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The Ulster County Legislature approved a new contract with the Ulster County Resource Recovery Agency (UCRRA) on Tuesday (September 16), significantly increasing the agency's bonding authority from $500,000 to $60 million. The decision, passed by a 16-6 vote, sparked debate among lawmakers over the balance between financial oversight and operational flexibility.
According to Mid-Hudson News, Republican Legislator Jason Kovacs expressed concern, stating, "This is a 120-fold increase in borrowing power. Approving it would not be modernization. It would be abdication." In contrast, Democratic Legislator Kathy Nolan supported the measure, highlighting the need for long-term financial flexibility to implement a decade-long recycling and diversion plan.
The new contract, which governs UCRRA's operations for five years, includes provisions for board appointments and periodic reviews to ensure accountability. UCRRA Executive Director Marc Rider praised the contract, noting it serves as an "insurance policy" for the agency. He stated, "We’ve got to a place where I think it’s a beneficial contract for all of us."
The expanded bonding authority aims to reduce the county's reliance on trucking waste to Seneca Falls, which costs over $10 million annually. However, Republican Minority Leader Kevin Roberts voiced concerns about potential financial risks, arguing that the county could become a "financial backstop" if agency revenues fall short.
Public comments during the session reflected support for rejecting a proposed landfill and called for transparency in future projects. Chris Hurlbert of Saugerties suggested exploring local recycling and composting facilities to turn liabilities into investments.