Supervisor’s Newsletter
April 2026 Edition
Spring Renewal & Earth Week in Putnam Valley
Spring has sprung in the Valley, bringing with it that unmistakable sense of renewal. The spring- green of willow buds, the splash of yellow forsythia, and the first crocuses and daffodils blooming all signal a season of fresh beginnings. Mornings are once again filled with the chorus of peepers and birds, an energizing reminder that Spring is upon us!
This time of year, naturally invites us to slow down and take it in, to notice the small changes and appreciate the interconnectedness of the world around us. It is a chance to reconnect not only with nature, but with the role we each play in caring for it.
In that spirit, the Town of Putnam Valley is proud to support a range of activities during Earth Week, led by our dedicated Climate Task Force. These events are designed to bring our community together, raise awareness, and offer simple, meaningful ways for residents to get involved. Whether it is through hands-on projects, educational opportunities, or community gatherings, Earth Week serves as a reminder that even small actions can have a lasting impact.
As we enjoy the beauty of the season, it is also an opportunity to reflect on how we can continue to protect and preserve it for future generations. Our environment and our community are deeply connected, and the care we show for one strengthens the other.
For the schedule of Earth Week events click here: Celebrate Earth Week in Putnam Valley – Town of Putnam Valley
Looking Ahead: Updating Our Comprehensive Plan
As we begin thinking about updating Putnam Valley’s Comprehensive Plan, it’s important that we take a thoughtful, long-term approach to preserving what makes our community unique, especially our rural character and local agriculture.
I recently attended farmland protection training with Jeff Kehoe, Associate Environmental Analyst for the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. This training provided valuable guidance on how communities can better plan for and protect their agricultural resources. This is one piece of a much larger effort as we look ahead and consider the future of our town.
As part of this process, we’ll be assessing how best to support local farms, protect open spaces, and strengthen our Town’s resiliency, while also planning for responsible growth. Input from farmers, residents, and local businesses will be key as we work toward a comprehensive plan that reflects our shared vision for Putnam Valley’s future.
If you are an active or aspiring farmer, or rent your land to a farmer for agricultural use and would like to be included in the Agricultural District, the annual window for applying is April 1st-30th. For more information visit: Keep Putnam Farming – Putnam County, New York
Streamlining Building & Planning Processes
I recently met with our Town Planner, the Planning and Zoning Chairs, our Building Inspector, and the Town Engineer to take a close look at how we can make the building and planning process more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly for residents.
This was a productive working session focused on identifying ways to streamline applications and reduce confusion. We discussed creating a clear, step-by-step checklist so applicants know exactly what’s required from the start, as well as improving the information available on the Town website to make it easier to navigate the process.
Just as important, we want to hear directly from you. We’ll be putting together a community survey to gather feedback on your experiences, challenges, and suggestions. Your input will help shape a system that works better for everyone.
Our goal is simple: a process that is easier to understand, more predictable, and responsive to the needs of our community.
On that note, we’re opening the doors at Town Hall. Come meet our Building Inspector, Rich Quaglietta, ask questions, and get a better understanding of how the department works. This is just the beginning of more open, accessible Town Hall conversations.
Meet the Building Inspector Saturday, May 2nd 10-11 AM at Town Hall.
The Mystery of Putnam Valley’s Stone Chambers
I also had the opportunity to meet with a group of residents passionate about the stone chambers found throughout Putnam Valley and the surrounding areas. The meeting, spearheaded by Sam Oliverio, sparked a lively and thoughtful discussion about these unique structures and their place in our community.
Scattered throughout Putnam County, often tucked into hillsides, the stone chambers evoke a sense of mystery and folklore from a time long ago. Whether practical colonial-era root cellars, or ceremonial in nature, these structures are a visible reminder of the history of our region.
One of the most notable examples locally is the King’s Chamber, located in nearby Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park. It is the largest known stone chamber in Putnam County, measuring roughly 30 feet deep, and is particularly intriguing for its alignment with the winter solstice sunrise.
During our discussion, Sam Oliverio shared that during his time as Supervisor, an ordinance was passed to offer some level of protection for these chambers, while still allowing for zoning variances. The group expressed a strong interest in strengthening those protections and exploring the possibility of formally recognizing these structures as historic sites to ensure they are preserved and properly maintained.
This conversation is just the beginning. The topic will be brought forward for further discussion at an upcoming Town Board meeting as we continue to explore how best to balance preservation, property rights, and historical recognition.
