The Peru Gazette

Plattsburgh, NY – The Foundation of CVPH will host a Candlelight Remembrance Ceremony at the Angel of Hope, Saturday, Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. on the hospital’s front lawn.

During the ceremony names of loved ones who have passed will be read aloud. To submit a name to be read on December 6, please email Events and Special Projects Manager Michelle Senecal at msenecal@cvph.org.

The Angel of Hope Candlelight ceremony is open to everyone and will be held outside, regardless of the weather. Please plan accordingly.

The angel is the centerpiece of the Circle of Healing and Hope, providing a quiet place on the main campus for patients, visitors and staff to reflect, rejuvenate and honor those they love. In bringing it to CVPH, the Foundation committed to holding the candlelight ceremony each year on December 6. It is a commitment honored by all locations across the country with an Angel of Hope.

The Angel of Hope comes from the bestselling book The Christmas Box by Richard Paul Evans. It tells the story of a woman who mourns at her daughter’s gravesite which features an Angel of Hope and the solace she gets from the statue.

To learn more about The Foundation, the Angel of Hope and the Circle of Healing and Hope, go to UVMHealth.org/CVPH or call The Foundation at (518) 562-7169.

Nov. 20, 2025 – Plattsburgh, NY — Clinton County is encouraging all short-term rental operators to ensure they are properly registered with the County Treasurer’s Office, as required under the Clinton County Room Occupancy Tax Law. This applies to homeowners and lodging operators renting directly to guests as well as those using platforms such as Airbnb or VRBO.

“Some operators may not realize that they must register with the County even when a booking platform collects and remits tax on their behalf,” said Rebecca Murphy, Deputy Treasurer and Finance Manager. “Quarterly reporting is required for all operators so we can maintain accurate records and support compliance with state and local law.”

To assist operators who may have been unaware of these responsibilities, the Clinton County Legislature authorized a temporary grace period allowing penalties and interest owed as of October 31, 2025, to be waived if operators register and pay all taxes due by February 28, 2026, and if the delay was based on reasonable cause.

Legislature Chairman Mark Henry emphasized that this initiative is focused on awareness and fairness.
“Our goal is simply to ensure every operator understands what’s required and has an opportunity to come into compliance,” Henry said. “Short-term rentals are an important part of our tourism economy, and this grace period provides a reasonable path for anyone who may have missed a step.”

As part of the County’s outreach, letters were mailed to short-term rental owners identified through online listings, asking them to verify and update their registration status.

Finance Committee Chairman Rob Timmons highlighted how updated reporting directly benefits the community. “The occupancy tax is reinvested directly into efforts that strengthen our tourism economy, attract visitors, and support businesses across the county,” Timmons said. “Keeping our registry up to date ensures those funds are collected responsibly and used to support initiatives that strengthen Clinton County’s visitor economy. We encourage all rental owners to take advantage of the grace period and reach out if they need assistance.

Occupancy tax revenues remain dedicated to tourism promotion and development, supporting efforts such as expanding the county’s fishing tournament portfolio, increasing marketing presence in Québec and key domestic markets, and advancing destination research to ensure Clinton County remains competitive with surrounding regions.

Short-term rental owners can register and file online at https://portal.deckard.com/ny-clinton-str-portal or email roomtax@clintoncountyny.gov with questions.

Clinton County appreciates the cooperation of property owners and encourages anyone with questions to contact the Treasurer’s Office for assistance.

Nov. 19, 2025, PLATTSBURGH, NY — The Clinton County Industrial Development Agency (CCIDA) has approved its first residential project under the Agency’s newly updated Uniform Tax Exemption Policy (UTEP), marking a significant milestone in Clinton County’s effort to support commercial housing and workforce development.

KLM Development LLC will construct three new duplexes totaling six rental units at 15 Hamilton Street in the City of Plattsburgh, complementing an existing duplex already located on the property. The $1.15 million investment includes modest sales and mortgage recording tax exemptions and a three-year real property tax abatement. The developer anticipates sourcing approximately 86% of construction costs locally, reinforcing CCIDA’s emphasis on local labor and community benefit.

