Village of Cambridge, NY
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.
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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!###
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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.
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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.
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Tri-Town Community Picnic: Three Towns, One Table
Cambridge may look like one village on the map, but our roots stretch across three hometowns: White Creek, Cambridge, and just a stone’s throw away, Jackson. On Friday, July 25, 2025, at 5:00 PM, those shared roots come together for the first-ever Tri-Town Community Picnic at the American Legion, 2106 State Route 22.What to Expect🍽️ Grilled classics & potluck favoritesBring a dish that tells your family story... because some recipes carry generations in every bite.🎶 Live regional musicToes will tap, neighbors will sway. Good tunes guaranteed.🏓 Lawn games & Activities for All AgesFrom classic favorites to lighthearted competition, family-friendly games will keep all ages entertained.📚 “History in Five Minutes”Local author and historian Ken Gottry shares how these three towns have always been linked by land, by labor, and by legacy.🎟️ RafflesProceeds will help seed future community events.A $5 donation is suggested. No town funds are used to host this event.Picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and your best small-town stories encouraged.Why It MattersFor over 260 years, the towns of Jackson, Cambridge, and White Creek have shared roads, schools, mills, and midnight-call neighbors. This picnic celebrates that invisible thread. The one that runs deeper than borders.Whether it’s a surveyed line through a hayfield or the few hundred feet that place part of our village in Jackson, boundaries blur where communities thrive.Join Us📅 Friday, July 25, 2025 · 5:00 PM📍 American Legion Post, 2106 State Route 22, Cambridge🧺 Bring: A dish to pass, a lawn chair, and an appetite for stories.Questions?Contact Molly Dixson at 518-677-0356 or jacksontownclerkny@gmail.comLet’s break bread, share laughs, and prove what we’ve always known:Good neighbors make great towns... three at a time.
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Exploring the Future of the Cambridge Skate Park: Your Voice Matters
Did you know that Cambridge is home to Washington County’s only skate park? Quietly nestled behind the Village Office and Police Station on North Park Street, this small but spirited space has welcomed local skaters for over a decade.But time has taken its toll.Today, the ramps are worn. The features are outdated. The amenities are few. Simply put: it’s no longer meeting the needs of the community the way it once did.The Village is not currently pursuing grants or planning taxpayer-funded upgrades. However, we've begun hearing from residents, especially younger voices, who see potential. They envision a more vibrant, welcoming, and safe space for kids, teens, and families. And they’re asking: could the skate park be something more?So, we're turning the question over to you:Do you or your kids use the skate park now?Would you use it more if it were improved?Are you, or a group you're part of, interested in helping with repairs or applying for outside funding?Would you volunteer, share ideas, or contribute your skills to reimagine the space?This is not about raising taxes. It’s about raising hands to see if there’s enough community interest and energy to take the next step. If there is, the Village is ready to support those efforts with guidance, coordination, and letters of support for outside funding.Tell us what you think:Email clerk@cambridgeny.gov, stop by the Village Office during business hours, or leave a comment on this post. Better yet, join us at a Village Board meeting. The mic is always open.Let’s find out: should we roll forward with the skate park?
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Cambridge Valley Summer Day Camp: Registration Now Open!
Summer is calling and the Cambridge Youth Commission is ready to answer. Registration is now open for the 2025 Cambridge Valley Summer Day Camp, offering six weeks of outdoor fun, creative projects, and new friendships for children entering Kindergarten through 6th grade.Camp will run Monday through Friday, from July 7 to August 15, at Lake Lauderdale, with aftercare available at the CYC Building until 5:00 PM. Families can register by the week, making it easy to plan around vacations or other summer activities.Cost is $200 per week for full-day camp and $50 per week for aftercare. Sibling discounts and scholarships are available. Best of all: register now, pay later—payment isn’t due until June 28.You can sign up online or drop off a form at the Village Clerk’s Office. For questions, contact the Youth Commission at youth@cambridgeny.gov or call (518) 677-2622.We can’t wait to welcome this year’s campers! Let the summer adventures begin!
