Dutchess County Government

Congratulations to all the teachers who were nominated by students and their families as Classroom Champions for the positive impact they have on their school communities! This initiative is just one of the many ways to recognize and thank our teachers for all they do to go above and beyond to support their students and create welcoming, engaging learning environments.

To view the list of honorees and learn more about the Classroom Champion initiative, visit: www.dutchessny.gov/classroomchampions

🇺🇸 Dutchess County welcomed 35 new American citizens today, as County Clerk Brad Kendall administered the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony held at Dover High School. Surrogate’s Court Judge Hon. Michael G. Hayes presided over the proceedings, and County Legislator Andrew House delivered the keynote address. Congratulations to all our new citizens! 🇺🇸

With the massive fire at Hudson Heritage, we have gotten questions regarding air quality and asbestos. Dutchess County Department of Health has been coordinating with New York State Departments of Environmental Conversation (DEC), Health (DOH) and Labor (DOL) and shares the following information:

QUESTION: Where can I find information about air quality?
ANSWER: Air quality is measured at various locations by the EPA, NYSDEC and other community partners. Monitoring data is available at https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/air-quality/monitoring

QUESTION: Where can I find information about exposure to smoke from fires?
ANSWER: NYS DOH provides information about tips when air quality is unhealthy, symptoms, and when to speak to a health care provider online at https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/outdoors/air/smoke_from_fire.htm

QUESTION: What is done to control the spread of asbestos fiber?
ANSWER: By wetting the structure and maintaining a perimeter around the area, the fire departments control the spread of asbestos during the fire.

For other health-related or symptoms questions, please contact your health care provider. For questions about air quality monitoring and results, contact NYSDEC Region 3 at (845) 256-3035.

Dutchess County is offering scholarships for income-eligible families to attend summer camp at Camp Nooteeming in Pleasant Valley. The scholarships, available through the County’s Division of Youth Services, cover full camp costs and will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

The day camp provides children ages 3½ to 15 a fun, outdoor summer experience at Camp Nooteeming, with activities like swimming, hiking, crafts, and games during three two-week weekday sessions from June 29th to August 7th. Learn how to apply today: https://www.dutchessny.gov/Departments/County-Executive/Dutchess-County-Opens-Applications-for-Free-Summer-Camp-at-Camp-Nooteeming.htm

Smoke from the massive fires at the former Hudson River Psychiatric Center in the Town of Poughkeepsie is a concern for those with respiratory conditions or other medical conditions. Read this important safety information about smoke from fires from the New York State Department of Health:
https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/outdoors/air/what_to_know.htm

We are grateful to all of the firefighters and first responders who have been on scene all day at a massive fire scene at the former Hudson River Psychiatric Center in Poughkeepsie. Dutchess County Emergency Response, including the Fire Investigation Team, has been on site with the many fire departments who have responded from across Dutchess and Ulster County. Multiple buildings have been impacted and response will continue well through the night. We are very grateful that there was no loss of life or serious injuries. Thank you again to all those who have been and continue to be on the scene - be safe!!

Hundreds of older adults enjoyed a healthy and tasty lunch; listened to live music; connected with County staff, service providers, and local officials; and spent a wonderful day catching up with old friends old and making new ones as our Dutchess County Office for the Aging's Summer Picnic Series came to Maurer Geering Park in Fishkill.

Next Wednesday, the OFA's Summer Picnic Series continues at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck. You can find the full 2026 picnic schedule at dutchessny.gov/ofapicnics.

The Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response is on scene at the former Hudson River Psychiatric Center supporting the Fairview Fire District and mutual aid partners who are operating at a significant, escalating structure fire.

Expect heavy smoke in the area. Hudson Heritage Plaza is closing to support firefighting operations. Please avoid the area until further notice.

Tomorrow our Health Department is hosting a blood drive with the American Red Cross from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A single blood donation can help save up to 3 lives. Be a hero and share the gift of life. All eligible donors will receive a $15 e-gift card plus a coupon for a free pint of ice cream at Stewarts Shops! We encourage you to share the gift of life.