Village of Cambridge, NY
Clerk (518) 677-2622
Police (518) 677-3044
D.P.W. (518) 677-3252
Court (518) 677-8297
In Case of Emergency DIAL 911
WELCOME TO CAMBRIDGE
Nestled within the surrounding foothills of the Adirondacks and the Green Mountains, Cambridge is located in Southern Washington County. It takes but only one leisurely stroll around the Village of Cambridge to realize everything this small, yet strong, community has to offer. From its historic sites to its idyllic tree-lined streets, from its eclectic artistic community to its thriving small family-owned businesses, there is so much to discover and fall in love with. We hope you find out for yourself just what the Village of Cambridge has to offer. Welcome!
Laws, Forms and Documents
INFORMATION
MEETINGS
Village Meetings are held Monthly at 7:00PM
- Board of Trustees - 1st Wednesday
- Planning Board - 2nd Wednesday
- Zoning Board of Appeals - 4th Wednesday
Today 7:00 am - 9:00 amOPEN NOW
Monday8:00am - 12:00pm
Tuesday7:00am - 9:00am
Wednesday2:00pm - 6:00pm
Thursday8:00am - 12:00pm
Friday8:00am - 12:00pm
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed
FACEBOOK TIMELINE
This Fall, Let’s Feed The Pollinators That Feed Us
By Mayor James W. SweeneyA Simple Lesson with Big ImpactEvery so often, I attend a workshop that changes how I look at our daily surroundings here in Cambridge. The recent NYCOM webinar on Native Plants and Pollinators was one of those moments. It reminded me that the way we plant and maintain our yards, gardens, and public spaces connects directly to the health of our environment, our birds, and even our food supply. The lesson was simple but powerful: Every living thing starts somewhere, and most of it starts with native plants.The “Baby Food” ConnectionDuring the webinar, one image stuck with me. Jennifer Michelle, MPH, Sustainable Health Strategist, explained that birds, especially when raising their young, depend almost entirely on caterpillars to feed their chicks. But caterpillars can only survive on the native plants they evolved with.When we replace those native plants with imported ornamentals or endless grass lawns, we remove the “baby food” for our insects. No insects means no caterpillars. No caterpillars means fewer birds. And fewer birds means an ecosystem that starts to unravel right in our backyards.The good news is that this is one of the few environmental problems we can all help solve literally from the ground up. Every patch of native planting helps. Native Beauty, Local CharacterHere in Cambridge, we take pride in our historic character and our natural beauty. Our Zoning Law and Design Guidelines talk about maintaining that character through thoughtful design and landscaping. Adding native plants to our home gardens fits right into that vision.Native plants look natural here because they belong here. And also because they support the pollinators that sustain our crops, our trees, and our own quality of life.Why Fall MattersFall, as it turns out, is nature’s time to plant. Many native seeds such as milkweed, coneflower, black-eyed Susan, and others need to rest under the winter frost before they’ll germinate in spring. This natural cycle, called cold stratification, is how meadows renew themselves year after year. So for residents thinking about trying native plantings, autumn is a great time to prepare a patch, scatter a few seeds, or simply start learning about what will thrive in your yard next year.Four Easy Ways to StartShrink the lawn, just a little. Even converting a 3x3-foot corner to native flowers makes a difference.Leave the leaves. A thin layer of leaf litter helps overwintering insects survive and enriches the soil.Choose plants that feed pollinators. Look for milkweed, bee balm, asters, goldenrod, and native grasses. These plants are the “bread and butter” for native bees and butterflies.Plant what belongs here. Avoid cultivars bred only for showy flowers; they often lack the nectar or pollen pollinators need.This isn’t about turning every lawn into a wild meadow overnight. It’s about small, steady steps toward healthier habitats. Every garden, every verge, every front yard can play a role. Native plant gardens, when well-maintained and thoughtfully designed, are consistent with the Village of Cambridge Design Guidelines (2005, §2: Site Design) and the Zoning Law (Local Law No. 2 of 2015).Looking AheadAs a Village, we can also think ahead. Over time, we might identify a few public spots that could serve as demonstration gardens or “pollinator pockets”, visible examples of what native planting can look like. That will take planning and partnership, but it starts with awareness.So this fall, I invite you to look at your yard or garden with new eyes. Ask yourself what belongs here, what feeds life here, and what we can leave for the creatures that share this place with us.Cambridge has always been a community that values its sense of place. Caring for our native plants, and the pollinators that depend on them, is one way we honor that tradition.Let’s keep Cambridge beautiful, healthy, and buzzing with life.
