Following today’s release of the 2016 Executive Budget by County Executive Michael Hein, Ulster County Legislators had this to say:

Chairman John Parete stated he “thanks the County Executive for supporting the work of the Legislature’s Ulster Coalition Against Narcotics by recognizing and funding the Coalition’s recommendation for an ombudsman.  We will continue the Coalition’s good work with legislation coming before the Legislature this month and with this budgetary partnership with the Executive, we will continue to make progress on this very serious health issue affecting Ulster County families.”

Legislator Carl Belfiglio, who was in attendance at the County Executive’s presentation, shared the Legislative Chairman’s approval for the funding of an Ulster Coalition Against Narcotics recommendation stating, “Since I was a proud co-sponsor and member of the Ulster Coalition Against Narcotics, I am happy the County Executive put one of our initiatives in his budget.  It is good to see that Ulster County government is shrinking from a $335 million to a $330 million budget.  I believe it is the role of any County Executive to protect taxpayers and on first glance, this budget does just that.  I am hesitant to completely endorse the budget as the County Legislature has not yet been given all the pieces of this complex document.”

Vice Chairman David Donaldson stated, “I was thrilled to see Mike took my suggestion and fully funded the One80 Juvenile Diversion Program after the loss of $100,000 Federal funding.  This program has demonstrated success with cost efficient methods and will continue to help our families and communities.”

Minority Leader Ken Ronk stated, “Overall, I am pleased with a budget that includes a decrease in taxpayer spending.  Specifically for me, having served on the Fire Advisory Board for the past 8 years, I am keenly aware of the need for a Fire Training Center in Ulster County.  My fellow Legislators and I have advocated for this for many years.  I am thrilled that it is going to become a reality.” 

Legislator Thomas “TJ”  Briggs concurred with Minority Leader Ronk noting, “The County Executive’s budget includes a very important and much needed County Fire Training Center. This shows the importance the Executive places on the well-being of all Ulster County residents.”