Public Meetings - Peekskill, New York

The Peekskill Common Council met on November 2, 2026, in a work session described in the transcript as a committee of the whole meeting; the agenda listed a 6:45 p.m. start. No minutes were available. Most items were discussed for resolutions to return at the November 9 Common Council meeting, and no final council votes on the substantive items were recorded before the meeting moved into executive session. The agenda covered recreation and event approvals, property-tax exemptions, water and sewer bids and grants, a fire event closure, a Maple/Hudson traffic study, a DISH Wireless bankruptcy claim, and liaison reports. Recreation & Events - Jonathan Zamora of Recreation/Community Hub presented five items. For the annual holiday tree lighting, staff requested a street-closure application for Saturday, December 5, 4–8 p.m. Construction at the downtown intersection prompted discussion about anchoring the approximately 25-foot tree; staff said the best alternative location was across the street near the Harriet Tubman statue/flagpole, but anchoring remained unresolved. A council member asked whether to move the event to 'Bugsley Park'; staff agreed to return next week with clarification. - New Year’s Eve celebration: street closures were requested for Thursday, December 31, in the downtown area; staff said the event would be organized in-house, including band/entertainment. - Chapter 416 bikes and parks: staff presented Parks Advisory Board input on whether hiking and biking should share trails or have separate trails/access. One member had reservations and urged long-term stewardship of DePew Park; one supported maintaining access and said there was no evidence it would increase parking, bathroom, trash, or other conflicts and would keep the status quo of 20 years; one disagreed and said alternative days could improve safety and reduce conflict; a fourth disagreed via email; a fifth supported via email; a sixth did not respond. Staff said documents do not require biking as the only use and the city could manage access. Council members raised concerns about outside organized events, parking in residential areas, and maintenance costs, and clarified the discussion concerned pedal bikes, not motocross or e-bikes. A suggested green trail from the pool parking lot into Blue Mountain was noted as often muddy and not suitable for beginners. A council member said they would not favor circumventing Blue Mountain parking fees by parking in DePew and suggested the city should charge if needed. No decision was made; staff will continue gathering information. - Fireworks: staff requested authorization for a December 31, 2026 display with Garden State Fireworks at $8,500, and a July 4, 2027 display at $50,925; both contracts include inclement-weather rescheduling language and would return by resolution. - The council asked staff to group street closures and fireworks items for the next agenda/consent. Assessor & Tax Exemptions - Paula of the Assessment Department presented four items. Surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty: a local option for up to a 50% assessed-value exemption, not applicable to special districts; based on the 2026 city tax rate and an average $9,707 assessment, an eligible taxpayer would save $1,535.79. Westchester County has adopted it effective for the 2027 assessment roll. A council member asked whether remarriage affects eligibility; staff said the law is unclear and would confirm. - Military active service members exemption: for active-duty U.S. Armed Forces, National Guard, or New York Naval Militia who own/claim a primary residence and served in a combat zone in the prior calendar year before the May 1 taxable status date. It would reduce assessment by up to 25% or $20,000 in full value, whichever is less; it is temporary and must be renewed annually. Staff estimated the maximum benefit at approximately 130.37 cents as stated, based on the current equalization rate and 2026 tax rate; Westchester has adopted it effective 2027. The council would need to set the percentage by resolution/local law. - Alternative veterans exemption revision: the current exemption is 50% of an established disability rating and does not apply to special districts. The new local option would provide a full property tax exemption for seriously disabled veterans with permanent and total disability due to military service, including special districts; it would apply only to the alternative veterans exemption, not the Cold War veterans exemption. Fiscal estimate: total veterans tax exemptions would increase by approximately $40,000 — $33,000 city and $7,000 library — benefiting no more than 26 existing disabled veterans, with average additional savings of $1,540 per household. Westchester has adopted it effective 2027. - Tax map maintenance contract: staff recommended renewing with CAI Technologies for 2027 at unchanged pricing, citing responsiveness and service. - If the council proceeds, resolutions would be prepared for November 9 and a public hearing scheduled for November 23. Water, Sewer & Infrastructure - Dave Rambo presented the water maintenance materials bid: 43 categories and six bidders/companies, with an additional bidder winning about 13 categories at substantially lower prices and meeting AWWA standards; a resolution was requested. Council discussion noted price increases; staff said exact calculation was difficult, while chemicals rose about 15%. - Water treatment plant chemicals/sludge removal: staff reported about a 15% increase and more bidders; liquid carbon dioxide from the usual vendor rose from $350 two years ago to $440 last year to about $520–$525 this year. A quote was also obtained to supply bulk chlorine to the DePew Park pool. - Sewer: staff requested acceptance of a $50,000 NYSEFC wastewater infrastructure engineering planning grant to study inflow and infiltration; the $10,000 match would be offset by city staff administrative/field work rather than a cash check. The study would focus on the north end and support future remediation applications; separate south-end work including Bleelock Park and Washington Street was noted, with $1 million from an earlier water infrastructure grant. - Staff also announced a $2.5 million award for rehabilitation of the lower water-supply dam, addressing DEC requirements that the dam pass more water; council thanked state and DEC partners. Fire, Planning & Legal - Fire Department Reindeer Run: requested closure of Park Division, Bank, Brown, and Broad for one hour on December 5, 10–11 a.m.; the event collects new unwrapped toys and non-perishable food, with Santa at the firehouse 11 a.m.