ULSTER COUNTY, NY - If you are thinking ahead to your New Year resolutions you might want to consider getting involved in community service through one of the many Ulster County Advisory committees.   Under the leadership of Chairman Kenneth J. Ronk, Jr., the Ulster County Legislature expanded their web page to include a program that lists all the advisory committees, their purpose, terms of the members, committee vacancies and any specific qualification required for membership.  The program, Accella, allows individuals to create a user name and password and submit a resume to serve on committees they might be interested in.

Ronk included this in his ongoing effort to make Ulster County government more transparent and accessible to the public. 

“We count on these advisory committees to utilize their expertise to help us develop realistic solutions, advise us on best practices and provide a network of information back to their stakeholder group.  That’s why we need membership from a diverse cross section of our community, who do more than just identify problems,” said Ronk.

There are currently several existing or upcoming vacancies that include: Ulster County Trails Advisory Committee, Climate Smart Committee, Recycling Oversight Committee, Ulster County Human Rights Commission, Soil and Water Conservation Board and the Ulster County Agricultural & Farmland Protection Board.

This year the Legislature is also looking for Interns to volunteer for several of the committees.   This is an ideal entry–level position for someone looking to become involved in our community, receive college credits and have the flexibility to work from home. This is a part time, volunteer position but does require attendance to all of the committee meetings which typically meet once a month at a specified location.  Interested individuals may apply for these positions on the same site.

The program is accessible from the County Legislature’s website (https://ulstercountyny.gov/legislature) by scrolling down to “Boards & Commissions” and clicking on the red flashing words “APPLY HERE”. 

“All of our meetings are open to the public and even if there are no current vacancies I encourage people who have an interest to attend the meetings and share their insights.” Ronk suggested.  “It is a positive and productive way to get involved in your community.”