CITY OF PEEKSKILL

False Alarm Near Campus Prompts Lockout in Schools

The cause of a lockout in all City of Peekskill schools last week was a false alarm. The Peekskill City School District placed all schools in a lockout on Thursday, Oct. 23, due to police activity in the area.

The following day, Friday, Oct. 24, Chief of Police Leo Dylewski said in a press release that the lockout was prompted by a false alarm after police were responding to a report of suspicious activity near a local school.

Preliminary communication from the police department indicated a possible burglary. This prompted the school district to initiate an immediate lockout as a precautionary measure, meaning no one could enter or exit the buildings.

Dylewski said following a thorough investigation, authorities determined that the report was unfounded. No action was required by the police department, and the school district lifted the lockout after being notified of the resolution.

“While the situation understandably caused concern among families, both the city and the school district demonstrated effective coordination and emergency response,” Dylewski said. “Thie incident served as a successful test of the community’s safety protocols.”

City to Accept $688,000 FEMA Grant for Fire Rescue Boat

What’s better than a firetruck? How about a firetruck and a fire rescue boat?

The Peekskill Common Council is expected to vote on a resolution to accept a $688,694 grant award for a fire rescue boat from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on Monday, Oct. 27.

The grant requires a 25 percent match from the City of Peekskill with the federal government covering 75 percent. However, state Sen. Pete Harckham has pledged to give $100,000 toward the city’s portion of the boat, leaving the city with only a 10 percent match at over $72,000.

The rescue boat aims to help the Peekskill Fire Department in responding to fires, rescues, and hazardous material events in all weather conditions, barring ice, explained firefighter Rocco Picciano, who led efforts to secure the grant at a work session meeting on Oct. 20.

“It’s made to handle a wide range of emergencies,” Picciano said. “It’s fast, stable, virtually unsinkable, and designed to operate in all weather conditions, whether that be day, night, rain, fog, or rough water.”

The boat is equipped for fire suppression using both water and foam, has advanced search and rescue technology using radar, sonar, and thermal, and includes radiological and nuclear detection equipment. It also has water supply capabilities that could support firefighting efforts on land.

Yearly maintenance cost is about $4,300 a year if everything needs to be replaced at once, including water pumps, fuel filters, and oil filters. The Peekskill Yacht Club offered to dock the boat at no charge to the city. If approved, the boat would be delivered within about a year. Several members of the Common Council were receptive to authorizing the grant.

“A $700,000 boat that we only have to pay $70,000 for, and we can protect our community on the waterfront [for] a long time, and a minimum of $4,000 a year for maintenance maximum — I think is a no-brainer,” said City of Peekskill Mayor Vivian McKenzie.

– Eric Harvey

Wiccopee Upper Reservoir Is Left Drained from Rain Deficit

The upper Wiccopee Reservoir is currently drained due to a deficit in rainwater, but Peekskill residents are not being asked to conserve water. The lower reservoir is also down about five or six feet.

Water and Sewer Superintendent David Rambo told the Peekskill Herald the drainage is a common occurrence for the reservoir between October and November, and around December it typically starts filling back up. The upper reservoir was also down about nine or ten feet last year due to the rain season.

In the meantime, those visiting the upper reservoir will be met with the unique sight of several tree stumps that are typically underwater, as well as a smaller stream of water coming into the lower reservoir. 

“It’s kind of barren and ugly looking, but it is what it is at this time of year,” Rambo said. “So we pray for some rain. Mother nature just hasn’t been really giving us the rain that we normally get. We usually get a hurricane or two that comes up the east coast, drops two, maybe three, four inches on us. And we just haven’t had it. So there’s been a deficit.”

The reservoir, located in Putnam Valley and owned by the City of Peekskill, contains 350 million gallons of water. The city’s treatment facility has a neighboring community used as a backup source in the event water needs to be purchased.

“We’re always on standby,” Rambo said. “We have an intermunicipal agreement with Northern Westchester Joint Water Works. If they need water, they can get water from us. And if we need water, we can get water from them. We have been in touch with them. It’s kind of a wait and see.”

– Eric Harvey

Bustos-Solis Murder Case Returns to Court Oct. 30

The alleged killer in the June 2024 stabbing on Main Street in Peekskill made a brief 60-second appearance in Westchester County Court last week as the case moves forward.

Walter F. Bustos-Solis is charged with one count of murder, one count of manslaughter, and one count of criminal possession of a weapon in the murder of Carlos Rodriguez, 33, who sustained severe lacerations to the lower part of his body after a fight on the 900 block of Main Street.

Peekskill police detectives quickly identified Bustos-Solis as a suspect in the case. One year later, on June 12, 2025, he was apprehended by federal authorities in Puebla City, Mexico, and extradited to the United States. Federal authorities turned him over for prosecution in New York on state charges.

