Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Sullivan County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in business jobs with medium priority
I Love New York tourism matching funds application
Sullivan Catskills was ranked the #4 DMO in the country and won a rare platinum state tourism award for the county-backed grant program. A new story-driven video campaign aims to lift hotel occupancy, which sat at just 40% in July.
Countywide community calendar
Fresh off a Bagel Festival that drew an estimated 20,000 people, the Chamber wants to build a countywide community calendar that generates revenue and a Local Business Alliance uniting chambers and business groups countywide.
SUNY Sullivan student internship program for the legislature
A resolution to partner with SUNY Sullivan was pulled and will return as a permanent work-study program placing students in county government roles.
Direct Support Professional micro-credential program
A free, grant-funded program at SUNY Sullivan trains direct support professionals who care for people with disabilities — 24 free college credits, a $750 stipend per tier, and national certificates. It has more than doubled in size in a year and works with local employers like New Hope and the Center for Discovery.
Small-business pressures
The Chamber reported that local businesses are squeezed by combined costs — wages, insurance, workers' comp, utilities, taxes — and need infrastructure, workforce housing, childcare and streamlined processes to survive and grow.
Future AI Labs youth technology program
The county ran its first AI and web development camp for local teens and interns, themed around Juneteenth, funded in part by Legislator Amanda Ward's discretionary money. Students built their own websites and the winner took home $500.
County airport as an economic engine
Committee members called the upgraded airport a 'hidden jewel' and want to pursue grants and marketing to attract more general aviation traffic, hangar construction and Bethel Woods performers flying in directly.