February 18, 2025

At last week's Work Session, the Board of Trustees discussed a resolution that reaffirms the Village's commitment to diversity and underscores our dedication to safeguarding everyone, regardless of their immigration or citizenship status. The Board of Trustees will vote on this resolution at this week's legislative session. If passed, it will be codified into the police procedures as well. This resolution, a reflection of our shared values, is a testament to our unwavering commitment to protecting and upholding the rights of all individuals in our community.

Consistent with the law and our standard operating procedures, the Ossining Police Department is committed to ensuring that all procedures, training, and enforcement practices align with the provisions set forth within the resolution. This alignment is a crucial step in our efforts to promote diversity and equality in our community. Any future modifications to OPD's policies regarding interactions with Federal Immigration Authorities must be reported to the Village Board, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Click here to read the resolution: 2025 Village of Ossining Immigration Resolution

The Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board (WPWDB) has been directing the "Volunteer Income Tax Assistance" (VITA) Program since 2004. Over the past 21 years, hundreds of people have volunteered their time and expertise to help low-and moderate-income individuals and families file their taxes for free, including people with disabilities, senior citizens, and those for whom English is a second language. To ensure the program delivers maximum benefits, VITA relies on dedicated volunteers to act as greeters and assist with language translation and call center operations. Tax preparation is done by IRS-certified volunteers via electronic filing.

To thank and recognize those volunteers, including many students who are participating in "service learning" from both Mt. Vernon and Ossining, this year's kick-off for the VITA program included a breakfast and awards presentation.

I'm beyond proud that the Ossining delegation was recognized for having the most student volunteers at sites both at Ossining High School and at Ossining Youth Bureau.

• Katrina Alexander, Westchester County DSS Deputy Commissioner
• Leonard Townes, Westchester County DSS Commissioner
• Karen D'Attore, Village of Ossining Manager
• Liz Feldman, Town of Ossining Supervisor
• Chima Monday, Ossining Youth Bureau Director
• Thom Kleiner, Workforce Board Director

The Ossining Police Department and the Ossining Youth Bureau will host informational events for the upcoming Westchester County Police Officer Exam. These events are designed to provide information and answer any questions potential applicants may have about the exam and the role of a police officer. Becoming a police officer is a career that not only brings pride and benefits but also personal growth and development. Come and listen to our officers share their experiences and the opportunities for growth within their department. Please join us on Weds., Feb. 19th from 5-8 pm and on Thurs., Feb 20th from 3-5 pm at the Ossining Public Library. The deadline to submit your application is February 24th. Good luck! Click here to apply: https://bit.ly/OssiningPoliceNowHiring

Thanks to everyone who voted in the last election. Special elections are crucial because they determine who fills vacant seats and make decisions on local issues directly impacting communities. Since voter turnout is often lower, each vote carries even more weight, making it a powerful opportunity to shape policies and representation. Congratulations to our new County Executive, Ken Jenkins.

Ossining in the news:

• Play Covering Sojourner Truth’s Life in Ossining to Premier at Bethany Arts Community
• Sing Sing Museum to Open in October in Ossining

This week’s Legislative Meeting will occur on Wednesday, February 19^th, at 7:30PM.

Some items of note:

• There are (6) Snow & Ice Assessment Hearings (similar to what we did for landscaping) from the recent storms. Resolutions for each property (repayment of the cost to clear the conditions, plus a 10% admin fee) are later in the agenda.
• The Board will be asked to vote on the Immigration/ Citizenship Status Resolution.
• The Board will have (4) resolutions related to Cabaret licenses, including (3) approvals (Westchester Collaborative Theater, The Boathouse, and Tierras Tropicales).
• There will be a resolution for the capital project related to re-wiring at the Operations Center.
• The BOT will have a resolution to appoint a new chair of the Civilian Police Complaint Review Board (CPCRB).

Under Continuing Business, we have two items:

• The NYS Pro-Housing Resolution, as written by HCR without amendment
• The CVAAP discussion from this past Wednesday.

Village of Ossining | www.villageofossining.org