Public Meetings - Peekskill, New York

The Common Council held a work session followed by a regular council meeting on August 31, 2026, starting at 9:00 a.m. The agenda included awarding the 2026 street resurfacing bid, authorizing a letter of support for the Broad Howard development, and a presentation on a youth woodworking and boatbuilding community space proposal. The council also received liaison reports and conducted an executive session. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the August 17, 2026 meeting were dispensed with and entered into the record unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke in person during the public comment portions of the meeting. One email from D.T. Henry regarding Resolution J1 (street resurfacing) was received and entered into the record. Discussion Items - 2026 Street Resurfacing Bid: DPW Superintendent Cornell Hammonds reported that on August 24, 2026, three bids were received for the 2026 resurfacing of streets contract. The lowest bid was from Laura Lee Industries, LLC at $842,492.25. A list of streets to be resurfaced was read aloud (e.g., South Division, Decatur Street, Orchard Domain, Lita Drive, etc.). Work is expected to begin within two to three weeks after contract finalization. - Letter of Support for Broad Howard Development: City Manager explained that the city is negotiating a PILOT agreement with the developer and the IDA for the proposed 57-unit Broad and Howard development. The agreement is structured to ensure the city does not lose tax revenue. A non-binding letter of support is requested to help the developer secure tax credits. The council discussed that this is a formality and similar to last year's support. - Youth Woodworking and Boatbuilding Community Space: City Manager presented a proposal from Sloyd, a nonprofit that has expanded from Jim Taylor's boatbuilding program. Sloyd proposes to use space at the youth bureau (828 Main) with a glass storefront, and eventually build a boatbuilding facility at the riverfront (subject to flood zone challenges). The council was informed that no action is required at this time; the presentation was for awareness and future discussion. - Liaison Reports: - Councilman DeGucio reported on the successful backpack giveaway event at the youth bureau, thanking partners. - Councilman Fachman had no fire department report; the next bid meeting is scheduled for September 1, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. - Councilman Rieger raised concern about gas-powered leaf blowers being used on a Sunday morning and suggested a moratorium in June, July, and August. - Councilwoman Chang reported on the HRC meeting on August 25, 2026; membership is growing and the commission is developing priorities and engaging in the community hub resident input form. - Councilwoman Talbot reported on Paramount Theatre marquee work and parking issues on South Division Street. - Deputy Mayor reported on the library board meeting: the tax levy proposal was submitted on time, a pilot school library registration program with the school district was discussed, and the board approved an emergency response plan and social media policy updates. Also reported on the senior pool party (held at the neighborhood center due to rain) and the senior advisory meeting scheduled for September 15, 2026. Key Outcomes - Resolution J1 (Award 2026 Street Resurfacing Bid): The council voted unanimously to award bid number 2026-003 for resurfacing and repair of city streets to the lowest responsible bidder, Laura Lee Industries, LLC, at $842,492.25, and authorized the city manager to enter into an agreement. - Resolution J2 (Authorize Letters of Support for Broad Howard Development): The council voted unanimously to authorize the city manager and city assessor to issue letters of support for the Broad Howard development (57 residential units) to assist the developer in securing financing, contingent on the PILOT agreement being fiscally feasible for the city. - Executive Session: The meeting was adjourned to executive session to discuss matters concerning the medical, financial, credit, or employment history of a particular person, persons, or corporation, or matters leading to appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, etc.

