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COVID-19 Response Summary
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COVID Summary - keep checking here, we are regularly updating

>> bit.ly/NewPaltz-COVID19 <<

PLEASE EMAIL  awojcik@villageofnewpaltz.org 

with questions-comments about these updates

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***Table of Contents can be found at the end of this document***

If you suspect you have contracted COVID-19 or need assistance related to the ongoing crisis:

✔️ NYS Dept. of Health's 24-hour hotline

888-364-3065

✔️ Ulster County Virtual COVID Center

https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/

✔️ Ulster County COVID Hotline

845-443-8888

✔️ Ulster County Health Department

845-340-1618

GET TESTED

NYS COVID Health Dashboard

Ulster County Active COVID-19 Cases by Town

SUNY NP COVID Dashboard

Vaccination Rate by Zip Code

6/23/22 TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES 44,126 in Ulster County, New Paltz 3560 confirmed cases

6/23/22  ACTIVE CASES 153 total in Ulster County, New Paltz 11 active cases

6/23/22  FATALITIES 386 total in Ulster County, New Paltz 22 fatalities

Ulster County Active Cases Trendline (Updated 5/10/2022)

Ulster County COVID-19 Vaccine Info - Vaccinateulster.com

Ulster County COVID-19 Testing Info

Ulster County COVID-19 Antibody Testing Info

SUNY New Paltz Case Count

New Paltz Center Case Count

Search for COVID-19 vaccine locations 

PLEASE EMAIL awojcik@villageofnewpaltz.org with questions-comments about these updates.

The Latest

The newest information goes here --

5/13/2022 – Statement from Ulster County Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Carol Smith – The CDC has recently reclassified Ulster County as an area of high transmission for COVID-19. As a result of this designation, residents should consider wearing a mask when indoors and in a public setting and other common or shared spaces where individuals may interact.

4/7/2022 – 2nd Boosters

Beginning April 9th, 2022, the Ulster County Department of Health will administer 2nd boosters of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to those who meet the following eligibility (as determined by the FDA, CDC, and NYS DOH):

* 4 months post 1st booster dose AND

* ages 50+ OR

* ages 18+ and moderately-severely immunocompromised (as defined by the CDC)

2nd boosters will be administered at the Best Buy POD beginning this Saturday.  Appointments are appreciated; walk-ins will be accommodated as capacity allows.

To make an appointment and learn more, visit VaccinateUlster.com.

1.24.2022 – Covid Test Information

PCR TESTS

SUNY New Paltz Community Free Testing Site at the College Terrace Building will be open from Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4pm. Residents can make an appointment by clicking https://bit.ly/StateTestSiteNP.  This site will maintain capacity for approximately 225 appointments per day and up to 50 walk-ins for FREE PCR testing.

RAPID AT-HOME TESTS

Local distribution of free test kits is being conducted by volunteers as supplies allow. If you are in need of at-home tests you can have one kit (2 tests) per household delivered to your home by filling out this form: https://forms.gle/psomHYWLoB7xpP1TA 

Federally provided at home test kits:

Residential households in the U.S. can order one set of 4 free at-home tests from USPS.com. Here’s what you need to know about your order:

12.29.2021 – The Town of New Paltz will hold a free COVID-19 home test kit drive through only distribution event at the Ulster County Fairground parking lot, across the street from the Fairgrounds, at 249 Libertyville Rd, New Paltz, NY, on Friday Dec 31st from noon (12 pm) until the kits are gone. These rapid tests will be available on a first come, first served basis with a limit of one kit per vehicle. If you are unable to attend the event a very limited number are available for delivery also on a first come first served basis by calling the Town Clerk at 845-255-0100.

Health officials ask that the community allow those most in need to receive the kits first.

Ulster County is providing the free test kits to communities to help curtail the spread of the virus. This event is not a testing clinic. Kits provided are to be used at home if someone suspects exposure to the virus or has symptoms associated with COVID.

For more information regarding the kits and what to do if you test positive using an at-home kit, visit https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov

Ulster County is also holding a free drive-through at-home test distribution event at the Ulster County Fairgrounds in New Paltz on on Thursday, December 30 at 6 p.m.

As more kits become available the Town will hold additional events.

12.29.2021 – Ulster County will hold two FREE drive-through at-home test distribution events at TechCity in the town of Ulster on Wednesday, December 29th and at the Ulster County Fairgrounds in New Paltz on Thursday, December 30th. Each event will have 3,000 at-home kits available to Ulster County residents only, with one kit available per car. The events will start at 6PM and run while supplies last.

Additionally, Ulster County will again partner with all 24 municipalities in the county to provide rapid at-home COVID-19 test kits at no cost to cities, towns, and villages throughout Ulster County. Residents are encouraged to contact their municipality for additional details on how to obtain kits. Please remember to call ahead to make arrangements for outside pick-up, if you are symptomatic, to stem the spread of COVID-19. Each at-home rapid kit contains two tests per-box.

Report positive at-home test results to the Department of Health online at covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/hometest/ or by calling the Ulster County Recovery Service Center (RSC) at 845-443-8888. (Negative test results do not need to be reported to the Department of Health.)

12.16.2021 – Free Rapid Test kits available for people who need them. Limited supply available for pickup on Wednesday 12/22 between 5pm and 7pm via “drive through” at New Paltz Community Center (3 Veterans Drive, NP).

12.13.2021 – Mask mandate in effect statewide.

11.28.2021 -- Ulster County & NYS Announce new States of Emergency, effective immediately. The County State of Emergency begins 11/28/2021 and will last for at least thirty (30) days; the statewide State of Emergency is currently through 1/15/2022.

“In response to rapidly rising COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, and the emergence of the new Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant, I have declared a State of Emergency. The order, in effect for at least thirty (30) days, will allow Ulster County to more rapidly procure needed testing supplies for local schools, businesses, and families; bolster available public health and medical staff resources across the county; and, if necessary, to redeploy the workforce to support testing, contact tracing, and vaccination efforts.

With COVID cases and hospitalizations surging, and the emergence of a new and potentially more dangerous variant, we must step up our efforts to ensure the health and safety of all of our residents. Informed by real-time data and the advice of our team of public health experts, this emergency order is an important step to allow the County to respond rapidly and effectively in order to combat the virus. We must do everything we can, individually and collectively, to prevent another difficult and deadly winter. I encourage all residents to get vaccinated, get your booster, and continue to socially distance and wear masks when indoors around others.

In the month since Halloween, active cases of COVID-19 have tripled in Ulster County, bringing the count to its highest level since April 2021. Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan is continuing to urge residents to get vaccinated if they have not already, and to get their booster shot if they received their last dose over six months ago.

With the emergence of the Omicron variant, it’s even more urgent to get vaccinated and get your booster. Vaccines remain our most effective tool to stop the virus and save lives.

Ulster County will continue to hold regular vaccination PODs for residents who need to receive their 1st dose, 2nd dose, or booster dose. Appointments are recommended for the County’s vaccination PODs; although walk-ins will be accommodated as capacity allows. Sign up for an appointment at http://VaccinateUlster.com/

In addition, County Executive Ryan reiterated the continued need for residents to volunteer to staff and support the county’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts. The Ulster County Department of Health is still accepting volunteers, particularly medical volunteers to be vaccinators, and screeners. Vaccinators need both an active license and current CPR certificate, or can be basic and advanced EMTs with current CPR certificate. Screeners create the record of vaccination for each patient, so should be computer literate, have attention to detail, and good customer service and communication skills.  Both of these medical volunteers will receive a stipend.  Sign up to volunteer at https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/vaccine-volunteer/.”

11.24.2021 -- Thanksgiving Eve data and reminders:

This Thanksgiving Eve, Ulster County has more active COVID-19 infections (781) and a higher positivity rate (6.2%) than we did heading into Thanksgiving 2020. Today, our county has 781 active cases; Nov. 25 2020 (Thanksgiving Eve) UC had 719 active cases, followed by 769 active cases on Thanksgiving proper. Last year, those Thanksgiving numbers resulted in the most deadly period of the pandemic for the County thus far.

There are 5 new active COVID-19 cases in New Paltz since yesterday (11/23/2021), bringing NP up to 40 active cases right now.

The numbers are clear: we must remain vigilant. Masking, social distancing, proper handwashing, and vaccinations work.  We are all counting on each other to help stop the spread.

⅓ of new cases in our county are breakthroughs, but 1.5% overall are breakthroughs. Dept of Health experts attribute these breakthroughs to waning efficacy. Luckily, boosters are here and available; basically anyone over 18 who received their full vaccine series at least 6 months ago are eligible. Make your plan to get a COVID-19 booster: VaccinateUlster.com 

As last year’s deadly winter demonstrates, what we do this holiday weekend can determine the trajectory of the pandemic for our entire community for the next few months and beyond.  Brush up on ways to celebrate holidays safely with this information from the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays/celebrations.html 

As always, the above data as well as information on vaccines, boosters, how to get assistance of any kind, and how you can volunteer can be found at the Ulster County COVID-19 dashboard: https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/dashboard/ 

11.09.2021 --Pediatric vaccines, boosters, and first (or second) doses at the following PODS:

More information here:https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/vaccine-resource-center/

Things to Know Before You Go:

10.19.2021 -- Vaccine POD at NPHS 10/23 https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/vaccine-resource-center/ 

10.06.2021 -- Vaccines in Ulster County available at Best Buy and the locations below:

Go here to check availability and get more info: https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/vaccine-resource-center/ 

10.06.2021 -- Booster info from NYS: https://covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/booster-doses 

9.29.2021 A message on booster shots from our County Executive

As you may know, last week the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel endorsed booster shots for those over the age of 65 and high-risk individuals.  Earlier this week, the CDC and New York State Health Department approved boosters for those who have completed the two-shot series of the Pfizer vaccine and who are over 65, those over the age of 18 with an underlying medical condition that increases the risks of severe illness from COVID 19, and those who are at a higher risk of exposure to COVID 19 through their employment and residents of a long-term care facility.

 

Ulster County has been preparing for several months to ramp back up our vaccination operations in anticipation of this guidance. Earlier this month, we re-opened our POD (Point of Distribution) at the Hudson Valley Mall. This site will allow for up to 1,500 doses to be dispensed a day. While we do not yet know what supply will look like, I can assure you that we will have the facility and staff ready to ensure that we can provide boosters in a fast and equitable way.

 

Below are additional details about booster shot eligibility based on the New York State Department of Health guidance we just received:

 

Booster Dose Eligibility

Eligible individuals must have received the Pfizer vaccine as their primary COVID vaccination series, and it must be at least 6 months since the series was completed.

 

The following individuals are eligible for a booster dose at NYS sites:

 *Underlying medical conditions that can increase risk of moderate or severe illness or death from the virus that causes COVID-19 include:

 At this time, all other fully vaccinated individuals, are not eligible for a COVID 19 booster including:

 Booster shots will be administered in the same order that residents received their original COVID-19 vaccine. Like we did earlier this year, we will be sending out registration links via email as well as updating our website and social media channels as new information becomes available. We anticipate that this will mean we will distribute about ten thousand doses by the end of October.

 

As an important reminder, as of today only Pfizer has been approved for booster shots. In the coming weeks the FDA will also review booster shots for both Moderna and Johnson & Johnson. Until this authorization, only eligible residents who originally received the Pfizer vaccine will be able to obtain a third dose of Pfizer.

 

I want to remind you all of where we were earlier this year, with hospitalizations on the rise we had a tremendous lack of supply of vaccines. The lack of reliable doses made residents understandably both anxious and angry. Nine months later, Ulster County has a vaccination rate of 81%, making us among the top vaccinated counties throughout the State, our hospitalizations and positive rate are down, and this month students are attending in-person classes again.

 

We are not yet out of the woods and we will have more hurdles and challenges ahead of us, but I can assure that we are working day and night to continue to encourage residents to get vaccinated, provide booster shots, and work to keep our community safe during these uncertain times.

Beginning this Friday October 1st, the POD at the Hudson Valley Mall will be open on Fridays from 11:00am-7:00pm. We encourage people to make an appointment, but walk-ins are accepted. Follow the link below to register for an appointment this Friday. New links will be added to our website.

Click Here for an Appointment

For additional information and to stay up to date, I encourage you to visit our website at http://www.vaccinateulster.com

 

Sincerely,

 

Pat Ryan

Ulster County Executive  

9.17.2021 A Joint Statement to the New Paltz Community

Covid-19 cases are on the rise in New Paltz and the region attributable to the highly contagious Delta variant. The vaccination rate in our community is good among those eligible. This is generally positive news, except that our children under the age of 12 cannot receive the protection a vaccine affords. We have hundreds of local kids who are not protected from a variant of the virus that is of an order of magnitude more contagious than the initial virus. This is disturbing on many levels. It was previously thought that kids were less susceptible, but that thought no longer holds true. In fact, children can suffer a range of symptoms, from mild to requiring hospitalization, and the American Academy of Pediatrics recently reported that 26% of new Covid cases nationally were in children.

