Education

Support Zero Waste in Ulster County and Reject Polluting Incineration and So-Called “Waste-to-Energy” Projects

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In a recent post titled “Stop Exporting Waste, Oppose Polluting Incineration, and Tackle Waste at the Source in Ulster County” KingstonCitizens.org and TownOfUlsterCitizens.org exposed a troubling development: a bipartisan group of Ulster County legislators recently toured ReWorld’s so-called “waste-to-energy” incinerator in Hempstead, Long Island. The plant, formerly owned by Covanta but since acquired by Reworld, takes in more than 2,600 tons of primarily residential trash a day and after incineration produces up to 650 tons of ash, which is then dumped – in part if not all – at the Brookhaven Landfill.

The Brookhaven Landfill sits in the backyard of our friend Monique Fitzgerald—an environmental justice organizer and co-founder of the Brookhaven Landfill Action and Remediation Group (BLARG). Monique lives in North Bellport, a predominantly Black and Latino community with the lowest life expectancy on Long Island and the second-highest asthma rate in Suffolk County. “The Brookhaven Landfill is the site of a major crisis,” Monique says, “polluting the air, land, and water of surrounding communities.”

In a recent letter to The Suffolk Times: “Waste to Energy Argument Doesn’t Hold Up“, she warned: “Labeling incineration as ‘renewable energy’ rewards polluters and harms vulnerable communities…Covanta (Reworld) Hempstead has repeatedly violated environmental standards. DEC’s failure to conduct in-stack monitoring has left critical gaps in understanding the true extent of pollution from this site. The Town of Brookhaven’s $1 million settlement falls far short of remediating the harm done to the community.”

Currently, Ulster County legislators are in talks with Sullivan County about exploring the potential of a ReWorld incinerator in Sullivan County that would require 500,000–900,000 tons of waste per year.  Sullivan produces just 120,000; Ulster produces 140,000. They’d need additional counties to partner in order to get their waste tonnage to meet ReWorld’s required threshold for operation. A 20-year commitment would lock both counties into a polluting system, and seriously undermine any credible path toward Zero Waste.

This is not an easy subject, and there are many moving parts around managing Ulster County’s waste.  For now, please consider attending tomorrow’s Ulster County Legislature meeting to speak during public comment. 

Take action. 

The public must act now to shut down any discussions about polluting incineration or so-called “waste-to-energy” projects for our trash in Ulster County, whether proposed in our county or elsewhere. Although these talks are currently happening in committee and not yet on the full county legislature’s agenda, the public can still make its voice heard. Community members are encouraged to show up at legislative meetings and speak during the public comment period on this issue before harmful decisions are made in the background.

 

WHAT

Provide public comment during Ulster County Legislature meetings

WHERE

Ulster County Legislative Offices located at 244 Fair Street, 6th floor

WHEN

The next one is Tuesday, May 20 at 6:45pm. They meet third Tuesday of each month

HOW

Sign-up to speak after 6:00pm on the 6th floor of the county building.  Comments must be no more than 2-minutes in length (approximately 260 words)

 

TALKING POINTS

To help you further, we’ve created this FACT SHEET with more information.   

    • Manage Waste Locally and Responsibly: Ulster County must take responsibility for its own waste instead of sending it to other communities that bear the environmental and health impacts. 
    • Say No to Incineration and so-called “Waste-to-Energy”: Incinerators and so-called “waste-to-energy” facilities pollute the air, harm frontline communities, and undermine real solutions to the waste crisis. These private businesses profit by burning more trash – not less – discouraging recycling, composting, and waste reduction. 
    • Ulster County 2020 Solid Waste Plan: The county’s 2020 Solid Waste Management Plan focused on zero waste strategies and not incineration. That commitment should be upheld, not reversed. 
    • Support a Zero Waste Implementation Plan: Ulster County Resource Recovery Agency (UCRRA) is working toward a Zero Waste Implementation Plan. They must be supported to finalize this plan and create a public, transparent timeline so residents and legislators can track progress, support efforts, and avoid unexpected policy shifts. 
    • Support Proven Waste Reduction Strategies: Ulster County should explore successful models like Vermont’s Universal Recycling Law (Act 148), fully implemented by 2020,  bans food scraps from landfills, significantly increasing composting efforts and reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implement initiatives such as “pay-as-you-throw” programs. These approaches incentivize waste reduction and help shift us away from a throwaway culture toward more responsible, sustainable behavior.

Stop Exporting Waste, Oppose Polluting Incineration, and Tackle Waste at the Source in Ulster County

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WHAT
Provide public comment during Ulster County Legislature meetings

WHERE
Ulster County Legislative Offices located at 244 Fair Street, 6th floor

WHEN
The next one is Tuesday, May 20 at 6:45pm. They meet third Tuesday of each month

WHY
Urge the Ulster County Legislature to focus on managing our waste locally and transparently.  They must say no to polluting incineration or so-called “waste to energy” projects that are toxic, polluting and false solutions.  The public deserves a clear, accessible roadmap that outlines the county’s plans, proposed policies, and legislation posted on a public-facing web page. These steps should be guided by the Zero Waste Hierarchy, prioritizing waste reduction, reuse, and responsible resource management.”

