Village far ahead of 2020 in tax collections
Village of Saugerties treasurer Paula Kerbert said the village has collected a greater share of taxes than it did this time last year, and fewer residents are requesting to extend their payments using an installment plan.
She said the village has $199,573.32 left to collect in taxes of a $1.7 million total levy. And the portion of tax payments under an installment plan is $29,047.98.
Kerbert said just six residents have asked for a tax installment plan, down considerably from last year, when 21 residents asked for extensions in the midst of the COVID-19-related economic downturn.
Saugerties wants more notification of film shoots
Production companies in Saugerties will be required to notify all nearby residents and businesses when they are planning a film shoot.
The Village Board passed a resolution requiring the companies to notify nearby residents and businesses at its July 6 meeting.
Village Clerk Lisa Mayone said the most recent film to shoot in Saugerties was a smaller independent production. Times A new HBO Max series “Pretty Little Liars” will be filming at Upriver Studios in Saugerties this summer.
Village Mayor Bill Murphy said most productions shoot in the business district and provide a big benefit to Saugerties.
“It’s free publicity for only a minor inconvenience and they use the businesses,” Murphy said.
Murphy said village officials have never received a complaint from residents or businesses related to film production.
Saugerties Fourth of July celebration a big hit
Saugerties Mayor Bill Murphy said the Fourth of July festivities including the traditional parade with a new start time at 1 p.m. and the fireworks after a Saugerties Stallions baseball game at Cantine Field were a huge success.
“The parking lot at Saugerties High School was filled, I can remember when it was only me,” Murphy said, adding he believes Saugerties’ celebration may have gotten an additional boost after the City of Kingston called off its Fourth of July fireworks and celebration.
The mayor said neither village officials nor town police received any reports of incidents or disturbances during the festivities.