Red Hook public meetings in 2022

Red Church Cemetery

This is a year-end report for the Red Church Cemetery, not a meeting agenda. It covers 2022 maintenance activities, including mowing, monument repairs, and equipment upkeep. Fuel costs rose significantly despite lower consumption. A list of 2023 projects and a wish list for electrical service and handicapped access are included.

• Fuel consumption: 200.30 gallons in 2022 at $712.12, vs 250 gallons at $586.63 in 2021
• 15+ monuments repaired and reset in 2022 using tripod lift
• Aluminum fence along Route 9G damaged by deer and thrown bottles; repairs ongoing
• Electrical service to Red Church estimated at $3,000+; RFP required
• 2023 projects include stump removal, gravestone repair, painting west and south sides of church

The report details 2022 maintenance activities, including monument repairs, fuel costs, and building upkeep. It outlines a project list for 2023 and a wish list for electrical and accessibility upgrades to the church.

• Repaired and reset 15+ monuments using a tripod lift
• Painted the north side of the Red Church and its shutters
• Installed six bluebird boxes on April 20
• Secured agreement from Dennis Loveland on November 19 for winter snow plowing
• Sanded and painted all plot railings in black enamel
• Repaired, prepped, and painted the cast iron fence south of the maintenance building

(2) Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a special use permit and site plan for a roof-mounted solar array at Bard College. A request for a Certificate of Appropriateness for renovations at 89 Eden Knoll was denied. A public hearing for a lot line alteration on Albany Post Rd was scheduled for February 6, 2023.

• Approved Bard College Stevenson Athletic Center roof solar array Special Use Permit and Site Plan (unanimous)
• Denied Certificate of Appropriateness for 89 Eden Knoll historic structure relocation and garage construction (3-2)
• Scheduled public hearing for Albany Post Rd lot line alteration for February 6, 2023

(1) Town Board

The Town Board approved the addition of one full-time equivalent position to the Highway Department. The Board also appointed several members and a chairperson to the Community Preservation Fund Committee.

• Approved Resolution No. 85 to add one full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) MEO position to the Highway Department effective January 2, 2023 (3-0)
• Appointed Ken Migliorelli, Mary Ann Johnson, and Brent Kovalchik to the Community Preservation Fund Committee for terms expiring December 31, 2025 (3-0)
• Appointed Emily Majer and Chris Klose to the Community Preservation Fund Committee for terms expiring December 31, 2023 (3-0)
• Appointed Mary Ann Johnson as Chairperson of the Community Preservation Fund Committee for a term expiring December 31, 2023 (3-0)

(1) Town Board

The Town Board approved the solicitation of public bids for two electric vans to transport senior citizens and mobility-challenged individuals. The board also authorized a contract rider for public access cable services and accepted security for improvements at Sycamore Estates.

• Authorized public bids for two electric vans for senior and mobility transport (4-0)
• Approved execution of a rider to the Intermunicipal Cooperation Agreement with PANDA (4-0)
• Authorized acceptance of a $15,000 surety bond for Sycamore Estates improvements (4-0)
• Appointed Steve Appenzeller to the Assessment Review Board for a term ending in 2027 (4-0)
• Set 2023 Director of Parks & Recreation salary to $46,901.00 (4-0)
• Set 2023 Town bookkeeper salary to $65,932.00 (4-0)
• Accepted Supervisor's Report and Budget Adjustments (4-0)
• Accepted Town Clerk's Report (4-0)

(1) Town Board

The Town Board approved the submission of a Fiscal Year 2023 Dutchess County Community Development Block Grant application. The funds are intended to improve accessibility by installing a lift at St. Margaret’s Cultural Arts Center.

