Gouverneur CSD adopts addendum to school safety plan

by Rachel Hunter

On September 22, the Gouverneur Central School District convened a public hearing to address the proposed cardiac arrest addendum to its District-Wide School Safety Plan—a vital update mandated by Education Law and Public Health Law. The session underscored the district’s commitment to student safety and emergency preparedness.

Gouverneur CSD Superintendent of Schools Jackie Kelly said the following: “As I shared in August when the Board first approved the district-wide safety plan, recent amendments to State Law regarding cardiac arrest procedures and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) require policies and procedures for response to sudden cardiac arrest to be included in the building level emergency response plans for the 2025-26 school year. Those plans are modified each year by the building level safety teams and are not shared publicly. Amendments to Education Law regarding AED equipment, maintenance and signage, and school safety training regarding cardiac emergency response plans and district-wide safety plans are also expected to be in place by January 20, 2026. These new requirements for the development of a cardiac emergency response plan formalize and embed within district-wide school safety plans and building level emergency response plans pre-existing emergency protocols to respond to sudden cardiac arrests and other life-threatening emergencies. So, basically, we are being required to formalize and put in writing the procedures we currently have in place regarding cardiac arrest. Therefore, tonight, I have shared the cardiac emergency response plan addendum to be included in the district-wide school safety plan. You’ll notice that this is a very general overview of the actual plan that will be included in the building level safety plans. I will be asking the Board later in the meeting tonight to approve the addendum to the safety plan, so I can submit it to the State by the deadline of October 1.”

There were no comments from the public or from the Board of Education members. Board President David Fenlong noted that the “Section X Sudden Cardiac Arrest Preparedness – Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP)” would be posted online at www.gcsk12.org.

The plans reads as follows: “Purpose : In compliance with Education Law §2801-a(n) (Desha’s Law) and Public Health Law §917, the Gouverneur Central School District has established a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) to ensure a prompt, coordinated, and effective response to incidents of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) or similar life-threatening emergencies occurring on any school site or at any school-sponsored event, including athletic programs. This section provides the district-wide framework for cardiac emergency preparedness and response, to be supplemented by building-specific CERP annexes within each Building-Level Emergency Response Plan. Building-level annexes must include venue-specific response protocols for all athletic facilities and off-site events, identifying AED locations, access routes, and trained personnel coverage.

“Policy Statement: The Gouverneur Central School District will maintain a district-wide CERP aligned with the American Heart Association’s (AHA) evidence-based core elements. The plan shall be reviewed annually by the Gouverneur Central School District Safety Team and approved by the Board of Education. Each building shall develop and maintain a venue-specific CERP annex that conforms to the standards established in this section and follows the NYSED functional annex format requirements for Building-Level Emergency Response Plans.

“Core Components: Cardiac Emergency Response Team (CERT): Minimum of 5 trained responders or 10% of building staff, whichever is greater. Roles may include CPR provider, AED retriever, 911 caller, EMS liaison, and crowd control.

“CPR/AED Training Requirements: The district-wide school safety team may provide first aid, CPR, and AED training for relevant staff, including members of building-level emergency response teams.

“AED Placement and Maintenance: AEDs located to allow retrieval and deployment within 3 minutes from any location on campus; clearly marked, unlocked during events, maintained per manufacturer guidelines; maintenance and inspection logs kept at each building with the building Nurses.

Communication Protocols: Internal – CERT activation and role assignments; External – Immediate EMS activation (call 911) and coordination with responding agencies.

“Practice Drills: At least one annual CERP drill per building, including AED retrieval and CPR initiation and measurement of time from collapse recognition to AED application, with a goal of 3 minutes or less; drill reviews documented in after-action reports.

“Continuous Improvement: Annual review of the plan and post-incident/debrief updates to procedures. An after-action report will be completed within 24 hours of any cardiac emergency or drill and forwarded to the Safety Team for review and follow-up actions.

“EMS Coordination: The Gouverneur Central School District Safety Team and building administrators will coordinate with local EMS to integrate CERP procedures into community responder protocols, including site orientation and AED location information. This coordination will occur at least annually and will include sharing updated AED maps, site access points, and any changes in CERT composition or building layout.

