2008 Annual Report Executive Summary

Sullivan-Wawarsing REAP Zone

REAP was approaching the last year of the initial ten year designation until the 2008 Farm Bill was passed and has been extended thru September 30, 2012.

Currently there are two vacancies on the Board, one which was vacated by Dr. Martin Handler, Co-President. Other vacancies that happened throughout the year have been filled by dedicated people who want to ensure that the REAP Zone designation is used to its fullest potential. The REAP board was waiting to see what happened to the designation before filling the last vacancy. Due to the extension the Board will have a restructuring meeting in March of 2009.

REAP is fully dedicated to the development of the Liberty Ag and Light Industrial Park. This park is where the proposed red meat processing facility would be located. With the build out of this park, great economic development opportunity would come. Along with the lot for the red meat facility there are other lots available to buy for industries who wish to build in Sullivan County. With close proximity to State Route 17 (future Interstate 86), the park has an ideal location for any business.

The Sullivan County Agricultural Economic Development Specialist still remains responsible for the administration of the Sullivan-Wawarsing REAP Zone. The SW REAP will now be housed in the Sullivan County Division Planning and Environmental Management instead of the Division of Community and Economic Development.