|
|
April 2026
Dear Neighbors,
As we welcome the month of April, I’m pleased to share exciting updates and opportunities happening throughout our community.
This past month marked a truly historic milestone for our Town as we finalized the acquisition of 326 acres at Cranberry Hills. This investment represents a bold and lasting commitment to preserving open space, protecting our environment, and preventing overdevelopment. By securing this property, we are ensuring that future generations can enjoy its natural beauty while maintaining the character and quality of life that make our Town so special.
April is also shaping up to be a vibrant and active month across the community. We have a full calendar of events planned for residents of all ages, and I encourage everyone to take part and stay connected. We pride ourselves in offering this expanded line up of programs and events for the whole family to enjoy! In particular, I invite you to join us for our annual Town-Wide Earth Day Clean Up. This is a wonderful opportunity to come together as neighbors, give back to our community, and take pride in keeping our Town clean and beautiful.
I’m also proud to share that we will begin reconstruction on 20 of our Town roads this month. These roads are between 20 and 30 years old, and rather than waiting for them to deteriorate further, we are taking a proactive approach to infrastructure maintenance. Many municipalities do not have a long-term road management strategy like ours, and this investment reflects our commitment to responsible planning and fiscal stewardship. Many of you will see the hard working members of our Wappinger Town Highway Department out on these roads over the next few weeks, be sure to say hello and please be patient during road work times.
As the seasons change and we gather with family and friends, I would also like to extend my warmest wishes to all those celebrating. I wish everyone in our community a very happy Easter and a meaningful Passover.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support and for being an engaged part of our Town.
See you around Town,
Joseph D. Cavaccini, Town Supervisor
|
|
LOCAL EVENTS IN YOUR
TOWN OF WAPPINGER
APRIL & MAY 2026
Chelsea Fire Company
Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 4, 2026 | 10am
Chelsea Fire Station - 16 Liberty Street, Chelsea NY
The Chelsea Fire Dept Staff invite you to participate in their upcoming Easter egg hunt. It will be a delightful day filled with fun and excitement as you and your family search for hidden treasures!
Village of Wappingers Falls
Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 4, 2026 | 12pm | Hunt Begins at 1pm
Mesier Park
Join in with the Village of Wappinger residents for their annual East Egg Hunt with music, food, vendors and family fun! There will be four age groups including 3 & under, 4-6, 7-9, & 10-12. You and your family may take photos with the Easter Bunny and if you are lucky enough you can find the GOLDEN EGG & win a SUPER PRIZE!
Town of Wappinger Community Craft Night - Soap Making
Thursday, April 9, 2026 - 6pm
Schlathaus Community Center
This month we will be creating handmade soaps with different color and scent options! It is a more advanced craft and the cost is $10 per resident. Register by clicking the button below!
6th Annual "Joseph Ennesser"
5k Run & Walk
Saturday, April 11, 2026 - 8am
Starts at the Van Wyck Lane Trailhead
Description
We are inviting you to join us in supporting veteran causes by running or walking in a live, in-person race at 8:00AM.
Benefiting Wappinger Hometown Heroes Projects
Packet Pick-Up
Friday, April 4, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Wappinger Town Hall, 20 Middlebush Rd, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
Place
Van Wyck trail parking, next to 3 Van Wyck Ln, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
Van Wyck Ln
Wappingers Falls, NY US 12590
Town of Wappinger Earth Day Cleanup
Saturday, April 25, 2026
Town of Wappinger Town Hall
10am-2pm
This event is open to Residents and non-residents. Cleanup involves a variety of tasks available including:
-Roadside Cleanup
-Park Cleanup
-Small Scale planting/weeding/landscaping
Meet up at 10am at Town Hall to check in and receive supplies
Please Register by clicking the button below and please complete a registration for each person that will be coming..
Friends of Carnwath
Second Saturday Stewardship
2nd Saturdays (April through October)
9am-11am
Volunteers needed to plant, weed, prune, mulch while learing, connecting, growing, and enjoying the park. Water will be provided and tools are limited. The Friends of Carnwath organization encourages you to bring your own gloves and tools. Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs to protect your skin.