Perhaps it bears repeating that in children too, Covid symptoms such as heart and pulmonary issues, brain fog, and loss of taste and smell may persist for weeks or months. It’s a terribly frightening thing for a child to experience and parents, guardians, and caregivers to live with, while hoping for full recovery.

In New Paltz, there have been requests made to community representatives to enact a mandate requiring masks to be worn in any indoor public place. Business owners cite issues with non-mask wearing persons in their spaces despite asking for them to be worn. Residents don’t feel safe in some settings even though they are vaccinated. Tensions mount, arguments ensue. Due to the rise in infections, Village and Town Boards recently directed mandatory mask wearing in municipal buildings; the Village has tabled in-person meetings; and the Town is shifting to do the same. SUNY New Paltz has an indoor mask mandate for all employees, students and visitors. New Paltz municipal, campus and school district officials are taking the necessary steps within their powers to help curtail the virus spread.

This is where you come in. It’s a simple, heartfelt request. Please wear your mask when inside a public space. We need to keep our kids safe and in school. They need to learn and not be interrupted by a suspension of in-person classes as well as the many social benefits of personal interaction. But more importantly, we need to protect these children from this insidious disease so they, and others, can have healthy and full lives. We need to keep our community safe.

So mask up, cover your nose, mouth, and chin. Be a good citizen—a kind and considerate community member—and protect our littlest ones and our neighbors. Let’s work together to keep New Paltz healthy and show that New Paltz cares. You can do this. We can do this together and we thank everyone for joining together with us on this critical public health issue.

Signed

New Paltz Village Board

New Paltz Town Board

State University of New York at New Paltz

New Paltz Central School District

New Paltz Police Department

New Paltz Fire Department

New Paltz Rescue Squad

Woodland Pond

https://hudsonvalleyone.com/2021/09/17/new-paltz-officials-offer-joint-statement-about-wearing-masks-in-new-paltz/ 

9.16.2021 Vaccine POD Info --

Ulster County Department of Health has reactivated its Point of Dispensing (POD) at the former Best Buy in the Hudson Valley Mall. Second dose appointments are automatically scheduled for those vaccines which require two doses, however, second doses may be administered as a walk-in at the Best Buy POD, as well. The COVID-19 vaccine is also widely available at multiple convenient locations throughout the County (see the links below for locations). Additionally, there are pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics. Use the links below to register for an appointment. Appointments are helpful, but walk-ins are welcome.

8.10.2021 Vaccine POD Info --

The Point of Dispensing (POD) at Best Buy performed its final clinic on 7/22/21. The COVID-19 vaccine is widely available, check this link for locations: https://www.vaccines.gov/search/ 

 Additionally, the County is holding a variety of COVID-19 vaccine clinics at the following locations and dates. Use the links to register for an appointment. Appointments are helpful, but walk-ins are welcome. More info here: https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/vaccine-resource-center/ 

8/11: Holy Cross Church, 2nd dose Moderna (ages 18+), 40 appointments

8/11: Holy Cross Church, 2nd dose Pfizer (ages 12+), 40 appointments

8/14: O+ Block Party, 1st dose Moderna (ages 18+), 80 appointments

8/14: O+ Block Party, 1st dose Pfizer (ages 12+), 80 appointments

If the link takes you to a screen that says “No Appointments Available,” it means that all appointments have been filled.

The link works best with the Google Chrome browser. On the final page of the registration, it will say “print this page” or “done” and will confirm the appointment is done. Bring your printed/screenshot registration ticket and an ID that shows proof of eligibility (age).

8.6.2021  Village mask guidelines --

The Village of New Paltz is following Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines recommending mask wearing for vaccinated and unvaccinated persons inside Village facilities. The CDC added the recommendation on July 27th for those fully vaccinated to wear a mask inside public structures, specifically in areas where there’s substantial or high transmission of the Covid virus, now manifesting itself in a highly contagious variant. On August 3rd, Ulster County was added to the list of Counties with increasing and substantial transmission. As a result, masks are required to be worn indoors in all Village buildings that are open to the public, and masks are highly encouraged to be worn while indoors in all public buildings, offices, restaurants, shops, etc regardless of vaccination status. Those with a medical condition are exempt. This takes effect immediately until further notice.

8.3.2021 CDC Extends Eviction Moratorium through October 3.

8.3.2021 Ulster County added to CDC list of Counties With Substantial Transmission

CDC guidelines suggest fully vaccinated people should wear masks while in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high transmission. On August 3rd, 2021, Ulster County was added to the CDC list of Counties with Substantial Transmission.

7.27.2021 Update from Ulster County Exec Pat Ryan:

 

Also, HERE is where to find vaccines currently: https://www.vaccines.gov/search/ 

7.19.2021 -- Vaccines available every Thursday at the former Best Buy

7.1.2021

 https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/blog/2021/06/29/statement-from-county-executive-ryan-on-the-delta-strain-of-covid-19/ 

The County is holding COVID-19 vaccine clinics at the following locations and dates. Use the links to register for an appointment. Appointments are helpful, but walk-ins are welcome:

Need the vaccine to come to you at home? Fill this out: https://codev.ulstercountyny.gov/ihvp/ 

6.10.2021

The State's Ulster County Fairgrounds mass vaccination site has transitioned to a mobile trailer at SUNY Ulster's campus. The SUNY Ulster campus site is now accepting new first-dose appointments as well as walk-in appointments. All current appointments for second doses will be honored at the original location at the Fairgrounds.

4.28.2021

Beginning April 29, all New York State mass vaccination sites will be open to eligible New Yorkers for walk-in vaccination on a first come first serve basis. 

The walk-in appointments are reserved for first doses only with second doses to be scheduled automatically after administration of the initial shot. In addition, all vaccine providers are encouraged to allow walk-in appointments for eligible New Yorkers. People who would prefer to schedule an appointment at a state-run mass vaccination site can do so on the Am I Eligible App or by calling 1-833-NYS-4-VAX. People may also contact their local health department, pharmacy, doctor or hospital to schedule appointments where vaccines are available, or visit vaccinefinder.org to find information on vaccine appointments near them.  

3.17.2021 Ulster County Fairgrounds State-Run Vaccination Site in New Paltz is now open! They are beginning with 800 appointments per day. See if you are eligible to receive the COVID-19 Vaccine at this link: https://am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/ or by calling 1-833-NYS-4-VAX.  There are appointments available through the month of April.

3.8.2021 Coming Soon: a State-Run Vaccination Site in New Paltz “Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that as the federal vaccine supply continues to increase, New York will establish 10 additional state-run mass vaccination sites in the New York City, Long Island, Hudson Valley, Capital, Southern Tier, Mohawk Valley and Western New York regions to further grow New York's vast distribution network. The sites remain in development and are expected to launch in the coming weeks. “ https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-10-additional-state-run-mass-vaccination-sites-open-coming-weeks

2.26.2021 Resource for vaccine locations: https://vaccinefinder.org/

1.10.2021 -- Ulster County COVID-19 Vaccination Resource Center

Included in the COVID-19 Vaccination Resource Center is a new Vaccine Notification Request Form. The form will allow residents to sign up to be notified of when they are eligible for a vaccine following NYS Vaccine Phased Distribution process and receive instructions on how to register.

SIGN-UP FOR UPDATES ON THE VACCINE: https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/vaccine-resource-center/ 

1.10.2021 -- here is where you can find the hardship declaration forms for tenants and landlords: https://www.nysenate.gov/newsroom/articles/2021/covid-19-emergency-eviction-and-foreclosure-prevention-act-2020 

12.29.2020 12/29/2020 --  The COVID-19 Emergency Eviction and Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2020 was signed into law the evening of 12/28 and went into effect immediately.  

12.18.2020

The NYS COVID Rent Relief Program Application is now open; deadline to apply is Monday, February 1 2021 --  https://covidrentrelief.hcr.ny.gov/ 

12.02.20 

Current New Paltz Case Count Data and Trends. Please remain vigilant: Unless you cannot because you are an essential, health care, or front line worker (thank you!),  the best way to protect yourself and others is to radically reduce your exposure outside of your own home/pod.

11.30.20

These data and charts, compiled and created by Town Supervisor Bettez, clearly display that we are in the second wave. Please be vigilant with social distancing.

11.25.20

NPCSD Community Forum for Parents and Families Attend a special Community Forum on Monday, November 30, from 6 PM to 7:30 PM. High School Principal Dr. Mario Fernández, Middle School Principal Ann Sheldon, Lenape Principal Sean Inglee, and Duzine Principal Ross Hogan will provide an update on how things are going in their buildings, field questions, and share any upcoming events or school building news. Superintendent Angela Urbina-Medina, Director of Student Support Services Fredericka Butler, Director of Pupil Personnel and Special Education Dr. Janety Encarnación, and Director of Athletics Greg Warren will also be available to answer questions from families as well.  

The meeting will be livestreamed, and a link will be posted on the District website homepage 15 minutes prior to the meeting. Parents and families are encouraged to submit questions in the Google Doc here: https://bit.ly/2JbQKt6.

Let's Talk: A Community Q & A with Local Responders and Mental Health Professionals Tuesday, December 1st, 7:00 PM 

These are extraordinary times with a wide array of stressors and challenges. It is a time that is stretching us all in many ways. During this first part of the session, we will hear directly from local first responders and mental health professionals who are working together to meet the needs of those they serve. This will be followed by a question-and-answer period where community members will receive valuable information and guidance to help us those we know, like/love, or encounter who appear to be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis.

Please bring your questions and join us for this important discussion.

To attend, simply click this link to register: https://bit.ly/2UQcoFx 

Everyone who completes the form will receive the meeting link and password. If you have additional questions, please contact Phoenix Kawamoto at (845) 256-5014, or email them at pkawamoto@townofnewpaltz.org.

If you cannot attend that night or would like to receive information now, please watch these videos:

Let's Talk: A Conversation with New Paltz Responders - https://youtu.be/Re7vrrn5S3c

Let's Talk: A Conversation with Mental Health Professionals - https://youtu.be/afhH3WiPiyU

Link to Facebook event

Look up any address in the state and see if it's in a cluster zone. New Yorkers can look up any address to determine if it is in or near an existing cluster zone using this tool on the State's website. The tool includes a navigable, regularly updated map of New York State that shows all the current cluster zones in the state. 

https://covidhotspotlookup.health.ny.gov/#/home

11.20.20

Click here to watch the 11.19.20 briefing with County Executive Pat Ryan where he explains the uptick in cases in Ulster County

11.19.20

These data and charts, compiled and created by Town Supervisor Bettez demonstrate that we are clearly in the second wave. Our daily positive infection rate is on a clear uptick, and our current infection rate of about 1.7 new cases per day is nearly equivalent to the average daily rate increase in the spring, ~1.8. Please be vigilant with social distancing.

11.18.20

File a Complaint

If you are aware of any non-essential gatherings or any non-essential businesses or entities operating in violation of "New York on PAUSE" please choose the appropriate complaint below.

Governor Cuomo also announced the state is increasing the maximum fine for violations of the state's social distancing protocol from $500 to $1,000 to help address the lack of adherence to social distancing protocols. The Governor reminded localities that they have the authority to enforce the protocols.

File a complaint against your employer or place of work:

Complaints Related to COVID-19 Regulations - New York State Department of Labor

File a complaint about a business, location or incident in your community:

File a Complaint

You may also call 1-833-789-0470

11.12.20

NYS: What You Need To Know

Public Gatherings: Indoor and outdoor gatherings statewide at private residences will be limited to no more than 10 people beginning Friday, November 13, at 10 p.m. Existing non-essential gathering limits are in effect otherwise.

Governor Cuomo Announces Restaurants, Bars & Other SLA-licensed Entities Must Close In-person Service From 10 PM to 5 AM Daily

10.26.20

Ulster reports significant spike in coronavirus cases, including outbreak at Woodland Pond

10.21.20

10.15.20

Update from Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan, 10.15.20 (x): Rapid Testing Will Now Be Available in Ulster County

“Testing kits will be designated for school districts, congregate care facilities, and other identified clusters throughout the county

 

KINGSTON, N.Y. - Ulster County Executive Ryan announced today during his live Facebook briefing that Ulster County is now eligible to receive rapid testing machines and test kits. The County will be submitting their plan today to the New York State Department of Health to receive rapid testing machines and testing kits which will increase the county’s testing capacity. These kits will be employed to assist school districts, congregate care facilities, and other identified clusters. These rapid tests will be provided at the Ulster County Health Department through a drive through system, and those tested will receive their results before they leave the site.

“Rapid response testing will help slow the spread of COVID-19 by expanding accessibility and improving our turnaround time, allowing us to instantly test key facilities and populations,” Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan said. “I want to thank Governor Cuomo and the State Department of Health for providing crucial support and resources to make this a reality and for their partnership in keeping Ulster County residents healthy and safe.”

To support New York’s testing efforts, the New York State Department of Health is now providing a limited basis point of care testing instruments for the virus that causes COVID-19 to local health departments who can demonstrate a plan for their equitable use. Both Abbott BinaxNOW and Abbott ID NOW test cards and machines and test kits are available to local health departments as supply permits. Materials will be provided at no cost so long as testing is open to the public, offered free of charge, and prioritizes vulnerable and at-risk populations that may not currently have equitable access to testing.