HOW
Sign-up to speak after 6:00pm on the 6th floor of the county building.  Comments must be no more than 2-minutes in length (approximately 260 words)

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A collaborative post by KingstonCitizens.org and TownOfUlsterCitizens.org

New York State is known for its progressive environmental policies, but its waste management practices tell a different story. Every day, trash from cities like Kingston is hauled more than 500 miles round trip to Seneca Meadows, the state’s largest landfill, located in Seneca Falls, a small community of approximately 8,800 people. 1  These residents unfairly bear the burden of much of New York State’s waste – pollution, heavy truck traffic, foul odors, and long-term environmental degradation.  With the landfill’s permit up for renewal, residents are calling for its closure by December 31, 2025, 2 and we fully support their demand.  

Despite knowing for nearly a decade about the impending closure of Seneca Meadows, Ulster County still lacks a clear county-wide plan for responsibly managing its own waste.

Ulster County Resource Recovery Agency (“UCRRA”) currently sends 140,000 tons of Municipal Solid Waste (“MSW”) and Construction & Demolition (“C&D”) debris to the Seneca Meadows landfill in Seneca Falls, which is approximately 253 miles each way, averaging 12 trips a day, six days a week. 3

At the same time, several of our Ulster County Legislators think incineration and other so-called “waste-to-energy” projects are a solution to waste management, but incineration is just another harmful approach that exposes those living nearby to toxic pollutants like dioxins, mercury and other highly toxic metals, nitrogen oxides (triggers asthma attacks) and fine particulate matter that threaten public health and the environment.  The process also generates toxic ash that is also being landfilled in a more concentrated, dangerous form. Incineration doesn’t solve our waste problem; it compounds it. 

Furthermore, it is inefficient at producing energy. For instance, the trash incinerator in Peekskill (the largest in the Hudson Valley) produces only 1/10th as much electricity as the Cricket Valley gas-fired power plant. 4

“Trash incineration is the most expensive and polluting way to manage waste or to make energy,” said Mike Ewall, Executive Director of Energy Justice Network and one of our longstanding, key partners. “It is dirtier than landfilling and, as the state has documented, is more polluting than coal burning.”5

The disparity in New York’s environmental policies

The push for incineration and then the continued reliance on exporting our trash to landfills and incinerators in other counties and states reminds us of our fracking moratorium. In 2014, the state banned hydraulic fracturing (fracking) due to its environmental and health risks. However, we continue to import fracked gas from other states.

New York’s climate goals also expose another contradiction: the Champlain Hudson Power Express (CHPE) project. This hydropower initiative brings energy from Quebec to New York, but it comes at the cost of flooding rivers and disrupting ecosystems in Canada, displacing Indigenous communities in the process. 6 

If we are serious about environmental justice, New York must stop neglecting the communities bearing the brunt of our waste. The state has a history of greenwashing – promising change while allowing harmful practices to persist. Real progress means addressing our waste locally, not shifting the burden onto others. And instead of relying on harmful waste management methods like incineration or exporting trash to landfills and incinerators in other counties and states, we must focus on reducing waste at its source through systemic change, and develop our own in-county, publicly-owned disposal capacity to handle our own waste responsibly. This includes mandating composting to divert organic material from landfills and incinerators, banning single-use plastics and excessive packaging, and holding manufacturers accountable for the waste their products generate. Public education is crucial, as people need to understand the environmental impact of their consumption and what they can do to reduce it. Waste management solutions should be localized, equitable, and designed to serve, not burden, communities.

In Ulster County, composting should be mandatory, just like wearing a seatbelt. Just as seatbelt laws protect public safety, mandatory composting is essential for reducing waste, cutting methane emissions, and conserving valuable resources. It’s an easy, effective way for everyone to contribute to responsible waste management because, like seatbelt laws, it’s about the collective good, not just individual choice.

Reducing waste instead of investing in polluting alternatives

In 2024, the Sullivan County Legislature began exploring the development of a so-called “Waste to Energy” plant in the county. In January, Ulster County Legislator Kevin Roberts persuaded Sullivan County to pass a resolution opposing a landfill in Wawarsing, suggesting that Ulster County might instead partner with Sullivan to bring a Covanta facility to the region. 7

In April, a bipartisan group of Ulster County legislators and guests toured Covanta’s incinerator in Westbury, Long Island – a troubling sign that outdated, polluting waste management strategies are still being considered. Since the tour, proponents have been actively circulating Covanta presentations and research in support of a regional so-called “waste to energy” facility. At the May meeting of the Energy and Environment Committee, committee members – including three legislators who participated in the tour – held an extended discussion on the potential benefits of bringing this polluting plant to the region. 8

Let’s be clear: incineration is not a solution. Studies have shown that incineration (and landfilling toxic ash) is 2-3 times more harmful for health and environment than going directly to landfills without burning first, and most of the landfill impacts can be reduced if we keep food scraps and yard waste out of them by composting.  Instead of doubling down on harmful infrastructure, our leaders need to work with the public to develop systems that reflect the principles of the Zero Waste Hierarchy. This framework defines Zero Waste as the conservation of all resources by means of responsible production, consumption, reuse, and recovery of products, packaging, and materials without burning and with no discharges to land, water, or air that threaten the environment or human health. It offers a guide for real systemic change that prioritizes waste prevention and community well-being. 

