In the Village of Menands, the Board of Trustees convened on November 18, 2024, to address several pressing matters that impact the community. The meeting, held under the warm glow of city hall lights, was marked by discussions on health insurance, delinquent taxes, and future planning for the village's budget.

One of the key topics was the village's health insurance plan for employees. With the Albany County Healthcare Consortium still finalizing its rates for 2025, the board decided to continue with the current CDPHP insurance plan, despite an 18.7 percent rate increase. This decision ensures that employees will maintain their existing coverage without interruption as they await the consortium's readiness to accept new participants. The board expressed optimism about the consortium, noting its potential benefits and the positive experiences of current members.

The meeting also highlighted the village's financial health, particularly concerning delinquent taxes. As of November 1, the village reported a total of $78,160.44 in unpaid taxes, a figure that has decreased from the previous year. This decline was met with relief from the board, indicating a positive trend in tax collection efforts.

In addition to these discussions, the board explored future planning, particularly regarding the upcoming budget for the next fiscal year. A proposal was introduced to implement a new plan that could enhance the village's financial management, with hopes of having it in place before budget discussions commence.

As the meeting drew to a close, the trustees expressed gratitude for the collaborative spirit among board members and the community. With decisions made and plans set in motion, the Village of Menands looks forward to a productive year ahead, navigating challenges with a focus on stability and growth.