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A Message from Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger |
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Dear Friends,
We’re coming into one of the most beautiful seasons in Ulster County as temperatures cool and the leaves begin to turn. I hope you have an opportunity to get out and enjoy an afternoon at some of our County’s many parks and scenic trails.
This week is Climate Solutions Week, and we’re unveiling a new off-the-grid solar-powered electric vehicle charger, which in December will be placed at the County’s Ashokan Trail parking lot in Boiceville. The unveiling will be at its current location at 1061 Development Court in Kingston on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at 11 am, and we’ll also be highlighting initiatives we’ve launched to address climate change and strengthen our resilience to its impacts.
Read on for news about the appointment of a new Public Health Director, a grant opportunity for homeowners, our County’s latest emergency preparedness exercise, and more!
All my best,
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Recent News & Events
Ulster County Appoints Dr. Eve Walter as Director of Public Health
Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger is pleased to announce the appointment of epidemiologist Dr. Eve Walter as the new Director of Public Health, pending confirmation by the County Legislature. Dr. Walter brings over 25 years of experience in public health research and leadership, making her an excellent choice for this important role. With a background in epidemiology, community health, and health equity, she is well-positioned to advance Ulster County’s health initiatives.
Dr. Walter holds a Ph.D. in Epidemiology from SUNY Albany and serves as Senior Director of Research and Evaluation at AllianceChicago and Associate Professor of Research at Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine. Her expertise spans chronic disease management, women’s health, and addressing health disparities. Her prior experience as an Ulster County Legislator, including as Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee, gives her a unique understanding of local health needs and government operations.
Pending legislative approval in October, Dr. Walter will step into the role previously held by Dr. Carol Smith, continuing the County’s commitment to improving public health and expanding services.
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Applications Opened on Sept. 17 for $5M in Grants to Build Affordable Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
Ulster County homeowners can receive up to $125,000 in financial assistance for constructing or renovating affordable Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) through the ‘Plus One’ Program. The program aims to increase affordable housing options while providing homeowners living on modest incomes with additional income to pay the bills. If you are a resident of one of the eight participating municipalities listed below, you can apply for a grant from Sept. 17 to Nov. 18. Priority will be given to shovel-ready projects submitted by October 14. Homeowners can learn more by attending upcoming public workshops:
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Village of New Paltz/Town of Lloyd – Wednesday, Sept. 18, 7 PM at New Paltz Village Hall
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Town of Rosendale – Tuesday, Sept. 24, 6 PM at Rosendale Community Center
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Village of Ellenville – Wednesday, Sept. 25, 6 PM at Ellenville Village Office
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City of Kingston/Town of Ulster – Thursday, Sept. 26, 6 PM at Kingston Library
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Town of Woodstock – Tuesday, Oct. 1, 6 PM at Woodstock Community Center
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Town of Saugerties – Monday, Oct. 7, 6 PM at Saugerties Library
Ulster County Awards Solar & EV Charging Grants to 10 Municipalities
Ulster County is helping local governments transition to clean energy with a $2.5M Solar & Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (SEVI) program funded by the County’s share of American Rescue Plan Act funds, and we recently announced 12 grants to 10 municipalities for local clean energy projects.
The County’s SEVI program offered grants of up to $100,000 per municipality for solar installations and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, with a required 50% match from state, federal, and/or local sources. The following municipalities applied and were awarded funding for local projects: Town and Village of New Paltz, Lloyd, Hurley, Marbletown, Marlborough, Rosendale, Shandaken, Ulster, and the City of Kingston.
We are happy to share that the solar projects funded through this program will collectively generate more than 1.7 million kWh annually, eliminating 1,188 metric tons of CO2 emissions. A second round of applications will open in 2025 for municipally owned EV charging stations, with a focus addressing gaps in public access to charging around the County.
Strengthening Ulster County’s Emergency Preparedness with ‘Tabletop’ Drill
Ulster County is all about emergency preparedness, and on Sept. 7 the Emergency Services Department conducted a simulated mass casualty drill. This tabletop exercise, held at HealthAlliance Hospital, brought together EMS, fire departments, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and County officials to respond to a realistic and challenging mass casualty scenario on a major roadway.