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Making Maple, Gilbert & South Park Streets Safer for Everyone
Office of the MayorWhy We're Looking at Speed Limits NowThe Village of Cambridge is taking formal steps to reduce the posted speed limits on two key roads that run through our community:Route 313 (Maple and Gilbert Streets)A short segment of Route 22 (South Park Street), near the school and District OfficeBoth are state highways that fall under the jurisdiction of NYSDOT, but for those of us who live here, they’re also everyday community streets. They're used by children walking to school, neighbors heading to urgent care, and first responders on emergency calls.What’s Changed on These RoadsRoute 313 has seen significant growth in the past several decades. Today, this corridor includes:🚒 Cambridge Fire Department🚑 Cambridge Valley Rescue Squad🏥 Urgent Care & Medical Offices🎓 Head Start Program🎯 Youth Program Facility (Village Youth Commission)🏠 Condominium housing and single-family homes💼 TCT Federal Credit UnionDespite these changes, the posted limit on Route 313 remains 40 MPH. And on Route 22, it quickly jumps to 45 MPH before even leaving the Village.These speeds no longer reflect the character or safety needs of our growing, mixed-use environment.What We’re ProposingAs Mayor, I am preparing a formal request to the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to reduce the posted speed limits on both corridors to 30 MPH within the Village boundaries.This is a targeted, data-driven proposal designed to:Protect pedestrians and driversImprove conditions for emergency response vehiclesReflect the actual use and development of these roads todayYour Voice Matters: Public Comment Now OpenTo help support this request, we’re inviting the public to submit comments through a brief online form.📝 Click here to share your input → https://v3.cambridgeny.gov/22313📅 Comment period ends: June 30, 2025💬 All comments will be included in the July 2025 Board of Trustees meeting and submitted to NYSDOT as part of our official request.What Happens NextIn July, the Village Board will vote on a formal resolution. We’ll also be gathering letters of support from:Cambridge Central School DistrictCambridge Fire DepartmentRescue SquadLocal business owners and civic leadersResidents like youWe’re also considering a short stakeholder workshop in late June to coordinate efforts and finalize materials before submission.This Is Just the First StepThis effort is focused solely on speed reduction. However, we believe this conversation with NYSDOT will help open the door for future improvements and broader safety planning, together.If you have thoughts or want to get involved, you can always reach out to my office directly.Your Input Is More Than HelpfulThank you for taking the time to read and participate. Thoughtful civic input like yours is what helps us build a safer, more responsive Cambridge.James W. SweeneyMayor, Village of Cambridge📩 mayorsweeney@cambridgeny.gov
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Chickens, Codes & Consideration: A Note on Backyard Birds
As we head into summer and more residents spend time outdoors, the Village is seeing an uptick in questions about backyard chickens and other animals — a good opportunity to clarify what’s allowed and why it matters.What the Village Code SaysVillage Code permits up to 8 chickens per residential property, as long as they are:Properly housedSecurely enclosedRooster-freeOther farm animals, including ducks, geese, rabbits, and pigeons, are not permitted unless the property is at least 5 acres and zoned Rural Residential.These rules help ensure that all neighbors can enjoy their property peacefully and that animal keeping doesn't unintentionally invite issues like noise, odors, or pests.Feed, Cleanliness & Public HealthOne common concern isn’t the birds themselves, but how their feed is stored. Improperly stored grain can attract unwanted wildlife, especially rodents. Even a small amount of spilled feed left out regularly can create conditions that lead to bigger problems.If you’re keeping chickens (or thinking about it), make sure your setup is:Clean and secureFeed is sealed in containersWaste is managed regularlyQuestions or Concerns?If you have questions about what’s allowed, or if you’re experiencing an issue related to animal keeping, reach out to the Village Clerk’s Office. We’re happy to clarify the code, and when needed, our Code Enforcement Officer can take a closer look.Let’s keep our neighborhoods clean, safe, and cooperative. And make room for both community and common sense.Zoning Reference:Section 7.09 – Regulation of ChickensSection 5.08(A) – Agricultural Use with Livestock in Rural Residential ZonesReview the full zoning law, CLICK HERE or contact the Village Offices.