“This project reflects the type of investment our updated UTEP was designed to support,” said Molly Ryan, Executive Director of the CCIDA. “Housing is foundational to economic growth. With our modernized policy, CCIDA is better positioned to encourage projects that strengthen neighborhoods and give our workforce the modern, quality homes they deserve. We’re proud to see the first project under the revised UTEP advance with a local developer committed to this community.”

Trent Trahan, Chair of the CCIDA Board, emphasized the value of aligning local policy with real housing, commercial and workforce needs. “By refreshing our UTEP, we created a path for responsible development that benefits residents, employers, employees and the broader community. KLM Development’s project fits that intent perfectly, and we’re pleased to support local investment that adds quality housing options.”

Mark Henry, Chairman of the Clinton County Legislature, noted the county-wide economic significance. “Housing is workforce infrastructure. Supporting projects that expand access to high-quality homes strengthens our entire economy. The Legislature appreciates the CCIDA’s proactive approach in addressing our region’s housing needs.”

A Total of 1,224 Arrests Involving 2,146 Criminal Charges Made in Connection With 1,006 Operations Statewide

Retail Theft Decreased More Than 13 Percent Year-Over-Year in New York City, Larceny Down 13 Percent Across the Rest of the State

Nov. 19, 2025 – Governor Hochul today announced that the New York State Police Organized Retail Theft Task Force has recovered more than $2.6 million in stolen goods statewide since launching new initiatives to curb retail theft in April 2024. Across 1,006 operations, State Police and local law enforcement partners have made 1,224 arrests and filed 2,146 charges. This concerted, joint effort to tackle the pandemic-era surge in thefts has contributed to a 13.6 percent decrease in retail theft year-over-year in New York City and a 13 percent decrease in larceny outside of New York City from January through June of this year as compared to the same time last year. 

“Following the pandemic, New York’s retailers faced a sharp surge in organized retail theft, which is why we invested in law enforcement and strengthened our laws to hold perpetrators accountable, protect workers and support the small business owners who are the backbone of our economy,” Governor Hochul said. “Thanks to the work of the State Police Organized Retail Theft Task Force, our partners in local law enforcement and District Attorneys across the State, we are recovering more stolen goods, making more arrests and seeing positive results.”

 No Toll or Tax Dollars Used in Construction

Nov. 19, 2205 – Ahead of the busy Thanksgiving holiday week, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the reopening of the new Modena Service Area, located on the Thruway (I-87) southbound between exit 18 (New Paltz – Poughkeepsie – NY Route 299) and exit 17 (Newburgh – Scranton- I-84 – NY Routes 17K & 300). This marks a significant milestone as the 27th and final service area to reopen as part of the $450 million private investment to redevelop and modernize all 27 service areas on the 570-mile Thruway system. No toll or tax dollars were used for construction.

“New Yorkers should be able to make a pit stop along the Thruway without breaking the bank –– that’s why we’re investing in service area redevelopments that give people affordable and convenient options to take a break from the road,” Governor Hochul said. “Whether you’re visiting family, checking out a State Park or just passing through, we’re committed to offering the best travel experience New York has to offer.”

The service area redevelopment project began in 2021 and included rebuilding 23 of the 27 service area restaurant buildings with significant renovations and upgrades to the remaining four.

As part of the project, 2,000 jobs were created with Applegreen, the service area operator. The project consisted of 1.5 million work-hours of construction.

Since 2022, when the first three service areas reopened to the public, more than 68 million customers have visited the service areas.

Elise Stefanik News Release of 11/19/25 

Peru town Board Special Meeting: Wednesday, November 19 at 5:30PM. The purpose of the meeting will be to adopt the 2026 Final Budget.

By John T Ryan

Peru –  The November 10 Peru Town Board Meeting began with a moment of silence to honor Town Justice James Kirby, who passed away on October 29 at age 68.  Town Supervisor Craig Randall stated, “Jim served the Town of Peru faithfully for what was almost four full terms of office, almost 16 years. I want to take a moment of silence and wish his family the best that anyone could have under those circumstances. Just a moment of silence, please.”

