Town Enters Phase 1 of Reopening Process

By Lourice Angie

Warwick Town Supervisor Michael Sweeton announced that the Mid-Hudson region, which includes Orange County, is currently in Phase 1 of the reopening process. Construction, manufacturing, wholesale and curbside retail business have already begun to reopen. 

According to Sweeton, the COVID-19 metric numbers which track new cases, hospitalizations and deaths in the county seem to be holding very well. As a part of a larger region, Sweeton said that there are concerns with Rockland and Westchester Counties. However, if the numbers continue to hold, Governor Andrew Cuomo has indicated that the Hudson Valley Region could possibly move on to the next reopening phase sooner than the two weeks initially required. 

“We are trying to get back and we encourage our businesses to be ready. We can get a call saying that we’re safe to open at any time and we want you to be ready. You’re [businesses] required to have a safety plan for your employees that shows them how they can practice social distancing while interacting with customers. You want it to be a safe experience and encourage your customers that they can come and shop safely,” said Supervisor Sweeton.  

Town Beach to Open June 6

The Board announced that the Town Beach at the Thomas P. Morahan Park in Greenwood Lake will be opening on Sat., June 6. Due to COVID-19 state guidelines, the beach will be limited to Town residents only at 50% capacity. Hours of operation will be from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. this season. Residents seeking to purchase season passes should call the Town Clerk’s office at 986-1124.   

Sweeton explained that having a season pass “will not necessarily guarantee that you will be allowed in on a busy day.” Lifeguards will be equipped with Personal Protective Equipment and signage will be posted throughout the beach with the current guidelines and restrictions. Social distancing is expected, picnic tables will be spread out.

Kutz Camp Property

The Kutz Camp property, located on Bowen Rd. in Warwick, has been acquired by the Town and the transaction is scheduled to close on Tues., June 2.  Due to the coronavirus health situation, the Town has postponed all discussions on the future use of the property. 

  Initial short-term plans include securing the property and hiring the current caretaker as a part time seasonal employee. Sometime later this year, the Board plans to put together a committee and hold open forums to consider ideas for the site. Supervisor Sweeton has asked Councilman Russell Kowal and Attorney Jay Myrow to co-chair that committee and appoint members to spearhead the discussion.

Sweeton also announced that the Board plans to hold a contest for the youth within the community to rename the former Kutz Camp property. Additional information on the contest and soliciting ideas for the renaming of the property is anticipated to be announced and distributed by the Town in the near future. 

Senior Center & Town Offices Remain Closed

The Warwick Town Hall and Senior Center, both located at 132 Kings Hwy. in Warwick, remain closed at this time. The Board anticipates that, once cleared to do so, the Senior Center may open sometime in June. 

The Town Hall lobby remains open with drop boxes to leave forms, water and sewer payments, and Building Department applications. Most forms and applications can be obtained online at www.townofwarwick.org.  The Town of Warwick is not accepting any cash payments at this time.  Residents are asked to pay by check or money order. For more information, call 986-1124. 

Dial-A-Bus Back in Service

The Town Dial-A-Bus service is now operating locally and as scheduled. Supervisor Sweeton reported that all vehicles are being sanitized thoroughly and employees are wearing proper Personal Protective Equipment.  To make a reservation call 986-2877 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Humane Society Spay, Neuter Program

Councilman Floyd DeAngelo reported that the Spay, Neuter and Return (SNR) program in conjunction with The Animal Rights Alliance (T.A.R.A.), is now available for the spaying and neutering of cats within the Town of Warwick and Town of Chester. The SNR is a low-cost program subsidized by the Towns of Warwick and Chester and is managed by the Warwick Valley Humane Society.  Call the shelter at 986-2473 to make an appointment, proof of residency is required.

Next Town Board Meeting

The next Town Board meeting will be held on Thurs., June 11 at 7:30 p.m. In accordance with Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Executive Order, Town Board meetings will be closed to the public but can be viewed live online via Zoom. A link to the meeting will be placed in the Warwick Valley Dispatch, and on the Town website at www.townofwarwick.org.