The drill tested participants' ability to handle triage, resource allocation, and communication in a high-stakes situation. By working together, these agencies strengthened their coordination and response strategies, ensuring Ulster County is better prepared for real-world emergencies. This exercise is part of ongoing efforts to enhance community safety and ensure that first responders are ready to act swiftly and effectively when needed.
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Ulster County Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15, and Ulster County kicked off the recognition in front of the County Office Building with a formal Proclamation from the County Executive and City of Kingston Mayor, cultural performances, and a Parade of Flags by children representing different Hispanic nations.
Hispanic Heritage Month is a great way to recognize and celebrate the rich heritage, culture, and contributions of our Hispanic and Latino communities. Check out other events around the County this month, including:
- Thursday, September 26 - “Back to Las Villas” Documentary and Panel Discussion at Hudson Valley Water Sports (438 Abeel Street) in Kingston, 6 PM - 8 PM
- Saturday, October 5 - Hispanic Heritage Festival Block Party on Franklin Street in Kingston, 11 AM - 5 PM
- Saturday, October 5 - Hispanic Heritage Festival Afterparty at Hudson Valley Water Sports (438 Abeel Street) in Kingston, 5 PM
- Saturday, October 12 - A Community Quinceañera at CCE Rooftop (16 Cedar Street) in Kingston, 6 PM - 9 PM
- Friday, October 18 - Hispanic Experience at Hudson Valley Water Sports (438 Abeel Street) in Kingston, 6 PM
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It’s Adult Literacy Week in Ulster County!
In honor of Ulster County Adult Literacy Week, we recognize the importance of adult literacy in empowering individuals and strengthening our community. With over 25,000 residents in Ulster County working to improve their literacy skills, organizations like the Ulster Literacy Association play a vital role in providing personalized instruction in reading, writing, and English communication.
This week, we celebrate the 100 dedicated volunteer tutors and nearly 400 learners who are transforming lives through education, inspiring a ripple effect of positive change in our community.
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Job Openings in the Ulster County Health Department
Ready to make a positive impact in public health? Ulster County's Health Department is hiring for a variety of rewarding positions to help safeguard the health and well-being of our community. Explore these exciting career opportunities and apply today through the civil service portal. Help us spread the word about these important roles:
- Associate Public Health Engineer ($55.40/hour)
- Clinical Laboratory Technologist ($60.34/hour)
- Director of Public Health Nursing Services ($56.46/hour)
- Nurse Practitioner ($65.93/hour)
- Physician ($121.86/hour)
- Public Health Technician ($25.44/hour)
- Registered Nurse ($39.67/hour)
- Supervising Public Health Nurse ($48.76/hour)
The Ulster County Government strictly adheres to the principles of the Equal Employment Opportunity Act and Americans with Disability Act
Register to Vote!
Are you registered to vote? If not, now’s the perfect time to make sure your voice is heard in the upcoming November election! Get registered today–your vote matters!
Join us for a Trauma-Informed Yoga Series
The Ulster County Crime Victims Assistance Program (CVAP) invites you to attend ‘Stress Reduction: Techniques and Tools,’ a 4-class series featuring trauma-informed yoga practices to soothe and calm your nervous system, with Guide Shawn Harrison (she/her).
🗓️ Wednesday Evenings, September 4 - 25
🕡 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
📍 Good Work Institute, 65 Saint James Street, Kingston
All are welcome. No experience, special clothing, or equipment is needed. For more information, call the CVAP offices at (845) 340-3443.
Protect your Pet and your Family from the Rabies Virus!
The Ulster County SPCA will host a free rabies vaccine clinic for pets on Friday, September 20, from 11 AM to 1 PM. Things to know:
- No appointment is required (first-come, first-served basis).
- Only rabies vaccination services are provided during the clinic.
- Dogs must be on a leash.
