To begin with, I would like to thank the Town of Rosendale for hosting the 2013 Executive Budget presentation. We are taking the unique step of delivering this speech in a community-based setting for a very specific purpose: the great Town of Rosendale is a fine example of the countless amazing places throughout New York State being negatively impacted by fiscal challenges that are beyond their control. As the County Executive, I am committed to doing everything in my power to serve and protect all 183,000 residents of Ulster County.

Good evening ladies and gentleman, Chairwoman Bernardo, Majority Leader Ronk, Minority Leader Donaldson and all of the honorable legislators in this new and historic Ulster County Legislature.   Tonight’s State of the County Address provides us with a chance to reflect on some of the successful changes implemented during a highly eventful 2011.  But more importantly, it is an opportunity to outline valuable initiatives that can help shape the future of Ulster County and better serve our 183,000 residents.

Hon. Frederick J.

download transcript Introduction New York State’s property taxes are among the highest in our nation.  In fact, as a percentage of personal income, New York State taxes are currently 80% higher than the national average.  Rising property taxes are breaking the people of New York.  They are damaging our small businesses and stifling our economy.  But worst of all, high taxes are forcing families from their homes.  This is completely unacceptable.

2010 State of the County Ulster County Executive Michael P. Hein

Hon. David B.

Good evening. Thank you Chairman Donaldson, Majority Leader Cahill, Minority Leader Noonan, the entire Ulster County Legislature and thank you to everyone else in attendance. This is a very special moment. We are here tonight, just 42 days into an entirely new government. Together, my office, this Legislature and our Comptroller are building a foundation for the future while striving to deliver efficient government for the people of Ulster County. Unfortunately, these daunting tasks must be accomplished in the midst of an enormous financial crisis.

I would like to thank everyone for coming to the release of Ulster County’s 2009 Tentative Budget Press Conference. Because of the transition to the “new” Charter form of government, this will be the last budget originating from the Administrator’s office.  I’d like to take a brief moment and thank the entire Legislature, (both sides of the aisle), for being so open to reform over the last two years and I hope that even during these tumultuous times, everyone will work together to deliver the best possible budget for the people of Ulster County.