Cody Baldwin

The Town Board discussed several key topics including public comments regarding oversight of developers and the condition of the Main Street sidewalk. Updates were provided on the Hurley Heritage Community Center rehabilitation project, a grant application for water purification and a kayak launch for the Esopus Creek Advisory Committee, and a productive meeting with the county regarding the Hudson Valley Water Company. Additionally, progress on the new highway garage construction and financial matters, including bank reconciliation policies and an abstract of claims, were reviewed. The board also analyzed budget variances across several lines, including auditing services, tax collector software, and snow removal costs.

The agenda includes department reports from the Supervisor, Town Clerk, and Recreation Department, as well as presentations regarding the Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Basin Road/Route 28 intersection. A public hearing is scheduled for the adoption of a local law amending the town zoning code. Action items include the approval of RFPs for attic asbestos removal and accounting services, a donation to the Hurley Heritage Society, and the authorization of a collective bargaining agreement. Discussions will cover real property law concerning spouses of fallen police officers and a proposed cannabis event, followed by an executive session for matters related to collective negotiations and personnel.

The Town of Hurley's Comprehensive Plan serves as a guide for future community decisions and development, aiming to safeguard the town's unique character while embracing inevitable economic and demographic changes. The plan outlines long-term goals across several key areas: capital improvements, economic development (including Main Street and home-based businesses), environmental protection (water and air quality), historic preservation, land use (open space and agricultural uses), housing diversity, zoning and building codes, recreation, senior citizen services, public safety, public education and communication, traffic and transportation, and infrastructure. The overarching vision is to preserve Hurley's beauty, history, agricultural roots, friendliness, and ease of living by adopting a proactive planning approach.

This Comprehensive Plan serves as a roadmap for the Town of Hurley, outlining decisions to safeguard its essence while embracing future changes. The plan's vision emphasizes preserving the town's beauty, history, agricultural roots, and rural character, while balancing landowners' rights and acknowledging inevitable economic and demographic shifts. Key strategic areas include capital improvements, economic development that aligns with town character, environmental protection (water, air, open space), historic preservation, land use management, diverse housing solutions, effective zoning codes, recreational opportunities, senior citizen services, public safety, public education, communication, and infrastructure. The overall goal is to foster a vibrant future by protecting cherished aspects and proactively managing change.

The board discussed the installation of park benches on the Hurley Rail Trail and received a presentation on the Onteora School District budget. Updates were provided regarding proposed zoning code revisions. The board passed resolutions to establish a Comprehensive Plan Committee, approve the 2026 Highway Expenditure Agreement, declare a wheel loader as surplus property, establish stipends for death certificate processing duties, hire a temporary groundskeeper, and accept a bid for a surplus EV charger. Additionally, the board discussed potential driveway construction for the Hurley Heritage Community Center, anniversary commemorations, and a proposed donation to the Hurley Heritage Society. Public comment included concerns regarding employee mediation and union negotiations, as well as reporting on cybersecurity grants and rail trail project bids.