“Recordkeeping and Reporting: CPR/AED training records will be maintained by Human Resources. AED maintenance records will be maintained by Facilities. Drill and incident documentation will be retained by the building administrator and forwarded to the Safety Team.”

Later in the regular school board meeting on Sept. 22, the Board officially adopted the addendum to the 2025–26 School Safety Plan, titled “Section X: Sudden Cardiac Arrest Preparedness – Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP),” for submission to the State Education Department as presented. The motion was made by Vice President Todd Bates, seconded by Board Member Laurie Roberts. The motion carried with full support of the Gouverneur CSD Board of Education. There was no further discussion on the matter.

In other news: The Gouverneur CSD Board of Education welcomed its new Student Board Representative, Ashlyn Besaw, for the 2025-26 school year. Gouverneur CSD Supt. Kelly said, “Welcome, Ashlyn, we are happy to have you.” Supt. Kelly reported that GHS Senior Ashlyn Besaw currently serves as the Student Senate President. She is an active member of the Varsity Club and National Honor Society, and participates in three sports, soccer, basketball, and softball. “Ashlyn’s leadership and involvement reflect her strong commitment to both academics and athletics,” Supt. Kelly said. “Ashlyn will be here this year to share all of the great things that are happening with our students here at the Gouverneur High School and answer any questions that we might have in order to gain a better understanding of the perspectives of our student body. “I want to thank you for joining us and look forward to our relationship which makes all of us better, stronger together,” Board President Fenlong said. Much appreciation was extended to Ashlyn Besaw for her willingness to serve as the Student Representative on Board of Education.

In the Wildcat News Report, Gouverneur CSD Executive Director of Operations & Personnel Cory Wood gave the Board of Education a visual update on the district’s capital project’s progress at the Gouverneur Middle School and the Gouverneur High School.

The Board ratified Memorandum of Agreement #7 between the Gouverneur Central School District and the Gouverneur Education Association, updating club classifications in Appendix A. The Drama Club for grades 7 and 8 was reclassified from Class C to Class B, the Senior High Fall Play from Class E to Class B, and a new position—Drama Club 7th & 8th Assistant—was added under Class F.

Appointments included the following extra-curricular advisors for the 2025–26 school year: Brandon Griffin for Drama Club 7–8 (Class B, previously Class C), Michael Bason for Senior High Fall Play (Class B, previously Class E), Polly Sergel as FFA Assistant (Class F), and Catie Yablonski as Drama Club 7–8 Assistant (Class F).

Under extra duty assignments, Shari Ronas and Ken Nicholas were appointed as instructors for Middle School Afterschool Tutoring.

Two long-term substitute appointments were approved: Kathleen A. Buell, holding permanent NYS certification in Nursery, Kindergarten & Grades 1–6, will replace Brittany L. Lewis during her leave of absence beginning on or about September 23, 2025. Betty L. Hall, certified in Music and Pre-K–6, will replace Bridget M. Capito during her leave of absence beginning on or about September 25, 2025. Both appointments are non-probationary and set at the established rate for 25+ days.

Student workers Electa Fitzgerald and Arianna Wood were appointed to the Buildings & Grounds department for the 2025–26 school year, pending completion of all requirements.

Cory Young was appointed as Webmaster for the 2025–26 school year.

The Board accepted the retirements of Building Maintenance Workers Jeffrey B. Hale and Daniel R. Erdman, both effective March 31, 2026.

The Board approved the Fire Safety Inspection Report dated June 20, 2025. All listed items were corrected by June 27, 2025, and the district has received the Certificate of Occupancy.

The Board approved a request for two teachers to attend the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) 2025 Annual Meeting & Exposition Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, scheduled for October 16–18, 2025.

The Board also approved a request for two teachers to attend the 9th Annual Conference of The Reading League in Chicago, Illinois, taking place October 8–10, 2025.

The Board approved a tax roll correction for the Town of Gouverneur parcel 173.066-2-24 to address a clerical error involving an incorrect exemption. The corrected tax amount was adjusted from $776.47 to $362.35.