–1 p.m. A resolution is to return. - Maple and Hudson traffic study: staff requested approval of $9,280 for a traffic safety assessment including a field visit, 24-hour vehicle/pedestrian/cyclist data, peak-hour review, signal warrant evaluation, crash/DOT records, quick-build treatments, concept designs, and a cost estimate. The intersection involves a county-managed state road; staff said they would coordinate with the county. Recent actions included parking regulations, additional signage, enforcement, and possibly three blinking stop signs, which staff would confirm. Speed data near Ferris on Maple would also be collected. A resolution is to return. - DISH Wireless bankruptcy: the City Attorney reported DISH filed for bankruptcy in Houston and sought to cancel leases, including a 2003 lease for equipment at the water tower on 138 Banafield. The city filed a claim for $39,150; CRG Financial offered to purchase the claim at 57%, or $22,511.25, which the attorney recommended accepting given uncertainty and delay. Council members asked about removal or abandonment of equipment and the cost to remove it; the attorney would confirm. A resolution was recommended. Liaison Reports - Councilman DeGrazia: CAC garlic festival November 6, 3:30–5 p.m. at Regeneration Farm in DePew Park, rain date November 7 at 2 p.m.; youth bureau community giveaway November 7, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.; Fordham football trip November 14; Thanksgiving basket giveaway November 18; Father Factor Thanksgiving brunch November 21, 1–3 p.m. at the firehouse; youth bureau closed November 3, 11, 26, and 27. - Councilman Bassett: farmers market and flea market have three weekends left; vendor appreciation next weekend; BID board meets Wednesday this week at 6 p.m. at City Hall. - Deputy Mayor: senior Halloween party and trunk-or-treat were well attended; thanked the fire department. - Councilman Rigger: thanked Ben Alexander, DPW, and Cornell for quickly fixing a Paramount dock light. - Councilman Chang: HRC met and is working with police on a community survey by month’s end and with faith leaders; attended a heart-health event with NAACP and a local hospital; noted the Mount Olivet bell dedication. - Mayor: encouraged voting on Election Day and noted Wilfredo is gathering history on the Mount Olivet bell. Key Outcomes - No final votes were taken on the substantive agenda items; staff was directed to return with resolutions at the November 9 Common Council meeting, including street closures, fireworks, tax exemptions, tax map renewal, water/sewer bids and grant, Reindeer Run closure, traffic study, and DISH claim assignment. - Public hearings on the tax exemptions were contemplated for November 23 if the council proceeds. - The meeting closed with a motion to enter executive session to discuss personnel/medical/financial/credit/employment history or appointment/employment matters; it was seconded and approved by all in favor.

The Historic & Landmarks Preservation Board met Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in the Common Council Chamber. The board approved the September 24, 2026 meeting minutes, adjusted the agenda to hear 38 North Division Street first, reviewed two Certificate of Appropriateness applications, and held over remaining business until December 3. Discussion Items - September 24 meeting minutes: A motion to approve the minutes passed by voice vote; one board member abstained because they were not present at that meeting. - 38 North Division Street – Applicant Patrick Neville / Owner 38 ND LLC: The board considered a request to replace deteriorated aluminum replacement windows on the 1893 building with black, four-over-one energy-efficient windows intended to match nearby historic and recent projects. Mr. Neville explained the work is part of a larger state-approved DRI grant project and that the window replacement is the necessary first step before stucco, roofing, and rear-yard improvements. Board members found the existing conditions “alarming” and supported the window replacement. The board noted that the stucco repair/grinding work on the second and third floors is not covered by this approval; the applicant must submit an amended or new application with an updated narrative and color sample for staff-level approval. - 41 North Division Street – Applicant Joseph Thompson / Owner North Division-Main LLC: The architect returned to renew a lapsed COA and adopt a reduced scope required by SHPO/NPS as part of a Part II Historic Tax Credit review. The project is a mixed-use adaptive reuse: ground-floor commercial, upper-floor residential, and rooftop amenities. The Peekskill library was recently approved to relocate into the ground floor, eliminating the need for two new Main Street entrances. The building has been vacant for close to 15 years, and the ground floor alone is over 7,000 square feet. Bids for the project came in 30 to 50 percent above initial budget, making the tax credits a critical part of the capital stack. Mr. Thompson explained that SHPO/NPS prohibited third-floor window enlargement, parapet reductions, and removal of original brick for vertical banding, while preserving masonry restoration, second-floor egress window enlargements, and front-entry restoration/recladding. The board discussed the benefit of a committed ground-floor tenant and the project’s aggressive energy retrofit, including all-electric conversion, roof insulation, rooftop photovoltaics, high-efficiency HVAC, and proposed triple-pane composite windows with the same exterior appearance as the previously approved aluminum-clad wood windows. Key Outcomes - Approved the September 24, 2026 minutes, with one abstention. - Approved the COA for 38 North Division Street windows as presented by voice vote, with no opposition noted. Stucco repair was not included and will require a separate or amended application and staff review of color. - Approved a revised COA for 41 North Division Street incorporating the SHPO/NPS tax-credit changes and the triple-pane window substitution, by voice vote with no opposition noted. - Agenda item 2 (13 South Division Street – Fern Tree) was not heard; the board held over and adjourned to the next meeting on December 3.