If interested, please scan the QR code to sign up.
Dutchess County to Host Annual
Earth Day Event on April 18th
The Dutchess County Division of Solid Waste Management and the Environmental Cooperative at the Vassar Barn will once again celebrate Earth Day with a free, family-friendly event on Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., designed to educate, engage and inspire residents of all ages to take part in protecting the environment. This annual celebration, held at 50 Vassar Farm Lane in Poughkeepsie, will feature interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, opportunities to connect with local organizations dedicated to sustainability and conservation, information about volunteer opportunities.
Attendees can take part in a variety of activities and educational opportunities, including:
- Hands-on projects, such as nature journaling and seed ball creation;
- Demonstrations on recycling, composting and reducing household waste;
- Exhibits highlighting energy conservation and sustainable practices;
- Information about local ecosystems, wildlife and pollinator protection;
- Guided nature walks through the Preserve at Vassar; and
- Engagement with local environmental groups, businesses and government agencies
A full list of event participants is available online.
Hughsonville Community Clean Up
Meeting Location: Obercreek Farm Stand
81 New Hamburgh Rd
Saturday, April 18, 9am
Please join in keeping Hughsonville clean and Beautiful! The clean up team will be cleaning from the Bridge by Old Troy Road to the Light on Route 9.
Safety Vests and Bags will be provided, please bring your own gloves.
Friends of Carnwath
Family Yoga
The Chapel at Carnwath Farms
81 Carnwath Farms Lane
Saturday, April 18, 9am-10am
Please come join us at this FREE event! You must register before April 5 by scanning the QR code below. Space is limited and donations are appreciated.
Rotary Club of Wappingers Falls
Touch a Truck Event
Sunday, April 19, 2026 (Rain Date 4/26)
Brexel-Schlathaus Park
12-4pm
Touch A Truck provides a unique opportunity for children and families to explore all types of vehicles used by community businesses and volunteers. Children are allowed to touch their favorite vehicles, get behind the wheel and meet the people who help build, protect, and serve our community. Rides, vendors, food trucks, music and kid-friends activites will also be part of the day.
Touch a Truch will provide an excellent opportunity for sponsors to showcase their business and interact with some of the youngest consumers (and their parents) in Dutchess County.
Questions?
Call Cindy Latino @ 845-489-6478 or Email: Platino711@aol.com
Town of Wappinger & Carnwath Community Farming Present
Maple Syrup Candy Making
The Chapel at Carnwath Farms
81 Carnwath Farms Lane
Sunday, April 26, 2026
1pm-3pm
Join the Town of Wappinger Parks & Recreation and Carnwath Community Farming for Maple Syrup Candy Making! Maple Syrup is sourced locally!
Free Event! Registration is required! All ages are welcome!
Town of Wappinger Presents an American Girl Tea Party
The Chapel at Carnwath Farms
81 Carnwath Farms Lane
Saturday, May 2, 2026
1pm-3pm
Girls will have fun dancing, making crafts, and making friends while enjoying light bites! There will be vendors, as well as raffles for Samantha and Raquel, the 2026 Dolls of the Year. Also, a few other surprises!
$30 per ticket
For tickets call: Sara 845-242-3911
Location: The Chapel at Carnwath Farms
81 Carnwath Farms Lane, Wappingers Falls NY 12590
Each child must be accompanied by an adult and each must purchase a ticket. Tickets are sold in advance and are non refundable. Reservations are required and must be finalized by payment before event.
Carnwath Community Farming
Spring Into Action Event
Calling all Volunteers
Saturday, May 2, 1-3pm
Spring is waking up at Carnwath and the Community Farming team is looking for helping hands as we clean up, prep garden spaces, and get the park ready for the growing season ahead.
No Experience is needed, just a love for fresh air, community, and being a part of something meaningful. Come for an hour or stay a while. Every bit helps!
