Some progress on relieving pressure on rent and the cost of housing

Housing affordability remains a major challenge in Dutchess County. In this video, I discuss two important steps we’re taking to help reduce pressure on housing costs:

  • Releasing $7 million from the Housing Trust Fund
  • My appointment to the IDA/LDC to help direct incentives toward housing development

These actions are about increasing supply, supporting smart development, and making our communities more affordable. Thanks for watching — more updates soon.

Nation in crisis

The future of our nation is at the top of our minds. It can often crowd out everything else that’s going on. It’s tough to follow current events no matter who you are. And just when you think it can’t get worse, it does.

Office Hours – Coffee with Kris

Thanks to those who stopped by today during my office hours at Taste Budd’s: some old friends and a couple of new ones! We discussed public transit, the new grant program for homeless initiatives I pushed through late last year, and shrinking enrollments in local school districts.

Homeless grant passes

Budget time is over, and my homeless grant proposal was incorporated into the budget. Thank you to everyone who wrote in support – it was a huge help. We’re working hard, preparing for our new Democratic majority starting next month!

Budget Breakdown: Tax Exemption Saved, Housing Boosted

Quick update from last night’s Dutchess County budget meeting:

• We kept the sales tax exemption on clothes & shoes under $110
• We doubled the Housing Trust Fund from $1M to $2M
• We increased funding for Rev250 programs celebrating the 250th anniversary of 1776

These are real wins for families, affordability, and local history.

More updates coming soon — subscribe for budget breakdowns and Dutchess County news.