The Peekskill Common Council convened on October 26, 2026, at 1:45 PM. Mayor Vivian McKenzie presided over a brief agenda that featured two Italian American Heritage Month proclamations, followed by a celebration break and an announced executive session to discuss personnel matters. No votes, public comments, or consent calendar items were taken. Proclamations & Recognitions - Homestyle Bakery Family (Italian American Heritage Month Honoree): Mayor McKenzie read a proclamation honoring the Homestyle Bakery family—Rosenka, Laura Timmins, Teresa Timmons, and Gianna Deegan—for over 40 years of operation on Water Street. The proclamation highlighted the bakery’s dedication to traditional Italian baking, community generosity (donating treats to local charities), and national recognition (commissions from the New York Yankees, including a cake for Derek Jeter’s retirement). A family member expressed gratitude and noted the bakery’s deep connection to Peekskill. - Dominic Volpe Jr. (Italian American Heritage Month Honoree): A second proclamation recognized Dominic Volpe Jr., owner of Dominic’s Cleaners and Tailors on DePew Street, for decades of civic leadership and service. The proclamation cited his free dry cleaning and clothing for those in need (via Peekskill Youth Bureau), providing professional attire to residents of the Jan Peekskill Homeless Shelter, organizing winter coat drives for veterans (including at FDR VA Medical Center), receiving a citation from the Military Order of the Purple Heart, serving as chairman of the Pride in Cortland Committee, and earning Cortland’s Best Business Award in 2013. After the reading, Dominic Volpe Jr. shared a story about his father’s successful negotiation to acquire the business building with the help of Judge Bill Merton and reflected on over 56 years of family operation in Peekskill. Break & Executive Session - Following the recognitions, the Council took a break to celebrate with the honorees downstairs. The meeting was scheduled to reconvene for a Committee of the Whole meeting and an executive session to discuss the medical, financial, credit, or employment history of a particular person(s) or corporation, and matters leading to appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal, or removal. The transcript ends during the break, so no further discussion or votes were recorded. Key Outcomes - No formal votes, resolutions, or decisions were made during this portion of the meeting. The proclamations were ceremonial, and the executive session was announced but not held in the open session covered by the transcript.

The Peekskill Common Council held a work session/committee-of-the-whole followed by a regular meeting on Monday, October 26, 2026, in the Common Council Chamber. The council unanimously adopted 18 resolutions, approved Local Law No. 5 of 2026 overriding the New York State tax cap, and closed public hearings on the tax cap override and the proposed 2027 city budget. The agenda also listed an Italian American Heritage Recognition item, but the transcribed portion of the meeting does not include discussion of that item. Work Session / Committee of the Whole - Police Chief Renwick requested council permission to solicit competitive bids for the next phase of the police department locker room renovation: electrical work at 2 Nelson Avenue. Council members expressed support, and the request later became Resolution J-12. - The City Attorney recommended canceling the continued public hearing on proposed amendments to Chapter 416 (bikes and parks) because the city is still investigating the status of the waterfront bike path and bicycle access to DePew Park. Council agreed; discussion is expected to resume on November 2, 2026, with a future hearing to be rescheduled. - City Manager discussed a letter of support for CEEP/Civic Roots Westchester New York Community Trust application, a NY BRICKS grant application of up to $15 million for the old library/neighborhood center/bathrooms, a professional services agreement with Joseph Thompson Architect, and acceptance of a $50,000 Empire State Development incentive for the Community Hub. In response to a council question, the City Manager said the BRICKS grant would be very competitive but the city's scoring was strong; matching funds, if needed, would be factored into the following year's budget. - Liaison reports included Parks Advisory Board concerns about litter and ongoing bikes-in-parks analysis, holiday park events, and interest in having Sloyd students repair damaged wooden park items; Youth Bureau news of a co-drive and Oct. 30 Girl Scouts Halloween event; a BID board meeting scheduled for Nov. 4; and library board updates including a slight circulation drop, Feb. 3 library advocacy day, reduced staff computers from 34 to 30, and preparations for the new 41 North Division space. Public Comments & Testimony - For public comments on agenda items, no one spoke in person or online; two emailed comments were entered into the record. - During Citizens Desiring to Be Heard, one resident expressed concern that pedestrians do not have the right of way in Peekskill, described a recent near-miss at Washington and Hudson, questioned the safety of right turns on red there, and opposed allowing bikes in parks due to concerns for pedestrians and quiet enjoyment of DePew Park. Officials responded that the Chapter 416 matter will be discussed at the Nov. 2 committee-of-the-whole workshop, a report is planned for Nov. 9, and a public hearing would likely occur on the second Monday in December; residents may also email comments or submit letters to the City Clerk. Regular Meeting Proceedings and Special Recognition - The pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence were held. Roll call showed all council members and the Mayor present. - The council dispensed with the reading of the minutes of October 13, 2026, and accepted them as written. - Police Chief presented a special recognition: Sergeant Evan Patterson was