The North Country Economic Development Council has already hit the ground running. Just one week after being created, the group had its first meeting Friday to discuss goals for the next three months. Our Rachael Paradis finds out what members think matters most to Northern New York.

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POTSDAM, N.Y. -- The North Country Economic Development Council has had just one meeting, but the 20 person group already knows opportunity is knocking.

"The Governor has passed the puck to us. It is our opportunity to go down and score, not just one goal, but many goals," said Clarkson University President Anthony Collins.

The council, which is led by Collins and North Country Chamber of Commerce President Garry Douglas, also has many elected officials on board.

The first meeting at SUNY Potsdam Friday was closed to the public, but those on the council say it was a great way to get to know each other.

"And to reconfirm what we already know about this region. Its terrific assets, particularly its natural assets, the energy. Not just the renewable energy and other resources, but the energy of the people," Collins said.

"Hopefully, none of them are being scared off by the work that we outlined. I know none of them are because they are all hard workers that are dedicated and ready for the task," Douglas said.

This is just one of ten councils created by Governor Cuomo working together to make a five year plan that will spur job creation in New York State. But the councils will also be competing for a share of the one billion dollars set aside for the effort.

Many on the North Country council say they're already seeing eye to eye on the biggest problem in the area, which is young people leaving to start their lives elsewhere.

"Create a future that allows us to retain our bright young students that we attracted here or that have grown up locally," Collins said.

Collins and others say bringing jobs, jobs and more jobs to the area will help keep people in the North Country and secure a sustainable economy.

The regional councils are due to hold meetings over the next few months. Their final proposals are due in Albany by November 14th. The Lieutenant Governor promises future meetings will be open to the public.