Public Meetings - Peekskill, New York

The Peekskill Common Council met in a work session at 6:30 p.m. on November 24, 2025, and then convened the regular Common Council meeting at about 7 p.m. No executive session was held. Police Chief DeLuski served as acting city manager in place of Matt Alexander. Mayor McKenzie presided; Councilmembers Fassett, Scott, Douglas, Fernandez, Deputy Mayor Riley, and Councilwoman Talbot (remote under City Code Chapter 133) participated. The council adopted the 2026 city budget, overrode the state tax cap, passed parking and battery-storage local laws, approved routine resolutions, and heard extensive public comment on cannabis siting and immigration/ICE policy. Work Session: Youth Bureau Grant and Liaison Reports - Youth Bureau Director Tuesday McDonald requested approval to apply for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) youth employment services grant. The grant had funded a youth employment worker from 2019 until June 2025, serving out-of-school youth ages 16-24 with GED support, resume help, soft skills, a pre-work boot camp, and local job placements. - Councilman Scott reported on a Nov. 18 civic and advocacy session with young people at the Youth Bureau. - Councilman Douglas summarized the Conservation Advisory Council's Nov. 20 meeting: CAC membership recruitment, a CAC member attending council meetings in January, the Tree Board's first meeting in January, the Mayor's Monarch Pledge, Lake Mitchell water-quality sampling, and Teachers Park discussion. - Councilman Fassett thanked organizers of the Thanksgiving turkey trot, which had 300-plus registered participants; he reminded residents the holiday tree lighting is Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. and the BID board meets Dec. 2. - Deputy Mayor Riley reported on the library board: three book clubs, the library is under budget, Library Advocacy Day in Albany is Feb. 3, 2026, and strategic-planning surveys are underway. She also praised the community pre-Thanksgiving dinner at the Red Door. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident questioned the repeated NYS tax-cap override and said legal-services spending appeared to grow from about $300,000 to $615,000/$665,000 in the proposed 2026 budget; he argued in-house counsel would cost less. Chief DeLuski said he could not provide budget detail without the budget book and offered an appointment with the city manager. - A resident questioned voting on the budget without City Manager Alexander present and asked about $11,000 emergency masonry at the Paramount Theater, DRI grant funds, and board members' theater-management experience. Staff responded that the DRI project is still in process and does not include the leak/masonry issue; the resident called for an internal audit. - Rev. Phillip Styles asked whether the Youth Bureau senior office assistant position would be restored and the front steps repaired, saying he had entered through the side/back for seven and a half years. Chief DeLuski responded that a part-time office assistant is shared between two departments, the youth employment worker was grant-funded and ended with the grant, and a grant is being pursued for the building and steps. - Delvin Heath read a letter from former Black Diamond Johnny Brown supporting increased Youth Bureau funding. Addison Cuevas, a Black Diamonds member, said the Youth Bureau front entrance has been unusable for almost eight years and asked where repair funds are; the mayor said repairs are part of a broader costly building plan being assembled under a grant. - John Hodgins opposed the payment-in-lieu-of-parking plan at the public hearing, calling it a 'giveaway to developers' and citing winter parking limits. Planning Director Carol Samol responded that the program would produce revenue for infill housing, fund garage improvements, and could be monitored and limited. Two written emails were received. - For 710 Washington Street, the planning director reported written-only comments, petitions, and a CPL engineering review; CPL concluded the odor system should work if designed, installed, operated, and maintained properly, and recommended a final mechanical design review before a building permit plus VOC sensors with computer monitoring. Councilman Fernandez objected that a written-only comment period was unfair to residents who cannot write; City Attorney Eric Gordon defended the process as legal and consistent with due process. The hearing was closed. - Later public speakers opposed the cannabis microbusiness: Regina Bronz said nearby businesses were unaware it was a manufacturing use and cited odor-mitigation failures elsewhere; a resident noted Grand Cannabis's application said odor is 'expected to remain within confines' and 'to the extent possible,' and demanded a guarantee and clear consequences if odors escape; Melissa Magnus Kennedy asked for close scrutiny because the site is near Franklin Park and many homes. The mayor said the legal department would review claims of application misrepresentation; Samol said she had visited a facility in the Bronx and found no odor. - The battery-storage moratorium hearing had no public comments. - Multiple residents (Evan Rosen, Jackie, Alex Jenkins, Jim Lillo, and others) asked the city to create or make visible a local immigration/ICE policy. They argued the Westchester County Immigrant Protection Act does not apply to city police and cited other municipalities that passed local laws. Jim Lillo said Halloween trick-or-treating at his house fell from 400 in 2024 to about half this year because of immigrant families' fear of ICE. Chief DeLuski said the police department follows state/federal/local law and has updated rules and regulations; he offered to share the policy, said it would survive his retirement, and said violations go through department chain-of-command. Councilman Fernandez and the mayor said they are open to discussing making the policy more visible or codifying it. - Athena Canaris and John Sullivan asked what police would do if ICE acts illegally or if residents witness or protest ICE actions. Chief DeLuski and City Attorney Gordon responded that local police have limited power to interfere with federal agents, will follow New York State Attorney General guidance, and that peaceful protest and First Amendment rights remain. - Ingrid Whitman criticized Mayor McKenzie's paid trip to Israel, asked why she declined a Herald interview and skipped a Gaza vigil, and described residents' concerns about ICE, SNAP, housing, and good-cause eviction. Mayor McKenzie defended the trip as educational and non-political, saying she checked before going that it was not a conflict and that she learned about segregation and spoke