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A Message from Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger |
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Dear Friends,
When our residents dial 911 for a medical emergency, they rightly expect trained and well-equipped emergency medical services personnel to come to the scene in a timely manner to provide immediate care and if necessary, transport them to the hospital. We have many dedicated agencies and professionals in Ulster County, but unfortunately, we are facing critical gaps in service due to increases in costs and a decline in volunteers over time. This is something we must address, especially as our population ages and the needs grow. This will not be solved overnight, but fortunately, our Ulster County Department of Emergency Services has developed a plan to address immediate needs and a pathway forward for long-term sustainability of this vital service.
You can read about this proposed plan and other County news below!
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Recent News & Events
County Executive Presents Proposal for EMS Coordinated Coverage Plan
County Executive Jen Metzger and Emergency Services Director Everett Erichsen held a press conference on March 26 at the New Paltz Rescue Squad to present a proposal for a new EMS Coordinated Coverage Plan to address critical service gaps and enhance emergency response. The plan includes a proposed $4.9 million County investment in the cost of readiness of EMS agencies, the purchase of life-saving equipment, and training, certification, and incentive programs to address workforce shortages. Key components include:
- $2.8 million to support core Advanced Life Support (ALS) agencies, which handle nearly two-thirds of 911 calls.
- $1.6 million to bolster EMS core service for municipalities with EMS contracts and incentivize high response rates.
- $500,000 in equipment grants for Basic Life Support (BLS) agencies to provide a higher level of patient care, with training provided by the County.
- EMS training and certification programs, including a partnership with SUNY Ulster, to expand the pool of local EMS practitioners.
Funding for the plan requires Legislative approval to move forward.
The County is also applying for a Municipal Certificate of Need (MuniCON) through the NYS Department of Health, which will enable the County to partner with local EMS agencies and to bolster ALS coverage of targeted areas. With a MuniCON, Ulster County can oversee contracts and service quality and ensure a coordinated, financially viable, and efficient approach to EMS delivery.
County Executive Jen Metzger and Chair of the Legislature Peter Criswell Introduce Ukrainian ‘Sister Community’ Resolution
County Executive Jen Metzger and Legislature Chair Peter Criswell have introduced a resolution to establish a “Sister Community” agreement between Ulster County and the Chernivtsi Region of Ukraine to foster the exchange of information and ideas in the areas of education, culture, and local governance. Ulster County has long had a thriving Ukrainian community and cultural center — the Soyuzivka Heritage Center in Kerhonkson — and this partnership will build on this foundation while demonstrating solidarity with the Ukrainian people. The Legislature will vote on the resolution at its April 15 session.
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Ulster County Parental Leave Program for Employees Adopted by Legislature
The County Legislature passed Resolution No. 119, adopting County Executive Metzger's proposal for an Ulster County Parental Leave Program for employees, which provides 12 weeks of fully paid leave for mothers and fathers to bond with a newborn or adoptive child. The County Executive was joined at the signing by Chair Peter Criswell and Legislator Joe Donaldson, the Legislative sponsor of the resolution, along with union leaders and employees, including some new parents and soon-to-be parents!
Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger Issues Executive Order Reaffirming Protections of Transgender Individuals from Discrimination
Last week, County Executive Metzger issued an Executive Order on the Protection of Transgender Individuals and Prevention of Discrimination due to concerns about rhetoric and actions at the federal level targeting the transgender community. The order was signed on March 31 to coincide with International Transgender Day of Visibility, which is observed annually to recognize the resilience and accomplishments of transgender people, raise awareness about the struggles they face, and promote the protection of their rights.
The Executive Order directs that Ulster County shall strictly follow state and county Human Rights laws that prohibit discrimination based on gender identity and expression. It also directs the County Department of Human Rights, working with the Ulster County Commission on Human Rights, to conduct education and outreach to promote a culture of respect and inclusiveness and prevent discrimination against transgender and all gender diverse individuals in housing, employment, education, and other areas.
