By Alberto Gilman
Town of Newburgh Supervisor Gil Piaquadio has announced his bid for re-election, seeking another term in the 2025 election cycle. He is currently the sole candidate for the supervisor position.
Piaquadio, a town resident of more than 35 years, has raised four children with his wife. He has an extensive background in security, having worked part-time for more than 32 years with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and operating two security companies.
Piaquadio began his political career in 2003 when he was first elected as a town councilman. He was re-elected in 2007 and 2011, serving multiple four-year terms. In 2012, he was named deputy supervisor. He became acting supervisor in March 2014 following the departure of former Supervisor Wayne Booth. Piaquadio was elected to fill the vacancy in November 2014 and has since won re-election, serving consecutive terms.
In his re-election announcement, Piaquadio cited numerous accomplishments during his tenure, crediting collaboration with the town board. The current board includes Councilmen Scott Manley, Paul Ruggiero, Anthony LoBiondo and Jim Politi, who joined this year to fill the seat of late Councilwoman Elizabeth Greene. Greene, who passed away last spring, had served alongside Piaquadio for many years.
Piaquadio highlighted several achievements, including:
• Hudson Plaza Acquisition: The town obtained 21 Hudson Plaza, a 7,500-square-foot office building donated by owner Dr. Victor Rendano. It now houses the town’s Code Compliance Department.
• Anchorage Property Purchase: The town acquired 20 acres on the Hudson River, including a well capable of producing 50,000 gallons of water per day for potential future use. No development plans have been finalized.
• Desmond Estate Acquisition: With the help of William Kaplan, the town secured the Desmond Estate on Albany Post Road from Mount Saint Mary College, preserving it for adult education and community programs.
• Resorts World Hudson Valley Casino: The casino, located at the Newburgh Mall, generates annual revenue for the town and serves as an economic anchor for the area.
• Recreation Center Construction: A 35,000-square-foot recreation center is being built at Chadwick Lake Park using grants and other revenue sources, without property tax funding. The center is expected to open in late 2025.
Piaquadio said he is motivated to remain in office to see the recreation center project completed and operational. He also hinted at negotiations for another community asset, though details have yet to be finalized.