promoted to Lieutenant. Patterson began with NYPD, later served the Town of Newburgh Police Department, joined Peekskill in 2015, and had served as Emergency Response Team commander for more than three years. He will continue in that role and will also command the Patrol Division. He took the oath of office with family present. Department Head and City Manager Reports - Quality-of-life enforcement: store owner litter-related violations rose from 6 to 16; overgrowth violations fell from 6 to 3; overcrowding tickets were zero; fire violations fell from 3 to 0; and nuisance violations rose from 9 to 12. - Police enforcement over the previous two weeks included 9 quality-of-life arrests, 6 DWI arrests, 13 other traffic arrests, 11 warrant arrests, 226 traffic summonses, and 1,255 parking tickets. At Maple and Hudson, targeted enforcement produced 64 details, 62 stops, and 70 summonses. A stabbing assault on Oct. 17 led to an arrest on Oct. 19. - DPW is winterizing buildings, procuring downtown holiday lighting, and planning November paving. Under the Momentum Fund, a contract was awarded for structural repairs to James Street and Nelson Avenue garages; DRI construction work includes new crosswalks, and the outside reopening date for Division and Central is Friday, Nov. 6, barring unforeseen issues. - The Peekskill Plan community visioning survey remains open through early November. The lower South Street sewer line design is 90% complete for the $11.5 million project; Hollow Brook Dam work is on hold for winter; 15 hydrants have been replaced; and the riverfront pump station project is at 90% design. Public Hearings - Public Hearing No. 2: Proposed local law to override the NYS tax cap for the 2027 budget. Comptroller Toni Tracy presented the budget at a glance: the 2027 general fund total is $59,551,965, a 3.75% increase over 2026, with a 3.5% tax rate increase and a 3.92% tax levy increase. For a single-family home assessed at $9,732, that is about $107.68 per year, or $8.97 per month. Pension, health insurance, and benefit costs increased by $2.5 million; New York State retirement alone rose 20%; and police/fire retirement is projected at about $5 million, or 8.6% of the general fund, up from 5.8% ten years ago and up 108% since 2020. Tracy noted that 45% of New York cities, 35.5% of villages, and 28.6% of towns are planning tax cap overrides. Scenarios showed that not using $600,000 of restricted firehouse fund balance would raise the levy increase to 6.82%, with a 6.38% rate increase and a $16.37 monthly impact; losing $380,000 due to the prior transfer tax budgeting method would raise the levy increase to 8.63%, with an 8.19% rate increase and a $21 monthly impact. The city is also pursuing PILOT agreements, receiving $3.8 million from a new PILOT in 2026. One emailed comment was entered; no one spoke in the chamber. The hearing was closed. - Public Hearing No. 3: The 2027 proposed budget. Tracy summarized the same general fund total of $59,551,965, 3.5% tax increase, 3.92% levy increase, and $107.68 annual impact for the average assessed home. One emailed comment was entered; no one spoke in the chamber. The hearing was closed. Resolutions Adopted All resolutions passed unanimously. - J-1: Cancelled the continued Oct. 26 public hearing on Chapter 416 (bikes and parks). - J-2: Authorized free four-hour holiday parking in downtown garages from Nov. 27, 2026 through Jan. 2, 2027. - J-3: Authorized Turkey Trot street closures on Nov. 21, 2026, 8:00-9:30 a.m., on Park Street, North Broad Street, Crompond Road, and South Division Street. - J-4: Authorized a professional services agreement with Joseph Thompson Architect for an economic development plan for the Peekskill Hub and reuse of the Neighborhood Center at 4 Nelson Avenue. - J-5: Declared certain Fire Department equipment surplus and authorized auction. - J-6: Authorized Trunk or Treat street closure on Broad Street from Park Street to Sparrow Lane on Oct. 30, 2026, 5:30-8:30 p.m. - J-7: Accepted an Assistance to Firefighters grant of approximately $206,767.27 for new self-contained breathing apparatus. - J-8: Authorized sale of the surplus 1996 Pierce Engine to Westchester County for $15,000. - J-9: Authorized advertising bids for downtown intersection improvements under the Mid-Hudson Momentum Fund Award. - J-10: Adopted the 2027 consolidated fee schedule. - J-11: Established a handicapped parking space at 1778 Lincoln Terrace. - J-12: Authorized soliciting bids for police locker room electrical work at 2 Nelson Avenue. - J-13: Authorized submission of a New York BRICKS program grant application. - J-14: Authorized the City Manager to sign a letter of support for CEEP's New York Community Trust application, with no financial obligation to the city. - J-15: Appointed Beth Laschever (listed in the agenda; the resolution text read Beth Lechevre) to the Conservation Advisory Council. - J-16: Established a no-parking restriction on the southeast side of Montrose Avenue (the agenda spelled it Montross Avenue), 50 feet from its intersection with Maple Avenue. - J-17: Authorized an agreement with Sloyd for use of city property at 828 Main Street for youth woodworking, boat building, and community maker space. - J-18: Authorized acceptance of an Empire State Development incentive proposal for a comprehensive development plan to design the adaptive reuse of the vacated Field Library space at 4 Nelson Avenue. Key Outcomes - The 2027 budget hearings were closed, and Local Law No. 5 of 2026 was adopted to override the NYS tax cap for the 2027 budget. - All 18 resolutions on the agenda were adopted unanimously. - The Chapter 416 bikes-and-parks amendment remains under investigation; the council will discuss it on Nov. 2, 2026, with a future public hearing expected in December. - The council recognized Lt. Evan Patterson's promotion and accepted the October 13, 2026 minutes. - The council moved into executive session after the public meeting for discussion of personnel matters.

