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 sweep@riverkeeper.org.

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

James A. “Jimmy” Gagliano

Village Summer Recreation Program Starts July 6

            The Village of Cornwall-On-Hudson will operate its Summer Recreation Program for six weeks, from July 6 through August 13.

            The program runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday at Cornwall-On-Hudson Elementary School. The program is open to children who will enter grades K-7 next autumn. The recreation program offers games, sports, arts and crafts, swimming, and special activities. 

read details on the Summer Recreation page

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

Spring is upon us and that means its time to flush fire hydrants. The Water Department will be flushing fire hydrants beginning on Monday April 5, 2021 in the Town of Cornwall. Flushing will continue for the entire month of April. You may experience clouded or discolored water along with lower than normal water pressure when hydrants are being flushed in your neighborhood. Sign up for messages about hydrant flushing in your neighborhood by texting the keyword COH12520 to 99411 to stay informed. You can check out answers to many commonly asked questions about hydrant flushing here on the website

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

Changing the clocks has become a good time to check and replace smoke detectors in our home ( now it includes carbon monoxide detectors).

Please check and install the necessary detectors.

Friday, March 5, 2021

Dear Village Folks:

The next Village Work Session is Monday, February 8, via teleconference. The agenda includes the Police Reform Plan. The Police Reform Committee has worked over the course of three months and I believe the plan is appropriate for a small Village like ours that has a low crime rate. I am grateful to the 13 members of the committee. The Village must file its plan in Albany by April 1.

We will hope discuss the proposed short-term rental law. We plan to hold a Public Hearing on the proposed law at our March 22 Business Meeting.

The Village Election is Tuesday, March 16, from noon to 9 p.m. at Village Hall. Registration day is tomorrow, Saturday, March 6, from noon to 5 p.m. at Village Hall.

The weather has been back and forth, typical of March. But warmer days are coming and spring will soon be here so we can get out more often.

Have a good weekend!

All the best,

Brendan Coyne

Mayor