Honoring Dr. Smith, new board member, senior citizen tax cuts, upcoming events
From Jim Ninos, Mayor
As the seasons change, it’s clear that fall is coming to a close and winter, with its snowy weather, is on the horizon. Our leaf pickup services have concluded, and we’re preparing our snowplows to keep our roads clear and safe in the coming months.
On November 11, 2024, Alfred University Campus came together to celebrate Veterans Day. I was profoundly humbled to host this event, and I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Doctor Angie Taylor, our Chief Diversity Officer, and Andrew Berlingame, Coordinator of Veterans Affairs, for inviting me to share a brief history of Alfred’s military dedication, spanning from 1811 to this very day.
As Mayor of this cherished Village, it was my distinct honor to recognize the indomitable Doctor Stuart (Stu) Smith. Before our gathered community, I presented a proclamation of heartfelt appreciation for his service during the trying times of World War II. Dr. Smith stands as the last surviving veteran of that great conflict still with us in the Village. Today and every day, we hold him in our highest esteem.
To all our veterans, both those with us and those in memory, I speak for the entire Village when I say: thank you. Thank you for your unwavering service, for the profound sacrifices you made, for the freedom you secured for us and for generations yet to come. Your selflessness is the bedrock upon which our nation stands tall. May we always remember, may we never forget, the debt of gratitude we owe you.
We’re nearing the completion of our important infrastructure project, which involves running a new water line from Alfred Station (Rt. 244) to the intersection of North Main Street in the village. While this work is crucial for our community’s growth and development, it may cause some traffic delays in the short term. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding as we finish this project.
The Village has approved the annual police protection agreement with the town. This agreement, which is negotiated and agreed upon each year by the town and village boards, ensures that our community continues to receive the law enforcement services we need.
At the recent board meeting, mileage reimbursement for employees was updated. The mileage rate has been increased from $0.58 to $0.67 per mile, effective immediately.
We’re pleased to announce that Elizabeth Gulacsy has accepted the position of alternate board member. In this role, Elizabeth will fill in when one of the seven board members are unable to attend a meeting, ensuring that we always have a full board to make important decisions for our community.
At our November 13th meeting, the board unanimously approved maintaining the partial tax exemption for persons over 65 with limited incomes. This exemption allows eligible seniors to pay taxes on only half of their assessed property value, except for special district taxes such as fire protection districts. We’re committed to supporting our senior residents, and we encourage those who may be eligible for this exemption to contact the village clerk for further information.
The Village has approved an agreement with the NYDOT to be subsidized for snow removal on North Main Street, which is within the jurisdiction of the State. This agreement will help us keep this important road clear and safe during the winter months.
Here are a few reminders of upcoming events within the village:
- Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024: at 6:00pm COMMUNITY CONVERSATION all invited. This meeting is an opportunity to hear from the presidents of Alfred University, Alfred State College, Superintendent of the Town, The Mayor of the Village, Officer in Charge of the Police Department, A.E. Crandall Hook and Ladder, Alfred-Almond Central School Superintendent, Alfred 21st Century Group, and open discussion.
- The AE Crandall Hook and Ladder Breakfast with Santa, December 7, 8:30 to 11:00. Location: The Fire Station. Bring your family for a fun morning with Santa!
- The Union University Luncheon will take place on December 13, from 11:00 to 1:00. All are invited. Location: the Church Center 4, Church Street. We hope to see you there for this annual celebration of our community.
Thank you for your ongoing support of our village. Please don’t hesitate to call the office at 607 587 9188 ext. 100 or email at mayorofalfred@gmail.com if you have any questions or need further information.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. We’re grateful for the opportunity to serve this great community.
The next board meeting is December 9, 2024 at 7:00pm in the Village Hall, 7 West University Street. All are welcome to attend.