Last year, New York voters approved the Equal Rights Amendment to the New York State Constitution, which included equal protection for sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, among other classifications. Five years earlier, the State Legislature passed, and the Governor signed into law, the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act ("GENDA"), prohibiting discrimination on the basis of gender identity or expression. County Executive Metzger was a State Senator at the time and a co-sponsor of the law.
County Route 1 (Lucas Turnpike) Renamed as Vietnam War Veterans Memorial Highway
On Sat., March 29, National Vietnam War Veterans Day, Ulster County honored our Vietnam War veterans by renaming County Route 1 (Lucas Turnpike) as the "Vietnam War Veterans Memorial Highway." Over 100 veterans, family members, and community members joined County officials for a moving ceremony recognizing the sacrifices of those who served.
As part of the event, Ulster County also participated in the national Vietnam War Commemoration program, presenting official Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pins to more than 80 veterans in attendance. These pins serve as a lasting tribute to their service and sacrifice on behalf of a grateful nation.
This dedication was made possible through the efforts of the Ulster County Memorial Chapter 156 of the Disabled American Veterans, Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger, and Ulster County Veterans Services Director Mark Cozzupoli and his team. Special thanks to Sheriff Juan Figueroa, Vietnam War Veteran Bob Nanz, the Ulster County Veterans Honor Guard, Retired Sgt. Major MaryKay Messenger, Chaplain AJ McDowell, and the Spring Lake Firehouse for their role in this meaningful tribute.
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The Ulster County Bureau of Weights and Measures works behind the scenes to ensure fairness and accuracy in everyday transactions. Whether you're filling up at the gas station, shopping for groceries, or weighing produce at farmers’ markets, their work guarantees you get what you pay for. By inspecting weighing and measuring devices across the County, Weights and Measures protects consumers and promotes a level playing field for businesses. The department’s responsibilities include:
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Gas Pump & Fuel Quality Inspections – Ensuring gasoline and diesel pumps deliver the correct volume, verifying that fuel quality meets standards, and checking for credit card skimmers to protect consumers from fraud.
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Scale Inspections – Certifying the accuracy of deli scales, grocery scales, truck scales at waste and recycling facilities, pharmacy scales, and even gold scales at jewelry stores.
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Retail Labeling & Pricing – Checking that the weight listed on packaged goods, like meat, produce, and baked goods, matches what you’re actually paying for and verifying that shelf prices match what rings up at checkout.
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Consumer Protection Investigations – Conducting undercover purchases and investigating complaints to catch and prevent businesses from overcharging or short-changing customers.
The Bureau conducts regular inspections to uphold accuracy in commerce, protecting both consumers and businesses from inaccurate measurements and unfair pricing. Look for the Weights and Measures certification sticker on gas pumps and scales — it's your assurance that transactions are fair and accurate.
Ensuring Fairness in Every Transaction
The Bureau of Weights and Measures is committed to upholding accuracy in commercial transactions. Director Jamie Degasperis and Deputy Inspector Michael Armstrong work daily to ensure that when you buy a pound of produce, you’re getting exactly that — or that a gallon of gas is truly a gallon.
If you suspect a discrepancy in weights, measures, or pricing at a business in Ulster County, don’t hesitate to report it. The Bureau will investigate to protect your consumer rights.
How to Report an Issue – Contact Director James Degasperis:
Fair measurements benefit everyone — ensuring consumers get their money’s worth and businesses compete on an even playing field.
Exciting Summer Job Opportunities for Ulster County Youth
Looking for a summer job? If you’re between the ages of 14 and 20, you can earn up to $16.50/hour through the 2025 Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP)! Income eligibility requirements apply. Staff from the Office of Employment and Training will be available to assist with your application:
📅 Thurs., April 17
⏰ 3–5 PM
📍 Restorative Justice Center (733 Broadway, Kingston)
SYEP applications are due by Friday, May 9, and the anticipated program start date is Monday, June 30. For more information, visit the Restorative Justice Center or contact the Office of Employment and Training at (845) 340-3170.
