The Local Edition

The Sullivan County Legislature is calling on local residents to take part in an important civic process: the Charter Review Commission. Every ten years, this commission is convened to examine the County Charter—the foundational document that outlines the structure and functions of county government. 

Legislators are looking for diverse community members, including those who have never served on a county advisory committee before, to contribute to the review process.

Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke to Nadia Rajsz Chair of the Sullivan County Legislature to learn more about the Charter Review Commission—what it is, what the role of its members entails, and why it’s an important opportunity for community involvement.

An unknown individual has been pouring pink-colored chemicals into the Ellenville wastewater treatment system, disrupting operations for nearly an hour at a time. The latest incident occurred on January 24, prompting concern from village officials.

Mike Ryman, head of the wastewater treatment operation, reported the issue to the village board, stating that workers noticed something was wrong when the water suddenly changed color. Authorities are investigating the source and potential environmental impact of the dumping.

Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo speaks with Shawangunk Journal reporter Chris Rowley to discuss the ongoing investigation and community response.

Leonard Peltier, the indigenous activist whose sentence was commuted by former President Biden last week, will not be relocated to house arrest until next month. However, a celebration to commemorate the clemency will take place this Sunday during a potluck brunch. 

Peltier, who was active in the American Indian Movement, was sentenced to life in prison after the murders of two FBI agents in 1975. The organization he was a part of grappled with police brutality against Native Americans since the 1960s. 

Peltier and his supporters maintained his innocence, although he did admit that he was present during the shootout at the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. 

The celebration will have Peltier’s former lawyer Sheila Dugan as the guest of honor. Radio Catskill’s Miguel Santiago Colon spoke with her and tells us more. 

Hochul is pushing an array of financial incentives to tackle the state’s housing crisis. But will they make a dent?

Fallsburg Junior-Senior High School came alive with excitement on Saturday, January 18, 2025. The school hosted the VEX V5 Robotics Competition, drawing participants from across New York. Teams from 31 schools showcased their robotics skills, competing in challenges aimed at securing spots in the state finals and the world championship in Texas.

Dr. Ivan Katz, the school district’s superintendent, expressed pride in hosting the event locally. “It’s great for kids and parents to see all the hard work come to life,” he said. 

Fallsburg’s own team, “Starstruck,” was led by senior Bella Muscia, a robotics enthusiast since fifth grade. She shared that her favorite part of competitions is meeting other teams and constantly learning new things. Other team members, like sophomore Robert Perrera, highlighted the trial-and-error process of coding and building robots, while others focused on teamwork and creativity.

Beyond the competition, the event focused on building connections and inspiring students to explore STEM fields. 

New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced a $1.9 million grant to EverGreen Meadow Academy to establish a residential treatment center and a specialized middle school for girls at risk of self-harm due to trauma. 

The new facility, to be located in Rock Hill, Sullivan County, will provide therapeutic care, education, and support for girls in grades 6-8 from across New York State.

Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke with Stacey Millman, founder and president of EverGreen Meadow Services, about the grant and the next steps in bringing this project to life.

Governor Hochul’s 2025 State of the State agenda originally included a one-year deadline for greenhouse gas regulation rules, but the deadline was removed in the final version. Environmental advocates criticized the change as a setback for climate action. Hochul stated the extended timeline allows for gathering necessary data to ensure the program is well-designed. 

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed several measures aimed at easing the financial burden on working and middle-class residents, including a tax cut, increased childcare subsidies, and a new grant for families following the birth of a child. These initiatives were highlighted during her State of the State address on Tuesday.

Radio Catskill's Jason Dole sought reactions to the proposals and spoke with Assemblymember for the 100th District Paula Kay for her perspective.

A fire broke out at the historic Nevele Hotel in Ellenville, NY, on Saturday morning, January 11, 2025. Firefighters from multiple local departments quickly responded, containing the blaze to the main lobby area. The incident marks the second fire at the site in less than a year, with authorities suspecting arson due to the abandoned property being frequented by trespassers and lacking utilities. No injuries were reported, and the cause is under investigation by the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control. 

The property, recently purchased by Arrowhead LLC, is under discussion for improved security measures. Local officials expressed gratitude for the quick response that prevented further damage to the historic complex. 

Shawangunk Journal's Reporter Chris Rowley spoke Radio Catskill's Patricio Robayo about the fire.