Longtime county employee and Ulster County Legislature Clerk Karen Binder died Tuesday morning, according to a release from Ulster County Legislature Chairwoman Terry Bernardo. “Karen fought a courageous health battle with internal strength and unbending optimism” and passed with her family by her side, the release stated.
“Karen was a valued member of our legislative team providing the leadership and support needed to do the important work of the people. She loved her job and provided a commitment to public service that was unquestioned, she will be sorely missed,” Bernardo stated in the release.
Binder was appointed clerk of the legislature in 2010 after serving as deputy clerk since 2006. She joined the legislative staff in 2004 and had previously worked at the Office of Veterans Affairs from 1973 to 1978. “All in total, over 12 years of public service provided to Ulster County with a sincere commitment to excellence and helping people,” stated the release.
“Her kindness, caring and professional manner will be deeply missed. She was a wonderful person,” Legislative Vice-Chairman James Maloney stated.
Legislative Minority Leader Dave Donaldson stated that “Karen continued to dedicate herself to the legislature and the county as a whole right to the very end, and was always such a pleasure to be around.”