Carmel, NY | HamletHub

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Apr 25, 2024

Warning Period For School Bus Violations Ends April 28

The Putnam County Sheriff's Office would like to remind all drivers that the warning period for Bus Patrol violations will end on April 28. After that time, drivers who pass a stopped school bus with the red lights flashing will receive a violation notice in the mail. The fine for the first offense is $250 and increase for subsequent violations. The Brewster, Carmel and Mahopac school districts are participating in this program and already have most of their buses outfitted with the camera systems. Over 300 warning notices were issued since the program began on April 1. Sheriff Kevin McConville says that “the safety of our children is of the utmost importance, and drivers are reminded that they should begin to slow down as they approach a school bus with the yellow lights flashing in anticipation of the bus stopping and children either entering or exiting the bus.”

Apr 25, 2024

Harckham Announces Record-High AIM Investments in New State Budget

New York State Senator Pete Harckham announced today that the newly enacted FY2024-2025 State Budget includes $4,084,738 in Aid and Incentives to Municipalities (AIM) funding for Senate District 40 (SD40), an increase of $362,836—9.75%—from last year’s budget. Outstanding in the AIM funding is $2,477,102 for the City of Peekskill, a $257,718 increase—11.61%—from the prior budget. “This increase in enacted AIM funding is a win for our local governments,” said Harckham. “It gives municipalities more spending power at a time when rising costs have been impacting programs, services and various initiatives. I think this record-high funding is a meaningful benchmark that will benefit our residents in many ways and ease some of the burden from our taxpayers.” “The City of Peekskill is extremely grateful for the generous AIM support afforded to us by our partners in state government,” said Peekskill Mayor Vivian McKenzie. “As we move forward with a spectrum of civic improvements, having this source of unrestricted funding available will give us some flexibility in spending on important projects without having to raise taxes to do so.” The FY2024-2025 state budget agreement includes $758.1 million for the AIM program statewide, a $43.4 million increase. The main source of unrestricted state aid for local governments, AIM funding has been frozen at about $715 million since the FY2011-2012 budget, and this year’s increase is the first since then. In SD 40, the 13 towns and six villages all received 6.99% or 7% increases in their enacted AIM funding. Among recipients are the Town of Cortlandt, which is getting $202,702 in AIM, and the Town of Yorktown, which is getting $189,144. The Village of Ossining will be getting $216,573.  The Aid and Incentives for Municipalities (AIM) program was instituted first in the FY2006-2007 State Budget, replacing a number of revenue sharing programs, each of which had targeted municipalities that often overlapped. Funded at $849 million (an increase of nearly $56 million, or 7 percent, from pre-AIM revenue sharing in the FY2005-2006 State Budget, AIM combined six revenue sharing programs into one program, representing the largest appropriation of unrestricted aid to local governments in a decade. The funding dropped to the $715 million level during the Great Recession. Town of Cortlandt Supervisor Dr. Richard Becker said, “On behalf of the Town of Cortlandt, I would like to thank Senator Peter Harckham for his ongoing support of the Town of Cortlandt. Once again, he has been instrumental in securing additional financial resources for the Town via the Aid and Incentives for Municipalities (AIMs) funding program. This ongoing support will assist us in our efforts to provide vital services to residents.” [Attached photo: State Sen. Pete Harckham discussing the newly enacted FY2024-2025 State Budget with Peekskill Mayor Vivian McKenzie. Credit: Office of State Sen. Pete Harckham / James Persons] Pete Harckham represents the 40th Senate District, which includes the towns of Carmel, Kent, Patterson and Southeast, and the village of Brewster in Putnam County; the town of Stony Point in Rockland County; and the city of Peekskill, the towns of Bedford, Cortlandt, Lewisboro, New Castle, North Salem, Ossining, Somers and Yorktown, the town/village of Mount Kisco, and the villages of Briarcliff Manor, Buchanan, Croton-on-Hudson and Ossining in Westchester County. He is chair of the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee.O