Ulster County already has a promising composting program, with plans in the works for its expansion. Our county legislators should focus on engaging the public to support the Ulster County Resource Recovery Agency in investing in this program, rather than touring incinerators.  It’s a non-starter.

Take action. 

The public must act now to shut down any discussions about polluting incineration or so-called “waste-to-energy” projects for our trash in Ulster County, whether proposed in our county or elsewhere. Although these talks are currently happening in committee and not yet on the full county legislature’s agenda, the public can still make its voice heard. Community members are encouraged to show up at legislative meetings and speak during the public comment period on this issue before harmful decisions are made in the background.

WHAT
Provide public comment during Ulster County Legislature meetings

WHERE
Ulster County Legislative Offices located at 244 Fair Street, 6th floor

WHEN
The next one is Tuesday, May 20 at 6:45pm. They meet third Tuesday of each month

WHY
Urge the Ulster County Legislature to focus on managing our waste locally and transparently.  They must say no to  incineration or so-called “waste to energy” projects that are toxic, polluting and false solutions.  The public deserves a clear, accessible roadmap that outlines the county’s plans, proposed policies, and legislation posted on a public-facing web page. These steps should be guided by the Zero Waste Hierarchy, prioritizing waste reduction, reuse, and responsible resource management.”

HOW
Sign-up to speak after 6:00pm on the 6th floor of the county building.  Comments must be no more than 2-minutes in length (approximately 260 words)


CITATIONS

(1) https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/senecafallstownsenecacountynewyork/PST045224
(2) https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/central-ny/politics/2025/04/02/demonstrators-protest-seneca-falls-town-board-s-approval-of-landfill-operating-permit
(3) https://extapps.dec.ny.gov/fs/projects/SWMF/Annual%20Reports_Solid%20Waste%20Management%20Facility/Annual%20Reports_by%20Activity%20Type/Landfill/Landfill%20Annual%20Reports%20-%202023/R8/50S08_Seneca_Meadows_msw_R8_2023.2024-3-1.AR.pdf
(4) https://www.eia.gov/electricity/data/eia923/
(5) https://energyjustice.net/incineration/
(6) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efSb1H2Aq0I
(7) https://citizenportal.ai/articles/2144459/Sullivan-County/New-York/Ulster-County-leaders-urged-to-oppose-controversial-landfill-near-Sullivan-County-border
(8) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmAKJyOriuI

 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES 

VIDEO: SEQR 101 Public Educational Forum

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By Rebecca Martin

On Tuesday, May 21, KingstonCitizens.org in partnership with the Kingston Tenants Union hosted a public educational forum on SEQR 101.  Video from our event was created by The Kingston News brought to you by KingstonCitizens.org.

The event’s AGENDA is available with valuable links to resources on page two.

Thanks to Jennifer O’Donnell for bringing her knowledge and experience on the subject to our community.

Read more…

Zoning, the Mixed Use Overlay District, Comprehensive Plans and the Kingstonian Project

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A comprehensive plan is a powerful document in New York State that creates a framework for making important decisions while guiding growth and development. Kingston’s own plan, adopted by the Common Council in April 2016, quite forcefully calls for an affordable housing requirement in new developments:

“Strategy 1.1.2: Require affordable housing for any new or expanded residential building or development project.  The City should consider expanding the number of projects that must provide a ‘fair share’ of affordable housing. Currently, affordable housing is only required for projects taking advantage of the mixed-use overlay district provisions.” (p. 21, Kingston 2025)

The City of Kingston continued to promote that goal in its 2017 Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) application in which the Kingstonian Project was proposed:

“Housing development in the Stockade Business District (SBD) has been limited, and a significant percentage of renters in the SBD and surrounding area are cost burdened, spending more than 30% of their incomes on housing costs.”  (Executive Summary of the City of Kingston’s 2017 DRI application).

However, in February of 2019, the developers of the Kingstonian Project submitted an application that includes 129 market-rate residential units in the Stockade District. The mandate for affordable housing that is outlined in Kingston’s Comprehensive Plan seems to be ignored with this substantial project.

Read more…

VIDEO/GOOGLE DOC: Public Comment Workshop for the Five Year CDBG Consolidated Strategy Plan

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“Why does the city suggest that SEQR is viewed as a barrier when it’s a passive voice? By whom is it viewed as a barrier? The language should be more specific if that is the case….The environmental reviews are a part of doing business. A municipality should be careful about characterizing it negatively in a report as it is something that protects the environment, economic and social factors in our community.”  –  a comment from the public during the recent workshop re: the five year CDBG Consolidated Strategic Plan

By Rebecca Martin

Last week, KingstonCitizens.org in partnership with the Kingston Tenants Union and the Kingston Land Trust hosted a public comment workshop event for the Five-Year CDGB Consolidated Plan, Fair Housing Plan, and Annual Action Plan Federal Fiscal (2019).  With about 20 citizens in attendance, the group outlined 57 new comments that we’ll be submitting (along with more we hope) when the public comment closes on May 15th.

