Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Sullivan County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in taxes budget with high priority
Uncollected Care Center debt
During public comment, Martha Scoppa said a District 7 legislator disparaged residents who opposed Infinite Care's takeover of the Care Center; Lou Setren praised Care Center staff and asked whether the county is pursuing roughly $8 million owed by a consulting agency.
Outside counsel for county and county manager
The legislature unanimously approved an engagement letter with the law firm Harris Beach Murtha, securing outside legal services for the county.
Senior citizens and disabled veterans property tax exemptions
New state budget rules change the veterans exemption and let towns raise the senior exemption income limit from $50,000 to $75,000. Real Property Tax is analyzing how many of the 133 veteran parcels would qualify under the new rules.
Employee health insurance switch to self-insurance
Public commenters argued the county's pay and health insurance contributions are why it can't retain CDL drivers and recruit sheriff's deputies, including a deputy with a gravely ill child. Legislators agreed to press state officials on insurance costs.
Engineering staffing vacancies
Three engineering positions sit vacant — one for over a year — because consultants are offering new grads $80,000. Committee wants a competitive salary review to land at least two engineers; one vacancy left Roman DiCio running the bridge crew alone.
New York Health Act single-payer support letter
Advocates told the committee a white paper finds Sullivan County could save nearly $42 million a year if New York adopts single-payer health care — money that could ease property tax and service-cut pressures. But legislators worried about income tax shifts, patient choice of medications and insurers, and up to 200,000 displaced insurance workers, and the county is staring down a 35% health premium increase this year either way.
September 2026 tax auction bids and sliver-parcel problem
287 parcels are in foreclosure for unpaid 2024 taxes, and $21.8 million in unpaid 2026 taxes was turned over by towns. Homeowners have until June 30 to repurchase without auction fees, and housing agencies are listed on the Treasurer's website.
County staff shortages and salary competitiveness
HR reported 18 sheriff's office vacancies, pending investigations, and PBA negotiations set for July 28. Payroll certification gaps dating back to 2008 could affect some employees' retirement numbers.