Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Newburgh public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
3 issues in development with critical priority
Bourne and Kenney Apartments (Pennrose)
Councilmember Shakur discovered that part of the Bourne parking area — where crews were drilling and blocking handicapped spots — may sit on land the city gave to the Kenney development, not Pennrose. Pennrose says the broker's materials lacked a survey and the lender won't underwrite until the boundary is clarified. The city and developer are exchanging requests to resolve it.
Kearney Realty PILOT and development agreements
The Smith/Montgomery Streets redevelopment deal — with a PILOT tax agreement — is one step from a vote, with new attention on whether MWBE hiring promises are enforced for real.
Affordable housing conditions — Kenny Apartments and Varicks
Residents described cold apartments, no hot water, and fear of retaliation at the bankrupt Kenny Apartments and the Varicks. Councilmembers Stewart and McLymore promised a combined Ward 1/Ward 3 town hall around March 23 and updates at the next work session.