As I write this column there are 476 positive cases of COVID-19 in the Town of Warwick. This is an increase of 26 from last week. While it is still a number that is too high, it does indicate our efforts are stemming the spread as compared to other Orange County Towns; let’s keep it up. You can track how we compare to other areas in the County at www.orangecountygov.com. No matter what, it is still critical to wear your mask, wash your hands, avoid unnecessary trips and stay home if you are sick.
Our residents are taking advantage of the improving weather to get outside with their families. We are a Town with many narrow country roads, so please slow down when driving with so many walking these roads. If you are the walker, bicyclist or jogger please wear bright or reflective clothes so you are readily visible to car traffic. If we all do our part everyone will be safe. If you are using one of our parks, the Appalachian Trail, a State park or the many not-for-profit conservation areas, please practice social distancing, and do not park on roadsides or block private driveways.
It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of retired Assessor Clerk Peg Parkin and former Town Councilman Wisner Buckbee Sr. who served from 1970 to 1974. Both of these individuals served our Town professionally in public service but also in volunteer service for so many years. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to their families, especially during this time when the community itself cannot comfort the families in person.
Just a reminder – Town Hall offices are closed to the public at this time. The lobby remains open with drop boxes to leave forms, water and sewer payments, Building Department applications, etc. Most forms and applications are online at www.townofwarwick.org. Please be advised we are not accepting any cash payments at this time. Please pay by either check or money order. Most all services are still available, so if you have any questions or needs please call 986-1124 or 986-1120.
The next regular meeting of the Town Board, as per Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order 202.1, will be closed to the public but can be viewed live via the Zoom app on Thurs., May 14 at 7:30 p.m. A link to the meeting will be placed in our official newspaper, the Warwick Valley Dispatch, and on www.townofwarwick.org. All future meetings will be conducted in this manner until the Governor’s order is lifted.
The above column, written by Warwick Town Supervisor Michael Sweeton, has been published in the May 6 issue of the Warwick Valley Dispatch.
