Croton's Board of Trustees took a cautious approach to the upcoming fiscal year at their January 21 meeting, scheduling a public hearing on a potential property tax cap override while emphasizing no decision has been made to actually exceed the limit. The state's property tax cap for villages operating on a June-to-May fiscal year has been set at 2.63% for the coming year. Resolution #5-2026, passed 3-0, sets a public hearing for February 4 at 7:00 PM in the Stanley Kellerhouse Municipal Building to consider Local Law Introductory No. 1 of 2026. Village officials stressed the move is a procedural safeguard required by state law — the enabling legislation must be in place before an override can be invoked, should unforeseen financial circumstances arise. Also on the February 4 docket is a hearing on Local Law Introductory No. 2 of 2026, which would create a new Chapter 9 of the Village Code establishing the office of Village Auditor. The position, discussed at a January 14 work session, would take over claims auditing duties currently performed by the Board of Trustees under Village Law §5-524. In other business, the board unanimously renewed Cablevision of Wappingers Falls' franchise agreement for another ten years. Village Manager Bryan Healy noted the renewal includes "PEG Grant" funds — fifty cents per subscriber per quarter — earmarked for upgrading meeting broadcast equipment and technology at Village Hall. An audit by special counsel confirmed all past franchise fees were properly paid. Healy also clarified that the agreement covers only cable television, not internet or phone service, and that Mayor Pugh continues to push for FIOS availability in Croton. The board approved two budget transfers from contingency funds: $6,600 to cover contractually required police uniform allowances, and $4,410 for an AED at Black Rock Park recommended by the Recreation Advisory Committee. Residents should note that the board voted to waive snow parking summonses issued during last Saturday's surprise storm — a one-time exception. Going forward, Village Manager Healy reminded residents that parking is prohibited on all village streets when snowfall reaches two inches, and sidewalks must be cleared within 12 hours of a storm's end. Free parking during snow events is available at the Municipal Building, Asbury Methodist, Merwin Oak, and South Harmon lots, but vehicles must be moved within 12 hours after snow ends. Residents with limited off-street parking can apply for seasonal hardship permits, though certain streets — including both sides of Croton Point Avenue, Benedict Blvd., and Maple Street — remain off-limits even with a permit.