Town employees will have a new health plan in 2026 (13 current employees participate). Supervisor Randall explained that the premiums for the current MVP plan would increase significantly (17% or more depending on the plan). He said Northern Insuring is offering an Excellus plan that some nearby towns like. Employee premiums are considerably lower than the current plan, and there are no deductibles or co-pays. The town will fund a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) of $8,500 for single coverage and $17,000 for family coverage. HRA funds not spent in one year will roll over to the following year, potentially reducing the town’s future HRA contribution. The town also pays 80% of the premium costs. The town budgeted $284,000 for health insurance for current and retired employees.

The Board approved Judy Akey’s resignation as Deputy Town Clerk/Tax Collector offered on November 6, 2025 and effective December 22, 2025.  Mrs. Akey will continue in the bookkeeper position. Outgoing Town Clerk/Tax Collector Dianne Miller said Akey’s resignation was a “shocker” and that she did not learn of Judy Akey’s plans until the agenda was published. She said, ‘I told her I respect where she’s coming from. She and I made a great team. She can bow out. I can bow out. I’ll be on my own for nine days. I think I can handle it. It will all work out and Christine will be able to pick her own deputy after the organizational meeting….” (33:15 to 35:30 minute mark of the Peru Gazette meeting video.)

Town Justice Scott Thurber explained that the town court would like to apply for a Justice Court Assistance Program (JCAP) grant for up to $5,000. The grant would fund safety and security equipment during the court’s 1st Tuesday sessions or whenever there’s potential for unruly behavior that the court has experienced. Thurber said, “It makes the environment better for everybody.” The board authorized the town court to apply for the grant. 

Following the meeting, Thurber told the Gazette that the device would be similar to those used at airports and county courtrooms. If an alarm sounds, a security officer would perform a wand scan of the individual in question. Thurber said he believes hiring a local security firm will be on the town board’s agenda at its next meeting.

Justice Thurber also reported that on October 22, the NYS Office of Court Administration recognized Peru’s Chief Court Clerk, Holly Stone, for 25 years of service.  Thurber said, “That’s a huge milestone. She’s irreplaceable. She’s great! She’s very knowledgeable. She helps me, the entire staff, and the public.”

At Supervisor Randall’s request, the Board authorized hiring accountants Telling and Hillman, PC, for a complete audit of town finances for the period ending 12/31/25. The cost will be $20,000. Randall told the Gazette that it’s been many years since the town underwent a complete audit and that this is the appropriate time.

The Board also approved: 

The relevy of unpaid October water and sewer bills totaling $59,611.40 to the respective property owners’ tax bills.

Work change orders at the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Project, requested by Triangle Electric for $6,537 and Murnane Building Supply for $3,686.

WWTP contract payments to Danforth Construction for $59,475 (Payment #4), Murnane Building for $1,068,045.74 (Payment #4), and K & L Plumbing $62,74.59 (Payment #2).

A two-year Sand & Ice agreement with Clinton County. $151,532 in 2026 and $156,079 in 2027.  Peru plows and treats nearly 24 miles of county highways.

The highway department’s  installing three-way stop signs at the Blake Road – Fox Farm Road Intersection.  Loyal Henry informed the Board of the intersection’s visibility issues at the October 29 meeting.

Click here to view the meeting video on YouTube. 

Forgotten history of Chinese immigrants reveals roots of current-day ICE partnerships, policies

Click here for the Adirondack Explorer story 

Click here for the NCPR story 

Click here for the Adirondack Daily Enterprise story 

Click here view WPTZ News story 

St. Augustine’s Church entrance

JCEO Peru Outreach Coordinator Trista Sheehan with Knights Greg Hart (L) and Gordon Santor (R)

St. Augustine’s Knights of Columbus Council 7273 is conducting a monthly food drive at St. Augustine’s Church to assist the Peru JCEO Food Shelf. This past weekend parishioners responded in a big way! The Knights delivered the food Monday morning.