Roy C Ketcham
5k Color Run/Walk to Benefit
Chapter 144 Disabled American Veterans
Sunday, May 17, 2026
Registration begins at 10:00am
SK Run/Walk starts at 11 :00
Please click the button below to be linked to a fillable PDF form which can be filled out to sign up and Walk or Run this event!
Early Entry Fee by May 4:
Adults $25 | Children (up to 14) & Students $15
Entry Fee AFTER May 4:
Adults $30 | Children (up to 14) & Students $20
Please print legibly / complete the entire entry form. More than one entry may be mailed together with appropriate fees (Each individual must have a separate entry form -cash or check). Please make checks payable to RCK Student Activities, in memo put NHS. Students can drop off in an envelope to room 333. To mail in a form and registration fee use the address below:
MAIL FORM(S) and ENTRY FEES TO:
RCK RACE ATTENTION/ NHS
99 Myers Corners RD Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
|
|
2026 WAPPINGER COMMUNITY DAY
SATURDAY, MAY 16TH
PARADE BEGINS - 12PM
📍BREXEL-SCHLATHAUS PARK
Join us for a fun filled day with a parade, food trucks, vendors and more!
We will also be celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the Founding of the United States of America!
|
|
TOWN OF WAPPINGER
LOCAL NEWS
Wappinger Town Unanimously Approves Historic Acquisition to Preserve 326-Acre Cranberry Hills Property
Wappinger, NY — In a landmark decision that will shape the future of the Town for generations, the Wappinger Town Board voted unanimously to acquire and permanently preserve the 326-acre property known as Cranberry Hills—ending nearly 50 years of uncertainty and protecting the community from large-scale development.
For decades, Cranberry Hills has been at the center of repeated development proposals dating back to 1976, when 473 units were first proposed. Most recently, plans called for as many as 1,200 multi-family units, projects that would have dramatically altered the character, infrastructure, and quality of life across the Town.
“When I first took office, Wappinger was at a crossroads,” said Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavaccini. “We were facing an unprecedented wave of development proposals—thousands of units moving through the pipeline with little regard for long-term impact. Cranberry Hills was at the center of that threat.”
In response, the Town swiftly enacted a development moratorium and adopted targeted legislative changes to its Comprehensive Plan, successfully preventing nearly 6,000 housing units from being constructed across Wappinger—including the high-density Cranberry Hills proposal.
However, with the Town’s moratorium set to expire this April, officials warned that “as-of-right” development—specifically a 150-home subdivision—could proceed as early as June without further intervention.
Supervisor Cavaccini went on to say, “Our investment in Cranberry Hills represents the greatest opportunity to positively impact the most residents, while also addressing one of the greatest potential risks to our Town if left to development. The Town Board can plan its future, or have its future planned for them by developers.
Personally, I ran to be your Town Supervisor to ensure that we proactively plan for our future and safeguard our community. We get to decide what we want. I am looking forward to working alongside each and every one of you to make this a reality.”
A Once-in-a-Generation Investment
The acquisition of Cranberry Hills represents a proactive and transformative solution—one that not only prevents overdevelopment but positions the Town to thoughtfully plan for its future.
A critical distinction of this acquisition is that it places no burden on Town residents. Unlike residential development, the property remains within the non-homestead (commercial) tax base, meaning it does not impact the residential tax levy. At the same time, it does not generate additional demand on schools, EMS, or critical infrastructure. In essence, this represents “clean revenue” for the Town—providing financial benefit with virtually no associated service costs.
By preserving the land, the Town avoids significant long-term impacts, including:
Approximately 1,500 additional daily car trips
60–90 EMS calls annually
45–75 fire calls annually
75–100 new students entering the school system
45,000 gallons per day in water demand
“These are permanent cost drivers that our taxpayers will never have to absorb,” Cavaccini emphasized.
Financial analysis presented to the Board further demonstrated that development would likely result in a break-even scenario at best—or up to a $200,000 annual deficit—while preservation carries only minimal, controlled costs.
