OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Peekskill Common Council Work Session: Audit, Capital Projects, and Youth Program – July 6, 2026

Meeting Portal — Monday, July 6, 2026
BodyPeekskill, New York
SessionMeeting Portal
DateMonday, July 6, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 2:09:48

Transcript — Verbatim
0:00

2026.

0:01

We have a couple of presentations and then quite a few agenda items to get through this evening.

0:06

And after that, we will go into an executive session for discussion of matters concerning the medical, financial credit, or employment history of a particular person, persons, or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal, or removal of a particular person, persons, or corporation.

0:25

So at this time I will turn it over to our city.

0:30

Okay.

0:31

Good evening, Mayor and Council.

0:33

Good evening.

0:35

Tonight we have our auditors from O'Connor Davies.

0:41

I'll call you PKF.

0:44

And they're going to talk to us.

0:46

So Tony Tracy are comptroller will introduce them and they're going to talk to us about the audited results for 2025.

0:57

Good evening, Mayor and City Council.

0:59

Good evening.

1:00

So we have Jeff Shaver and Carolyn Kopp from O'Connor Davies here to discuss the 2025 audit and the financial statements.

1:41

Good evening.

1:42

Thank you for the introduction, Tony, members of the City Council.

1:45

Good evening, uh my name is Jeff Shaver, partner with PKF O'Connor Davies.

1:51

Happy to be here to present the results of the audit for the fiscal year ended 2025.

2:06

In terms of the agenda, I'll give you a very brief overview of the audit and then I'll take you through some financial highlights.

2:11

We'll focus mostly on the general fund.

2:13

We'll touch on your other funds briefly and cap off by talking about your debt service.

2:20

Um in terms of the audit, we like to delineate management's responsibilities versus our responsibilities as the auditors.

2:27

And essentially, management is responsible for the fair presentation of the financial statements.

2:33

That includes uh selecting and implementing the appropriate accounting policies, presenting the statements in accordance with U.S.

2:39

GAAP, establishing and maintaining effective internal controls, compliance with laws, regulations, and provisions of contracts, and providing us with all uh records that we request as your auditors.

2:54

We as auditors are primarily responsible for forming and expressing an opinion on the financial statements.

3:00

We've issued what's known as an unmodified opinion on the financial statements.

3:05

Sometimes we refer to that as a clean opinion, and that's the most favorable opinion that you can receive.

3:10

That means that the financial statements are fairly stated in all material respects, and the note disclosures are consistent uh with the previous year and accurately stated.

3:21

We also perform tests of the city's compliance with provisions of laws, contracts, and grants.

3:27

We also have to do uh what's known as the compliance audit in accordance with the uniform guidance.

3:33

Uh that's a federal requirement that if for any entity that expends more than a million dollars in federal expenditures in any given year.

3:41

Uh we've issued a clean audit report on that as well.

3:45

Uh we're required to communicate any deficiencies and internal controls that we consider to be material weaknesses or weaknesses that uh the city council would want to be aware of, and um, you know, management would need to take for medial action.

3:59

Happy to report.

4:00

None no material weaknesses are reported.

4:03

Um we would be required to communicate any fraud or legal acts that we either came upon or became aware of.

4:09

I'm happy to report there, there are none to report.

4:12

Uh there were no significant difficulties in the conduct of our audit.

4:16

Um Tony and the Comptroller's office uh made it a uh a smooth uh process for us.

4:24

We received everything that we requested, and um overall the process was relatively smooth, and we didn't have any disagreements with management.

4:34

And we as auditors are required to be independent with respect to the city and and we are okay.

4:42

So getting into some financial highlights.

4:44

This is the general fund.

4:47

Revenues and expenditures compared to the budget.

4:51

So this is very high level.

4:52

I'll take you into some more details on the next slides.

4:55

Uh the top of the line is the revenues.

5:00

Before I start with the numbers, it's it's four columns here with the original budget in your first column.

5:06

The final, the second budget is the final budget that would encompass any approved transfers or amendments made during the year.

5:12

Third column is the actual, and the final column is the variance between the final budget and the actual.

5:18

You can see revenues were initially anticipated to be $54,542,000.

5:24

The actual revenues were $51,841,000, some $3.3 million less than what was anticipated to be collected.

5:33

From the expenditure side of the budget, the initial budget plan called for expenditures of $56.4 million, while the actual expenditures were $54.4 million, about $2.6 million less than the final budget.

5:50

The difference between the revenue variance of $3.3 and expenditure variance of $2.6 yields a net variance compared to your budget of $600,000, unfavorable.

6:05

So you met you did not meet your budget plan by $600,000.

6:10

Keep in mind when the budget was adopted, there's always uh or commonly a use of fund balance as part of the budget or appropriation of fund balance.

6:22

And that number shows us the balancing figure in the original budget column.

6:26

And that number was 980,000.

