Ulster County News

FROM: ULSTER COUNTY OFFICE

DATE: June 13, 2005 

The Ulster County Legislature voted on Thursday, June 9, 2005 to approve the concept of "Home Rule" for local municipalities regarding possible casinos being built within county borders. Resolution No. 195 does, however, reserve final judgment to the County Legislature should a town, village, or city vote in favor of supporting a casino in Ulster County. Legislature Chairman Richard A. Gerentine stated, "Much effort went into constructing a resolution that supports Home Rule without completely removing decision making power from the Legislature. If a town or municipality does not want a casino then, by all means, the County fully supports that locality’s decision and this resolution solidifies our willingness to do so. Equally, those towns that may be in favor of a gaming facility will have to come before this body before any agreement would be reached." Additionally, the Legislature moved, with the passage of Resolution No. 202, to show support for those towns that have already voted in opposition to casinos by stating that those areas are prohibited for consideration of casinos. Gardiner, Marbletown, New Paltz, Plattekill, the Town and Village of Saugerties, Shandaken, and Woodstock are among the first towns to vote against a casino.

The next monthly session of the Legislature will be held on Thursday, July 14, 2005 at 7:00 PM on the 6^th Floor of the Ulster County Office Building, 244 Fair St. Kingston, New York. Any questions concerning or comments concerning these matters should call (845) 340-3900.