The City of Kingston extended the public comment deadline for 10 days (to May 15th) on the afternoon of our workshop. This will allow the public more time to look over and to comment on the plan.  It’s so important for the public to do so, as it is only created just once every five years.

Read more…

KingstonCitizens.org presents a Public Educational Forum “Historic Preservation in the City of Kingston: Rethinking the Review Process”

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Photo courtesy of Friends of Historic Kingston.

KingstonCitizens.org presents the public educational forum “Historic Preservation in the City of Kingston: Rethinking the Review Process” on Monday, May 14th from 6 – 8 pm at Kingston City Hall in partnership with the City of Kingston and Friends of Historic Kingston.  Guest panelists will include the Mayor of Kingston and experts from the Kingston Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission, Heritage Area Commission, New York State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and Preservation League of New York.

Kingston, NY.  KingstonCitizens.org, in partnership with the City of Kingston and the Friends of Historic Kingston, will host the public educational forum “Historic Preservation in the City of Kingston: Rethinking the Review Process” on Monday, May 14th from 6 – 8 pm at Kingston City Hall, Council Chambers located at 420 Broadway in Kingston.

Panelists will include City of Kingston Mayor Steve Noble; Marissa Marvelli, Vice Chair of the City of Kingston Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission; Hayes Clement, Chair and Kevin McEvoy, Secretary of the City of Kingston Heritage Area; Linda Mackey, SHPO CLG (Certifed Local Government) Representative for Ulster County of NYS SHPO; and Erin Tobin, Vice President for Policy and Preservation of the Preservation League of New York.

The group was assembled to share best practices for streamlining Kingston’s Historic Commissions in response to recent legislation introduced to the Kingston Common Council by the Mayor’s office. Streamlining Historic Commissions was a recommendation made by the consultant Shuster and Turner in their document “Comprehensive Amendments to the City of Kingston’s Zoning Law” hired by the City of Kingston in 2013 to lead its first Comprehensive Planning process since 1961.

A public question and answer period will follow the panelist presentations. This event will be filmed by The Kingston News.

“We are pleased to work with our community partners to share best practices in historic preservation and explore the challenges and opportunities ahead as we consider updates to our City commissions,” said Mayor Steve Noble. “It is fitting that this educational forum will be held in one of Kingston’s most notable historic preservation projects- our beautiful City Hall. Its restoration is a testament to Kingston’s ability to work together for the betterment of our community.”“

“Kingston’s Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission was created in 1966 in direct response to the urban renewal-driven destruction of the Rondout.” said Marissa Marvelli, the Vice Chair of Kingston’s Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission, who will also be a panelist on the 14th.  “The drafting of the city’s first preservation laws and amendments was a collaborative effort of preservation-minded citizens and members of the Common Council. Today’s Landmarks Commission continues its original purpose: ‘for the promotion of the educational, cultural, economic, and general welfare of the public through the protection, enhancement, perpetuation, and preservation of Landmarks and Landmarks Districts.’ The effectiveness of the city’s preservation program is dependent on the strength and clarity of its ordinance.”

“There are many pressing issues in the City of Kingston, and assuring the protection of our historic assets is certainly one of them,” says Rebecca Martin, lead organizer and, co-founder of KingstonCitizens.org, who will also moderate the event. “With legislation on the table, creating an opportunity to take an in-depth look at Kingston’s historic preservation is both timely and essential.”

For more information, contact Rebecca Martin at rebecca@kingstoncitizens.org or call 845/750-7295

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About KingstonCitizens.org.  Established in 2006, KingstonCitizens.org is a community-based group committed to improving the quality of life of Kingston residents through accountability and transparency of local government. By providing citizens with timely and factual information, our work is meant to nurture citizen participation and empowerment through projects, education, and advocacy.

About the City of Kingston.  Kingston, dating to the arrival of the Dutch in 1652, is a vibrant city with rich history and architecture, was the state’s first capital, and a thriving arts community.

About Friends of Historic Kingston.  The Friends of Historic Kingston are charged in preserving historical and architecturally significant buildings and sites in the City of Kingston; To promote and foster interest in the historical heritage and beauty of Kingston and, to acquire, preserve and exhibit materials relating to regional history and culture.

About the City of Kingston Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission. The Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission (HLPC) is a quasi-judicial body of Kingston citizens whose duties and procedures are outlined in Chapter 405, Article IX of the city’s administrative code. Its seven volunteer members are appointed by the mayor to administer the designation and preservation of Kingston’s individual landmarks and four historic districts. Current members have expertise in preservation planning, historic architecture, restoration arts, law, history, and real estate. The commission holds public hearings the first Thursday of each month where it reviews applications for work to historic properties and discusses matters related to public education about the protection and perpetuation of the city’s built heritage.