6:29

That includes uh 350,000 appropriation of fund balance and 630,000 of open purchase orders from the previous year carrying over.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Youth Programs█████████████13%
Fiscal Sustainability████████████12%
Engineering And Infrastructure███████████11%
Transportation Safety███████████11%
Public Safety█████████9%
Community Engagement████████8%
Parking Management██████6%
Zoning And Land Use██████6%
Procedural█████5%
Summary of Proceedings

Peekskill Common Council Work Session – July 6, 2026

The Common Council held a work session on July 6, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Common Council Chamber. The meeting featured three presentations – the 2025 audit, capital projects updates, and a proposed youth arts program – followed by discussion of 11 agenda items covering finance, public safety, planning, and community engagement. The council took no final votes, but authorized staff to bring multiple resolutions for approval at the next meeting and scheduled public hearings for future dates.

Presentations

  • Audit (2025 Financial Statements) – Jeffrey Shaver (PKF O’Connor Davies) presented the audited results. The city received a “clean” (unmodified) opinion with no material weaknesses or fraud reported. General fund revenues were $51.841M, $3.3M below the final budget of $54.542M. Expenditures were $54.4M, $2.6M under the $56.4M final budget. The net variance was $600,000 unfavorable, leading to a decrease in fund balance of $1.575M (planned use of $980,000 plus the unfavorable variance). Unassigned fund balance stands at $4.155M (7% of total expenditures). Total fund balance is $16.4M, down from $17.7M two years prior. Shaver highlighted that transfer-tax revenues restricted for the firehouse debt service are accumulating, and the city may need legal advice to use those funds for other purposes. Council members thanked staff for keeping expenditures low and stressed the need to boost revenues.
  • Capital Projects – Peter Erwin (Assistant Director of Planning) reviewed four projects totaling ~$11M in construction, all grant-funded: (1) Downtown Civic Hub (Park & Division St.) – 20% complete, on schedule for public reopening by July 31, 2026, and full completion by November 2026; (2) Mid-Hudson Momentum Fund – six intersection upgrades downtown, design at 30%, construction expected early 2027; (3) Municipal garage repairs (James St. & Nelson Ave.) – structural repairs this fall, aesthetic improvements in 2027; (4) Riverfront Green Park – resiliency improvements added, a contract amendment ($19,000) for Matrix New World Engineering to complete design, with a resolution and RFP for construction administration coming next week. Council discussed pedestrian safety at the flagpole intersection and the need to communicate parking changes.
  • Rhythm of Resiliency Program – Wilfredo Morel (Executive Director, Arts 10566) presented a free youth program (ages 12–18/21, up to 50 students) using spoken word, drumming, and dance/dance movement. The program runs September–June 2027 (two cohorts: Sep–Dec, Feb–Jun), meeting Wed/Thu 5–7 PM. Morel requested use of the Field Library space across from City Hall at no cost. The city manager mentioned a possible Memorandum of Understanding to allow the use. Council members praised the program and asked about recruitment, mentorship, and continuity. Morel confirmed the program is funded entirely by Arts 10566 and is open to all youth.

Discussion Items

  • Section 8 Annual Plan – Jessica Gannis requested a public hearing to adopt the 2027 plan. Key accomplishment: project-based voucher program at 901-907 Main Street secured 31 units (17 leased, 14 remaining). A public hearing is needed by September 14, 2026. Council agreed to schedule it.
  • Parking Kiosks – Comptroller Tony Tracy proposed purchasing nine new parking kiosks (pay-by-plate) via Sourcewell cooperative for mid-August installation, migrating from coin meters. The new system supports Passport app. Cost will be covered by capital funds. Council expressed support and requested an interim public video explaining the transition.
  • CPR Device (Lucas) – Lieutenant Ferris (Fire Dept.) requested purchase of one Lucas chest compression device for $21,714.77 via Sourcewell. It will be placed on the primary EMS fire engine. Council supported the purchase.
  • Youth Employment Program – The Youth Bureau seeks authorization to submit a Youth Employment Program proposal (funded through TANF). Council agreed.
  • Community Hub Public Input – City Manager Matt Alexander described the city’s plan to gather community input on the future Community Hub facility, including a table at National Night Out (Aug. 4) and other outreach. No action needed.
  • 2026 Street Tree Planting – Planner Sam Warden-Hertz proposed planting up to 68 New York native trees through the New York Power Authority’s Tree Power program, focusing on high heat-island areas (e.g., 2nd St. and Union). The DPW may contract with an existing tree-planting contractor to expedite. Council expressed enthusiasm and requested location list.
  • 418 N. Division Street – Public Hearing – Planner Carol G. requested to schedule a public hearing for September 2026 for a special permit and bonus height application for a mixed-use building (158 affordable rental units, retail, 222 parking spaces) at 418 N. Division Street (also 407, 425, 427 Highland Ave.). The planning commission will review SEQR exemption. Council agreed.
  • 301 N. Division Street – Special Permit Follow-up – This is a minor auto repair shop. The applicant submitted an affidavit addressing circulation and curb cut reduction. Staff recommended conditions: 10-year term, curb cut/ parking plan subject to planning commission approval, air filtration compliance, no on-street vehicle storage, and option to revoke for noncompliance. Council questions about employee parking (solved via off-site lease) and removal of spray booth. Council seemed satisfied; a resolution for approval will be brought next week.
  • TK Elevator Contracts – The city is renewing maintenance contracts for five elevators (monthly fees ~$35K total, 36-month terms). No formal bid required. Council directed staff to bring a resolution.
  • E-Bike and E-Scooter Local Law – Chief Renwick proposed a public hearing for August 17, 2026 to adopt regulations (Chapter 182 amendments). Key provisions: no sidewalk riding citywide, helmet requirements, lights at night, no passengers, and penalties including impoundment. Council asked to expand the definition to cover other electric devices (e.g., skateboards, unicycles) and to increase fines for causing harm. Staff will revise and bring an updated version before the public hearing.
  • National Night Out Contract – The Police Department accepted a $1,200 service agreement from Westchester County to support community engagement. Council noted approval.
  • Council Liaison Reports – Council members praised city staff for recent events (Juneteenth, Pride, July 4th). Councilwoman Chang noted the Human Relations Commission now has a quorum. Councilman DeGruzio suggested a commercial vacant property registration ordinance and asked city attorney to research. Councilman Fassett requested a city-information video on the shuttle service.