Read MoreWrite a Comment
Read More
Safe Power, Safe Home: Lithium-Ion Best Practices for Families
From Phones to Power Tools: The Washington County Department of Public Safety Urges Residents to Know the Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries this Fire Prevention WeekThe theme for Fire Prevention Week™ (October 5–11, 2025) is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The Washington County Department of Public Safety is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)—the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW™) for more than 100 years—to promote this year’s FPW campaign, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” The campaign highlights how important it is to buy, charge, and recycle lithium-ion batteries safely. Most of the electronics we use in our homes every day—smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, headphones, and toys, to name just a few—are powered by lithium-ion batteries. In fact, most everything that’s rechargeable uses this type of battery. If not used correctly or if damaged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, start a fire, or even explode. To reduce these risks, look around your home—it’s important to know which devices are powered by them. “Lithium-ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere,” said Fire Coordinator Glenn Bristol. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign helps people understand the importance of using these batteries correctly to prevent fires in the home and to follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach.”Buy Only Listed ProductsWhen buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, take time to research it. Look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the packaging and product, which means it meets important safety standards.Many products sold online and in stores may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.Charge Devices SafelyAlways use the cords that came with the product to charge it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved.Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t charge it under a pillow, on a bed, or on a couch—this could cause a fire.Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.Recycle Batteries ResponsiblyDon’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could catch fire.Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery-recycling location is the best way to dispose of them. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.Fire Coordinator Glenn Bristol and the Washington County Department of Public Safety strongly encourage all residents to be aware of their devices, follow the Buy, Charge, and Recycle Safely approach, and support this year’s FPW theme, “Charge into Fire Safety™.”Working Smoke Detectors Save LivesThe Washington County Department of Public Safety is also a proud partner of the American Red Cross® and their Sound the Alarm Home Fire program. If you, or someone you know, is in need of smoke detectors, please email publicsafety@washingtoncountyny.gov or call (518) 747-7520 Ext. 6. To learn more or volunteer for the Sound the Alarm program, visit the Red Cross site at https://redcross.org/sound-the-alarm. Washington County is blessed to be served by great Fire Departments and the most dedicated volunteer personnel you’ll find anywhere—check in with your local Fire Department for the events they may be holding this Fire Prevention Week!###
Read MoreWrite a Comment
Read More
Fall For Cambridge 2025
This Saturday, October 4, 2025, the Village will host “Fall for Cambridge,” a day of family-friendly activities coordinated by local volunteers and businesses across our downtown. Events run throughout the day; times and participating locations vary. What to expect Seasonal activities, live demonstrations, and fall photo spots across multiple Main Street locations Family-friendly options and school-based activities Walkable routes; public parking available near downtown; please watch for pedestrian crossings More information For an up-to-date list of participating locations and times, visit the event’s public social media page(s) or check with your favorite local spots day-of.Notes on transparency This event was organized by community volunteers. One organizer, Cassie Weisberg, also serves as a Village Trustee. The Village is sharing this notice as a public service. Inclusion does not constitute endorsement, and no Village funds were used to organize private activities.