About the City of Kingston’s Heritage Area Commission.  The Heritage Area Commission is charged with the responsibility of advising the Mayor and the Common Council on all matters related to the Kingston Heritage Area and its programs in a manner consistent with the concepts, goals and objectives set forth in relevant state and local legislation regarding New York State Heritage Areas and in the Urban Cultural Park Management Plan.

About the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).  The SHPO works with governments, the public, and educational and not-for-profit organizations to raise historic preservation awareness, to instill in New Yorkers a sense of pride in the state’s unique history and to encourage heritage tourism and community revitalization.  The SHPO administers programs authorized by both the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the New York State Historic Preservation Act of 1980. These programs, including the Statewide Historic Resources Survey, the New York State and National Registers of Historic Places, the federal historic rehabilitation tax credit, the Certified Local Government program, the state historic preservation grants program, state and federal environmental review, and a wide range of technical assistance, are provided through a network of teams assigned to territories across the state.

About the Preservation League of New York.  The Preservation League of New York State invests in people and projects that champion the essential role of preservation in community revitalization, sustainable economic growth and the protection of our historic buildings and landscapes. We lead advocacy, economic development and education programs across the state.

A More Democratic Approach to Public Meeting Discussions in the City of Kingston.

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By Hillary Harvey
hillary@kingstoncitizens.org

The Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission (HLPC) recently chose to change its format to allow the public an opportunity to participate on applications in real time, creating a more democratic format for both the applicant and the public. The changes provide a model of a more participatory meeting format that all City of Kingston boards, committees and commissions  might consider applying.

Currently, in the City of Kingston, the majority of committees and subcommittees offer public speaking at the discretion of the committee chair.  It is possible to reach out to the chair ahead of a meeting to let him/her know that citizens would like time to present comments or questions.

Read more…

VIDEO: KingstonCitizens.org 2017 Educational Series “On Public Education”

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                                         Click on image to view video

 

By Rebecca Martin

We are just about half way through our educational series this year, with this recent panel on “Public Education” that was so enlightening.  Did you know that every summer, the Kingston City School District re-writes curriculum to supplement “Engage NY” by selected teachers in the district? Or that only 1% of the school district’s budget is federal dollars?

A special thanks to Robin Jacobowitz and James Shaugnessy for their time and service to our community.  As always, to Julie, Peter, Matthew and staff at “Church Des Artistes” for hosting us.

Read more…

PARTICIPATE! Attend Regular Ulster County Legislature and City of Kingston Council Meetings.

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By Rebecca Martin

How can we improve local government? By becoming more civic-minded rather than a single issue participant and attending regular, monthly meetings of both the Ulster County Legislature and City of Kingston Common Council.  That’s a potent and simple place to start.

To help you to get on your way, KingstonCitizens.org has put together a schedule of 2017  for both elected bodies.   “Many hands make light work” as they say. If each of us attended one or two meetings a year and shared what we witnessed – the landscape would look and feel very different.

Here are simple steps you can take to become a more engaged, local citizen.

  1. Sign up for the dates and times that are most convenient for your schedule (see below)
  2. Attend meetings. Make sure you check the calendar prior to attending, as all dates/times are subject to change (see below).  Make sure you add the dates to your personal calendar so you are reminded of your commitments.
  3. Write a one-page (or more) summation of your experience.  What happened that evening? How many citizens were present? Did you speak during public comment? What issues were discussed?  What significant decisions were made?  What did you learn and what outcome would you like to see on the issues that were discussed that evening?
  4. Submit your piece to KingstonCitizens.org:  rebecca@kingstoncitizens.org to be shared in our “Citizen Opinions” section (rules apply).
  5. We can help you to identify your council and legislative representatives and will encourage you to send a copy of your report directly to them as well.

 

Get Started. 

  1. Ulster County Legislature:  Dem/Rep Caucus and Regular Legislative Session
    1. VIEW:  Visit this link and choose dates and times that work for your schedule.
    2. VIEW:   Check the Ulster County Legislature Calendar a week prior to your meeting. Dates/times may be subject to change.  You can also access an agenda at the legislative site.
  2. Kingston Common Council: Caucus and Regular Meeting
    1. VIEW  Visit this link and choose dates and times that work for your schedule.
    2. VIEW: Check the City of Kingston municipal calendar a week prior to your meeting. Dates/times may be subject to change. You can also access an agenda at the City of Kingston website.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.  Join us in becoming familiar with local government.

FAQ Sheet and Call To Action: Proposed Ban on Memorializing Resolutions Vote April 18.

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CALL TO ACTION.

Legislative Members  VIEW

Please call your Ulster County Legislator today and ask that they reject Resolution No. 91 “Amending The Rules Of Order To Prohibit Memorializing Resolutions” on April 18th.     “It is important to me that you do not support a ban on the memorializing resolution process. A ban is undemocratic and infringes on my first amendment right to petition.”

Plan to attend the next Ulster County regular legislative meeting on Tuesday, April 18th at 7:00 pm at the Ulster County Office Building located at 244 Fair Street, 6th Floor in Kingston, NY.  Arrive at 6:30 pm to sign-up to speak and to get a seat.  Citizens are encouraged to create a two (2) minute testimony that is respectful and succinct.

