KINGSTON, NY –   If you want to get involved in your community, now is your opportunity. Today, Ulster County Chairman Ken Ronk announced a new component of the Legislature’s website for individuals interested in applying for various committees and boards. 

“As Chairman, it has always been my goal to bring more openness and transparency to government,” Ronk said. “Our vision is for this to be a tool to enhance and encourage public participation in local government.” 

Ulster County has an abundance of advisory boards and commissions that work on issues from conservation and human rights to solid waste management and recreational trails. Members are appointed by a variety of methods to ensure representation with certain expertise, responsibilities and appropriate stakeholders.

Ulster County residents are invited to explore the listing of boards, commissions and committees and apply for openings for which they may qualify and have an interest in serving on. Each board is listed with a brief description of its function or role, term limits, the current membership or appointment opportunities as well as other pertinent data. A simple, user friendly on-line application is linked to any current vacancies or seats with terms ending within 6 months. Applicants can attach a resume and may apply to multiple boards. 

Ronk noted that the site is still a work in progress but commended the Legislative staff for their hard work in implementing the new technology. He explained that each board and committee has its own terms and criteria for membership that may include appointment by the Chairman, Majority and Minority leaders, recommendations by a local municipality or representing a particular group. Some board memberships may include interviews or require members to file financial disclosures.   

“This is a major step forward for the legislature to open up our boards and commissions,” said Minority Leader Hector Rodriguez, “For too long appointments were made off who you know, or whose brother you are. I hope we can truly get the best and brightest on our boards or commissions.” 

Check out the Ulster County Legislature’s website and click on the “Apply Here” in big red letters or go to https://ulstercountyny.iqm2.com/Citizens/Default.aspx to apply online.   Of course, you can always do it the old-fashioned way and stop in the Legislative Offices at 244 Fair Street in Kingston.  Any questions regarding the new system can be directed to Senior Legislative Employee Mary Beichert who can be reached by email at mbei[at]co.ulster.ny[dot]us or by phone at (845) 340- 3696.  

 “Working on a committee or serving on a board is often the first time people have an opportunity to get directly involved with their local government,” noted Ronk. “And when the right people put their best foot forward it can be a win for us all.”

***