The Ancram Town Board held its final meeting of the year on Dec. 19, covering a range of updates in just under an hour. Much of the discussion centered on repairs to the Town Hall roof, which has been plagued by leaks caused by moss and moisture accumulating under solar panels installed in 2012.
The Town Board is in receipt of a contractor’s bid for $36,000 to cover roof repairs, with an additional potential cost of $38,500 for the removal and reinstallation of the solar panels. The panels, still operating at 98% efficiency, prompted a debate among board members and the public about whether it would be more cost-effective to delay reinstallation, upgrade to newer technology or forgo the panels entirely.
The board also agreed to gather more information about hiring a grant writer to pursue funding for initiatives such as affordable housing and refurbishing the town pool.
Board member Bonnie Hundt noted that Assemblymember Didi Barrett’s office is considering a grant proposal to fund renovations to Blass Field. Meanwhile, board member Amy Gold has been in touch with Barrett’s office and Central Hudson regarding improvements at the intersection of routes 82 and 7, including enhanced stop signage, road striping and potential relocation of a utility pole. Supervisor Jim MacArthur has been coordinating with the County Department of Transportation on the project.
The Highway Department reported the arrival of a new mower, though the delivery of a new pickup truck remains delayed.
MacArthur shared concerns about CDPHP Insurance, which covers some town employees, noting that a dispute with the state could necessitate finding a new provider if unresolved by March.
Financially, the town ended the year on a strong note. The board reallocated funds to cover overages in some accounts while maintaining a balanced 2024 budget. Property taxes are set to decrease slightly in 2025, and the town closes the year with a cash reserve of more than $1.5 million.
In a change affecting all Ancram residents using the Route 82 waste station for recycling, 2025 permits will no longer be sold at the Town Hall. Recycling permits will be available at the waste station on Route 82, according to officials.