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In March of 2017, Resolution No. 91, a proposed ban on memorializing resolutions,  had its first reading (see video below).  In order to change a local law, that’s step one in the process.  On April 18th, the resolution will be read a final time before it goes to vote.

Here are the facts. (**)

Is a letter from the legislature as effective as a memorializing resolution?

No. Memorializing resolutions must be submitted to the Clerk of the Legislature by the sponsor(s), along with all other business of the session, by a specific deadline.  The appropriate standing committee is chosen based on the issue.  It is placed on the committee agenda and discussed at the regularly scheduled meeting, which is open to the public.  The members of the committee have the opportunity to discuss the MR in committee before voting to send it to the “floor” of the legislature for a vote in the upcoming session.  A letter is not an act of the legislature that invites group discussion in committee, requires a vote by that committee to be sent to the floor, and is then a part of the public process where the public sees the memorializing resolution and can attend the session to weigh in.

Why do proponents of the ban on Memorializing Resolutions claim that they take up too much time during regular legislative sessions?

In 2016, the rules were changed prohibiting discussion on Memorializing Resolutions during the legislative session.  However, procedure allows for members to call for a “long roll” (i.e., a one-by-one vote) so that they may speak on the issue.  KingstonCitizens.org believes that engaging in debate in a way that represents and involves the public is the legislature’s business. They are protecting our “right to petition” by creating an opportunity for our voices to be heard and for our petitions to have a real forum. A ban on memorializing resolutions discredits public participation, civic dialogue, due process and the First Amendment.

Why are memorializing resolutions important? 

Memorializing resolutions are statements of principles that do not become a local law or policy. They are “non-binding”. It is, effectively, a petition by one legislative body to other legislative bodies and lawmakers to provide a mechanism that allow citizens and the legislature to take a stand on important issues.

Why do the ban’s sponsors claim that Memorializing Resolutions have been used as a political tool? 

The sponsors have said that memorializing resolutions were used recently by the Democratic Caucus to polarize the legislative body over issues we have no control over.  Memorializing resolutions are a governing tool. Governing tools are non-partisan.

Two controversial memorializing resolutions were recently sponsored by Republicans and passed by the majority of the Ulster County Legislature. One, in fact,  just occurred in March of this year.  It was Resolution No. 92 “Requesting The New York State Legislature Introduce Legislation Expanding The Hate Crimes Law, New York Penal Law §485.05” (March 22, 2017). The other was  Resolution No. 253  “Opposing The Process Of Enactment And Certain Provisions Contained Within The New York SAFE Act”  (June 16th, 2015).

 

SOURCES  (**)

VIEW  “Commentary:  Ban on Memorializing Resolutions in Ulster County Legislature is Undemocratic” by Jennifer Schwartz Berky (Kingston Times, March 22, 2017)

VIDEO:  Ulster County Laws and Rules Committee Discuss Prohibiting Memorializing Resolutions Legislative Session

VIDEO: Ulster County Legislature 3/22/17: First Reading of Proposed Ban on Memorializing Resolutions

VIDEO: “On Climate Change, Energy and Infrastructure” with Kate Hudson of Waterkeeper.

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“It’s difficult to overstate the seriousness of the environmental threats coming from this administration. We have never had a head of the EPA so hostile towards the mission of the agency, and never had a President so unwilling to make decisions based on science and law.”
– Kate Hudson, Waterkeeper Alliance

KingstonCitizens.org’s recent community educational forum “PART II:  On Climate Change, Energy and Infrastructure” was at capacity.  Our special guest Kate Hudson of Waterkeeper helped participants understand better what was a stake today and what citizens can do.

VIEW video from the event.

Please be sure to visit our upcoming SCHEDULE to learn more about future community educational forums.

Special thanks to Kate Hudson for her generosity in sharing her knowledge as our guest panelist; Peter and Julie at Church des Artists for their space, kindness, and for making this video; and, to all of our KingstonCitizens.org volunteers for their assistance.

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Resources:
VIEW:  KingstonCitizens.org’s “Trump Administration Initiatives and NYS Local/State Policy and Laws”

8:46 – 11:25
Introduction: On KingstonCitizens.org’s Community Educational Forum Series

Read more…

VIDEO: UC Laws and Rules Committee Discuss Prohibiting Memorializing Resolutions. Legislative Session Postponed to Wednesday Due to Snow.

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Last evening, the Ulster County Legislature Laws and Rules Committee had their monthly meeting with one of the items being to discuss Resolution No. 91  “Amending The Rules Of Order To Prohibit Memorializing Resolutions”.  It passed through committee by a 4 / 3 vote.  We filmed the meeting thanks to The Kingston News (brought to you by KingstonCitizens.org) so that you can see the debate from last night. We also took the liberty to note the legislator’s districts and localities they represent in the case that one of the members represents you and you wish to contact them directly.

Due to today’s snowstorm, the regular legislative session that was to be for this evening was moved to tomorrow night, Wednesday, March 15th at 7:00pm in Legislative Chambers (6th Floor) of the Ulster County Building located at 244 Fair Street in Kingston.  Residents can sign-up to speak when they arrive.

