Woodbury Town Board appoints Kelly Rinaldi as a new councilwoman

Kelly Rinaldi was sworn in as a temporary Woodbury Town Board Councilmember during their March 20 meeting.

Rinaldi’s appointment at the board’s prior meeting was met with concern from such residents as Martha Lopez, who claimed that Rinaldi has no prior experience and that her being appointed to the board while actively running for a seat creates a conflict of interest.

Rinaldi addressed concerns about her experience at the recent meeting: “Although I lack prior experience in this role, I am committed to learning quickly. I have already engaged with numerous businesses to understand their concerns and identify areas where we can assist.”

Rinaldi’s appointment was approved after the Town Board accepted Robert Beckley’s resignation. Beckley had been appointed last November after the resignation of Timothy Finnegan.

In his letter announcing his resignation, Beckley said he “did not have the time required to act in the position’s fullest capacity.”

The animal shelter

During the meeting Woodbury Town Supervisor Kathryn Luciani announced that the town received a $30,000 grant for repaving the driveway and parking lot area at the courthouse. She also said the town will once apply for a grant to support the animal shelter, which it did not receive last year.

Councilmember Teresa Luongo also spoke about the shelter, commenting on feedback regarding the shelter, including some calls for it to close. She shared her appreciation for Animal Control Department Head Sonia Hennessey and the rest of the shelter staff for their work in ensuring the shelter meets new state standards.

Other business

During the meeting, Highland Mills resident Maria Hunter raised the issue of debris and other mess near Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, noting that when it rains, people are unable to get under the nearby railroad trestle.

Hunter was adamant, however, that Woodbury Common should not feel the brunt of the blame, as the shopping center contributes $15 million in various local taxes, helping to keep individual tax burdens low.

Hunter called on the board to form a committee to address the mess by the Commons. Luciani offered to join Hunter to check out the area.

The Town of Woodbury also entered an intermunicipal agreement with Orange County, under which the county will provide funds to support local law enforcement in their efforts to deter motorists from driving while intoxicated or under the influence and catch offending parties.