Ulster County News

FROM: ULSTER COUNTY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE

DATE: November 21, 2002  

Ulster County Legislature Chairman Ward Todd today announced the appointment of a special committee on County Government Efficiency and Reform. Majority Leader Richard Gerentine will chair the committee to be comprised of Legislators Glenn Noonan, Linda Bertone, Alan Lomita and John Naccarato.

According to Chairman Todd, "This committee is being established at a time of unprecedented financial constraints. Unfunded mandates, including Medicaid, are directly responsible for Ulster County’s current budget crisis. With no relief in sight, we must study the effectiveness and efficiency of every department of government."

Todd explained that 68% of the County’s budget is mandated, leaving only 32% that County lawmakers actually control. This includes County road repairs and maintenance, the Sheriff’s Road Patrol, the Golden Hill Health Care Center, and programs for senior citizens and youth. According to Todd, "These are services and programs that have a direct impact on our citizens and their quality of life. We need to determine if there is a better, more efficient way to provide these services."

Chairman Todd, in a directive to Committee members, suggested their study include the possible consolidation of departments, streamlining of services, privatization of services, elimination of services, review of all contracts, as well as the sale of County assets. The committee will report its findings and recommendations to the Ways and Means Committee.

Chairman Todd was urged to form this committee by members of the Republican Legislative Caucus at a recent meeting to discuss the 2003 and 2004 County budgets. Next year’s budget, if adopted as prepared, would increase property taxes an average of $48.00 per household.