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Balloon Festival 2025: Cambridge’s Signature Summer Celebration Returns June 6
Get ready! Balloon Festival 2025 is nearly here, and it’s shaping up to be one of the best yet. Whether you're a longtime resident or it’s your first time joining us, mark your calendars for Friday, June 6 through Sunday, June 8, and prepare for a weekend full of color, community, and unforgettable moments.Hosted on the grounds of Cambridge Central School, this free, family-friendly event brings the village together under a sky filled with hot air balloons and shared summer joy. You’ll find local food, craft vendors, carnival rides, and new this year... tethered balloon rides offering a safe, short flight with sweeping views of our valley.🗓️ Festival HighlightsBalloon Launches: Scheduled for Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m., and early mornings on Saturday and Sunday at 5:30 a.m. (weather permitting).Tethered Balloon Rides: $20 per person with Above All Balloon Rides, available Friday at 5 p.m. until rides are full.Carnival Fun: Unlimited rides on Saturday with a $25 wristband (1–9 p.m.).Moon Glow: Saturday night’s signature event—balloons glow from within to music as dusk falls.Fireworks: Friday night at The Mansion grounds on South Union Street.Lions Car Show, Flying Club Fly-In, Craft Fair & Food Vendors: All day Saturday on school grounds.Pilots Breakfast: Sunday morning at the American Legion, Route 22.🎡 Why It MattersMore than just a weekend event, Balloon Festival is a celebration of what makes Cambridge special—neighbors pitching in, local pride in full view, and simple joys shared under the open sky. Now in its 23rd year, the festival is powered by the Cambridge Valley Chamber of Commerce and dozens of dedicated volunteers. It’s where we catch up with old friends, meet new ones, and remind ourselves what small-town community really looks like.Whether you’re coming for the balloons, the carnival, or just a good hot dog and a view, we hope you’ll join us in making this another memorable chapter in Cambridge’s summer story.For schedule updates and additional information, visit the official festival page or call (518) 677-0887.See you there and don’t forget a lawn chair.
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Why a $16 Chicken Dinner Matters More Than You Think
On Sunday, May 25th from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, the Cambridge Volunteer Fire Department is firing up the grill for a cause that’s as urgent as it is delicious: their annual Chicken Barbecue Fundraiser. For $16, the price of a meal you’d grab without thinking, you get:½ Chicken, flame-grilled to perfectionPotato, Coleslaw, and RollA Brownie for good measureAnd most importantly: the satisfaction of backing the volunteers who back us, 24/7💡 One dollar of your purchase covers digital processing. Every other penny supports readiness, response, and resources for the department.This fundraiser has quietly become a Cambridge tradition. For over 25 years, this humble meal has helped keep gear updated, training ongoing, and fire trucks rolling. It’s not flashy. But it’s essential.Years ago, our fire department poured its heart into the Fireman's Carnival. A summertime highlight with fireworks, carnival games, pony rides, and rural charm. It was a beautiful chapter in our village story. But it also required hundreds of volunteer hours and often raised less money than a single barbecue event. Those hours are now wisely spent on drills, calls, and keeping our neighbors safe.But don’t worry! A little of that carnival spirit is coming back. The beloved Cake Wheel will be spinning once again at this year’s Cambridge Balloon Festival (June 6–8, 2025). So yes, there will be frosting, suspense, and a chance to win dessert glory.✅ For now, do the simple thing that makes a big difference:Pre-order your dinner. Pick it up at 50 Gilbert Street. Eat well. Support better.Because our volunteers don’t ask for much and they’re always there when it counts.
