Mayor’s Weekly Message

May 18: Starting Summer Strong

As we approach Memorial Day weekend — the unofficial start of summer — we also take time to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. The American Legion will host a Memorial Day Ceremony at 2:00 p.m., and all are encouraged to attend as we come together as a community to recognize and remember our fallen heroes. I would also like to extend a sincere thank you to the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary and Dawn Mazur for their hard work coordinating the military banners displayed throughout the village. These banners serve as a lasting tribute to our local veterans and active service members and stand as a visible reminder of the sacrifices made by so many.

We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend while appreciating all that Greenwood Lake has to offer as we begin another summer season together.
We are hoping to open the beach this Friday, weather dependent. Initially, the beach will be open on weekends only through June 27th, then transition to daily operations for the summer season. Beach passes are still available for purchase, although the discounted preseason rate has now ended. Residents can also sign up for swim lessons online through the Village website.

  • This Thursday, the Mobile DMV will once again be visiting Greenwood Lake from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with a lunch closure from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. The Mobile DMV provides residents with a convenient way to handle many DMV transactions locally without having to travel outside the community.
  • Also on Thursday, May 21, residents will have the opportunity to signup at Village Hall at 7PM, for another round of weed-pulling of the invasive water chestnuts. These plants cause severe ecological and economic damage by forming thick, impenetrable surface mats. This invasive aquatic plant blocks sunlight, depletes oxygen, and produces sharp, spiny seed pods that cause painful injuries to swimmers and pets. One of the best ways to remove them, however, is labor intensive. Last year’s efforts were very valuable and we are hoping to repeat this important community initiative again this year.
  • The Greenwood Lake PBA will host its Bicycle Rodeo on Saturday, May 23rd at 10:00 a.m. at the police station located at 16 Church Street. This is always a great event for families and young riders, promoting bicycle safety while having fun.
  • For anyone planning to get out on the water this summer, the Greenwood Lake Police Department will be hosting a Boaters’ Safety Course on May 26th and 27th. Completing the course is an important step in helping keep everyone safe on the lake and ensures operators meet New York State boating requirements. Registration information is available on the Greenwood Lake PD website.
  • Looking ahead to June, the Laker Kids Community Garage Sale will take place on June 13th from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Winstanley Park. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and the Greenwood Lake Food Pantry.
  • Also on June 13th, the Greenwood Lake Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Street Fair from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The event will feature local vendors, food, shopping, community organizations, and activities for all ages. Vendor spots are still available, and interested participants can find more information on the Chamber’s Facebook page. As always, please be mindful of road closures and detours in the downtown area during the event and allow yourself extra travel time throughout the day.

As we continue planning for the Semiquincentennial celebration — America250 — we’re excited to announce that Greenwood Lake will host a parade, a bed race, and a concert at the beach featuring Ladies of the 80s. More details will be announced as we get closer, but we’re looking forward to celebrating this historic milestone together as a community.

Enjoy the warmer weather, support our local events, and we’ll see you around town.

Thomas Howley,
Mayor, Village of Greenwood Lake