Veterans and Disabled Members of Ulster County looking to open small vending businesses in Ulster County building have been granted the opportunity at tonight’s Legislative Session.  With a vote of 22 to 0, the Legislature recognized the vitality of the veteran and disabled communities in Ulster County

“I identified this as a priority in my County Address back in March, it is wonderful to see, with this vote, that we are taking action to support the veterans and disabled members of our County by establishing entrepreneur opportunities at County buildings,” stated legislation sponsor and Legislative Chairman John Parete.

Proposed Local Law #16 of 2015 offers disabled persons or veterans of the United States Military the ability to lease space in county owned or county-leased buildings for the purposes of selling goods or services.   

Legislator Mary Beth Maio, a fellow co-sponsor for this legislation, stated, “I am proud the County is setting the tone and the example in offering these opportunities to grow Ulster County entrepreneurs.” 

The proposed local law includes the installation of a kiosk providing information and promoting businesses owned by disabled persons and veterans.

“As a small business owner, I know what it means to have help in marketing and growing your business,” stated Legislator Craig Lopez, the other sponsor to the proposed local law.  “The installation of an informational kiosk highlighting businesses operating right here in Ulster County by veterans and disabled members of our community, will benefit more than just the business owners – it will benefit the County as a whole.”

Proposed Local Law #16 will be submitted to the County Executive for approval.  The Legislature previously passed a policy to allow this specialized vending at County buildings with a unanimous vote on Resolution No. 355, Establishing A Policy For Use Of County Owned And Leased Building Space By Veterans And Disabled Members Of Ulster County.