The Peekskill Industrial Development Agency (IDA) held a regular meeting on August 25, 2026, at 7:05 PM in the Common Council Chamber. The meeting focused on a bond refinancing and PILOT extension for the Stuhr Gardens affordable housing project, approval of minutes, financial reports, and updates on several ongoing initiatives. The board also authorized a non-binding letter of support for the Broad Howard project and entered into executive session. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the June 23, 2026 regular meeting (IDA and PFDC) unanimously. Discussion Items - Stuhr Gardens PILOT and Bond Refinancing: The IDA issued $7.2 million in affordable housing bonds in May 2007 with a 40-year PILOT. The lender called the bonds, requiring redemption by September 1, 2026. The project sponsor secured new Fannie Mae permanent financing and requested up to $100,000 in mortgage recording tax exemption. The board approved a resolution authorizing bond redemption, lease amendments, and the exemption. The IDA's position and the remaining 20-year PILOT are unchanged; the city council previously approved subordination of the host community fee. Capital improvements (paving, roofing, boiler, appliances) are planned, and a $467,000 replacement reserve exists. The IDA will receive a 10% fee ($10,000) from the tax exemption benefit. - Monthly Financial Report (PIDA): Abby presented revenues and expenditures through August 25, 2026. Revenues included $225,000 in application/admin fees (with $4,000 from Stuhr Gardens), $11,000 in interest, and $36,300 in rental income. Expenses covered executive director stipend, professional fees, insurance, and the kitchen incubator project ($17,000 spent, with $619,000 remaining of the $850,000 IDA contribution). Of $196,000 in eligible pre-construction costs, the project can request an 80% federal reimbursement ($157,000). The board directed pursuing reimbursement aggressively. - PFDC Financial Report: PFDC received $10,000 from Treadway for workforce development. It contributed $4,000 to the downtown/waterfront shuttle. Insurance for the incubator property cost $11,000. Unrestricted funds total $19,000. The board requested an invoicing system for Treadway's annual payments. - Solo Project Update: The project remains active. The sponsor closed a $10 million grant to relocate a sewer line, a key financing component. Tax credit financing is still being finalized. - Downtown/Waterfront Shuttle Update: The shuttle operates with about 25 riders per weekend. Promotion includes a mention on the pontoon boat website. - PFKI (Kitchen Incubator) Update: Matthew reported that a steering committee is exploring additional financing, including federal earmarks via elected officials after city manager coordination. Construction budget changes yielded only $80,000 net savings due to added costs. The EDA rejected phased contracting. The city is considering a license agreement to offset heating costs. Two draft RFEIs (management/operations and private investment) are prepared. The separate nutrition program continues. - Destination Peekskill Update: A 501(c)(6) nonprofit is forming with a website (destinationpeekskill.org). A memorandum of understanding with the city is in its second draft. - Broad Howard Project Update: The proposed 57-unit affordable housing project is reapplying for Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and needs a city letter of support. The city is negotiating a PILOT that would approximate full taxes. No formal IDA application has been submitted. The board agreed to provide a non-binding letter of support to assist the application. - Peekskill Business Initiative: A business registry of 950 businesses was developed using interns. Outreach includes a city manager video and a six-question survey to collect data and promote destinationpeekskill.org. Key Outcomes - Approved the resolution authorizing Stuhr Gardens bond redemption, lease amendments, and mortgage recording tax exemption (unanimous). - Approved minutes of June 23, 2026 (IDA and PFDC) unanimously. - Directed staff to pursue aggressive EDA reimbursement for pre-development costs. - Authorized a non-binding letter of support for the Broad Howard project. - Entered into executive session to discuss personnel issues.

The Peekskill Common Council met on August 20, 2026 (despite the transcript indicating August 17, 2026, the official date provided for this summary) to discuss public safety, parking improvements, a proposed bicycle and e-bike ordinance, and routine city business. The meeting included a presentation on a new mobile parking payment app and kiosks, a public hearing on amendments to Chapter 182 (Bicycles and Inline Skates), and a statement from the police chief regarding an ICE incident. All resolutions on the agenda passed unanimously. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Unanimously approved the minutes of the July 13 and July 27, 2026, meetings. Public Comments & Testimony - Ann Jack Leon (Lakeview Dr.) asked for a red-lined version of changes to the information security policy (Item 7). The city attorney indicated a red-line was included in the meeting package. - East Walker expressed concerns about cybersecurity and whether resolutions 1 and 7 address recent hacking and photo-bombing. He also questioned whether a new affordable housing consulting service is redundant with the existing Peekskill Plan. City Manager Carol clarified the consultant would handle specialized tasks like financial analysis of specific projects, not replace the Plan. - Public Hearing on Bicycles/Inline Skates (Chapter 182): Multiple speakers addressed the proposed amendment. Many were alarmed by language in Section 182.5(C) that appeared to ban bicycles on streets within the Business Improvement District (BID). Rebecca Morris, Nathan, Matthew Jackson, Megan Sia, Christy O'Donnell, Sunny Cover, and others opposed any bicycle ban, emphasizing that many residents