July 2, 2021

 

Dear Cornwall-on-Hudson residents, neighbors, and friends:

 

Happy Independence Day on Sunday, the anniversary of our great nation’s democratic experiment. We should all be proud to be American on this day – and every other day. Keep in mind that while fireworks are postponed until next year, the IDC will still hold some 4^th events, to include the Pet Show on Saturday, and Sunday’s parade will begin at 1:00 p.m. -- as opposed to its usual 5:00 p.m. start. Let celebrate our nation and the long-awaited return to some post-pandemic normalcy together as friends and neighbors.

Reminder that July’s work session and business meeting of the Board of Trustees will be conjoined and held on Monday, July 26^th. Our meeting protocol now includes livestreaming, 24/7 availability, on our YouTube channel (link posted at a future date).

If you happen to walk or drive past Village Hall, you might notice the emplacement of our Village seal on the building’s exterior. Photos attached. Let us know what you think.

One of the long-range items I have asked Jeanne Mahoney, our Village Clerk, to tackle is a review of Cornwall-on-Hudson business meeting agendas and minutes dating back to 1885. Our plan is to identify and compile a comprehensive listing of all Village leaders -- Did you know that before the Village had a mayor, there was a president? We must keep track of our history. It is far too easy to forget it and then it becomes lost to the ages.

Here are a few other historical morsels Jeanne uncovered:

1. The Town used to be referred to as “the Upper Village.”

2. In 1897 – taxes were $1.061 per $100.00 (budget was 0.226 for “ordinary   expenses”, 0.375 for “extraordinary expenses”, and 0.46 for “highway.”

3. Also, in 1897, the Village Board entered into a 3-year contract with Cornwall Electric Lighting & Power Co. for 110 street lamps to be placed along “streets, avenues, squares, and public parks”.  Lamps would be lit from “dusk to dawn except on nights and parts of nights where the moon unobstructed by clouds is of sufficient brightness to render artificial light unnecessary.”

4. April of 1899 – The position of Highway & Water Superintendent was established and Adam Jager was appointed to the position.  Later that same month, Supt. Jager was also “authorized to perform police duty”. 

 

Stay tuned for more COH history soon.

James A. “Jimmy” Gagliano

June 18, 2021

 

Dear Cornwall-on-Hudson residents, neighbors, and friends:

Apologies for last week’s radio silence. Was upstate in attendance at annual conference held by the New York State Conference of Mayors (NYCOM). I certainly absorbed a lot of information via technical briefings and presentations, and Lake George was a most stunning location to convene. But, always good to return home to Cornwall-on-Hudson.

Reminder that on this upcoming Monday, June 21st, immediately before the regularly-scheduled business meeting of the Board of Trustees at 7:00 p.m., we will conduct an overdue tribute to the longest-tenured mayor in Village history – Edward C. Moulton, Jr. – by dedicating the Village board room in his honor. Mr. Moulton served COH as mayor for 26 years and was responsible for moving Village Hall into our current facility in 1992.

At Monday’s meeting, the Village Board will also unveil our new state-of-the-art livestream system for remote access to monthly Board meetings. Transparency, ease-in-access are important to us. Here’s YouTube link to view in real time (or go back and watch later) including Moulton dedication ceremony and recognition of Village resident who helped save Dobbs Ferry police officer’s life following stabbing: https://youtu.be/HxY-IGHbmH0

Also, on the Board’s agenda for Monday: Resolution to approve purchase of police body camera system for COHPD officers, announcement of Donahue Farm Steering Committee appointments, Board of Fire Commissioners appointments, MRTA (Marijuana Law) discussion, and Chestnut Street and Mill Street Water Main Replacements update.

Around the Village: Facelift at Village Hall continues – check it out! Sidewalks are being replaced as necessary, within the budget. Selected road re-paving (and pothole repairs) set to commence soonest. Capital Improvement Plan geared towards necessary critical infrastructure repairs under Board consideration and pending an engineer review.

