Ulster County Government will look a little different come Tuesday morning 1/3/2012 with the swift departure of one key figure and the termination of another.
Deputy County Executive Marshall Beckman's unexpected exit from the 6th floor has many wondering if this was a result of a disagreement between the Executive and Beckman over the Golden Hill Health Care Center and the creation of a local development corporation, whose sole mission is to sell and privatize the facility. Rumor has it that Beckman identified a defect in the plan and when brought it to the Executive's attention was summarily shown the door. That's doubtful!
Some also believed that Marshall, with a strong background in the human services, also appeared to be unhappy with the Executive's decimation of the County's Mental Health program. Doubtful as well!
He has been replaced with an operative from Suffolk County, Ken Crannell who was involved in the failed gubernatorial effort of that county's executive (Steve Levy). Levy switched from Democrat to Republican under Crannell's watch in a desperate effort to launch a challenge for the Albany top spot.
Political pundits are wondering what the Ulster County Exec has up his sleeve?
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Another turn of events in Ulster finds DSS Commissioner Roberto Rodriguez shown the door after his five year contract failed to be renewed. The Commish certainly did not endear himself to his constituents, clients and numerous elected officials. Sources say he appeared to be arrogant, uncaring and combative.
His absence affords a "nationwide" search by the Executive and an opportunity to place an interim commissioner in the slot until a suitable candidate is found.
Can you say Marshall Beckman?
