Croton’s village government took steps to shape its financial future and staff its volunteer boards during a low-key work session on Wednesday night, January 14.
The Board of Trustees unanimously approved a slate of eight community volunteers to serve on key advisory bodies. The 5-0 vote filled seats on the Conservation Advisory Council, Arts & Humanities Advisory Council, Bicycle-Pedestrian Committee, Police Advisory Committee, and the Advisory Board for the Visual Environment. Notably, Eva Thaddeus was appointed to a one-year term as Chair of the Conservation Advisory Council, alongside a separate term running through December 2027. Manuel Coronel Jr. was appointed to the Police Advisory Committee through December 2026, while James Nadeau and Dan Ozaruk joined the Bicycle-Pedestrian Committee to help guide local infrastructure improvements.
Beyond the routine appointments, the board laid the groundwork for significant policy decisions in the coming months. Officials reviewed a draft budget priorities survey designed to capture resident input ahead of the upcoming fiscal year budget process.
Financial health was also on the agenda, with the board receiving a presentation on the village’s bond rating from financial advisor Beth Ferguson. Maintaining a strong bond rating is crucial for Croton, as it directly impacts the interest rates the village pays on borrowed money for large capital projects.
In a move toward increased financial oversight, trustees discussed a proposed local law that would formally create a local office of the Village Auditor. No vote was taken on the proposal, but the discussion signals the board's interest in bolstering municipal financial transparency.
The board also debriefed on a recent site visit to the Department of Public Works (DPW) Garage alongside Superintendent of Public Works Frank Balbi, and reviewed new recommendations from the Recreation Advisory Committee.
Residents looking to have a say in how the village allocates its funds should keep an eye out for the upcoming budget priorities survey, which is expected to be released for public participation in the coming weeks. The next Board of Trustees meeting will be held at the Stanley H. Kellerhouse Municipal Building.