The Peru Gazette

Tractor Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting

The Peru Tractor Parade is scheduled for December 4. It will depart from Irwin’s Maplegrand Farm on Jarvis Road at 6 p.m. More details will follow.

The Town’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will also take place on December 4. Details will be announced.

Telegraph Road Bridge

The board approved a resolution to transfer ownership and maintenance of the recently constructed Telegraph Road Dry Mill Brook culvert/bridge to Clinton County. The resolution cited the specialized personnel, equipment, and financial resources needed to maintain the structure. To qualify for the ownership change, Clinton County required the town to have an on-site inspector throughout construction.  The county will take ownership of structures classified as a bridge. It will not take ownership of culverts or and certain other bridges such as on Wescott Road where Peru’s next major road project will take place. Bid opening is scheduled for December 11. 

Transferring responsibility and ownership to the county would relieve Peru taxpayers of future bridge maintenance expenses. The resolution authorized Randall to work with county officials and engineers to complete the needed agreements and paperwork.

Junkyard License Application

The board delayed action pending a public hearing on a zoning application filed by Michael Wells, owner of Tired Iron Hauling and Repair at 135 Connors Road. Wells seeks to expand his automotive repair and towing service to include a salvage yard. In 2021, Wells purchased a 14-acre parcel from Michael Relation, owner of Rustic Auto Body and Salvage Yard. Earlier this year, Wells purchased an adjacent parcel from the Relation family estate. The salvaged vehicle area would not be expanded. The public hearing is scheduled for Monday, November 25, at 5:45 p.m.

Code Enforcement Officer’s (CEO) October Report 

During October, CEO Duane Bibeau reported issuing 21 building permits, collecting $5,449.63 in fees, issuing 12 Certificates of Compliance/Occupancy, completing 49 permit inspections, and performing 6 annual mobile home park/campground inspections (434 site inspections). CEO October Report

Planning Board Reappointment 

Acting on a letter from Planning Board Chairman Garrett Mastic stating that the board rescinded a resolution passed at its last meeting appointing Mastic as chairman. Instead, it reappointed Mastic to a seven-year term as a planning board member. As has been the practice, the board will address the chair position in early 2027.  

Water District Finances

As it does every year, the board voted to levy unpaid water and sewer bills on delinquent property owners’ 2027 taxes. $57,269.67 remains unpaid, a typical amount. 

Joining an Effort to Lower Electric Costs 

Supervisor Craig Randall asked the board to support a petition to state legislators seeking legislation to lower utility costs for North Country consumers. Unitary America, the volunteer group that distributes food and books and performs trash pickup in the area, has had several towns agree to sign. Garrett Monette, the organization’s founder, asked Randall if Peru would join with our neighboring towns. The town board voted to include Peru in the petition. 

Agenda & Resolutions 110926

Click here to view the Gazette’s meeting video. Note, an air fan impacted the video’s sound. 

Click here for the ProPublica story 

Click here for the Vermont Public story 

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y.< November 9, 2026 – Assemblyman Michael S. Cashman (D-Plattsburgh) announced the launch of his 2026 Holiday Toy Drive collection to benefit the Christmas Bureau. The annual tradition gathers and donates new, unwrapped toys to donate to North Country children during the holiday season.

            “I am thrilled to announce the return of my office’s Holiday Toy Drive,” Cashman said. “Between today and December 7, my team will be collecting toys to bring smiles to the faces of hundreds of children around the region. The Christmas Bureau does incredible work for the kids of the North Country, and I am proud to be able to support them once again. I encourage everyone to donate if they are able. I was grateful for the community’s outpouring of generosity and support last year, and this year, my team’s goal is to collect even more. Together, we can bring even more joy to the North Country!”

“The Christmas Bureau could not do what we do without the help of our community,” Clinton County Christmas Bureau President Tammy Perrotte Sears said. “Thank you, Assemblyman Cashman, for organizing this toy drive and all the people that donate to it. Together, we sure know how to make a kid smile!”

