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During her 2026 State of the City address at Poughkeepsie High School on Thursday (March 26), Mayor Yvonne Flowers highlighted progress in youth outreach, public safety, and city infrastructure, but raised concerns over Dutchess County’s recent actions affecting local neighborhoods. The mayor said that county decisions—especially the expansion of the Justice and Transition Center jail and the relocation of a temporary homeless shelter to Oakley Street—have led to declining property values and quality of life issues for city residents.
According to Mid Hudson News, Mayor Flowers stated, “The county has sites in our city that are not included in our tax base, and not all have a positive impact on our city. The question is, when does it end?” She said the city will keep fighting in court against the placement of the Oakley Street shelter, arguing that the move will worsen poverty and community strain.
Despite these challenges, Mayor Flowers reported positive developments: Poughkeepsie’s police department saw a historic low in community complaints and achieved a double-digit decrease in crime rates. She praised the efforts of city leaders and first responders, and pointed to youth initiatives, improved fiscal stability, and ongoing infrastructure upgrades—including bridge repairs and sewage pipe replacement—as signs of progress.
The mayor also spotlighted new investments in youth programs, with funding awarded to 28 local organizations through the Youth Activities & Opportunities grant program. As noted on the City of Poughkeepsie’s website, these grants aim to empower young people despite a challenging funding environment.
Mayor Flowers reaffirmed her commitment to revitalizing downtown, expanding affordable housing, improving public spaces, and maintaining community partnerships. She closed by stressing the need for continued diligence in creating economic opportunities and a better quality of life for all residents.
The city will continue to monitor the impacts of the county jail and shelter, pursue legal remedies, and advance its infrastructure and economic development plans in the coming year.