Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Peekskill public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in taxes budget
Veterans and military property tax exemptions
Three new local laws would cut property taxes for seriously disabled veterans, troops serving in combat zones, and families of officers killed in the line of duty. Public hearings come November 23.
2027 Budget and Tax Cap Override
The council approved next year's operating budget. This shapes what the city spends on services, staffing, and everything else residents rely on.
DISH Wireless bankruptcy claim
DISH Wireless went bankrupt and canceled its lease on city water tower equipment. A buyer is offering 57 cents on the dollar — $22,511.25 of the $39,150 claim — now, versus a wait of years for uncertain bankruptcy proceeds.
2027 Department Budget Presentations
DPW is proposing about $7.9 million for 2027 — roughly 2.5% below 2026 — but is asking for unfunded positions including an electrician, motor equipment operators, laborers and help for the building maintenance division, which is currently a one-man operation. Council also discussed parking meter removal as the pay-by-plate kiosk system arrives.
Senior nutrition program funding
A $133,202 contract with Westchester County funds home-delivered meals and the Cold Supper program for at-risk seniors — no city match.
Rising police and fire retirement costs
Police and fire retirement costs have more than doubled from $2.34 million in 2020 to $4.87 million in 2026, and are projected to top $5 million in 2027 — one of the biggest pressures driving the tax increase.
Proposed Transfer Tax
The city wants to start using transfer tax money — currently locked to firehouse debt — for police and fire expenses once the debt is on a path to payoff. With retirement costs and ALS expenses rising, this could be a big shift in how emergency services get funded.
2027 MTA Parking Permit Fee Increases
Metro-North signed off on the city's parking fee increases for the railroad lots. The plan and contract need to be signed by November 1 to take effect in 2027.