Working Together for Lake Peekskill: Updates and Improvements Underway
Following our recent Lake Peekskill meetings and on-site collaboration, I wanted to provide an update on what we’ve learned and where we’re heading next.
At the suggestion of Agnes Powe, President of the LPCA, we were glad to include members Mike and Chrissy Hritz in these conversations, ensuring strong community representation and input. Alongside lake management expert John Tucci of EverBlue Lakes, our Town team, and partners, we took a closer look at key drainage areas impacting the lake.
Through additional investigation, and thanks to coordination between District Clerk Karen Krobath, Landworks, and our Head of Maintenance Ray Gambichler, we’ve confirmed that the swale near the Community Center is directly connected to the retention pond. This connection plays an important role in how water, and sediment moves into the lake system.
John brought forward several practical and cost-effective ideas to improve how we manage that flow. In particular, he recommended enhancements to increase the effectiveness of the existing retention pond so it can better capture sediment before it reaches the lake. He also suggested expanding the use of silt traps at other key water entry points to further reduce runoff impacts.
In addition, the first ultrasonic unit has been installed, and two additional units will be installed later this month. Water sampling and testing will continue with the help of our dedicated community members, allowing us to closely monitor conditions and track progress over time.
Landwork Contractors will also be planting forsythia (pending Town Board approval) at the bottom of the swale by the Community Center to help act as a natural barrier. In a generous contribution to the community, they have also donated eight elderberry plants for North Beach, which will be incorporated into an upcoming community planting day.
These are actionable solutions that build on the infrastructure we already have in place, and they give us a clearer path forward. We’ll continue working with our partners to evaluate these options and prioritize next steps that will have the greatest positive impact on Lake Peekskill.
As always, I appreciate the collaboration and input from everyone involved. This kind of teamwork is exactly how we make meaningful progress for our community.
Re-Envisioning the Commission of Lakes:
The Putnam Valley Lakes Committees reconvened in person last month, marking an important step in restoring collaboration among our lake communities. The purpose of the meeting was to reestablish communication, share updates, and begin developing long-term strategies to protect and improve lake health town-wide.
Our next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 23rd at 6pm and will be livestreamed and recorded.
Kickoff to Summer: Picnic in the Park with Neighbors & Friends
Save the date for a community potluck picnic in the Town Park on Saturday, June 13th! As we welcome the start of the summer season, this is a wonderful opportunity to come together, meet your neighbors, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon in one of our shared spaces. Bring a favorite dish to share, a blanket or chair, and your sense of community. More details to follow, but for now, mark your calendar and plan to join us as we kick off summer, together.
Additional Resources:
The Town of Putnam Valley encourages residents to take advantage of the following programs, services, and informational resources available at the local, state, and federal levels.
Management of Canada Goose Nesting | U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Resident Canada Goose Registration
This resource provides guidance on managing resident Canada goose populations, including registration requirements and approved control methods. It is especially useful for property owners experiencing nesting or overpopulation concerns.
Cornell Cooperative Extension
Your Septic System
Learn how to properly maintain your septic system to protect your property, local waterways, and overall environmental health. Regular care and understanding of your system can help prevent costly repairs and failures.
Private Well PFAS Testing and Mitigation Rebate Pilot Program
The Private Well PFAS Testing and Mitigation Rebate Pilot Program offers limited, free private well testing and rebates for PFAS water treatment in select counties. What is learned through this program will help inform future efforts to support New Yorkers who rely on private wells.
For more information, visit: Private Well PFAS Testing and Mitigation Rebate Pilot Program
- For more information click here: Private Well PFAS Testing and Mitigation Rebate Pilot Program
New York State Office of Mental Health
Hudson River Community Engagement Sessions
OMH, in partnership with the Hudson River Directors of Community Services, is hosting Community Engagement Sessions to gather input from residents across the Hudson Valley about their mental health needs and experiences. This feedback will help inform future service planning and delivery.
Two sessions are currently being offered. For more information, visit: NYS Office of Mental Health Hudson River Community Engagement Sessions Town of Putnam Valley
Our goal is simple: pursue every responsible opportunity to secure outside funding, reduce the burden on taxpayers, and continue moving Putnam Valley forward in a thoughtful and fiscally sound way.
Thank you again for the opportunity to serve as your Town Supervisor. It is a privilege, and I look forward to the work ahead.
With gratitude,
Alison Jolicoeur
Town Supervisor, Putnam Valley
