County Executive Steve Neuhaus signs resolution
Goshen, N.Y. – On June 12th, with the picturesque Sugar Loaf Mountain as the backdrop, County Executive Steve Neuhaus signed the dotted line buying the 309-acre parcel.
“The concept of preserving the mountain has been talked about for decades. I am proud to say I signed the resolution and now we can start to move forward with exciting plans for the public,” said Neuhaus. “I also wanted to extend a big thank you to the County Legislature and the Orange County Land Trust (OCLT) for teaming up with me to make this happen.”
On Thursday (June 6th), the Orange County Legislature supported the resolution for the County to purchase Sugar Loaf Mountain by a vote of 20-0.
This is a vital first step in the process of creating a new park for residents. Upon the transfer of ownership, Orange County Government, along with the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Conservation, will formalize a plan for park management and public access, including all the essential details of trails and parking. Then, once those details are finalized, the County can schedule the park’s opening. Keep in mind, the property is not yet open to the public until that time.
“We applaud members of the County’s legislature for their unanimous support of the Sugar Loaf Mountain project,” stated OCLT Executive Director, Jim Delaune. “This vote represents a huge first step in the process of creating a new County Park and making this iconic property accessible to the public.”
“County Executive Neuhaus has a great vision and commitment to preserving open space in our County,” said OC Legislator Glenn Ehlers. “This acquisition of Sugar Loaf Mountain is a perfect example of that.”
The OCLT acquired the picturesque Sugar Loaf Mountain property, located in the Town of Chester, back in January for $2.35 million from the Palmer Family, the long-time owner of the property.
“We are so excited about acquiring this County gem and can’t wait to have the public be able to use this,” said Neuhaus. “Now this land will be protected, and our families will be able to enjoy it for years to come.”
For more information, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to the County Executive, Director of Public Information and Media Relations at 845.291.2700 or presscontact@orangecountygov.com.