• Approved Resolution No. 81 to apply for a $100,000 grant for a lift at St. Margaret’s Cultural Arts Center (5-0)
• Closed Public Hearing for CDBG 2023 Application (5-0)
• Entered Executive Session to discuss personnel matters (5-0)
• Exited Executive Session (5-0)

(2) Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a four-foot side yard setback for a home at Traditions at Red Hook and granted a Certificate of Appropriateness for a pool and spa at 1018 River Rd. The Board also approved a $15,000 estimated cost for driveway improvements at Sycamore Estates and granted a six-month extension to Shafer's Hudson Valley.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for pool and spa at 1018 River Rd (All in favor)
• Extended public hearing for Bard College Montgomery Place Path to Jan 3, 2023
• Declared Planning Board as Lead Agency for Bard College Ground Mounted Solar Array (All in favor)
• Approved four-foot side yard setback for Lot 38 of Traditions at Red Hook (All in favor)
• Approved $15,000 estimated cost for Sycamore Estates shared driveway improvements (All in favor)
• Approved 6-month extension for Shafer's Hudson Valley to April 19, 2023 (All in favor)
• Approved meeting minutes of November 7, 2022 (All in favor)

(1) Town Board

The Red Hook Town Board is holding a special meeting to consider two items: a resolution to set a public hearing for the FY 2023 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application, and an amended resolution regarding Bridge NY project funding. No other business is scheduled.

• Resolution to set public hearing for FY 2023 CDBG application
• Amended Bridge NY project funding resolution

The Town Board approved funding for preliminary engineering and right-of-way work for the Red Hook Saw Kill Road Bridge Replacement. The Board also scheduled a public hearing for a 2023 Community Development Block Grant application. Additionally, the Board authorized the Town Supervisor to handle specific personnel matters following an executive session.

• Approved $267,000 from Unappropriated Reserve B Fund for Saw Kill Road Bridge Replacement preliminary work (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for December 7, 2022, regarding 2023 Community Development Block Grant application (5-0)
• Authorized Town Supervisor to work with Highway Superintendent on personnel matters (4-0)

Economic Development Committee

The committee discussed marketing strategies centered on rural heritage and farm tours. Members reached a consensus to invite Dutchess County Tourism to the first meeting of 2023. The committee also reviewed updates regarding the Red Hook Area Chamber of Commerce.

• Approved meeting minutes of 11-09-2022 (unanimous)
• Consensus to invite Dutchess County Tourism to the January 11, 2023 meeting

St. Margaret's Committee

The St. Margaret's Home Committee is receiving the 2022 property report from the Recreation Commission, detailing maintenance work, hours, and costs. The report covers mowing, trimming, tree removal, equipment servicing, and building upkeep through November 20, 2022. It notes 122 total maintenance hours, $1,320 in paid staff wages, and $646.98 in equipment and fuel costs. The report also discusses Red Hook Public Library's summer use of the building, a septic system easement issue, and recommends removing three locust trees near Route 9.

• 122 total maintenance hours at St. Margaret's Home in 2022, with 66 paid hours at $20/hour totaling $1,320
• $646.98 in equipment and fuel costs, including diesel and gasoline, mower blades, and maintenance kits
• Red Hook Public Library ran a children's activity program on the porch and first floor during July and August
• Septic system leech field located on Hannaford property; easement for access is being pursued
• Three locust trees on south end bordering Route 9 recommended for removal due to safety concerns

The Recreation Commission submitted a 2022 property report for St. Margaret’s Home detailing maintenance hours, equipment costs, and site conditions. The document records labor and expenses but does not list any formal board votes or new policy decisions.

• Reported 122 total maintenance hours spent at site in 2022
• Reported $1,320.00 in paid hours to Park Staff
• Reported $646.98 in equipment maintenance and fuel costs
• Reported $88.00 for annual fire extinguisher inspection
• Secured cistern covers with bolts as a temporary safety solution
• Confirmed Red Hook Public Library used the building for children's programs in July and August

(2) Planning Board

The November 21, 2022, meeting was cancelled due to a lack of quorum. No substantive decisions were made.

(1) Town Board

The Red Hook Town Board will hold public hearings on a Spectrum franchise agreement and fire contracts, then consider resolutions including police services rates for 2023, a fire protection district, and a water systems operator contract. A discussion on the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) final report and SEQRA is also scheduled.

