Outlines a New Direction for Economic Development in Ulster County

KINGSTON, N.Y. – Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan signed into law a bill establishing Ulster County’s first ever Department of Economic Development. Ryan also outlined his vision for the new department as a part of his “Big Five” initiative to grow and diversify our economy for all. 

Ryan recently announced the creation of a new economic development working group, Ulster 2040. Ulster 2040 has a goal to align and focus the County’s economic, workforce and community development investments toward a set of targeted focus sectors, and to identify the necessary steps to ensure that all County residents will benefit from a growing and changing economy. 

Additionally, in his budget address earlier this month, Ryan proposed funding for the Department of Economic Development to deliver on his goal of inclusive economic growth that benefits all Ulster County residents. The budget includes a fully staffed department dedicated to developing, enhancing and promoting economic opportunities for all county residents. Ryan believes that the Ulster 2040 Working Group, the Ulster County Economic Development Alliance, and the staff of the Department of Economic Development are each critical components to chart a course for the future and deliver on this goal.

“I’m confident we can position Ulster County to lead in the 21st century economy,” said County Executive Pat Ryan. “This new department structure allows for robust leadership, transparent approaches to delivering economic development for all, while allowing us to meaningfully put funds behind our new approach to economic development in Ulster County.”

"This is an important move to help accelerate economic growth and job creation through improved programs that help us retain and attract businesses, grow small businesses and expand job opportunities with family sustaining wages,” said Lynn Archer, Deputy Chair of  Economic Development Committee. “I look forward to working with the team."

“It has been an honor to work as the Director of the Office of Economic Development under County Executive Pat Ryan,” said Lisa Berger. “I am excited to continue to serve the people of Ulster County as the Director of the first ever Department of Economic Development. I am looking forward to continuing to work to grow and diversify the County’s economy in a sustainable, equitable way.”

“Investing in economic development is of vital importance to Ulster County,” said Ward Todd, President of the Chamber of Commerce. “The creation of the Department of Economic Development will put funding behind County Executive Ryan’s vision of economic development that helps all members of our community.” 

Previously, Economic Development was housed under the Ulster County Planning Department. The Director of Economic Development is subject to confirmation by the Ulster County Legislature.

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