Goshen, N.Y. – The Orange County Legislature overwhelmingly approved an effort to increase tourism and economic development efforts in the County. The initiatives will dedicate full-time staff, titled Director of Economic Development and Director of Tourism, to work with the private sector, economic developers and tourism attractions to grow the economy in Orange County.
“My administration has made tourism and economic development a top priority over the past four years,” Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus said. “These positions will enhance the work that has been done and will position Orange County to be a leader in New York in terms of tourism and economic development success.
Added Neuhaus: “We must remain competitive when it comes to attracting high paying commercial and manufacturing opportunities. Having County staff who are accountable to the taxpayers and focused on creating economic opportunities will give businesses interested in locating or expanding here a great resource. These new staff members will highlight the numerous services and benefits offered by Orange County and our partner agencies.
Under Neuhaus, Orange County has developed a reputation of being pro-business and getting projects done quickly and efficiently. Approximately 5,000 jobs have been created in Orange County in the past four years. According to the State Department of Taxation, Orange County’s sales tax revenue rose by almost $14 million in 2017, an increase of more than five percent over 2016. It served as the largest gain among seven mid-Hudson region counties.
“County Executive Neuhaus and his team have an economic vision for Orange County that business leaders can understand,” said George Grieve, President of Hudson Transit Lines, Inc. and Regional Vice President of Coach USA. “He brings a common sense approach to business attraction, expansion and retention. Our partnership with the County helped pave the way for Norwegian Air and Coach to have the opportunity to expand our services from New York City to Stewart International Airport. This is a great example of the public and private sectors partnering to drive economic development.”
A search for a Director of Tourism and Director of Economic Development will begin immediately.
“As Orange County continues to grow and change, it is vital that our economic development activities be focused and sharp,” said Steve Brescia, Chairman of the Orange County Legislature. “These two positions will allow County staff to coordinate economic development efforts in the County and enhance the work of state and other local agencies.”
For more information, contact Justin Rodriguez, Assistant to the County Executive for Communications and Media Relations at 845.291.3255 or jrodriguez@orangecountygov.com.
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