Residents can find information about their nearest testing location and both walk-in testing sites and mobile testing sites by visiting https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/covid19-testing/.

For additional information about COVID-19 visit: https://ulstercountyny.gov/coronavirus

Ulster County Recovery Service Center: 845-443-8888”

10.01.20

The New York State Department of Health has released a COVID tracking app. It is now available for download, here.

09.03.20 The K12 Working Parents Remote Learning Working Group charge is to:

In early August, we posted this form on social media (with some distribution via email) in order to identify the particular issues for working parents in our own community associated with K12 schools going fully remote, in local parents’ own words. Here’s what working parents in the NPCSD told us:

·         A majority of working parents in the NPSCD say they have new child care needs and costs, including about seven in ten Duzine parents, two-thirds of Lenape households, as well as over half of single parents, dual income households, essential workers, teachers, and working parents with children who need Special Education

·         Over one third of working parents told us they now will have serious financial challenges in order to pay for child care or learning help for their children with about one in four of these working parents saying they will have to quit their jobs, pause their careers, and/or work or earn less to meet these new needs

·         Across schools, about three in four working parents told us that they cannot successfully work and attend to their children’s remote schooling and this is especially challenging for essential workers, teachers, and parents of students with special needs

·         Working parents told us they need more information to plan for the fall; with more options compared with the spring, along with predictability, structure, and clear student accountability to plan and set expectations

·         About one in ten households cited technology challenges relating to hardware and/or connectivity; one in five working parents of children with special needs cited this need

·         Several parents also said their children needed more engagement and live interaction compared to last spring

·         Working parents voiced concerns about the lack of socialization, screen time with 100% learning, mental health issues due to social isolation, and the need for more outside recreation and activities

·         About one in ten parents are troubled about the need to leave their children home alone, including one in five middle school and high school parents, as well as one in five single parents

·         Many working parents expressed empathy and/or a desire to help those who are worse off than themselves

Click here for the detailed report of findings.  

K12 Working Parents Remote Learning Working Group: 

 Deputy Mayor kt Tobin

 Town Supervisor Neil Bettez

 Village Trustee, Michele Zipp

 Jim Tinger and John House, New Paltz Youth Program

 Melissa Rock, SUNY New Paltz professor and parent

 Nina Personina, parent

 Arielle Chiger, NPUT President

 Aimme Hemminger, MS PTA

 Dianna Smith, SUNY New Paltz Campus Pastor and Food Pantry Director

 Theresa Fall, parent

08.26.20

NEW! Ulster County Farmworker COVID-19 Health Guide

Resources for keeping farms and food systems safe and essential workers healthy.

 

Ulster County’s 400+ farms have 37 permitted migrant housing locations and up to 2000 farm workers seasonally with a peak population in Sep-Nov. This guide is for farmers, farm workers, and producers in Ulster County to help navigate staying healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Guide is housed on our website on the Supporting Farms During COVID-19 page: http://ulster.cce.cornell.edu/supportingfarms

New Local Partnership Is Working to Help Keep a Community Safe and Healthy

“The long-term goal for all of us right now is to prevent an increase in COVID cases,” said Village of New Paltz Mayor Tim Rogers. “In order to achieve this goal, we must all take precautionary measures seriously and in unity. When safety can be ensured for an entire community, we will be able to return to certain events and gatherings that must remain on hold right now.”

08.20.20

Update from the New Paltz Central School District

Two additional livestreamed reopening meetings with Superintendent Angela Urbina-Medina have been planned for Tuesday, August 18 at 5 PM and Thursday, August 20 at 6 PM. Links to access the meetings will be posted to the District’s homepage at www.newpaltz.k12.ny.us approximately 30 minutes prior to the event.

The topic of the August 18 meeting will be Health and Safety Protocols, Transportation, Facilities, and Child Nutrition. The August 20 meeting will focus on K-12 Remote and In Person Instruction, Technology and Connectivity, Supporting Teaching and Learning, and Special Education.

An initial meeting was already held on August 11, which is available at https://bit.ly/3kO6uAR

Participants are able to submit their questions to Superintendent Urbina-Medina in advance of the session using a Google form found on the District homepage or by visiting https://forms.gle/WdRF6P3JhdPmdjLV9

Based on the feedback from participants last week, we are also exploring additional options to improve interaction during the meeting, but are still asking for questions to be submitted on this form. This remote format allows our community to safely participate and eliminates the concern for arranging for childcare or overcoming other logistical challenges. Asking for questions to be submitted in advance allows us to categorize similar questions and obtain answers for any that may require additional research or consultation with other District staff. It also allows parents who cannot tune into the meetings at the scheduled times to view the recordings and still have their questions answered.

We appreciate all of the questions that have arrived so far. We understand how important this information is to everyone and respect the difficulty of decision-making currently facing our families, and so are working to get details in place and out as quickly as possible.

08.14.20

Update from Congressman Antonio Delgado, 08.14.20 (x):

Delgado's offices in New York's 19th Congressional District are in Kingston, Delhi, Oneonta, Liberty and Hudson. Precautions are being taken at each to protect the health and safety of constituents and staff, a press release from the Rhinebeck Democrat said.

 The Kingston office, on Clinton Avenue, can be reached at (845) 443-2930. There also is a phone appointment tool online at delgado.house.gov.

Delgado's Washington, D.C., office can be reached at (202) 225-5614. That office remains closed to the public.”

07.31.20

The New Paltz Central School District Reopening Plan

07.24.20

Update from Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan, 07.14.20 (x):

07.17.20

Updates from the Governor’s Office, 07.16.20 (x):

07.16.20

07.16.20 The state's rent assistance program applications opened today! The deadline is 7/31. Https://hcr.ny.gov/RRP 

07.14.20

07.14.20 Ulster County Economic Development Alliance Launches NY Forward “Ulster Equity” Loan Program

07.10.20

07.08.20

Via Senator Jen Metzger, “Our Hudson Valley and Catskills communities are now in Phase Four of the reopening process, which includes institutions of higher learning, indoor and outdoor museums, outdoor agritourism, media production, and more. For more information and to access detailed guidance for businesses permitted to open in Phase Four, click here.  

Phase Four advancement also means that all gatherings of up to 50 people are permitted, provided that masks are worn and social distancing protocols are adhered to. While we have made tremendous progress in New York in reducing the incidence of hospitalizations and deaths due to the measures we have undertaken, we are by no means in the clear. It is critically important that we continue to follow public health protocols, as recommended by health experts, which can be reviewed here on the CDC’s website.”

07.07.20

07.06.20

07.03.20

In New Paltz we have had a total of 86 confirmed COVID-19 cases, currently we have 3 active cases, and sadly we have lost 4 of our community members to the coronavirus. Currently Ulster County has 143 active cases. The countywide total to date is 1833, sadly with 86 fatalities. On July 1, Ulster County reported 119 active cases. The July 3 uptick is the first significant increase in the number of active cases countywide since mid-May.

==According to the Kingston Freeman: "Reached by phone Friday, Ryan said the resurgence appears to have originated at graduation parties and among migrant workers at an apple orchard in southeastern Ulster, at a manufacturing facility in the “Kingston area” and among inmates at two state prison facilities in southern Ulster."

Ryan called the test results, which were reported online Friday on the Ulster County COVID-19 Dashboard “disheartening,” but said he believes contact tracing is working.

“This is real. This is a very important reminder that COVID is not gone,” Ryan said. “It was a likely scenario as we started to reopen that we’d see some resurgence and I think we’re catching this early enough that we’re hopeful we can contain things.”==

𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐝𝐠𝐞! 𝐭𝐨 𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐘 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓 * 𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐘 𝐒𝐀𝐅𝐄 * 𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐘 𝐋𝐎𝐂𝐀𝐋: 𝐄𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐝𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐲

* I pledge to respect the rules and do my part to keep parks, beaches, trails, boat launches, and other public spaces safe for everyone.

* I will stay local and close to home.

* I will maintain a safe distance from others outside of my household.

* I will wear a mask when I cannot maintain social distancing.

* I accept that this summer, I may have to adjust how I enjoy the outdoors to help keep myself and others healthy and safe, even if it means changing my plans to visit a public space.

* I will be respectful of others by letting them pass by me if needed on a trail and keeping my blanket ten feet apart from others on the beach.

* I will move quickly through shared areas like parking lots, trailheads, and scenic areas to avoid crowding.

* If I'm not feeling well, I will stay home.

𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐇𝐀𝐕𝐄 𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐃𝐆𝐄!

http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/119881.html

07.02.20

06.30.20

06.26.20

Congratulations New Paltz High School Class of 2020!

Tonight at 8:45PM, the NPHS Class of 2020 Commencement video will be posted here: https://www.newpaltz.k12.ny.us/Page/13003?

Abundant thank you's to our high school teachers Mr. Woods, Ms. Mallory, Ms. Masseo, and Mr. Dolan who did the work to create a responsibly social distant graduation experience for and to honor our graduating seniors!

And at 9:00am this morning, the virtual 8th grade moving up ceremony video will be posted here: https://www.newpaltz.k12.ny.us/middleschool

Many thanks to our Middle School PTA for making this virtual ceremony happen!

06.24.20

06.23.20 

Mid-Hudson Valley Cleared to Enter Phase 3 of Reopening Today Business guidance for Phase Three of the state's reopening plan is available here.

06.22.20

06.16.20

06.09.20

Ulster County has been cleared to begin Phase Two of Reopening effective June 9th, 2020

06.07.20

Today (June 7) Governor Cuomo announced he will issue an Executive Order extending the deadline for school districts to receive school budget ballots. To be counted, school budget ballots can be accepted by hand delivery through 5pm on June 9th and received by mail through June 16th by the school district. More info: Governor Cuomo Signs Legislation Extending the Deadline to Submit Absentee Ballots to the Day of the Election 

06.07.20 On Thursday, June 4, Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan and the Ulster County Legislature established the Housing Advisory Committee; Ryan also signed legislation that calls for expansion of the City of Kingston Land Bank into a county-wide land bank; and finally, the application for the Ulster County Emergency Rental Assistance Program is now live (and the deadline for applications is June 12). Please find the application here: https://rupco.org/ulster-county-covid-19-rental-assistance-program-now-open/ 

https://ulstercountyny.gov/…/county-executive-ryan-signs-ne…

==The Emergency Rental Assistance program will target low and moderate-income families in compliance with CDBG requirements. The maximum assistance proposed is $3,000 for up to three months’ rental payments. This is in line with average rents for a one-bedroom apartment. Households will not be asked to contribute any portion of the current monthly income towards their rental payment.

Residents of all municipalities in Ulster County except those in the City of Kingston (which receives a direct CDBG allocation) will be eligible to apply. Additional information on how to apply will be released shortly. Eligible household requirements include:

*Complete the required forms

*Self-Certify that they earn less than 80% AMI;

*Demonstrate that they experienced a loss of income due to COVID-19 and are unable to make rental payments;

*Have a current lease, or landlord agreement;

*Document that they were current on their rent as of March of 2020.

Applications from the Rental Assistance Program are now open and are available on the RUPCO website found here [linked below]. Applications will close June 12th. Parties will be then chosen by a lottery system and awards will be announced by the end of June. ==

06.03.20

𝗩𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗣𝗮𝗹𝘁𝘇 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗮𝗯𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘁𝘀

https://www.newpaltz.k12.ny.us/site/default.aspx?PageID=1

𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝗺𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗯𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝟱 𝗣𝗠 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟵 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗼𝗿’𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝗲𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿, 𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝟱 𝗣𝗠 𝗼𝗻 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟵 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘃𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗱. 𝗜𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝗯𝗼𝘅𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀. 𝗩𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻 𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸 𝗯𝗼𝘅𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀.

==

Ballots for June 9 Election and Budget Vote to be mailed on June 3

Governor Cuomo has ordered that all New York State school district budget votes and the election of members to the Board of Education be conducted by absentee ballot only. 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝗺𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗯𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁 𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗸 𝗯𝘆 𝟱 𝗣𝗠 𝗼𝗻 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟵, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟬.

The New Paltz Central School District and many other districts throughout the state have been working with a third-party company, NTS Data, to print and mail these absentee ballots to registered voters. On Friday, NTS Data informed the District that a mass supply-chain envelope shortage is delaying ballot mailing in dozens of districts, including New Paltz. They anticipate that ballots will not be mailed until Wednesday, June 3.

Given this delay in mailing ballots to voters, along with possible pandemic-related postal system delays, there is concern that there is not sufficient time for mailed ballots to be returned by the 5 PM June 9 deadline. In response, the district is placing locked ballot boxes at each of our four school buildings. The boxes will be monitored by security cameras to safeguard ballots and ensure the integrity of the vote.

The locked ballot boxes will be set up by 5 PM on Thursday, June 4, and will remain in place through Tuesday, June 9 at 5 PM. Per the Governor’s executive order, ballots received after 5 PM on June 9 are not valid. Therefore, voters are encouraged to return ballots to the provided lock boxes at one of these locations.

As a reminder, any qualified voter is entitled to vote via absentee ballot. Registered voters of the District will automatically receive Absentee Ballots by mail. Qualified unregistered voters may request an absentee ballot by completing the Request for Absentee Ballot Form and emailing it to sermo@newpaltz.k12.ny.us. To allow enough time to receive your ballot by mail, please returned this form by June 2, 2020.