            Donations can be dropped off at Assemblyman Cashman’s district office, located at 202 US Oval in Plattsburgh, on Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.. If you have any questions, reach out to his district office at 518-562-1986.

Click here for the Yahoo.com story 

Hunter pays civil penalties totaling $1,405 

Illegal Deer Take – Franklin County
On the October 24 opening day of the Northern Zone Firearms Season, ECO Okonuk heard rifle shots near the Village of Malone, investigated, and found two untagged antlerless deer hanging in a garage. The deer did not belong to any residents in the vicinity, but Officer Okonuk was able to identify a person of interest through the investigation. The following day, ECOs Garrand and Okonuk responded to a camp and interviewed the hunter suspected of taking the antlerless deer. During the interview, the Officers learned that the subject had illegally harvested the deer on October 21 and 23 over pre-established bait, consisting of apples, corn, and salt. In addition, the hunter purchased a resident license but is a non-resident hunter. ECOs determined the subject violated 10 provisions of New York State’s Environmental Conservation Law, including hunting over pre-established bait. The individual was arraigned in the Town of Belmont Court and agreed to a compromise of civil penalties totaling $1,405. The venison was donated. It is illegal in New York State to hunt deer over bait, feed deer, or place salt near an area inhabited by deer.  

L-R Cindi LaFountain, Kathy Fessette, and Tracey Howard present the check to Ashley Bejeau at St. Joseph’s Food Pantry.

Roxanne LaBarge and Margaret Tallman accept the check from Kathy Fessette & Tracey Howard at The Interfaith Food Shelf

November 8, 2026 – News Release – The Northeastern Zone of The Retired Educators of NY held their first annual golf tournament this summer. With the proceeds, we were thrilled to present The Interfaith Food Shelf and St. Joseph’s Food Pantry with checks for $1000 each. The planning for next year’s event has already begun.  We will be looking for golfers, volunteers and sponsors. It’s a fun event and a wonderful way to give back to our community.

Click here for the Vermont Public story 

Click here for the ColchesterSun story 

ADIRONDACKS, USA (November 6, 2026) – Towns and villages throughout the Adirondacks are preparing to celebrate the holiday season with multi-day events planned throughout November and December. Holiday strolls, local shopping events, festive entertainment, and family activities offer residents and visitors opportunities to experience Adirondack traditions while supporting local communities, businesses, and artisans.

Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST) Chief Operating Officer Mary Jane Lawrence said the events reflect community spirit found throughout the Adirondacks. “These holiday celebrations reflect the strong sense of community that makes the Adirondacks so special,” Lawrence said. “They bring neighbors together, welcome visitors into our towns and villages, and create opportunities for people of all ages to share in the traditions and experiences that make this season fun and memorable.”

Residents and visitors can find a full listing of holiday events, celebrations, and community gatherings throughout the Adirondacks at AdirondacksUSA.com/events.

Multi-Day Holiday Events Across the Adirondacks

Indian Lake Country Christmas Tour — Indian Lake | November 27–28, 2026
A two-day celebration featuring artisan crafts, festive treats, local makers, and a family-friendly celebration.
experienceouradirondacks.com/events/town-of-indian-lake-country-christmas-tour

Adirondack Christmas on Main Street — Inlet | November 27–29, 2026
Downtown shops will offer specials alongside activities, refreshments, visits with Santa, and a tree-lighting ceremony.
experienceouradirondacks.com/events/adirondack-christmas-on-main-street-in-inlet-0

Ticonderoga Area North Country Christmas — Ticonderoga | November 28–December 8, 2026
A regional holiday celebration featuring seasonal events and daily local shopping and dining deals.
lakechamplainregion.com/events/ticonderoga-area-north-country-christmas

Holidays in Essex — Essex | December 4–5, 2026
A two-day event in historic Essex with a festive tree lighting, live entertainment, visits with Santa, a Reindeer Run, family-friendly activities, and local shopping and treats.

