Sullivan County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Sullivan County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
I Love New York tourism matching funds application
The Visitor's Association wants to tap into New York State's matching-funds program for tourism promotion. State money means more marketing power for Sullivan County's tourism economy, but the county has to commit local matching dollars.
Election Administration Update
The Board of Elections will report to the committee, offering a look at how elections are being run and resourced in the county.
First Responder Mental Health Training
A proposed purchase order would bring in PF Volkmann & Associates to deliver critical incident stress management and suicide prevention training — a direct investment in the wellbeing of police, fire, EMS and dispatch personnel.
Workforce development programs
The Division of Community Resources reports monthly on workforce development — training and job-placement efforts that connect residents to local employers.
Fire Loss Investigation and Community Risk Reduction Grant
The county wants to tap a three-year state grant program for fire investigation and community risk reduction work. Accepting the award could expand fire prevention and investigation capacity without local dollars.
Mortgage recording tax increase and IDA exemptions
The mortgage tax doubles to 50 cents per $100, but a commenter pushed for limits on Industrial Development Agency exemptions so new revenue isn't given away; legislators agreed to revisit the issue.
Fort Delaware Museum operations agreement
The committee will consider an agreement with The Delaware Company to keep Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History running and to provide programming and events at Minisink Battleground Park. It's about keeping a historic site open and active for visitors and locals.
Broadband Expansion Update
Sullivan County is giving a public update on its broadband expansion in Narrowsburg on Nov. 5. If your home internet is spotty, this is a chance to hear what’s planned and when. The source doesn’t include funding or timeline details yet.
Substance abuse prevention and recovery housing
The county proclaimed October as Substance Abuse Prevention Month and honored Oxford House, whose peer-run recovery housing operates residences in Sullivan County.
County investigation services spending oversight
Members clashed over an open-ended agreement for outside investigations, calling it a blank check, before capping one pending case at $50,000 and promising a deeper policy review next month — including how much has been spent and whether investigations should be in person.
Senior citizens and disabled veterans property tax exemptions
A proposed local law would give seriously disabled veterans a real property tax exemption, with a public hearing set for November 19 at 10:25 a.m.
Human Rights Commission activity
The commission has received 21 complaints since April, sustained five (including discrimination and housing retaliation cases), and is working with HUD on Monticello Housing Authority tenant issues, plus planning community events for December and early 2027.
Mobile Home Park Management
Sullivan County’s troubled mobile home park could soon get a temporary manager, a move that matters for residents living with bad conditions. If you care about housing oversight or live nearby, this is one to watch.
Broadband Expansion
Sullivan County is getting high-speed internet built out across the area, and officials are calling it 'completely transformational.' If you live or run a business there, this could mean faster connections, more remote-work options, and better access to online services.
County Care Center Operations
A judge says the Sullivan County Care Center can’t close yet, so operations will continue while the legal fight plays out. If you have a loved one there—or work there—the next steps matter a lot.
Solar Energy Debate
Sullivan County’s solar debate isn’t just about panels—it’s about whether the Catskills grid can keep the lights on during extreme heat. That means your power bills and summer reliability are on the line.
Senior Care Center Closure
Sullivan County residents are fighting a plan to close a local senior care center. For families who depend on it for elder care, the closure could force them to scramble for alternatives farther away or pay more. The pushback signals this is becoming a local political issue.
Adult Care Center Closure
Sullivan County is closing its Adult Care Center, which is a big deal for families who depend on it for senior care. If you have an aging loved one, this could change where and how they get care.
SNAP policy impact on county costs
Sullivan County’s former health commissioner says upcoming SNAP changes will push more costs and work onto New York counties, including Sullivan. That could squeeze county budgets and slow down help for residents who depend on county services.
Solar Farm Opposition
A candidate for New York governor is publicly opposing a proposed solar farm in Forestburgh, turning the project into a local political flashpoint. That attention could influence how town and county officials handle approvals and related decisions.
County Grant Program Recognition
Sullivan County’s grant program just got top honors, which is basically a gold star for how local tax dollars are awarded to community projects. The recognition doesn’t hand out new money, but it signals the process is being noticed for doing things right.
Flooding
Heavy flooding is closing roads and hitting businesses across Sullivan County. If you're heading out, expect detours and check road conditions first.
Airport Services Contract
Sullivan County’s international airport is looking for a vendor to provide services for small private aircraft—basically general aviation. If you fly small planes or care about how county-owned property is managed, this contract is worth watching. The source doesn’t spell out the cost or full scope yet.