During the Delaware County Board of Supervisors Organizational Meeting held on May 16, 2025, a heartfelt tribute was paid to Jim Thompson, who served as chairman of the Delaware County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) for three decades. Thompson, a local business owner and advocate for the community, was recognized for his unwavering support of family-owned businesses and his commitment to preserving the county's rural character.

Thompson's leadership was marked by his efforts to foster growth among local businesses while also attracting new enterprises to the area. His dedication to enhancing agriculture in Delaware County was particularly noteworthy, as he played a crucial role in financing agribusiness initiatives that supported the agricultural community.

In the early 1990s, Thompson demonstrated foresight regarding the potential negative impacts of new regulations stemming from the New York City watershed filtration avoidance program. He collaborated closely with planning and economic development director Ken Burry to address these concerns, ultimately contributing to the formation of the Catskill Watershed towns and the 1997 memorandum of agreement that protected local interests.

The board's acknowledgment of Thompson's legacy highlighted his love for Delaware County and his passion for improving life in the region. His vision and dedication to the business community will be remembered as a significant part of the county's history, leaving a lasting impact on its residents and future development.