Register Your Teen for a FREE, 8-Week Photography Course
Teens aged 13-18 are invited to register for a FREE, 8-week photography course hosted by MyKingstonKids.
🗓️ Wed., April 16 - Wed., June 4
🕑 3:15 PM - 5:15 PM
📍Restorative Justice & Community Empowerment Center (733 Broadway, Kingston)
Led by instructor Onaje Benjamin, a documentary and street photographer with 30 years of experience, this 8-week program empowers youth to develop photography skills while exploring artistic expression and gaining insight into their communities. The course offers a creative outlet for self-reflection and storytelling through images.
Autism Awareness Training with the Department of Mental Health
As part of Ulster County’s ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative, the Ulster County Department of Mental Health is hosting an in-person training, “Engaging Those with Co-Occurring Autism,” for helping professionals interested in expanding their understanding of autism spectrum disorders.
🗓️Wed., April 23
🕑10 AM – 12 PM
📍Ulster County Department of Mental Health (368 Broadway, Kingston)
This session will be facilitated by Tracy Schober, MPA, Executive Director of the Autism Society Greater Hudson Region. The training will cover strategies to better engage, work with, and advocate for individuals with autism — including tips on supporting neurodivergent colleagues in the workplace.
Space is limited. To register, contact Katrina Brown at kabr@co.ulster.ny.us.
Upcoming Community Events for Midtown Linear Park Community Space Design Project
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Ulster County has launched the Midtown Linear Park Community Space Design Project to help us create a fun, safe, and accessible community space within the Midtown Linear Park between Cornell and Downs Streets in Kingston — and we need your input! Join us at one of our upcoming community outreach events in Kingston to learn more about the project, share your ideas, and help shape the design:
🗓️ Wed., April 9 🕛 2:30 - 5:30 PM
📍 YMCA of Kingston & Ulster County Entrance (507 Broadway)
🗓️ Tues., April 29 🕛 5 - 7 PM
📍 Broadway Bubble and Community Hub (1718 Broadway)
Together, we can make this community space a place for everyone to enjoy for generations!
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Help Shape the Future of Transportation in Ulster County: Take Our Survey
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Mobility 2050: The Ulster County Transportation Council's Long Range Transportation Plan looks twenty-five years into the future of transportation in Ulster County, and guides our transportation planning and investment decisions. The Plan will recommend transportation projects aligned with the identified priorities and provide a framework to develop, manage, and operate our transportation systems in a safe and efficient way.
Take the survey today to help guide our transportation planning and investment decisions in Ulster County.
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Ulster County Housing Action Fund Opens Next Funding Round
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We’re accepting applications today through May 16 for funding for the following types of housing projects:
- Affordable rental and homeownership developments (up to 80% AMI)
- Emergency and supportive housing
- Preservation of affordable housing through housing co-ops and community land trusts
- Infrastructure, such as water and sewer, to support affordable housing
All projects receiving support from the Housing Action Fund must meet sustainability guidelines and remain affordable for at least 50 years.
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Farm Viability & Sustainability Grant Program Open for Local Farmers
Our local farms are integral to our economy, communities, and character as a County, and Ulster County is committed to keeping farming strong here. The County has launched a $586,000 Farm Viability & Sustainability Grant Program to help local farmers make investments that improve the long-term viability of the farm, enhance energy efficiency to reduce energy costs, and help farms adapt to the impacts of climate change. Grants ranging from $25,000 to $75,000 are available to small and mid-sized farms with a net annual income below $1 million. Applicants must have also filed a Schedule F in 2023 and received an Agricultural Assessment to be eligible. Farmers can apply now through April 30!
The County grant program is administered by the Hudson Valley Agribusiness Development Corp.
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Ulster County Launches 2nd Round of AED Grants for Youth Camps and Sports Programs
Ulster County has launched a second round of AED grants to help youth sports programs and summer camps meet New York State’s new safety requirements. Now open to municipal summer camps and youth sports programs, the program provides up to $5,000 per organization for purchasing AEDs and training staff.