with Palestinians and Israelis. - John Hodgins alleged that Darren Rigor solicited funds from Jeffrey Epstein while at Dynamic SRG and asked whether Rigor would be censured; no council response is recorded in the transcript. - Arnie Paglia, speaking online, criticized the council's meeting structure and the mayor's Israel trip as reflecting undue influence, and said neither side could trust the cannabis decision. Gail Bennington asked whether ICE contacts police ahead of time; Chief DeLuski said ICE is not required to, sometimes gives courtesy notice, but does not present warrants to police. Discussion Items - Local Law 12 of 2025 to override the NYS tax cap for the 2026 budget passed 5-2, with Councilmen Scott and Fernandez voting no; Mayor McKenzie noted this satisfied the 60% requirement. - Local Law 13 of 2025 adopted the downtown payment-in-lieu-of-parking program. Staff said it would create per-space parking and maintenance fees, eliminate fees for one-to-two unit conversions, allow developers to provide parking on site, decouple parking costs from housing, and generate about $255,000 in 2025 for 17 spaces at 1019 Park. It passed unanimously. - Local Law 14 of 2025 extended the moratorium on battery energy storage systems over 80 kWh for an additional six months; the prior moratorium had expired Nov. 5, 2025. City Attorney Gordon cited three significant BESS fires in New York since May 2023 and upcoming NYSERDA requirements. It passed unanimously. - The council discussed conditions for the 710 Washington Street cannabis microbusiness special permit, including CPL's recommended monitoring and design-review conditions; the planning director said she would return next week with a memo. - The green purchasing and green fleet policies were presented as sustainability measures to reduce emissions, waste, and operating costs. Key Outcomes - Local Law 12 (tax cap override): passed 5-2. - Local Law 13 (payment in lieu of parking): passed unanimously. - Local Law 14 (BESS moratorium extension): passed unanimously. - J1 (2026 city budget): passed 6-1; Councilman Fernandez voted no. - J2 (Holiyay Market street closure, Dec. 13-14, 2025, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.): unanimous. - J3 (New Year's Eve celebration street closure, Dec. 31, 2025, 8 p.m. to Jan. 1, 2026, 2 a.m.): unanimous. - J4 (service agreement with Peekskill City School District for a city employee three days a week, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.): unanimous. - J5 (WIOA youth employment services grant application): unanimous. - J6 (July 4, 2026 fireworks contract with Garden State Fireworks): unanimous. - J7 (New Year's Eve fireworks contract with Garden State Fireworks Inc.): unanimous. - J8 (2026 water maintenance materials bid award): unanimous. - J9 (2026 water treatment plant chemical and sludge removal bid award): unanimous. - J10 (RFP for downtown intersection design under the Momentum Fund program): unanimous. - J11 (Fleischmann Pier RFP for 2026 commercial operators and pier management): unanimous. - J12 (1050 Lower South St. referral to Planning Commission): unanimous. - J13 (winter parking regulation change on Ellen Street): passed with Councilman Douglas abstaining. - J14 (CEEP 2026 agreement renewal, $45/hour, not to exceed $38,440): unanimous. - J15 (Green Purchasing Policy): unanimous. - J16 (Green Fleet Policy): unanimous. - J17 (emergency masonry work at the Paramount Theater with MCAS Roofing and Contracting Inc.): unanimous. Discrepancy Note - The agenda listed a Good Cause Eviction presentation by Jason Hilliard of The Builders Institute, but the transcript does not contain it; no meeting minutes were available for comparison.

The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) held a public hearing and unanimously approved an area variance for a proposed third-story addition and conversion of an existing two-story commercial building at 1019 Park Street into a three-story mixed-use residential building. The project, presented by Joseph G. Thompson Architect on behalf of owner 1019 Park Street LLC, requires a floor area ratio (FAR) variance from the permitted 2.5 to 3.075 to add six residential apartments. The board also approved minutes from the July 17, 2025 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke at the hearing, and no correspondence was received by the ZBA regarding the application. Discussion Items - Proposal Overview: Joseph Thompson explained that the building, currently home to M&T Bank, is approximately 50% vacant. The plan is to adaptively reuse the structure by converting the upper floors to six residential units and adding a third story within the existing footprint, requiring only a 2-foot height increase above the parapet. The third floor will include a green roof and tenant amenities. The FAR variance is needed because the existing building has a FAR of 2.0, and the C-2 district allows only 2.5 for existing buildings, whereas new construction allows up to 3.6 FAR. The requested 3.075 FAR is well under the new construction limit. - Historic and Environmental Approvals: Thompson noted that the Historic and Landmarks Preservation Board had approved the design. The Planning Commission issued a negative declaration (SEQRA) on November 12, 2025, determining no significant environmental impact. The board discussed the green roof's stormwater mitigation and that the building would be all-electric with no fossil fuels. - Parking: The project proposes 17 annual parking permits from the James Street parking garage as part of the city’s emerging Payment in Lieu of Parking program. The board noted the garage is nearby and underutilized. - Affordable Housing: Responding to a board member’s question, Thompson confirmed that one of the twelve total units (10% ordinance) will be an affordable unit. - Five Variance Criteria: Staff reviewed the five required considerations under General City Law. The board concluded that the variance would not harm the neighborhood, the benefits cannot be achieved by other means, the variance is not substantial relative to new construction allowances, no adverse environmental effects exist (per SEQRA), and the difficulty is not self-created given the building's zero-lot-line constraints. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Approval of Variance: The ZBA voted unanimously (all members present) to approve the area variance allowing a FAR of 3.075 for the third-story addition at 1019 Park Street. The motion was made, seconded, and carried. - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the July 17, 2025 meeting. - Next Steps: The board noted that no December meeting is currently scheduled; if none occurs, they wished the community happy holidays.