The Town Board approved funding for the Saw Kill Road Bridge replacement and renewed fire service agreements for 2023 and 2024. The Board also authorized a franchise renewal with Spectrum Northeast, LLC and renewed a water system operator contract.

• Approved Fire Service Agreements with Village of Red Hook, Red Hook Fire Company, Inc., and Village of Tivoli for 2023-2024 (4-0)
• Appropriated $84,390 from Unappropriated Reserve B Fund for Aspinwall Bridge replacement (4-0)
• Authorized negotiations for professional engineering services for Saw Kill Road Bridge project (4-0)
• Approved franchise renewal agreement with Spectrum Northeast, LLC (4-0)
• Renewed professional services agreement with C3ND Environmental Consulting, LLC for Water District No. 1 (4-0)
• Established Town as Lead Agency for Type I Action regarding updated Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (4-0)
• Approved Supervisor's and Town Clerk's reports for October 2022 (4-0)
• Cancelled Town Board meetings for November 23 and December 28, 2022 (4-0)

Tree Preservation Commission

The Commission approved the minutes from the September 20, 2022 meeting. Members discussed the completion of fall tree plantings and the status of the annual budget.

• Approved September 20, 2022 meeting minutes

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Director provided a status report on winterization efforts and facility maintenance. The commission noted the completion of the pavilion ceiling and painting, and scheduled phase two of skate park improvements for December.

• Completed pavilion ceiling and painting for $9,813.16
• Scheduled Phase Two skate park equipment installation for December
• Closed park restrooms and turned off court lights for the season
• Planned installation of Mutt Mitt dispenser and garbage can at Fir Street Blue Trail

Economic Development Committee

The committee approved the meeting minutes from October 26, 2022. Members discussed sustainability goals, window upgrade ideas for Williams Hardware, and business lighting. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved October 26, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Conservation Advisory Council

The Conservation Advisory Council discussed extending the compost program through winter, reviewed survey results showing 23% response rate with high satisfaction, and considered outreach improvements. They also reviewed the recent Repair Cafe event and discussed future collaborations with Bard College. Other topics included e-waste collection, solar array site review, and transportation needs for seniors.

• Compost program extended at Recycling Center through winter; 90% of compost taken over 3 weeks
• Survey: 13 responses, 63% switched from throwing food scraps in trash, all plan to continue through winter
• Repair Cafe Nov 5 had much larger turnout than April; next event planned for January
• Planning Board public hearing on solar array at Clermont for site review and forestation
• CAC budget of $700 discussed for more compost buckets and signage

The council approved the October meeting minutes. Members discussed the success of the composting program and the November 5 Repair Cafe, and reviewed potential grants for electric mowers and climate projects.

• Approved October meeting minutes

(2) Planning Board

The Planning Board approved a solar energy system at 245 Woods Road and granted permits for a cottage at 68 Pitcher Ln and renovations at 1098 River Rd. Public hearings for a Bard College pedestrian path and a lot line alteration were extended for further review.

• Approved Special Use Permit for 648 sq ft cottage at 68 Pitcher Ln
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for renovations at 1098 River Rd (4-1-0)
• Approved Site Plan and Special Use Permit for solar array at 245 Woods Road (4-1)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for solar array at 245 Woods Road (4-1)
• Extended public hearing for 8059-8053-8049 Albany Post Rd lot line alteration to Dec 5, 2022
• Extended public hearing for Bard College pedestrian path to Nov 21, 2022
• Referred Bard College ground mounted solar array to DEC, Design Review Committee, and Dutchess County
• Scheduled public hearing for 1018 River Rd pool construction for Dec 5, 2022

(1) Town Board

The Red Hook Town Board is holding a public hearing on the FY 2023 Preliminary Budget at this special meeting. A 15-minute public comment period is also scheduled. The board will discuss the budget and any additional agenda documents or public correspondence.

• Public Hearing on the 2023 Preliminary Budget
• Public Comment Period – 15 minutes
• Discussion of FY 2023 Preliminary Budget

The Town Board held a public hearing to review the 2023 preliminary budget, which includes tax changes and grant monies. Following public comment regarding the budget and the Town Supervisor's salary, the Board voted to adopt the budget.