November 17, 2025, Grand Isle, VT – The Patrick Leahy Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP), in partnership with NEIWPCC, seeks to fund projects that increase organizational capacity and long-term effectiveness of watershed organizations working in the Lake Champlain Basin.

The intent of this funding opportunity is to assist watershed organizations with the early stages of their development or to assist established watershed organizations in strengthening their capacity. The goal is to increase an organization’s capacity to achieve their mission, rather than develop new programming or education and outreach efforts (this work can be requested via other LCBP grant competitions).

All organizations seeking funding through this category must have a specific focus on achieving water quality improvements in the Lake Champlain watershed.

Grants of up to $20,000 will be awarded, with a total of approximately $250,000 in available funding. One proposal may be submitted per eligible organization. 

“Watershed organizations across the Basin play a critical role in implementing water quality and habitat restoration projects, as well as educating and involving our communities,” said Dr. Eric Howe, NEIWPCC Program Director of the Lake Champlain Basin Program. “We are proud to offer organizational support funding to boost our partners’ capacity for undertaking this work.”

The awarded projects will advance the goals of the long-term Lake Champlain management plan Opportunities for Action (plan.lcbp.org). This grant opportunity is supported by funds awarded to Lake Champlain by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and in partnership with the Great Lakes Fishery Commission.

Proposals are due at 5:00 PM EST on January 5, 2026, and projects are targeted to begin work in August 2026. An informational webinar will be offered on December 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. (register for the Zoom meeting here).

For further information, contact the Lake Champlain Basin Program, 54 West Shore Road, Grand Isle, VT at (802) 372-3213 / (800) 468-5227 or visit www.lcbp.org.

-end-

Assemblyman Michael S. Cashman is pleased to announce his initial committee assignments in the New York State Assembly. Cashman has been appointed to the Agriculture Committee, the Tourism, Parks, and Sports Development Committee, and the Veterans’ Affairs Committee three panels that directly reflect the strengths and priorities of the 115th Assembly District.

“These committees represent the core of who we are as a region,” said Assemblyman Cashman. “The 115th is powered by hardworking farm families, supported by a vibrant tourism and outdoor recreation economy, and deeply shaped by our veterans and military community. I’m honored to bring our district’s voice to each of these tables.”

Cashman noted that Assembly committee sizes are fixed by the Rules of the House, and as a result, senior members such as former Assemblyman Billy Jones may assume additional responsibilities as the new legislative session progresses. “This is the start of the process,” Cashman added. “As assignments across the Chamber shift, I will continue to advocate for roles that best serve the people of Clinton, Franklin, and Essex Counties.”

His appointment to the Agriculture Committee positions him to champion family farms and rural economic development. Serving on Tourism, Parks, and Sports Development allows him to support the region’s natural assets and small businesses that rely on visitors and recreation. Through the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, he will continue advocating for the service members and military families who are such an important part of the North Country’s identity.

Additionally, Assemblyman Cashman has been diligently working to open the new District Office located on the historic U.S. Oval in Plattsburgh. This includes hiring staff, establishing operations, and getting phone lines up and running. Constituents may now reach the office at 518-562-1986.

Even while preparing the office, Cashman has remained active across the district from meeting with leaders at the UVM Health Network’s Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital FitzPatrick Cancer Treatment Center, to attending the Annual North Country Chamber of Commerce Retreat, to joining the Annual Malone Chamber Meeting and Dinner, and celebrating the official opening of the new Champlain Fire Station and many more. These engagements ensure he continues to stay closely connected to the issues, opportunities, and people of the 115th.

Click here for the NCPR story 

Click here for the New York Focus story 

Wall Street tycoon and Adirondack agitator Sandy Lewis lists iconic Essex farm

Click here for the Adirondack Explorer Story 

Click here for the Sun Community News story 

Thanksgiving dinner

Turkey Dinner & All the Trimmings! 

Dessert 

Served 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., take-out only, at St. Augustine’s Parish Center, 3030 Main St., Peru, NY 12972. 

All are invited and welcome!