Tuesday April 30, 2024 
Town Hall Closes for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
SCHODACK – Debra L. Curtis, Schodack Town Clerk, wishes to remind residents that the Schodack Town Hall Offices will be closed on Monday, January 18, 2021 in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. The Schodack Town Hall Offices will resume its regular business hours on Tuesday, January 19, 2021. The Transfer Station will have regular standard business hours on Tuesday, January 19, 2021.
If you have any questions, please contact the Office of the Town Clerk at (518)477-7590, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30am and 4:30pm.
Poestenkill to Vote on Ambulance District
POESTENKILL – On March 30, 2021, Poestenkill landowners will be encouraged to vote whether an ambulance district should be established in Poestenkill. Establishing an ambulance district is mandated by the state as the first step in establishing a service and, does not increase property taxes.
Voting will take place at the Sullivan-Jones VFW Hall. Again, the establishment of an ambulance district will be at no cost to the landowners. If the establishment of an ambulance district is approved, there will be a second vote at a later date to ratify a contract with an established service.
At this time, Mohawk Ambulance is our primary provider. HOWEVER, Mohawk is not under contract with Poestenkill and must honor their contracts with these municipalities first, potentially leaving Poestenkill residents waiting for emergency service. Wait times are averaging 17 minutes. One must realize if the average is 17 minutes, there are some people waiting longer. I have FOILed the 911 reports EMS reports from Rensselaer County 911, which is what I base my discussion on.
Having contracted ambulance service would also allow for mutual aid for Poestenkill from surrounding towns (which we do not have now since we do not have an ambulance service). As I have always said, we are fortunate to have our Poestenkill First Responders and would be lost without them. The First Responders are limited by state regulations as to the degree of care they can offer.
Expect more articles to follow with more details.
Councilman Harold Van Slyke
Bipartisan Statement About the Events in the Capitol
BRUNSWICK – The Brunswick Republicans and Democrats join with many local Republicans and Democrats in our unqualified condemnation and horror at the events of last week in our nation’s Capitol Building. The last time this hallowed building was breached in such violent fashion was by invading British soldiers, on August 24th, 1814, when they ransacked the Capitol and set it on fire. You can still see the burn scars from those events in the building today. Tragically, there will likely also be scars left in the building from this most unpatriotic, domestic insurrection as well, standing forever in evidence of the divisiveness of our current political atmosphere. As patriots, we must restore faith in our country and its institutions. This insurrection threatened the sanctity of our political rituals, as well as the safety of our lawmakers of both parties in Congress.
Charges of election fraud must stop. As a resident in Rensselaer County, we have gotten to know the wonderful people who work for our Board of Elections. They are comprised of collegial pairings of Republicans and Democrats who work beautifully and tirelessly together with genuine dedication to make our elections happen and happen smoothly, even in a global pandemic. Boards of Election all across our country work in this bipartisan way and, far from being viewed with suspicion and facing threats of physical violence in their homes, they should be praised for their integrity and sincere commitment to securing our right to free and fair elections in a 21st-century democracy.
We *must* restore faith in our system by electing politicians of both parties who put integrity and loyal patriotism above their personal interests in being re-elected. This is the beginning of a new era, thanks to the large majority that rejected the bitter partisan politics of the past four years. Now we have the opportunity to move forward together and hopefully to restore bipartisan trust in our elected officials as we all work together to make our community a neighborly place to live regardless of your political party. Here in Brunswick our two parties look forward to working together for our residents, as Americans first, party members second!”
Jennifer Mann, Town of Brunswick Democratic Chair
Mark Balistreri, Town of Brunswick Republican Chair
Sand Lake Virtual Inaugural Ball Adds Sponsors
SAND LAKE – Sand Lake Democrats’ Virtual Inaugural Ball to be held online the evening of Inauguration Day, Wednesday, January 20, 2021, has added as co-sponsors the Democratic Committees of Brunswick, Nassau, Poestenkill, and Schodack.
The event celebrates the inauguration of Joseph Biden as U.S. President and Kamala Harris as Vice President. Musicians Chris Shaw and Bridget Ball Shaw, and magician Jim Snack will be featured at the event. They will be joined by other well-known local performers and community guests.
The party begins at 7:00 PM with a virtual cocktails & hors d’oeuvres half hour, followed by the virtual ball from 7:30 – 8:30 PM.
“We’re working hard to make the virtual Inauguration Ball a festive, fun, and participatory event. We’re being guided by our experienced and talented featured performers,” said Garrett DeGraff, Sand Lake Democratic Committee Chair. DeGraff noted that Chris Ball Shaw and James Snack are both members of the committee.
Proceeds will support future local campaigns of the various sponsoring committees.
The suggested minimum donation is $10 (or whatever the donor can afford).
