Proposed memorializing resolutions ban criticized

Residents packed the Legislature’s chambers to decry a proposal that would put an end to memorializing resolutions.

For a second month, county residents packed the Ulster County Legislature’s chambers to decry a proposal that would put an end to memorializing resolutions.

The proposal was on the Legislature’s March meeting agenda for a “first reading,” meaning the resolution was formally presented for consideration.

Democrats, who oppose the ban, attempted during Wednesday’s meeting to have the resolution referred back to legislative committees — a way to get it off the Legislature’s agenda. Chairman Ken Ronk, however, said because there was no action to be taken, the referral was inappropriate and denied the Democrats’ motion.

A memorializing resolution often calls on another body — generally the state or the federal government — to take a particular action, or it puts the county Legislature on the record on a particular issue.

Legislator Richard Parete, who has long opposed memorializing resolutions, introduced the proposed ban, saying they have no force and waste the time of county lawmakers.

In February, dozens of residents called on legislators to reject the measure, and earlier this month Kingstoncitizens.org called on county residents to contact their elected officials about the proposal.

On Wednesday, more than a dozen residents again called on legislators to reject the measure, saying it would stifle the voice of the people.

New Paltz resident Stephanie Lauren called the measure “absolutely ridiculous,” and said it seemed that its supporters are trying to prohibit discussion on things they are “threatened by.”

Others said that the effort gave the appearance that “legislators don’t really care to engage with their constituents on issues that are important to them.”

“Anyone in this room who votes to diminish the voice of the constituents in state government does not deserve to sit in that share,” said Jeremy Swift.

Alison White, a Kingston resident and Sierra Club Mid-Hudson group board member, said memorializing resolutions provide a forum for important issues facing the community to be discussed and debated and provide a way to elected officials to formally put other governments on notice about the desires of their community.

“I question why you would want to do away with this important mechanism for public participation,” she said. “You should not stifle the views of Ulster County citizens by passing this ban. It would be contrary to our interests and damaging and destructive to the government process.”

Legislators are expected to act on the proposed ban at the Legislature’s April meeting.