Sullivan County approves framework for two housing-trust programs; vote 7-2

The Sullivan County Legislature approved the framework for two housing-trust programs intended to increase rental supply and preserve affordability, the body decided during its executive meeting. The motion to adopt the frameworks passed 7–2; Legislator Joe Perillo and a legislator identified only as Nick voted no.

Human services and housing advocates framed the programs as a pilot that uses a one-time $2 million allocation in the adopted 2025 county budget. The two program tracks are a rehabilitation program for existing rental units targeted to families at or below 80% of median household income and a new-construction rental program targeted to families at or below 60% of median household income.

Rationale and structure Commissioner Brown introduced the program frameworks and described two tracks: rehabilitation and new construction. The rehabilitation track is limited to households at or below 80% of area median income (AMI); the new-construction track is targeted to households at or below 60% AMI. The county said affordability will be defined using a standard test that housing costs should not exceed 30% of a household’s gross annual income.

County Manager Josh (last name not specified) clarified funding and mechanics. “Their grant programs are not revolving loans,” he said, adding that the 2025 adopted budget set aside $2,000,000 as a one-time funding source to pilot both programs. He said a recurring revenue source for the programs has not been determined.

Oversight and next steps Legislators discussed creating an advisory committee to vet applications and recommend awards. That committee would also advise whether the county should dedicate a recurring revenue source to convert the pilot into a permanent trust fund or continue it as a one-time pilot. Several legislators urged the county to return with clearer procedures for application review and long-term funding options if the programs generate demand.

Dissent and procedural concerns Two legislators opposed moving the framework forward without additional discussion. One legislator said they would have preferred a fuller presentation of pros and cons before a vote. The motion’s sponsor responded that the move was intended to establish a work plan and that more detailed procedural work could follow, including participation by legislators on the proposed advisory committee.

Outcome and implementation notes The Legislature approved the framework and to make the two program tracks available for implementation as a county pilot. The approved approach (as described at the meeting) uses the 2025 one-time allocation of $2,000,000 and does not create revolving loans. Formal program rules, application materials and the membership of any advisory committee will be developed and returned to the Legislature for further action.

Ending Legislators said they plan to monitor program roll-out and return to the body with application materials, performance measures and options for a recurring funding mechanism if demand warrants it.