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Owlkill Festival Returns May 18th
Date & Time: Sunday, May 18, 2025 - 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.Location: Owlkill Commons (Rice Seed Company Lawn), Cambridge, NYAdmission: FreeMore Info: Cambridge Community Partnership on Facebook A Community Celebration at Owlkill CommonsOn Sunday, May 18, 2025, the Cambridge Community Partnership will host the Second Annual Owlkill Festival, a free, family-focused event that brings residents and neighbors together to celebrate the season, share traditions, and enjoy outdoor fun.Owlkill Commons will serve as the lively backdrop for this springtime gathering, featuring a highlight event for kids, teens, and adults - the Duck Derby Races, scheduled for: 🦆 1:30 p.m. - Ages 6 & under 🦆 2:00 p.m. - Ages 6–21 🦆 2:30 p.m. - Adults 21 & olderThe festival is designed to offer an accessible, joyful experience for families, friends, and visitors of all ages. If you're looking for a reason to get outside, connect with neighbors, and enjoy a day rooted in local pride, this may be it. Events like the Owlkill Festival demonstrate the power of community-driven initiatives to bring people together and celebrate what makes Cambridge a uniquely connected place to live. Additional details, including entertainment and food vendors, will be shared by the organizers on the Cambridge Community Partnership’s Facebook page and website: cambridgecommunitypartnership.org.Mark your calendar for May 18th.Bring a chair, bring your family, and enjoy a Sunday outdoors in the heart of the village.About the Cambridge Community PartnershipThe Cambridge Valley Community Development and Preservation Partnership, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that promotes people working together to strengthen the economic and cultural vitality of Washington County. cambridgecommunitypartnership.orgDisclaimerThe Owlkill Festival is not a Village of Cambridge-sponsored event. It is organized and hosted by the Cambridge Valley Community Development and Preservation Partnership, Inc. (Cambridge Community Partnership), an independent nonprofit organization. The Village of Cambridge is not affiliated with or responsible for the planning, content, or execution of this event.
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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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Kayak Safety Training | MAY 17, 2025 | Cambridge Fire Department
May 1, 2025As spring opens up our rivers and creeks, it also brings a responsibility -to ourselves, to our families, and to each other. That’s why I want to spotlight an important event happening right here in the Village.On Saturday, May 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the Cambridge Fire Department is hosting a free Kayak Safety Course at 50 Gilbert Street.This is more than a weekend activity. It’s a hands-on, practical way to prepare for the paddling season - and a chance to learn directly from the first responders who know our waterways best. You’ll come away with tips, techniques, and the kind of awareness that can prevent accidents before they happen.Whether you’re new to kayaking or you’ve been paddling for years, I encourage you to join. Registration is required - once you sign up, the team will follow up with what to bring and how to prepare.Safety isn’t just seasonal, and it’s not something we outsource. It’s something we practice, together.I’m proud of our fire department for making this course available - and proud of the residents who will take the time to show up.See you on the water - safely.- James W. Sweeney, Mayor, Village of Cambridge, NY
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Grant Opportunity for Residents Pursuing Skilled Trades
Residents exploring careers in the skilled trades now have access to a new grant program aimed at helping cover educational or career-related costs.TCT Federal Credit Union recently launched its TCT Supports the Trades Grant, open to credit union members aged 16 and older who are either currently enrolled in or have completed a trade program and demonstrate financial need.The program is part of a regional push to connect skilled workers with steady, in-demand jobs. Employers such as Eastern Castings, Fort Miller Group, Hudson Headwaters, and IBEW Local 236 are just a few of the organizations TCT supports through its membership base — and all reflect the kinds of industries where skilled labor is urgently needed.“There are jobs in our communities that offer competitive salaries through a trade education, and we want to help them achieve their goals,” said Curt Cecala, CEO of TCT.The grant is now accepting applications. 🔗 Details and application info: www.tctfcu.org/grantsTCT maintains a branch here in Cambridge and has served the tri-county region since 1959. While the Village does not endorse any specific institution, we’re sharing this information as a public service — to help connect residents with tools, funding, and opportunities that support their goals.
