A Message From Mayor Steve Noble

Dear Friends,

We are keeping updated on Coronavirus and doing our best to share this information widely. What you need to know:

* We have 40 confirmed cases in Kingston as of Tuesday, and a total of four deaths in Ulster County.

* We have had an overwhelming response for the Kingston Emergency Food Hotline. So much, in fact, that we need more healthy volunteers who are willing to deliver meals to those in need. Volunteers can register here: COVID-19 Volunteer Response Team Interest

* If you would like to donate to help the Emergency Food Hotline continue to provide these meals, please consider giving to the YMCA of Kingston, People’s Place or Family of Woodstock. We appreciate any contribution!

* The United Way has a list of all the local grocery stores with special shopping hours for seniors: https://www.ulsterunitedway.org/senior-shopping-hours/

* In order to deter gatherings, tennis courts and pickleball courts in Kingston parks are now closed.

* We are asking everyone to abide by the guidelines of staying home if you are sick, distancing yourself from others even if you are well, and washing hands and surfaces often.

For the sake of yourself and your community, stay safe and take good care.

* We would also love to hear from folks in the community who witness small (or large!) acts of kindness. Email the Mayor’s office with your story.

As always, contact the County’s COVID-19 hotline with questions: 845-443-8888.

-Steve

Mayor Asks NYS for Tax Deadline Extension

Mayor Noble has contacted Governor Andrew Cuomo to request a property tax deadline extension without penalty for current taxpayers in the City of Kingston.

The 2020 property tax installment for non-escrowed, second half payments is due April 30. However, Mayor Noble has requested an extension of the current tax installment deadline for the City of Kingston homeowners to be extended without interest or penalty until May 21, 2020. In order to offer this 21-day extension to Kingston residents, Governor Cuomo must issue an Executive Order pursuant to Real Property Tax Law Section 925-a (2), authorizing the City of Kingston to extend the payment period.

“During these challenging and unprecedented times, I am looking for any and all measures that will alleviate the fear and anxiety of members of our community and to help provide some relief,” said Mayor Noble. “My office has received calls from constituents expressing concerns about their inability to pay their taxes on time as a result of the hardships from the COVID-19 pandemic. It is my duty as Mayor to help in any way I can, and I urge the Governor to grant us this extension.”

Each fiscal year, the City of Kingston taxes are due in two equal installments. The first installment is due within 45 days after tax levy has been set by resolution of the Common Council, which this year was February 14, 2020. The second installment is then due within 120 days after the tax levy has been set, which this year is April 30, 2020.