Apply by: Fri., April 18
Eligibility: Municipal and non-profit youth sports programs and summer camps operating in 2025 that have NOT received reimbursement or an AED last year.
Ensure your program is equipped for emergencies and compliant with state law. Contact AEDGrant@co.ulster.ny.us with any questions.
Support for the Next Generation of Growers
The Rondout Valley Growers Association (RVGA) is now accepting applications for its $1,000 Board of Directors Scholarship, open to college-bound high school seniors with a demonstrated interest in agriculture or local food systems. The scholarship supports tuition, housing, books, and other academic expenses, and is awarded based on academic achievement and financial need.
Graduating seniors from any school district in the Rondout Valley are eligible to apply. The deadline is Fri., April 25.
This information is being provided for the benefit of Ulster Residents, these programs are not operated or controlled by the County of Ulster.
Arts & Culture Project Grant Program - $250K in Funds Available
Through Arts Mid-Hudson’s Arts & Culture Project Grant Program, $250,000 in funding is available to artists, nonprofit organizations, libraries, municipalities, unincorporated groups, and collaborations for arts and cultural activities occurring from June 1, 2025 - May 31, 2026.
Eligible projects may include, but are not limited to: exhibits, performances, concerts, festivals, in-school and community workshops, screenings, readings, cultural programming, and the creation of new work. The deadline to apply is Wed., April 23.
$1 Million in Grants Available for New York Farmers' Markets
New York State is offering $1 million in grant funding to help farmers' markets improve infrastructure, expand marketing, and enhance local food system resilience. Grants range from $25,000 to $50,000 and support projects like booth construction, cold storage, website development, and more. Applications are open now and will be accepted on a rolling basis until May 27, 2025, or until funds are expended.
This information is being provided for the benefit of Ulster Residents, these programs are not operated or controlled by the County of Ulster.
Faith & Climate Training Coming to the Hudson Valley
From June 13–15, the Center for Earth Ethics will host a Faith & Climate Training at The Ashokan Center in Olivebridge. This program is designed for spiritual and lay leaders of all faiths who are looking to strengthen their communities' relationship with the land and take action on climate change. Participants will explore:
- Climate science and policy
- Ethical communication
- Local watershed and foodshed issues
- Eco-justice initiatives
- Spiritual support and pastoral care
The training is by application and invitation only. Participants will leave with valuable tools, resources, and new connections to support their work on climate issues.
This information is being provided for the benefit of Ulster Residents, these programs are not operated or controlled by the County of Ulster.
Mid-Hudson Energy Transition Free Appliance Upgrade Program
The City of Kingston is offering income-qualifying Kingston homeowners and renters FREE energy-efficient appliances through Mid-Hudson Energy Transition. Funded by the City of Kingston’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), this initiative offers induction stoves, heat pump water heaters, and portable heat pumps – all zero-emissions technologies that are energy-efficient, environmentally-friendly, and support healthy indoor air quality
Applications are now open! To qualify, applicants must meet the Kingston income requirement of 80% Area Median Income, either own their home or have legal authority to make changes, and for tenants, landlord approval is required.
Please note, these programs are operated by MHET and the City of Kingston and are not managed by Ulster County.
Now Hiring for an Arts, Culture & Open Spaces Director!
Ulster County is hiring for an exciting new position!
This position was created to elevate Ulster County as a hub for arts and culture while deepening public engagement with the County’s beautiful landscapes and open spaces. The Director will lead efforts to promote local arts programming, connect artists and cultural organizations to resources, and activate public spaces through art, performance, and nature-based events.
The Department of Tourism promotes Ulster County as a premier destination for visitors and residents alike, highlighting its cultural, historical, and recreational attractions while ensuring that tourism activities are sustainable and have a positive impact on local communities. The Department works to boost the local economy through tourism, supporting businesses and creating jobs related to the tourism sector.
Ulster County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer and fully complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
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