lakechamplainregion.com/events/holidays-in-essex

Tupper Lake Holiday Stroll — Tupper Lake | December 4–6, 2026
A community-wide celebration featuring shopping, vendor fairs, holiday light displays, art shows, entertainment, and appearances by Santa Claus.
tupperlake.com/events/holiday-stroll

Christmas in Schroon Lake — Schroon Lake | December 11–12, 2026
This family-oriented celebration includes a polar plunge, festival of trees, craft show, live music, strolling carolers, horse-and-wagon rides, a tree-lighting ceremony, and a holiday lights parade. adirondackhub.com/events/christmas-in-schroon-lake-0
Read more »

Click here for the NCPR story 

Click here for the WPTZ News story 

Mac’n Cheese/Ham

Vegetable 

Bread

Dessert 

Served 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., take-out only, at St. Augustine’s Parish Center, 3030 Main St., Peru, NY 12972. 

All are invited and welcome!

Click here for the Adirondack Explorer story 

By John T. Ryan

Rising infrastructure costs, mounting debt, and the need to expand Peru’s tax base highlighted the Town Board’s November 5 public hearing on its preliminary 2027 budget.

Supervisor Craig Randall outlined the five town budgets (General, Highway, Water, Sewer, Valcour Sewer), explaining that although some individual budgets are decreasing, the town faces significant financial challenges from road and bridge projects, wastewater improvements, and an anticipated drinking water system upgrade.

Final Budget Meeting November 19

Randall said the preliminary budget will undergo additional adjustments, particularly as more information becomes available about sales tax revenues. The Town Board plans to consider the final budget at a special meeting Thursday, November 19, at 5:30 p.m.  Randall emphasized that even after all adjustments, the budget will exceed the State’s 2% tax cap. 

General Fund Tax Levy to Increase

The preliminary General Fund budget is about $11,682 higher than this year’s budget, but the tax levy is expected to increase by about $224,000.

Randall attributed much of the increase to lower-than-expected sales tax revenue. The town received approximately $166,656 in 2026, compared with the budgeted $225,000. The preliminary 2027 budget estimates only $125,000. The town is also reducing its planned use of General Fund balances from $200,000 to $100,000.

The projected tax rate is $1.91 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, compared with $1.69 last year.

Randall said credit rating agencies have expressed concern about the town’s growing debt and reliance on fund balances. The town’s credit rating affects the interest rates it pays when borrowing money.

Highway and Infrastructure Debt

The proposed Highway Fund budget is approximately $2.269 million, down about $45,000. Nevertheless, the highway tax levy is projected to increase approximately 1.8%, primarily because of debt associated with recent road, culvert, and bridge projects.

Two bond anticipation notes totaling approximately $7.3 million are expected to be combined into a single 30-year bond in 2027.

Water and Sewer Projects Bring Future Expenses

The sewer budget is projected to decrease by approximately $47,000. However, beginning in 2028, the town will face annual debt payments for its wastewater treatment plant project. A state grant will fund 50% of the project, while the town’s approximately $8 million share will be financed through a 30-year, interest-free loan. The new facility is expected to become operational around December.

The town is also planning a $9.4 million drinking water improvement project to address turbidity problems with its existing surface-water supply. The proposed improvements include a supplemental groundwater source and filtration upgrades. The town anticipates a $5 million state grant, with the remaining $4.4 million potentially financed through a 30-year interest-free loan.

Randall noted that future debt payments could significantly affect water rates. The water system serves approximately 800 customers, while the sewer system serves about 600.

Town Seeks to Expand Housing Opportunities

Randall said expanding Peru’s tax base will be important in managing future expenses. The town wants to encourage additional housing, particularly for young families and seniors seeking one-story homes.

Attracting young families would benefit the school district, while additional senior housing could allow longtime residents to remain in Peru and make their existing homes available to younger families. Randall also discussed pursuing grants for municipal improvements and community projects.

Other Hearing Topics

School Board President Bonnie Barry was the only member of the public to attend the meeting. Barry and board members discussed concerns about electric bicycles and scooters being operated dangerously on town roads, trails, and park property.