To look up whether you are a registered voter, click on this link: https://voterlookup.elections.ny.gov/

For more information regarding the 2020-2021 Budget Vote and Board Election, please visit www.newpaltz.k12.ny.us/Page/12662

If you have any questions, please contact the District Clerk, Sandra Ermo, at 845-256-4020 or email her at sermo@newpaltz.k12.ny.us

05.29.20 

Yesterday, Governor Cuomo empowered businesses to deny service to customers who are not wearing masks: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/amid-ongoing-covid-19-pandemic-governor-cuomo-issues-executive-order-authorizing-businesses

From Congressman Delgado: The IRS has updated their Frequently Asked Questions on Economic Impact Payments (EIPs), or stimulus checks. If you have not received your payment, visit IRS.gov/EIPFAQ and reach out to my office to see how we can be of assistance. https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payment-information-center

05.28.20

County Executive Ryan’s update is at 2:00 today

This week’s local business check in with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor is with Main Street Bistro owners Doug and Teresa Thompson today at 3PM

We'll check in with Main Street Bistro's Teresa & Doug to hear about their business during the pandemic and what they see moving forward.

Click here to watch live on YouTube or see it later after its recording:

https://youtu.be/UuTQnfzTZIc

*leave questions in the comments section and we'll try to address them in real time.

---------------

We're doing weekly videos so businesses may compare notes and to provide a community check in. Here are the earlier talks we've done:

(5/21) Mara Lileas from NP Rock Yoga

https://youtu.be/WZduwPSMzyE

(5/15) President and CEO Michelle Gramoglia from Woodland Pond

https://youtu.be/SkhyTWtPZOY

(5/7) Property manager Valerie Ann Erwin from NP Student Housing

https://youtu.be/z0glwsCPEM8

(4/30) The Bakery’s David Santner

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dooVJd27HU&feature=youtu.be

(4/23) Mike Beck Jr, owner of P&Gs Cornerstone

https://youtu.be/J2puVKRAGu4

(4/16) Michelle & James Walsh from Mudd Puddle Coffee Roasters & Cafe' & Yard Owl Craft Brewery

https://youtu.be/QL_WpkWcuBA

(4/9) Village of New Paltz resident and Executive Director from LEAP, Rich Souto

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08Uq6JO5cFo

Senator Jen Metzger’s Best Practices for Reopening Your Business is at 5:00 today

05.23.20

County Executive Ryan’s statement on entering Phase 1 of reopening 

05.22.20

Governor Andrew Cuomo​ just announced that the Mid-Hudson region will be ending PAUSE and entering Phase 1 on Tuesday, pending enough contact tracers, which state and county officials confidently expect to be in place by then. Details about Phase 1 can be found here:

https://forward.ny.gov/industries-reopening-phase 

"Executive Order 202.10, as later extended by Executive Order 202.18, Executive Order 202.29 and as extended and amended by Executive Order 202.32, which prohibited all non-essential gatherings of any size for any reason, except for any religious service or ceremony, or for the purposes of any Memorial Day service or commemoration, which allowed ten or fewer individuals to gather, provided that social distancing protocols and cleaning and disinfection protocols required by the Department of Health are adhered to is hereby modified to permit any non-essential gathering of ten or fewer individuals, for any lawful purpose or reason, provided that social distancing protocols and cleaning and disinfection protocols required by the Department of Health are adhered to.”

05.21.20

County Executive Ryan’s Thursday Update is at 2:00 today 

Our weekly business chat this week is with Mara from ROCK Yoga at 3:00 today

Congressman Delgado’s 10th Telephone Town Hall is at 4:30 today

Senator Metzger’s Community Conversation about our food supply chain and agriculture is at 5:00 today

05.20.20

05.20 #WearAMask Over the past two weeks NYS collected more than 600 submissions from New Yorkers across the state as part of the "Wear a Mask New York Ad Contest." Vote for the winning ad here:

https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/wear-mask-new-york-ad-contest-cast-your-vote

05.20 Trustee Alex made a document full of lots of mental health resources in an easier format to text to friends, after losing a friend. She’ll be adding to it the next few days. Hope this helps: https://bit.ly/NP-MentalHealth 

05.19.20

From Ulster County: Solid preparation for reopening businesses will help us all to stay safe. The Ulster County Office of Economic Development has the tools and resources small businesses need to reopen responsibly. Please help us keep in touch during this critical time by answering this short and simple survey: Ulster County Phase 1 Reopening Plans Survey

Reminder, County Executive Pat Ryan’s Tuesday Briefing is at 2:00 today

05.18.20

05.18 From ESD today:

1. ESD’s Essential Business Guidance has been updated as of May 16, 2020. Guidance can be found here and is pasted further below.  

·     This guidance updates and supersedes any guidance you may have received to date on this topic.

·     Any business with a pending inquiry must refer to the updated guidelines or the New York Forward website to determine the status of your business. If your business is included in the list of essential businesses, you do not need confirmation of such by ESD. ESD will not be responding to individual requests for determinations.

2. A new online tool has been developed to help determine whether your business is essential or is able to reopen. The New York Forward Business Reopening Lookup Tool can be found here.

3. The State will be issuing new safety and operating guidelines for businesses, including essential businesses and non-essential businesses that are permitted to reopen. Industry-specific guidelines are currently available for business sectors in Phase One: construction; agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting; retail trade; manufacturing; and wholesale trade. Those requirements can be found here.

4. Additional information on the phases of reopenings for businesses and industries can be found here.

05.18 According to the state’s regional dashboard, as of today, the Mid-Hudson region has met 5/7 criteria for reopening. We still need to achieve:

05.18 MODIFIED 2020 Village Spring Cleanup (May 18 through May 29)

-- BRUSH AND BAGGED YARD WASTE ONLY --

Collection for residents who live on streets north of Main Street will begin on May 18. Collection for the south of Main Street will begin on May 26. Village trucks will pick up 1) brush and 2) bagged yard waste in biodegradable bags.

*The Village will NOT be picking up other items this spring. Once we have a clearer picture of fiscal conditions we will work towards setting up a new time to pick up "other items" as we have done in the past.

05.17.20

05.17 Social Distancing and Free Masks Update: As previously announced, our New Paltz police officers have been patrolling our trails and public spaces while handing out washable, reusable cloth face masks. Mayor Tim Rogers and Deputy Mayor KT Tobin will be out again this afternoon handing out free masks on Main Street and our trails. Thank you to everyone who has been compliant with the vital social distancing we need right now.

Free, washable, reusable masks continue to be available at these locations/times:

* New Paltz Police Station at any time  24/7 (83 South Putt Corners Road)

* Family of New Paltz 10am to 5pm Mon thru Fri (51 N Chestnut St)

* Food Not Bombs, across from Wells Fargo (29 Main), Weds 5:30pm-6:00pm

05.17 While we await further guidance from our state and county leaders for more specifics about reopening plans, local leaders want to hear about New Paltz residents' concerns, circumstances, and needs moving forward. Please join representatives from the Village of New Paltz, live on YouTube on Tuesday, May 19th, at 8:30pm, as we gather and discuss questions regarding the next steps we will take as a community. Real-time viewers will be able to submit written questions and comments through the YouTube “chat” feature, and residents are also encouraged to submit written questions prior to the meeting via the form below.

👉Click here to submit a question prior to the meeting: https://forms.gle/AJrMpvybEoLnU2jV8

👉Click here to view and comment on the live meeting: https://youtu.be/PLjUqH7SL-U

This event is the second in a series, you can view the first meeting here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SphtoigJJ7Q

05.17 There are four phases in New York State’s NYForward reopening plan. Businesses in each region will re-open in phases. Reopening refers to non-essential businesses and business activities. Essential businesses and business activities that are open already will remain open. The guidelines and the breakdown of industries by phase can be found here and apply to both non-essential businesses in regions that are permitted to reopen and essential businesses throughout the state that were previously permitted to remain open. Eligibility for reopening will be determined by metrics for each region.

According to the state’s regional dashboard, as of today, the Mid-Hudson region has met 5/7 criteria for reopening. We still need to achieve:

05.14.20

05.14 You can track our regional COVID-19 metrics progress at the Regional dashboard here. As of today, the Mid-Hudson region has met 5/7 criteria for reopening. We still need to achieve:

05.13.20

County Executive Ryan Announces New Dashboard 

https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/dashboard/

Thursday Town Hall with County Executive Pat Ryan

05.12.20

County Executive Pat Ryan will be holding a Live Town Hall with Congressman Antonio Delgado TODAY at 2:00 p.m. Tune-in @ Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan.

05.12 You can track our regional COVID-19 metrics progress at the Regional dashboard here. As of today, the Mid-Hudson region has met 5/7 criteria for reopening. We still need to achieve a 14 day decline in Decline in Deaths and New Hospitalizations which needs to be under 2 per 100K residents and we are currently at 2.79. We are expected to meet Contact Tracing Capacity (30 per 100 residents) very soon.

05.11.20

Governor Cuomo releases reopening plan,”Our plan to safely reopen New York in phases will be guided by science and data.”

Read the full NY Forward plan 

Announcing Community Meeting: New Paltz Next Steps

Thursday, May 14th 3:00pm-4:30pm

Click here to submit a question prior to the meeting

Click here to view and comment on the live meeting

Or copy and paste this url into your browser: https://youtu.be/SphtoigJJ7Q

While we await further guidance from our state and county leaders for more specifics about reopening plans, local leaders want to hear about your concerns, circumstances, and needs moving forward. Please join representatives from the Village and Town of New Paltz, live on YouTube on Thursday, May 14th, from 3:00pm to 4:30pm, as we gather and discuss questions regarding the next steps we will take as a community. Real-time viewers will be able to submit written questions and comments through the YouTube “chat” feature, and residents are also encouraged to submit written questions prior to the meeting via this form.

This community forum will better inform what we need to communicate to county and state leadership. This community feedback will also be essential to the formulation of our local plan for our next steps in coordination with county and state guidelines.

Facebook event here

05.09.20

05.09  On May 7, Governor Cuomo signed Executive Order 202.28, which can be read in full here: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/no-20228-continuing-temporary-suspension-and-modification-laws-relating-disaster-emergency 

Most notably, this Executive Order explicitly bans late payments or fees for missed rent payments during the eviction moratorium, which is now extended through August 20, 2020. EO 202.28 also allows renters facing hardship to use security deposits as payment, and outlines that process.

Furthermore, EO 202.28 sets the legal groundwork for NY PAUSE to continue beyond May 15 if the Governor deems it necessary; please see clarification regarding the possible extension of NY on PAUSE from Secretary to the Governor Melissa DeRosa: "[Thursday’s] Executive Order extended the underlying legal authority for the Emergency Order, but did not change the text of any of the directives in NY ON PAUSE and so the expiration date of May 15 still stands until further notice. At that time, new guidance will be issued for regions based on the metrics outlined by Governor Cuomo earlier this week."

05.09 Here is the video from our first weekly Public Expression of Grief and Hope ritual at Peace Park on Friday, May 8th. Please note that these Friday rituals are being live-streamed in order to reach the community while still adhering to social distancing guidelines. Please participate in these events from the safety of your own home!

05.08.20

New website launched Much like a lighthouse, the New Paltz Opioid Prevention Team (OPT) is vigilant in its mission to offer help and hope to those navigating through the “storms and rough waters” that are often present in the lives of those who are living with an opioid use disorder or addiction. They have launched a new website:

https://www.opioidpreventionnp.org/

05.07.20

05.07 As Covid-19 has taken people and places from us it has also taken the ways in which we celebrate and say goodbye. We may not be able to share a physical space, but we can build new ways to come together to grieve, share concern, and look forward with hope. Starting tomorrow, Fridays at noon, we will be having a weekly Public Expression of Grief and Hope ritual at Peace Park which will run live on local Channel 23 and be live-streamed to our Public Access YouTube page (and available for later viewing). Thank you Reverend Jennifer Berry for initiating and making this wonderful idea happen. Video announcement here. Please note that this is being live-streamed in order to reach the community while still adhering to social distancing guidelines. Please participate in this event from the safety of your own home!

05.07  Governor Andrew Cuomo just now in his daily briefing reminded us that no one can be evicted for non-payment of rent through June. Stay tuned for another Executive Order that will ALSO take steps to ban late payment fees, allow people to put security deposit toward rent, and will furthermore EXTEND THE MORATORIUM ON EVICTION UNTIL August 20th.

05.06.20

05.06 Reminder, Town and Village courts in NYS remain closed.

If you have any questions about the New Paltz Town Court you may email newpaltztowncourt@nycourts.gov or fax to (845) 255-0814 or mail to Town of New Paltz Justice Court, 23 Plattekill Avenue, New Paltz, NY, 12561.

05.05.20 

Today's Community Conversations (5:00-5:30) with Senator Jen Metzger's topic is Domestic Violence. Kellyann Kostyal-Larrier of Fearless Hudson Valley, Inc. will discuss domestic violence during COVID-19 and share resources for those experiencing violence at home.

