CROTON-ON-HUDSON – The Village Board of Trustees in Croton-on-Hudson has adopted a new local law that gives priority to first responders, healthcare workers, and veterans for future affordable housing units.
Under the new law, occupational preferences for first responders and medical service employees are established. First responders receive the highest priority, followed by medical service employees, and then veterans of the US armed forces.
“Our first responders, healthcare workers, and veterans are there for us in our most critical moments. As housing costs rise, prioritizing affordable houses for these individuals is an investment in our future,” said Mayor Brian Pugh. “When we enable essential workers to put down roots alongside the neighbors they serve, we strengthen our community and ensure Croton-on-Hudson serves those who serve us.”
“Over the past few decades, more and more members of the Croton-on-Hudson Fire Department have moved outside the first district due to the lack of affordable housing opportunities,” said Fire Chief Chris Colombo. “Requiring developers to set aside a certain portion of new units for first responders is a welcome step in ensuring the sustainability of the all-volunteer Croton-on-Hudson Fire Department.”
“At Croton EMS, we have seen a significant rise in call volume since the COVID-19 pandemic. Codifying affordable housing preferences for first responders will provide an opportunity for our members who ae part of our very active youth corps to stay in the village and use their training to help residents in need,” said EMS department head Philip Dinkler.
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