Randall suggested additional safety education and cooperation with the school district and Clinton County Sheriff’s Department. Barry also expressed interest in greater cooperation among the Town Board, School Board, and Fire Department on long-term community planning.

Editor’s Note – The Gazette recorded this meeting, asked ChatGPT to summarize it and write a news story based on its summary.  Your editor reviewed ChatGPT story, made a few corrections and added clarifying information.

2027 PRELIMINARY BUDGET

Click here for the Peru Gazette’s meeting video 

Hochul’s big margins, Democrats’ statewide gains, and half a billion dollars spent.

Click here for the New York Focus story 

Click here for the Adirondack Explorer story 

Click here for the Sun Community News story 

“I can be tough, I can instill discipline, but I will also go to bat for my people.”

Click here for the Sun Community News story 

Free Holiday Celebration November 28–29 Features Santa, Family Activities, Handmade Christmas Decorations, and a Magical Lighted Trail

SCHUYLER FALLS, NY, November 6, 2026 –  — The magic of Christmas is coming to Schuyler Falls! Kickin’ Up Dust invites the North Country community to celebrate the season at its Kissing Ball Christmas Charity Event and grand opening of the Northern Lights Holiday Trail, November 28–29, 2026, at 362 Peasleeville Road in Schuyler Falls.

This festive, family-friendly celebration will feature Santa, farm animals, Christmas activities, holiday shopping, and a dazzling trail of Christmas lights. Admission is FREE, with donations welcome and appreciated to benefit Thera-Pets.

Saturday, November 28 — Christmas Fun for Everyone!

The main charity event takes place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring visits with Santa and his holiday friends from 1–3 p.m., pony rides for small children from noon–1 p.m., farm animals, crafts, ornament making, letters to Santa, games, a bounce house, holiday movies, hot chocolate, snacks, and more!

Santa will also have gifts for the children! Raffle items will be available, along with handmade Christmas decorations and gifts for purchase.

At 5 p.m., a special Christmas tree lighting will kick off the grand opening of the Northern Lights Holiday Trail, which will remain open until 8 p.m.

The approximately quarter-mile trail features colorful holiday displays along flat terrain and is wheelchair accessible, with an accessible outhouse available.

Saturday evening is WALKING ONLY. No vehicles will be permitted on the trail.

Sunday, November 29 — More Holiday Cheer!

The farm will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with animal visits, barn activities, holiday shopping, and Christmas fun. Santa will make a special appearance from 1–2 p.m. Other holiday characters will not be appearing Sunday.

From 5–8 p.m., the Northern Lights Holiday Trail will be open for vehicle drive-throughs and train rides only. No walkers permitted.

Northern Lights Holiday Trail Continues Through January 2

The Northern Lights Holiday Trail will be open every Friday and Saturday from 5–8 p.m. through January 2, 2027, for WALKERS ONLY.

Special Sunday Drive-Through Nights:

• November 29 — 5–8 p.m.
• December 13 — 5–8 p.m.
• December 27 — 5–8 p.m.

Sunday evenings are for vehicle drive-throughs and train rides ONLY. No walkers allowed. Read more »

Left to Right: Steve Leffler, Bob Ortmyer, Sen. Dan Stec, Assemblyman Matt Simpson

Joint legislative resolution recognizes a century of care in Essex County 

Elizabethtown, NY, November 6, 2026 –  – One hundred years ago, a small community hospital opened its doors in Elizabethtown with a simple mission: care for neighbors close to home. This week, that legacy was formally recognized by the New York State Legislature.

Leaders, employees, board members and community partners gathered at University of Vermont Health Network – Elizabethtown Community Hospital as New York State Senator Dan Stec, R-45^th District, and New York State Assemblyman Matt Simpson, R-114^th District, presented a Joint Legislative Resolution commemorating the hospital’s first 100 years of service to the people of Essex County and the Adirondack region.

The resolution recognizes Elizabethtown Community Hospital’s century-long commitment to providing care, responding to community needs and improving the health and well-being of residents.

Founded in 1926 as the Community House Hospital, ECH has evolved Read more »