Dear neighbors: Happy New Year! As we begin 2026, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the work accomplished in 2025 and share the priorities that continue to guide my service: thoughtful planning, clear communication and fiscal responsibility.

In 2025, the Saranac Lake Village Board addressed a wide range of complex and often challenging issues. Below are several key areas where I focused my efforts — keeping a close eye on long-term impacts for our community.

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Capital Improvement Plan

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One of the most consequential actions taken this year was the adoption of Saranac Lake’s Capital Improvement Plan. This multi-year framework establishes a transparent, priority-based approach to investing in core infrastructure, including water and sewer systems, roads, sidewalks, parks and public buildings.

Projects are evaluated based on need, readiness, cost and community benefit. I helped lead the review process and supported final adoption to ensure the CIP functions as a living decision-making tool — guiding budgets, grant pursuits and project sequencing while aligning capital spending with adopted plans and long-term financial sustainability.

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Emergency services complex and fiscal accountability

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On one of the most complex issues facing the village, my focus remained on pairing support for improved, functional space for first responders with fiscal responsibility and a credible public process.

This work included advancing the requirement for an independent Tax Impact Analysis so residents receive clear, professional information about long-term tax impacts, operating costs and debt service before major decisions are made. Additional focus areas included public release of floor plans, cost estimates and scope changes; clear delineation of board oversight versus consultant authority; and consideration of scaled or alternative configurations, including separating police from fire and rescue.

Supporting first responders and protecting taxpayers must go hand in hand. We have to get this right.

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Length of Service Award Program

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Addressing recruitment and retention challenges for volunteer firefighters was an important priority this year. I initiated a formal feasibility study to explore a Length of Service Award Program, authorizing analysis only, so the Village can better understand program structures, costs and long-term impacts before any financial commitment is considered.

This approach reflects both respect for our volunteers and a commitment to fiscal responsibility.

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Cannabis sales tax grant program

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Ensuring new local revenue is reinvested back into the community through a clear and accountable process was another priority. I brought forward the Cannabis Sales Tax Grant Program to establish a transparent, competitive structure directing funds toward youth programs, seniors and recreation.

The program includes clear eligibility criteria, spending limits, reporting requirements and public oversight.

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Joint DOT working group

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To improve coordination on transportation projects, a formal working group was established between the village of Saranac Lake, the town of Harrietstown and the state Department of Transportation. This effort strengthens communication, alignment and long-term planning for projects that affect daily life in our community.

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Downtown streetscape design guidelines

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Bringing consistency and long-term planning to downtown investments remained a focus throughout the year. Comprehensive streetscape design guidelines were adopted to support future capital projects, grant applications and maintenance decisions — without obligating immediate expenditures.

Riverwalk placemaking

Long-planned improvements for the Riverwalk advanced this year to make the corridor more visible, navigable and better connected to downtown, neighborhoods and community spaces.

When complete, this effort will include light pole banners and gateway features, directional signage and interpretive panels, printed Riverwalk brochures and a comprehensive digital map highlighting connections and access points.

Mt. Pisgah sustainability

Mt. Pisgah was elevated as a model for small, community-based recreation through participation in a regional sustainability case study led by the Northern Forest Center in partnership with graduate students from Yale’s School of the Environment.

This work highlights the importance of continued investment in local, accessible recreation infrastructure and recognizes the volunteers and organizations who sustain Mt. Pisgah.

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Snow Angel Program

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Winter safety and accessibility emerged as a community-centered concern, particularly for seniors and residents with mobility challenges. The Snow Angel Program was launched as a neighbor-helping-neighbor initiative grounded in a simple belief: strong communities look out for one another.

In 2026, the guiding questions remain simple: What does the community want? What information do residents need to understand the decisions being made? And how do we get this right — not just for today, but for the long term?

This work would not be possible without dedicated village staff, volunteers and residents who show up and care deeply about this community. Thank you for staying engaged. Your voices matter, your participation matters and together we can keep moving Saranac Lake forward.

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Kelly Brunette is a village trustee and resident of Saranac Lake, focused on sustainable development and community well-being.