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Understanding the Village’s Fiscal Stress Score
What’s This All About?Recently, the New York State Comptroller’s Office released its annual Fiscal Stress Monitoring Report, and Cambridge appeared on the list. That got some attention — and understandably so.Let’s clarify what this means, what it doesn’t mean, and where we go from here. The Board of Trustees has been transparent every step of the way — from the decisions made in 2023 to the ongoing planning we're doing now.It’s a score based on past data — specifically, the budget adopted back in April 2023. That’s nearly two budget cycles ago. It reflects choices made with residents in mind, during a period when inflation was high and everything from groceries to heating fuel was costing more. How Did We Get Here?Here’s what led to the score:The Village used fund balance that had been built up since 2015 to invest in public safety — things like airpacks, a firetruck, and parts of the new firehouse that weren’t covered by the loan.The tax rate increase was held to just 0.43%, even as the Village absorbed rising costs and completed long-planned public safety upgrades. The Village remained within just $61 of the state’s maximum levy limit — a clear sign of disciplined budgeting.The Comptroller’s model flags municipalities for drawing down reserves, even if that spending is intentional and aligned with long-term planning.So while the Village did spend, it spent on purpose — and on needs that were known and planned for.What Does the Score Really Mean?It’s important to understand how the state’s system works. The fiscal stress score is essentially a snapshot — one that doesn't always show the whole picture. It doesn’t look at why money was spent, just how much was spent and how much is left in reserves. So a village that spends wisely on public safety can score lower than one that stockpiles cash but delays upgrades.This score isn’t a warning light — it’s a report card from a moment in time. But that doesn’t mean we ignore it. We use it to inform smarter choices moving forward.What Are We Doing About It?Here’s what we’re already doing to strengthen the Village’s financial footing:Creating department-specific reserve funds to keep future equipment needs on trackAligning major purchases with lifecycle-based planning, so we replace things before they failImproving how we forecast, track, and value Village assets for long-term decision-makingCoordinating closely with the Treasurer’s Office to integrate those strategies into the annual budget processThese aren’t flashy moves — they’re practical ones. They build predictability into our budget and ensure that future Boards have the tools they need to plan, not just react.Where We Go From HereCambridge has never been about cutting corners or chasing headlines. We take care of each other. We make the hard decisions. And when something needs to be fixed — whether it’s a fire truck or a funding model — we get to work.So yes, we made big investments in public safety. Yes, we kept taxes low. And yes, that created a score we now have to manage. But the Village is in capable hands, and our plan is already in motion.If you’ve got questions, talk with any member of the Board of Trustees or join us at a Board meeting. Our door’s always open — because Cambridge works best when we work together.
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Big Day in Cambridge: Arbor Day Festival & Fire Department Open House - April 26
Saturday, April 26th is shaping up to be a true community day in the Village of Cambridge. From Durrin Park to the Cambridge Fire House, neighbors and families are invited to step out, pitch in, and connect with one another.🌳 The Tree Committee’s Arbor Day Festival kicks off at Durrin Park from 10AM - 2PM, with a celebration of spring — think trees, flowers, and community pride. It's the perfect time to clean up the yard, plant something new, or just enjoy the fresh air and friendly faces.🚒 Just across the way, the Cambridge Fire Department will be holding its RecruitNY Open House starting at 9AM. Residents of all ages can tour the firehouse, try on gear, meet local volunteers, and learn how to get involved — no firefighting experience required! There are all kinds of support roles available, and volunteers enjoy lifelong benefits: personal growth, professional development, and deep respect from the community.Whether you're planting a tree or thinking about stepping up for public service, April 26th is the day to get involved. The more we show up for each other, the stronger our village becomes — not just Cambridge, but the towns of White Creek and Jackson, too.Want to learn more about volunteering? Contact Melissa Spiezio at melissa.a.spiezio@gmail.com.Let’s make April 26th a day to remember — together.— Village of Cambridge, NY
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Cambridge, Connected
From the Office of the Mayor:Cambridge has a quiet strength—a web of small groups and gatherings that connect neighbors, build friendships, and make this place feel like home. Some are long-standing. Some are new. Many are known only to a handful of folks.We’d like to change that.We’re creating a community directory to spotlight the many clubs, circles, and coalitions—formal or informal—that help stitch the social fabric of our village and surrounding area. If a group brings people together, we want to help others discover it.Knitting groups. Snowmobile clubs. Book clubs. Choirs. 4-H. Walking circles. Craft nights. Faith groups. Music ensembles. Whatever the form, if it fosters connection, creation, or contribution—we want to hear about it.How to Share: Please send us the name of the group, a short description, and (if possible) a contact person:📧 clerk@cambridgeny.gov📞 518-677-2622💬 Or message us directly on Facebook at: facebook.com/VillageofCambridgeNYLet’s celebrate the incredible social fabric of Cambridge—and maybe even help someone find their people.Thank you for being part of what makes Cambridge more than just a place—it’s a community.—Mayor James SweeneyVillage of Cambridge, NYThis is not an endorsement of any specific group, but an invitation to connection. Submissions will be reviewed for appropriateness and community focus.
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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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