Photo: Kilito Chan / Moment / Getty Images
State funding intended to aid the City of Poughkeepsie in purchasing essential equipment for its Parks & Recreation department has finally been delivered. On Tuesday (August 26), Mayor Yvonne Flowers received the $100,000 grant at a ceremony in Spratt Park. The funding, secured by then-Senator Sue Serino in 2018, was delayed due to the slow-moving Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).
The grant, part of the State and Municipal Funding Program (SAM), will be used to buy new mowers and a pickup truck, enhancing the city's ability to maintain its parks and public spaces. Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino expressed pride in seeing the funds put to use, highlighting the importance of supporting the city's Department of Public Works (DPW) employees.
Senator Rob Rolison, who succeeded Serino, played a key role in advocating for the release of the funds. He emphasized the necessity of maintaining clean and safe public spaces as a core responsibility of local government. Mayor Flowers thanked both Serino and Rolison for their efforts, noting the collaboration allowed the city to acquire the equipment without using local funds.
The funding is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for Poughkeepsie residents by ensuring the city's parks remain beautiful and accessible.