• Closed the Public Hearing on the 2023 Preliminary Budget (5-0)
• Adopted the 2023 Budget (4-0, Supervisor McKeon abstained)

Ethics Board

The Board approved the meeting minutes from July 19, 2022. Members discussed the 18-slide annual training presentation for Red Hook employees, including plans for in-person and Zoom sessions.

• Approved July 19, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Economic Development Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the October 12, 2022, meeting. Members discussed the status of a Community Block Development Grant and the revision of the 1993 Comprehensive Plan. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes of 10-12-2022 (unanimous)

(1) Town Board

The Red Hook Town Board will hold a public hearing on the Spectrum contract renewal and consider resolutions including a procurement agreement with Dutchess County, a utility easement with RSB, a change order for fast chargers, and a contract with the SPCA. The board will also discuss the Petal Creek zoning amendment application.

• Public hearing on Spectrum contract renewal at 7:35 PM
• Resolution to extend procurement IMA with Dutchess County
• Resolution to approve utility easement with RSB
• Resolution to approve change order for fast chargers
• Discussion of Petal Creek zoning amendment application

The Town Board authorized a change order for fast charging pedestals and a utility easement with Rhinebeck Bank to support the installation. The Board also approved a 2023 dog control agreement with the Dutchess County SPCA and extended a purchasing agreement with Dutchess County.

• Approved extension of Intermunicipal Agreement with Dutchess County for central purchasing services through Oct 31, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved permanent utility easement from Rhinebeck Bank for electric vehicle charging station lines (4-0)
• Approved $29,893.43 change order for fast charging pedestals, bringing total contract to $181,069.43 (4-0)
• Approved Dog Control and Housing Services Agreement with Dutchess County SPCA for 2023 (4-0)
• Extended Reg Spectrum Franchise Contract Renewal public hearing to November 16, 2022 (4-0)
• Appointed Phillip A. McDougall to the Water Board for a term expiring December 31, 2022 (4-0)

Tree Preservation Commission

The commission reviewed preparations for a tree planting event at Rec Park West scheduled for October 29th. Members also discussed upcoming community sustainability events and continuing education sessions regarding tree management.

• 16 trees to be delivered October 26th for planting at Rec Park West
• Tree planting event scheduled for Saturday, October 29th at 9:30 am
• Continuing education Zoom sessions offered by Nassau County Cornell Cooperative Extension ($40 per session or $225 for six)
• Community and Sustainability Event at Greig Farm on October 20th

(1) Town Board

The Town Board adopted a resolution setting a public hearing for the 2023 preliminary budget on November 2, 2022, and approved a salary of $58,466 for the Supervisor position. The board also discussed making the Supervisor role full-time with benefits. A public hearing on the Fire Protection Services Agreement was rescheduled to November 16, 2022.

• Public hearing for 2023 preliminary budget set for November 2, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.
• Supervisor salary set at $58,466; board discussed making position full-time with benefits
• Town Board meeting rescheduled from November 8 to November 16, 2022 due to election day conflict
• Fire Protection Services Agreement public hearing rescheduled to November 16, 2022 at 7:35 p.m.
• Tentative budget moved to preliminary budget

Conservation Advisory Council

The Council discussed next steps for the compost pilot program, including potential expansion to businesses. Members also discussed updating local laws to support agrivoltaics and solar siting on agricultural land.

• Compost pilot program update: truck bringing compost to Recycling Center on Oct 17
• Discussion of refrigerant reclamation purity requirements and disposal fees
• Proposed updates to zoning laws to accommodate agrivoltaics
• Planning for upcoming Repair Cafe event on Nov 5

(1) Town Board

The Red Hook Town Board will meet to discuss the tentative budget for fiscal year 2023. The board is also considering legal agreements and bids for highway materials.

• FY 2023 Tentative Budget
• Joule Legal Agreement
• NYS Environmental Bond Act support resolution
• Bids for highway materials
• Public hearing for fire contracts

(1) Town Board

The Town Board met to receive the 2023 Tentative Budget presented by Town Clerk Deanna Cochran. The board scheduled a Budget Workshop for October 13, 2022.

