Quarterly Town of Marlborough Update: Spring 2025

Quarterly Town of Marlborough Update (Spring 2025)

Sewer System Upgrades: The Town approved a $3.1 million project to upgrade the Hamlet of Marlborough’s wastewater treatment facility. Funding includes $1.6 million from the American Rescue Plan, $457,000 from developers, $500,000 in county grants, and a $1 million bond. Residents should note that developer payments (Dock Road/Orchards on Hudson and Bayside) are tied to approvals and occupancy certificates, meaning funding arrives in phases.
Highway Department Project: Renovations were completed this spring with $450,000 in state grants. Blacktopping of town roads is underway.
New Projects in Planning: Developers are exploring a medical facility and 55+ senior housing near Town Hall. The board is also seeking land for municipal parking in Marlboro hamlet.

Someplace Upstate LLC and Related Properties: The Town took enforcement action against owners and tenants of properties on Mount Rose Road and James Street for zoning and state law violations, despite a March settlement agreement. The Town hired Van DeWater & Van DeWater, LLP, at $295/hour, to pursue the case. A state judge later issued an injunction against Someplace Upstate but allowed one wedding to go forward so a couple’s plans could proceed.
Orchards on the Hudson Development: The Conservation Advisory Committee (CAC) has repeatedly raised concerns about traffic, drainage, light pollution, and lack of connectivity. They are urging a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Town officials emphasize developers are cooperating with NYSDOT on traffic and will fund turning lanes and parking changes.

Parks & Recreation:
- New pickleball courts are planned at Cluett Schantz Park.
- An Eagle Scout project proposes 10 tent platforms at the same park, completion expected in 2026.
- Donations continue to support park improvements, including an $8,000 gift from a former Town Justice.
Events: Arbor Day celebrations featured apple-themed art and environmental education. Concerts at Cluett Schantz are scheduled for July with fireworks on August 1. The Memorial Day Parade was expanded with nearly 40 organizations participating.

Noise Complaints – The Garage Bar & Grill: Multiple residents raised ongoing concerns about live band noise disrupting neighborhoods. Police enforcement of the 65-decibel ordinance has been inconsistent, and residents expressed frustration about lack of clear action. Meetings were held with business owners, who agreed to limit performances and keep music indoors with doors and windows closed.
Police Staffing: The Town appointed a new part-time officer in April and a full-time officer in June.

Solar Projects:
- The Town approved two Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements: one for Highland 201 Solar on Milton Turnpike (4.1 MW, 15 years), and another for ELP Marlborough Solar on Bingham Road (5 MW, 15 years). These agreements lock in predictable annual payments instead of fluctuating property taxes.
USGS Gauging Station: A river monitoring system will be reinstalled at Milton Landing, with live-streaming sensors tracking Hudson River flow, turbidity, and height.

Ethics Board Law: A March public hearing approved updates to the Board of Ethics law, recommended by the board’s chairman.
New Assessor: The Town will be hiring a new full-time assessor due to a retirement.
FOIL Policy: A new policy requires the Town to notify employees when their disciplinary records are released under FOIL requests.

Key Issues Requiring Public Attention

Someplace Upstate litigation – costly ongoing court case
Orchards on the Hudson – unresolved traffic and environmental concerns; CAC pushing for full EIS.
Noise at The Garage – repeated resident complaints highlight challenges in enforcing noise ordinances.
Bonded sewer project – large financial commitment with long-term implications for taxpayers in the Marlborough Sewer District.