Apr 25, 2024

SLATER FIGHTS TO PRESERVE HUDSON VALLEY NATURAL RESOURCES

As $4.2 billion is being provided through the Environmental Bond Act, Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) has called on Gov. Kathy Hochul to ensure the Hudson Valley region receives the proper investment to protect its natural resources.Lakes all around the 94th Assembly District including Lake Carmel, Palmer Lake and Tonetta Lake have been plagued by Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in recent years, and although there were efforts made in 2018 to combat them, there has been no additional funding since. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency’s new limits on PFAS chemicals will have an immediate impact on local drinking water systems. Addressing these environmental issues not only protects public health but also prevents potential liabilities and costly remediation efforts for property owners.  “It is time for New York state to make important investments in the Hudson Valley that address the needs of its natural resources and ease the crushing burden on property owners. I strongly urge the governor to not let the Environmental Bond Act be another missed opportunity,” said Slater.“The Environmental Bond Act must prioritize the protection and investment in our natural resources, especially in the Hudson Valley region. Lakes like Carmel, Palmer and Tonetta have suffered from Harmful Algal Blooms and face threats from PFAS chemicals. It’s imperative that New York state seizes this opportunity to address these environmental challenges and alleviate the burdens on property owners. These issues have been ignored by Albany for too long,” said Michael Cazzari, Town of Carmel supervisor. “As the town supervisor of Putnam Valley, I have seen firsthand the damage of Harmful Algal Blooms and its effect on our lakes. Lakes like Lake Peekskill in Putnam Valley have been burdened in many ways due to the damaging impact of HABs making this once vibrant recreational lake unusable for the past three summers. The effects of HABs extend far beyond the aesthetic and recreational aspects of Lake Peekskill. Additionally, the contamination of Lake Peekskill poses a significant threat to Peekskill Hollow Brook, which feeds into the drinking water supply of the City of Peekskill. State funding is desperately needed. Assemblyman Slater’s request highlights the urgent need for funding to mitigate and prevent HABs in Lake Peekskill and similar bodies of water across our state. Putnam Valley supports and encourages Assemblyman Slater’s request to the governor to ensure lakes within the 94th Assembly District are adequately funded through the Environmental Bond Act,” said Jacqueline Annabi. “I would like to thank Assemblyman Slater for his continued understanding and support of the issues affecting my community. Putnam Lake lies in the headwaters of the East Branch Reservoir of the New York City Water Supply. In 2023, Putnam Lake experienced its worst year ever with Harmful Algal Blooms. These blooms affect not only Putnam Lake but downstream waters as well. Without the state’s aid and financial support to address these long-standing Harmful Algal Blooms, Putnam Lake will be forced to continue reliance on chemical solutions, which are hit and miss at best,” said Richard Williams, Town of Patterson supervisor. “The Hudson Valley region has been hit hard by storms in the last year or two. There needs to be an action plan that helps with the resiliency of our infrastructure as well as the repair of what was damaged during the storms. As one of the highest tax areas in the state, there needs to be a reconciliation that diverts some of these resources back into our community for these important projects,” said Ed Lachterman, Town of Yorktown deputy supervisor.   Assemblyman Matt Slater represents the 94th Assembly District, which includes parts of Putnam and Westchester counties, including the towns of Kent, Patterson, Putnam Valley, Carmel, Southeast, Somers and Yorktown, as well as the village of Brewster.

Apr 24, 2024

Sip & Stroll Kentucky Derby Style on May 4th in New Fairfield!

Sip & Stroll Kentucky Derby Style Sponsored by New Fairfield Parks & Recreation Saturday, May 4th 4pm-8pm Dust off your derby hats from your closet and Sip & Stroll along the sidewalks in New Fairfield. Be sure to wear derby best (bold, bright, and floral). $30.pp (age 21& up) includes a specialty glass & map of participating businesses. Specialty derby glasses will be distributed to the first 200 paid and registered participants Registration open: use the QR code to register or call 203-312-5633 With your paid glass, visit the businesses listed on your map for a sample of their complimentary offerings. Glasses are limited for this event and may sell out! Walk-in on May 4th glasses are: $35.pp Pick up your glass & map at New Fairfield Town Hall, 4 Brush Hill Rd. between 4 & 6 pm.

Apr 22, 2024

Lincoln Depot Museum 10th Anniversary / 2024 Season Opening

Lincoln Depot Museum 10th Anniversary / 2024 Season Opening:   April 27-28, 2024 Opening WeekendPresentations by Local/State Officials & Dignitaries on April 27th at 11:00 am on 4/27 (1:00 pm on 4/28)Museum Open until 4:00 pm - Many New Artifacts on DisplayLincoln Kids and Families: New Series with programs for families with children age 8 and up.   April 28, 2024 at 2:00 PM           Sybil Ludington: Local Hero of the American Revolution   Nearly coinciding with the 247th anniversary of Sybil’s famous ride, local historian and author Vincent Dacquino will tell the tale! Learn the story of 16-year old local patriot Sybil Ludington and her now-famous ride to alert the militia to the approach of British Troops.Come hear the story of the girl, the ride, and the legend it created!Copies of Mr. Dacquino’s books will be on hand for purchase (and autographing) after the presentation.  First Saturdays at the museum: May 4, 2024 at 2:00 PM               Contrasts in Command: The Battle of Fair Oaks, May 31 – June 1,2024 Surprisingly little has been written about the key Battle of Fair OaksThe bloody two-day affair, fought on the doorstep of the Confederate capital, was the first major battle in the Eastern Theater since Bull Run. At the head of the Confederate army was Gen. Joseph E. Johnston, and as fate intervened late in the day on May 31st, one of the men who would lay gravely wounded was General Johnston.         His replacement would be Gen. Robert E. Lee – a decision that changed the course of the entire war. Museum doors will open at 1:00 pm  First Saturdays at the Museum and Lincoln Kids & Families are brought to you by the Friends of the Lincoln Depot MuseumThe Lincoln Depot Museum is located at 10 S Water Street in Peekskill, NY,

Apr 21, 2024

Brewster Police Sergeant Passes Away Unexpectedly At End Of Shift!