At the Oct. 22 hearing in front of Westchester County Judge Melissa Loehr, Bustos-Solis’s case was handed over for a determination of when a trial might begin. His New York City attorney Jeffrey Greco was at a different trial and unavailable for the Oct. 22 hearing. His next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 30.

– Jim Roberts

Field Library Director Marks One Year in Post 

The Field Library’s Dana Hysell is celebrating one year as the library’s director after assuming the position on Oct. 24, 2024.

“It’s hard to believe it has already been a year since I started here as the director of the Field Library,” Hysell said in a newsletter. “I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey this has already been while looking forward to all of what is still to come. It has been an honor to serve this vibrant and engaged community, and I am filled with gratitude for the warm welcome you have shown me.”

Some of the accomplishments in that year included launching new initiatives such as a cooking program for all ages and expanded offerings for health and wellness, expanding the library’s collection to better reflect the interests and needs of patrons, enhancing the space, and navigating change.

“The heart of this library is not the building or the books, but the people who use it and work within its walls,” Hysell said. “Your enthusiasm and engagement are what make my work meaningful. Thank you for sharing your stories, your feedback, and your passion for learning with me.”

She continued, “As we look to the future, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. I am committed to listening to your ideas and working with our amazing and dedicated staff to build an even stronger library for everyone.”

Police Department Receives Bronze Award

The American Automobile Association (AAA) Northeast awarded the City of Peekskill Police Department with the Bronze Community Traffic Safety Award on Oct. 7 in recognition of traffic safety efforts during 2024.

AAA has long recognized communities that make outstanding efforts to improve the safety of local roads for all users. 

The Community Traffic Safety Awards focus on the national Safe System Approach, which takes into account five key areas: safer people, safer roads, safer vehicles, safer speeds, and post-crash care. 

The AAA said this approach makes “roadway safety a shared responsibility, recognizing that all stakeholders are vital to preventing fatalities and serious injuries on our roadways.”

“AAA Northeast congratulates the City of Peekskill, its entire police department, and the many communities participating in this prestigious annual awards program,” the AAA said in a news release.

Good Samaritan Sought After Aiding Fire Captain Struck by Car

The good samaritan who came to the aid of Peekskill Volunteer Firefighter Captain Thomas Walker after he was struck by a car is being sought by Walker and his wife, Elena Muniz-Walker.

Walker was struck by a car on Sept. 19 while on duty and directing traffic at a motor vehicle accident on Crompond Road. He was transported to Westchester Medical Center. He was released the following week and welcomed back home by Fire Chief James Seymour, volunteer firefighters, police officers, and local electeds.

In a Facebook post on Oct. 21, Muniz-Walker wrote that she and Walker were still searching for the “wonderful person that came to his aid” to get others at the scene to realize one of their own was injured.

“Both my husband and I would like to thank you,” Muniz-Walker said. “He will never forget your voice coming to him in kindness asking what you could do. You don’t have to be public about it, just send me a PM. He is slowly on the mend. I know your quick actions… were a key factor in getting him the help he needed.”

Local Electeds Endorse Democratic Slate for Mayor and Common Council

Local electeds joined the Peekskill Democratic City Committee in endorsing a slate of candidates for City of Peekskill mayor and common council.

Both Assemblywoman Dana Levenberg and state Sen. Pete Harckham released messages of endorsements on Friday, Oct. 24, in support of incumbent Mayor Vivian McKenzie and council candidates Beverley Chang, Charles DiGruccio, and Darren Rigger.

McKenzie is a business owner and retired insurance professional, Chang is a physician assistant, DiGruccio is an English language arts teacher in the Bronx, and Rigger is a small business owner and community advocate.

“Vivian’s steady, experienced leadership has guided Peekskill through real challenges, from strengthening the city’s finances to making city hall more accessible and responsive,” Levenberg stated. “Her dedication and experiences are exactly what Peekskill needs to keep moving forward. Darren, Beverley, and Charles bring fresh perspectives, hard work, and heart to the table. Together, they’ll be an excellent team for Peekskill’s future.”

In a video posted to social media, Sen. Harckham echoed Levenberg’s message.

“During her time as mayor, Vivian has been an amazing partner,” Harckham said. “She’s brought back record investment into the city, created affordable housing and opportunities for our young people. And along with her slate of Beverley Chang, Darren Rigger, and Charles DiGruccio, the Peekskill Dems will continue to make Peekskill more affordable and an amazing place to live, work, and raise our families.”

The pair of announcements came days after U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler endorsed Republican candidates for the council: Garrett Dowd, an attorney, and Elena Muniz-Walker, a former director of product development engineering for an international manufacturer.

McKenzie’s challenger for mayor is independent Ramon Fernandez, a councilman, as well as a taxi operator and driver. 

