| Community Issues As Mayor of this Great City, we will focus on continuing our successes, increasing business and promote cultural tourism in Kingston and the Hudson Valley, by moving forward with enthusiasm, and using late Mayor T.R. Gallo's vision as our guide. I am pleased to announce the inter-municipal agreement between the City of Kingston and the Town of Ulster for the bulk sale of City water. This agreement will allow the Town of Ulster to distribute water to areas where adequate supplies do not exist and to address modern sanitary standards. This will maximize the revenue from one of our greatest assets, our water supply. This agreement demonstrates how positive things can happen when we work together for the good of our constituencies. I believe that the cooperation with our neighboring towns, villages & the County is essential to the future of our community. The gateway to Kingston's Uptown Historic District invites people into our beautiful city. This gateway has taken a dramatic step forward. The New York State Comptroller cleared the way for a significant infrastructure improvement to this area by authorizing a sewer district to be built for the Washington Ave. Extension. This means that the property values will increase, and there will be more jobs. It also allows for needed improvements to our wastewater treatment plant. The vision we once had is here today. We can already see exciting changes. The Noah Hotel is now a reality and that long awaited ground breaking will take place in the Spring 2004. This will contribute to a dramatic expansion of our waterfront. In addition, there are two other multi unit Hudson Riverfront housing developments proposed, that include opportunities for restaurants, shops and public access which will continue to attract tourists and provide amenities for local residents. The Broadway West Strand area will continue to grow as a place for all of us to be proud of. The Kingston Business Park, located off of Delaware Ave., will begin to see its full potential realized in 2004. It is our goal to prepare a second site and entice new ventures to a business friendly community. The Kirkland Hotel is an asset to our Uptown Community. This City has partnered with Rural Ulster Preservation Company for the development of this project. The project is moving forward and the City is committed to make restoration of this beautiful historical building a reality. Family of Woodstock's Darmstadt shelter in Midtown has our full support and we continue to work closely with this organization. The facility is operational and successfully serving residents with special needs. The City of Kingston is known as a center for the Arts. Each month there are many opportunities to experience both visual and performing arts. The area is fast becoming rich in talent and you should visit our Arts and Theaters page on the website to view all of the upcoming exhibits at local galleries Kingston's cultural tourism puts us on the map. As the first capital of New York State, Kingston is the place where New York States Constitution was adopted and where the State Senate first met. We welcome visitors to our historic Stockade District in Uptown, where the original Dutch settlers made their home. Our beautiful Rondout Waterfront was a major transportation and industry hub in the 19th century. It is now a place where boaters and outdoor enthusiasts find many unique restaurants and shops, and where the City hosts many special events to highlight our history and cultural character. This year I am proud to announce a new program event, "A Taste of Kingston Trolley Tour". Once a month you can be boarded a trolley for a terrific evening at three great restaurants for appetizers, entrée and dessert, all for the resonable and tasty price of $30.00. For more information and to reserve a spot for a dinner you won't soon forget, call (845) 331-3725. Our Parks and Recreation Department provides a wide array of activities for youth, adults and senior citizens. They maintain eight major parks, a Zoo, pool, beach, two neighborhood centers, tennis courts and softball fields, all open to the public. After school programs, with homework help are also available. For more information on how to participate in sports leagues or for information on other programs, call (845) 331-1682 or e-mail recreation@ci.kingston.ny.us . The Kingston Library located at 55 Franklin Street presents Super Saturdays 2004. Programs start at 10:30am, and is geared towards younger children. There are many different programs ranging from puppet shows to live animal demonstrations. To find the perfect one for the child in your life, check the Calendar of Events on the City of Kingston website. Kingston's historic past gives it a unique legacy and a responsibility for the future. By setting, pursing and completing economic goals and embracing our heritage, we continue to make Kingston a more attractive place to live, visit and do business. I am so proud to report to you that even with our rich history, diverse heritage and great legacy --- THIS IS A NEW KINGSTON! Sincerely, James M. Sottile
Mayor |