Key Outcomes

  • Public Hearings Scheduled:
    • Section 8 Annual Plan – September 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM.
    • E-Bike/Scooter Local Law – August 17, 2026 (subject to revision).
    • 418 N. Division Street Special Permit – September 2026 (exact date to be set).
  • Resolutions to be Brought Next Week (July 13):
    • Purchase of 9 parking kiosks.
    • Purchase of Lucas CPR device.
    • Authorization to submit Youth Employment Program application.
    • Approval of special permit for 301 N. Division Street (with conditions).
    • TK Elevator maintenance contracts.
    • Contract amendment for Riverfront Green Park design work and RFP for construction administration.
  • Community Hub Feedback: City will collect public input at National Night Out (Aug. 4) and other events.
  • Street Tree Planting: Staff authorized to proceed with purchase/planting of up to 68 trees; DPW to explore using existing contracted tree planter.
  • Executive Session: The council voted to enter executive session to discuss personnel matters (medical, financial, employment history).

Meeting Transcript

2026. We have a couple of presentations and then quite a few agenda items to get through this evening. And after that, we will go into an executive session for discussion of matters concerning the medical, financial credit, or employment history of a particular person, persons, or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal, or removal of a particular person, persons, or corporation. So at this time I will turn it over to our city. Okay. Good evening, Mayor and Council. Good evening. Tonight we have our auditors from O'Connor Davies. I'll call you PKF. And they're going to talk to us. So Tony Tracy are comptroller will introduce them and they're going to talk to us about the audited results for 2025. Good evening, Mayor and City Council. Good evening. So we have Jeff Shaver and Carolyn Kopp from O'Connor Davies here to discuss the 2025 audit and the financial statements. Good evening. Thank you for the introduction, Tony, members of the City Council. Good evening, uh my name is Jeff Shaver, partner with PKF O'Connor Davies. Happy to be here to present the results of the audit for the fiscal year ended 2025. In terms of the agenda, I'll give you a very brief overview of the audit and then I'll take you through some financial highlights. We'll focus mostly on the general fund. We'll touch on your other funds briefly and cap off by talking about your debt service. Um in terms of the audit, we like to delineate management's responsibilities versus our responsibilities as the auditors. And essentially, management is responsible for the fair presentation of the financial statements. That includes uh selecting and implementing the appropriate accounting policies, presenting the statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, establishing and maintaining effective internal controls, compliance with laws, regulations, and provisions of contracts, and providing us with all uh records that we request as your auditors. We as auditors are primarily responsible for forming and expressing an opinion on the financial statements. We've issued what's known as an unmodified opinion on the financial statements. Sometimes we refer to that as a clean opinion, and that's the most favorable opinion that you can receive. That means that the financial statements are fairly stated in all material respects, and the note disclosures are consistent uh with the previous year and accurately stated. We also perform tests of the city's compliance with provisions of laws, contracts, and grants. We also have to do uh what's known as the compliance audit in accordance with the uniform guidance. Uh that's a federal requirement that if for any entity that expends more than a million dollars in federal expenditures in any given year. Uh we've issued a clean audit report on that as well. Uh we're required to communicate any deficiencies and internal controls that we consider to be material weaknesses or weaknesses that uh the city council would want to be aware of, and um, you know, management would need to take for medial action. Happy to report. None no material weaknesses are reported. Um we would be required to communicate any fraud or legal acts that we either came upon or became aware of. I'm happy to report there, there are none to report. Uh there were no significant difficulties in the conduct of our audit. Um Tony and the Comptroller's office uh made it a uh a smooth uh process for us. We received everything that we requested, and um overall the process was relatively smooth, and we didn't have any disagreements with management. And we as auditors are required to be independent with respect to the city and and we are okay. So getting into some financial highlights. This is the general fund. Revenues and expenditures compared to the budget. So this is very high level. I'll take you into some more details on the next slides. Uh the top of the line is the revenues. Before I start with the numbers, it's it's four columns here with the original budget in your first column. The final, the second budget is the final budget that would encompass any approved transfers or amendments made during the year.

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