UTICA, N.Y. - The Upstate Jobs Party held a regional policy forum to discuss ways to try and keep young people from leaving the area.

The forum was held at the Clark City Center on Genesee Street Wednesday.

A panel discussion was held on policy issues impacting entrepreneurial growth in Upstate New York.

Among the panelists were, Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente, Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri, and Little Falls Mayor Mark Blask.

Upstate Jobs Party founder Martin Babinec says it takes an entire community to come together to reverse the outflow of our Upstate talent and create jobs for a stronger future.

"Too often times the idea of attracting companies to come in and create jobs is thought of as the only solution," Babinec said. "We in the upstate jobs party believe there are many things that the local community can do to create an environment in which local talent can be involved in both starting and growing companies."

Charles Green, CEO of Assured Information Security in Rome also gave a presentation.