Hudson Valley officials call for ‘compassionate New York’

KINGSTON, NY — On May 24, Hudson Valley elected officials, community members and advocates held a press conference calling for the Compassionate New York agenda, a statewide legislative plan to “save lives and billions of dollars.”

They discussed three key legislative items—guaranteeing healthcare for every New Yorker, stopping unjust evictions and ending mass incarceration.

Speakers argued that this cross-issue agenda is needed to save lives, address systemic racism and create a more equitable pandemic recovery.

This press conference comes after the town of New Paltz voted unanimously on to pass a resolution in support of the Compassionate New York agenda, the first of its kind in the entire state.

A report shows that the Compassionate New York agenda would save nearly $12 billion in the first year of implementation alone—The New York Health Act would reduce total healthcare spending by at least $10 billion, Good Cause Eviction protections would save over $1.6 billion, Elder Parole and Fair and Timely Parole bills would save $522 million annually.

Pocono Mountains surgeon runs for governor

SHAWNEE-ON-DELAWARE, PA — Dr. Nche Zama, a “world-renowned” cardiothoracic surgeon from the Pocono Mountains has announced his candidacy for governor of Pennsylvania in 2022. Gov. Tom Wolf has reached his term limit, leaving the seat open for what’s sure to be a heated race.

“For too long, Pennsylvania has been sick. Our economy, schools and healthcare system have been broken for years while Harrisburg remains in a coma,” Zama says on his campaign website. “Pennsylvania should have a trillion-dollar economy that is globally competitive and strongly supported by world-class schools and a top-notch healthcare system. As an ardent supporter of educational, technological, business and healthcare excellence, I am running for governor to lead the charge and address these and other ills confronting this great commonwealth.”

Most Sullivan County buildings reopen fully

MONTICELLO, NY — Many Sullivan County government offices and facilities have reopened to the public as of Monday, May 24.

In the government center, facial masks are required throughout the building for non-vaccinated individuals, though the county will not be requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination; masks and appointments remain required for anyone accessing the DMV or county clerk’s offices, regardless of vaccination status; social distancing for unvaccinated individuals; no check-in required; and no pre-screening to attend public meetings or enter offices, but signing into an office will be maintained.

A complete listing of updated guidelines for all government buildings in Sullivan County is available on the county’s website.

County-wide litter pluck announced

HURLEYVILLE, NY — Sullivan County is asking residents to celebrate National Trails Day with the Sullivan O&W Rail Trail Alliance on Saturday, June 5 and then head out to enjoy, and clean up, the wilderness.

Opening remarks with special guests will begin at 9 a.m. at the Hurleyville Rail Trail, followed by a walk at 10 a.m., and then a trail clean-up until 1 p.m. Celebrations continue thereafter; visit www.sullivanoandw.com for up-to-date information about group hikes and event details.

In support of National Trails Day, the Sullivan County Legislature has agreed to waive disposal fees for trail trash brought to county-operated transfer stations between Saturday, June 5 and Sunday, June 13.

“Our litterpluck efforts extend beyond our roads and highways,” noted District 7 Legislator Joe Perrello. “And considering how many people are now using our public trails, it makes sense to put some polish on our pathways.”

Free disposal coupons are required and can only be used for bags of litter collected from public trails within Sullivan County’s borders. A list of local trails is available at www.trailkeeper.org.

Lane reduction on County Route 114

COCHECTON, NY — The New York State Department of Transportation is advising motorists that the bridge carrying County Route 114 over the Delaware River in Cochecton will be reduced to a single lane with alternating one-way traffic controlled by temporary signals. The lane reduction is scheduled to be in place until Tuesday, November 30 to facilitate a bridge rehabilitation project.

During construction, vehicles exceeding the standard legal width of eight feet six inches and commercial trucks requiring a hauling permit will not be permitted on the bridge. Informational signage is in place.