rely on bikes for transportation and that banning bikes would harm local businesses. They urged the city to invest in bike lanes instead. Speakers also supported e-bike/scooter safety regulations and age limits. Judith Coleman and David Friederman strongly supported the age limit and restrictions on e-bikes on sidewalks, citing safety concerns. The Chief confirmed the intent is to prohibit e-bikes, e-scooters, and similar devices on sidewalks, not to ban bicycles from streets. The existing BID bicycle ban (from 1984) has never been enforced and the city attorney is working to remove that section. The council voted to continue the public hearing on September 14, 2026. - General Public Comments: - Laverne Collins (Summit Ave.) raised a safety issue about light shields on street lights reducing illumination; she presented a petition. The city manager said he would look into it. - Evelyn Lovett (951 Main St.) complained about missing benches along Main Street, making it difficult for elderly pedestrians. The city manager acknowledged the issue. - Cynthia Anderson (1103 Brown St.) presented a petition with over 60 signatures from neighborhood center users requesting a daytime cleaner for the facility due to unclean restrooms and common areas. The city manager said he would investigate. - Elena Munice Walker urged the council not to approve a proposed solar panel project, citing a petition of nearly 700 signatures and concerns about the water supply. The mayor responded that decisions will be based on professional input, not social media. - Ms. Backis (former Peekskill resident) requested a reserved parking spot to care for her elderly sister at 901 Main St., as she frequently receives tickets despite being only a few minutes late. The city manager said available spots are constrained but would try to help. Discussion Items - Quality of Life & Department Updates: City Manager reported a 33% reduction in reported offenses (574 vs. 857) in the first six months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, attributed to increased police walking posts. DPW changes include a new management approach enforcing business clean-up and ticketing for litter. The building department is taking a no-tolerance approach on landlord violations, including heat and overcrowding, with cases going to court. Parking issues are being addressed with a new payment system. - Parking System Upgrade: Tony Tracy introduced the new Passport parking app and Arrive kiosks. Jeanette Kasmarkowitz (Passport) demonstrated the app, which allows pay-by-phone with a convenience fee ($0.35 per transaction). Ed Kincaid (Arrive) demonstrated the solar-powered, weather-resistant kiosk that accepts coins and credit cards with no fee. The city has purchased 10 kiosks to be installed in high-use areas; existing coin meters will be removed. The system is pay-by-space initially, transitioning to pay-by-plate. The council requested an in-person training session at the senior center and a video demonstration. - Public Hearing on Bicycles/Inline Skates: The hearing was opened; Chief Brendwick explained the goal is to regulate e-bikes, e-scooters, and similar devices on sidewalks for safety, not to ban traditional bicycles. After extensive public comment about confusion over the proposed language, the council voted to adjourn the hearing to September 14, 2026, to allow for revisions. The city is also planning an education campaign with the school district. - Police Chief’s Statement on ICE Incident: Chief Brendwick reported that on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at approximately 7:10 AM, ICE contacted the Peekskill Police after a vehicle pursuit. Peekskill officers responded to monitor the situation and handle local matters (accident, property damage), but did not participate in immigration enforcement. The chief confirmed the department does not enforce federal immigration law and will not assist ICE in civil immigration enforcement. He said a review is underway to determine why federal vehicles entered the police lot after the incident. - Resolutions J1-J12: All were presented, discussed briefly, and passed unanimously. Key items include: - J1: Cybersecurity software agreement with NYS. - J2-J4: Street closure permits for religious and commemorative events. - J5: Appointment to Planning Commission. - J6: Appointment to Human Relations Commission. - J7: Update to information security policy. - J8: Declare fire department equipment surplus for auction. - J9: Accept $47,500 CDBG grant for elevator control panel at Neighborhood Center. - J10: Authorize RFQ for affordable housing consulting services on an as-needed basis. - J11: Subordination agreement for Stir Gardens MIFA and PIDA agreements related to refinancing. - J12: Schedule public hearing for BID extension on September 14, 2026. Key Outcomes - Public Hearing on Bicycles/Inline Skates: Continued to September 14, 2026, pending revisions to remove the bicycle ban language from the BID section. - Parking System: City will proceed with Passport app and 10 Arrive kiosks; installation expected in September 2026. Training sessions and a video demonstration to be arranged. - ICE Incident: Police chief's statement accepted; internal review of federal vehicle access to police lot ongoing. - Resolutions: All 12 resolutions (J1-J12) passed unanimously. - Neighborhood Center Cleanliness: City manager and DPW director to investigate hiring a daytime cleaner. - Street Light Shields on Summit Ave.: City manager to follow up with DPW. - Missing Benches: City manager to address bench reinstatement. - Parking Accommodation: City manager to assist Ms. Backis regarding caregiver parking. Next Steps - The council will hold a continued public hearing on Chapter 182 on September 14, 2026. - A public hearing on BID extension also scheduled for September 14, 2026. - The city will provide public education on e-bike regulations and the new parking payment system.