The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) convened on October 22, 2026, for a meeting focused on a single substantive agenda item: the re-approval of an area variance for the mixed-use adaptive reuse project at 41 North Division Street. The board heard a presentation from the applicant’s representative, opened and closed a public hearing with no public comment, conducted a criteria analysis, and unanimously approved the variance. The board also approved the September 2026 meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public attended or offered testimony during the public hearing for the 41 North Division Street variance. Discussion Items - Re-Approval of Area Variance for 41 North Division Street: Joseph G. Thompson, representing North Division-Main LLC, presented the request to re-approve an area variance originally granted in summer 2024. The variance seeks relief from the minimum residential dwelling unit floor area requirement (Section 575-33 B (10) (a) [2]) to facilitate the adaptive reuse of an existing structure. The proposed development includes 22 upper-floor dwelling units with ground floor and basement commercial space. - Project Timeline: Thompson indicated the project required additional time for funding procurement and is expected to begin construction by the end of 2026 or early 2027. - Variance Criteria Analysis: Board members evaluated the request against the five statutory factors under General City Law § 81-b: 1. Detriment to Neighborhood: No detriment anticipated; the project is expected to bring positive benefits to the downtown area by introducing a residential population to a currently underutilized building. 2. Alternatives: While combining units could meet the 600-square-foot minimum, it would compromise the historic window pattern and reduce the total unit count necessary for financial feasibility. 3. Substantiality of Variance: The requested 15.3% area differential (average of 500 square feet for 12 units versus the 600-square-foot minimum) was not deemed substantial. The board recognized that 279 square feet of shared amenity space (storage, rooftop terrace, community room, gym, laundry, bike storage, and a business center) offsets the reduced in-unit square footage. 4. Physical Environment: The project is anticipated to have a beneficial effect on the physical environment of the neighborhood. 5. Self-Created Difficulty: The constraints are inherent to the fixed structure of the historic building and were therefore not determined to be self-created. - SEQRA Determination: The project was confirmed as a Type II action under SEQRA, requiring no further environmental review. - Agenda Correction: A typographical error in the agenda regarding the property’s Section-Block-Lot designation was noted and corrected on the record. - Transcript Discrepancy: The agenda lists only the 41 North Division Street variance. However, the transcript begins with a reference to the application being “for the library,” and at the meeting’s conclusion, board members confirmed that a separate public hearing concerning a library matter had been properly closed. Key Outcomes - Variance Re-Approved: The board unanimously approved the motion to re-approve the area variance for the 41 North Division Street project. - September 2026 Minutes Approved: The board voted to approve the meeting minutes from September 17, 2026. - Other Minutes Deferred: The approval of meeting minutes from October 2025, February 2026, March 2026, and August 2026 was tabled due to the absence of sufficient board members available to review them.

This work session of the Peekskill Common Council covered a wide range of topics including urban forestry, a community hub proposal, the 2027 budget, fire department equipment grants and sales, downtown intersection improvements, parking regulations, holiday promotions, a BRICS grant application for community center funding, and a discussion on updating Chapter 416 regarding bicycles and e-bikes in city parks. No formal votes were taken; most items are expected to return as resolutions at a future meeting. Urban Forestry Management Plan - Sam from Planning reported that tree planting is underway. The original plan of 68 trees has been increased to 87 trees (81 planted by DPW, rest as part of Brown Plaza renovations), with 35 trees already planted. Cost per tree is $120, achieved through DPW labor and partnerships (New York Power Authority Tree Power program and local distributor). Trees are focused on areas with highest urban heat island effects. - Sarah Lilly from Eocene Environmental presented the draft Urban Forestry Management Plan, 100% grant-funded. Inventory found 2,400 trees in public spaces, 92 stumps, and identified 368 planting sites. Key findings: over a quarter of trees are maples (low diversity), deferred maintenance exists, and 30% of trees are in narrow tree lawns (<4 ft wide). Community survey showed 64% would plant in their yard if incentivized. - Major recommendations: appoint a single person in charge of trees, adopt a 5-year proactive maintenance cycle (inspecting 450 trees/year), and plan for annual tree planting. City currently has fewer employees and lower budget for trees compared to peer cities. - Council members expressed support and asked about website updates, potential for expanding tree lawns, and future planting in areas like Washington Street (where 12 oaks will be planted this fall). Community Hub & Sloyd Woodworking Proposal - City Manager Matt Rudikoff introduced the concept of a community hub campus (neighborhood center, library, youth bureau, Kiley Center) and noted a NY BRICS grant opportunity. He then turned to a proposal from Sloyd Woodworking and the boat building group. - Ted Haber presented the proposal to relocate maintenance equipment from the firehouse bay to a shed behind the youth bureau, freeing the firehouse bay for a free woodworking program using hand tools. The program currently serves 24 students/week (3 classes of 8) with a waiting list. They aim to expand to daily after-school programs, senior classes, workforce development, and community maker space. The group will fund the shed and renovation, seeking a long-term public-private partnership with the city for space. - Council members strongly supported the program, noting its benefits for youth character development, skill-building, and community engagement. Questions addressed sustainability (training new instructors), potential partnerships (e.g., with local theater for set building), and serving students with autism. - Key outcome: Council directed staff to bring back a resolution authorizing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the group to formalize the partnership. Budget Discussion - Finance Director Tony presented updates: the 2027 fee schedule has been corrected (fingerprint fee changed from $280 to $28) and marina fees adjusted. No additional changes were requested. The 2027 Common Council budget was reviewed; no changes were proposed. Both items will be brought back next week for public hearing and adoption. Fire Department Items - Lieutenant Sheridan presented