The Common Council held a work session on November 17, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Common Council Chamber to discuss 16 agenda items and an executive session. The meeting covered fee schedules, youth programming, street closures, fireworks contracts, water maintenance materials, parking policies, pier management, and sustainability initiatives. Most items received consensus to bring forward formal resolutions at a subsequent meeting. Discussion Items - 2026 Consolidated Fee Schedule – City Manager Matt and Finance Director Carol presented a revised fee schedule, focusing on building permit renewal fees. Proposed fees: 5% over 12 months (max $150 residential, $1,000 commercial); 25% over 24 months (max $250 residential, $5,000 commercial); no further renewals after 24 months. Council members debated extensions, good-faith efforts, and penalties. Councilman Fernandez suggested a third-year option at 50% (max $500/$5,000). Councilwoman Talbot emphasized distinguishing penalties from extensions based on project progress. Staff will return with legislation on December 1st. Also discussed parkland fee increase to $5,750 per dwelling unit and increases in variance fees to cover legal notice costs ($400). Fee schedule changes to be refined. - MOU with Peekskill City School District – Youth Bureau Director Tuesday McDonald requested approval of an independent contractor services agreement for Francis Dow to provide mentorship at the middle school from Sept 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026, same terms as prior years. Councilwoman Talbot raised concerns about gender-neutral programming; McDonald clarified that the Youth Bureau offers inclusive programs and partners with Girl Scouts. Council approved bringing a resolution. - Street Closures for HoliYay Market and New Year’s Eve – Police Chief detailed street closures for HoliYay Market (Railroad Avenue) and New Year’s Eve (multiple streets from 8 PM Dec 31 to 1 AM Jan 1, with additional closures during fireworks 11:30 PM–12:30 AM). No overtime costs. Council approved resolutions. - Fireworks Contracts – Recreation Director Jonathan Zamora presented contracts with Garden State Fireworks. New Year’s Eve display: $8,500 (up from $7,500 due to tariffs). July 4th, 2026 (250th anniversary): $50,925 (up from $35,000 due to 135% tariffs). Zamora explored drone shows but found them more expensive. Council discussed partnering with other groups to offset costs. Approved bringing resolutions. - Water Maintenance Materials and Treatment Plant Chemicals Bids – Water Superintendent Dave Rambo presented bids resulting in an overall 11-12% cost decrease for materials and chemicals. Approved bringing resolution. - Downtown Parking Payment In-Lieu Fee – Planning’s Carol updated on the fee, with changes: easier opt-out for large projects, neutrality on pass-through to tenants, exemption for one- or two-unit conversions. Public hearing remains open; adoption anticipated on Nov 24. - Downtown Intersection Design RFP – Planning’s Peter Irwin presented a Momentum Fund project to improve four intersections (Main at Nelson, Division, Bank; South Division between South and Brown) with stamped crosswalks, ADA ramps, new signals. Budget $1.8M including design. Council approved authorizing RFP for engineering services. - Fleischmann Pier 2026 RFP – Planner Matthew Rudikoff proposed issuing an RFP for one or more boat operators and pier management services for 2026, with a five-year license term (with termination provisions). Evaluation criteria include marketing, local business connections, employee training, purchasing from Peekskill businesses. Discussion on conflict of interest if boat operator also manages pier. Carol noted city oversight. Council approved issuing RFP. - 1050 Lower South St. Referral to Planning Commission – Carol described a special permit for North Line Utility to store heavy equipment outdoors at the former BASF site (12.86 acres, M2B district). Councilman Fernandez and Deputy Mayor expressed concerns about blight and buffering. Staff will provide more details. Council approved referral to Planning Commission with council as lead agency for environmental review. - Winter Parking on Elm Street – Police Chief requested adding the 700 block of Elm Street (Ringold to Chauncey Place) to alternate-side winter parking, responding to a resident's request after school district restrictions. Pilot for one year. Councilman Fernandez expressed concerns about emergency routes and handicap parking. Council approved pilot. - CEEP 2026 Agreement Renewal – City Manager recommended renewing the Center for Economic and Environmental Partnership at $45/hour, not to exceed $38,440. They have helped secure grants exceeding costs. Council approved. - Green Purchasing Policies – Two policies presented: a general Green Purchasing Policy and a Green Fleet Policy, aiming for Climate Smart Community certification. Exceptions allowed when cost-prohibitive. Fleet manager role to be assigned to finance. Council approved bringing resolutions. - Emergency Masonry Work at Paramount – City Manager reported water damage from a masonry wall; emergency repair quote $11,500, within budget. Council approved. Key Outcomes - Building permit renewal fees: Staff directed to bring revised legislation on December 1st incorporating council feedback on third-year option and caps. - MOU for Francis Dow: Resolution to be presented for approval. - Street closures for HoliYay Market and New Year’s Eve: Resolutions authorized. - Fireworks contracts for New Year’s Eve and July 4th: Resolutions authorized. - Water maintenance materials and treatment chemicals bids: Resolution to accept lowest bids. - Downtown parking in-lieu fee: Adoption expected November 24. - Downtown intersection design RFP: Resolution to issue RFP. - Fleischmann Pier RFP: Resolution to issue RFP for 2026 operations. - 1050 Lower South St.: Referral to Planning Commission with council as lead agency. - Winter parking pilot on Elm Street: Resolution to implement. - CEEP agreement renewal: Resolution to sign. - Green purchasing policies: Two resolutions to adopt. - Emergency masonry repair: Resolution approved. Council also received liaison reports and went into executive session for personnel matters.

