DENNING, NY — Denning residents will have a chance to pose public safety concerns directly to Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa during a community town hall on Saturday, September 19, at 4 p.m. at the Claryville Volunteer Fire Department, 1500 Denning Road. The meeting, organized by community members, will allow residents to ask questions and discuss local law enforcement, emergency response and safety concerns. A Zoom option is available for those unable to attend in person at this link.

A central concern is the lack of local law enforcement in Denning. In an emergency, residents rely primarily on the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office and New York State Police, whose officers may have to travel considerable distances to reach the town. This town hall provides an opportunity to discuss what can be done to improve response, visibility, and safety in Denning.

“This town hall is about listening to our community and making sure residents have a chance to be heard by local government officials," said Sheriff Figueroa. “I encourage Denning residents and our Ulster County neighbors to join us, ask questions, and share their concerns.”

The Denning town hall is a chance for residents to have a face-to-face conversation about issues that affect their everyday lives. No special knowledge or preparation is needed. All residents of Claryville, Sundown and nearby areas in Ulster County are invited to bring their questions. Denning Town Board Supervisor David Brooks will be in attendance.

Sheriff Juan Figueroa was first elected Ulster County Sheriff in 2018. He is currently seeking a third term in 2026 and is running unopposed. Before becoming Sheriff, Figueroa served 25 years with the New York State Police and served in the U.S. Marine Corps, including during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

Figueroa has taken a proactive approach to substance use and addiction. His office created ORACLE - Opioid Response as County Law Enforcement - in 2019, bringing law enforcement together with social workers and peer-support advocates to respond to overdoses and connect people with treatment and support. The program has received national recognition as an innovative rural justice approach.

Figueroa is also currently president of the New York State Sheriffs’ Association, giving him a statewide role in discussions about public safety and law enforcement.