The new directive, ordered by recently elected Ulster County Sheriff Paul Van Blarcum, is meant to increase the police agency's responsiveness to problems before they become a major nuisance.

However, Councilman Terry Houck read a statement that expressed his views on the subject saying, "The residents and taxpayers in the Town of Wawarsing have recently suffered and have been caused to endure extraordinary economic set backs." The statement went on to cite the loss of Imperial Schrade, the impending closing of Hydro Aluminum and the near empty mall building as reasons why he wished to make clear the town board's position regarding any large development.

His resolution begins, "The Town Board has full confidence that if a proposal for the development of the property known as the Napanoch Mall is submitted to the Town of Wawarsing Planning Board, that the members of the Planning Board and the professionals who serve as advisors to that board…will diligently apply the law governing such development and thoroughly investigate all relevant issues."

The resolution concludes that the Town Board does not see any reason why it should amend zoning ordinances for that area, nor does it see any reason to authorize, "any additional input studies other than presently authorized."

Mr. Dolaway felt that the measure of support was unnecessary in that, if the board did not pass the resolution, the same studies and zoning laws would still be required.