In Kent, health care and infrastructure were priorities

KENT — Despite COVID-19 and its disruptions, the town made measurable progress in 2021 on several fronts.

Early in the year, the town agreed to engage with the SustainableCT program, appointing a team to pursue the goals leading to certification. Meeting those goals may make the town eligible for funding to support town environmental initiatives. The team’s work will continue into the new year.

The historic Swift House received attention to its roof and chimney, both of which had been in serious need of repair. The projects were completed before the end of the year, protecting against further weather damage to the landmark building.

The closing of Kent Primary Care was a huge concern for the town this year, as selectmen weighed various options. By the end of the year, the best option appeared to be providing reliable transportation for those who need medical care.

Emergency Management Services (EMS) staff evaluated what would be needed to bring the town into compliance with state regulations requiring that each town have a viable current plan. The selectmen agreed to use ARPA funds to support the work of updating the existing plans and adding a mandated pandemic plan, as well as equipping EMS space at the firehouse.

Training for volunteers is also included for maximized readiness.

Use of ARPA Funds was also approved to install equipment  for hybrid meetings in the Town Hall meeting room.

Related Articles Around the Web

Latest News

Blues and bloodlines: The Devon Allman Project at Infinity Hall Norfolk

Devon Allman

Venla Shalin

On Friday, Aug. 15, The Devon Allman Project will play Infinity Hall in Norfolk. As the son of the legendary musician Gregg Allman, Devon carries on the family tradition while stepping out on his own.

“We’re honored to keep the tradition alive,” said Allman. “But I don’t play my records and try to compare them to records from 50 years ago. I try to write songs that mean something to me, and hopefully they’ll resonate with other people.”

Keep ReadingShow less
Construction on Main Street disrupts traffic, shuts down water

Fire hydrant replacements in the village disrupted water service for businesses on Main Street.

Photo by Aly Morrissey

MILLERTON — Construction on Main Street last week disrupted traffic as crews worked to replace an outdated fire hydrant next to Oakhurst Diner.

The scheduled maintenance, which continued into this week, was part of a 2019 grant awarded by the New York State Department of Health under the Water Infrastructure Improvement Act. Since then, the village has been upgrading undersized, damaged and outdated hydrants. A total of 25 hydrants have been replaced.

Keep ReadingShow less
Moviehouse grant totals $150,000 for capital projects

The Millerton Moviehouse was granted $150,000 for HVAC repairs. Moviehouse owner David Maltby said the repairs were needed as the HVAC system in the building is 40 years old.

Photo by Aly Morrissey

MILLERTON — The Millerton Moviehouse announced last week that it received a $150,000 grant from State Senator Michelle Hinchey (D-41). Moviehouse Chair Chelsea Altman and Co-Chair David Maltby accepted the check alongside town supervisor Chris Kennan and Senator Hinchey.

The funds will be allocated toward HVAC repairs that were completed in April, a crucial part of ongoing capital projects necessary for maintaining the historic 120-year-old building.

Keep ReadingShow less
Truitt to challenge Aymar-Blair for Comptroller seat

Republican County Comptroller candidate Will Truitt currently serves as the chair of the Dutchess County Legislature.

Photo provided

Republican Will Truitt of Hyde Park is facing off against Democrat Dan Aymar-Blair for the county comptroller seat in the Nov. 4 election.

Truitt currently serves as the chair of the Dutchess County Legislature and has served as Hyde Park and Pleasant Valley’s representative in the legislating body for the past ten years.

Keep ReadingShow less