05.o3.20

Social Distancing Update: As previously announced, our New Paltz police officers have been patrolling our trails and public spaces while handing out washable, reusable cloth face masks. Trustee William Murray and our police are also bringing masks to households that have requested delivery. Mayor Tim Rogers and Deputy Mayor KT Tobin have been out this weekend handing out free masks and they will be out again this afternoon on Main Street and our trails. Thank you to everyone who has been compliant with the vital social distancing we need right now.

Free, washable, reusable masks can also be picked up at these locations/times:

* Family of New Paltz 10am to 5pm Mon thru Fri (51 N Chestnut St)

* New Paltz Police Station at any time (83 South Putt Corners Road)

* Food Not Bombs, across from Wells Fargo (29 Main), Weds 5:30pm-6:00pm

05.02.20 

Ulster County DA Dave Clegg Announces New Special Crimes Unit To Combat COVID-19 Related Crimes KINGSTON, N.Y.  — Ulster County District Attorney David J. Clegg announced the creation of a Special Crimes Unit to address COVID-19 related crimes. “We believe there is a growing need to combat the fraudsters and scammers that take advantage of the fears and vulnerabilities created by the pandemic,” said Clegg.

05.01 Happy May Day!

05.01 𝗡𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝗮 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴? 𝗪𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝘀𝗸𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂! Social distancing and face-covering measures may be in place for a long time. We want to make sure our community has what they need.

This week, New Paltz received 3,000 washable, reusable cloth masks, provided by the federal government via the county, to distribute in our community. The Town and Village Boards of New Paltz have decided to prioritize getting these masks to residents who are the most likely to not be able to afford or have access to them. We have already begun delivering these masks to our non-profit partners and apartment complexes for distribution.

Washable, reusable masks can be picked up at:

* Family of New Paltz 10am to 5pm Mon thru Fri (51 N Chestnut St)

* New Paltz Police Station at any time (83 South Putt Corners Road)

* Food Not Bombs, across from Wells Fargo (29 Main), Weds 5:30pm-6:00pm

* This weekend, we will be distributing masks at locations throughout the community

You can also sign up at this google form link to have washable, reusable masks delivered to you for each member of your household. Please note that this is a trial run for delivering masks and that supplies are limited to first come first serve!

Rep. Delgado Telephone Town Hall Focused on Coronavirus

Friday, May 1, 2020 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Dial in: 855-905-3295

04.29 3,000 masks being distributed in New Paltz free of charge On April 15th, Governor Cuomo released an executive order requiring “any individual who is over age two and able to medically tolerate a face-covering shall be required to cover their nose and mouth with a mask or cloth face-covering when in a public place and unable to maintain, or when not maintaining, social distance.”

To be clear, a simple cloth covering like a bandana or piece of cloth suffices in terms of this directive, and masks need only be on when you cannot be far enough away from others who you are not regularly exposed to already because they are not part of your shelter-in-place isolation unit. Also note that while the directive states that face-coverings need only be worn if you are “unable to maintain, or when not maintaining, social distance,” making it okay to not have your face covered all the time, we recommend as a good practice to make your mask or face-covering visible when not wearing it (e.g. around your neck), signalling to others that you are prepared to cover your mouth and nose if need be. Please also be aware, it is hard to know who is and is not part of a household unit, there are many different types of household configurations, so don’t assume people are isolating in groups that look like what is considered a traditional family unit.

There is a process for reporting when residents see that these rules might be being broken. The New York State PAUSE Enforcement Assistance Task Force assists local authorities with the enforcement of Executive Orders 202.6, 202.7, 202.8, 202.10, and 202.11 that directed all non-essential businesses to close their in-person operations and banned all non-essential gatherings of individuals of any size for any reason. Suspected violations can be reported through their online form at https://mylicense.custhelp.com/app/ask or by calling 1-833-789-0470. Note: specific complaints from employees against their employers should be directed to the Department of Labor through their online form (https://labor.ny.gov/…/laborsta…/coronavirus-complaints.shtm).

It is important to note that the state has instructed authorities to use the least invasive enforcement approach necessary to achieve compliance. In other words, unless the circumstances are particularly egregious, authorities are using the first violation as an opportunity to inform New Yorkers of the orders and their responsibility to protect the health and safety of themselves and others. Subsequent non-compliance may be subject to enforcement. To date, for the most part, our police have consistently experienced that a little bit of education is resulting in compliance.

We continue to strongly encourage that people who are not compromised get outside in public spaces and to shop at essential businesses for what they need, as long as it is done safely and aligned with the state’s social distancing directives. This week, New Paltz received 3,000 washable cloth masks, provided by the federal government via the county, to distribute in our community. The Town and Village Boards of New Paltz have decided to prioritize distributing these masks to residents who are the most likely to not be able to afford or have access to them. (The county is already distributing masks to all Project Resilience recipients.)

As such, we have developed a plan to ensure that residents are aware of the guidelines and have face-coverings if they need them:

* Added signage in the form of lawn signs along and adjacent to our trails and open spaces, as well as flyers to be distributed to and posted at local businesses

* Added police foot and bike patrols on days with increased outdoor activity

* Elected officials as well as members of the police and fire departments and the rescue squad will be distributing masks at supermarkets and apartment complexes starting this weekend, we will provide more details on times and locations soon

* Starting today, masks can be picked up at Food Not Bombs, across the street from Wells Fargo (29 Main), Wednesdays from 5:30pm-6:00pm

* Also starting today, masks can be picked up at any time at the New Paltz Police Station, 83 South Putt Corners Road

* Other non-profit partners that serve marginalized communities will be provided with masks to give to their clients, we will provide more details soon

And of course we are continuing to post about proper social distancing on our websites and social media, and to regularly update our online COVID document with the latest news and resources. Please find and bookmark that here: bit.ly/NewPaltz-COVID19

04.28.20

The next Facebook Town Hall with Pat Ryan will be tomorrow, 4/30, at 2:00

04.27.20

04.27 Facebook Town Hall with Pat Ryan

Senator Jen Metzger has just announced an upcoming series of informative community conversations. The half-hour-long digital episodes will be live-streamed on her Facebook page on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:00 PM for the next four consecutive weeks, and will include a Q&A with participating viewers. The schedule for the next four weeks is as follows:

Tuesday, April 28: Regional Medical Overview

Guest: Kenneth Steier, Dean of Touro Medical School

Thursday, April 30: Food Insecurity and How to Help

Guest: Michele McKeon from Regional Economic Community Action Program

Tuesday, May 5: Domestic Violence during COVID-19

Guest: Kellyanne Costyal-Larrier of Fearless

Thursday, May 7: Education Resources for Students, Teachers, and Families

Guests: A high school and elementary special ed teacher from Sullivan County

Tuesday, May 12: COVID-19 Mental Health Awareness

Guests: Amy Nitza and Karla Vermeule from the Institute for Disaster Mental Health at SUNY New Paltz

Thursday, May 14: Paying Your Bills and Preventing Shut-Offs

Guest: Laurie Wheelock, Esq., from the Public Utility Law Project

Tuesday, May 19: Preventing Senior Scams and Sharing Legal Resources

Guests: Jenny Turpin and Jaime Samarel from Legal Services of the Hudson Valley

Thursday, May 21: The Food Supply Chain and N.Y. Agriculture

Guest: Maire Ullrich of Cornell University Cooperative Extension Orange County

04.27 Presidential Primary canceled in NY -- New Paltz voters do not have a June 23rd primary election, so New Paltz voters should not be expecting to be mailed absentee ballots. Note: these cancellations do not apply to School District-related votes, please stay tuned for information on those. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/27/us/politics/democratic-primary-canceled-coronavirus.html

04.26.20

04.26 Governor Cuomo Outlines Phased Plan to Re-open New York Starting With Construction and Manufacturing and Issues Executive Order Allowing Pharmacists to Conduct Diagnostic Testing for COVID-19

04.26 On Monday, April, 27, 2020 the Small Business Administration will resume accepting PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) loan applications. If you or any other Ulster County business you know need information or assistance in order to obtain an SBA loan, please contact the Ulster County Department of Economic Development at: oed@co.ulster.ny.us or 845-340-3556. For more information on the Paycheck Protection Program, visit  sba.gov/paycheckprotection 

04.26 New York State Police have reported a 15 percent increase in domestic violence incidents over last year. Calls to the state's domestic violence hotline are up 30 percent in April compared to last year, and calls increased 18 percent from February to March of this year. Given this spike in domestic violence reports, the governor has launched a new service that domestic violence victims can text for help or visit a confidential website to connect them to professional help. Both are staffed 24/7 by the Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence staff members. If you're in need of assistance, the number to text is 844-997-2121 or visit www.opdv.ny.gov for more information or a confidential chat.

04.25.20

04.25 Governor Cuomo Announces Expansion of Diagnostic Testing Criteria to Include All First Responders, Health Care Workers and Essential Employees

04.25 Governor Cuomo signed Executive Order No. 202.23: Continuing Temporary Suspension and Modification of Laws Relating to the Disaster Emergency relating to June elections and nursing homes -- Last night (4/24), Governor Cuomo signed Executive order 202.23 which provides that all active or inactive voters who are eligible to vote in June 23 primary elections will be mailed an absentee ballot with postage paid. This is the election that was scheduled for the end of April, and rescheduled to June 23 under a previous Executive Order. For information on whether or not you are eligible to vote in the June 23 primary election, please contact our local Board of Elections: www.VoteUlster.com 

04.25 The Offices of NYS Senator Metzger will be launching “Community Conversations,” a twice-weekly Facebook livestream series starting next week, featuring experts knowledgeable on selected topics important to our communities. The half-hour-long digital episodes will be livestreamed on Senator Metzger’’s Facebook page on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:00 PM for the next four consecutive weeks, and will include a Q&A with participating viewers. (If you do not have a Facebook account, you will still be able to view the livestream.) This is a great opportunity for the public to ask questions and hear from experts in our region to gain useful guidance during this challenging time.

04.24.20

04.24 From the School District MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL GRADING DURING REMOTE LEARNING Final numeric course grades will be based upon numeric grades in quarters 1-3. Numeric grades for quarter 3 are those in place as of March 13th with adjustments as teacher determined for previously announced assignments due at a later date. Summative (final) grades during the period of Remote Learning (presumably the 4th quarter) are P/F. In instances where the numeric grade on March 13th is below passing, students may earn a passing numeric grade (65 or above) for the course as a result of their passing work during Remote Learning. Teachers may use qualitative and/or quantitative feedback (grading) for student work during Remote Learning.

04.24 Family of New Paltz food drive on Tuesday April 28th 2:00-5:00, in the parking lot so as to keep people out of the building. The pantry is doing well, but running low on some items. They are especially in need of jelly, canned fruit and pork & beans. If you prefer to make a donation venmo @Jen-simonepuleo. You can donate any of the non-perishable items on this list, as well as feminine hygiene products and toiletries. Bread is also a great option for donation. Contact: Jen Simone Puleo

04.24 The latest from Senator Metzger

PLANS TO REOPEN NEW YORK STATE: The governor announced this week that the state will take steps to reopen the economy gradually on a regional basis, and will work with local governments to interpret data specific to that area, using CDC guidelines as a blueprint. New York has joined a coalition of eastern states, including New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Delaware, and Massachusetts, which have all pledged to work together to plan for reopening the region’s economies. A concerted effort is necessary so that the actions of one state do not inadvertently cause the outbreak to worsen. We do not want to undo the progress made to date in controlling transmission of the virus, which would, in effect, prolong the economic slowdown. We all want to get back to normal as soon as possible, and I fully support a phased opening of our economy, regionally, beginning at the earliest date that we can do so safely.

 

SMALL BUSINESS LOANS UPDATE: This week, the federal government reached an agreement on a $484 billion legislative package to expand funding for small business loans, among other important provisions, and is expected to be signed by the President in the coming days. A large portion of the funding ($320 billion) will go toward the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which provides eligible businesses with temporary cash flow, and $60 billion for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (EIDL), including a new provision that now allows farms and other agriculture businesses to participate in EIDL loans. More information about these programs can be found on Small Business Administration's website, HERE.

 

UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE UPDATE: My office is working around the clock to assist hundreds of constituents seeking to obtain Unemployment Insurance (UI) and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits. For anyone who has emailed or left a voicemail for us, and has not heard back yet, you will receive a call from a member of my Constituent Services staff who will work with you to take down all of the necessary information, and then notify the Department of Labor (DOL) of the problems you are experiencing so that DOL can expedite a call back or clarify the status of your application. If you plan on reaching out to my office about UI or PUA benefits, but have not yet done so, please be prepared to share the following: your full name, home address, phone, email, the last four digits of your SSN, a brief summary of the issue(s) you are experiencing, and the date you started your UI or PUI application. My team and I are doing everything we can to expedite this process for you.