The Peekskill Planning Commission met on November 12, 2025, to consider several renewal and extension requests, public hearings on residential and commercial developments, and site plan approvals. The meeting included discussions on an outdoor dining renewal, a large affordable housing subdivision extension, two multi-unit residential projects on Main Street, a mixed-use conversion on Park Street, a 36-unit waterfront building, a cannabis cultivation facility, and a garage for tenant storage. Several items were approved, while others remained open pending further information. Consent Calendar - Renewal of Special Permit (P25-040): Unanimously approved the renewal of a special permit and parking waivers for an outdoor dining area with a pergola and planter boxes at 1049 Main Street (1050 Park Street). The project was originally approved in June 2023 and needed renewal due to delays in DRI funding. No objections. - Extension of Subdivision Approval (P25-041): Unanimously granted a six-month extension through May 2026 for the four-lot commercial subdivision of the Parkview Development project (1005–1017 Lower South Street and portion of 120 Travis Lane), which includes 231 affordable rental units and commercial/light manufacturing uses. The extension is needed to resolve financing and state funding issues; site plan amendments will come later. Public Comments & Testimony - 400–410 Main Street (36-unit building): - Steve Ehrenberg (115 Northwater Street) expressed support for the project but raised concerns about parking availability and large delivery trucks at the nearby restaurant, which may conflict with new sidewalks and building. - A property owner on Northwater Street (who owns multiple lots in the area) spoke at length about deep concerns: - Parking: The project’s one-to-one parking ratio is insufficient because many households have two cars; the city lot across the street (used by Copperhead Club) is vital and should not be lost. - Toxic waste: Recent remediation by Con Edison on adjacent properties revealed coal gasification waste (silvery sludge) up to the property line; he urged thorough soil testing, warning of potential health and liability risks. - Stormwater & flooding: Existing drainage is at capacity; heavy rain causes street flooding and geysers from manholes; hurricane flooding is a risk (water marks 2.5 ft up on his building). - Sewer: The neighborhood sewer system is aged and prone to blockages for days each year; adding 36 units may overwhelm it. - He also questioned the reliability of previous owner’s environmental testing due to the owner’s character. - 1019 Park Street: A letter from David Kaminsky opposed “rezoning” of 1019 Park Street; staff clarified no rezoning is proposed. The letter was placed in the record. Discussion Items - 660 Main Street (9-unit townhouse) & 668 Main Street (3-unit apartment): The public hearings continued jointly. Applicant Joseph Thompson reported progress: - Utility markout found no results; they expect one water and one sewer line in the easement and are confident they can provide two separate water/sewer lines with required separation. - Easement improvements include tree trimming to 14 ft for fire truck access, “No Parking” signs, removal of abandoned vehicles, and striping. - Percolation tests showed 1–3 inches per minute infiltration; stormwater design uses 0.5 inches per minute, so system capacity is at least double. - Site lighting adjusted to eliminate trespass; retaining wall easement being negotiated. - Pedestrian access for 668 Main Street: a crosswalk and staircase within the easement (on 660 property) will connect directly to Main Street. - The commission requested updated material submissions before the next meeting; engineering (CPL) reviews pending. Public hearings remained open. - 1019 Park Street (mixed-use conversion): The commission declared itself lead agency for SEQRA review and issued a negative declaration (no significant environmental impacts). The project proposes a third-story addition with rooftop amenity, 12 residential units (one or two bedrooms per floor), and a ground-floor restaurant (no operator yet). Parking would be offsite (James Street garage). One affordable unit initially proposed; staff corrected that 10% (1.2 units) rounds up to two affordable units. The zoning board will consider an area variance for FAR. Public hearing remains open. - 400–410 Main Street (36-unit, 5-story): Extensive discussion: - Traffic study presented by John Canning (Kimley Horn): The intersection with Main Street and Northwater/Old Pammett sees fewer than 150 vehicles per hour; project would add 12 trips per peak hour. Sight distances at proposed driveways are adequate; recommended all-way stop at the intersection. - Site plans and grading: A retaining wall and drainage way will manage runoff; no grading in the buffer along the Croton Expressway. Trees in the buffer will be preserved. - Environmental concerns: A Phase I and soil investigation were submitted that day; staff will review. The speaker’s toxic waste concerns were noted. The commission directed staff to coordinate with CPL and water superintendent (meeting scheduled next day) to assess water/sewer capacity, stormwater, and flood resilience. The building’s lowest parking level is above flood elevation; upper discharge at Main Street is well above flood level. - The public hearing remained open; the commission will revisit after reviewing submissions and meeting outcomes. - 8 John E. Walsh Boulevard (Suite 401) – Cannabis Cultivation Facility: The applicant proposed an 11,000 sq ft indoor cannabis cultivation, processing, and packaging facility (no dispensary) on the fourth floor. Five to ten employees, deliveries via existing loading dock. Ventilation and HVAC issues were resolved with CPL (compliance with NYS Mechanical Code and NYCRR125). The commission approved a negative declaration under SEQRA as an unlisted action and granted final site plan approval with conditions (staff report minus one item). The public hearing was closed. - 317 North Division Street – Garage & Storage: After obtaining a variance from the ZBA, the applicant (Luis Urbina) presented a revised design: a smaller garage (just over two cars wide) with enclosed storage on the second floor for tenants, delineated by fencing. Impervious surface reduced, landscaping increased. The upper floor designed for 100 psf live load (added as a condition). Two new outdoor parking spaces created. The commission closed the public hearing and granted final site plan approval with conditions. Key Outcomes - Approvals (unanimous): - Renewal of outdoor dining special permit (P25-040). - Extension of subdivision approval for Parkview Development (P25-041) through May 2026. - Final site plan approval for cannabis cultivation facility at 8 John E. Walsh Blvd (P25-039) with conditions. - Final site plan approval for garage at 317 North Division Street (P25-028) with conditions (including 100 psf live load notation). - Lead Agency & SEQRA Determinations: - Declared lead agency and issued negative declaration for 1019 Park Street (P25-037). - Issued negative declaration (unlisted action) for cannabis facility. - Public Hearings Continued (open): - 660 Main Street (P24-037) – awaiting engineering review and submittals. - 668 Main Street (P25-015) – same as above. - 1019 Park Street – pending ZBA variance and further SEQRA/information. - 400–410 Main Street (P24-038) – pending review of soil testing, stormwater, traffic study, and meeting with water superintendent. - Directives: Commission directed staff to coordinate with CPL and water superintendent on 400 Main Street issues; applicant to submit updated plans for 660/668 Main Street; ensure affordable units (two) for 1019 Park Street; add 100 psf live load notation to garage plans.