Aligning with Community Vision
The decision to preserve Cranberry Hills is firmly rooted in the Town’s Comprehensive Plan, which explicitly calls for the protection of this land. Additionally, the Dutchess County Route 93 Corridor Management Plan warned of the severe traffic, school, and infrastructure impacts associated with development at this site.
“This is not just about stopping something—it’s about creating something better,” Cavaccini said. “This is our opportunity to establish a ‘Central Park of Wappinger’—a space that connects neighborhoods, enhances quality of life, and serves as a lasting asset for generations to come.”
Town officials noted that the site’s central location and size make it uniquely suited for preservation and community use, offering opportunities for passive recreation, pedestrian connectivity, and environmental stewardship.
Senior Councilman William H. Beale, who represents the First Ward noted, “This monumental land acquisition occurred after research, public discussion, and risk-benefit analysis. I proudly support the concept of a “central park” in the Town of Wappinger and look forward to what the future brings.”
Second Ward Councilwoman Heather O’Dell said, “Cranberry Hills may be one of the most important long-term decisions we make, and it is an extraordinary opportunity for Wappinger. More than 300 acres of open space, wetlands, and forest do not come back once they’re gone, and if we have the chance to preserve it, we should take that responsibility seriously. This is about protecting the character, resilience, and future of Wappinger. Preserving Cranberry Hills is a rare chance for Wappinger to act responsibly, protect public safety, and make a decision we will be proud of for years to come.”
Third Ward Councilman Christopher Phillips shared, “This 326-acre acquisition is a direct result of responsible leadership and a clear commitment to protecting Wappinger’s future. We are delivering real results—preserving open space, strengthening property values, and enhancing quality of life for our residents. By securing these 326 acres, we are making a smart, forward-thinking investment in Wappinger—balancing growth with preservation while ensuring taxpayer dollars are used to create lasting public benefit.”
Fourth Ward Councilman Al Casella stated, "On Monday Night, March 23rd, The Town Board made a great decision to preserve open space and protect the community from over development with the purchase of Cranberry Hills. The residents came out in full support of the purchase which was very much appreciated. The purchase will save the town significant infrastructure costs that would have been incurred if the property was developed. The visions for this property are many and we need to ensure we take the time to plan properly to ensure we maintain the same community life style that the residents want. I want to thank Town Supervisor, Joey Cavaccini for his stewardship in bringing this project to completion with full support of the board."
Commitment to Affordability
Town leadership also emphasized that the acquisition has been pursued responsibly, with a focus on minimizing taxpayer burden through grant funding, alternative revenue sources, and direct negotiation with the property owner.
“Our administration has worked tirelessly to secure funding and maintain Wappinger as one of the most affordable towns in Dutchess County,” Cavaccini said. “This investment reflects those same principles—protecting our residents today while planning responsibly for tomorrow.”
A Defining Moment for Wappinger
With this unanimous vote, the Wappinger Town Board has taken decisive action to eliminate a long-standing threat and secure a lasting benefit for the entire community.
“For 50 years, residents have lived with the uncertainty of what might be built at Cranberry Hills,” Cavaccini concluded. “Tonight, we bring that chapter to a close—and open a new one defined by preservation, planning, and pride in our community.”
Wappinger Town Highway Department to Repave and Reconstruct 20 Town Owned Roads Starting Monday, April 13, 2026
Wappinger, NY — The Town of Wappinger Highway Department will begin its annual paving program starting Monday, April 13, 2026, with work expected to continue through the spring season.
Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavaccini, the Wappinger Town Board, and Superintendent of Highways Michael J. Sheehan are proud to announce the repaving and improvement of 20 town-owned roadways, totaling approximately 4.64 miles.
The Town of Wappinger remains committed to investing in its infrastructure and enhancing roadway conditions throughout the community. This year’s paving schedule reflects ongoing efforts to improve safety, extend the life of local roadways, and ensure a smoother travel experience for residents.
The Highway Department will notify residents on impacted roadways prior to the start of work. Notifications will include posted signage along affected streets to alert motorists and residents of upcoming paving operations.
