The Town of Warwick faces a new decade which will bring with it many challenges but many more opportunities. The Town, the largest in Orange County, both geographically and by population, continues to face the fiscal challenges of a heavily taxed State that relies almost exclusively on property taxes to fund its school systems. The necessity of providing essential services, maintaining public safety and rebuilding infrastructure in a time of diminishing resources requires a dedicated workforce and a team of public servants who are not afraid to innovate while seeking more efficient ways to provide these services. It also requires a resident population who is engaged in the future of the community they call home
I am happy to report that all of these essential ingredients exist here in the town of Warwick. An aggressive farmland preservation program has secured over 4500 acres that contribute to our quality of life both economically and by their environmental stewardship. Our leadership in promoting and facilitating sustainable energy development in our town has reduced costs and lessened Warwick’s impact on our climate. The continued build out of the Warwick Technology Park is already creating jobs and contributing to the tax base to lessen that burden on residential property owners. Our continued commitment to our Senior Citizens through the Friendly Visitor Program, our extensive transportation system and supporting of our eight senior clubs ensures that our older population can enjoy a well-deserved retirement.
The Warwick Police Department continues to keep our community safe through continual training, collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and a strong community policing philosophy that gives the department strong connection to the people they serve. Zoning that is both innovative and constantly evolving has ensured that Warwick will never experience the kind of over-development that plagues many communities. Protection of natural resources, incredible vistas and responsible use of our precious land are all earmarks of this code.
So, as we enter this new decade, Warwick’s future is bright and the opportunities boundless. Our three vibrant Villages, seven hamlets and thirty-nine (39) preserved, working farms draw countless visitors that pump millions into our local economy. The constant search for new solutions and the desire to innovate help maintain our ability to provide services in a time of diminishing resources. An engaged citizenry ensures that decisions are always made in the best interests of our Town. We look forward to 2020 with great enthusiasm and expectations for the continued success of this magical place we are proud to serve.
Town Residents may bring their discarded Christmas trees next to the mulch pile, across from the Dial-A-Bus building on Public Works Drive, Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until Jan. 31.
The next regular meeting of the Town Board will be held on Thurs., Jan. 16, at 7:30 p.m. in the Warwick Town Hall, 132 Kings Highway, Warwick.
The above column, written by Warwick Town Supervisor Michael Sweeton, has been published in the Jan. 8 issue of the Warwick Valley Dispatch.
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