The Peekskill Common Council held a work session and regular meeting on Monday, November 10, 2025, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The agenda included a presentation on the Regeneration Farms project, discussions on community hub planning and battery storage moratorium, four public hearings (tax cap override, 2026 budget, payment in lieu of parking text amendment, and a cannabis micro-business application), and nine resolutions. Votes on the tax cap override and budget were postponed to November 24. Public Presentation - Regeneration Farms: Jason Angel (Co-director, Ecological Citizens Project) and Amanda Armentaros presented a five-year recap of the Peekskill Regeneration Farm at Lapore Park. Highlights: over $450,000 raised through grants, 1,000+ pounds of free organic produce distributed, seven paid youth apprentices trained, 30+ free public events engaging over 1,000 community members, a pollinator garden, a food forest, and new community infrastructure. Angel proposed transferring the license agreement (expiring end of 2025) from Ecological Citizens Project to Armentaros’ new nonprofit, Building Eden Farms (B Farms). Council members expressed strong support, praising the community impact, especially intergenerational connections (salad project with seniors and youth) and art events (Praise in the Garden festival with 100 attendees). Discussion Items - Community Hub Planning: City Manager Matthew Alexander outlined a plan to use $295,000 in grants (legislative aid and Empire State Development) for a planning study and design of a downtown recreation campus that would include the Youth Bureau, Neighborhood Center, and Kylie Center. The first step is an RFP for professional design consulting services (approximately $55,000), leaving $240,000+ for design documents. Councilman Brian Facet noted the poor condition of the Youth Bureau steps and requested a separate estimate for repairs. No objections were raised. - Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Moratorium: Corporation Counsel Eric reported that the existing moratorium on large-scale BESS (over 80 kWh) expired on November 5. He proposed a six-month extension due to ongoing fire safety concerns and pending state regulations. A public hearing was set for November 24. The council agreed; residential systems (<80 kWh) are not affected. - Police Department Locker Room HVAC: The city seeks to hire a consultant for an energy audit and heat recovery assessment, funded 75% by NYSERTA and 25% by the city. This is part of a larger project to upgrade the police locker room in a building shared with the court, library, and neighborhood center. Public Hearings - Public Hearing 1 – Override NYS Tax Cap: The city’s allowed tax cap was calculated at 2.34%. The proposed levy increase of 3.5% would result in a tax rate increase of 2.98%, equating to $7.39/month for an average home (assessed at $425,000). No oral comments were received; one written comment was entered into the record. The hearing was closed. The subsequent resolution (J1) failed on a roll-call vote: 4 in favor (Facet, Douglas, Talbot, Riley), 1 opposed (Scott), 2 absent (Fernandez, McKenzie). Because a supermajority (60%) was required, the vote was adjourned to November 24. - Public Hearing 2 – 2026 Budget: The budget summary showed 77% of expenditures are labor-related. Property tax accounts for 42% of revenue. The proposal includes a 3.5% levy increase and $500,000 appropriation of fund balance. No oral comments; one written comment. The hearing was closed. Resolution J2 (adopt budget) was also adjourned to November 24. - Public Hearing 3 – Payment in Lieu of Parking (PILOP) Text Amendment: Continued from September 8. Planning Director Carol Samol noted that revised text was provided on November 7. No oral comments; one written comment. The hearing was adjourned to November 24. - Public Hearing 4 – 710 Washington Street (Cannabis Micro-Business): Continued for written comments only. Samol reported that engineering firm CPL reviewed the applicant’s odor mitigation plan and found it likely effective if properly installed/maintained. CPL recommended independent VOC sensors (already proposed by applicant) and final design review before building permit. The building also has a notice to remedy for unrelated issues. Written comments remain open until November 24. The hearing was adjourned to that date. Key Outcomes - Resolutions Passed Unanimously: - J2: Authorize street closures for Reindeer Run (December 6, 9–11 a.m.). - J3: Authorize RFP for professional design consulting for community hub downtown campus planning. - J4: Authorize Peekskill Facilities Development Corporation to approve bids for the Firehouse Kitchen Incubator (pending EDA approval). - J5: Approve cable franchise renewal agreement with Verizon. - J6: Set public hearing for November 24 on extending BESS moratorium. - J7: Authorize intermunicipal agreement with Westchester County for STOP-DWI Patrol/Datamaster Program (2025–2030). - J8: Authorize acceptance of donations for emergency SNAP meal preparation/distribution (due to federal shutdown starting November 1). - J9: Authorize agreement with Wendel Energy Services for police locker room HVAC audit. - Postponed to November 24: - Local Law to override the NYS tax cap (J1) – vote failed to reach 60% supermajority. - Adoption of the 2026 City Budget (J2) – automatically postponed with J1, as the budget depends on the tax cap decision. - Executive Session: The council voted to enter executive session to discuss personnel matters. Public Comments - One resident, Beverly Chang of Popular Circle, thanked the city for providing food to residents affected by the SNAP cuts and congratulated Councilman-elect Charlie DeGrisio. No other comments were offered. The meeting adjourned into executive session.

