Rich Mayfield Accepts New Post at USDA

GOSHEN – Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus announced on Thursday that Community Development Director Rich Mayfield was leaving his position with the County. Mayfield will be joining the United States Department of Agriculture as its Director of Rural Development for New York State.

“I have known Rich for over 20 years, dating back to his time working for Congressman Ben Gilman,” Neuhaus said. “Rich is a consummate professional who cares deeply about his work, and the Orange County residents that he proudly serves. He has always been respected and admired by his peers. The Department of Agriculture has made an excellent choice in selecting Rich and I know that he will do a wonderful job for the federal government.”

Mayfield was appointed as Orange County’s Community Development Director in February 2013. He previously served as the County’s Director of Operations, having joined the County in 2007 as the Press Secretary and Assistant to the County Executive for then County Executive Ed Diana.

A life-long Orange County resident, Mayfield served as district director for Congressman Ben Gilman for 12 years and director of the Office of Inter-Governmental Relations with the New York State Assembly, before joining County government. Mayfield’s last day with Orange County will be on Friday, June 15th.

“It is an honor to be selected by the President to fill the extremely important role of State Director of Rural Development in New York,” Mayfield said. “I look forward to working with the President, Secretary of Agriculture and the Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development to increase rural prosperity and enhance customer service through innovation and partnerships in the state. I have enjoyed my time in County government and am grateful for the support of County Executive Neuhaus, members of the Legislature and my many friends and colleagues in County government.”