Introductory paragraph summarizing the overall meeting. The Committee of the Whole meeting was held on August 20, 2026, with the Mayor presiding. The agenda included two main discussion items: a request for qualifications for an affordable housing consultant and a subordination request for Stewart Gardens' PILOT and impact fee. The meeting also featured liaison reports from council members on local events and community concerns. The session concluded with a motion to adjourn and proceed to a council meeting. Discussion Items - Affordable Housing Consultant Request for Qualifications: Carol Samuel, representing the city staff, proposed issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for an affordable housing and housing consultant to be available on an hourly basis. The consultant would provide guidance on specific projects, state programs, financing, and payment-in-lieu determinations. Council members discussed the scope, budget, and local preference. Questions were raised about how to budget for hourly work and how to ensure local community priorities are considered. The council expressed support for proceeding with the RFQ to select a consultant in the fall. - Stewart Gardens Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) and Impact Fee Subordination: Matt Rudokov explained that the owner of Stewart Gardens at 2000 Frost Lane is refinancing and new lenders require subordination of the city's impact fee and the IDA's PILOT. The existing PILOT and impact fee terms (approved in 2007, extending to 2047) remain unchanged. The subordination means that in case of default or foreclosure, the private lenders would have priority over the city's claim. However, the property would then be subject to full real property taxes, and the city would still retain its impact fee claim. The council approved the subordination resolution, which will also be presented at the IDA meeting on August 25, 2026. Liaison Reports and Community Announcements - Councilwoman Chang encouraged parents to get children vaccinated before school starts. - The Mayor announced a Paramount fundraiser for youth and children's programming in October. - Councilman DeGrugio reported on a butterfly tagging event at Woodside School Garden on August 22 (rain date August 23) and a backpack and school supply giveaway on August 25 at 5 p.m. - Councilman Facet thanked the DPW for repainting crosswalks downtown. - Deputy Mayor noted that the Senior Advisory meeting will resume September 15 and a Library Board meeting on August 20 at 6:30 p.m. - The Mayor acknowledged the seniors' active summer and thanked staff for the summer barbecue and National Night Out. - Several council members raised concerns about large trucks using side streets and requested signage to prohibit through traffic; the city manager indicated they would work with the police department and city attorney on weight limits and enforcement. - The Deputy Mayor requested the installation of "drive carefully" signs in advance of the school year; the city manager confirmed they are working on it. Key Outcomes - Council directed staff to proceed with issuing an RFQ for an affordable housing consultant. - Council approved the subordination of Stewart Gardens' impact fee and PILOT to facilitate the owner's refinancing; no changes were made to the underlying terms. - Council received updates on upcoming community events and directed staff to address traffic concerns, including truck routing and school zone signage.

Date: August 20, 2026, 8:00 p.m. Location: Common Council Chamber, Peekskill, NY The Zoning Board of Appeals held a public hearing on a single application for an area variance related to off-street parking and then attempted to approve minutes from the previous meeting but lacked a quorum. The meeting concluded with the variance granted and the minutes tabled. Public Hearing: Daniel Lituma – 935 Lockwood Drive (Z26-007) - Applicant representative: Elizabeth Parks, Architect, Garrison, NY. She explained the request for a variance from Section 575-12 G(8)(a) of the City of Peekskill Zoning Ordinance to allow parking in the front yard. The variance is needed to widen the existing driveway rather than extending it alongside the garage. The alternative would require more paving and potentially harm a mature tree. The property is zoned R-1B (One-Family Residential). The application seeks relief only for the location of parking, not an increase in the number of spaces; two off-street parking spaces are permitted. - Public speaker: Frank Salouski, 887 Lockwood Drive. He opposed the variance, arguing that the property already has seven vehicles (including what he described as commercial vans with passenger plates) that alter the character of the neighborhood, lower property values, and violate city ordinances limiting parking to three vehicles. He presented videos of the street. He stated that the vehicles are parked on the lawn in winter and that the appearance of commercial vehicles diminishes the residential nature of the area. - Applicant response: Daniel Lituma (homeowner) stated all vehicles are personal, and family visitors sometimes park there but leave. He noted the vehicles are not commercial. - Board deliberation: Members discussed whether the variance is substantial, whether alternative methods exist, and the potential impact on the neighborhood. They noted that the variance only changes parking location, not number of spaces, and that cars would still be visible from the street regardless of location. The board acknowledged the neighbor's concerns but concluded the variance does not create a detriment or undesirable change to neighborhood character because it merely shifts parking to a slightly different spot. Regarding commercial vehicle concerns, the board noted that such enforcement is outside its purview and that existing city rules already prohibit commercial vehicle parking in residential districts. Key Outcomes - Motion to grant the variance: Passed unanimously (3‑0? – exact count not specified; all present members voted in favor). The board found the variance to be not substantial and consistent with surrounding land use. - Minutes of June 18, 2026: Not approved because only three board members were present, short of the required quorum of four. The meeting adjourned without action on minutes.