Read MoreWrite a Comment
Read More
Commemorative Tree Program: A Living Tribute
On August 6, 2025, the Village Board adopted a Commemorative Tree Donation Policy to help residents, families, and local groups honor people and milestones with a living tribute on village land.What the program offersA commemorative tree is a simple, meaningful way to celebrate an individual, a family event, or a community moment while strengthening our tree canopy and village character. Trees are planted only on Village-owned property or within public rights-of-way (think library grounds, municipal lawns, and approved planting strips along village streets). We do not plant or maintain trees on private property.How it works (the short version)Donation amount: $500 per tree, covering purchase, planting, and initial care.Where and when we plant: Sites are selected on Village property/ROW and plantings typically occur in spring and fall.Who decides species & location: Our Tree Committee, in consultation with the Superintendent of Public Works, matches species to site conditions for long-term health and safety.Plaque & recognition: Each tree may include a low-profile ground plaque (within character limits), and donors may also be listed on our website. Opt-out is available if you prefer privacy.Ownership & care: Commemorative trees are Village property. We’ll maintain them at our discretion; as living things, their lifespan isn’t guaranteed, and we may remove or replace as necessary.How to applyApplications are reviewed on a rolling basis by the Tree Committee with Village staff, with final approvals by the Village. Approval depends on site availability, species suitability, and planting timelines.Submit the Commemorative Tree Application to the Clerk’s Office by any of the following:Email: clerk@cambridgeny.govIn person: 56 North Park Street during office hoursU.S. Mail: Village Clerk, Village of Cambridge, 56 North Park Street, Cambridge, NY 12816If you email your application, please note: payment must be received within five (5) business days to hold your planting slot.A few practical notesTransparency: Applications and donation records may be subject to public disclosure under NYS Freedom of Information Law (FOIL).Tax status: Donations under this program are not tax-deductible charitable contributions.Site suggestions welcome: You can propose a location on your application; final siting is determined by the Tree Committee and DPW to ensure the right tree in the right place.Ready to get started?Have questions or need accommodations? Contact the Village Clerk at (518) 677-2622 or clerk@cambridgeny.gov.Plant a memory. Grow our canopy. Leave something good for the next generation.
Read MoreWrite a Comment
Read MoreFrequently Asked Questions
REGISTRAR OF VITAL RECORDS
The Village Clerk also performs the role of Registrar of Vital Records for the Village. The Registrar is responsible for issuing birth and death certificates in the Village. Our Registrar maintains the records of all births and deaths recorded at Mary McClellan Hospital.
Get Copies Here
CAMBRIDGE POLICE
Cambridge's Police Department, which through its relationship with our sister village, Greenwich, is half of the Cambridge-Greenwich Police Department. This pairing is a shared services agreement between our municipalities which allows us to maximize the use of resources and enhance the capabilities of both departments. We are proud of this relationship, and look forward to continuing to protect and serve.
Visit The Police Department
YOUTH DEPARTMENT
The Youth Commission provides programs for school-aged youth throughout the area throughout the year. After School Registration. Contact the director Alyssa Rowland at youth@cambridgeny.gov
Visit The Youth Page
Visit NYS Unified Court System
JUSTICE COURT
The Village Court holds sessions on Mondays. On the fourth Monday of each month, Court is held at 3:00 PM when representatives from both the District Attorney's office and the Public Defender's office are present. All other Mondays, Court begins at 5:00 PM. If you have any questions, please contact the Court for further information.
Court Clerk - Lisa Austin-Cuddihy
Phone (518) 677-8297
Fax (518) 625-3140
VILLAGE OFFICIALS
TIMOTHY KAVANAUGH
Trustee
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS (DPW)
DPW performs street and sidewalk maintenance throughout the year. Services include snow and ice removal on Village streets and sidewalks, street paving and repair, sidewalk repair and replacement, maintenance of Village parks, street cleaning, Village building maintenance, lawn waste pick up in the Spring and Fall, pick up of holiday trees around the first of the year and a host of other services around the Village.
