(Summary by Jane Smith)

January 16, 2024

Legislator Houston of the Veterans Affairs Committee reported that the “challenge coin,” approved in an amendment to the budget, is underway and under development; a diagram of the coin will be presented in the next few months.

Chairman Truitt advised that appointments to committees would be finalized in the coming weeks and urged legislators to reach out if particular committees were of interest.

Ten resolutions (## 9, 10, 12--19) were unanimously approved as part of the consent agenda.  These included authorization of the execution of grant to partially fund the purchase of a conservation easement on property known as the Meadowland Farm in the Town of Clinton; confirming a new appointment to the Dutchess County Planning Board; confirming appointment of Margaret Walker as Dutchess County Public Defender; amending the budge as it pertains to the District Attorney; amending the budget as it pertains to the Department of Public Works Public Transit Division; delegating authority to correct errors on the tax rolls and with respect to certain real property tax refunds; and quitclaim deeds on properties in the Towns of East Fishkill, Hyde Park and Union Vale.

One item on the non-consent agenda, Resolution 11 confirming a reappointment to the Dutchess County Board of Ethics also received unanimous consent; before the vote Legislators Valdes-Smith and Brendli urged that, hereafter, an updated resume of each prospective appointee or re-appointee be attached to the resolution.

In other business, Legislator Atkins brought to the legislature’s attention and sought information about three efforts in Poughkeepsie: the Youth Opportunity Union to which funds were recently allocated; funds that had been allocated to Saint Joe’s for a rehab facility which had operated in a building on Catherine Street but the building was recently sold or is currently being sold; and a Crisis Center that is no longer operating leaving a void for those struggling with addiction.

Chairman Truitt announced the appointment of Ben Traudt as assistant to the Chair.