With Stissing Lake Beach temporarily closed last week due to unsafe water conditions, Pine Plains town officials are exploring long-term solutions — including the possibility of building a community pool.
“This has been talked about in the community for years,” Recreation Director Brian Coons said at the Town Board’s July 17 meeting. Coons raised the idea of constructing a town pool, suggesting the lake could then be designated as a “swim at your own risk” area. “I think we should sit down, get a map, come up with some ideas, and start looking at grants and possibilities,” he said.
The closure followed a failed water quality test that showed elevated levels of enterococci, a bacteria associated with fecal matter and decaying organic material. Water quality is typically assessed using the average of shallow- and deep-water samples, but Coons said the Dutchess County Department of Health failed to take a deep-water sample during the last round. “The thresholds are at 60 parts per million. We were at 61,” he said.
Town lifeguards have been cleaning the beach daily, but environmental challenges persist — including domestic duck droppings and decaying material from the lakebed. Coons and Recreation Coordinator Jen Blackburn recommended purchasing an aeration machine to improve circulation and reduce bacterial growth.
Officials also praised Trevor Roush for donating materials and labor to build a fence along the town’s newly designated open swim area and acknowledged Conservation Advisory Council Chair Gail Mellow for her role in coordinating lake maintenance efforts.
A meeting will be scheduled with lifeguards, recreation staff, and swim organizers to clarify roles and safety responsibilities before the swim area reopens. “The health and safety of our residents, visitors, and people coming to enjoy [the lake] is a priority for us,” Coons said.
During the meeting, Supervisor Brian Walsh appointed board member Robert Ambrose to serve as interim town supervisor — a new role created in June when the board voted to eliminate the traditional deputy supervisor position in favor of requiring the post be held by a sitting board member. Walsh had previously opposed the change, along with Ambrose, in a 3–2 split vote.
In other business, the board unanimously approved a letter of support for a Dutchess Land Conservancy application to preserve 131 acres of farmland at Globe Hill Farm on Schultz Hill Road. The property, owned by Helene Marsh and leased to Chaseholm Farm, includes wetlands, prime agricultural soils, and a tributary to Shekomeko Creek. If awarded, the conservation easement would prevent development while keeping the land in private hands and available for long-term agricultural use.
Town Attorney Warren Replansky called the town’s existing dumpster regulations “confusing” and said a revised law is expected in August. The updated law would require permanent dumpsters in the business district to be screened from public view.
“It’s the dumpsters mainly in the town center that are not screened,” said board member Jeanine Sisco. Supervisor Walsh agreed: “It’s unsightly.” Coons added, “We want people to come to town, buy properties, walk around, hang out — and you’re looking at ugly dumpsters.”
The board accepted the resignation of Sergeant Michael Beliveau from the Police Department and approved a series of promotions and raises recommended by Officer in Charge John Hughes. Corporal Steven Camburn was promoted to sergeant, and Officer Brent Blauvelt to corporal. Aaron Fantroy and all other department members also received a $1-per-hour raise. The board additionally approved the hiring of Brian Johnson, who will attend the police academy.
The Highway Department announced plans to install speed signs and chevrons on Hoffman Road. Dutchess County is expected to begin milling and paving North Main Street as early as Friday, July 17.
Conservation Advisory Council Chair Gail Mellow requested the board’s support in applying for a $53,000 grant to fund a Natural Resource Inventory. The board agreed to provide a letter of support and necessary documentation. Mellow also reported that invasive aquatic weeds had recently been removed from Stissing Lake using hand-pulling methods, and a benthic barrier was installed to prevent regrowth.
The Beautification Committee announced plans to repaint 50 downtown lampposts and relocate or redesign the “Welcome to Pine Plains” sign currently positioned near Stewart’s. A fresh coat of paint is also planned for the informational kiosk at the town park.
Also discussed were the town’s application for Climate Smart Community designation, a sidewalk assessment by Precision Safe Sidewalks, and progress on the design of a new Town Hall building. Kevin Walsh was appointed Climate Smart coordinator.
The board adjourned after approving stipends for the summer camp medical advisor and checks for upcoming camp field trips.
The next Pine Plains Town Board meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 21.
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