 

FEDERAL STIMULUS CHECK:  As part of the federal stimulus package, you may be eligible for a payment from the federal government. Last week, the IRS began to send out the first wave of COVID-19 stimulus checks for up to $1,200 per person, with an additional $500 going to parents for each child they claim as a dependent who is 16 or younger, using the banking information on file for taxpayers’ 2018 or 2019 tax returns. You can visit bit.ly/2XKtw2r to find out if you are eligible to receive a federal stimulus payment, track its timing or submit your information if you did not file tax returns in 2018 or 2019.

04.23.20

04.23 Information Regarding Moriello Pool Opening for the 2020 Season

As we look forward to any change in status regarding the coronavirus epidemic and social distancing, we are all dreaming about summer and a return to normalcy. One of the great New Paltz summer traditions is the Memorial Day opening of Moriello Pool.

Unfortunately, this year, we can not predict with any certainty that we will be able to open on time, late, or at all. With over 40,000 annual visitors, we know that this is something many of us are looking forward to -- for early morning swims, summer jobs, birthday parties, swim lessons and practice, lifetime memories with friends and neighbors, or just a cool dip on a hot summer day. Hope is a great thing in times like these, and it is with great hope that we are preparing to have the pool ready to go whenever precautions are lifted. Not only does all equipment need to be in order and staffing in place, but we also need to have health permits issued by Ulster County upon the decision of New York State, and we do not know what decisions will be made on those levels due to this global pandemic. Although it is a worst-case scenario, we need to be aware that the pool may not open at all this summer. We will keep the public informed as we receive any updates or changes.

04.22.20 Happy Earth Day!

04.22 Village Board unanimously passes Resolution #15 of 2020 regarding Water/Sewer payments Due 6/30. The Resolution states: “any payments not received by April 30, 2021 will be re-levied onto property owners taxes of June 1. 2021; THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that late fees for water and sewer payments due on June 30, 2020 be waived.” View the full Resolution HERE

04.22 County Executive Ryan Announces Special COVID-19 Tenant Protection Unit

County Executive Pat Ryan announced today the creation of a new unit to exclusively review tenant complaints related to COVID-19. To make a tenant complaint with the Ulster County Tenant Protection Unit, go to THIS FORM

04.22 Ulster County Executive Ryan Announces Third COVID-19 Testing Site in Midtown Kingston and Details a New Effort to Assist Senior Living Facilities

Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan today held a live briefing on COVID-19. In his address, County Executive Ryan detailed new efforts between the Ulster County Health Department and senior living facilities in Ulster County to provide a rapid response team. County Executive Ryan has directed the Health Department to reach out to all senior living facilities that are at high risk to offer guidance and to better coordinate a COVID-19 response. This rapid response team will support these facilities with testing, PPE, and setting up health protocols. Ulster County has 13 senior living facilities. 

04.21.20

https://ag.ny.gov/press-release/2020/stimulus-payments-will-be-limits-debt-collectors-after-attorney-general-james

04.20.20

Family of New Paltz food drive on Tuesday April 28th 2:00-5:00, in the parking lot so as to keep people out of the building. The pantry is doing well, but running low on some items. They are especially in need of jelly, canned fruit and pork & beans. If you prefer to make a donation venmo @Jen-simonepuleo. You can donate any of the non-perishable items on this list, as well as feminine hygiene products and toiletries. Bread is also a great option for donation.

Letter from the Town and Village leadership 04.20.20:

For the past few weeks downtown New Paltz and its adjacent trails and open spaces have been mostly empty, but with beautiful weather after a snowy Friday into Saturday, on Sunday, April 19, we saw an uptick in the number of people out and about in our community. Being able to get outside during the PAUSE is very important, especially in a village where the great majority of our residents are renters and often do not have access to private yards. We continue to strongly encourage that people get outside in public spaces, as long as it is done safely and aligned with the state’s social distancing directives. We write today to make sure people are aware of and have the right facts related to New York State's social distancing rules and process.

On April 15th , Governor Cuomo released an executive order requiring “any individual who is over age two and able to medically tolerate a face-covering shall be required to cover their nose and mouth with a mask or cloth face-covering when in a public place and unable to maintain, or when not maintaining, social distance.”  To be clear, a simple cloth covering like a bandana or piece of cloth suffices in terms of this directive, and masks only need to be on when you cannot be far enough away from others who you are not regularly exposed to already because they are not part of your shelter-in-place isolation unit. And be aware, there are many different types of household configurations, please don’t assume people are isolating in groups that look like what is considered a traditional family unit.

There is also a process for reporting when residents see that these rules might be being broken. The New York State PAUSE Enforcement Assistance Task Force assists local authorities with the enforcement of Executive Orders 202.6, 202.7, 202.8, 202.10, and 202.11 that directed all non-essential businesses to close their in-person operations and banned all non-essential gatherings of individuals of any size for any reason. Suspected violations can be reported through their online form at https://mylicense.custhelp.com/app/ask or by calling 1-833-789-0470. Note: specific complaints from employees against their employers should be directed to the Department of Labor through their online form (https://labor.ny.gov/workerprotection/laborstandards/coronavirus-complaints.shtm).

It is important to note that the state has instructed authorities to use the least invasive enforcement approach necessary to achieve compliance. In other words, unless the circumstances are particularly egregious, authorities are using the first violation as an opportunity to inform New Yorkers of the orders and their responsibility to protect the health and safety of themselves and others. Subsequent non-compliance may be subject to enforcement.

This past weekend we received six reports of possible violations (four through the state and two from direct calls to the police). These reports were investigated when received and in instances of verified violations, warnings were issued. To date, for the most part, our police have consistently experienced that a little bit of education is resulting in compliance.

Looking forward, in expectation that New Paltz will continue to be a magnet for outdoor activities, we are: planning to increase our police foot and bike patrols on days with increased outdoor activities; planning to increase signage at our entryways and along the Main Street corridor, as well as with flyers for businesses and organizations to post; and next weekend, several village and town elected officials will be setting up info tables at strategic locations as well as walking our crowded spaces to inform people about the rules and offer face-coverings to people who need them.

And of course we are continuing to post about proper social distancing on our websites and social media, and to regularly update our online COVID document with the latest news and resources. Please find and bookmark that here: bit.ly/NewPaltz-COVID19 

Thank you for your cooperation,

Town Supervisor Neil Bettez

Police Chief* Robert Lucchesi

Village Mayor Tim Rogers

Deputy Mayor KT Tobin

Note: Lt. Lucchesi will be our new police chief effective 04.25.20

04.19.2020

Virtual marriage now permitted through May 18, 2020. On Saturday (4/18), Governor Cuomo signed Executive Order 202.20 which states: authorizes any issuance of a marriage license application, marriage license, or witnessing or solemnizing of the marriage ceremony, that is required under New York State law to be performed utilizing audio-video technology, provided all the conditions outlined in the Executive Order are met. Read EO 202.20 here: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/no-20220-continuing-temporary-suspension-and-modification-laws-relating-disaster-emergency

04.17.20

Congressman Antonio Delgado held his fifth telephone town hall focused on #COVID19 in our communities on 04.17.20. Dial 855-905-3295 to join the conversation, or watch at Delgado.House.gov/live.

Join State Senator Jen Metzger on Sunday, April 26, 3PM to 4PM for a chance to receive state legislative updates and ask questions. Those who would like to participate must register at bit.ly/VirtualCWJ by 5:00PM on Saturday, April 25. Participants will receive Zoom login details via email on the morning of Sunday, April 26.

04.16.20

Governor Cuomo has extended the PAUSE to May 15th

Face coverings required by ALL in public starting Friday night — From Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Executive Order 202.17, dated 4/15/2020 — Effective at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2020 any individual who is over age two and able to medically tolerate a face-covering shall be required to cover their nose and mouth with a mask or cloth face-covering when in a public place and unable to maintain, or when not maintaining, social distance.

https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/no-20217-continuing-temporary-suspension-and-modification-laws-relating-disaster-emergency

04.16.20

IRS states that all stimulus checks should be received by those who qualify by April 24. If you did not file taxes last year (here’s looking at you, recent grads and some seniors!) you can fill out this non-filer form to be able to get your stimulus: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here 

04.15.20

Breaking: Stay tuned for the Governor’s latest Executive Order (language & guidance forthcoming) requiring ALL people to wear face masks or coverings in public in situations where social distancing is not possible. This EO will go into effect later this week (and has not been signed yet, but will be soon) so you have time to plan your fave covering routine if you haven’t been doing so already.

[from March, added to this doc 04.14.20] Transfer Station COVID-19 Protocol: We are asking you to hold onto your plastic. For two years the UCRRA (Town vendor) has only accepted bottles, jugs and tubs. Staff cannot and should not be sorting out unacceptable plastics such as unwashed food containers, toothbrushes, etc. Please hold plastic until NY on PAUSE order is lifted and staff will go over what items are acceptable. NOTE: this is not applicable to County Waste customers; plz continue to recycle as usual.

04.14.20

You can check your eligibility for or the status of your stimulus payment from the federal government at https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment 

Assemblymember Cahill Informs Residents of Tax Filing Changes Urges Those Expecting a Refund to File ASAP Regardless of 90-Day Extension

The changes to this year’s filing process are as follows: NYS & Federal filing deadline for personal income tax returns has been extended from April 15 to July 15, 2020; Extension includes estimated tax payments for tax year 2020 that are due on April 15, 2020; Taxpayers do not need to file any additional forms nor call the IRS or NYS Department of Taxation & Finance to formally request or apply for this relief because returns due on April 15, 2020 will automatically be granted the filing and payment deadline extension, including relief from penalties and interest; These changes are applicable to all individual returns (including self-employment income), trusts and corporations; Penalties and interest will begin to accrue on any remaining unpaid balances as of July 16, 2020; Individual taxpayers who need additional time to file federal taxes beyond the July 15th deadline can request a filing extension by submitting federal Form 4868; Individual taxpayers who need additional time to file state taxes beyond the July 15th deadline can request a filing extension by submitting state Form IT-370; Partnerships and fiduciaries who need additional time to file state taxes beyond the July 15th deadline can request a filing extension by submitting Form IT-370-PF; Businesses who need additional time to file federal taxes beyond the July 15th deadline must submit federal Form 7004; an Extensions will provide more time to submit your return but not more time to pay any tax owed; therefore, you must make full payment of the properly estimated tax balance owed when requesting an additional extension of time to file.

Assemblymember Cahill is also encouraging those expecting a refund this year to file as soon as possible, regardless of the 90-day extension.  “Even with the filing deadline pushed back, folks are continuing to submit their returns – with most refunds still being issued within 21 days thanks, in part, to the quick turnaround of online processing,” he said.

 

04.13.20

Via Senator Jen Metzger

04.12.20

04.16 Pat Ryan Small Business Town Hall with Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul

Join Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan and Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday, April 16 at 2 PM via Zoom Webinar for a Small Business Town Hall.  Zoom Webinar registration link: bit.ly/UCBizWebinar3

Please follow the link below to fill out a form prior to the Webinar with questions you'd like to ask County Executive Ryan and Lieutenant Governor Hochul. Form link: bit.ly/UCBizQuestions

Hang out with New Paltz Youth Program Live on Instagram every day at 4:00

Governor Cuomo Will Issue an Executive Order Directing Employers to Provide Masks to Employees Who Interact with the Public

04.10.20

Governor Cuomo announced a new partnership with the New York State Court System to create a pro bono network of volunteer lawyers to provide New Yorkers with free legal assistance. Volunteers will begin to receive training and start offering assistance next week. Lawyers interested in volunteering can sign up at www.nysba.org/covidvolunteer.

Governor Cuomo Sent Letter Calling on the U.S. Treasury to Ensure New Yorkers Do Not Have Their Stimulus Payments Frozen by Banks or Seized by Creditors as Soon as They Arrive

04.09.20

Governor Cuomo has created the New York State PAUSE Enforcement Assistance Task Force and compliant filing system to assist local authorities with enforcement of Executive Orders 202.6, 202.7, 202.8, 202.10, and 202.11 that directed all non-essential businesses to close their in-person operations and banned all non-essential gatherings of individuals of any size for any reason. Individuals can file complaints regarding the operation of non-essential businesses or gatherings 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through an online form or by calling 1-833-789-0470.

Ulster County launched an online coronavirus chat tool to respond to residents’ questions and concerns regarding COVID-19, as well as serve as a resource for county-specific information, County Executive Pat Ryan said. The online chat tool can be found on Ulster County’s COVID-19 Virtual Center, https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/

In addition to the online chat, residents can continue to utilize the Ulster County COVID-19 Hotline at (845) 443-8888. The hotline is now available in Spanish.

04.08.20

The Village Board unanimously passed Resolution #13 of 2020: memorializing the waiving of late fees for water and sewer payments due on March 30, 2020. Read the full Resolution here: https://bit.ly/LateFeesWaivedThruMarch30 

04.07.20

Reminder: the NYS Burn Ban prohibiting residential brush burning is in effect

04.06.20

Coming on 04.16.20 County Leadership in Troubling Times

04.05 From County Executive Pat Ryan, “Based on our projections, we will run out of both beds and ventilators by week’s end. We have been working around the clock to address this, and soon we will be announcing another initiative to add additional bed capacity in Ulster County. I’m proud that we have been successful in the production of our own PPE and in ramping up testing through our two mobile sites, but we still have urgent needs. With lives on the line, I won’t rest until we close these gaps.”