“A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.” -- Anonymous

My very best wishes to all,

James A. “Jimmy” Gagliano

June 4, 2021

Dear Cornwall-on-Hudson residents, neighbors, and friends:

Was truly humbling and awe-inspiring to take in the crowds along the parade route and witness the gathering at the Veterans’ Triangle during Memorial Day observances last Monday. As President Lincoln so eloquently spoke of while honoring the fallen at Gettysburg – our nation owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to the men and women who “gave the last full measure of devotion.” God bless them all and rest their souls.

Reminder that on Saturday, June 5^th, Girls on the Run Hudson Valley Chapter will be holding a small 5K Race which commences at 8:45 a.m. and should conclude around 10:00 a.m. The race begins and ends at COH Elementary School. Would be great if some residents could help cheer the runners on and if motorists proceeded with caution in area.

Per Water Superintendent Michael Trainor: Residents can be kept informed by subscribing to the Village’s messaging system. Simply text to 99411 and enter the keyword COH12520. Enrollment affords you emergency alert notifications, as well as other general use information regarding Village services and other matters requiring public dissemination.

The Village Board will be grappling with a myriad of issues this month; to include provisions of the Marijuana Regulation and Treatment Act, our Short-Term Rental Law, standing-up of the Donahue Farm steering committee, training our police in body cam implementation, livestreaming of our Board Meetings, and a Capital Improvement Plan that seeks to tackle necessary infrastructure repairs and upgrades. We plan to be “live” for our June 21^st Business Meeting (instructions forthcoming on how to observe from a provided link on our website and Facebook page. At that same meeting, former Mayor Edward C. Moulton, Jr. will be honored as the Board Room is dedicated in his name.

Heat wave closing in. Will be in the 90’s all weekend. Stay cool and hydrate if outdoors.

Let’s all be our brother’s and sister’s keepers.

My very best wishes to all,

James A. “Jimmy” Gagliano

May 21, 2021

 

Dear Cornwall-on-Hudson residents, neighbors, and friends:

 

Lots to get to – so, let’s get after it:

Our Summer Playground camp enrollment has final registration opportunity tomorrow at Village Hall between 9:00 a.m. and 11 a.m. Registration open to ALL – not just Villagers.

As we emerge from the pandemic restrictions, please note adjusted public policy at Village Hall: Fully vaccinated folks not required to mask or socially distance. Not-fully vaccinated folks still required to do both while visiting our space.

After careful consideration, the Village Board approved a resolution during its May business meeting to adopt the following structure for our Donahue Farm steering committee: 9 members who will “interface with specialists, public, and other partners, prepare interim reports for VB/public/other stakeholders, and vote on and present final recommended plan to Board.” Interested parties should contact Trustee Bill Braine, who will provide further guidance/direction at [email protected].

COH History-in-the-making: On Thursday, June 10^th at 1:30 p.m., the Cornwall Historical Society and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority will be unveiling a NYS historical marker [see photos] in front of the Cornwall Central School District Office at 24 Idlewild Avenue to honor sorority founder Harriet J. Terry. The office is directly across the street from the building that once housed Cornwall-on-Hudson High School – where Harriet graduated from in 1903. Born and raised in COH, she attended Howard University, a HBCU, where she and fifteen other women founded AKA. Her teaching career spanned 40 years. According to CHS, and paraphrasing her own words, Harriet was the first African-American of the five A-A families residing in COH to graduate from high school. What an incredible legacy and COH is thrilled to have helped to launch such a heroine.

Do something good for someone today and expect nothing in return.

 

My very best wishes to all,

James A. “Jimmy” Gagliano

May 14, 2021

 

Dear Cornwall-on-Hudson residents, neighbors, and friends:

 

Well, closing out my first month-and-a-half in office and must say – I am truly impressed with how well this Village functions and how much the “neighborly spirit” infuses almost every conversation in regards to solution-seeking.