Donations can be made securely on-line at https://secure.actblue.com/donate/sand-lake-democratic-committee-1-base, or by check mailed to Sand Lake Democratic Committee, PO Box 89, Averill Park, NY 12018. All donors will be sent the Zoom link by email prior to the event, so those donating by check should include their email address.
“We’re very excited to offer a safe, fun and celebratory evening after a very tough period,” DeGraff said. “We hope many folks join us for this online community celebration at the dawning of a new day in America’s history.”
Poestenkill Democrats Donate in Honor of Inauguration Day
POESTENKILL – The Poestenkill Democratic Committee invites Democrats and friends to join in celebrating the Biden/Harris presidential inauguration together, by giving back to our community. Please join the members of the local Democratic Committee in making a donation to the Bread of Life Food Pantry in Poestenkill on or about January 20, Inauguration Day. The food pantry is open to all and is responding to increased food insecurity this year. Checks may be made payable to Evangelical Lutheran Church with “Bread of Life Food Pantry” in the memo line and mailed to Evangelical Lutheran Church, PO Box 167, Poestenkill, NY 12140. (You may also make donations of non-perishable, non-expired food by placing it in the bin next to the church’s side entrance, located at 772 Route 351. Any questions, call the Pantry at 518-283-6045.) If you wish, please spread the word that you have joined in this group gesture by posting on the Facebook page of the Poestenkill Democrats. We also welcome you at our monthly meeting s of the committee and other volunteers, usually the third Wednesday at 6 p.m. For more information about the Committee activities see the Facebook page or call chairman Bob Crowley at 518-396-6614. Thank you!
East Greenbush Supervisor’s Report, January 8, 2021
EAST GREENBUSH – Happy New Year!!! 2020 was an extremely difficult year in many ways; I’m optimistic that things will get better in 2021.
The Town of East Greenbush has formed a Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative pursuant to Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order #203. This Executive Order mandates that any municipality with its own police agency must form a group (the Collaborative) which will “perform a comprehensive review of current police force deployments, strategies, policies, procedures and practices, and develop a plan to improve such deployments, strategies, policies, procedures and practices.” The East Greenbush Collaborative includes two elected officials, the Chief and Assistant Chief of Police, and six members of the community with varying backgrounds in law enforcement, the law, the court system, and mental health services delivery.
Although the terms “reform” and “reinvention” appear in the title, we want to make it clear that we’re very proud of the East Greenbush Police Department. And while we know that a review of this nature can yield positive results we don’t see this is part of an effort to “defund the police” or paint a negative picture of EGPD. What we do want is your help in understanding the role our police department plays in the community, and any reflections you may have on interactions with the department. Thus we are asking that you go to the Town website, www.eastgreenbush.org, and take a few minutes to complete the ‘Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative – Community Survey.’ The results of this survey will help ensure that the community’s voice is heard in the preparation of the Plan.
Meetings of the Collaborative are held by remote means on Tuesday evenings at 6:00 p.m. Consult the Town website for further details. If you can’t find the survey, call the Supervisor’s Office at 518-477-4775.
Schodack Supervisor’s Report for December 2020
SCHODACK – I want to start off with wishing everyone a Happy New Year and I hope your holidays were spent with the ones you love however you choose to celebrate. 2020 was an interesting year to say the least, but thanks to the support of my fellow Town Board members and the hard work of our Town Employees and Department Heads, I feel our town did a good job responding to the challenges COVID presented and did our best to keep residents and employees safe while still delivering the essential services we provide.
As i write this we are dealing with the highest case loads we have seen this entire pandemic. As was expected by many in the public health field, all across the US we’ve seen a resurgence as colder weather has returned and we spend more time indoors. I want to encourage everyone to remain vigilant and take the preventative measures to try and slow the spread of the virus. We are beginning to see the vaccine become available to more and more people and it’s only a matter of time before we’ve gained the upper hand on the spread, but it’s imperative that we all work together these next few months to ensure our medical system doesn’t become overwhelmed now after we’ve all worked so hard for so long. Thank you all for your hard work and sacrifices so far, especially those of you working on the front lines of this fight.
The recently completed Albany Hudson Electric Trail is now open and I encourage you to try it out as weather permits. Our Town offers an abundance of natural beauty and the trail is a great way to take it in. I have been working with Chief of Police John Hourigan and Highway Superintendent Ken Holmes to address and remedy some of the parking issues and I hope to see some expanded opportunities in the future.
And finally, I want to express my gratitude to our hard working Highway crew for their efforts on December 17th and the following days combating a record snowfall event. Great work as always gentlemen in ensuring our roads are quickly and safely cleared!
Town of Nassau 2021 Tax Collection Information
NASSAU – Taxes will be collected during the month of January. Nassau Town Hall 29 Church St. Nassau, NY 12123. 518-766-2343 x8.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it is strongly suggested checks and money orders be mailed in! Any in person payments must have an appointment (no exceptions) and any cash payments must be in the exact amount.
