The Village of Rhinebeck Board of Trustees convened on September 30, 2025, to address several key issues impacting the community, including budget approvals, equipment purchases, and staffing updates.

One of the primary actions taken during the meeting was the approval of vouchers for payment totaling $122,534.99, which includes allocations for the general fund, water fund, and significant investments in sewer improvements. This financial decision underscores the board's commitment to maintaining and enhancing essential village services.

Trustee Vanessa proposed the purchase of compost buckets, utilizing grant funds to acquire 300 additional buckets at a cost of $1,995. This initiative aims to support the village's composting efforts and is part of a broader strategy to utilize remaining grant money effectively before the upcoming deadline. The board also approved a mailing to the entire Rhinebeck community, estimated at $2,600, to promote composting initiatives and engage residents in sustainability efforts.

In a move to enhance public safety, the board approved the purchase of a new desktop computer for the police department, costing $1,396.32, as well as a replacement laptop for a police vehicle at $3,905. These upgrades are essential for ensuring that the police department operates efficiently and effectively.

The meeting also addressed the growing issue of brush and leaf collection in the village. With an increasing volume of debris due to recent storms, the board approved a mulching contract to manage the accumulated brush, ensuring that the village can continue its leaf and brush pickup services without disruption.

Additionally, the board welcomed a new highway laborer, Steve Bryant, who will start at a rate of $25 per hour. His hiring is part of the village's efforts to maintain a fully staffed public works department, which is crucial for ongoing maintenance and service delivery.

Lastly, the board passed a resolution regarding holiday pay for weekend workers, clarifying that employees whose regular schedules include weekends will not receive holiday pay for days off that coincide with observed holidays. This decision aims to streamline payroll processes and ensure fairness in compensation practices.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's proactive approach to managing village resources, enhancing public services, and engaging the community in sustainability efforts. As Rhinebeck continues to grow, these decisions will play a vital role in shaping the village's future.