Joseph Donaldson was born in the City of Kingston, attended school here, and raised two sons who still reside locally. Donaldson has been employed at the Kingston Water Department for 30 years where he has served as shop steward for 20 years. He is a former member of the Ulster County Human Rights Commission for 10 years and previously served as chair City of Kingston Democratic Committee. 

Donaldson is currently running for his second term on the Ulster County Legislature. He serves on the Environment, Energy, and Sustainability, and Public Works and Capital Projects committees. 

Among the issues Donaldson is working to resolve is whether to site a new landfill within county boundaries or develop alternate solutions to the growing solid waste disposal problem. 

Donaldson has been focusing his energies on improving the county's roads and bridges, building a new 911 control center, and ensuring that county-owned buildings and vehicles are transitioning to using clean, sustainable energy. Donaldson's priorities also include creating affordable and clean housing for everyone, establishing sustainable job opportunities and providing resources that support education for the jobs of the future. 

Donaldson said it has been a privilege to serve the people of Ulster County and he looks forward to continuing his service to the people of Ulster County and District 8.