A Message from Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger

Dear Friends, This past week I held a virtual listening session on the UCAT service changes since we lost the hub at the Kingston Plaza, and I want to thank the 60+ riders and advocates who provided feedback, as well as the riders I’ve been speaking with as I ride affected routes. We are also finalizing our Route Optimization Plan to improve service – a planning process that has been underway for a year and a half. The draft recommendations would increase bus service by about 30% over three years, and I hope you’ll join us for one of the public meetings on the recommendations on Nov. 6 at the Kirkland Building in Kingston. There will be two sessions, at 4 and 6 pm, both with a virtual participation option. More info to come!  Read on for news about the new Ulster BOCES Career and Technical Center at iPark, another round of County-supported housing projects, a spotlight on the work of our Board of Elections, and more! Thank you, as always, for being a part of our community. All my best,

Recent News & Events

Ulster BOCES Cuts Ribbon on New Career and Technical Center at iPark

On Friday, October 3, Ulster BOCES cut the ribbon on the new Career and Technical Center at iPark 87. Some 1,400 students now pass through the front doors every school day, bringing their energy and enthusiasm for new skills and new experience to prepare for meaningful careers in our county and region. County Executive Metzger has been a strong supporter of the new center at iPark, and took a tour with students who shared their excitement about new learning spaces — from advanced manufacturing and metal fabrication to healthcare and the culinary arts. There is still some work continuing on the space as students and faculty settle in. 

For the many people who worked at the former IBM complex back in the day, and for the many others who have passed by the abandoned buildings for years, to see the next generation at the center of this campus's revitalization is truly exciting. 

Congratulations and Thank You to Serenity Scene

On Sunday, October 12, County Executive Metzger and Legislator Megan Sperry joined current and former residents of Serenity Scene, a sober-living house for women in Rifton, along with family, friends, and community members, to celebrate 10 years of life-saving work supporting women recovering from addiction. Started by the tireless Susan Brisbois, whose own recovery experience inspires her mission and work, Serenity Scene has provided a home and strong community of support for over 100 women over the years seeking to reclaim their lives. 

Thank you to Susan and Serenity Scene for supporting women in their recovery, and helping them get a new start in life, rebuild their families, and rejoin the community with strength and dignity.

Learning from Riders on UCAT Buses!

County Executive Jen Metzger has been riding UCAT buses to talk with riders and bus drivers about how UCAT service changes after the loss of the Kingston Plaza Hub has affected them. She heard a wide range of helpful feedback — from concerns about timing, schedule communications, and transfers to ideas for improving routes and rider experience. Thanks to everyone for sharing their thoughts and concerns, and we continue to invite riders to share input by filling out the UCAT customer service form, or by taking the rider survey available on the buses via QR code or on paper!

County Executive Recommends Seven New Projects for Housing Action Fund Support

Next Tuesday, the Legislature will vote on County Executive Metzger's recommendations for $3.15 million in support through the Housing Action Fund for seven projects — including six affordable housing developments and a new emergency shelter for youth. The projects were reviewed, vetted, and scored by the Housing Policy and Oversight Committee, an expert body that oversees the Housing Action Fund's operations. 

All projects meet affordability and sustainability criteria, and if approved by the Legislature on Oct. 21, will pave the way for creating 185 new housing units (senior housing, supportive housing, and affordable condos and rentals), while also expanding emergency housing for vulnerable youth. 

Learn more and view the full list of projects at: https://participate.ulstercountyny.gov/housing-action-fund

A Spooky Celebration of Local Services

🎃Thank you to everyone who came out to the Human Services Trunk or Treat event on Wednesday, October 8! The Office for the Aging, Department of Social Services, NY Connects, and many other local organizations had a blast dressing up and sharing information about the incredible support services they offer Ulster County residents (along with some Halloween treats🍫!)

One community member showed us just how impactful Ulster County’s services can be. He told the Office of Employment and Training: “Two years ago I was in a tough spot, and I came to you guys looking for a job. Now I have a good job. What you did for me was life changing! Thank you. If you need anything I’m there. Thank you!!”

To learn more about local health and human services, visit https://www.ulstercountyny.gov/Services/Health-Human 

To learn more about local employment and economic services, visit https://www.ulstercountyny.gov/Services/Jobs-Economy 

Congratulations to Hannah Hoffman, Emergency Telecommunicator of the Year!

We are proud to share that Hannah Hoffman, Emergency Services Dispatcher I with the Ulster County Department of Emergency Services, was selected as the Telecommunicator of the Year and was honored with the award at this year’s New York State 911 Coordinators Association Conference! 🎖️

Hannah exemplifies professionalism, compassion, and calm under pressure. Whether guiding new hires, covering challenging shifts, or managing critical incidents with skill and composure, she represents the very best of our emergency communications team.

Her dedication and quick thinking have made a real difference in countless lives — including one unforgettable call that helped save a 10-month-old child.

Please join us in congratulating Hannah for this well-deserved recognition! 👏

Another Great RVGA Hoedown Supporting Local Farms and Food Security!