The Common Council held a work session on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 6:30 PM. The meeting covered budget highlights, a food insecurity emergency response, street closures, a payment in lieu of parking program, a kitchen incubator bid award, a Verizon franchise agreement, and a police DWI patrol program. Council also discussed liaison reports and concerns. Discussion Items - 2026 Budget Highlights (Toni Tracy, Comptroller): Tracy presented a summary of the 2026 budget process, including a proposed tax levy increase of 3.5% above the state cap. The impact on the average homeowner (assessed home value $9,707) would be $7.39 per month increase, compared to $4.53 if staying at the cap. The fee schedule for building permit extensions was proposed to be scaled: 10% for the first six-month extension, 25% for the second, and 50% for the third. Council members expressed concerns that the fees were too high, especially for small projects. Council requested comparisons with neighboring municipalities (e.g., Yorktown charges $250 or 5%, whichever is less). The comptroller agreed to bring back a full analysis. - Food Insecurity Emergency Response (Jonathan Zamora, Greg, Nutrition Department): Zamora reported on the rapid establishment (within 72 hours) of a food distribution program following the cessation of SNAP benefits. The program includes three daily distribution slots (8-10 AM, 12-2 PM, 5-7 PM) starting Wednesday, November 5. They have 98 volunteers and have received $65,000 in pledges, enough for two weeks. DoorDash deliveries via United Way will serve homebound residents. Priority groups are the elderly, disabled, and families with children under 5. The city manager commended the team. Council discussed potential federal restoration of SNAP benefits and the need for a longer-term plan. A resolution to approve the action will be brought next week. - Street Closure for Reindeer Run: The St. Patrick's Committee submitted a parade permit application for December 6, 2025, from 10-11 AM to collect toys and non-perishable food for families in need. The route starts and ends at the Central Firehouse, avoiding Park Street. Council noted the event coincides with the tree lighting. The closure will be brought back for approval. - Payment in Lieu of Parking (PILOP) – Carol Samuel, Planning: Samuel presented a memo to proceed with a payment-in-lieu program for downtown parking. Council raised concerns about impacts on small conversion projects (e.g., commercial to residential). The fee is halved for conversions, but members asked for a minimum project size exemption. Samuel noted that projects can appeal to the ZBA for waivers. The matter will be discussed further in executive session due to legal guidance on affordable housing restrictions. - Kitchen Incubator Bid Award – Matthew Rudikoff: Rudikoff requested council authorization to submit the low bids to the Economic Development Administration (EDA) for permission to award, due to the government shutdown. The project has a 6% contingency. Council expressed support but noted that the source of $1.4 million (CDBG loan repayment funds) needs a full discussion regarding permanent versus revolving loan use. The item will return for final award after EDA approval. - Verizon Franchise Agreement – City Attorney: The proposed five-year cable franchise renewal agreement had a public hearing with no comments. Council will bring it for approval on November 10. Councilman Brian asked about defunct wires left by service changes; the attorney will request Verizon to address removal. Council also discussed city powers to remove abandoned utility wires. - STOP DWI Patrol/Datamaster Program – Chief Deleuski: The chief presented a renewal of a partnership with Westchester County providing $8,400 per year to fund overtime for DWI enforcement. The program has resulted in 5-10 arrests per week. Council approved bringing back a resolution. - Police Locker Room HVAC Project: The city manager announced a NYSERDA grant covering 75% ($36,000) of a $48,000 project to provide an HVAC solution at the police station. The contract will be brought back next week. - Council Liaison Reports: - Councilman Scott reported on the Youth Bureau's recent activities, including college tours, a civic training, and upcoming Thanksgiving food drive. The bureau is understaffed and seeks more community involvement. - Councilman Douglas noted the Conservation Advisory Council meeting moved to November 20. He asked for legal clarification on the affordable housing ordinance and a scaffolding ordinance. - Councilman Fernandez requested a handicapped parking sign repaint on Phoenix Avenue and a fee waiver for CHOP (food distribution) during the declared emergency due to the SNAP crisis. A discussion ensued about fairness to other nonprofits; the city manager offered free use of the riverfront or library neighborhood center, but the organization declined. The matter will be further discussed. - Councilwoman Talla advocated for postponing the winter parking regulation start to January 1 to reduce hardship for residents. Council agreed to place the item on a future agenda. - Other Updates: The wayfinding signs are installed; Halloween party at senior center; youth jobs program graduation; and a food drive box will be placed at City Hall for CHOP. Key Outcomes - Most agenda items will be brought back as resolutions at the November 10, 2025 regular meeting. - The budget fee schedule for building permit extensions requires further comparison with other municipalities; comptroller will report back. - The food insecurity emergency response will continue; a resolution for approval is scheduled for next week. - The kitchen incubator bid authorization was endorsed; funding source discussion to continue. - The Verizon franchise agreement and police DWI program will be voted on at the next meeting. - An executive session was held to discuss matters involving personnel, finances, and real property. - Council directed the city manager to schedule further discussion on winter parking regulations and the fee waiver for food distribution events.