Election day is on Tuesday, Nov. 4, with polls open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. The early voting period began Saturday, Oct. 25, and ends Sunday, Nov. 2. For more information, read the Peekskill Herald’s voting guide by clicking here.

Peekskill Restaurant Participating in Hudson Valley Restaurant Week

Apropos, a Michelin-listed restaurant in the City of Peekskill, is one of 60 Westchester restaurants participating in the Fall 2025 Hudson Valley Restaurant Week running Oct. 27 through Nov. 9.

The seasonal celebration highlights the diverse cuisines and easy-to-reach dining destinations across Westchester — spanning more than 60 restaurants in 24 cities, towns, and villages, a press release from the county said.

“Each fall, Hudson Valley Restaurant Week gives our local dining community an opportunity to thrive,” said Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins in a press release. “It’s more than a celebration of great food — it’s a boost for the small businesses, farmers, and hospitality professionals who make Westchester’s economy so vibrant. I invite residents and visitors alike to dine local, explore new menus, and experience the creativity that defines our region’s culinary scene.”

At all locations, diners can “savor fresh, delicious fare” from Oct. 27 through Nov. 9 with prix-fixe lunches and dinners priced at $24.95, $29.95, $39.95, or $44.95 (tax, beverages and gratuity not included).

A complete list of restaurants and menus can be found here. Reservations are suggested as space fills quickly.

City Unveils Public Art in Front of the Field Library

There’s a new sculpture exhibited in front of the Field Library.

Those looking to borrow a book or head to court will notice the Peekskill Arts Council’s first new acquisition, the “Pierced Figure.”

The small steel sculpture, installed with help from Peekskill’s Department of Public Works staff, was produced in 1979 by late Peekskill resident and renowned metal sculptor Al Landzberg. It was donated by his daughter Carol Landzberg and son-in-law Charles Newman. It was rehabilitated in the Peekskill Youth Bureau garage by Highland Welding.

The City of Peekskill wrote on Oct. 23, “Abraham (Al) Landzberg lived in Peekskill and Yorktown for much of his successful career as a mechanical engineer and became an acclaimed metal sculptor after honing German blacksmith techniques in his home studio. ‘Pierced Figure’ was most recently exhibited in Yonkers and is now permanently displayed here [in] Peekskill.”

For more information and an interactive map of Peekskill’s art installations, click here.

DoT Sets Partial Closure of Bear Mountain Parkway This Week 

The New York State Department of Transportation is advising motorists of closures on Bear Mountain State Parkway.

Motorists can expect Bear Mountain State Parkway eastbound to close between Carhart Avenue in the City of Peekskill and U.S. Route 6 in Cortlandt Manor, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28, through Thursday, Oct. 30, to facilitate maintenance work, weather permitting.

Motorists should follow the posted detour.

TOWN OF CORTLANDT

Marriott Hotel in Cortlandt Moving Ahead

After finally acquiring the land, the developers of a planned five-story, 93-room Courtyard by Marriott hotel on Route 6 in Cortlandt are ready to move ahead.

The property, located at 2054 East Main St., just beyond Burger King, was purchased by the developer, Rainbow Group of Cortlandt Manor Inc. in Oneonta on Sept. 9 for $1.4 million from Ace Sport Realty Holding Corp. of Peekskill. The applicant of the project is Bilal Ahmad.

The Cortlandt Planning Board approved the project in September 2024; the project has received extensions that will now expire in September 2026. According to a letter to the Planning Board, the applicant received approval from the Town Board in May 2025 for the establishment of the Bear Mountain Sewer District, which will include the new hotel.

– Jim Roberts

           WESTCHESTER COUNTY

Healthcare Forum and Resource Fair in Ossining Oct. 27

Assemblywoman Dana Levenberg and state Sen. Pete Harckham will be hosting a bilingual healthcare forum and resource fair at the Ossining Public Library on Monday, Oct. 27, from 6 to 8 p.m.

The forum aims to help residents learn more and prepare in advance amid big changes to healthcare as a result of recent federal legislation.

Attendees will be joined by a panel of subject matter experts sharing vital information, particularly for those who are covered by medicaid or the Essential Plan, or those who purchased health insurance from New York State of Health. Local partners and care providers will also host tables sharing resources. 

Community partners include the state Department of Health, Hudson Valley Care Coalition, Westchester Disabled on the Move Inc., Westchester Medical Center Health Network, Neighbors Link, Open Door Care Network, the Hub, SunRiver Health, New York-Presbyterian Hudson Valley Hospital, Healthcare Education Project, and the Office of the State Long Term Care Ombudsman.

For more information about the free event or any other community issues, residents are encouraged to contact the office of Assemblywoman Levenberg at (914) 941-1111 or [email protected].