Tomorrow we usher in 2020… so what's in store for Sullivan County?

The new casino has had their financial struggles but a reorganization hopefully will be the answer.

Government and economic development officials still believe that Resorts World Catskills and its recreation and entertainment projects will place Sullivan County on the map as a major destination.

It's good to see a continued growth pattern in job growth with unemployment remaining under 4% with projects on the table that should provide us with additional growth and job opportunities.

This beautiful destination in the heart of the Catskill Mountains has great assets, beautiful scenery, lakes for fishing and boating, outstanding golf courses, hiking trails, good restaurants etc. etc.

County residents need better paying jobs… the future of our county will depend on this.

With the new year the county legislature will see new faces who we expect will work together to do the job of transforming an over taxed citizenry into a welcome sign that will reduce the tax burden and alleviate the trend that is presently seeing so many leaving the area and the state.

Government including school districts can help by sharing services and seriously looking at true consolidation.

How can New York State government justify the fact that the state continually comes in dead last of the 50 states in a survey of economic freedom because of its high taxes, large government and business relations.

Sullivan County hopefully will see economic freedom and prosperity in 2020 and a government that supports low taxation, limited government and flexible labor markets for greater economic growth.

Our future awaits many important decisions. New development and building projects are welcoming signs that Sullivan County is not sleeping.

Hats off to the Sullivan County Visitors Association that is still experiencing state leading visitation numbers and using media channels to increase traveler activity and spending in Sullivan County.

We wish everyone a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year.

Ed Townsend provides year around "Beyond The News"coverage in this column with over 60-years of photojournalism analysis and insight. The column can also be read on his Web blog at http://bght.blogspot.com