Monday- Friday 12pm-2pm; Saturday 9am-12pm.
Penalties will be assessed on payments made after February 1, 2021 as per the tax bill.
Reminders mailed in March will include a $2.00 penalty fee.
A $20.00 Fee will be imposed on all returned checks.
After March 31, 2021 taxes will no longer be received by the Town of Nassau Tax Collector, but must be paid to Rensselaer County Bureau of Finance, 1600 7th Avenue Troy, NY 12180.
Additional County penalties will be imposed.
Letter from Receiver of Taxes- Town of Schodack
SCHODACK – 2021 Property Tax collection begins January 1st 2021.
Unfortunately the Covid-19 Pandemic continues to change how we do our day to day routines. For everyone’s health, there will be NO IN-PERSON collections for this tax season. All payments should be by check payable to Rec. of Taxes/Shawn Masters and mailed to PO Box 436 East Schodack, NY 12063 or they can be placed in the secure green drop box near the Town Hall entranceway.
For those who choose, payments may also be made through the Town website, www.schodack.org. Go to Departments, Receiver of Taxes, Tax Bills and then click view bills on ”this site” and follow prompts. There are additional charges if you choose to pay online.
2021 Collection periods will be: 1/1/21 – 2/1/21 no penalty, 2/2/21 – 3/1/21 1% penalty, and 3/2/21 – 3/31/21 2% penalty. A second notice for payment will be mailed on 3/5/21 and a mandatory fee of $2.00 will be added to total due amount.
Only exact full payments due, as listed on the bill, are able to be excepted. Please make sure the dollar amounts in the numerical and written sections on the check are the same and the correct amount due and check is signed. Please put current phone number on your check so we can contact you if there are any issues so late fees can be avoided.
Only when the complete bill is returned with your payment, the receipt on bottom of the bill will be stamped and returned to you.
Tax Bills from 2005- 2021 can also be viewed and printed from the town website for your convenience.
For any concerns, you can always contact me at 518-477-7935.
Sincerely, Shawn Masters
It’s Official, Biden Won! Let’s Dance – Virtually
SAND LAKE – Celebrate the inauguration of Joseph Biden as President and Kamala Harris as Vice President with Sand Lake Democrats and friends at the Virtual Inaugural Ball to be held online on Inauguration Day, Wednesday, January 20, 2021.
The party begins at 7:00 PM with virtual cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, followed by the virtual ball from 7:30 – 8:30 PM. The ball promises to be a festive, fun, and participatory celebration, featuring appearances by well-known local musicians, singers, artists, and other surprise guests.
The event is being sponsored by the Sand Lake Democratic Committee (SLDC) and proceeds will support future local campaigns.
The suggested donation is $10 and donations can be made securely on-line at https://secure.actblue.com/donate/sand-lake-democratic-committee-1-base, or by check mailed to Sand Lake Democratic Committee, PO Box 89, Averill Park, NY 12018.
All donors will be sent the Zoom link by email prior to the event, so those donating by check should include their email address.
For more information, visit the SLDC on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SandLakeDemocrats/
Save the date and join the celebration!
Garrett DeGraff, Averill Park
Nassau Democratic Committee Seeking Candidates for Town and County Offices
NASSAU – The Nassau Democratic Committee is currently accepting resumes from residents interested in running for the following town offices in 2021: Town Supervisor (two-year term), Town Council Member (two seats to be filled, each with a four-year term), Town Justice (four-year term), Tax Collector (two-year term), and Superintendent of Highways (two-year term). Interested candidates are invited to inquire and/or submit a resume and letter of qualifications by February 3, 2021 to: Pat Piniazek, Chair; Nassau Democratic Committee; via email: patpen1018@nullgmail.com.
The Nassau Democratic Committee also encourages Rensselaer County residents who are interested in running for County Executive, County Clerk, or 1 of 3 seats on the Rensselaer County Legislature (representing District 4: Towns of Nassau, Sand Lake, and Schodack) to submit a resume and letter of qualifications by February 3, 2021 to: Michael J. Monescalchi, Chair; Rensselaer County Democratic Committee; P.O. Box 846; Troy, NY 12181 or via email: renscodemschair@nullgmail.com.
Brunswick Democratic Committee Seeking Candidates for Town and County Offices
BRUNSWICK – The Brunswick Democratic Committee is currently accepting resumes from residents interested in running for the following town office in 2021: Town Council Member (two seats to be filled, each with a 4-year term). Interested candidates are invited to inquire and/or submit a resumé and letter of qualifications by Feb. 3, 2021 to: Jennifer Mann, Chair; Brunswick Democratic Committee; P.O. Box 91; Cropseyville, NY 12052 or via email: BrunswickDems@nullgmail.com.