During Public Comment, GMS Drama Club Advisor Brandon Griffin rose to extend appreciation to Board for their support. “On behalf of myself, Mr. Bason, and Ms. Yablonski, thank you for approving our increases. We deeply appreciate that, and we deeply appreciate the support the Board has been showing these last few years, especially to the Arts. It’s definitely good to see thar Gouverneur is not just a one-track pony when it comes to sports – and that the Arts are truly making a comeback in our area.” Mr. Griffin also reported that the GMS Drama Club would present the musical, Beauty & The Beast Junior, in mid-November. Approximately 110 students from GMS Grades 5–8 and St. James School auditioned, with around 50 students ultimately cast in the production. “We are really excited to put on the show, and to continue the Arts for our district,” Mr. Griffin said. “Thank you for your continued support.”

The Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education will hold its next regular meeting on Monday, October 20, 5:30 p.m., in the GHS Auditorium. For more information, visit www.gcsk12.org.

NY Forward Controversy Fuels Public Outcry in Gouverneur

by Rachel Hunter

At its Sept. 16 meeting, the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees faced a wave of pointed criticism from residents deeply concerned about the NY Forward process.

The atmosphere in the municipal courtroom was charged as community members demanded transparency, equity, and meaningful inclusion—challenging what they saw as a flawed approach to downtown revitalization. While some acknowledged the program’s potential, many questioned how projects were being selected and whether local voices were truly being heard. The call was clear: restore trust, honor local values, and ensure that revitalization reflects the needs of the people.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that the Village of Gouverneur was awarded $4.5 million through the NY Forward program as part of Round 3 of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative—an ambitious state effort aimed at transforming rural downtowns into vibrant, livable hubs. The announcement, made in March by Governor Kathy Hochul, positioned Gouverneur as a North Country recipient of this competitive funding. The award was heralded as a turning point for the village, promising investment in housing, business development, and public spaces. But, as recent board meetings have shown, the path from promise to progress is far from smooth – as residents demanded clarity and accountability.

The regular monthly meeting of the Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees was held on Sept. 16, a mere eight days before the second public open house was held on Wednesday, September 24 at the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center. The meeting was called to order by Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall at 6 p.m. in the municipal courtroom. Following the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence, Mayor McDougall called upon Village Attorney Henry Leader of Case & Leader LLP in Gouverneur to give an opening prayer. Mr. Leader also serves as Deacon at the St. James Catholic Church in Gouverneur. The prayer was recited as follows: “Dear God, In these times of uncertainty and division, we ask that You would bless us with security and unity. Please protect us and give us wisdom to make prudent decisions that will benefit our Village. Please send your Spirit upon us to grant us tolerance and mutual respect for those times when we disagree. Let there be civility and clarity in all of our discussions. Finally, we thank you for the gifts of democracy, free speech, peace and all of your blessings – especially those that we don’t realize or that we take for granted. In Christ’s name, Amen.”

The public concern over Gouverneur’s NY Forward process intensified following a social media post in late-August by Village Trustee Troy Besaw after the Gouverneur NY Forward Local Planning Committee’s Work Session Recommendations were made public. The post sparked widespread discussion and prompted residents to seek clarity on how project decisions were unfolding. For many, it underscored the urgency of community involvement and raised questions. Those concerns surfaced during both the Sept. 8 Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce meeting and the Sept. 16 Village Board meeting.

Village of Gouverneur Mayor Ron McDougall, who serves as co-chair of the Gouverneur NY Forward Local Planning Committee (LPC) alongside SUNY Canton President Zvi Szafran, gave the following update: “NY Forward core team was yesterday. I’m happy to report that there’s eight more applications in. I know that there was some talk, but no one has dropped out or pulled their application. There’s handouts (for the public open house on Sept. 24) at the entrance tonight. I know I am going to repeat some of this for the people who were at the Chamber meeting. Unfortunately, it was one of my worst Chamber meetings because some people there – it wasn’t about the NY Forward program. They were ridiculing some other businesses in Gouverneur, and businesses don’t need to be ridiculed. At least one of the owners, I apologized for the Chamber to him…”

