Hardenburgh Approves Highway Raises, Discusses Short-Term Rental Moratorium

HARDENBURGH – The Hardenburgh Town Board approved a 3% pay raise for three highway department employees and discussed plans to address short-term rental regulations during its monthly meeting on Thursday, June 12. 

In recognition of the Highway Department's work and effort, the board voted to implement the 3% raises that were budgeted for in January but had been held back. The resolution increases the hourly rates for three MEO employees to $29.68, $26.25, and $19.61, effective with the next full payroll in June. 

The board also addressed the need to update the town's Comprehensive Plan. Officials discussed adopting a violation fee schedule, creating a short-term rental policy, and working toward a local law to place a moratorium on new short-term rentals and special use permits. 

In other business, the board authorized the Beaverkill Valley Land Trust to hold a bike event on Beaverkill and Shin Creek roads on July 20. 

During departmental reports, the Highway Superintendent updated the board on the near completion of the Shin Creek Bridge project and progress on the Millbrook Road project. The town assessor reported that there were no tax grievances filed this year. 

The board approved vouchers totaling $12,576.17 for general accounts and $33,685.63 for highway accounts. The date of the next town board meeting was changed to July 17. The meeting began with a moment of silence for community member Maxine Phelps.