We ask citizens consider coming to speak tomorrow in opposition of the Ulster County Legislature banning memorializing resolutions.  Please keep comments respectful, succinct and no longer than three (3) minutes in length.

In the case that the meeting is moved again, we’ll send out an update.

 

VIEW
Ulster County Legislature Laws and Rules Committee Meeting
Video from Tuesday, March 13, 2017

Read more…

VIDEO: KingstonCitizens.org Community Educational Forum, Part I: “On Constitutional Law”

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Click on image to view video. KingstonCitizens.org’s Community Educational Forum: Part I – “On Constitutional Law” with guest Dr. Lynn Eckert.

 

By Rebecca Martin

Our first community educational forum “On Constitutional Law” was a huge success. At capacity, citizens took in a three-hour discussion on Constitutional Law as it pertains to the Trump Administration’s initiatives for his (their) first 100 days in office.

You can view the video HERE, or by clicking on the image above.  We have done general markings to make it easier for the public to follow along (see below).

Because of the storm the day before our event, the Rondout in Kingston had lost its power for most of the afternoon making it impossible to stream. We will be streaming however next month, and for all the remaining educational panels throughout the 2017 season.

Please VIEW our schedule.

We hope that this series inspires citizens in our region to place more energy in connecting to neighbors and their communities.  To become more knowledgeable and less afraid.  To emphasize due process and to come to know how to access (and interpret) the laws that are in place to protect us.

Special thanks to Dr. Lynn Eckert for her generosity in sharing her knowledge as our guest panelist; Peter and Julie at Church des Artists for their space, kindness, and for making this video; and, to all of our KingstonCitizens.org volunteers for their assistance.

00:00 – 5:48
Introductions – Rebecca Martin, KingstonCitizens.org

05:49 – END
Dr. Lynn Eckert:  On Constitutional Law:  Looking at Articles 1, 2 and 3.  Also, 9th, 10th and 14th Amendments.  

Starts at 45:33
“Article 1, section 9.  How do we handle a president who has hotels, businesses, financial influence?”

Starts at 50:03
“Is there anything in the constitution that prevents a president from making money by being president?”

Starts at 51:36
“What is the difference between the Constitution and a law?”

Starts at 52:16
“What is the Federal conflict of interest law?”

Starts at 53:00
Why Trump is going after the press. 

Starts at 56:56
“What would be the optimal way to go to speak to Faso?”

Starts at 58:07
“Does Congress have an obligation to meet with constituents, and if they don’t, can they via the law?”

Starts at 1:03:00
How can we bring this all back to us in New York State?
KC.org Trump Document – Follow Along!

Starts at 1:20:28
“Do judges need to be lawyers? 

Starts at 1:25:50
“What’s to stop Trump from appointing Bannon, or some random person with extreme views as a federal judge?”

Starts at 1:26;18
“Explain the “alternative” understanding?” 

Starts at  1:28:46
“How can constituents be involved in the redistricting process?”

Starts at 1:37:38
“Can you speak to Ballot initiatives?”  

Starts at 1:43:26
“Resistance strategies of impeachment and changing electoral college?”

Starts at 1:44:02
“What about Conflicts-of-Interest?”

Starts at 1:48:40
“If Trump is impeached, what happens to Bannon?”

Starts at 1:51:12
“Is there a class action citizen suit that can be brought against Trump for ‘harassment’?” 

Starts at 2;01:35
Corporations as people.

Starts at 2:15:56
“Can we begin to have ‘moral’ conversations with our elected officials?”

Starts at 20:20:30
“When is it appropriate for civil disobedience?” 

Starts at 2:23:50
“Discussion on International issues? How do we approach this?” 

Starts at 2:31:34
“Further ways to regulate/muzzle corporate behavior?” 

Attend All Eight KingstonCitizens.org Educational Forums and Become a KingstonCitizens.org Fellow!

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Do you want to become a KingstonCitizens.org Fellow?   Sign-up in advance to attend all eight of our upcoming educational forums in 2017.   Deadline to do so is Friday, February 24th.  Only 15 spots available!  See our schedule below.

What you will receive:

  1.  A “reserved” seat throughout the 2017 educational forum series.
  2. Become an expert! A free education on all presented topics including information on local and NYS policies and laws as they pertain to these subjects.
  3. A certificate of completion from KingstonCitizens.org
  4. Two of our “fellows” will be selected randomly to win a free year subscription to a local newspaper of their choice.
  5. …and perhaps more surprises as we go along.

Write to Rebecca Martin at rebecca@kingstoncitizens.org with “KingstonCitizens.org Fellowship”  in the subject line.

For more information, VIEW: KingstonCitizens.org Host Eight-Part Educational Forums in 2017.

 

 

KingstonCitizens.org presents
Community Educational Forums 
2017  Schedule

Sunday, Feb. 26th, 2017
From 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
PART I: On Constitutional Law
A conversation on constitutional law as it pertains to President Donald Trump’s proposed initiatives.

