David Church to retire after 17 years as county planning commissioner
Goshen. Church developed the county’s comprehensive and shared services plans, helped bring Coach USA’s headquarters to Chester, and led conservation projects.
Goshen /
| 12 Nov 2019 | 08:10
David Church (left) with Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus
David Church, Orange County's longtime planning commissioner, will retire effective late January 2020.
Church has served as commissioner for nearly 17 years.
“I have been honored to serve the public with a wonderful and rewarding career here in Orange County and before that in Albany,” he said. “I feel that now is the right time for me to retire from public service here in Orange County. I would like to thank all of the men and women that I’ve had the privilege to work with both in the County and throughout the community during my career. They are all part of the pleasure of this work.”
A trained geologist, Church began his tenure with Orange County in May 2002. He previously served as the executive director of the New York Planning Federation, and also work with the World Wildlife Fund/Conservation Foundation. Earlier in his career, he was partner with an environmental consulting firm.
“Dave Church is knowledgeable and well-liked by his peers,” said Steve Neuhaus, the Orange County executive. “He did a wonderful job leading the planning department, and I enjoyed working closely with him. Dave developed a variety of innovative green initiatives that benefited the County and its residents. He was always conscious about the environment and preserving open space. I wish Dave all the best in his retirement.”
“Dave served Orange County with dedication and diligence,” said Steve Brescia, Chairman of the Orange County Legislature. “He is a consummate professional and cared deeply about his work and the people of Orange County. I commend him on a remarkable career and wish him the best in retirement.”
Achievements:
During his time as planning commissioner, David Church:
Oversaw the Orange County Water Authority, Orange County Transportation Council, and the county’s Grants Unit;
Secured more than $20 million in state and federal grants for the county;
Revitalized the planning department to a full staff of nearly 25;
Developed the county’s comprehensive plan, a detailed assessment of transportation assets and deficits that guides the county government in defining priorities and allocating funds;
Played an integral role in expanding bus services in the City of Newburgh, bringing Coach USA’s headquarters to Chester, reintroducing ferry service between Newburgh and Beacon, and making all park-and-ride commuter bus stops free in Orange County;
Led several conservation projects, including the purchase of the Sparrowbush Delaware River access site, which protects thousands of acres in the county.
Worked closely with the county executive to develop the County’s Shared Services Plan, which saved the county an estimated $8 million in 2019. Introduced by Governor Andrew Cuomo, the Shared Services Initiative is designed to generate property tax savings by encouraging collaboration between local governments.