2025
Town of Wappinger State of the Town Address
“Our Sesquicentennial Year”
Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavaccini
Read the 2025 State of the Town Address HERE
Wappinger, NY – Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavaccini delivered his 2025 State of the Town Address on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 before 120 residents at the newly renovated Chapel at Carnwath Farms Historic Site and Park. The substantial renovations occurred as the town marks 25 years since acquiring the land. His address, themed “Our Sesquicentennial Year,” celebrated both Town achievements and a bold vision for a sustainable, community-driven future.
In unveiling “The Chapel” to the audience, Cavaccini surprised many by announcing, “Today, ‘The Chapel’ is now open to the public as a new high-end event venue in our community. This new space will be made available for community rentals for weddings, receptions, and life’s memorable moments.”
Key highlights of the address included:
Fiscal Responsibility and Smart Investments
Cavaccini unveiled a balanced 2025 Town Budget that lowers the tax rate while increasing services, preserving Wappinger’s distinction as the most affordable town in Dutchess County. The Town has generated nearly $60,000 per month in interest income through a diversified investment strategy and implemented new digital financial systems, saving taxpayers over $30,000 annually.
Land Use, Economic Development, and Sustainability
The Town’s ongoing moratorium has preserved hundreds of acres of open space and prevented over 2,000 high-density units from disrupting single-family zones. Over $100 million in new investment has been secured by repurposing underused properties and brownfields. Projects include revitalized shopping centers, a proposed athletic complex on a former scrapyard, and a new agreement bringing tax revenue from the Hudson Valley Regional Airport for the first time since 1937.
Historic Preservation and Park Improvements
Wappinger’s parks have seen sweeping upgrades. Notably, Brexel-Schlathaus Park now includes a new performance stage and war memorial improvements, while Spook Hill Park features fitness equipment and a new track. The Vietnam War Memorial Plaza at Martz Field and accessibility improvements at the Chelsea Boat Ramp were also unveiled.
Community Engagement and Services Expansion
The Town has grown its Senior Center membership by nearly 100% and expanded recreation offerings for all ages. Through public-private partnerships and community involvement, Wappinger has strengthened local initiatives such as Hometown Heroes, mental health advocacy, opioid reduction efforts, and support for volunteer fire departments.
Public Safety and Infrastructure Upgrades
With Highway Superintendent Michael Sheehan, the Town has completed significant paving projects, sewer upgrades, and modernized its Highway Department Facility after five decades. Improvements to the Town Recycle Center and garbage handling are saving taxpayers $250,000 annually.
A Town on the Rise
Supervisor Cavaccini emphasized that Wappinger is not only preserving its history but also becoming a regional model for sustainable growth and innovation. From local agritourism and film production to youth sports and new business opportunities, Wappinger is building a legacy of pride, progress, and community connection.
After listing the many accomplishments that the town has already achieved, with more on the horizon since Cavaccini, who serves as the Vice-President of the Dutchess County Supervisors and Mayors Association, told the audience “In our second year together, I am proud to report that the state of our town is strong, and we are just getting started.”
