Proud of Our Progress: Reflections & Highlights from 2024

As we enter the new year and close the chapter on 2024, I reflect on an incredibly productive year as your Town Supervisor in Ausable. It’s been a journey marked by significant community enhancements, strategic planning, and a commitment to sustainable growth. Here’s a look at just a few of the things we’ve accomplished together:

1. Emergency Services Enhancement

The year kicked off with enhancements to the Clinton County Emergency Services, particularly focusing on renaming Pine Estates Circle to Maxwell Lane. This upgrade was crucial in ensuring better response times for residents.

2. Waterfront Park Completion

One of the highlights was the completion of the Waterfront Park Project. This beautification project not only added to the aesthetic appeal of our town but also laid the groundwork for its transfer from Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH) in early 2025, promising new recreational opportunities and breathtaking river views for our residents and tourists.

3. Grants and Funding

• CDBG Grant: Securing this grant was pivotal for community residential development projects.
• Pro-Housing Community Designation: This certification underscores our commitment to affordable housing and sustainable community growth.
• NY Forward Grant Application: Our joint application with the Town of Chesterfield signifies our proactive approach to securing funds ($4.5M) for further town improvements.
• NYSERDA Grant: With $15,000 awarded from the Clean Energy Communities program for the Highway Garage, we’re investing in energy efficiency, furthering our environmental goals.
• Restore NY (Round IV): The closeout documents for this $500,000 grant, used to provide a new roof for the civic center, was achieved.
• Restore NY (Round IX): Applied for another round of funding with the goal of new windows and doors for the civic center to help with heat retention and open up additional spaces within the building.

4. Community and Environmental Laws

• Dog Tethering Law: A step towards better animal welfare in our town. No longer will dogs be left tied up outside 24/7, year-round.
• Solar and Energy Storage Laws: These laws are crucial for guiding responsible development in renewable energy, aligning with our sustainability goals.
• Seasonal Parking Ban Law: Ensuring smooth winter operations and safety.

5. Cultural and Civic Enhancements

• APA Community Spotlight Presentation: Showcasing our town’s unique attributes and fostering a sense of community pride. PR
• Swing Bridge Award: Nearly $2M was awarded for the restoration of this unique historical treasure.
• White Knight Kennels Agreement: Ensuring ethical treatment of dogs in our jurisdiction.
• Civic Center: Numerous improvements like hallway painting, boiler installation, ADA Compliant stairlift to the gymnasium, and welcoming new tenants like Dynamix Fitness & Wellness, revitalizing this central community space.

6. Fiscal and Policy Adjustments

• ARPA Closeout: Effective management of recovery funds for our community’s benefit.
• Building Permit Fees Amended: Updated the fee structure, and streamlined processes for residents and developers alike.
• Senior Tax Exemption: Raising the Senior Tax Exemption to $35k was a significant policy move to support our elderly population, acknowledging their contributions and easing financial burdens.

7. Future Planning

• Complete Streets Walk Audit and Grant: This initiative with the Clinton County Health Department, along with the associated grant, focused on making our streets safer and more accessible for everyone, particularly those with mobility challenges.

This year has been about laying foundations for a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable Ausable. I am proud of what we’ve achieved together, and I look forward to another year of service, growth, and community spirit. Thank you for your trust and participation. Here’s to continuing our journey towards making Ausable an even better place to live, work, and play.

-Tim