• Receipt of 2023 Tentative Budget
• Budget Workshop scheduled for October 13, 2022, at 7:30pm

(1) Town Board

The Town Board will hold a public hearing regarding a franchise agreement with Spectrum Northeast, LLC. The special meeting agenda also includes discussions on snow removal contracting and an extension of the facilities agreement with RHCSD.

• Public Hearing: Spectrum Franchise Agreement
• Resolution to Support NYS Environmental Bond Act
• Resolution to Approve Extension of Facilities Agreement with RHCSD
• Discussion regarding snow removal contracting

Tree Preservation Commission

The commission reviewed previous minutes and discussed the status of a Tree City sign and tree inventory data collection. Members also coordinated fall planting details for Rec Park West.

• Order of 16 trees from Schichtel’s Nursery for $2,266
• Fall planting order including 3 Aesculus X. ‘Autumn Splendor’ at $140 each
• Fall planting order including 3 Celtis Occidentalis at $125 each
• Fall planting order including 3 Crataegus V. ‘Winter King’ at $117 each
• Delivery charge of $500 for tree nursery order

Conservation Advisory Council

The council reviewed composting data and discussed a potential pollinator and solar project at Bard. Members also discussed an anaerobic digester pilot project and a grant for electric mowers.

• Compost program processed 1,040 lbs in August
• Pollinator project grant due 9/30 for a corn field at Bard
• Anaerobic Digester pilot project arriving at Bard
• Potential Cornell Climate Smart Steward award for electric mowers for Summer 2023
• Review of Drinking Water Source Protection Program (DWSP2) documents

(1) Town Board

The Red Hook Town Board will meet to consider resolutions regarding amendments to a collective bargaining agreement. The board will also review a draft engineering study concerning Forest Park drainage.

• Resolutions to approve amendments to Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Draft Engineering Study for Forest Park Drainage

(1) Town Board

The Town Board held a public hearing to discuss improvements to Water District No. 1. The proposal involves replacing the existing standpipe at the Kelly Road water storage site with a new glass fused steel standpipe.

• Proposed water storage tank replacement at Kelly Road with an estimated maximum cost of $3,956,800
• Plan to use $300,000 from the Water District’s existing SW Reserve Fund
• Proposal to apply for a Water Infrastructure Improvement Grant
• Resolution to amend 284 Agreement regarding road improvements

(1) Town Board

The Red Hook Town Board will conduct public hearings regarding a Spectrum contract and Local Law C concerning truck routes. The board will also consider resolutions for highway material bidding and the sale of surplus equipment.

• Public hearing on Spectrum contract
• Public hearing and discussion on Local Law C: Truck Routes
• Resolution authorizing public bidding for highway materials
• Resolution authorizing the sale of surplus equipment
• Presentation on Audubon Sustainability Project

(1) Town Board

The Town Board is scheduling a public hearing for September 6, 2022, to discuss improvements to Water District No. 1. The board will consider replacing a water standpipe and determine if town zoning laws apply to the project.

• Proposed replacement of the existing standpipe at the Kelly Road water storage site
• Estimated maximum project cost of $3,956,800
• Proposed use of $300,000 from the Water District’s SW Reserve Fund
• Application for a Water Infrastructure Improvement Grant to cover remaining costs
• Public hearing scheduled for September 6, 2022, at 7:30 p.m.

(1) Town Board

The Town Board will hold a special meeting to consider two resolutions. These include a performance bond reduction for Phase 4 and 5 of the 'Tradition' project and setting a public hearing regarding a water storage tank replacement grant application.

• Resolution to approve Performance Bond Reduction – Phase 4 & 5 'Tradition'
• Resolution to set Public Hearing: Water Storage Tank Replacement – Grant Application

Tree Preservation Commission

The commission discussed updating the physical tree inventory starting with Pitcher Lane and reviewed the status of tree watering efforts. Members also discussed potential locations for new plantings and upcoming fall tree orders.

