GROWING GREENE: COUNTY LEGISLATURE FUELING GROWTH

The transformation of Catskill can be credited, in part, to the Greene County Legislature, whose creative and effective Main Street Revitalization Program is transforming the County's historic downtown areas one building at a time. Whether it is Main Street in Catskill or Main Street in Windham, the investments are fueling a stronger economy in Greene County. The Greene County Planning and Economic Development Department, whose mission is to foster a business-friendly climate, is proactive in helping businesses in Catskill and Greene County grow. Working in concert with state and federal sources, this county agency provides new and existing businesses with tools to succeed.

Financial Incentive Programs
Financial incentives in the form of low-interest loans from the county are available through the Revolving Loan Program. Designed to meet the needs of both expanding businesses and companies considering relocation to Greene County, the program provides financing for acquisition, renovation, working capital, furniture, fixtures and equipment. All business sectors, including industry, retail, services, agriculture and tourism, are eligible for the program.

The Greene County Planning and Economic Development Department delivers a full continuum of loan and grant programs to help businesses. The highly successful Micro-enterprise Assistance Program is ideal for entrepreneurs and small businesses, while the Quantum Fund offers loans up to $400,000.

The Main Street Revitalization Program offers Façade and Business Attraction grants to help restore historic buildings and breathe new life into the county's downtowns. The new Tourism Enhancement Program makes grants available to help this vital sector of Greene County's economy compete.

In addition to incentives, a wide range of resources are available to existing businesses and entrepreneurs in Greene County. They include:
Financial Incentives
Empire Zone Incentives
Technical & Regulatory Assistancen
On-line Searchable Sites & Buildings Inventory

Greene County Empire Zone Designation
Companies relocating or expanding in the Greene County Empire Zone can dramatically cut the cost of a proposed project and the cost of doing business through sales tax exemptions, property tax credits, income tax reductions, wage tax credits, investment tax credits and employee incentive credits. Certified, job-creating businesses can operate virtually tax-free for up to 10 years in an Empire Zone.
The Department of Planning and Economic Development Department manages the local Empire Zone program, which was developed by New York State to foster the creation of jobs and encourage investment in targeted areas. The program is administered by a local Zone Administrative Board, appointed by the Greene County Legislature.

A single source for business
The Greene County Planning and Economic Development Department creates a viable business climate in Greene County by working closely with companies to help them remain competitive and expand their business. Fostering small business growth, while maintaining larger businesses in a variety of industries is critical to the county's growth. The Planning and Economic Development Department provides a broad range of programs from low-interest loans and grants to training, and other types of assistance to help companies succeed in Greene County.

For more information on these programs or other related questions, please contact:
Warren Hart, AICP
Director
Greene County Planning and Economic Development Department
(518) 719-3290

Walking Tour: To take self-guided walking tour of Main Street Catskill, click here.

Lodging: To find a lodging facility, click here.

Dining: To find a dining facility, click here.