Contact Matt Toleman (518) 677-3252 or (518) 361-9734. mtoleman@cambridgeny.gov
Visit The DPW Page
VILLAGE STAFF
Lance Allen Wang
(518) 677-2622
clerk@cambridgeny.gov
Stephen Hallock
(518) 677-2622
treasurer@cambridgeny.gov
Robert Danko
(518) 677-3044
sgtdanko@cambridgeny.gov
Nash Alexander
(518) 677-2622
firechief@cambridgeny.gov
Matt Toleman
mtoleman@cambridgeny.gov
Hon. Carl Flint
Hon. Scott R. Lucey
Lisa Austin-Cuddihy
LCuddihy@nycourts.gov
Christina Becker
(518) 677-2443
William McCarty
assessor@cambridgeny.gov
William Reagan
zeo@cambridgeny.gov
Megan Albert
historian@cambridgeny.gov
Alyssa Rowland
youth@cambridgeny.gov
Visit The Firehouse Page
FIRE DEPARTMENT
The Cambridge Volunteer Fire Department provides continuous fire protection and rescue operations to the Village and surrounding area. The towns of Cambridge, Jackson, White Creek and Arlington contract with the Village for fire service protection. The Department maintains 5 pieces of fire apparatus, two engines and a fully equipped rescue vehicle. In addition to fire response, the Department provides vehicle extrication and other rescue services, and fire prevention. The Department is always looking for more volunteers. To learn more about volunteering, contact Chief Nash Alexander by email firechief@cambridgeny.gov
VILLAGE HISTORY
The Village of Cambridge was incorporated in 1866, combining the hamlets of Cambridge and North White Creek. About one-third of the Village is in the Town of Cambridge, and two-thirds in the town of White Creek.
The Village was a quiet rural community until 1855, when the Albany & Rutland Railroad connected it to Rutland VT, to the north and New York's Capital District to the South. The Jerome B. Rice Seed Co. developed by Civil War veteran Jerome B. Rice, Sr. was a major employer and at one time was the second-largest seed company in the nation. The Cambridge Fair held from the late 19th century until World War II, drew thousands annually on special excursion trains. The Washington County Fair in nearby Easton, one of the largest agricultural fairs in the northeast is its descendant. The village today is still home to a Victorian train hotel, The Cambridge Hotel, a Victorian era Opera House, Hubbard Hall, plus many other businesses housed in historic buildings. Agriculture continues to thrive in the area, including many dairy farms, organic meat and vegetable producers plus fiber and fruit growers.
Visit Our Historian's Page
CAMBRIDGE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Our Library is funded primarily by Village taxes. Additional revenue is obtained by a School District Proposition and money from the County and Towns. Our Library is chartered to serve a population of 1906. The Library has a special collection of Local History. The newspaper, The Washington County Post is on microfilm beginning with the date 1849.
12 West Main Street
Cambridge, NY 12816
(518) 677-2443
Contact Library Director, Christina Becker by email. cam-director@sals.edu or visit The Library's Website.
Visit The Library Page
TAX ASSESSMENT
The Village Assessor determines the value of each property in the village for the purpose of determining the tax amount for the property owner. The Assessor also maintains all records of the assessments and other appropriate documentation. More information on the role of the assessor and assessment in general can be found here... Contact William McCarty by e-mail assessor@cambridgeny.gov or call 677-2622.
WATER
The Cambridge Water system is run by a private company, Liberty Utilities. They have a 24-hour customer call center at (877) 426-6999. The last posted Water Quality Report for the Village of Cambridge is available on their website.
Visit Liberty Utilities
ABOUT US
Our small town atmosphere has captivated families, business people, artists, retirees, and a variety of others who have made this community their home. As a central location, the Village of Cambridge offers convenient access to big cities and towns, as well as some of New York's most picturesque scenery.
REACH US
clerk@cambridgeny.gov
PHONE
(518) 677-2622
LOCATION
56 N Park St, Cambridge, New York, 12816
