In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant infrastructure improvements and proposed changes to local eviction laws.

The meeting began with an update on the replacement of a deteriorating box culvert on Liberty Street, which allows water to flow beneath the roadway. The project, estimated at $125,000, received seven competitive bids, with Sun Up Construction Corp. from Wappinger's Falls awarded the contract for $114,916. The culvert, measuring 28 feet long and 10 feet wide, is expected to begin construction in the coming weeks. Officials assured that traffic management plans would minimize disruptions, particularly for nearby schools.

The meeting also addressed a proposed local law regarding eviction protections in Beacon. The law aims to implement the state's good cause eviction prohibition, with modifications based on public feedback. Key changes include raising the rent exemption threshold from 245% to 345% of the Dutchess County fair market rent and redefining \"small landlord\" to include anyone owning one rental unit or more. This adjustment aligns Beacon's regulations with similar measures in other municipalities, such as Albany and Poughkeepsie.

Council members discussed the implications of these changes, particularly how landlords and tenants would access updated fair market rent information. The fair market rent is determined annually by HUD and is available on the city’s website. The council emphasized the importance of clear communication to ensure both landlords and tenants understand their rights and obligations under the new law.

As the meeting concluded, officials expressed confidence that these initiatives would enhance infrastructure and housing stability in the community.