The Rondout Valley Growers Association held its annual Hoedown on Saturday, October 4, at Tongore Park in Marbletown — a great community event for a great cause, helping to support such great programs as farm-to-school, farm-to-food pantry, microgrants for farmers, and other programs to keep farming strong in the Rondout Valley and nourish our communities. You can learn more about RVGA and its work here.

Hispanic Heritage Pride in Kingston!

Franklin Street in Kingston was full of pride and celebration on Saturday, October 4, in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. It was a joy to be part of this wonderful community celebration – now in its 5th year! La pasamos muy bien, somos una comunidad unida.

Thank you to Sugely Melenciano-Weed for organizing! A big thanks, too, to Donna Greenfield and Jackie Saldana from our Department of Health, Director of Human Rights Joe McDonald, and Myrna Rivera from Youth Bureau for tabling at the festival and sharing helpful resources and information.

Celebrating Italian American History and Culture!

Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger joined the community on Sunday, October 12, in celebrating the Italian Festival in Kingston — a joyful tribute to the rich heritage, culture, and contributions of Italian Americans across our region. From the brickyards and bluestone sidewalks to beloved local businesses and traditions, Italian families helped shape the heart of Ulster County.

Thank you to the Italian American Foundation and all the volunteers for bringing this incredible event to life. Festivals like this remind us that immigrants have always been the lifeblood of our communities — enriching our culture, strengthening our economy, and deepening our shared story. ❤️

New Affordable Housing for Seniors in New Paltz!

🏡 Applications are now open for Harmony Hall — affordable housing for seniors 55+ in New Paltz! Ulster County is very proud to have provided grant support for this project of the Affordable Housing Conservancy through our Housing Action Fund.  

Located at 52 South Manheim Blvd, Harmony Hall offers 51 thoughtfully designed units — 48 one-bedrooms and 3 two-bedrooms — including 8 mobility-accessible units, and 3 units that can accommodate individuals with hearing or visual disabilities. Built to Enterprise Green Communities standards, the development features energy-efficient appliances and a 151kW solar roof system.

Eligible households can earn no more than 50–60% of area median income. 

📅 Application Deadline: November 21, 2025 
🎟️ Lottery Date: December 5, 2025 at 10 AM 
🔎 Apply at: www.ahconservancy.org/harmonyhall/apply

County Spotlight: Behind the Scenes of Democracy with the Ulster County Board of Elections

Welcome back to the County Spotlight! In each newsletter, we highlight a County Department or Initiative, helping you get to know the people behind County government and the terrific work they do. With the general election coming up in November, we’ve decided to give some special attention to our colleagues over at the Ulster County Board of Elections (BOE).  

The BOE is a bipartisan team responsible for administering fair, accurate, and secure elections for all voters in Ulster County. They manage primary and general elections from the local to the federal level. The Board has two Commissioners, Republican John Quigley Jr. and Democrat Ashley Torres, and 12 other full-time staff dedicated to ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast their ballot with confidence.  

For most people, elections don't take up too much time — you do some research, pick your candidates, and cast your ballot — but behind the scenes, our BOE is working year-round to make them go smoothly. Months in advance of each election, they oversee candidate filings, maintain voter rolls, and coordinate with polling sites across the County. They also have to create the ballots, program the voting machines to read them, and send out absentee ballots. Meanwhile, they train and support more than 500 Election Inspectors who staff polling sites during the election. Once ballots have been cast, they’re responsible for counting, and potentially recounting, tens of thousands of votes — or in the case of last year’s presidential election, over 100,000 votes — to make sure the outcome of each election represents the will of the voters.  

Between preparing for, overseeing, and certifying elections, the BOE also gets out into the community to encourage civic engagement: They put out ads and interviews in the press to spread the word on upcoming elections, run mock elections at local elementary schools, help high schoolers pre-register so they can vote as soon as they’re eligible, and host Ulster County’s famous “I Voted” Sticker Contest.

In a time where trust in the electoral process is being challenged, Commissioner Torres thinks this work is as important as ever. The Board of Elections works hard “getting out into the community and dispelling any mis- and disinformation,” said Torres. “We try to get out there and talk to any group of people that will have us and let them know that they have access to their election officials." 

The Board of Elections team works hard but also knows how to have fun after work hours. When they're not working, the Board of Elections staff like to dress up in themed costumes and share food, all according to some theme. They’ve had a baseball-themed barbecue, a holiday movie feast, and are soon putting on an autumnal “soup-luck” where they’ll dress in flannel and each bring in a hearty soup or stew. 

November 4 is the General Election for County and municipal offices. Commissioners Torres and Quigley have this message for the people of Ulster County: “Don’t take your vote for granted...every vote matters in local elections.” Voters have “more ways than ever before” to cast their ballot, including early voting in person and early voting by mail in addition to voting on Election Day. Lastly, they ask us to “be nice to the election inspectors” who are working hard to protect the voting process and make sure everything runs smoothly!

