At its Dec. 8 meeting the Red Hook Village Board adopted several operational changes and debated the village’s role in short-term homelessness response as winter deepened.

Snow-removal fee: After a lengthy discussion about walkability, student and elderly pedestrian safety, and fairness to property owners who cannot clear sidewalks, trustees amended a proposed $3-per-linear-foot charge to $4 per linear foot for village-conducted sidewalk clearing (Resolution 46). The board also approved an additional $1-per-linear-foot salting/sanding charge to be applied when salting is required. A motion to amend the draft resolution to $4 per linear foot was moved and seconded; the amendment carried on a voice vote and the amended resolution was adopted.

Board members who supported the increase framed it as a public-safety and cost-recovery measure: one trustee noted that the village’s current $2-per-linear-foot charge no longer covers true costs, and others suggested volunteers and community resources might be coordinated to help residents who physically cannot shovel. The board directed staff to pursue outreach and information for residents about options (volunteer assistance, local contractors and county resources).

Mattress/box-spring fee: The board also moved to raise the additional bulk-tag fee for mattress or box-spring pickup to $10 to align with the Ulster County Resource Recovery Agency (UPRA) charge (Resolution 47). The motion passed by voice vote.

Court audit and CIT training: The board authorized the mayor to approve a proposal from Lori Doty, CPA to perform the annual audit of the Red Hook Justice Court cash receipts and disbursements for $1,000. The board also approved an extension agreement with Dutchess County to continue crisis-intervention team (CIT) training for officers and behavioral-evaluation-team coordination at no cost to the village; trustees said the training helps officers in crisis situations but does not substitute for broader wraparound services.

Homelessness and warming-center options: A resident, Charlie Rubin, delivered an urgent public comment asking the village to provide immediate shelter for two vulnerable local men who sleep outside and are at risk in subfreezing temperatures. Rubin urged the board to consider unlocking an insulated information kiosk and to prioritize short-term assistance. Trustees described last winter’s warming-center arrangement — a partnership with Hudson River Housing and an Episcopal church that used private funding and trained staff — and said that the church location is not available this year. Board members noted legal limits: state law requires officers to offer rides to shelters under Code Blue but adults can refuse transport unless they are unconscious or an immediate hazard to themselves. The board said it is continuing to coordinate with county and nonprofit partners to identify a viable local option and emphasized the need for wraparound services, funding and trained staff to operate any overnight shelter safely.

Other routine business: The treasurer reported corrected October property-tax receipts and presented the village’s November financials and reserves. The board approved vouchers after audit and adjourned; the next workshop is scheduled for Dec. 22.

Votes at a glance

- Resolution 46 (increase snow-removal fee to $4 per linear foot; add $1 salting fee): adopted by voice vote (all trustees present voted Aye).
- Resolution 47 (increase mattress/box-spring bulk pickup surcharge to $10): adopted by voice vote.
- Court audit (authorize mayor to accept Lori Doty, CPA proposal for $1,000): authorized by voice vote.
- CIT training extension (Dutchess County agreement): authorized (no cost to village).