Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Sullivan County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in environment with high priority
Failing drainage system on County Road 102
The county wants to fix a failing drainage system on County Road 102 now, before paving next year, so it doesn't dig up fresh pavement later. A modification agreement with Sullivan County Paving for ~$400,000 was forwarded to the Legislature.
Landfill operations and waste-to-energy exploration
Tonnage is up 35% since the solid waste fee change, pushing the landfill toward its 800-ton daily permit cap — hitting that number means closing the gate. The county hopes new rates protect margins while keeping tonnage flowing.
2026 Hazard Mitigation Plan
The state has approved the county's updated hazard mitigation plan and it's now with FEMA; adopting it keeps the county eligible for hazard mitigation grants. It must be formally re-adopted every five years.
Food insecurity and Single Bite partnership
Fewer people are applying for food stamps even as pantry demand rises — officials think confusing program changes are keeping eligible people from applying. The county is tracking this as a red flag.
Failing cardboard baler at recycling facility
The landfill's old baler keeps breaking down and can't be fixed economically. A new one costs about $300,000 but would let the county bale cardboard and roughly double its resale price — legislators agreed to move forward on it.