Mayor McDougall also took time during the village board meeting to explain to the public that the LPC was formed to include a diverse mix of local and regional leaders, stakeholders, and community representatives. In addition to the co-chairs McDougall and Szafran, the LPC members include the following: Gouverneur CSD Superintendent of Schools Jackie Kelly, Cives Steel Company Regional Sales Manager Bart Kidwell, Central Fill Manager (Kinney Drugs) Brooke Plowman, Small Town Supply Ace Hardware and Jumbo’s Diner Owner Clark Porter, Gouverneur Cargill Inc. Production Supervisor Greta Schrader, Town of Gouverneur Supervisor David Spilman, Jr. The LPC is supported by Village of Gouverneur Deputy Clerk Kristina Ayen. According to the NY Forward framework, LPC members are tasked with brainstorming ideas, guiding consultants, reviewing planning materials, and prioritizing proposed projects. The selection process aims to balance expertise with community insight gathered via various public engagement opportunities.

During Mayor’s Updates, Mayor McDougall noted the unusual appointment process for Gouverneur’s NY Forward LPC, stating that individuals were required to be named to the committee without prior notice or consent. “When it came about the LPC, I was advised to select between five and seven members, so I did that - but based upon the criteria that they laid out. It was regimented to find people that fit the mold. But it was strictly on the QT. I could not actually ask them. But I submitted the five names to the state. And then they came back and recommended six. It just happened that the breakdown was three men, three women. And then, in a week or 10 days, they did a background check on all six of those people. Apparently Dr. Zvi and myself, they didn’t need to do a background. But nevertheless, they did. And then once they approved it, I had to go about asking the people, sometimes more than once, to volunteer to serve. And I am sure there is at least one or two of them that are having second thoughts about that, but I appreciate their service, whether anybody else does or not. I think the board – or most of the board – appreciates their service. I know I do. If you know any of them, you ought to thank them. That’s how it came about. It’s a strange process. Don’t tell me, just send a name in. I thought it was strange… But it is their money, their rules, so we did it.”

At each meeting of Gouverneur’s LPC, the NY Forward preamble was read aloud. This featured a clear directive on the recusal process: members were expected to disclose any potential conflicts of interest and abstain from related discussions or decisions, reinforcing the initiative’s commitment to transparency and integrity. Yet despite these formal safeguards, concerns about the process persist among local residents – and were voiced during the Public Comment period at the village board meeting.

John “Scooter” Wetmore of Gouverneur said the following: “I want to shine a light on something. One day I was surfing the Internet. I saw Troy’s posting of a document that outlined some of the NY Forward projects that had been approved. I was absolutely shocked and appalled, and my comment was: This is outward conflict of interest, corruption and at the very best shows a complete lack of ethics amongst everyone involved in it. Most of the projects there were either projects for people that were on the committee or a relative of somebody who was on the committee. It is just ridiculous. I saw that, and my recommendation would be to fire everybody on the committee, take all the people that had been approved and they lose it, and each one of those people from that point forward can never apply for government grants again. You’ve got the village attorney, for God’s sakes is getting money. I received a call from one of the members of the LPC. He asked me if I had any interest in getting a grant. I told Jerry Peck to take it way back when he was doing it. Mayor, on August 2, I sent you an email explaining the way I feel about New York State, NY Forward and the entire program. I wouldn’t want a penny from those people.”

“And the governor, don’t forget that,” Mayor McDougall said.

“Absolutely,” Mr. Wetmore said. “As far as I am concerned, I want nothing from New York State because I don’t agree with most of their policies. But that is aside. This gentleman asked me if I had any interest, and I simply referred to that document. I said, “Look, I’ll tell you the same thing I told the mayor. I have absolutely no interest in taking any government funding whatsoever because anytime you take something, it comes with strings. And I am not willing to sell my freedom to do as I wish for any amount of money. So anyway, I said that my official recommendation to the mayor was to take the grant and send it back to Albany and say: “Thanks, but no thanks. We don’t agree with NY Forward. We don’t agree with the pro-housing thing, which requires zoning changes so that you can force low-income multi-dwelling units in residential neighborhoods that are right now zoned for single-family occupancy. Want no part of that. Another thing with NY Forward is all this decarbonization. Want no part of that. After I told him that my recommendation is to send the money back, he said, “Well, we can’t do that. I certainly don’t want that money to go back to Albany because I am planning on getting a bunch of it for myself. And this was a person on the committee. Now if you are on a committee to hand out government funds, you should not have the ability to take any for yourself, your relatives, your family or any government official. We’ve got a sitting judge in the town and village of Gouverneur has applied for grant money. We’ve got some of your very relatives that applied for grant money that looks like it has been approved…”

Mayor McDougall said, “If I can intercede for a minute, your two minutes must be up. Nothing has been approved. This is a long ways from done... Who is next?”

