Dutchess County Government

Starting tomorrow in Stanford, our Planning Department is launching a new educational outreach series at local libraries. These sessions will help residents learn about municipal Conservation Advisory Councils and Climate Smart Communities committees, and the important role they play in protecting our environment. Join us to discover the work these local groups do — and learn how you can get involved!

Heads up, Hyde Park motorists! Paving work is scheduled along Saint Andrews Road (CR-40A) this week. Expect lane closures, slower traffic, and possible delays and please plan extra travel time and use caution when driving through the work zone!

⚠️Spots are filling up quickly, but there are still scholarship opportunities available for children entering first through fifth grade. Apply today!⚠️

There's still time to give your child a summer camp filled with fun, friendship, and outdoor adventure! Our Division of Youth Services is offering full summer camp scholarships for income-eligible families to attend Camp Nooteeming in Pleasant Valley, with awards available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Children ages 3½ to 15 can enjoy swimming, hiking, arts and crafts, games, and more during one of three two-week weekday sessions running from June 29th through August 7th. Get all the details and apply: www.dutchessny.gov/Departments/County-Executive/Dutchess-County-Opens-Applications-for-Free-Summer-Camp-at-Camp-Nooteeming.htm

Dutchess County's new Live Fire Training Building was officially opened today and we honored Ray Nichols, past Chief of Roosevelt Fire Department and long-serving Dutchess County Deputy Fire Coordinator with a special dedication of the fire training grounds in appreciation for all he has done to advance fire training in Dutchess County. Read more: https://www.dutchessny.gov/Departments/County-Executive/County-Celebrates-New-Live-Fire-Training-Building.htm

At the Dutchess County Office for the Aging (OFA), connection is at the heart of everything we do—connecting older adults with the resources they need, and just as importantly, creating personal connections that lead to friendship and fun!

Those connections were on full display last week, when the olders adults who attend the Poughkeepsie Friendship Center organized a surprise party for Cindy, their site manager who means so much to them. 🩷 County Executive Sue Serino joined the celebration to thank Cindy for the warmth, energy, and dedication she brings to the community every day.

Curious about what’s happening at our eight OFA Friendship Centers? Visit dutchessny.gov/friendshipcenters and discover the programs, friendships, and fun waiting for you

June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month, a reminder that abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation of older adults often go unnoticed. Our Department of Community and Family Services (DCFS) encourages everyone to learn the warning signs and speak up if they believe a vulnerable adult may be at risk and help connect them with the support and protection they need.

If you suspect abuse, neglect, or exploitation, contact DCFS' Adult Protective Services (APS) at 845-486-3300, email [email protected], or call 911 in an emergency. Learn more about APS' ongoing efforts: www.dutchessny.gov/Departments/Community-Family-Services/Adult-Protective-Services.htm

The Juneteenth holiday commemorates the last enslaved African Americans in Texas learning they were free on June 19, 1865. In recognition of this powerful turning point in our nation’s journey toward equality, Dutchess County Government offices are closed and there is no Public Transit service today. Transit service will resume tomorrow & County offices will reopen on Monday. Our friends at Destination Dutchess have put together a list of historically significant locations across the county for you to visit, as well as upcoming events celebrating African American culture and heritage. https://destinationdutchess.com/spotlights/juneteenth-in-dutchess-a-time-to-rejoice-and-reflect

County Executive Sue Serino and our Office of Veterans Affairs had the privilege of honoring U.S. Navy Signalman 3rd Class Philip A. Bauer Sr., a Pawling resident remembered for his kindness and willingness to to help anyone in need, at our latest "Honor-A-Veteran" ceremony.

Philip answered the call to serve at just 17 years old during WWII. After his honorable discharge, he continued giving back to his community, leaving a legacy that will be felt for generations to come. Read more about Signalman Bauer at: https://www.dutchessny.gov/Departments/County-Executive/Pawling-Navy-Veteran-Commemorated-June-2026.htm

If you know a veteran who has passed and want to honor their legacy, submit a nomination form at dutchessny.gov/honoraveteran.

Our Dutchess County Office for the Aging OFA) had a wonderful time bringing its Summer Picnic Series to Hyde Park today! Hundreds of older adults came out to enjoy a free, tasty lunch, live entertainment, and plenty of time to catch up with friends and make new connections.

The fun continues next Wednesday at beautiful Bowdoin Park, where Town of Poughkeepsie residents are invited to join us for their community picnic. You can find the OFA's full 2026 Summer Picnic Series schedule at dutchessny.gov/ofapicnics.