Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Sullivan County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
17 issues in general
Adult Care Center at Sunset Lake closure
Speakers slammed the county over the nursing home closure — residents being transferred far away, belongings packed in garbage bags, and alleged pressure on families. Chairwoman Rajsz assured families there's no deadline to place a loved one, and the committee approved paying the facility's 2025 school taxes.
Outside counsel for Care Center litigation defense
The county is on the losing end of a lawsuit over the Care Center, where a judge found the county liable regarding the transfer of the nursing home and its vulnerable residents. Taxpayers are now footing the bill for private law firm Harris Beach Murtha Cullina to defend the county and its manager — with no cap on fees after the $50,000 limit failed.
Court contempt findings against county
A resident cited October 29 criminal contempt findings against the county and county manager and demanded legislators obtain the court record, conduct a documented review, and issue written findings.
Lawsuit Over Senior Home Closure
Sullivan County is facing a new lawsuit over how it handled the closure of a senior home. If you have aging relatives or care about county oversight, this is one to watch because it could expose gaps in how vulnerable residents were protected.
Adult Care Center closure fallout
A commenter argued the DOH 'gag order' from the Care Center consulting deal never bound legislators, and asked the county to spell out exactly how much the proposed closure would change the projected tax increase.
Airport fixed-base operator RFP
The airport RFP is out with site visits planned, and officials questioned whether two fuel trucks at $900 a month are still needed. Staff defended the redundancy — one truck down means no fuel sales — but the chair wants a closer look.
Senior Center Closure
Sullivan County officials voted to close the local senior center, and one lawmaker warns the building will just sit empty. If you or your family rely on the center, the closure hits you directly.
Childcare subsidy program reopening
The county's child care subsidy program, which closed in 2025 when funds ran out, reopens mid-September with about $6 million allocated starting October 1. Families must apply themselves on a first-come, first-served basis — online, by fax, email or in person. Legislators pressed for clear communication so nobody misses out.
Adult Care Center closure
Legislator Ward reported Garnet Health Catskills holds patients for months — one for a year — because no long-term care beds can be found, a problem worsened by the county facility's closure.
County Care Center Operations
A judge says the Sullivan County Care Center can’t close yet, so operations will continue while the legal fight plays out. If you have a loved one there—or work there—the next steps matter a lot.
Court Ruling on County Nursing Home Closure
A state Supreme Court judge has ordered Sullivan County’s nursing home to stay open for now, so the Care Center’s closure is on hold while the legal fight continues. That’s a big deal for residents, families, and staff who were facing uncertainty about where care would go.
Nursing Home Closure
A judge has temporarily blocked Sullivan County from closing its nursing home, so residents and families get a breather—but the fight over the facility’s future is still live. If you have a loved one in county care, expect uncertainty and more legal and political back-and-forth before anything is final.
Senior Care Center Closure
Sullivan County residents are fighting a plan to close a local senior care center. For families who depend on it for elder care, the closure could force them to scramble for alternatives farther away or pay more. The pushback signals this is becoming a local political issue.
County Nursing Home Closure
Sullivan County’s county-owned nursing home in Liberty is closing because it’s losing money. That’s a big deal for residents and families who depend on it for care—and for the workers whose jobs are tied to it.
RWE Solar project review
A utility-scale solar project between Thompson and Forestburg is coming — the county got the 60-day notice and expects the actual application around May 29. The county has an MOU with both towns to coordinate its response and plans to seek intervener funds.
Child care program shutdown and funding dispute
The county's childcare assistance program is closed pending state funding, leaving families without help and costing the county roughly $2 million — a gap staff said the county cannot absorb until the state guarantees reimbursement.
Large-scale solar project concerns
A resident warned about a 4,300-acre solar project between Fallsburg and Thompson, saying homeowners are selling and lakes may be affected. Staff directed him to Commissioner Brown regarding the state Office of Renewable Energy Siting.