By Matt Youngfrau
MONTICELLO — March 20, 2001 – After two months of debate, the Sullivan County Legislature on Thursday finally renewed their lobbying contract with Bolton-St. Johns.
The matter was held up because there were concerns over exactly what issues Bolton would lobby for on the county's behalf.
Last year, Bolton only lobbied on issues related to Indian gaming. It was later suggested that they expand their role to lobby on such issues as PINS (Persons In Need of Supervision), Medicaid, and tax-exempt properties.
Another concern was that, last year, none of their efforts were reported publicly. This year, they will make monthly reports to County Manager Dan Briggs, which will be made public.
The contract calls for Bolton to be paid $5,000 a month (they will only be paid for the months they work). The contract runs from February 1, 2001 to January 31, 2002.
The most vocal critic among the legislators of this plan has been Chris Cunningham. He has implored his fellow lawmakers several times to reconsider this action, stating that he felt the county was well represented by State Senator John Bonacic and New York State Assemblyman Jake Gunther.
The resolution did pass at Thursday's meeting 7-2. Those voting against it were Cunningham and Steven Kurlander.