It truly takes a Village.

My second point is pandemic-related. Have you and your family been vaccinated? Know that there are three safe, effective, and free vaccines available for Village residents -- including a vaccine “pod" (point of dispensing) today at Woodbury Common, and easy appointments elsewhere locally. County Executive Steve Neuhaus recommends Village residents check out the County website for more information: https://www.orangecountygov.com/2038/Vaccine. You can also inquire with your doctor, any local pharmacy, or simply call the State Vaccine Hotline at 1-833-697-4829 to find a way that works best for you—even if your schedule or transportation issues make it difficult. In other good news, the CDC just approved Pfizer vaccine for 12-15-year-old youngsters, and appointments are readily available. Even with the cancellation of Riverfest and July 4th fireworks, there’s some light at the end of the tunnel!

Village Board meets for monthly Business Meeting this next Monday, May 17^th. The agenda is available on our website and will include important items such as police body cams, upcoming meetings livestreamed, Donahue Farm steering committee, and planned dedication of Board Room in honor of Village’s 26^th mayor, Edward C. Moulton, Jr., on June 21^st.

Don’t forget the School Budget vote and BOE elections on Tuesday.

Leaving you with early 1900’s photo of Village Hall (now Pepettini) on River Avenue.

Respectfully, James A. “Jimmy” Gagliano

May 7, 2021

 

Dear Cornwall-on-Hudson residents, neighbors, and friends:

 

I am not going to pretend I have anything totally figured out yet. But I am straightening and bending downward the learning curve. Definitely helps to have such a dedicated Village Hall staff and seasoned Village employees.

 

Just one important item I’d like to highlight from this past week:

As promised, the “Village Mayors’ Roundtable” took place at Village Hall on Tuesday, May 4^th. Blessed to have in attendance all living former mayors. Shared breakfast with our 24^th mayor (Charles P. Obremski, 1977-1979), 26^th (Edward C. Moulton, Jr., 1981-2007), 27^th (Joseph J. Gross, 2007-2011), and its 28^th (Brendan G. Coyne, 2011-2021). Was humbled and honored to be able to ask each mayor the greatest challenges of his administration and receive some sage advice on where they felt my immediate and long-term efforts should focus. God bless and keep these honorable public servants.

We have posted a photograph to commemorate the historic assemblage, as well of one of Mayor Moulton in front of his original desk; one he acquired in Poughkeepsie (as he recalls it). Every mayor since has used that desk.

Sadly, our 25^th mayor (George R. Dempsey, 1979-1981), 93, passed away in Amherst, MA, on June 22, 2020, from injuries sustained after a fall. A WWII U.S. Navy veteran of the Pacific Theater (enlisting when war broke out at the ripe old age of 17), his New York Times obituary included this attribution: “He even served as mayor of a small village where his family had deep roots.”

Do not want to add anything else for fear of stepping on the somber reflection on the service of Mayor Dempsey. We continue to owe a debt of gratitude to his Greatest Generation. As Memorial Day approaches -- with parade -- let’s reflect on their service and sacrifices.

My best to all – James A. “Jimmy” Gagliano

April 30, 2021

 

Dear Cornwall-on-Hudson residents, neighbors, and friends:

 

So many exciting things going on in the Village to tell you about. It truly makes coming to work every day -- less work -- and much more a blessing.

 

We are moving forward on Donahue Farm purchase. New York State Supreme Court approved the purchase -- required when involved party is a 501(c)(3). The Attorney for the Village is currently reviewing all relevant documents and beginning the process to close; hopefully within two weeks.

