Cambridge Community Update

Village of Cambridge New York

May 09.2025

Keeping Cambridge Ready: Fire Engine Refurbishment Approved

At the May 7th Village Board meeting, Trustees approved funding for the 2009 Engine Upgrade Project, a targeted effort to extend the life and capabilities of one of the Cambridge Fire Department’s core response vehicles.Rather than spending over half a million dollars on a new fire engine, the Board approved an allocation of up to $62,000 to refurbish and modernize our existing 2009 engine. This decision reflects a broader commitment to cost containment, operational readiness, and financial stewardship.What’s Included:Bodywork to address corrosion and restore structural integrityModern LED emergency lighting and safety upgradesNew backup camera and smart generatorInternal improvements completed by Cambridge Fire Department members saving approximately $3,500 in laborThese upgrades are designed to bring the 2009 engine up to today’s standards while extending its service life. The work will be completed in partnership with Premier Fire Apparatus, with support and sweat equity from our own department volunteers.How It’s Being Funded:The project will be paid for using a portion of the proceeds from the recent sale of the Old Firehouse.The remaining proceeds from that sale will be placed in reserve, pending further discussion by the Village Board and alignment with the Treasurer’s financial planning.Why It Matters:This isn’t just about saving money. It’s about protecting Cambridge. By investing in the equipment we already own and maintaining it to a high standard, we’re ensuring our volunteer firefighters are ready when the call comes in without putting undue strain on taxpayers.— Village of Cambridge, NYBoard of TrusteesP.S. Once the upgrades are finished, residents are welcome to stop by the firehouse and take a look. Our volunteers are always proud to show how your support helps them serve Cambridge.

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April 30.2025

Setting a Standard: What It Means to Get Things Done (Quietly)

A quiet reflection from Mayor James Sweeney on how Cambridge is building trust — not with noise, but with consistency, clarity, and the quiet work of getting things done.

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April 05.2025

Embracing Transparency: Building Trust in Cambridge, NY

In our small village of Cambridge, residents deserve to know what’s happening in local government. Mayor Sweeney believes that sharing clear and open updates benefits everyone—even if it sometimes invites challenging questions.Why Transparency MattersTransparency means keeping everyone informed about decisions made by the Board of Trustees. It builds trust by showing that local government is accountable to its people. When residents understand the reasons behind actions and policies, it creates a sense of community and shared responsibility.Addressing ConcernsSome worry that too much information might lead to controversy or increased criticism. However, open communication does more than just reveal challenges—it also gives government a chance to explain its work and listen to residents’ feedback. This dialogue can help solve problems before they become bigger issues.Actions for a Positive FutureRegular Updates: The new “Cambridge Community Update” will provide frequent and clear news about village projects, Board decisions, and upcoming events. This helps everyone stay informed.Clear Communication Channels: By offering an easy way for residents to ask questions and share concerns, the village can address issues quickly and effectively. This may include online forums, town hall meetings, or a dedicated email address for feedback.Educational Outreach: The village can host community sessions or workshops that explain how decisions are made. Understanding the process helps residents feel more connected and less likely to jump to conclusions.Feedback and Resolution Process: Establishing a clear procedure for handling feedback ensures that every comment is considered. This process can help resolve disputes and make improvements where needed.Consistent Messaging: Consistency in how information is shared can prevent misunderstandings. Regular updates ensure that the community receives the full picture, reducing room for rumors or misinformation.ConclusionTransparency isn’t just about sharing good news—it’s also about building a foundation of trust between local government and residents. While some concerns may arise, open communication through the Cambridge Community Update can lead to better decision-making and stronger community ties. In a small village like Cambridge, every resident’s voice matters, and clear information helps all of us move forward together.

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