Here are a few tips from our Commissioners:

• Check your registration and polling place: You can check your info anytime at VoteUlster.com. 
• Know your rights: You can request assistance, use an accessible voting machine, or cast an affidavit ballot if your name isn’t on the list — because every voter has a right to vote. 
• Keep your information up to date: If you’ve moved, changed your name, or want to update your party affiliation, visit VoteUlster.com early to make sure your registration is current.
• Vote Early in the General Election: Starting October 25 and running through November 2, you can vote at any six convenient early voting locations. For more information, please visit the early voting page.
• Track your absentee ballot safely and easily with our online ballot tracker. 
• Turn it over Ulster County!: Every Ulster County ballot will include propositions located on the back. Please remember to turn it over and vote on both sides of your ballot. For more information on each ballot question, visit VoteUlster.com and check out the 2025 Propositions and Sample Ballots page.  

Upcoming Events & Happenings

Now Recruiting Future Firefighters!

The Ulster County Firefighter Discovery Program is designed for youth ages 14 & 15 interested in fire and emergency services. Under expert supervision, participants will experience hands-on training in fire, rescue, and emergency medical services. Join us! Be part of something bigger.

🗓️ Tuesday, Oct. 21 
🕑6:30 PM
📍 Ulster County Public Safety Training Center, 259 Ulster Landing Road, Kingston

Orientation is required. A parent or guardian must be present at orientation. Register for Orientation at https://forms.office.com/g/i2fDUcSmzj.

Questions? Contact Everett Erichsen at eeri@co.ulster.ny.us or (845) 331-7000.

Upcoming Job Fair in Kingston!

ATTENTION JOB SEEKERS!
Looking for your next job opportunity? Join the Ulster County Career Center for its Fall Job Fair on Tuesday, October 28 at the Ulster County Restorative Justice Center. This is an opportunity to connect with local employers, explore career options, and discover immediate openings. Bring your resume, meet hiring managers face-to-face, and take the next step toward your future.

Entry is FREE! To register go to: https://forms.gle/oPg4ffFGJsBpD4gC7

Any questions? Call the Career Center at (845) 340-3170

🗓️ Tuesday, Oct. 28
🕑11 AM - 2 PM
📍 Ulster County Restorative Justice Center, 733 Broadway, Kingston

13th Annual Ulster County Domestic Violence Information Forum

The 13th Annual Ulster County Domestic Violence Forum organized by the Ulster County Interagency Council on Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking is scheduled for 9:30 AM on October 29. The event will take place at SUNY New Paltz’s Lecture Center in Room 100. This year’s programming will feature a keynote address from David Ryan, Retired Chief of Pound Ridge Police Department and Director of the Westchester County Domestic Violence High Risk Team. The address will focus on stalking and strangulation as harbingers of deepening high-risk conduct from offenders.

🗓️ Wednesday, Oct. 29
🕑9:30 AM - 12:30 AM
📍 SUNY New Paltz Lecture Center, Room 100

Opportunities for Older Adults at Back in the Game!

Join the Office for the Aging and Ulster County Career Center on Thursday, November 6 for Back in the Game, a welcoming event designed for adults 50+ who are interested in returning to work, finding volunteer opportunities, or sharing their talents with the community. Connect with local employers, nonprofit organizations, and training providers — all in one place. This free event includes job and volunteer booths, skill-building sessions, and on-the-spot resources to help you take your next step.

🗓️ Thursday, Nov. 6
🕑11 AM - 2 PM
📍Town of Esopus Town Hall, 1 Town Hall Way, Ulster Park

Questions? Contact the Ulster County Office for the Aging at (845) 340-3456.

Registration is free and open now!

Celebrate the Life of Nina Postupack at the County Archives Gallery Open House

Join us this Monday, October 20, for a special open house honoring the life and legacy of former Ulster County Clerk Nina Postupack 🕊️

From 10:30 AM to 1 PM, the public is invited to visit the newly named Nina A. Postupack Archives Gallery on the 2nd floor of the Ulster County Office Building (244 Fair Street, Kingston). Come celebrate 45 years of extraordinary public service and historical preservation by a truly beloved leader.

Connect, Engage & Serve: Opportunities and Resources

Resources for Federal Employees During the Ongoing Government Shutdown 

More than 1,000 federal employees live and work in Ulster County. During the current shutdown, over half may be affected — some furloughed (not working, not paid), others deemed essential (working, but still not paid).

📬 Not affected: Postal workers — USPS operates on revenue, not tax dollars
🛑 Furloughed: USDA, USGS, Interior, Social Security, National Parks 
🔒 Working without pay: DoD, West Point staff, TSA, Bureau of Prisons, federal law enforcement

If you’re impacted, here are resources to help:

💼 Unemployment eligibility info from the New York State gov.
🏦 Talk to your bank — Ulster Savings is offering support.
📚 Sign up for the FedSupport resource guide.
🔍 Considering a career change? Explore local job openings with the Ulster County civil service portal.  

We thank all federal employees for their service. Ulster County stands with you.

Job Openings in Ulster County

Ulster County is Hiring!  Consider a career in public service and earn a living by making a difference. Visit the civil service portal and apply today to join our team.

• Assistant Public Defender – $58.30/hour
• Bus Driver-Dispatcher - $23.86/hour
• Caseworker Trainee (NYS HELPS) – $21.81/hour

The Ulster County Government strictly adheres to the principles of the Equal Employment Opportunity Act and Americans with Disability Act.