In 1952, Nathan Stillman’s uncle, Cal, donated, to the village, 44 acres of land which now makes up Roundtop Park. Sixty-five years later, Stillman inherited a 3.7-acre parcel, which sits in the middle of the park. He approached the board at that time and proposed extending the hiking trails into that parcel and eventually donate it to the village.

In a recent letter to Mayor James Kane, Stillman announced he’s prepared to gift the remainder of that land to complete Roundtop Park.

This would ensure, he wrote, that it continues to be a good hiking trail with magnificent views of the village, a waterfall, and a stone bridge. The property is currently zoned residential, but if it joins the rest of the park it could no longer be developed. Before the deed is turned over, a title search will need to be conducted to ensure Stillman owns the land.

In other business from the March 23 Village Board meeting:
Grant. The police department received $1000 to replace three taser units.

Events. The Donahue Committee will be holding the following events this year: A Hudson Valley SPCA benefit on June 6 (rain date June 13), a poetry event at the park on Aug. 1, stargazing in the evening on Oct. 17 (rain date Oct. 18), Pumpkin Chunkin on Nov. 7, and a Santa and train show on Dec. 12.

Kayak applications. The board approved the application and fees for a spot on the kayak racks which will be placed at Donahue Memorial Park later this spring. Applicants will be limited to one space and will receive a decal to adhere to their kayak to ensure it’s not transferable. A sliding fee was agreed upon by the board: non-residents will pay $300, town residents will be charged $250, and village residents will pay $200 for the season. Senior citizens, over the age of 65, will receive a $50 discount. The season will begin May 1 and end Oct. 31 contingent on the Department of Public Works replacing the chain link fence between the park and the Cornwall Yacht Club with a new wood one similar to that around Cornwall-on-Hudson Elementary School.

Retirement. The board accepted Don Bride’s letter of resignation after 35 years with the Water Department. Effective April 17, Bride will retire as the chief water plant operator.

Filming. Good news! “Best Medicine”, the FOX television series set in a fictional town (but really Cornwall-on-Hudson) was renewed for a second season and filming is expected to continue in the village contingent on a new contract.