The Peelskill Planning Commission convened on August 11, 2026, at 7:30 PM in the Common Council Chamber to address a ZBA referral, renewal of approvals, a new public hearing, continued public hearings, a SEQRA determination for a major affordable housing project, and a continued public hearing on a floating solar array. The meeting featured extensive discussion on environmental mitigations and design concerns, as well as public testimony opposing the solar project. Consent Calendar - ZBA Referral (935 Lockwood Drive): The Commission voted unanimously to refer an area variance request to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding off‑street parking and maneuvering for a proposed driveway extension. No board member comment. - Renewal of Approvals (108 North Division Street – Steinbeck’s building): The Commission unanimously approved a renewal of site plan approval and associated waivers for the adaptive reuse of the existing structure as a mixed‑use building with 22 upper‑floor dwelling units and ground‑floor/basement commercial space (including the Field Library). The approval extends until September 10, 2027, and confirms no substantive changes to the project; the renewal was needed due to financial delays. Public Comments & Testimony - Dependable Tree Service (1010 Lower South Street) – Public Hearing: No members of the public spoke for or against the project. The Commission closed the hearing and approved the final site plan. - Floating Solar Array (Camp Field Reservoir) – Continued Public Hearing: Two residents spoke in opposition: - Claudia Ramos stated her opposition to the project. - Peter Korch, a 25‑year resident, presented detailed opposition, citing risks of water contamination, microplastics, and the minimal financial benefit to the city ($26,000/year from the lease). He questioned the adequacy of the proposed bond and argued the city would bear cleanup costs. He urged putting the project on a ballot. A list of seven additional opponents (Daniel Carpenter, Kevin Williams, Charles Bayer, Amanda Granados, Phil Alexander Jr., Tiffany Rankin, Pat Bruno) submitted emails opposing the project. Discussion Items - Dependable Tree Service – Final Site Plan Approval: The applicant (represented by Jim Anakarico) described minor changes: a color change to dark gray with white doors, upgraded lighting. No board concerns. The Commission determined the project is a Type II action under SEQRA, consistent with the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program, and granted final site plan approval subject to staff conditions. - 140 Franklin Street – Continued Public Hearing: The project seeks a one‑story addition to a single‑family home. The applicant is working with the city to connect to municipal water/sewer instead of the current septic system. The Commission continued the hearing to October 2026. - 527 Union Avenue – Continued Public Hearing (single‑family home): The applicant’s representative appeared late. The Commission identified multiple inconsistencies between the plans and the rendering (e.g., window alignment, garage doors, lack of retaining wall and landscaping details). The city engineer raised drainage concerns (subsurface chambers may not drain fully). The Commission asked for corrected plans and continued the public hearing. - 418 North Division Street – SEQRA Determination & Project Discussion: - SEQRA Exemption: The Commission unanimously determined the 158‑unit mixed‑use affordable housing project is exempt from SEQRA under the state’s new “Certain housing projects in municipalities outside of New York City” law (ECL § 8‑0111). The project meets all criteria: connected to public water/sewer, previously disturbed site, <20% non‑residential use, <300 units, not a single‑family development. - Project Design & Affordable Housing Debate: The applicant team (Joseph Thompson, Brian Newman, Jay Martino) presented updated plans, including a relocated garage entrance on Constant Avenue (aligned with Harrison Street), a 2,000‑sq‑ft community center, enlarged tenant storage, shadow and traffic studies (presentation deferred), and detailed landscaping/rooftop designs. Board members raised concerns: - Massing & Streetscape: Vic and Ruth expressed that the building’s scale is too large for the residential neighborhood; they urged breaking up the façade with different materials, colors, and fenestration to resemble a series of smaller buildings. - Affordable vs. Market‑Rate: Vic and Ruth argued that the city has already approved many affordable units, some stuck due to funding, and that a market‑rate component would generate more tax revenue and balance the community. Jeff and Carol strongly supported 100% affordability, noting that 80% AMI is essentially workforce housing and that Peelskill needs more such units to retain young families and retirees. - Ground Floor Use: The Commission debated the proposed maker/artist spaces, questioning viability. Alternatives such as a community art‑education center or flexible retail were suggested. - Traffic & Shadow Studies: Deferred to the next meeting. The applicant’s traffic engineer was present but did not present; the Commission