“Can I interject?” asked Village of Gouverneur Deputy Mayor Charles Newvine. The floor was given to Deputy Mayor Newvine to address the public. “The Village of Potsdam got a grant for Downtown Revitalization in 2019. They haven’t even started theirs yet. Right, so it is not like they are breaking ground tomorrow. The process of this grant is quite detailed too. I am sure that everyone knows that and can look that all about. We have applied for this grant three times, and have been denied twice. How this grant works… You don’t just put Gouverneur on a piece of paper and throw it in a hat for grant money. It has to be quite detailed as to what you are going to do and how you are going to do it and where you are going to do it. Now everybody knows that this thing is, in layman’s terms, from Church to Trinity, Jumbo’s to Jreck’s. You are restricted where it can be used too. And that’s something that State did. And then, after you meet that criteria, it’s not like they say, “Here’s a $4.5 million check. Put it in the general fund and give it to whoever you want.” The LPC, that process was a little more difficult than it should be. But just like anything that we did here today, you can abstain from voting… There is a way to recuse yourself from voting on any project that you have any interest in. That is how the grant works.”

Looking at Mr. Wetmore, he said, “Like you said in the beginning, I don’t like a lot of stuff that NYS does, but they came in with $4.5 million. Also the person that applies for this grant money has to give detailed information (banking, personal information) and then they have to get financed, 100 percent of the cost of that project, in hopes that they get reimbursed by the State. Not a lot of people in the community can do that, especially if you are restricting where it can be anyway. Right, so if you want a million dollars in grant money, if you are applying for a million dollars, then you have to find a bank that will give you a loan for a million dollars and then you’ve got to hope that the State is going to give you 75 percent of that back. Not a lot of people can do that. So you are restricting it. Granted, I agree with you 100 percent about the people on the board, but New York State is in charge of all of that. I don’t necessarily agree with it. I think the optics look bad. But I don’t want to see New York State say that they are not coming back to Gouverneur again… I wish that the State would say, “Here’s $4.5 million. Do what you want with it.” But it is quite strict as to what you can do. That is just my opinion.”

Mayor McDougall asserted that the NY Forward documents have been swiftly and transparently made available online, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to public access and accountability.

Village Trustee Troy Besaw then said the following: “My thing is, folks, I think this thing stinks. It stinks to high heaven. I am going to interject with Scooter. Now, from what I read, the Mayor had a hand in the places this grant could go. Isn’t that correct, Mayor?”

“The idea was to enhance the application, which meant restricting the footprint,” Mayor McDougall said. “So you did have a hand in restricting the footprint,” Trustee Besaw said. “Yes, along with our consultant and the State,” Mayor McDougall said. “So you did, and then you handpicked individuals to sit on the committee,” Trustee Besaw said. “Based on the criteria, set by the State,” Mayor McDougall said. Trustee Besaw then asked: “Now, which came first the chicken or the egg? Did the people get picked for the committee before they filled out the grant paperwork, or after they got picked for the committee? Were the individuals in question seated on the committee and then were able to fill out grant paperwork to enhance their properties, their in-laws’ properties, or however that shakes out?” After some discussion, it was noted by Town of Gouverneur Supervisor Dave Spilman, Jr. that the committee was seated before the Open Call For Projects period (June 17-July 31, 2025).

Trustee Besaw didn’t mince words. He challenged the room with a pointed question—“Does anybody have a problem with that?”—before condemning what he saw as a blatant conflict of interest: committee members applying for the very grant they were tasked with overseeing. “That looks horrible,” he said. In his view, every application submitted by committee members should be disqualified. Instead of pursuing questionable proposals, Besaw urged the board to focus on tangible improvements: repaving the stretch behind Kinney’s, installing better lighting and security cameras, and finally building a public restroom in the village park.