- Cats must be in a suitable carrier without exception.
- Bring any previous rabies vaccination records, if available.
For inquiries, visit www.ucspca.org/clinic/vaccine or call (845) 331-5377 ext. 216.
Looking for Foster Homes - Make a Difference in a Child’s Life!
Join our monthly Foster Parent Orientation to learn about foster care and how you can help. You'll get comprehensive info on the joys and responsibilities of fostering.
🗓️ Tuesday, October 1
🕔 5:30 PM - 6: 30 PM
📍 Department of Social Services (1091 Development Court, Kingston, NY)
Orientations are held on the first Tuesday of every month. To attend, please call ahead to confirm your spot with a Home Finder: (845) 334-5400.
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Join Us On the Nature Bus - Upcoming Routes for September 21 & 28
Take advantage of Ulster County’s free Nature Bus to visit one of our County's amazing natural attractions! Walk, hike, bike, swim, picnic, and explore at some of our County’s outdoor destination favorites.
📅 Saturday, September 21 - Mountain Route
📍 Ashokan Rail Trail (Activities include: Walking and Biking)
📍 Catskills Visitor Center (Activities include: Walking and Fire Tower Climb)
📅 Saturday, September 28 - River Route
📍 Kingston Point Beach (Activities include: Walking, Biking, Swimming, and Playground)
📍 Sojourner Truth State Park (Activities include: Walking, Hiking, and Biking)
📍 Shaupeneak Ridge (Activities include: Walking, Hiking, and Biking)
📍 Walkway Over the Hudson State Park (Activities include: Walking and Biking)
📍 Black Creek Preserve (Activities include: Walking and Biking)
📍 Esopus Meadows Preserve (Activities include: Walking and Hiking)
The bus and destinations are FREE to the public, plus the bus is equipped with a bike rack (first come, first served.) The 2024 Nature Bus season ends after Saturday, October 12.
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We Want your Input! Comment on the Ulster County Human Service Transportation Draft Plan
The draft of the Human Service Transportation Plan is now open for public review and comments through September 27! This plan is intended to enhance transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities in Ulster County.
🗓️ Comment Deadline: Friday, September 27
📥 View the Draft & Submit Feedback - We invite you to share your feedback and help shape the future of accessible transportation in our community
For questions, contact Brian Slack at blsa@co.ulster.ny.us or (845) 334-5590.
AED Grant Program: Enhancing Safety for Youth Camps and Sports Programs
Ulster County's AED Grant Program is now available to support youth sports programs and summer camps in meeting new state safety requirements. Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, this $250,000 initiative offers up to $5,000 per non-profit organization to assist with purchasing Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) and training staff in their use. With the recent amendment to New York State Public Health Law mandating AEDs and certified personnel at these programs, the grant ensures that non-profit camps and youth sports programs are well-equipped to handle cardiac emergencies. Grant Details:
- Up to $5,000 per organization for AEDs and training
- Available to non-profit camps and youth sports programs that are not municipally operated
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Application deadline: October 15, 2024
- A Cardiac Emergency Implementation Plan is required to apply.
For more information, email AEDGrant@co.ulster.ny.us or apply here.
Three Grant Opportunities for Community Organizations
- Local organizations that uplift our community through work in health, education, children’s recreation, the arts, and more can apply for support through Stewart’s Shops. Stewart’s awards community organizations with grants to deliver the maximum positive impact by delivering a service to those in need. They also offer a Matching Gift Campaign toward specific projects. The campaign can be for one week in two shops or two weeks in one shop, where they match customers’ contributions for a particular project up to $5,000.
- The Neuland Grant Program is offering four $5,000 grants to organizations in Ulster County “that create meaningful connections between people.” Applications are due by October 15.
- Partners for Climate Action is offering Ecological Restoration Grants of $1,000 to $50,000 that address at risk pollinator habitat and forest health. Applications will be accepted until October 25.
This information is being provided for the benefit of Ulster Residents, these programs are not operated or controlled by the County of Ulster.
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