■ Mayor Kathleen Foley, at the Wednesday (Oct. 9) meeting of the Village Board, reported that she, Philipstown Supervisor John Van Tassel and Nelsonville Mayor Chris Winward recently met with Tracy Brown, the president of Riverkeeper, to discuss that organization’s position on the proposed Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail. Foley said Brown indicated that, after reviewing initial design proposals, Riverkeeper expressed concern to HHFT regarding the potential impact on wildlife and habitat, including from pilings and shade created by walkways. Riverkeeper had served on the HHFT Steering Committee, but that committee is no longer being convened, Foley said.

■ The Cold Spring Police Department plans to partner with the Philipstown Behavioral Health Hub on a training program for officers who encounter people suffering from mental health issues. The department also will work with the Philipstown Volunteer Ambulance Corps on follow-up procedures. 

■ Police officers responded to 198 calls in September, including 33 traffic stops, 17 medical assists, five motor vehicle crashes and five noise complaints. 

â–  The Cold Spring Fire Co. answered 19 calls in September, including three mountain rescues, two river incidents and a structure fire. The volunteer company recently added seven members. Chief Jeff Phillips Jr. reminded residents to ensure that their addresses are clearly marked and visible from the street.

â–  The board approved a Planning Board recommendation to create a $3,500 fee for building permits for subdivisions.

Behind The Story

Type: News

News: Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.

Michael Turton has been a reporter with The Current since its founding, after working in the same capacity at the Putnam County News & Recorder. Turton spent 20 years as community relations supervisor for the Essex Region Conservation Authority in Ontario before his move in 1998 to Philipstown, where he handled similar duties at Glynwood Farm and The Hastings Center. The Cold Spring resident holds degrees in environmental studies from the University of Waterloo, in education from the University of Windsor and in communication arts from St. Clair College.