Mayor's Message

A Note About Pike Plan Lead Claims

Notice About Tax Bills

Proposals Open for Youth Boxing Program at AMNC

Midtown Thriving Survey

Latest Grant Funding Update

Pike Plan Construction Update

City of Kingston Board & Commission and Job Opportunities

Mayor's Message:

Dear Friends -

As a reminder, as we start to see the demolition of the Pike Plan canopies begin, the structure is in a state of irreparable deterioration and cannot be repaired.

The Pike Plan was originally built between 1973 and 1976, during an Urban Renewal effort and was part of a plan to turn Wall and North Front Street into a pedestrian-only mall. The canopies were then re-built in 2009-2011 with shoddy craftsmanship, which has been the source of litigation, and has caused headaches for the property and business owners ever since. At this point, the disrepair has become a dangerous situation, a looming hazard to the safety of our community.

These Stockade District buildings adjacent to the canopies are on the National Register of Historic Places and I believe should be seen without the Urban Renewal-era public attachment, but I have not taken this decision lightly. The canopies have been in place my entire life, and have been the defining characteristic to Uptown Kingston for 50 years. But the concept of the project – the City owning a structure attached to other folks’ property -- is not tenable. Imagine owning your neighbor’s front porch. Not only does it make maintenance challenging, but if the front porch extended for your entire block across multiple homes with different aesthetics and standards, it would make upkeep all the more difficult.

I want to emphatically state: the Pike Plan is not what makes Kingston unique. The small businesses, the eateries, the shops, the vibrant arts and culture scene, and our residents are what makes Kingston special. Storefronts and restaurants have been blocked from street view, and the beautiful architecture has been hidden away by this imposing structure. I truly believe that once the canopies come down, Uptown will be able to shine. 

Access to all entryways will be maintained throughout the project. Businesses are operating with regular hours, please don't forget to support our local businesses Uptown!

-Steve

A Note About Pike Plan Lead Claims

It’s unfortunate that I am forced to respond to a billionaire bully who – while supporting local newspaper Daily Freeman with his full-page ads – continues to spread misinformation and seed fear in the community.

The Pike Plan was rebuilt in 2011 and no lead paint was used. The lead in the construction area is, not surprisingly, present in the adjacent historic buildings. In fact, lead was present in at least three of the buildings that Wm. Gottlieb Real Estate owns in the project area.

As this is a very common concern and the City and contractor are well versed in the process, both are complying with federal Environmental Protection Agency standards and practices for demolition in an area where lead paint is present.

The City has wasted countless tax dollars on the endless baseless lawsuits from one individual, who does not represent any interests except his own. Likely we’re all aware of his tactics at this point, but I won’t let his ridiculous claims frighten our public. 

Notice About Tax Bills

It has come to our attention that, due to a third-party printer’s mechanical malfunction, many of the City of Kingston tax bills were printed incorrectly.

The total amount due, which is listed on the first page of the invoice, is correct on every Kingston tax bill. However, information printed on the back of the bill may be incorrect.

Due to this error, corrected tax bills will be printed and mailed to every property owner at no expense to the City of Kingston. If you have already paid your tax bill, please be assured that you have paid the correct amount and no further action is needed.

The Comptroller’s office is happy to answer questions and clear up any confusion. The tax office can be reached at 845-334-3935.     

Proposals Open for Youth Boxing Program

Midtown Thriving Plan Survey

The full Midtown Thriving plan was presented at a public meeting this week.

If you weren't able to attend the meeting, you can watch the recording here.

A public survey regarding the draft plan is available here, and will be open until January 31. Public feedback is welcome and encouraged!

Latest Grant Funding Update

Collaborating with departments across City government, the Office of Grants Management secures and manages competitive grant funding for public infrastructure projects, programs, and services that improve the quality of life for residents. Funding sources include private foundations and state and federal government agencies.

Grant awards allow the City to implement vital improvements that would not otherwise be accomplished. In fact, we currently have a grant portfolio of $75 million with over 60 initiatives underway. A few project examples include the Forest Management Plan, Wilbur Historic District Designation, Citywide Parking Study, and the Kingston Community Skatepark.

Two or three times a year, the Grant's office produces a comprehensive report to provide an update on the status of our active awards and the projects they fund. We invite you to check out the most recent, found here.

Many of the City's grant-funded projects can be found at https://engagekingston.com/.

Pike Plan Construction Update

Construction began this week at all four corners of N. Front Street with progress moving inward.

The first two days included mobilization, setup and electrical disconnection. The remaining three days this week were devoted to demolition.

To date, the project is about 10% complete. Care has been made, working with owners and tenants, to ensure continuous access to all storefronts. 

Work will continue next week including work on Monday. Work on N. Front is expected to last at least two more weeks, then work will move on to Wall St.

A weekly construction update will be posted on the City website here.

City of Kingston Job and Board/Commision Opportunities

The City of Kingston is hiring! The following positions are currently open:

• Recreation Leader
• Assistant Corporation Counsel
• Heavy Motor Equipment Operator
• Motor Equipment Operator 
• Senior Account Clerk
• Skilled Laborer
• WWTP Mechanic II

For more information on civil service exams and job opportunities, please visit https://kingston-ny.gov/employment

The following civil service exams are scheduled:

• Account Clerk on February 28, 2026 (deadline: 2/10/26)
• Network & Technology Support Tech in March (deadline: 2/19/26)



The City has over 25 boards & commissions, and we're always looking for volunteers to serve the community. The following currently have openings:

• Planning Board Alternate
• Historic Landmark Preservation Commission
• Ethics Board (Republican or non enrolled)
• Conservation Advisory Council
• Zoning Board of Appeals
• Ulster County Planning Board

Find the application at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KingstonBoards.

The Kingston 311 app, website, and phone system allow residents to quickly and easily report issues and submit service requests.

The Kingston 311 app, available for Android & iPhones, is a fast and simple way to connect to City officials in non-emergency situations. Photos can be attached to illustrate service orders.



This system is a valuable resource to submit municipal service requests. Examples include:

• Streetlight replacement
• City signage, including overgrowth blocking traffic signs
• Snow removal, reporting parking violations, and other snow issues
• Parks & playground repairs
• Report graffiti or vandalism
• Trail issues

Dial 311 from any phone within City limits to reach us, use the app or visit www.kingston-ny.gov/311/