Village Board approves $7,169 water cannon purchase for compost site maintenance

The Village of Rhinebeck Board of Trustees convened on August 12, 2025, to discuss several key initiatives aimed at enhancing local services and infrastructure, particularly in the area of compost management and financial oversight.

One of the primary topics was the approval of a $7,169.85 purchase for a custom-built water cannon from Ellergeley Stables, the village's compost partner. This equipment is intended to improve the maintenance of compost piles and facilitate the cleaning of compost collection dumpsters, addressing the community's growing focus on sustainable waste management practices.

In addition to the water cannon, the board discussed authorizing the village clerk to bid up to $10,000 on a used storage container through a government auction site. This container will be utilized at the compost site to store equipment, further supporting the village's composting efforts. The decision to use a government auction site aligns with the village's purchasing policy, allowing for a streamlined bidding process.

Financial updates were also a significant part of the meeting. The board reviewed the monthly operating statements, which indicated healthy balances across various funds, including $119,661.94 in the general fund and $171,325.26 in the water fund. Vouchers totaling $156,009.94 were presented for payment, which included substantial allocations for the compost grant and other essential services.

A budget amendment was proposed to increase funding for the maintenance of electric vehicle charging stations, reflecting a need for additional resources to cover unexpected costs. This amendment sparked a discussion among board members regarding potential double billing for maintenance services, highlighting the importance of thorough financial oversight.

As the meeting concluded, the board's decisions underscored a commitment to enhancing community services through sustainable practices and careful financial management. The initiatives discussed are expected to have a positive impact on residents, promoting environmental responsibility and ensuring the village's infrastructure remains robust and well-maintained.