The Peekskill Industrial Development Agency (IDA) and Peekskill Facilities Development Corporation (PFDC) held a joint meeting on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 7:15 PM in the Common Council Chamber. The meeting covered financial reports, budget approvals, updates on the kitchen incubator project, insurance renewals, a PILOT application for 901 Main Street, and a new proposal for a museum at 47-49 South Water Street. The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the September 30, 2025 IDA and PFDC meetings unanimously. - Approved the FY26 budgets for both the IDA and PFDC as presented by Abby, with the note that the LDC (Local Development Corporation) budget (all zeros) was also approved by voice vote. Discussion Items - Monthly Financial Report: Abby presented the IDA financial summary as of October 24, 2025. Revenues included $49,000 in application/administrative fees (partly from Treadway bond modification), $17,700 in interest, and $40,000 appropriated from fund balance for the kitchen incubator. Expenditures included $53,000 in professional fees, $33,129 spent on the kitchen incubator to date (with $7,000 remaining of the $40,000 appropriation). The board noted that the $30,000 Treadway fee is restricted and should be clearly marked as such to avoid implying a false surplus. PFDC financials showed $1,147 in interest and $4,271 in professional fees. - Draft FY26 Budget Review: Abby presented the draft FY26 budgets. IDA budget projects $55,000 in application fees, $24,000 interest, $645,000 appropriated fund balance (remaining from the $850,000 for the incubator), and $36,300 in rental income. Expenses include $13,000 for Matthew's stipend, $65,000 for professional services (reduced from $70,000), $1,500 for QuickBooks, $2,500 for memberships, $295 for conferences, $3,500 for audit, $30,000 for insurance (significant increase from $11,000), and $645,000 for the kitchen incubator. PFDC budget projects $10,000 in interest, $35,000 appropriated for workforce development, and anticipates receipt of $2.3 million from federal EDA grant, $995,000 from state grant, and a $1.4 million loan from the city. Both budgets were approved. - Old Business - PFKI (Kitchen Incubator) Update: Chair Matthew reported that the rebid for Contract 1 (general construction) opened October 7, 2025, with a bid of $4.7 million. Combined with Contracts 2 and 3, the total exceeded available funds. Iron Sword, the lowest bidder (also an SDVOB), proposed deducts to reduce costs by nearly 8%, bringing the total within funding. Deducts include deferring construction of a dry storage extension and deferring purchase of separate walk-in freezers/coolers for food trucks. Temporary dry storage will use the truck bay; food trucks will use existing walk-ins in the North Garage. The project sponsor clarified that the deferred items can be accommodated with initial operations. The board agreed to authorize submission of the bid package to the EDA for permission to award, pending city council concurrence on converting the $1.4 million float to a permanent construction loan. A memo will be prepared for the November 10 city council meeting. The board also requested an updated operating pro forma for the next meeting. - Old Business - 901 Main Street PILOT Application Update: Matthew reported that Treadway (the developer) has proposed zero PILOT payments for a housing conversion project at 901 Main Street (formerly Courtyard Housing). Multiple meetings have occurred with city assessor, city manager, corporation counsel, and the developer's attorneys. The city and IDA are negotiating for some PILOT payments and potentially contract-based payments for services (e.g., transportation, food) that could count as material commitments. A response letter summarizing deal points is being prepared. The board expressed a need to be kept informed and requested to see the draft correspondence before it is sent. The chair noted that a public hearing may be needed in late November or early December if a deal is reached. - Old Business - Draft PILOT Policy and UTEP Update: Matthew reported that the city manager has asked for a revised draft PILOT policy, incorporating lessons from the 901 Main and other projects. Categories (e.g., housing tax credits, industrial, target neighborhoods) and deviation procedures are being defined. The policy discussion is ongoing and expected to involve joint IDA/council discussions. - Old Business - Liability Insurance Renewals: The IDA and PFDC received a quote for $30,000 for property and liability insurance (up from $11,000 the previous year). Justin, legal counsel, explained the increase is due to previously inadequate coverage, including new policies for PFDC and affirmative coverage for properties like RESCO and the marina. The board directed staff to solicit additional quotes before binding, but noted that binding is needed immediately. A discussion ensued about potentially being reimbursed by the city or RESCO for insurance costs related to those properties. - New Business - 47-49 South Water Street (formerly Peekskill Brewery): Matthew reported a new proposal from film producer Bill Diamond to relocate a horror genre museum (Famous Monsters of Filmland) from Plainfield, CT to the former brewery building. The museum is a permitted waterfront use. The proponents have not yet provided a pro forma or business plan. They seek potential tax exemptions and grant funding. The board agreed to continue vetting and may invite a presentation at a future meeting if progress is made. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of September 30, 2025 IDA and PFDC meetings. - Approved FY26 budgets for IDA, PFDC, and LDC (the LDC budget as all zeros). - Directed submission of the kitchen incubator bid package to the EDA for permission to award, contingent on city council approval of loan conversion. - Requested an updated operating pro forma for the kitchen incubator by the next meeting. - Directed staff to solicit additional insurance quotes before binding the $30,000 policy. - Authorized preparing a response letter to Treadway for the 901 Main PILOT negotiation, with the draft shared with the board. - Noted that the PILOT policy update will be discussed jointly with the city council. - Agreed to continue exploring the museum proposal at 47-49 South Water Street. - No executive session was held.