It is with greatest of sadness that the Brewster Police Department announces the line of duty death of one of our very own, Sergeant Richard Gurniak. Sgt. Gurniak collapsed after hanging up his keys during the early morning hours of Saturday April 20, 2024 and despite tireless efforts by a fellow Brewster Officer as well as two members of the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, Sgt. Gurniak passed away.Richard was a retired member of the NYPD who joined the Brewster force two years ago. As bunting was placed at the Police Station, Chief John Del Gardo described the day as “one of the saddest in our history. This is the first line of duty death since the Department was formed in 2006.” To those that know Sgt. Gurniak, he was known as a great supervisor who was loved and respected by the men and woman of this Department. Sergeant Jim Phillips, who serves as our PBA President states that “the entire force is devastated by Richard’s sudden death. We are a small tight-nit department and feel the pain that Sgt. Gurniak’s family is going through. Rich was a good man who will be missed”,  Mayor James Schoenig recalled hiring Richard stating, “he had a stellar career in New York City which carried over to Brewster. Richard was respected by the entire Department. Sgt. Gurniak died doing what he loved doing – protecting residents of our community”. Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. We honor his bravery, sacrifice and service to our community. The Village of Brewster PBA and the entire Department wish to thank the PCSO Sergeant Joseph Sadowski and Deputy Richard Planamenta who worked tirelessly to save our Sergeants life; your efforts will not be forgotten. The Department would also want to acknowledge the fast and professional response of Brewster EMS as they performed admirably.

Apr 20, 2024

NYS DEC Reminds NY'ers That A Burn Ban Still In Effect!

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today reminded New Yorkers of the start of the annual statewide ban prohibiting residential brush burning. Since 2009, DEC enforces the annual brush burning ban from March 16 through May 14 to prevent wildfires and protect communities during heightened conditions for wildfires. “Last month, DEC encouraged everyone to be extra vigilant when burning brush because of the risk for wildfires caused by early dry conditions, but starting this Saturday, March 16, it will be illegal to burn brush for the next two months,” Commissioner Seggos said. “Due to the drier and warmer winter, New York State is at a greater risk for wildfires this spring. This ban is essential to protecting communities and natural resources, as well as the Rangers and other firefighters called to extinguish the wildfires.” Even though some areas of the state remain blanketed in snow, warming temperatures can quickly cause wildfire conditions to arise. Open burning of debris is the single-largest cause of spring wildfires in New York State. When temperatures warm and the past fall's debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread easily, further fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation. Each year, DEC Forest Rangers extinguish dozens of wildfires that burn hundreds of acres. In addition, local fire departments, many of which are staffed by volunteers, all too often have to leave their jobs and families to respond to wildfires caused by illegal debris fires. DEC’s <a href="https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/wildfires/fire-danger-map" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 77, 209);">Fire Danger Map for the 2024 fire season</a> displays each region’s potential fire risk. New York first enacted strict restrictions on open burning in 2009 to help prevent wildfires and reduce air pollution. The regulations allow residential brush fires in towns with fewer than 20,000 residents during most of the year, but prohibit such burning in spring when most wildfires occur. Backyard fire pits and campfires less than three feet in height and four feet in length, width, or diameter are allowed, as are small cooking fires. Only charcoal or dry, clean, untreated, or unpainted wood can be burned. People should never leave these fires unattended and must extinguish them. Burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round in New York State. For more information about fire safety and prevention, go to DEC's <a href="https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/wildfires/firewise-new-york" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 77, 209);">FIREWISE New York</a> webpage.  Some towns, primarily in and around the Adirondack and Catskill parks, are designated "fire towns." Open burning is prohibited year-round in these municipalities unless an individual or group has a permit from DEC. To find out whether a municipality is a designated fire town or to obtain a permit, contact the appropriate DEC regional office. A <a href="https://dec.ny.gov/about/contact-us/map-of-dec-offices" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 77, 209);">list of regional offices</a> is available on DEC's website. Forest Rangers, DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs), and local authorities enforce the burn ban. Violators of the State's open burning regulation are subject to criminal and civil enforcement actions, with a minimum fine of $500 for a first offense. For search and rescue, reporting a wildfire or illegal activity on state lands and easements, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264). To report environmental law violations, call 1-844-DEC-ECOs (1-844-332-3267).