SUNY Delhi Hosts Delaware County Regional Innovation Council Meeting on Housing Needs

DELHI — On Thursday, February 13, SUNY Delhi hosted the Delaware County Regional Innovation Council (RIC) for its first meeting of 2025, focusing on the housing challenges facing Delaware County communities. The meeting took place at Bluestone, located at the College Golf Course at Delhi, where over 50 community members gathered to be part of the conversation.

Tina B. Mole, Chairman of the Delaware County Board, and SUNY Delhi President Mary Bonderoff delivered opening remarks, emphasizing how housing shortages impact the quality of life, workforce retention, and economic growth across the region. Both leaders highlighted the importance of collaboration among individuals, businesses, and government to address these challenges. They conveyed a strong message of optimism, expressing the need for cooperation and partnerships to find solutions to help our shared communities thrive.

Shelly J. Johnson-Bennett, Delaware County Commissioner of Planning, Parks and Watershed Affairs, presented findings from a recently completed housing study, funded by a New York State Empire State Development grant, which highlights key challenges such as affordability gaps, rental shortages, aging housing stock, and the impact of seasonal and short-term rentals on availability. These findings will directly inform the recommendations and action plans of the Delaware County Board as they develop an updated comprehensive strategic plan to address housing needs.

The meeting also featured a panel discussion moderated by Delhi Town Council Member Christina Viafore, where area employers shared how the lack of available and affordable housing is directly affecting their ability to recruit, hire, and retain employees. Panelists emphasized the urgent need for collaborative solutions to support both the workforce and local businesses.

"SUNY Delhi takes great pride in our unique role as a convener, bringing together key leaders and partners to tackle the challenges our communities face," said SUNY Delhi President Mary Bonderoff. "By working together, we can create meaningful solutions that support the long-term success of Delaware County."

The Regional Innovation Council will continue discussions in the coming months, working with local, regional, and state partners to address housing challenges and support sustainable economic growth.

About the Delaware County Regional Innovation Council (RIC)

The Delaware County Regional Innovation Council (RIC) was established in 2024 as a coalition of leading institutions and stakeholders committed to forging partnerships that create new opportunities and strengthen the economic future of our shared region.

The RIC will focus on identifying shared priorities and opportunities that enhance the ability of businesses, non-profits, and communities to thrive.