Sullivan County News Update with Dan Hust

During his weekly appearance on Radio Chatskill, Sullivan County Communications Director Dan Hust provided critical updates on County operations, community programs, and upcoming deadlines that residents should know: Liberty Police Chief Raises Concerns Over Knights Inn; Homeless Shelter May Face RevoteLiberty Police Chief Steve D’Agata has publicly voiced concerns about ongoing issues at the Knights Inn, a facility currently used to house individuals receiving County services. The situation has renewed debate around a proposed homeless shelter, which may return for a revote by local officials in the near future.REAL ID Deadline Triggers DMV BacklogWith the federal REAL ID compliance deadline set for May 7, Sullivan County’s Department of Motor Vehicles has experienced a surge in traffic, completing 1,330 appointments in April. The office is now booked through June, leaving late applicants facing delays. The County has released an informational video to help residents prepare the correct documents before heading to the DMV.County Participating in Town Line Solar Project ReviewSullivan County has declared itself an interested party in the Town Line Solar project, which is being proposed for land in the Thompson and Forestburgh area. As an interested party, the County will have a formal role in reviewing the project’s potential environmental and community impacts.RUSt Program Returns to Address Blighted StructuresThe County is reinstating the RUSt (Removing Unsafe Structures) program, aimed at demolishing abandoned or unsafe buildings that pose safety risks and reduce property values in local communities.Measles Cases Increase Nationwide; County Monitoring Local RiskThe U.S. has reported more than 760 measles cases across 24 states so far in 2025, prompting increased monitoring by Sullivan County Public Health Services. While there are currently no confirmed cases locally, health officials are urging vigilance as the summer travel season approaches. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is required for all children attending schools and summer camps in the county. Adults are encouraged to check with healthcare providers regarding antibody titers or booster shots, as immunity may decrease over time.HEAP Cooling Funds Likely to Run Out Early; Additional Energy Programs Closing May 9The HEAP Cooling Benefit Program is expected to exhaust its funds well before peak summer heat. Additionally, New York State will close both the Clean & Tune and Home Energy Repair/Replace (HERR) programs on May 9 — marking the earliest shutdown in over a decade. Residents are urged to apply as soon as possible if they have not yet taken advantage of these programs.Upcoming Events & DeadlinesVolunteer Fair – May 17, 10 AM–2 PM at Cornell Cooperative Extension in Liberty. Open to all residents interested in getting involved with local organizations.Citizens Preparedness Seminar – May 20, 6:30 PM at the Emergency Operations Center in Swan Lake. Registration required.Summer Youth Employment Program – Application deadline: May 9. Open to local teens seeking summer work and job training.Burn Ban – Remains in effect through May 15, due to elevated fire risk during the spring season.Lumberland First Responders Honored for Heroic RescueThe Lumberland Fire Department and EMS have been recognized for successfully rescuing a driver trapped in an overturned vehicle on Route 97. The rapid and effective response highlights the professionalism and dedication of local emergency services.Hudson Valley Rivermen Launch at SUNY SullivanThe newly formed Hudson Valley Rivermen semi-professional basketball team will be based at SUNY Sullivan, with tryouts now underway. The team’s arrival brings fresh athletic opportunities and entertainment to the region.For additional information, updates, and resources, visit the Sullivan County website at sullivanny.us.