Editor’s Note: The Peekskill Herald’s “10 questions …”, column is for readers to know more about those who work in city government, own businesses, and support our city’s development. Today’s column features Cassandra Redd, City Clerk for the City of Peekskill.
How and why did you decide to become a civil servant?
Being of service was an important element in our household growing up, so serving my city was an easy choice for me. As a long-time Peekskill resident with deep roots in the community, I love working and serving the city I live in. I started as the Confidential Secretary to the City Manager in August 2020, where I was responsible for managing the schedules for our City Manager, Mayor, and Council. I loved working alongside our city leadership, learned a great deal, and my passion for helping residents has grown since starting at City Hall. While my position has changed since being appointed as the City Clerk in March 2023, my passion for helping others continues to grow as I do my part to help our residents and city every day.
What does it mean to be the City Clerk? What are the main responsibilities?
It was an honor to be appointed as the City Clerk, a position that I view as a valued opportunity. The main duties as the City Clerk include:
- Responsibility for the care and custody of all official records and documents of the City
- Protection and preservation of the City’s past history
- Administration of all municipal and special elections
- Maintain an accurate record of City Council proceedings, actions and documentation of City Council Meetings
- Administering the City’s records management program
- Receiving and filing claims against the City
- Maintenance of the Municipal Code
- Providing research and information services to the public and City personnel
- Maintenance of the Boards and Commissions list
What does a typical work day look like for you?
As the City Clerk, my work days are extremely busy and often start before 8:00 am. A typical day for me starts off by answering emails from the City Manager, Mayor and Council, as well as various departments and residents. Throughout the day, I attend meetings to move the business of the City forward, review and approve payroll and attendance for my staff, and assist residents that come into City Hall for parking permits, handicapped parking passes or general questions, information and directions.
What’s the best thing about your job, what’s your biggest challenge?
The best thing is swearing in our new police officers as well as the volunteers to our various Boards and Commissions. Our police officers and volunteers are an asset to our city. The biggest challenge as City Clerk is affirming the death records. Receiving the notification of a death is always tough as that person is connected to a family who are experiencing a difficult time and grieving the loss of a loved one.
Which projects stand out as the most significant ones you’ve worked on?
The projects that stand out as the most significant are the special recognitions that are held at City Hall i.e, Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Irish American Heritage Month, and Hispanic Heritage Month. I enjoy receiving the submissions and helping to organize the celebrations for the honorees who are recognized. Since my time as City Clerk, I have increased the collaborations with various stakeholders in the City including the Field Library and Peekskill City School District, and look forward to continuing more collaborations in the future. One collaboration that I enjoyed this year was having a special tribute prepared by a local poet during our Women’s History Month recognition.
What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in Peekskill?
Throughout the years, I have witnessed many great changes in Peekskill such as Fleischmann Pier, the walking trail from the Riverfront to Charles Point, and the new apartment buildings on Main Street and Park Place Tower. I am excited to see our city continue to grow and develop as a place for all to enjoy.
What has surprised you most about working in local government?
The people. From the immediate past City Manager Andy Stewart, immediate past Mayor Andre Rainey, to our current City Manager Matt Alexander, Mayor Vivian McKenzie, Council, and colleagues are all hardworking, committed, and kind. To be honest, I was very fearful and intimidated when I first walked into City Hall almost four years ago. Those initial feelings immediately went away the moment I came into contact with all the staff, who were and continue to be so welcoming and helpful.
I was also surprised to learn of all the tasks and areas the local government is responsible for and all of the laws that the city must comply with. Working in City Hall and seeing the day-to-day work being completed, has given me a greater appreciation for all that is done to keep the city moving forward.
Where is your favorite place to go in Peekskill, and why?
Peekskill High School. Each time I step foot into the school, it brings back great memories and friendships made as a cheerleader for the football and basketball teams. I had the pleasure of attending this year’s Peekskill Centennial Gala with so much pride as an alumna.
What would you like to say to the Peekskill community?
Thank you for the love and support shown to me since stepping into this role. Let’s all remember to support one another, practice patience and kindness, and remember to take advantage of the beauty that surrounds our great city.
Peekskill residents may find City Clerk Cassandra Redd in the City Clerk’s Office at City Hall, 840 Main Street, Peekskill, Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.