With special guest 
Dr. Lynn Mills Eckert
Associate Professor of Political Science, Marist College

Sunday, March 19th, 2017
From 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
PART II:  On Climate Change, Energy, and Infrastructure
A conversation on climate change, energy, and infrastructure as it pertains to President Donald Trump’s proposed initiatives.

With special guest
Kate Hudson, Esq.
Waterkeeper Alliance

 

Sunday, April  30th, 2017
From 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
PART III: On Immigration
A discussion on the Ulster County Legislature’s upcoming Resolution No. 138 “Creating A Policy To Maintain A Safe, Inclusive Government And Ensure The Protection, Order, Conduct, Safety, Health, And Well Being Of All Persons In Ulster County,” with guest panelists District 7 Legislator (Kingston) Jennifer Schwartz Berky and Ulster County Sheriff Van Blarcum. Other guests TBA.  The discussion will review this and other local proposals using the guidance provided by Attorney General Schneiderman and the ACLU to help communities understand their rights under the proposed changes in Washington.

With special guests
Jennifer Schwartz Berky
District 7 Legislator

Sherriff Paul J. Van Blarcum
Ulster County Sherriff

 

Sunday, May 21st, 2017
From 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
PART IV:  On Public Education
A conversation on public education as it pertains to President Donald Trump’s proposed initiatives.  

With special guests
Robin Jacobowitz, Ph.D.
Director of Education Projects at The Benjamin Center, SUNY New Paltz, Trustee, City of Kingston Board of Education and Executive Committee of Ulster County School Boards Association

James F. Shaughnessy, Jr., Officer
City of Kingston Board of Education

Sunday, July 23rd, 2017
From 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
PART V:  On Women’s Issues
A conversation on women’s issues as it pertains to President Donald Trump’s proposed initiatives.

With special guests: TBA

 

Sunday, September 17th, 2017
From 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
PART VI:  On Economics
A conversation on economics as it pertains to President Donald Trump’s proposed initiatives.

With special guest economist and energy analyst Evelyn Wright.

 

Sunday, October 22nd, 2017
From 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
PART VII:  On Strategic Organizing:  Looking Forward
A conversation on strategic organizing as it pertains to President Donald Trump’s proposed initiatives. 

With special guest
Callie Mackenzie Jayne
Lead Organizer
Citizen Action of NY
Hudson Valley Chapter

Sunday, November 12th, 2017
From 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
PART VIII:  On Local and NYS Clean Energy
A conversation on local and NYS clean energy as it pertains to President Donald Trump’s proposed initiatives. 

With special guests
Jennifer Metzger, Director
Citizens for Local Power

Pat Courtney Strong, President
Courtney Strong Inc.

KingstonCitizens.org Host Eight-Part Educational Forum Series in 2017

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By Rebecca Martin

In November of last year, when Donald Trump became our president-elect, most of the world felt as if it had shifted in an unprecedented way.  Whether citizens supported Trump or did not, there was a common feeling of either joyous or defeated disbelief.

It wasn’t long after that a list of Trump’s initiatives appeared for his first 100 days in office.  With the support of a Republican majority in Congress, Trump’s initiatives suddenly seemed plausible. I saw this as an opportunity to look more closely at the checks and balances that exist in local, state and federal government.

We jumped quickly into action, creating a google document (so that citizens could collaborate) that outlines Trump’s initiatives so to better explore their context and, to identify local and New York State policies and laws that could help guide us through this new administration.   We hosted very small meetings with a couple dozen citizens to start this important work and realized shortly after that it needed to continue and be open to more citizen’s input.

VIEW:  “Trump’s Initiatives: Local/State Policy and Laws”

The result is an educational series that will span 2017. Citizens can expect an array of subjects with expert panelists, a question and answer period,  an interactive work session on KingstonCitizens.org’s document “Trump Initiatives and NYS Local/State Policy and Laws” and short tutorials to help navigate the City of Kingston’s municipal website.

Thanks to Peter Wetzler and Julie Hedrick of Church Des Artistes who have donated their beautiful space so that we are comfortable and supported in our efforts each month.

Please review the list of topics, dates, and details below.   We are currently booking more guests and will make those announcements as they are confirmed.  For now, put all of the following dates in your calendar!

We look forward to meeting more of our neighbors, making new connections and becoming more educated on a whole host of complicated topics.

Knowledge is power.

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KingstonCitizens.org presents
“Community Educational Forums: An Eight-Part Series”
at Church Des Artistes
79 Wurts Street
Historic Rondout section of Kingston, NY
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm.

Over the course of the series in 2017, citizens can expect an array of subjects with expert panelists, a question and answer period,  an interactive work session on KingstonCitizens.org’s document “Trump Initiatives and NYS Local/State Policy and Laws” and short tutorials to help navigate the City of Kingston’s municipal website.

Moderated by KingstonCitizens.org Co-Founder Rebecca Martin.

Participants are encouraged to bring a dessert to share. Coffee and tea provided.  We encourage citizens to bring along their personal computer laptop if they have one. All dates and topics subject to change.

Read more…