will review the studies in advance. - Brownfield Cleanup: The project qualifies for the Brownfield Cleanup Program; all contaminated material will be removed to achieve Track 1 certification. - Floating Solar Array – Mitigation Discussion: - The applicant (Working Power, represented by Joel Anastasia and Julian Zapera) and the city’s consultant (Matt Yonkin, Arcadis) outlined proposed mitigations for the 1.4‑MW system on the drinking water reservoir: - Replacement/refurbishment of three existing valves to allow isolation of the large reservoir. - Installation of stopgates at the culvert connecting the large and small basins. - Construction of a new pipeline from the emergency supply (MID pipeline) to the small reservoir to provide storage and operational flexibility. - 24‑hour water quality monitoring and a decommissioning bond. - Ongoing discussion on copper sulfate treatment for algae under the panels; the applicant is reviewing data from the water department. - Board members expressed that the mitigations are moving in the right direction but need detailed cost estimates and clarity on who bears costs (city vs. applicant). The applicant stated the project would also provide $1+ million in community solar bill credits to 400 low‑to‑moderate‑income households and $1+ million for food security. Key Outcomes - ZBA Referral: Approved unanimously. - Renewal of Approvals (108 North Division St): Approved unanimously through September 10, 2027. - Dependable Tree Service Final Site Plan: Approved unanimously with conditions. - SEQRA Exemption for 418 North Division Street: Approved unanimously. - 140 Franklin Street: Continued to October 2026. - 527 Union Avenue: Continued; applicant to present corrected, consistent plans. - Floating Solar Array: Public hearing continued; applicant to return with refined cost estimates and responses to outstanding mitigation questions. - Minutes of May 12 and July 14, 2026: Approved as presented.

The Common Council held a work session on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the Common Council Chamber. The agenda included a financial presentation, several resolutions, and council liaison reports. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session. Deputy Mayor and Councilman Rigor were excused. Consent Calendar - Authorize Intergovernmental Cyber-Security Agreement: The council approved moving forward with an agreement with New York State to enhance cybersecurity services at no cost to the city (estimated value $28,000 over three years). A resolution will be brought back for final approval. - Street Closures: Three street closure requests were discussed and will be brought back as resolutions on August 17: - Virgen del Cisne religious procession (Saturday, September 5, 2026, 5–7 p.m.) - Assumption Church Fair (Wednesday–Sunday, September 26–?; closed 2–10 p.m. weekdays, full days Saturday and Sunday) - Walk/Run to Remember (Friday, September 11, 2026, starting at 8:46 a.m. from Central Firehouse to the riverfront) - Update Personal, Private and Sensitive Information Security Policy: The council approved moving forward with an updated policy to comply with state requirements, with revisions for unionized employees. Resolution to be presented on August 17. - Declare Surplus Equipment: The Fire Department will auction off old and obsolete equipment through Auctions International. - Accept CDBG Grant for Neighborhood Center Elevator Panel: The city accepted a $47,500 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for a $90,000 electrical panel replacement; the city’s match comes from general funds. Resolution on August 17. - T-Mobile Equipment Relocation: The council discussed a $132,068.11 cost for relocating T-Mobile equipment from a decommissioned water tower to an adjacent tower. The city will bear the cost due to the lease terms. A settlement agreement will be finalized. - Local Law Regulating E-bikes and E-devices: The council reviewed a revised local law (amending Chapter 182 and Chapter 416) that sets definitions, age limits (minimum 16), prohibits sidewalk operation, increases penalties for reckless riding, and allows impoundment for underage riders. A public hearing is scheduled for August 17. - Renewal of Peekskill Business Improvement District (BID) Agreement: The council agreed to schedule a public hearing on September 14 for a five-year renewal (September 30, 2026 – September 30, 2031). Public Comments & Testimony - No formal public comment period was held. However, council members relayed concerns from residents and business owners during liaison reports, including issues with parking meter confusion, crosswalk striping, garbage dumping, double parking, and taxi service complaints. Discussion Items - 2nd Quarter 2026 Budget to Actual Variance: Comptroller Toni Tracy presented a review. The projected excess is $3.9 million, which includes $3.9 million in one-time revenue from the 901 Main PILOT and $2.5 million in revenue/expense from a bond and insurance settlement. Removing these one-time items leaves a $55,000 excess. Revenue shortfalls were noted in meter parking (due to non-working meters) and parking fines (addressed by