The Brunswick Democratic Committee also encourages Rensselaer County residents who are interested in running for County Executive, County Clerk, or 1 of 3 seats on the Rensselaer County Legislature (representing District 3: Towns of Brunswick, Pittstown, and Schaghticoke) to submit a resumé and letter of qualifications by Feb. 3, 2021 to: Michael J. Monescalchi, Chair; Rensselaer County Democratic Committee; P.O. Box 846; Troy, NY 12181 or via email: renscodemschair@nullgmail.com.
East Greenbush Democratic Committee Seeking Candidates for Town and County Offices
EAST GREENBUSH – The East Greenbush Democratic Committee is currently accepting resumes from residents interested in running for the following town offices in 2021: Town Council (two seats to be filled, each with a four-year term). Interested candidates are invited to inquire and/or submit a resume and letter of qualifications by February 3, 2021 to: Judith Condo, Chair; East Greenbush Democratic Committee; P.O. Box 434; East Greenbush, NY 12061 or via email: jcondo604@nullgmail.com.
The East Greenbush Democratic Committee also encourages Rensselaer County residents who are interested in running for County Executive, County Clerk, or 1 of 4 seats on the Rensselaer County Legislature (representing District 2: Towns of East Greenbush, North Greenbush, and Poestenkill) to submit a resume and letter of qualifications by February 3, 2021 to: Michael J. Monescalchi, Chair; Rensselaer County Democratic Committee; P.O. Box 846; Troy, NY 12181 or via email: renscodemschair@nullgmail.com.
North Greenbush Democratic Committee Seeking Candidates for Town and County Offices
NORTH GREENBUSH – The North Greenbush Democratic Committee is currently accepting resumes from residents interested in running for the following town offices in 2021: Town Supervisor (two-year term), Town Council (four-year term) and Town Justice (four-year term). Interested candidates are invited to inquire and/or submit a resume and letter of qualifications by February 3, 2021 to: Joshua A. Sabo, Chair; North Greenbush Democratic Committee; 40 Buckbee Rd., Troy, NY 12180 or via email: northgreenbushdemocrats@nullgmail.com.
The North Greenbush Democratic Committee also encourages Rensselaer County residents who are interested in running for County Executive, County Clerk, or 1 of 4 seats on the Rensselaer County Legislature (representing District 2: Towns of East Greenbush, North Greenbush, and Poestenkill) to submit a resume and letter of qualifications by February 3, 2021 to: Michael J. Monescalchi, Chair; Rensselaer County Democratic Committee; P.O. Box 846; Troy, NY 12181 or via email: renscodemschair@nullgmail.com.
Poestenkill Democratic Committee Seeking Candidates for Town and County Offices
POESTENKILL – The Poestenkill Democratic Committee is currently accepting resumes from residents interested in running for the following town offices in 2021: Town Supervisor (two-year term), Town Council Member (two seats to be filled, each with a four-year term), Town Clerk (two-year term), and Superintendent of Highways (two-year term).
Interested candidates are invited to inquire and/or submit a resume and letter of qualifications by February 3, 2021 to Bob Crowley, Chair, Poestenkill Democratic Committee, P.O. Box 21, Poestenkill, NY 12140, or via email: pkdems@nullgmail.com.
The Poestenkill Democratic Committee also encourages Rensselaer County residents who are interested in running for County Executive, County Clerk, or 1 of 4 seats on the Rensselaer County Legislature (representing District 2: Towns of East Greenbush, North Greenbush, and Poestenkill) to submit a resume and letter of qualifications by February 3, 2021 to: Michael J. Monescalchi, Chair; Rensselaer County Democratic Committee; P.O. Box 846; Troy, NY 12181 or via email: renscodemschair@nullgmail.com.
Schodack Democratic Committee Seeking Candidates for Town and County Offices
SCHODACK – The Schodack Democratic Committee is currently accepting resumes from residents interested in running for the following town offices in 2021: Town Supervisor (two-year term) and Town Council Member (two seats to be filled, each with a 4-year term). Interested candidates are invited to inquire and/or submit a resume and letter of qualifications by February 3, 2021 to Laura M. Jordan, Chair of the Schodack Democratic Committee via e-mail: ljordan@nullpowers-santola.com or by regular mail: Laura M. Jordan, 100 Great Oaks Blvd, Suite 123, Albany, New York 12033.
The Schodack Democratic Committee also encourages Rensselaer County residents who are interested in running for County Executive, County Clerk or Rensselaer County Legislature (three seats to be filled representing District 4: Towns of Schodack, Sand Lake and Nassau) to submit their resume and letter of qualifications by February 3, 2021 to Michael J. Monescalchi, Chair of the Rensselaer County Democratic Committee at P.O. Box 846, Troy, New York, 12181 or via email: renscodemschair@nullgmail.com.