Town of New Castle Town Board Meeting 5/12/26

The Town of New Castle Town Board held a meeting on May 12, 2026, focusing extensively on proposed legislation regarding battery energy storage systems (BESS). The board discussed the risks and benefits of allowing tier one BESS installations while prohibiting larger tier two and three systems due to safety and environmental concerns, particularly fire hazards and toxic emissions. The board expressed support for the legislation as written, emphasizing caution given the town's predominantly residential character and volunteer fire department limitations. Additionally, the board reviewed amendments to the multi-family residential Chappaqua zoning code to clarify inconsistencies and incentivize green building practices, with plans to refer the draft law to the county and planning board for further comment. Several procurement and contract matters were addressed, including authorization to purchase police vehicle computers from Advanced Electronic Design for $13,627, extension of water maintenance materials contract with Shercorp, HVAC contract extension at the Millwood Water Treatment Plant with Carrier and Walsh for $10,184 annually, and use of CCSD painting services bid for town painting projects totaling approximately $50,000. The board also approved personnel actions such as hiring and promotions within the police and public works departments. A revision to the town ethics code was discussed and adopted, removing overly restrictive provisions related to political party committee membership for town officials. Public hearings continued on a special permit application for 50 North Greeley Avenue, with ongoing community input and environmental considerations. The meeting concluded with approval of claims totaling $386,809.84 and adjournment.