four items: - Surplus Equipment: Declaring non-compliant SCBA masks/bottles, tailgate from Chevy 2500, two Honda generators, and expired PPE as surplus for auction. - Trunk or Treat Street Closure: Request to close one lane of Broad Street in front of fire headquarters on event day (date not specified) from 5:30–8:30 PM for safety, as event has outgrown parking lot. - FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant: Awarded $206,767.27 for new SCBA equipment, requiring a 10% city match ($20,676.23), already budgeted for 2027. - Sale of Fire Engine 132: Westchester County has agreed to purchase the old engine for use as training apparatus; listing company agreed to terminate earlier contract. - All items were supported by council; resolutions will be prepared for next week. Downtown Intersection Improvements (Momentum Grant) - Peter Erwin from Planning presented the engineer's cost estimate of $1,439,333 for pedestrian safety and vehicle efficiency improvements at Main Street intersections with Nelson Avenue, Division Street, and Bank Street. The project will be bid with a base bid (Bank Street) and an alternate (Nelson Avenue). An additional $50,000 is recommended for a contract amendment with design engineers CHA, Inc., and $10,000 for signage/communications. The project is 50% reimbursable through the Mid-Hudson Momentum Fund. Council authorized release of bidding documents; award will come back after pricing. Police Parking Regulations - Lieutenant Dumontdo presented two items: - No Parking at Montrose and Maple Avenue: To improve sight lines and safety at the intersection. - Handicapped Parking Space at 1778 Lincoln Terrace: Designated space for a resident with disability, based on chief's review and medical documentation. - Council approved both; resolutions to be prepared. Holiday Parking and Turkey Trot - City Clerk presented requests: - Free Holiday Parking: BID requests free 4-hour parking in Nelson and James garages from November 27, 2026 to January 2, 2027. Council expressed support, but asked about enforcement of time limits. Staff will explore license plate reader technology for future, but may not be ready this year. - Turkey Trot Street Closure: CHOP's annual Turkey Trot on November 21, 8:00–9:30 AM, with turkey distribution later. The nonprofit requested waiver of the $545 permit fee. Council noted they have not waived fees before and are working to ensure consistent fee collection; no decision made, will be discussed further. NY BRICS Grant Application for Community Center - City Manager Rudikoff presented plans to apply for the NY BRICS grant (up to $15 million statewide) for community center renovations, targeting $6 million with a 20% city match ($1.2 million). The application will use the neighborhood center address (4 Nelson Ave). Consultant Joe Thompson will prepare the application by December 7 deadline. Council authorized submission. Chapter 416 - Bicycles and E-Bikes in Parks - Discussion on whether to allow bicycles and e-bikes in parks. Current law (from 1973) prohibits bicycles on any walk or footpath. Council discussed: - Desire to allow regular bicycles and Class 1 e-bikes on waterfront and possibly on paved paths in DePew Park, but not Class 2/3 e-bikes. - Need to clarify children's tricycles and push bikes. - Concerns about narrow trails in DePew Park; request for history of past discussions and resolutions (from 2010 era). - Signage coordination needed. - Decision: Cancel the public hearing scheduled for October 26, and staff will bring back more information on November 2, including past resolutions and funding requirements for trails. Liaison Reports & Other Business - Councilwoman Chang reported on Paramount Theater event (play "Intent") and Peekskill Museum exhibit "Treason of the Blackest Die". - Deputy Mayor reported on senior center: tag sale success, new kitchen appliances, Halloween party, bathroom maintenance, community garden fence, farmers market voucher cuts (only 6 vouchers this year, down from 400). - Councilman DeGruzio reported on CAC events (mushroom walk, monarch pledge, tree planting) and youth bureau (domestic violence awareness campaign, upcoming coat drive Oct 25, father factor spooky night Oct 23, lights on after school Oct 22). - City Manager mentioned a future memo on supporting a grant submission by CEP (Center for Environmental and Economic Partnership) and reminded about flag disposal box at City Hall. - The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session for personnel matters. Key Outcomes - Directed staff to prepare resolutions for: surplus equipment, trunk or treat street closure, FEMA grant acceptance, fire engine sale, no parking zone, handicapped space, free holiday parking, Turkey Trot street closure, and BRICS application submission. - Directed staff to bring back an MOA resolution for Sloyd Woodworking partnership. - Canceled October 26 public hearing on Chapter 416; staff to provide additional information on November 2. - No changes to 2027 budget or fee schedule; both to proceed to public hearing next week. - Authorized release of bidding documents for downtown intersection improvements.

The Peekskill Planning Commission convened on October 15, 2026, at 7:45 PM. The agenda included a referral to the Zoning Board of Appeals for 41 North Division Street, a continued public hearing for a single-family home at 527 Union Avenue, extensive discussion on the 24-unit cluster development at 1130 Frost Lane, approval of the Field Library relocation to 41 North Division Street, and a recommendation to the Common Council regarding the proposed 158-unit mixed-use affordable housing development at 418 North Division Street. The meeting began with an announcement that the applicant for the floating solar project at 1000 Lindbergh Place had withdrawn the application. Consent Calendar - ZBA Referral (41 N Division Street): The commission voted unanimously to refer area variances related to minimum residential dwelling unit floor area for the adaptive reuse of the Steinbeck building to the Zoning Board of Appeals. - 140 Franklin Street: A continued public hearing for a one-story addition was adjourned to November 10, 2026, to allow additional time for engineering review. The motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Fitzpatrick (531 Union Avenue, neighbor): Expressed strong opposition to the 527 Union Avenue project, arguing that the applicant had not submitted consistent or accurate plans and that the commission should not approve the project without a fully coordinated set of drawings. - Renee Basilette and Harren Cortiz (Frost Lane/Pataki Farm neighborhood): Raised significant concerns regarding the 1130 Frost Lane project, including the risk of increased stormwater runoff and downstream flooding, the potential for property damage from blasting and construction, and existing water pressure issues in the area. Discussion Items - 527 Union Avenue (Single-Family Home): The applicant returned to address discrepancies between renderings and line drawings. The board discussed conditions requiring the rendering to be affixed to the cover