adding an enforcement officer). Expenditure overruns include advanced life support contracts, snow overtime, refuse removal, and employee/police/fire retirement systems (approximately $1 million). Offsetting surpluses in consultants, contingency, and health insurance narrow the gap. - T-Mobile Relocation: City Attorney Eric explained that the old water tower at 138 Benefield Boulevard must be demolished to make way for a new tank funded by a 60% state grant. T-Mobile’s lease (approx. $3,500/month, with extensions through 2035–2040) does not require them to pay for relocation. The council expressed concern about the cost but acknowledged the need to proceed to avoid losing grant funding. - E-bike Law: The council discussed the complexity of the law and thanked staff for finalizing a comprehensive version. Councilwoman Chang requested adding “or roadways” to the definition of where devices can operate. The council also emphasized the need for signage to inform the public about new rules (e.g., no riding on sidewalks, except for children). Key Outcomes - Approved to bring forward resolutions on August 17 for: cybersecurity agreement, street closures, information security policy, surplus equipment declaration, CDBG grant acceptance, and T-Mobile relocation settlement. - Approved to schedule a public hearing on September 14 for the BID renewal. - Approved a public hearing on August 17 for the local law regulating e-bikes and e-devices. - Council direction: City Manager will investigate parking meter signage and crosswalk striping; Police Chief will address taxi service complaints; the council supported allowing city employees to participate in the Walk/Run to Remember with a 30-minute late arrival. - Executive Session: The council voted to enter executive session to discuss matters concerning medical, financial, credit, or employment history, and personnel matters.

The Peekskill Common Council met on July 27, 2026, for a special work session followed by a special council meeting. The agenda included three resolutions: authorizing a street closure for a religious procession, authorizing a WIIA grant application for the Lower South Street Sewer Improvements Project, and authorizing a Greenway Conservancy Trail Grant application for Fort Hill Park. Council members also gave liaison reports. All three resolutions were unanimously approved. The meeting adjourned into executive session for employment and litigation matters. Discussion Items - Street Closure for Religious Procession (El Señor de Girón): City Clerk presented a request from Assumption Church to close portions of Union Avenue on Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 2:30 PM to 3:15 PM for a religious procession. The police reviewed and approved the closure. Council members asked about immediate reopening after the procession, which was confirmed. A resolution was prepared. - WIIA Grant – Lower South Street Sewer Improvements Project: Dave Rambo from the Water Department provided an update. The project cost has escalated from an initial estimate of $3 million to $11,347,000 due to post-COVID costs and a required pipe reroute through Riverfront Park. The city plans to rescind an earlier $750,000 grant and apply for a new Water Infrastructure Improvement Act (WIIA) grant covering 25% of the project cost (approximately $2.8 million) with a 75% city match. The match will be offset by other grant applications. The grant application was due by 4:00 PM on July 27. A resolution authorized the city manager to submit the application. - Hudson River Valley Greenway Conservancy Trail Grant: The city manager explained the city’s eligibility for grants: $50,000 for feasibility study, $75,000 for engineering services, or $250,000 for implementation. The city applied for a $75,000 engineering study for a trail expansion at Fort Hill Park. This could lead to a future $250,000 implementation grant application. The grant deadline was August 7, 2026. - Liaison Reports: Councilwoman Chang reported on attending the NACP National Convention in Chicago and meeting a representative from the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Heritage Byway project. The byway is in phase two, and a public meeting in Peekskill had low turnout. She encouraged residents to visit tubmanbywayny.org to provide feedback and submit letters of support. Councilwoman Talbot noted the Paramount Theatre facade restoration is progressing well. Other council members had no reports. Key Outcomes - Resolution J1 (Authorize Street Closure): Unanimously approved. The closure will be on August 2, 2026, from 1:30 PM until the procession passes specified intersections on Union Avenue. - Resolution J2 (Authorize WIIA Grant Application): Unanimously approved. The city manager is authorized to submit the application for the Lower South Street Sewer Improvements Project. - Resolution J3 (Authorize Greenway Trail Grant Application): Unanimously approved. The city manager is authorized to submit an application for a $75,000 engineering study for Fort Hill Park Trail Expansion. - Executive Session: The council voted to enter executive session to discuss employment and litigation matters.

