphasized how the initiative ties directly to the spirit of the holiday. “In honor of Labor Day, ‘Leisure for Less’ celebrates the workforce that keeps Monroe County moving and ensures working families can enjoy some county amenities together,” Román said. “By lowering fees at the zoo, golf courses, and for food vendors, we’re making services more affordable and strengthening community events that bring us together. This is about honoring the dignity of work while ensuring more County residents have the chance to share in the experiences that make our county special.”

For Democratic Leader Michael Yudelson, accessibility was at the heart of his support. “I was proud to vote in the affirmative and support ‘Leisure for Less’ Week. Everyone should be able to enjoy our county’s parks and attractions,” he said. “‘Leisure for Less’ breaks down cost barriers and allows every resident to enjoy the things that make Monroe County special, continuing our county’s commitment to accessibility and equity.”

Discounts Across County Attractions

The program covers three major areas: golf, the Seneca Park Zoo, and food vendor fees. Golfers who hit the links between September 1 and September 7 will see some of the steepest savings.

At Durand Eastman, Genesee Valley, and Churchville golf courses, weekday green fees are set at $11 for nine holes and $14 for 18 holes. On weekends, the price increases only slightly, to $12 for nine holes and $15 for 18. Permit play is even more affordable, with rounds priced at $7 for nine holes and $8 for 18. Cart rentals will also see reduced rates, at $6 for nine holes and $13 for 18, while club rentals range from as low as $2 for junior sets to $11 for adult clubs.

The Seneca Park Zoo is joining in with discounted admission. During Leisure for Less Week, tickets will be just $11 per adult, $10 for seniors, and $9 for youth, making it easier for families to plan a day of learning and recreation.

Temporary food vendors, meanwhile, will have all permit fees waived during the week. The waiver applies to both high and medium-risk establishments, as well as those classified as low risk. County officials believe this step will encourage more participation at festivals, fairs, and local gatherings, adding to the festive spirit of the holiday week.

Honoring Work And Strengthening Community

Labor Day has long been a time to celebrate workers’ contributions, but Monroe County leaders see this initiative as a practical way to give something back. By making leisure activities more affordable, they hope to create not just a week of recreation, but also a renewed sense of community connection.

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The program’s backers point out that affordability remains a real concern for many families, especially when it comes to recreational activities. By temporarily removing financial barriers, they argue, the county is not only showing gratitude but also reinforcing the idea that shared public spaces, parks, and cultural institutions should be accessible to all.

From the fairways of Churchville to the walking paths of the zoo, residents will find opportunities to enjoy time outdoors, explore local attractions, and support small vendors — all while saving money. For leaders across the political spectrum, that is the kind of investment worth making.

As County Executive Bello put it, the aim is simple but meaningful: to thank Monroe County’s workforce in a way that families, seniors, and individuals will feel directly in their daily lives.