Small Business & Taxes

Having been a small business owner, I'm aware of the enormous challenges of doing business today. Small business is the backbone of economic development and the county revenue should be hinged on successful businesses not struggling businesses. County government should make every effort to assist small businesses.

In addition, businesses need the support of the community. It is in our own best interest to "Think Local First". By shopping locally we are keeping tax dollars in our communities.

Employment

Better paying jobs can only exist with new skills and training. The “Greening of America” will create new technical jobs that will demand a well trained work force. We need workers trained in the new building technologies that will be driving the new economy. State grants already exist to encourage young workers into the new technological age.

Tourism
Marcy has worked in the tourism field for over 18 years, not only in Ulster County, but in major tourism markets throughout the country. She knows tourism! It is our most significant financial asset to our county! History, the great outdoors, culture, music and art offer a full array of year round activities to the traveler. We should expand our market reach through the internet, print and ad campaigns; knowing the largest draw to our area is the Northeast and tri-state areas. More effort should be made to draw the International traveler to our area. Due to the proximity of New York City and airports, the counterpoint to the urban experience should naturally be the Hudson Valley.

Affordable Housing
We cannot ignore the growing need for affordable housing in Ulster County. The senior population is expanding rapidly and will continue to grow in the next ten years. Where will seniors live when they can no longer maintain their homes or pay the rising cost of taxes? For lack of planning, young families will have to leave their communities or be forced to commute long distances to work. These are all quality of life issues that directly affect our ability to attract new businesses. Affordable and decent housing should be available to all citizens regardless of their financial background.