(Kingston, NY) – Today the Ulster County Legislature approved the 2023 spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year beginning January 1. The 2023 budget comprises the means to provide services to 183,000 county residents and maintain vital county operations.

“This budget was a collaborative process between the Legislature, the Executive, our hard working departments and the public to ensure the needs of our community are met and services are provided as efficiently as possible. I am proud of the bipartisan work of the Legislature in delivering a commonsense spending plan that will improve lives without raising taxes,” said Chair Tracey Bartels (District 16 – Gardiner, Shawangunk).

“We in the Legislature examined the Executive’s proposal and modified as needed to support vital initiatives and better serve Ulster County residents. Through this spending plan we will increase support for our neighbors without burdening the tax base,” Said Legislator John Gavaris, Chair of the Ways and Means Committee (District 15 - Ellenville, Wawarsing).

“Following our three public hearings across the County, the Legislature collaborated to modify the Executive’s proposal to best suit the needs of our community. We look forward to seeing the budget implemented at the start of next year,” said Majority Leader Jonathan Heppner (District 23 – Woodstock, Hurley).

“This budget represents months of hard work to diligently manage county finances during one of the most fiscally challenging times in recent history. I, and the Republican Caucus are especially proud of the increase in attention and support dedicated to Ulster County First Responders and Law Enforcement personnel to provide them with the resources necessary to respond to crisis,” said Minority Leader Ken Ronk (District 13 – Shawangunk).

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Please see attachment for Spanish Language Release