The Historic & Landmarks Preservation Board met on July 23, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in the Common Council Chamber. The board considered three applications: two signage requests (922 Main Street and 900 Main Street) and one facade restoration at 13 S. Division Street. The meeting was adjourned with the next meeting scheduled for August 27, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the draft minutes from the June 25, 2026, meeting. Motion approved by voice vote (all in favor). Discussion Items - Signage Application – 922 Main Street (Peekskill Immigration Attorney): Applicant Esteban Baquero (Signs Ink, representing Segreto Law Offices PC) proposed a hanging sign (18”x24”, carved PVC, gold/black) and window lettering (gold vinyl with black drop shadow, 10% coverage per window, 2.3 sq ft each). The board expressed concern about the script font (“attorney”) being difficult to read and out of character with the classic downtown aesthetic. The applicant agreed to revise the font to match the clean font used for “Peekskill Immigration” for both the hanging sign and window lettering, and to email the updated design without needing to reappear. No signage on the facade was planned due to budget, but the applicant acknowledged future facade signage would require a new application. - Signage Application – 900 Main Street (Dramatic Hall): Applicant Signs Ink (on behalf of owner Gabriel Arango) proposed replacing the existing “Peekskill Central Market” corner pylon sign (27 sq ft) with a new “Dramatic Hall” sign (24 sq ft, aluminum, stencil-cut face, internally illuminated with 3000K soft white LED, mounted on existing brackets). All existing building signage (including “Dramatic Hall” above entrance, “circa 1838”, and other signs) would be refurbished and repainted to match the new color palette (black with gold/white lettering). The applicant agreed to also update the Dramatic Hall sign on the Nelson Avenue side and address unauthorized window signage in the restaurant tenant’s windows (encouraged to bring into compliance). A typo (“vendors” with an “e” instead of “o”) was noted for correction. - Facade Application – 13 S. Division Street (Fern Tree): Applicant LaFern Joseph and designer Richard Villaberra proposed restoration: repaint upper facade (brick, cornice, windowsills), remove failing black back-painted glass and acrylic panels, replace with painted MDO panels, and repair rotting wood and failing trim. The existing “Fern Tree” sign would be cleaned and remounted using new unistrut brackets. The board strongly encouraged exposing the original brick (instead of repainting) and considering a mural on the brick (possibly featuring Harriet Tubman) to celebrate the business’s 32-year history, reduce long-term maintenance, and align with historic guidelines. The applicant expressed budget constraints but agreed to explore the alternative. The board tabled the application to the August 27, 2026, meeting for a revised proposal (materials due by August 20). No additional fee required for the revision. Key Outcomes - 922 Main Street: Certificate of Appropriateness approved unanimously with condition that the applicant revises the script font to match the clean font on both the hanging sign and window lettering (design to be emailed to staff). - 900 Main Street: Certificate of Appropriateness approved unanimously with conditions: - Updated drawings reflecting all building signage (including Nelson Avenue side) and repainted color palette must be submitted. - Encouraged tenant window signage be brought into compliance. - Typo “vendors” corrected to “vendors” in final drawings. - 13 S. Division Street: Application tabled to August 27, 2026, meeting. Board requested a revised proposal exploring exposing the original brick (no paint/sealant on brick) and possibly a mural, with consideration of budget. Applicant may return with an amendment without a new fee. The project timeline remains open pending discovery after removal of panels.