Dear Fishkill Resident,
The Town of Fishkill experienced its most significant severe weather event in more than two years this week, as Tropical Storm Isaias passed through the Hudson Valley. Towns like Fishkill were among the hardest hit in our area, with thousands of residents losing power. I have been in contact with Central Hudson to coordinate restoration efforts in Fishkill and direct resources to areas most affected by the severe weather. As of Friday night, more than 95 percent of affected customers are expected to have had their power restored. I thank Central Hudson and the mutual aid workers who assisted with restoring utilities to residents in Fishkill.
 Initially, Central Hudson estimated they would not be able to restore power to more than 300 homes in Beacon Hills until 11:30pm Friday night. I spoke with the Highway Department on Thursday, and they dispatched a crew to assist Central Hudson by clearing a tree blocking Belvedere Road. I'd like to thank Highway Superintendent Glenn Scofield and everyone at the Town Highway Department for their excellent work, which enabled Central Hudson to restore power to Beacon Hills a day ahead of schedule.
I encourage any family which remains affected by the severe weather to call me at Town Hall at (845) 831-7800 ext 3309, or click the red button below to email me directly.
Work continues on the Town Salt Shed
The Highway Department salt shed project has been underway for the past few months, and the project is really beginning to take shape. This week, the walls were finished, and I enjoyed touring the site to see the progress. The next phase of construction will see the installation of a fabric dome roof. The entire project is currently set to be completed by the end of October.
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August 20: Senior Picnic Drive-Through at Geering Park
The Dutchess County Office for the Aging is moving forward with its yearly tradition of hosting senior picnics. Due to COVID-19, the format this year is slightly different. This year, seniors can come to Maurer/Geering Park on August 20 from 9am to 2pm for a unique drive-through picnic, and receive a free lunch courtesy of the Office for the Aging. Reservations are limited and can be made by calling the Office for the Aging at (845) 486-2555 during business hours. Attendees under 60 can also receive meals for a fee of $8.
Calling All Gear Heads!
The Town of Fishkill will play host to the Classic Car Cruisers on Sunday, September 6, 2020, as they rev up their engines for a classic car show at Maurer/Geering Park. The show will feature up to 100 finely-tuned and detailed hotrods, muscle cars and exotic customs. The public is invited to attend this socially-distanced extravaganza. I'm looking forward to being there and presenting a special Supervisor's Choice trophy to the entrant that I think is Best-in-Show. The best news comes last: all proceeds at this event will go to benefit the family of a 9/11 first responder who recently passed away from medical complications related to their sacrifice on our nation's darkest day. I'd like to thank Town Fire Inspector Steve Van Buren for spearheading this effort and ensuring the event will be both fun and safe for everyone who attends.
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At the Town Board meeting on July 22, Amy Kacala, Executive Director of the Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail, presented Scenic Hudson's vision for a river trail connecting the Breakneck Ridge Train Station and Trailhead with the City of Beacon. It's quite an ambitious plan, which includes walking and biking paths, natural staircases, and a pedestrian bridge over Route 9D. These features would significantly enrich the enjoyment of Fishkill's natural beauty. I look forward to continuing to speak with Scenic Hudson and learning more about the Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail's possibilities for the Town of Fishkill.
Also at the July 22 Town Board meeting, I had the privilege of administering the oath to the Town of Fishkill Police Department's newest Detective, Frank Dedrick. Det. Dedrick had been serving as an acting Detective since 2019, and his talent and excellent work earned him a well-deserved permanent promotion to the Detective Bureau.
 During the July 22 Town Board meeting, I publicly pledged not to defund the Town of Fishkill Police Department. Since taking office I have made it very clear that I intend to strengthen our department, the protection and service it provides, and its excellent relationship with the residents of Fishkill.
I've taken several proactive steps to accomplish these goals. I provided an extra layer of accountability by appointing a civilian Police Commissioner. I appointed an experienced and talented Chief of Police who is dedicated to expanding community policing initiatives. I've moved forward with an accreditation program to ensure police in the Town of Fishkill are operating to the highest possible standards.
I took all of these actions before the social environment in our country made it politically expedient to attack the officers who protect and serve. While it is clear some law enforcement agencies in some areas in our country are struggling, the Town of Fishkill Police Department is a trusted and reputable part of our community, and I will continue to support the good work done by our dedicated and talented officers.
The Town Board was delighted to welcome a local Girl Scout to our meeting on July 22. At the meeting, this Girl Scout presented her plan for a shade area at the Friendly Paws Dog Park. This project would help her earn her Silver Award. She told the Board she came up with idea when she noticed the park has no shady overhang where a dog and its owner can relax in a cool area in the summer. She contacted a local construction company who developed a design for a shade structure, and she intends to raise more than $2,000 to cover the cost of installing the project. The Councilmembers and I were very impressed by her maturity and confidence when speaking in front of an audience. We all look forward to continuing to work with her as this project takes shape. It would be an excellent addition to the Dog Park and an excellent accomplishment for this young woman's Silver Award.
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Representatives of Verizon wireless will make a presentation at the August 19, 2020 Town Board meeting. They will be here to discuss a proposal to construct a 53-foot cell tower on Route 9D near the intersection of Slocum Road in Dutchess Junction.
Verizon representatives will also be able to answer any questions from board members and Fishkill residents. I invite any interested resident to attend and voice and questions or concerns you may have.
I wish to remind all residents that if you wish to attend Town Board meetings you are welcome to do so. For the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, Town and State guidelines must be followed at all times in Town Hall. These include wearing a mask inside the building, maintaining appropriate social distancing, and consenting to having your temperature scanned.
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 A storm like Isaias reminds us all of the importance of community. Every day I'm blessed to be a part of this community in Fishkill. I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve the people of our Town. I wish a pleasant weekend to everyone in the Town of Fishkill. Be well, be safe, and God Bless.
Sincerely,
Azem "Ozzy" Albra
Town of Fishkill Supervisor
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