David E. Barton

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting included discussions on several area variance applications. One application involved Community Land 2002 seeking variances for offset lots, which led to a debate about flag lots and potential issues for the town. The board considered setting a public hearing for this matter. Another application was from YW Highland Realty LLC, requesting relief from minimum acreage requirements for a 4-family dwelling. This discussion covered the building's compliance with ADA standards, parking layouts, and the balancing test for area variances, including potential impacts on neighborhood character and environmental effects.

The Town Board Workshop Meeting included discussions and reports from various departments, including the Assessor, Building & Zoning Department, Dog Control, Finance, Highway, Historian, Police, Recreation/Buildings & Grounds, Town Clerk, Supervisor, and Water & Sewer. Key topics included updates on building permits, solar panel installations, data collection for the New York Forward Grant, potential uses for the Hudson Valley Wine Village, safety measures at Town Hall, park camera installations, road maintenance, and historic preservation efforts. The board also discussed issues related to 4 River Road, including shoreline deterioration and potential engineering proposals. Resolutions were passed regarding an inter-municipal agreement with the Highland Central School District, employee retirement contributions, personnel changes, and overriding the tax levy limit. Additionally, the Supervisor was authorized to sign the Ulster County STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaign Agreement.

The public hearing was held to review the 2026 proposed budget. The total proposed operating budget is $1,442,355.00, with projected income of $128,248.00, resulting in $1,314,107.00 to be raised by real property taxes. The budget reflects a 4.25% increase, which is a $52,569.00 tax increase from 2025, with a rate per thousand of $1.21, a $.05 increase per 1000 for 2026. The board opened the floor for public comment, but there were no questions or comments from the public.

The meeting included discussions and actions on various topics, such as approving bill payments, reviewing correspondence related to the Red Cross Blood Drive and member changes, and addressing community room requests. Updates were provided on building and grounds maintenance for both stations, including roof leak monitoring and fire alarm replacements. The treasurer's report for October 2025 was accepted, and the chief's report included information on calls for service and upcoming training dates. Old business included discussions on the Tahoe, hydrant rental, and a request for office furniture, while new business covered approval for a live burn and extending the New Paltz Rescue Squad contract. An executive session was approved to discuss specific matters, and public comments were heard.

The Highland Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners held a special meeting after a public hearing to discuss and adopt the 2026 proposed budget. The board also discussed new business, including the purchase of a trailer from Hudson River truck & trailer, and an outstanding invoice from IDville for repair charges. Additionally, the board members discussed the requirements for a .GOV website.