• Discussion of a tree inventory update starting on Pitcher Lane
• Review of tree watering status at Pitcher Lane and Rec Park West
• Approval of Eleanor Friery's resignation
• Discussion of a fall tree order with a budget of under $4,000
• Proposed planting of a white oak at Rec Park West

Conservation Advisory Council

The council is discussing how to provide residents with information on Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) clean energy incentives. Members are also reviewing a two-year grant timeline for greenhouse gas inventories and climate action planning.

• Repair Cafe event scheduled for October 1
• Mapping tool training with Cornell Cooperative Dutchess County on September 10
• Proposed IRA resource event at Hardscrabble on September 17
• R2D2 refrigerant recovery program updates
• Review of Climate Smart Communities (CSC) support timeline through Fall 2023-24

(1) Town Board

The Town Board will conduct a public hearing regarding the renewal of the Spectrum contract. Members will also discuss the Housing Committee and an update to the employee handbook.

• Public hearing on Spectrum Contract Renewal
• Resolution to set public hearing for Local Law C regarding truck routes and weight limits
• Discussion on Housing Committee
• Employee Handbook update

Tree Preservation Commission

The Tree Preservation Commission reviewed ongoing maintenance of town trees and discussed updating the town's tree inventory. The body also addressed the replacement of missing signs and the potential for student involvement in planting.

• Agreement to purchase a new Tree City sign for approximately $65
• Discussion of a hazardous tree on Rt. 199 east of Elizabeth St. for NYS DOT assessment
• Proposal to update the Tree Inventory using a potential NYS computer program
• Discussion of landscaping and signage for the entrance to Rec Park West
• Introduction of Alisha Riempa as a new board member candidate

(1) Town Board

The Town Board will review several grant applications regarding energy, water quality, and planning. The meeting also includes a public hearing for the Spectrum contract renewal.

• Public Hearing: Spectrum Contract Renewal
• Clean Energy Communities Grant Wrap Up Presentation
• Resolution to Apply For WQIP Grant – replacement salt shed
• Resolution to Apply For LGE Shared Services – Sewer Extension
• Resolution to Apply For Smart Growth Planning Grant – Comp Plan Update

(1) Town Board

The Red Hook Town Board will meet to discuss resolutions concerning Tradition Section 7 and a public access easement. The board will also consider applying for a Food Insecurity Program grant under the Covid Cares Act 2020.

• Resolution regarding Tradition Section 7
• Resolution amending Resolution #58 of 2021 regarding public access easement – Tradition
• Resolution to apply for Food Insecurity Program – Covid Cares Act 2020
• Discussion regarding grants
• Discussion regarding Housing Committee

Tree Preservation Commission

The Commission reviewed a proposal for the Mill Road School involving the removal of two crabapple trees and four sugar maples, along with pruning of other trees. The body also discussed updating the town tree inventory and replacing a missing Tree City sign.

• Proposal to remove 2 crabapple trees and 4 sugar maples at Mill Road School
• Motion approved to purchase two new signs, including a replacement Tree City sign
• Report on Arbor Day Poster Contest with approximately 400 student participants
• Discussion on replacing a dead Katsura tree for Nancy Guski
• Update on tree plantings at the high school, Pitcher Lane, and Rec Park West

(1) Town Board

The Red Hook Town Board will conduct a public hearing regarding a Spectrum Agreement. The board will also discuss housing needs and grant opportunities, and consider resolutions for COVID Cares Act funding and OML policy.

• Public hearing on Spectrum Agreement
• Resolution to apply for COVID Cares Act funding
• Resolution to approve OML policy
• Discussion on housing needs
• Discussion on CFA Grant opportunities

Conservation Advisory Council

The council reviewed updates on the food waste composting program and the Repair Cafe. Members discussed the Red Hook Central School capital project's use of fossil fuels for HVAC equipment and the status of the county Natural Resource Inventory update.

