August 5, 2025 Economic Development, Planning, Education, Employment, Arts And Agriculture

The Ulster County Legislature's Economic Development, Planning, Education, Employment, Arts and Agriculture Committee met on August 5, 2025. Key procurement-related discussions included updates from the Ulster County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) on approved and pending projects, such as the $89 million Marbor Resort tourism project and the $36 million Arizona Hudson Valley Project, both expected to create jobs and proceed to closing later in 2025. The IDA also discussed upcoming board member term renewals and community engagement efforts. Additionally, Cornell Cooperative Extension presented its 2026 budget request, seeking a 3% increase to maintain current programs amid anticipated federal funding cuts. The committee approved a resolution to include additional lands in agricultural districts, with one parcel removed from consideration due to neighbor concerns. The committee also designated the Ulster County Department of Tourism as the official tourism promotion agency for 2026, noting a $60,000 state aid allocation and announcing an upcoming RFP for tourism marketing services due to a vendor ownership change. The meeting included motions and votes related to these resolutions and budget allocations, reflecting ongoing capital and program funding decisions affecting local economic development and agriculture.