sheet of the approved plans and for the landscaping plan to include a variety of native species rather than uniform rows of arborvitae. The public hearing was closed, and final site plan approval was granted with those conditions. - 1130 Frost Lane (Peekskill Views, 24-unit Cluster): The applicant provided updates on construction staging, stormwater management, and the conservation parcel. The architect defended the decision to use an all-white color palette for all 11 buildings, rejecting commission requests for color variation to help the units blend with the surrounding forest and single-family neighborhood. The commission expressed skepticism over traffic study assumptions and continued the public hearing to December to allow the applicant to provide additional studies and construction sequencing details. The matter of tax arrears on the property was raised, and the attorney clarified that the current owner has entered into a payment agreement with the city, noting that the commission cannot withhold approval based on this issue. - 41 North Division Street (Field Library Relocation): The commission held a public hearing for the library's change of use. The applicant requested an increase in parking waivers from 8 to 12 spaces. With no public comment, the hearing was closed. The commission granted final site plan approval and the parking waiver, subject to conditions in the staff report. - 418 North Division Street (158-Unit Affordable Housing): The commission reviewed the application for a recommendation to the Common Council. The traffic engineer presented a study concluding the development would have minimal impact on intersection levels of service, but commissioners questioned the assumptions, particularly regarding the daycare drop-off and the use of narrow streets like Constant and Harrison Avenues. A major portion of the discussion focused on the building's mass. Several commissioners, particularly Greg (member), argued that the six-story building was too large and oppressive for the transitional neighborhood, especially on Constant Avenue. The applicant emphasized that the project's viability relies entirely on its workforce housing model and the affordable housing tax credits, and that the proposed arts center and daycare would provide community benefits. The commission requested massing studies and photo-montages comparing the proposed building to existing structures. No recommendation was made; the discussion was tabled to a future meeting. Key Outcomes - Vote 1 (41 N Division ZBA Referral): Unanimously approved. - Vote 2 (140 Franklin St Adjournment): Unanimously approved to November 10, 2026. - Vote 3 (527 Union Ave Final Site Plan): Final site plan approval granted unanimously, with conditions requiring rendering alignment and a varied landscape plan to the satisfaction of the Director of Planning. - Vote 4 (Field Library Final Site Plan): Final site plan approval and a 12-space parking waiver granted unanimously. - Item 1130 Frost Lane: Public hearing continued to the December 2026 meeting. - Item 418 North Division Street: No recommendation was delivered to the Common Council. The commission requested additional visual and massing analyses from the applicant. Discussion continued. - The August 2026 meeting minutes were approved.

On October 14, 2026, the Peekskill Common Council held a Special Work Session Budget Meeting to discuss the fee schedule, third-quarter budget review, proposed budget adjustments, and a draft presentation for the upcoming public hearing. City Manager Matt, Comptroller Tony Tracy, and council members reviewed financial details, with the goal of presenting a final budget for adoption on November 9, 2026. Discussion Items - Fee Schedule Review: Tony Tracy presented a department-by-department fee schedule with a 3% across-the-board increase, plus rounding. Two new fees were proposed: a mobile office fee for temporary street-side businesses and a two-sided military banner fee. Council members suggested delaying the two-sided banner fee until the option is publicized; Tony agreed to remove it. Councilman also requested higher non-resident marina fees and corrected a typo (fingerprinting fee from $280 to $28). Tracy will update and email the corrected schedule. - Third Quarter Budget to Actual Review: Tracy presented projections showing a net loss of approximately $160,000. Revenues are projected at $62,978,124 and expenditures at $59,198,856. After removing one-time items (impact fee of $3.9 million and bond/insurance settlement), a revenue shortfall of about $950,000 was identified, offset by $790,000 in projected under-expenditures. Key shortfalls include parking meters ($178,000) due to delayed kiosk installation, refuse removal ($938,000) from additional pickups, and police/fire pension increases. Under-expenditures include DPW vacancies, contingency ($550,000), and health insurance savings ($880,000). Council discussed the fund balance (projected at $6.1 million) and noted that if needed, the $500,000 fund balance appropriation would cover the shortfall. - Proposed Budget Adjustments: Tracy outlined council changes with no net budget effect: moving stipends from the city clerk's budget to appropriate departments; adding $35,000 to the youth bureau part-time line and $7,144 for an abstinence program, offset by a $35,000 grant revenue increase; and adding $550,000 for DePew Park improvements, offset by fund balance from impact fees. Council approved these adjustments. - Draft Presentation for October 26 Public Hearing: The proposed 2027 budget totals $58,966,965, with a levy increase of 3.92% and tax rate increase of 3.5% (about $107.68 annually on an average assessed home of $9,732). The city faces $2.5 million in additional costs from pensions, retiree health care, and legacy liabilities. Personnel costs are 75.7% of the budget; debt service is 7.7%. The city maintains $500,000 in contingency and $6.6 million in liability reserves (19% of total debt). Comparisons with similar New York cities showed Peekskill's tax rate increase (3.5% in 2026, 3.92% in 2027) was well below many peers, with a lower levy per person ($800 vs. $1,181 in Glen Cove). Highlights include retaining grant-funded employees, parking improvements (new kiosks and app), and using transfer tax reserves to reduce debt. Long-term debt declined from $62 million (2014) to $34 million (2026). Council members expressed strong support for the budget's fiscal responsibility and transparency. Key Outcomes - The fee schedule will be revised to remove the two-sided military banner fee, adjust non-resident marina fees, and correct the fingerprinting fee typo; the updated schedule will be emailed to council. - Council approved the budget adjustments with no net effect, authorizing Tracy to prepare the final version for the October 26 public hearing. - The proposed budget will be presented at the October 26, 2026 public hearing, with a vote on adoption scheduled for November 9, 2026. - Council members praised the budget's conservative approach and comparison data, noting it reflects thoughtful planning for residents and businesses.