• Food waste composting program tracking by Ozoine
• Red Hook Central School HVAC equipment replacement project
• Cornell Cooperative Extension Natural Resource Inventory survey
• Climate Smart Community public comment period extended to July 1, 2022
• Drinking Water Source Protection Program (DWSP2) mapping

Greenway & Trails Committee

The committee is preparing for a ribbon cutting at the Winnakee trail on June 4. Members are also planning a meeting to discuss trail maintenance and signage, as well as a cleanup of Father's Trail.

• Winnakee trail Ribbon Cutting scheduled for June 4
• Proposed meeting between Winnakee and Town regarding maintenance and signage
• Father's Trail cleanup requiring liability coverage confirmation

(1) Town Board

The Town Board will conduct public hearings regarding Cold War Veteran's exemption extensions and updated remote meetings laws. The agenda includes several resolutions concerning road names, service contracts, and state-level legislative actions.

• Public hearing: Extension of Cold War Veteran’s Exemption
• Public hearing: Updated Remote Meetings Law
• Resolution to accept private road name: Old Sycamore Lane
• Draft agreement for public hearing regarding Charter Communications
• Resolution to extend contract for mapping consultant

Energy Committee

The committee discussed membership structures, refrigerant removal processes, and the economic benefits of electric heat pumps over fuel oil and propane. Members also reviewed potential energy savings from dimming highway lights and plans for installing charging station equipment.

• Refrigerant recovery: 2 pounds of 410A recovered at last session
• Heat pump comparison: 2,200 square foot house using propane emits 4.6 metric tons cCO2/year
• Highway light dimming: Proposal to reduce brightness from 100% to 80% or 75% between midnight and 5am
• School bus fuel usage: Red Hook Central School District uses 155,000 gallons of diesel per year

Tree Preservation Commission

The commission discussed replacing five old crab apple trees at Mill Road School and evaluated the success of recent Arbor Day activities. Members also reviewed the current budget and potential new planting sites for the fall.

• Proposed removal and replacement of 5 crab apple trees at Mill Road School
• Reported $408 total revenue from Arbor Day bluebird house and seedling sales
• Confirmed remaining budget of approximately $4,000
• Discussion of a potential partnership with a Village pollinator project
• Review of new collapsible watering bag system for tree maintenance

Conservation Advisory Council

The Council discussed updating the 2012 Climate Action Plan and reviewed recent waste management events. Members also discussed school district solar and busing projects and pollinator planting initiatives.

• Unanimous recommendation that Town Board pass a resolution in support of the CLCPA
• Proposed ~1MW solar project across three school buildings
• Review of materials management events: Repair Cafe, E-waste Day, Compost Pilot, Clean Up Day, and Paper Shred Day
• Discussion of native pollinator planting at Town Hall following septic construction
• Planning Board code changes regarding Battery Energy Storage, Solar Updates/Agrivoltaics, and Stretch Energy Code

(1) Town Board

The Town Board will hear presentations regarding the RHCSD budget and co-location solar. The agenda includes several resolutions for public hearings and contract awards.

• RHCSD Budget Presentation
• Co-location Solar Presentation
• Public hearing: Cold War Veterans Exemption Extension
• Public hearing: Local Law updating remote meetings
• Resolution to award paving bid

Greenway & Trails Committee

The committee is coordinating events for Trails Day on June 4, including a ribbon cutting for the Winnakee trail. The body is also discussing safety feature work on Linden Avenue.

• Winnakee trail ribbon cutting on June 4
• Proposed June 4 activities: youth nature walk, leave no trace, bird talk/walk, and ultimate frisbee demo
• Coordination between town engineer and county regarding Linden Avenue safety feature work

(1) Town Board

The Town Board will discuss a CDBG COVID Cares Grant and a Culvert Maintenance Plan. The agenda includes several resolutions regarding police agreements, court audits, and generator projects.

• Public hearing for CDBG COVID Cares Grant
• Project introduction: Culvert Maintenance Plan
• Resolution: Public Bid Generator Projects
• Resolution to Approve Amended Police Agreement
• Resolution to Approve Justice Court Audits

(1) Town Board

The Town Board held a special meeting to conduct a public hearing regarding the CDBG-CV Cares Grant. The town is submitting an application specifically for the Farmworkers Housing Grant to fund various farm employee housing and utility projects.

