From the Desk of Rick McCabe

To the residents of East GreenbushIt looks like we may have made it through the winter, I hope this didn’t jinx it.  As we look forward to Spring, I would like to inform you on a new number of happenings.

• We are pleased to announce a $225,000 grant to install a photovoltaic system at the DPW garage.  I would like to thank Joe Cherubino and Jim Moore for their foresight and working to obtain this grant from the NYS.  The project, when completed will save the town between 10 and 12 thousand dollars a year in energy costs.

• As mentioned previously, we have also obtained a $400,000 grant from the State.  The monies will be used for cleanup, MS4 work and other upgrades for Hampton Manor Lake

• In the theme of grants, we are working with the State on a number of issues on the Route 4 Corridor.  The town in conjunction with Department of Transportation are finalizing plans for roundabouts and improvements on that very busy highway.

• I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Jim Moore (again).  He has been working on a partnership with IBM for major computer upgrades.

• A special thanks to our police department.  The force is a little short of man power because of a number of issues, but the have bonded together and have done a great job in protecting our residences.

Seniors, lets embrace the beginning of Spring by holding a potluck luncheon to be held:

Date: Wednesday, April 14th
Time: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Place: East Greenbush Library

Bring your favorite dish! Coffee, tea, soda and water will be provided. Call Carmela Hicks at the East Greenbush Town Hall to reserve a spot. 477-4775.

As Spring Approaches, we ask that you please remember how everyday activites can have an affect on stormwater and our environment.

What is Stormwater?

Stormwater is water from rain or melting snow that doesn't soak into the ground but runs off into waterways. It flows from rooftops, over paved areas and bare soil, and through sloped lawns while picking up a variety of materials on its way. The quality of runoff is affected by a variety of factors and depends on the season, local meteorology, geography and upon activities which lie in the path of the flow.

Whats the Problem?

As it flows, stormwater runoff collects and transports pollutants to surface waters.

As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Town of East Greenbush has been awarded a grant in the amount of $275,000 for the purchase and installation of a 50 kW Photovoltaic System at the Department of Public Works garage. This system will produce approximately 67% of the annual energy required to run the facility and an estimated maximum annual cost savings of $14,783. The project will benefit the environment with annual emission reductions of:

1. CO₂: 55,876 lbs
2. SO₂: 180 lbs
3. N₂0: 62.74 lbs

Upon completion, the performance and environmental impact of this project will be posted on the town’s website for the public to monitor.

It’s NOT too late!  You may be eligible for an Exemption on your property – the deadline to file is March 1, 2010.

Residential STAR (Basic) is available to all property owners, regardless of age or income.  To be eligible, applicant must own and reside on the property, as of March 1, 2010.

 Proof of residency is required.

 Enhanced STAR (Senior) is available to those property owners, who are 65 years of age or older and for property owners who will be 65 years of age in 2010.  Single and combined incomes cannot exceed $74,700 on the 2008 Federal Adjusted Gross Income Tax Return. 

 Proof of residency is required.

Partial Tax Exemption of Aged Persons is available to those property owners, who are 65 years of age and for property owners who will be 65 years of age in the 2010 year.  Single and combined incomes of husband and wife cannot exceed a 2009 Gross Income of $37,400. (Income includes wages, pensions, and social security – contact your Department of Assessment for more details.)

 Proof of Residency is required.

Persons with Disabilities and Limited Incomes

No age requirement –income requirement is the same as the partial tax exemption of aged persons.  Proof of Residency is required. Proof of disability required is:  Benefit Letter from the Social Security Administration, Certificate from the State Commission for the Blind or Award letters from the US Postal Service, Railroad Retirement Board or Department of Veterans Affairs.

For further details on the above information or to inquire about other types of exemptions, please call Susan F. McCarthy, Assessor at 518-477-9710