Mayor’s Corner – May 2025

I’m pleased to announce that four bids were submitted for the South End Water and Sewer Infrastructure Project. The bids were highly favorable, and we are confident the Village of Menands can complete the entire project with the funding we received, rather than in phases. Work is expected to begin in late May or early June. This $12 million project will upgrade Menands’ South End’s water, sewer, and roadway infrastructure.

I’m part of a working group comprising several municipalities and transportation organizations, focused on reimagining and improving the vital New York State Route 32 (Broadway) corridor. A draft plan is currently being finalized, reflecting nearly a year’s worth of collaborative work. A formal presentation will be shared soon, and the public will have an opportunity to comment on the proposed improvements along the Broadway corridor.

The Board of Trustees unanimously approved the 2025–2026 Village Budget on April 7, 2025. This year’s tax rate increase is 2.64%, which remains below the 10-year average of 2.69%. While the rate increased slightly, the tax levy declined under the New York State Comptroller’s formula, meaning the budget stays within the state-mandated tax cap (NYS GML §97-3-c). We are also proud to share that we were able to add $230,000 to the Village’s reserve fund—our financial “rainy day” savings—to help maintain long-term fiscal stability.

In mid-April, we began site work at 250 Broadway to expand the parking areas and add additional spaces at the rear of the building for our police department. This will help ensure that the front of the building has adequate parking available for the public when needed, including ADA-accessible spaces for those who require them. This project is being funded through a New York State SAM grant provided by Assemblyman Phil Steck’s office.