• Public Hearing of CDBG-CV Cares Grant
• Funding for weatherizing and air quality at Mead Orchards
• Mobile home replacement and repairs at Rose Hill Farm
• Utility upgrades and repairs at Greig Farm
• $50,000.00 allocation for a Project Manager

Greenway & Trails Committee

The committee is planning community events for the Apple Blossom Festival and National Trails Day. Members are also coordinating crosswalk painting and signage updates on Linden Avenue.

• Apple Blossom Festival event preparation
• National Trails Day trail walk planning
• Linden Avenue signage and crosswalk coordination
• Maizeland crossing refreshes
• NYSDOT follow-up regarding 9G Kelly Road and Rt 199 sharrows

(1) Town Board

The Town Board will conduct a public hearing regarding FY 2022 Water District rates. The agenda also includes resolutions for contracts involving fast chargers and STR Administration, as well as discussions on CDBG COVID grant opportunities.

• Public Hearing: Water District rate – FY 2022
• Resolution to Award Contract – Fast Chargers
• Resolution to Award Contract – STR Administration
• Resolution to Accept Roads and Easements – Tradition Phase 6
• Discussion: CDBG COVID grant opportunities

Energy Committee

The committee is planning a Cool Refrigerant Recovery Pilot and evaluating the use of air-to-water heat pumps at the Highway Garage. Members discussed a proposal to ban fossil fuel hookups in new construction and replacements. The body also reviewed solar zoning and anaerobic digestion.

• Cool Refrigerant Recovery Pilot including a proposed $7,000 shed
• Proposal to ban fossil fuel hookups for heating in all new construction
• Evaluation of air-to-water heat pump for Highway Garage
• Review of Stretch Energy Code regarding gas hookup bans
• Discussion of a fast charger for the Town

(1) Town Board

The Town Board will review the 2021 Annual Financial Update and consider a resolution to set a public hearing regarding Water District rates. The meeting also includes an organizational segment.

• 2021 Annual Financial Update
• Resolution to Set Public Hearing – Water District rates
• Town Board reorganization

Energy Committee

The Energy Committee discussed the awarding of a fast charger contract and the potential use of ARC GIS software for solar development mapping. The body also reviewed LED lighting project costs and planned a town-wide mailing regarding clean energy alternatives.

• Unanimous vote to recommend Paul Fletcher join the Energy Committee
• Estimated $5,000 cost to replace a pole and fixtures at Echo Valley
• Proposed use of ARC GIS software for solar development mapping with 24 overlays
• Discussion of awarding a fast charger contract via state contract next week
• Planned town-wide mailing on rebates, electric cars, and heat pump conversion

(1) Town Board

The Town Board will meet to discuss a zoning amendment application and a resolution regarding a completion guaranty bond for Tradition. The agenda also includes an update on Hudson Valley Community Power and a resolution to accept a ZEV infrastructure grant award.

• Application for Zoning Amendment
• Resolution to Approve Completion Guaranty Bond - Tradition
• Resolution to Accept ZEV Infrastructure Grant Award
• Hudson Valley Community Power Update

(1) Town Board

The Town Board will meet to discuss an engineering study regarding drainage at Forest Park and a building and fee schedule. The agenda also includes a presentation by Granicus and discussion of reorganization.

• Engineering Study - Drainage Forest Park
• Building and Fee Schedule
• Presentation – Granicus

(1) Town Board

The Red Hook Town Board will meet to award a purchase for a plow truck and approve a contract with the Red Hook Community Center. Members will also review building department fees and a draft application and fee for short-term rentals.

• Purchase of plow truck
• Contract with Red Hook Community Center
• Review of Building Department fees
• Draft STR (Short-Term Rental) application and fee
• Zoning amendment application fee and escrow

(1) Town Board

The Town Board will meet to handle reorganization and administrative renewals. The session includes a public comment period and the authorization of exemption renewals.

• Town Board reorganization
• Resolution to authorize exemption renewals
• Agreement to expend highway moneys (Section 284 HL)
• Association of Towns