On Tuesday, May 4^th, I will host a “Village Mayors’ Roundtable” attended by all living former mayors. In attendance will be the Village’s 25^th mayor (C. Obremski, 1979-1981), 26^th (E. Moulton, 1981-2007), 27^th (J. Gross, 2007-2011), and its 28^th (B. Coyne, 2011-2021). Entirely too much “living history,” subject-matter-expertise, and invaluable knowledge about our wonderful Village, its origins, and the best path forward for me to miss this opportunity. I promise a photograph to memorialize the roundtable and will share with all.

Please know that the Village Board is engaged in an examination of all the facts related to the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) set in place by the New York State legislature and enacted by the governor on March 31st. We are closely reviewing the summary of provisions and guidance provided by Orange County District Attorney’s Office and will deliberate over what Village may endeavor to opt out of, as permitted by law.

Don’t forget about the Donahue Memorial Park cleanup – the 10^th annual Riverkeeper Riversweep event Saturday morning, May 1^st, between 9:00am and 12:00pm. You may find more information, along with required pandemic precautions at [email protected].

We all remain in this together. Enjoy the weekend. Blessings to all.

James A. “Jimmy” Gagliano

April 23, 2021

 

Dear Cornwall-on-Hudson residents, neighbors, and friends:

 

So, the dust has finally settled following the election and the resultant April 5^th swearings-in of Trustees Carnright and Braine, as well as your new mayor. Firstly, I think I can speak for Dave and Bill both, when I say that the three of us are humbled and honored and exceedingly excited to begin our terms and work on your behalf. We acknowledge our sacred responsibilities.

 

As your new mayor – the Village’s 29^th – I would like to recognize the incredible legacy of service that Mayor Brendan Coyne has gifted our beloved community. His ten years as mayor, as well as years of service to the CCSD School Board, the Independence Day Committee, and Lions Club have left an indelibly positive mark on our Village. Thank you, sir.  

I’d be remiss in not acknowledging the incredible coalescing of Village employees that have served to guide and instruct me as I round out my 3^rd week in office. Jeanne Mahoney, Dave Halvorsen, Mike Trainor, Steve Dixon, Bill Horton, and your staffs/crew – thank you, from the bottom of my heart. You have helped keep this Village running smoothly, in spite of me. 

Follow the Village website for upcoming Village Board meetings and public hearings. Stay tuned for exciting, upcoming news regarding the Donahue Farm property purchase and Memorial Day and Fourth of July event updates. We have a lot to be thankful for this year – no matter the pandemic hurdles.

You know how to reach me. Call me – and I WILL return the call. Stop at Village Hall when you see my Jeep in the parking lot or “gently accost” me around town when you see me out walking my dog or shopping/eating local.

We are all in this together. Enjoy the weekend. Blessings to all.

James A. “Jimmy” Gagliano

March 19, 2021

 

Dear Village Folks:

 

So, Cornwall-on-Hudson will have a new administration come April 5. Jim Gagliano will become mayor and Bill Braine will become a trustee. Dave Carnright will continue as trustee. Good luck to the Village Board!

 

The Village Board will hold its Business Meeting Monday, March 22. The board will set a public hearing for a proposed short-term rentals law for its April 19 Business Meeting. The draft law will be posted on the Village website soon.

 

Spring arrives Saturday with temperatures around 60. Have a great weekend!

 

Sincerely,

Brendan Coyne

Mayor

Friday, March 12, 2021

 

Dear Village Folks:

 

I’m happy to confirm that online payment of utility bills (water, sewer and garbage) will begin in April. More details will be available soon.

 

The board passed the Police Reform Plan at its March 8 Work Session. The board made a few minor changes. I sent the plan to Albany the next day. Again, thanks to the members of the committee. 

 

We also discussed the proposed short-term rental law at the work session and suggested some changes. We hope to post the proposed law next week. The Public Hearing on the proposed law will be postponed to our April 19 Business Meeting.

 

The Village Election is Tuesday, March 16, from noon to 9 p.m. at Village Hall.

 

Enjoy the spring-like weather and have a good weekend.

 

All the best,

Brendan Coyne

Mayor