The Common Council held a combined work session and regular meeting on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Common Council Chamber. The work session featured budget presentations from the Police Department and the City Clerk’s Office, followed by the council meeting which included a Domestic Violence Awareness Month proclamation, unanimous approval of 11 resolutions, department head reports, and public comments addressing traffic safety at the intersection of Maple and Hudson. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session. Domestic Violence Awareness Month Recognition - The Council recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and issued a proclamation in memory of Conchetta Cheddar Morton, a 27‑year‑old Peekskill native who died in September 2023 as a result of intimate partner violence. Assemblywoman Dana Levenberg spoke about the pervasiveness of domestic violence and the importance of resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Members of Ms. Morton’s family accepted the proclamation and urged the community to recognize warning signs and support survivors. Consent Calendar – Resolutions and Local Law All resolutions and the local law were approved unanimously: - Local Law 4 of 2026 – Amends City Code Chapter 182 (Bicycles and In‑line Skates). - Resolution J1 – Appoints Timothy Warn to the Historic and Landmarks Preservation Board. - Resolution J2 – Authorizes the 2027 MTA Parking Management Plan. - Resolution J3 – Authorizes use of real property transfer tax funds for general fund purposes. - Resolution J4 – Schedules a public hearing to override the NYS tax cap for the 2027 budget. - Resolution J5 – Schedules a public hearing on the 2027 budget for October 26, 2026. - Resolution J6 – Determines the Depew Park Improvement Project is exempt from SEQRA (Type II action). - Resolution J7 – Accepts a grant of up to $675,000 from NYS Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation for Depew Park improvements. - Resolution J8 – Authorizes solicitation of construction bids for Depew Park improvements. - Resolution J9 – Authorizes an affordable housing consultant contract with Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress. - Resolution J10 – Awards the police locker room plumbing contract to Castle Plumbing at a cost of $25,875. - Resolution J11 – Authorizes solicitation of bids for locker room framing work (separate bid due to partial funding). Public Comments & Testimony - Chuck Grimmett (300 Montrose Ave.) described the intersection of Maple and Hudson as extremely dangerous, with drivers routinely running stop signs. He requested immediate traffic calming measures such as speed bumps or a traffic light, noting that a child was recently struck there. - Jen Zawacki (608 Nelson Ave.) supported the call for expedited pedestrian safety improvements and asked about short‑term measures (e.g., flashing stop signs, speed humps) while a traffic study is conducted. - Farah and Lauren (parents of the 14‑year‑old victim, Destiny Miller) expressed gratitude for the city’s response but stressed the ongoing trauma and the need for effective, visible changes. The child’s backpack absorbed most of the impact, and she remains anxious walking that route. - Evan mentioned the long‑awaited opening of Kurzall’s Coffee on Division Street and asked the city to expedite its opening. Discussion Items Police Department Budget Presentation (Chief Renwick) - The proposed 2027 budget is $11.958 million, a $10,602 increase (0.09%) over the 2026 adopted budget, while maintaining current staffing and adding a captain position. - Current staffing: 54 sworn officers (6 vacancies), 9 civilian staff (2 vacancies: dispatcher and records management). Goal is to fill vacancies and eventually reach 63 sworn officers. - Crime statistics: IBR (Index‑Based Reporting) offenses from January through August dropped 24.5% from 2025 to 2026, attributed in part to increased downtown walking patrols (expanded from 2 to 4 officers on weekends in 2025). - Use of force incidents decreased 20.4% (from 54 to 43 year‑to‑date), linked to new reality‑based training. - Overtime: Proposed to break out predictable overtime lines (e.g., walking post overtime from Memorial Day to Halloween, weekend arraignment transports) for better tracking. - Captain position rationale: Provide an additional management level to handle internal affairs, accreditation, FOIL/discovery tracking, and command continuity. The position is funded within the proposed budget through existing vacancy savings. - Grant‑funded projects: Pending $250,000 LE‑TECH grant for radio system improvements. - Animal control: Officer ACL Whisker has issued 2,174 parking tickets year‑to‑date, generating $165,905 in assessed fees ($108,048 collected). Requested increase in SPCA contract from $10,000 to $15,000. City Clerk’s Office Budget Presentation (Cassandra) - The clerk’s office (affectionately called the “Google of Peekskill”) is requesting a minimal budget increase to continue operations. Highlights: - Personnel: Deputy clerk Jeannette Moore and permit clerk Ruth Urgelis (the “dynamic duo”). - Operations: Records, FOIL requests, vital statistics, parking permits, elections coordination. - Accomplishments (2026): Renewals made predictable; Nelson Garage Level C reconciliation; improved parking; security enhancements; online forms; website updates. - Future goals: Bi‑annual Nelson Garage inspections; credit card/tap‑tap‑payment; reduce paper packets; continuing election coordination; continue FOIL tracking system research. - Budget adjustments recommended: Move clerk stipend to elections category (grant‑funded); add $35,000 part‑time salary (add $35,000 grant revenue, and increase $550,000 in transfers to capital (Depewark grant). Key Outcomes - Police budget will proceed as proposed with council expressing unanimous support for the police and clerk presentations. The council lauded the clarity and transparency of the police budget. - Traffic Safety at Maple/Hudson: Immediate actions include increased enforcement (drones undercover), evaluation of no‑parking restrictions at Montrose & Maple, and expedited traffic engineering study. Public hearings for 2027 budget and tax cap override scheduled for October 26, 2026. - License Plate Reader (LPR) Information: Chief Renwick reported that, per Westchester County, no federal agencies have direct access to the current LPR system for civil immigration enforcement. Limited access exists only for criminal task‑force personnel assigned to the Real Time Crime Center. Peekskill policy prohibits use for immigration enforcement. - Executive Session: The council voted to enter executive session to discuss personnel matters.