Residents on impacted roadways are advised to avoid parking on the street during paving operations and are encouraged to use caution when traveling through active work zones. Every effort will be made to minimize disruptions; however, temporary delays may occur.
For questions or additional information, please contact the Wappinger Town Highway Department at 845-297-9451.
Roadwork Projects:
• Ardmore Drive – Ward 3 – 0.40 miles
• Aspen Court – Ward 3 – 0.05 miles
• Aster Hill Road – Ward 4 – 0.14 miles
• Baker Court – Ward 4 – 0.10 miles
• Blackthorn Loop – Ward 3 – 0.35 miles
• Cooper Road – Ward 2 – 0.45 miles
• Eck Road – Ward 2 – 0.30 miles
• Glenbrook Court – Ward 4 – 0.09 miles
• Granger Place – Ward 3 – 0.10 miles
• Hearthstone Road – Ward 4 – 0.05 miles
• Lane Gate Road – Ward 4 – 0.40 miles
• Marlyn Drive – Ward 2 – 0.15 miles
• Namoth Road – Ward 4 – 0.25 miles
• Pattie Place – Ward 3 – 0.20 miles
• Primrose Court – Ward 3 – 0.05 miles
• Rosewood Court – Ward 3 – 0.05 miles
• Russ Place – Ward 3 – 0.11 miles
• Sgt Palmateer Way (partial) – Ward 1 – 0.45 miles
• Stonewall Drive – Ward 4 – 0.30 miles
• Wildwood Drive – Ward 3 – 0.65 miles
Total Miles: 4.64 miles
|
|
Wappinger Town Celebrates the Grand Reopening of Town Senior Center
Thanks to a $75,000 grant our Administration secured from Dutchess County Government, we were able to completely reimagine this space to better serve our growing senior community. From our new kitchen, restrooms, floors, expanded footprint, lighting and more; what was once a
|
|
|
single-room program has grown into multiple locations across our town, reflecting the incredible increase from just 130 members when I took office to 316 active senior residents today!
This project is a true team effort. We extend our sincere thanks to our dedicated Town of Wappinger workforce especially our Buildings & Grounds Department for their craftsmanship and hard work, and our Parks & Recreation Department for their passion and creativity in building meaningful, engaging programming for our seniors. It was especially meaningful to share this moment with so many of our neighbors, especially former Town Supervisor Connie Smith, whose actions under her administration laid the foundation for what we are building upon today.
Projects like this truly warm my heart. I am proud of the work we are doing to expand services and ensure that Wappinger continues to be a place where residents of all ages can live, connect, and thrive.
PLEASE ENJOY OUR TOWN OF WAPPINGER SENIOR ENRICHMENT NEWSLETTER FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL, 2026
At the Town of Wappinger, we’re invested in the enrichment of our seniors, the wellness of the community, creating new friendships, and having fun! We have art class, bingo, bocce, book club, bridge club, bus trips, chair volleyball, chair yoga, chess, educational seminars, exercise class, gardening club, knitting & crochet group, lunch and a movie, mahjongg, Mexican trains, monthly crafts, monthly birthday parties, pinochle, pokeno, quilting, rummikub, zumba, and so much more! Feel free to stop in at any time and find out what new and exciting events are happening at our
program!
|
|
“Wappinger, what were you like in the 90’s?”
We decided to hop on the 90’s trend and dive into our archives to find these timeless videos and pictures from around our Town.
Featured are clips from Community Day parades, Summer Camp, Senior Center opening, Town picnics, opening of the Emergency Services Building, and more!
|
|
With warmer weather around the corner means an increase in unauthorized solicitation signs being placed throughout the Town of Wappinger.
Please be advised that signage is not permitted on Town-owned property or along Town/County/State roadways.
Signs such solicitations (ex. “We Buy Houses”) and other advertisements may only be placed on private property with the landowner’s permission.