More information: bit.ly/COVID19UpdateUlster

04.05 From Governor Cuomo:

04.05 Letter from the New Paltz Central School District Superintendent Josefsberg:

Face to face schooling has been shut down for less than a month. It seems an era ago. I hope that you and your family are keeping healthy and adjusting as well as possible. Today, the New York Board of Regents cancelled Regents Examinations for this year. Additionally, the Governor extended his school closure order to April 29th.

... Lastly, the Governor has postponed school budget elections to early June. State level revenue shortfalls will most likely reduce local school district aid for the 2020-21 academic year.

04.05.20

04.05 From Governor Cuomo

Sign up for nightly emails from Governor Cuomo with the facts you should know about the novel coronavirus pandemic.

04.01.20

Ulster County confirms two more COVID-19 deaths “Both were males: a 49-year-old from the town of New Paltz and a 55-year-old from the town of Plattekill. For reasons of privacy, specific information was not provided.”

Woodland Pond employee tests positive for COVID-19 An employee at Woodland Pond who worked in the retirement community’s Assisted Living unit has tested positive for COVID-19

Nobody Leaves Mid-Hudson has launched a collective effort to call thousands of community members to check in on them during the crisis, connect them to resources, and ensure they fill out the census. You can learn how to make calls & join us here! bit.ly/callyourneighbor

As of 5pm on March 16, 2020 all non-essential Court functions in the New York State Courts were postponed until further notice. Parties will be advised of rescheduled Court dates when normal business resumes. A list of essential court functions can be found here. If you have any questions about the New Paltz Town Court you may email newpaltztowncourt@nycourts.gov or fax to (845) 255-0814 or mail to Town of New Paltz Justice Court, 23 Plattekill Avenue, New Paltz, NY, 12561.

03.29.20

New York on PAUSE through April 15: During his 3/29 briefing, Governor Cuomo announced a two-week extension of  New York State on PAUSE, which shut down all non-essential business and public gatherings when the policy originally went into effect on 3/22; the policy will be renewed in two-week intervals as needed.

The Village Building Department issued this helpful guidance regarding “essential” vs. “non-essential” construction; this memo follows the 3/27 update to the NY Pause Policy which shut down non-essential construction --

Governor Cuomo also announced in this 3/29 briefing that pharmacies have agreed to offer free home delivery to help reduce long lines for prescriptions at their facilities. https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/home

—-

If you or someone you know needs help addressing a substance use and/or mental health issue, you can contact the Access Virtual Urgent Care hotline at 1-888-750-2266, and choose option 2. This service is offered by Access: Supports For Living and provides Hudson Valley residents with 24/7 access to therapists and peer support. Learn more at https://accesssupports.org/

03.28.20

Basketball and pickle ball courts CLOSED until further notice. Hasbrouck Park remains closed for regular activity. Here are some other options for getting outside: http://bit.ly/NPOutdoors

Some local business owners have created a much prettier and user-friendly We Are Still Open Hudson Valley website, so we are retiring  https://bit.ly/NP-Businesses.

Check out https://werestillopenhv.com/ and encourage businesses to enter their current information here: https://werestillopenhv.com/join/

^^they can be reached by email too: info@werestillopenhv.com

Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan has proclaimed this Saturday, March 28th, as "Shop Ulster Saturday," in a joint effort with the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce to support small businesses. Locally owned small businesses are the lifeblood of our Ulster County economy and it is especially important that we show them our support during the COVID-19 crisis. Even though their front doors are closed to shoppers, their virtual doors are wide open. Go online this Saturday and purchase a gift card from one of our many great local Ulster County stores, shops and restaurants and then use that card later in the year or give away as a gift for a birthday, anniversary or even during the holidays! https://www.facebook.com/events/2376851785948351/

03.27.20

From Governor Cuomo:

Schools will not reopen on April 1st and will be reassessed on April 15th.

Total cases in NYS is over 44,000.

NPCSD Letter to parents about remote learning from the principals

03.26.20

From Congressman Antonio Delgado 03.26.20:

#NY19 small businesses and self-employed owners: the U.S. Small Business Administration website is seeing high traffic—if you need assistance, please reach out to his office at (845) 443-2930.

Due to the evolving Covid-19 health crisis, the Village of New Paltz is postponing this year’s Spring Pick Up of both brush and household material until further notice. Once a new date is determined, the Village will notify residents via the newspaper, on the Village website and social media. Please email any questions to the DPW at dpw@villageofnewpaltz.org.

We have received several inquiries about donating-providing PPE equipment. Please refer to this ESD page with PPE sourcing info. 

 Central Hudson Announces More than $1 Million in Grants & Community Assistance 

03.25.20

03.25 VONP Board of Trustees passes Resolution in Support of Rent Flexibility & in Support of NYS Legislation to Cancel Rent & Mortgages for 90 Days Due to COVID-19 -- read that Resolution here: https://bit.ly/VONPResolution-CancelRent 

Ulster Publishing suspends print publication starting this week

From Governor Cuomo 03.25 - New York State COVID-19 Emotional Support Hotline 1-844-863-9314 for mental health counseling

Governor Cuomo: "We asked for mental health professionals to voluntarily sign up to provide online mental health services. Six thousand mental health professionals agreed to volunteer to provide mental health services for people who need it. How beautiful is that?"

Cuomo: "God bless the 6,000 mental health professionals who are doing this 100 percent free, on top of whatever they have to do in their normal practice."

03.25 SUNY institute offers COVID-19 training for leaders, coping tips for citizens

Sign up for nightly emails from Governor Cuomo with the facts you should know about the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Congressman Delgado’s office is sending updates with important information and resources to address the #Coronavirus pandemic and keep our communities healthy. Sign up here: https://delgado.house.gov/contact/newsletter-subscribe

The Governor's 10-point NYS on PAUSE plan is as follows:

  1. Effective at 8PM on Sunday, March 22, all non-essential businesses statewide will be closed;
  2. Non-essential gatherings of individuals of any size for any reason (e.g. parties, celebrations or other social events) are canceled or postponed at this time;
  3. Any concentration of individuals outside their home must be limited to workers providing essential services and social distancing should be practiced;
  4. When in public individuals must practice social distancing of at least six feet from others;
  5. Businesses and entities that provide other essential services must implement rules that help facilitate social distancing of at least six feet;
  6. Individuals should limit outdoor recreational activities to non-contact and avoid activities where they come in close contact with other people;
  7. Individuals should limit use of public transportation to when absolutely necessary and should limit potential exposure by spacing out at least six feet from other riders;
  8. Sick individuals should not leave their home unless to receive medical care and only after a telehealth visit to determine if leaving the home is in the best interest of their health;
  9. Young people should also practice social distancing and avoid contact with vulnerable populations;and
  10. Use precautionary sanitizer practices such as using isopropyl alcohol wipes.

03.20 Governor Cuomo Signs the 'New York State on PAUSE' Executive Order:

==STATE AND FEDERAL RESOURCES

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Coronavirus Site

New York State Department of Health Coronavirus Site

World Health Organization Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public

Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases

CDC Factsheets (available in Spanish)

03.27.20 From Governor Cuomo:

03.20 Governor Cuomo announced:

03.19 Governor Cuomo announced: Governor Cuomo Signs Executive Order Mandating Businesses That Require In-Office Personnel to Decrease In-Office Workforce by 75 Percent

03.18 Governor Cuomo announced: All Indoor Portions of Retail Shopping Malls, Amusement Parks & Bowling Alleys closed

03.16 Governor Cuomo announced:

03.20 6:30pm Delgado Telephone Town Hall

Congressman Delgado’s Coronavirus page

Congressman Delgado’s office is sending updates with important information and resources to address the #Coronavirus pandemic and keep our communities healthy. Sign up here: https://delgado.house.gov/contact/newsletter-subscribe 

IRS deadline moved to July 15

via Senator Jen Metzger

"To help navigate the COVID-19 public health emergency, my staff and I are assembling a resource guide that will be updated CONTINUOUSLY as we receive new information.

➡️ bit.ly/SD42-COVID19-GUIDE ⬅️ This guide covers a range of topics, including prevention and closure updates, utility bill payments and loan deferment, food safety, healthcare, housing and renter updates, state agency resources, and much more. Please feel free to share it with family and friends. Read, share, and don’t hesitate to contact my office at (845) 344-3311 or metzger@nysenate.gov if you have questions or tips. We’re all in this together."

==ULSTER COUNTY

MAIN COVID-19 PAGE https://ulstercountyny.gov/coronavirus

Virtual town halls with County Executive Pat Ryan

Thursday 04.09 Live Facebook Town Hall with Pat Ryan and NYS Senator Jen Metzger

04.08 with Kingston City School District Superintendent Paul Padalino 

04.01 Pat Ryan Virtual Town Hall

03.28 Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan has proclaimed this Saturday, March 28th, as "Shop Ulster Saturday," in a joint effort with the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce to support small businesses. Locally owned small businesses are the lifeblood of our Ulster County economy and it is especially important that we show them our support during the COVID-19 crisis. Even though their front doors are closed to shoppers, their virtual doors are wide open. Go online this Saturday and purchase a gift card from one of our many great local Ulster County stores, shops and restaurants and then use that card later in the year or give away as a gift for a birthday, anniversary or even during the holidays! https://www.facebook.com/events/2376851785948351/

Previous

The county is asking all Ulster County businesses to fill out this Estimated Disaster Economic Injury Worksheet ASAP, it is just preliminary but is an effort to get ahead of the ball for Small Business Loans. Please send completed forms to Lisa Berger at lbrg@co.ulster.ny.us  

==LOCAL GOV’T DIRECTIVES

Town and village have reduced staff as per Governor Cuomo’s directives

Town and village halls are closed to the public and we have moved to all virtual meetings

UC Project Resilience (Amanda LaValle at County; KT, Bianca T & TFall in NP) Ulster County has announced Project Resilience, a community fund and local food distribution effort to support residents impacted by COVID-19. The County has secured over $2 million in funding in 24 hours, and will utilize UCAT and partner with non-profits and municipalities to deliver meals to local distribution centers. This new initiative will help residents in need and simultaneously provide support to small businesses. Ulster County is partnering with United Way and many other area organizations and businesses to mobilize food and services. Press release for this initiative is available here. Contact projectresilience@co.ulster.ny.us

DONATE: https://www.gofundme.com/f/project-resilient

SIGN-UP: https://ulstercountyny.gov/projectresilience

ULSTER COUNTY BUSINESS COMMUNITY: SIGN-UP NOW for Restaurants and Food Service Provider (English)

COMUNIDAD EMPRESARIAL DEL CONDADO DE ULSTER: REGÍSTRESE AHORA para el Proveedor de Restaurantes y Servicios de Alimentos (Español)

==FOOD SUPPLIES: HOW TO GET FOOD IF YOU NEED IT

Ulster County Project Resilience provides meals 3x weekly to residents impacted by COVID-19

REQUEST for Food Assistance (English)

Solicitud de asistencia alimentaria (Español)

NPSCD FAMILIES WITH STUDENTS
This form is intended for those families in the New Paltz Central School District that are in need of food for all children (age 18 years and under) in their home during our school closure.

FAMILY OF NEW PALTZ If you are in need of a food package, call ahead for food pick up during their regular business hours. They are open Mon-Thurs 10:00am-5:00pm and on Friday from 10:00am-4:00pm. You can give their hotline a call at (845) 255-8801 should you have any questions.

ST. JOSEPH’S CHURCH FOOD PANTRY 34 South Chestnut St., New Paltz, Church hall Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 11:00 A.M.- 12:00 P.M.

NEW PALTZ COMMUNITY FOUNDATION, INC. has launched a project known as Help Your Neighbors 2020, which will provide meal vouchers at over 30 local participating restaurants and delis to community individuals and families facing sudden economic hardship because of COVID-19. To learn about this program and how to be referred for a voucher, please go to the Foundation’s website www.newpaltzcommunity.org. Family of New Paltz, one of the three voucher pickup spots, is asking that people call ahead (845-255-8801) before going to pick up their voucher. They are open Mon.-Thurs. 10:00am-5:00pm and on Friday from 10:00am-4:00pm. Initially, the project is limiting people to one voucher. As the project moves forward, depending on further donations and demand, additional vouchers may be obtainable. Anyone with questions should call Foundation President, Eileen Gulbrandsen Glenn at (845) 256-1945 or send her an email at sande2930@aol.com.

==UNEMPLOYMENT - PAID LEAVE  - PAYING BILLS

Central Hudson has suspended collections and disconnections

Via Ulster County Comptroller March Gallagher

NYS Department of Labor has changed the Unemployment Insurance Filing system based on the first letter of the applicants last name (alphabetical order). https://applications.labor.ny.gov/IndividualReg/

Here is the step-by-step process for filing;

A - F : Monday; G – N : Tuesday; O – Z : Wednesday

Missed your day : Thursday and Friday

Filing later in the week will not delay payments or affect the date of an individual’s claim, since all claims are effective on the Monday of the week in which they are filed.