The meeting began at 6:00 p.m. in the Common Council Chamber with a work session that included Italian American Heritage Month recognitions, a budget wrap-up and fee schedule discussion, and a proposal to override the New York State tax cap. The regular council meeting followed, featuring public hearings, unanimous resolutions, and a public comment period. Several items were continued to November 10, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - John Hodgins (1014 North Division Street) questioned the city’s third consecutive tax cap override, noting that the city received a $10 million DRI grant and asking why other communities manage without overrides. City Manager Matthew Alexander explained that the DRI grant is for capital projects, not operations, and that rising costs in insurance, pensions, and materials drive the increase. - Garrett Dowd (200 block of Nelson) expressed concern about the tax cap override and later criticized the payment-in-lieu-of-parking (PILOP) program as a “giveaway” that prioritizes developers over residents and businesses. - Elena Walker (Mallard Way) asked about budget analysis by department, outstanding legal claims, and the kitchen incubator’s impact on the budget. - Beverly Chang (Popular Circle) appreciated department budget presentations and asked about the percentage of mandatory spending. - During Citizens Desiring to Be Heard, a resident voiced opposition to additional cannabis businesses, and another raised concerns about rent increases at River Point (8.4% increase) for seniors. Discussion Items - Italian American Heritage Month Recognitions: The council honored four individuals – Joseph Schuter, Paul Strago Sr., Reverend George Caniglio, and Anna Maria Del Monaco – with proclamations celebrating their contributions to the community. - Budget Wrap-Up and Fee Schedule: Comptroller Tony Tracy presented the 2026 consolidated fee schedule. Council members questioned specific fees, including tree removal ($110 vs. $10 in Cortlandt), photocopy charges ($2 per page vs. $0.25 in Cortlandt), and building permit renewal fees (50% of original permit cost). The council agreed to study the permit renewal fee further. Planning Director Carol Samol explained that planning escrow fees were increased to better reflect consultant costs, noting that unused funds are refunded. - Tax Cap Override Discussion: The proposed 2026 budget includes a 3.5% tax levy increase ($20,723,327), exceeding the state cap of 2.34% by 1.16%. The tax rate would rise from $307.11 to $316.25 per $1,000 of assessed value, an average increase of $88 per home. The council scheduled a public hearing for November 10, 2025, to consider overriding the cap. - Payment in Lieu of Parking (PILOP): The public hearing was continued to November 10. Planning Director Carol Samol outlined changes, including neutrality on who pays permit fees, allowing upfront payment of maintenance fees for five years, and noting that affordable housing developers can opt for higher upfront fees ($30,000 per space) instead of annual fees. - 710 Washington Street (Cannabis Microbusiness): The public hearing was continued to November 10 for written comments only, pending engineering and building reports. - City Manager’s Report: Matthew Alexander reported that the city collected $85,000 in fines for overcrowding violations, announced an arrest in a shooting investigation, and noted a school lockdown that was unfounded. The fire department held a successful open house, and the Lincoln Monument celebrated its 100th anniversary with a time capsule. Key Outcomes - Resolution J8 (Override NYS Tax Cap – Set Public Hearing): Passed 6-1, with Councilman Fernandez voting no. The public hearing is scheduled for November 10, 2025. - All other resolutions (J1–J7, J9–J12) passed unanimously: - J1: Adopt MTA Parking Management Plan for 2026. - J2: Street closure for Turkey Trot on November 22, 2025 (8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.). - J3: Free holiday parking in downtown garages from November 28, 2025, through January 2, 2026. - J4–J6: Reappoint Kecia Palmer-Cousins, Ruth Wells, and Gregory Schondelmeier to the Planning Commission. - J7: Street closure for Holiday Tree Lighting on December 6, 2025 (8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.). - J9: Authorize agreement with Avanti Engineering for SCADA system upgrade at the water treatment plant. - J10: Authorize agreement with Barton & Loguidice for a water treatment plant study ($79,000). - J11: Appoint Ruben Gray as a volunteer firefighter. - J12: Accept FEMA Port Security Grant ($688,694) for a fire rescue vessel. - Public hearings on the 2026 budget, PILOP, and 710 Washington Street were all continued to November 10, 2025. - The council adjourned into executive session to discuss personnel and real property matters.

The Historic & Landmarks Preservation Board met on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. in the Common Council Chamber. The board addressed two items: approval of prior meeting minutes and a procedural vote to consent to the Planning Commission serving as lead agency for environmental review of 1019 Park Street. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board unanimously approved the draft minutes from the September 25, 2025 meeting with no questions or concerns. Discussion Items - 1019 Park Street – Environmental Review Lead Agency: The board considered a request from the Planning Commission for consent to act as lead agency for the environmental review of 1019 Park Street, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The planning department recommended approval, noting that the Planning Commission is well suited to handle such reviews. The board discussed the procedural nature of the vote and agreed to revisit the Planning Commission's conclusions at a subsequent meeting. Key Outcomes - Vote: The board voted unanimously (motion, second, all in favor) to consent to the Planning Commission serving as lead agency for the environmental review of 1019 Park Street. - Next Meeting: The board scheduled its next meeting for December 4, 2025. There will be no meeting in November 2025 due to the Thanksgiving holiday.