We appreciate the community’s cooperation in helping keep our Town properties clean, safe, and properly maintained.
|
|
Town of Wappinger Celebrates an incredible group of women at our Women of Distinction event at Town Hall. 💐
We were proud to recognize 15 Women of Distinction, each of whom has made a meaningful impact on our community through their dedication, leadership, and service.
|
|
|
Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavaccini, Second Ward Councilwoman Heather O’Dell, and Fourth Ward Councilman Al Casella were honored to be there to celebrate these remarkable women.
Thank you to all of the guests who joined us to support such an inspiring group.
Congratulations again to all of our Women of Distinction—you truly make Wappinger stronger. ✨
|
|
Celebrating 10 years of Ulster Savings Bank at their Town of Wappinger location! 🎉✂️
Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavaccini joined Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino, Fourth Ward Councilman Al Casella, and a representative from Senator Rob Rolison’s office, who presented a certificate in honor of this milestone.
|
|
|
We were proud to celebrate alongside Rocco Pucino, First Vice President of Ulster Savings Bank, and Branch Manager Valerie Belton, recognizing a decade of service and commitment to our community.
Ulster Savings Bank also marked the occasion with a generous donation to the Grace Smith House, continuing their support for those in need across the region.
Congratulations on 10 years of growth, connection, and local impact—cheers to many more!
|
|
2026 Town of Wappinger Egg Hunt
Yesterday was a great day as we hosted our annual Town of Wappinger Easter Egg Hunt at Robinson Lane Baseball Complex where over a thousand of our youngest residents were able to participate in gathering over 10,000 eggs, games, crafts, raffles, and an opportunity to visit the Easter Bunny!🐣
Special shout out to our Town’s volunteers and employees that contribute to making our events such as great success!
|
|
Wappinger Celebrates National Employee Appreciation Day and the Incredible People Who Keep Our Town Running Each Day
The Town of Wappinger is proud to have a dedicated workforce of over 100 employees across 20 departments, offices, and divisions who serve our residents with professionalism, pride, and commitment. From maintaining our parks and infrastructure, to providing essential public services, to supporting our residents at Town Hall; our employees perform valuable fucntions to keep our community moving.
To say thank you, Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavaccini and Secretary to the Supervisor Kaitlyn Aboshanab hosted a surprise breakfast and lunch for our staff at Town Hall today as a small token of appreciation for their hard work and dedication.
We are grateful every day for the people who make Wappinger such a special place to live, work, and raise a family. Thank you to our entire team for all that you do! 👏🇺🇸
#EmployeeAppreciationDay #TeamWappinger
|
|
|
Town of Wappinger Celebrates Saint Patrick's Day During the Parade in the Village of Wappingers Falls
Thousands of spectators gathered for the 31st Dutchess County St. Patrick’s Parade in the downtown streets of the Village of Wappingers Falls!
Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavaccini, Senior Councilman William H. Beale, and the Wappinger Town Board are proud to present this special event to you through WappingerTV!
|
|
🎉 Wappinger honored to proclaim Evelyn Faber Day in the Town of Wappinger in celebration of Evelyn’s 101st birthday!
Evelyn, a resident of South Mesier Avenue, has lived a remarkable life and continues to be a cherished member of our community. It was a pleasure to stop by and wish her a very happy birthday alongside my fellow members of Lafayette Lodge No. 18, IOOF in sharing in this special milestone.
On behalf of the entire Town of Wappinger, we wish Evelyn a very happy 101st birthday!
|
|
Town of Wappinger Takes Part in "Dress Down Day", Spreading Awareness for Sparrow's Nest Charity
Many residents joined our Wappinger Town Government employees and officials joined residents taking part in "Dress Down Day" to help spread awareness for Sparrow's Nest, a local charity focused on providing homemade meals to families facing a cancer diagnosis.
Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavaccini was proud to declare today, March 27 th as “Sparrow’s Nest Day” in the Town of Wappinger and joins the Town Board in encouraging all residents to learn more about this noble organization at sparrowsnestcharity.org
|
|
|
|
|