DOL is also extending filing hours as follows: Monday through Thursday 8 am to 7:30 pm.;  Friday 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.; Saturday 7:30 am to 8:00 pm.

Via Senator Jen Metzger

“The Governor announced that the state will waive the 7-day waiting period to qualify for unemployment for individuals who have been laid off for COVID-19 related reasons.” (03.15)

“The Governor announced that the state will provide two full weeks of paid leave for all state employees who are subject to a mandatory or precautionary order of quarantine as a result of Novel Coronavirus. The State Legislature will take action soon on legislation to enable an emergency paid-leave program.” (03.12)

Via Governor Andrew Cuomo (03.17) Paid Sick Leave Agreement

New York State has placed a moratorium on housing evictions indefinitely. If you’re having trouble with a landlord during the COVID-19 outbreak, you can contact Legal Services of the Hudson Valley by calling (877) 574-8529 (Monday to Thursday, 8 AM - 6 PM, Friday 8 AM - 4 PM), or visiting them on the web at https://lshv.org/request-legal-assistance-now/

==FOOD SUPPLIES-DONATE $

COUNTY: DONATE to Project Resilience via United Way of Ulster County

Funds raised here will be used to purchase meals from local businesses and not-for-profit organizations, helping to keep dollars circulating in our food economy while we ensure that everyone is fed, as well as for other support. We are aiming to raise $5 million dollars. That may sound like a lot, but it’s roughly the cost of a week’s groceries for everyone in the county. Please contribute to help your neighbors - any amount, small or large, will be a huge help.

LOCAL NEW PALTZ FOOD DONATION

The NPMS PTA firmly supports the closure of our schools during this time. However, we also recognize the hardship this may cause for families in our community. With that in mind, we are helping to collect monetary donations to provide families with needed food household items https://my.cheddarup.com/c/food-assisitance-help

==NEW PALTZ VOLUNTEER SIGN UPS

(Bianca Tanis & Aimee Hemminger)

Volunteer sign up help with child care, food donation and distribution  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040848acad2aa2fb6-covid19

03.18.20 am count ~141 volunteers

==NYS HOW TO GET INVOLVED
Via Senator Jen Metzger the New York State Department of Health has launched a “Get Involved” landing page on their website, which can be accessed HERE

==OUTREACH TO BUSINESSES

 (KT Tobin, Alex Wojcik, Rachel Labare)

We have a ~130 email list we have been using to communicate to businesses

Email ktobin@villageofnewpaltz.org to be added to our business email list

03.18 We asked businesses to what extent had COVID-19 already impacted the financial health of their business or organization and preliminary results showed that a majority, 54 percent of our businesses have already experienced high impacts, 30 percent answered that there have been medium impacts, 11 percent said low impacts, and 5 percent reported no impacts to date. For food businesses, a larger majority, 63 percent, have already experienced high impacts, 16 percent answered that there have been medium impacts, 21 percent said low impacts so far, and none reported no impacts to date.

Some local business owners have created a much prettier and user-friendly We Are Still Open Hudson Valley website, so we are retiring  https://bit.ly/NP-Businesses.

Check out https://werestillopenhv.com/ and encourage businesses to enter their current information here: https://werestillopenhv.com/join/

Bill Murray and PD delivered “do not enter if you have symptoms” signage to businesses. Please contact us if you still need.

03.17 Businesses were asked to “Please make sure that you are under 50% capacity, that there is six feet distance between people at all times, that there is no unnecessary touching of people or things, and when that can absolutely not be avoided, washing and disinfecting hands must be done before and after touching anyone or anything. Please be sure that if your business utilizes them, this also means any styluses or payment keypads at the register. Also, if you are a business that is live streaming services in any way (e.g. fitness or yoga classes), please only include people who are absolutely necessary to be on site as part of this streaming, and that proper social distancing practices are followed.”

SBA has low interest rates for loans for small businesses as well as a paycheck protection program, contact county department of economic development for assistance.

SBA - Disaster Loan Assistance https://covid19relief.sba.gov/#/

Paycheck Protection Loans

Ulster County Webinar on Covid-19 SBA Business Financial Relief

Via Comptroller March Gallagher ATTENTION SMALL BUSINESSES & NONPROFITS: These Paycheck Protection Program loans are FORGIVABLE and turn into grants if you stay within the requirements. You must be under 500 employees, you can borrow 2.5x average monthly payroll costs (including taxes, health insurance and retirement costs) and in addition to payroll loan forgiveness can include mortgage interest, utilities and rent. There is not yet application guidance but it looks like it will be through SBA lenders (i.e., your bank).

The county is asking all Ulster County businesses fill out this Estimated Disaster Economic Injury Worksheet ASAP, it is just preliminary but is an effort to get ahead of the ball for Small Business Loans. Please send completed forms to Lisa Berger at lbrg@co.ulster.ny.us  

RULES RE ALCOHOL SALES

Click here for the New York State Liquor Authority Guidance on Restrictions for Licensees and To-Go & Delivery Sales in Response to COVID-19 Outbreak.

==SCHOOL DISTRICT

 (Dr. Josefsburg, Bianca Tanis)

04.02 New Paltz Central School District Resources page

03.30 Update from the New Paltz Central School District 

03.27 NPCSD Letter to parents about remote learning from the principals

3/20 Message to parents “Per the Governor’s most recent Executive Order, our schools will remain closed through April 1st.  The District recently designated March 23rd - 27th as “Spring Break.” Overarching these official acts is the expectation that school closures will be extended.”

3/17 Message to parents about remote learning  while the schools are closed

3/18 Message about budget including how residents can participate in budget discussion in social distant ways

STUDENTS IN NEED OF FOOD This form is intended for those families that are in need of food for all children (Age 18 years and under) in their home during our school closure.

STATE TESTS SUSPENDED The administrations of the 2020 elementary- and intermediate-level State assessments have been suspended for the remainder of this school year.

=see SCHOOL DISTRICT website for more info about Free and Reduced Distribution or anything else school-related

 =Another excellent resource on Facebook, follow New Paltz School Talk

==The New Paltz Youth Program announced that they will be doing online tutoring, contact Jim Tinger at 845.255.5140 or newpaltzYP@gmail.com

Maya Gold Foundation, Tools and Teaching for Trying Times

This four-week program is an offering to Hudson Valley teens designed to build resiliency, coping skills, and inner peace. Each class will include guided meditations, story-telling, teachings on the science of the mind, reflection exercises, and practical tools to take with you, followed by a Q&A session. Teens sign up for either the Tuesday or Thursday option. The series is free. Registration on the foundation's website is required, as space is limited.

==LANDLORD-TENANT ISSUES

(Alex Wojcik - AWojcik@villageofnewpaltz.org )

==OUTREACH TO SENIORS

The County Office of the Aging has been making phone calls to elderly households across the county

New Paltz Neighbor to Neighbor  (William Murray)

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the residents of the New Paltz region have come together to offer support to our seniors in this time of need. The Neighbor to Neighbor Program pairs our senior residents and those in need with caring volunteers for regular phone calls aimed at reducing social isolation and providing comfort and connection. Find on Facebook or online.  

==SUBSTANCE ABUSE-ONLINE 12 STEP

We have a robust recovery community in New Paltz and local AA groups are having virtual online meetings, please contact ktobin@villageofnewpaltz.org and awojcik@villageofnewpaltz.org  for more information.

If you or someone you know needs help addressing a substance use and/or mental health issue, you can contact the Access Virtual Urgent Care hotline at 1-888-750-2266, and choose option 2. This service is offered by Access: Supports For Living and provides Hudson Valley residents with 24/7 access to therapists and peer support. Learn more at https://accesssupports.org/

==RELIGIOUS SERVICES

(Anton Stewart)

The New Paltz Public Access committee is currently working with religious and spiritual leaders in the community in order to offer services in social distant streaming ways.

==STAYING CONNECTED-MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

New York State COVID-19 Emotional Support Hotline 1-844-863-9314 for mental health counseling

03.25 SUNY institute offers COVID-19 training for leaders, coping tips for citizens

"For the rank and file, the Institute for Disaster Mental Health has published a handy list of Tips for Community Members, subtitled COVID-19: Managing Stress in this Anxious Time. Here’s the summary section:

* Do what you can to take charge of your anxiety by breaking your concerns down into manageable chunks.

* Change what you can, and work on strategies for accepting and coping with what you can’t.

* Limit your media exposure so you’re not dwelling on the situation.

* Stay connected, through whatever means are available, to the people that are important to you.

* Above all, remember what stress management strategies work for you, and actually use them regularly to get through this challenging outbreak."

03.25 Stay connected, from Mayor Tim Rogers mayor@villageofnewpaltz.org

-----------

Village Hall remains open with a reduced staff handling calls and essential tasks per Governor Cuomo's PAUSE order. We have been closed to in-person public visits to Village Hall since 3/13/20.

We know it is important for the public to feel connected during this difficult time, so here are three things to help:

1) Our staff is fielding calls from residents to help with perfunctory questions and we are chatting with folks longer than usual. Our community needs to stay in touch with each other while we practice social distancing and manage this difficult time. We really appreciate that our staff knows that this extra responsibility is part of their job right now. Do not hesitate to call us here at Village Hall: 845.255.0130. Direct to the Mayor's office: 845.255.1413. You can also reach us via email at assistant@villageofnewpaltz.org.

2) It is important to check in with older community members, individuals with special needs, or just about anyone, and that’s why we have created the New Paltz Neighbor to Neighbor program. We are seeking volunteers to help organize and participate in this outreach. Phone calls to neighbors are appreciated and reassuring. If you or someone you know is interested in getting involved with Neighbor to Neighbor, or you know someone in need, please contact Trustee William Murray at wmurray@villageofnewpaltz.org.

3) We have reached out to Family of Woodstock and Family of New Paltz. For years they have offered a hotline to assist people with various challenges and explain the numerous ways Family's support services can help with the needs of individuals and families. No questions should feel trivial -- their staff have been trained to be excellent listeners. Call 845.255.8801 to reach the Family of New Paltz hotline during business hours (Mon-Thurs 10:00am-5:00pm and on Friday from 10:00am-4:00pm), and when the New Paltz office is closed the calls are automatically rolled over to their 24/7 hotline in Woodstock (to call Woodstock directly they can be reached at 845.679.2485).

New R2R Signage:

Nobody Leaves Mid-Hudson has launched a collective effort to call thousands of community members to check in on them during the crisis, connect them to resources, and ensure they fill out the census. You can learn how to make calls & join us here! bit.ly/callyourneighbor

New Paltz Public Access TV Committee ISO community programming for Channel 23 & streaming. >> https://bit.ly/NP-PATV-Submit << Please check out the link and sign the content submission via that link, and then submit your show! Programming may be submitted via YouTube or Vimeo URL, Dropbox (or any other file service that allows downloads), or you can send your file directly to NP Public Access at: submissions@npztv.org

==CANCELLATIONS-CLOSINGS

Due to the evolving Covid-19 health crisis, the Village of New Paltz is postponing this year’s Spring Pick Up of both brush and household material until further notice. Once a new date is determined, the Village will notify residents via the newspaper, on the Village website and social media. Please email any questions to the DPW at dpw@villageofnewpaltz.org.

Ulster Publishing suspends print publication

Mohonk Preserve open to the public

As of May 2020, Mohonk Preserve lands are open to the public

www.mohonkpreserve.org/visit regarding any changes

Based on Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order No. 202.1: Continuing Temporary Suspension and Modification of Laws Relating to the Disaster Emergency, Village and Town of New Paltz staff are working reduced hours and remotely. Calls and emails are being monitored remotely and your messages will be addressed as soon as possible. To contact the Village of New Paltz, please email clerk@villageofnewpaltz.org if you are unable to get through via phone at 845.255.0130. To contact the Town of New Paltz, please email assistant@townofnewpaltz.org if you are unable to get through via phone at 845.255-0604.

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT SUNY NEW PALTZ PLEASE CHECK THE COLLEGE WEBSITE DIRECTLY. LINK HERE TO SUNY NEW PALTZ COVID-19 PAGE. STUDENTS NEED TO REGULARLY CHECK THEIR CAMPUS EMAIL.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AT

NEW PALTZ EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

PLEASE EMAIL ktobin@villageofnewpaltz.org and awojcik@villageofnewpaltz.org

with questions-comments about these updates

Share this document widely: >>bit.ly/NewPaltz-COVID19<< 

###

Table of Contents / Index:

The Latest        2

==STATE AND FEDERAL RESOURCES        35

==ULSTER COUNTY        37

==LOCAL GOV’T DIRECTIVES        38

==FOOD SUPPLIES: HOW TO GET FOOD IF YOU NEED IT        38

==UNEMPLOYMENT - PAID LEAVE  - PAYING BILLS        39

==NEW PALTZ VOLUNTEER SIGN UPS        40

==SCHOOL DISTRICT        42

==LANDLORD-TENANT ISSUES        43

==OUTREACH TO SENIORS        44

==SUBSTANCE ABUSE-ONLINE 12 STEP        44

==RELIGIOUS SERVICES        44

==STAYING CONNECTED-MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES        44

==CANCELLATIONS-CLOSINGS        47