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Fishkill trustees discuss water and sewer rate proposals, county ambulance support and possible hotel room tax
Summary
Trustees reviewed a proposal to raise water and sewer rates (5% in‑village, 8% out‑of‑village) and tabled it for further review; the board also heard that Dutchess County is temporarily providing two ambulances and a fly car funded with ARPA money, and began discussion on pursuing a hotel room tax with home‑rule approval.
At a regular meeting, the Village of Fishkill Board of Trustees considered proposed changes to utility rates, received an update on county‑supported ambulance coverage and discussed whether to pursue a hotel occupancy tax.
Water and sewer: Staff presented a recommendation to increase water and sewer rates to replenish reserves and prepare for future upgrades. The proposal discussed a 5% increase for in‑village residential and commercial accounts and an 8% increase for out‑of‑village users, while recognizing existing contracts may limit increases for some customers. Trustees asked questions about timing and contract constraints and agreed to table final action to allow additional review.
Ambulance services: Mayor Kathleen A. Martin briefed the board on a county program, in effect since Jan. 1, in which Dutchess County is temporarily funding two ambulances and a fly car to support municipal ambulance coverage. "It is a Band‑Aid; it's not a permanent fix but it is helpful," Mayor Martin said, noting the county used ARPA funds and the program is intended to plug gaps while longer‑term solutions are explored.
Hotel room tax: Trustees discussed a recent Town of Fishkill action to request home‑rule permission for a hotel occupancy tax (the town sought up to 5%). The village reviewed state guidance from the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance that defines taxable lodging to include hotels, motels, bed‑and‑breakfasts and short‑term rentals. Trustees debated whether to include short‑term rental platforms (Airbnb) in any village law, whether revenue could be earmarked for road improvements such as Meritt Boulevard, and noted the village would need home‑rule permission prior to adopting a local law. The board agreed to continue discussion at a future meeting.
Trustees did not take final votes on utility rates or the hotel tax and directed staff to provide additional information and allow more time for review.
