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Committee sets public hearing on charter change to allow some concurrent elective offices
Summary
The committee scheduled a public hearing March 18 on a proposed amendment to the county charter that would allow legislators to simultaneously hold certain volunteer local offices, such as library board or school board membership, subject to any applicable state law.
The Ulster County Laws, Rules and Government Services Committee voted to set a public hearing for Tuesday, March 18, on proposed local law 1 of 02/2025, which would amend the county charter to allow certain concurrent elective service by county legislators.
Legislator Collins, the sponsor, told the committee the proposal would permit service on specified volunteer boards (library and some local volunteer posts) while continuing to bar other elective offices. Collins said members of small communities benefit when a legislator can also serve on a local board. Several legislators urged staff to check whether New York State Education Law or other state statutes bar such concurrent service for school board members.
Chair Criswell and other members emphasized concerns about workload and potential conflicts when a legislator votes on matters that directly affect an entity on which they also serve; they noted recusal and abstention would be the remedy if a direct conflict arises. Committee members debated whether the change should exclude school boards because of occasional county-level approvals tied to school districts; after discussion, the sponsor moved and the committee accepted an amendment to remove school boards from the proposal.
Outcome: The committee voted to set the public hearing and advance the amended draft (which strikes school boards) to public notice. Counsel was asked to research any relevant state law that might bar concurrent service by school board members.
Next steps: The committee will receive any counsel findings and public comments at the March 18 public hearing.