Deputy Mayor Newvine called for a return to public comment before firmly clarifying the limits of the NY Forward grant. Paving and sidewalks replacement projects, he explained, don’t qualify—funds must be used to visibly enhance and revitalize the downtown area in ways that attract people and improve aesthetics. The State sets strict guidelines on eligible uses. He noted that repaving the municipal parking lot and adding sidewalks alone would cost $4.9 million. Newvine encouraged residents to attend the upcoming Sept. 24 Public Open House. Village Trustee Floyd McAdam firmly stated that the issue had been unequivocally addressed from the outset—made crystal clear during the very first LPC meeting. “The list of the stuff you couldn’t do was longer than the list of what you could do,” Deputy Mayor Newvine said, continuing the discussion on the matter for several moments.

“If the State comes by 203 W. Main St., and says there are funds available, I’m applying,” Deputy Mayor Newvine said. “If you ask me to get on the board, I’d probably say no, especially after this. But any business that is in the scope of those things, they are crazy not to take this money.”

Trustee Besaw then said, “Let’s talk about it: What are we gaining for business?” Deputy Mayor Newvine said, “The property values in the area will increase. The total assessed value of the Village of Gouverneur will increase, which will lower taxes. The appearance of the community will be better, so when people drive by they will say, “Look at that nice new building.” Multiple people drive by and look at the park when it is lit up. If there’s new buildings that look nice here, maybe they will say, “This place looks nice. Let’s stop...” Property values in the area will go up because people’s properties look better.”

Emily Bush of Emily’s Flower Shop in Gouverneur questioned how certain project proposals would meaningfully enhance the downtown district. She voiced concern over grant dollars being funneled into apartment development, challenging whether such investments align with the community’s broader revitalization goals. Bush pointed out that property owners stand to profit from the grant, yet it remains unclear how those private gains will translate into public benefit or attract new businesses to Gouverneur.

“I would assume that if people live in the Village of Gouverneur, they are going to spend money in the Village of Gouverneur,” Deputy Mayor Newvine said. “That is a far reach, don’t get me wrong.”

“What I read about the NY Forward and the vision of it is to bring tourists,” Bush said. “These people who are going to live up in these apartments are not going to be considered tourists. If you think about the people that drive directly through Gouverneur, because they are driving out of town to go to dinner and a movie…”

After announcing that Emily Bush’s two minutes had concluded, Mayor McDougall turned to the room and asked, “Who’s next?”

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that, as part of its NY Forward pursuit, the Village of Gouverneur submitted an application dated October 2024 with an ambitious slate of projects aimed at sparking downtown revitalization. Once selected, the process shifted into a public planning phase, where both the original proposals and new ideas generated through local input during the Open Call for Projects (June 17-July 31) were reviewed by the Local Planning Committee and the State. This phase was intended to foster innovation, encourage collaboration, and refine a list of catalytic projects tailored to Gouverneur’s long-term goals. The Village of Gouverneur’s NY Forward application and meeting documents have been posted online for public perusal at gouverneurnyforward.com. Still, some residents viewed the initial application as a fixed roadmap, prompting concerns about transparency and meaningful inclusion.

Nancy Spilman of Gouverneur said the following: “Communication was not followed… I took everything off Facebook and decided to research and read 564 pages. My brother asked me to educate myself, so I did. Communication was not followed. So many people were shocked with this development alone, which enabled you to stack the deck. You are sitting here, saying that the applications were chosen after. Look at your October 2024 PowerPoint that you put out there. Every applicant that I put on Facebook is listed on that. So that is false. The deck has been stacked. The deck to your committee was stacked. I want to reiterate this: All of these people work hard in this town. I’m mad at the process. I’m not mad at the people. I am mad at the process that you enabled and you put in place for everybody that is related to the committee or a personal relationship was able to be there before July 31st. That is my issue. Had it been done right and the right process, I wouldn’t be upset. I want Gouverneur to have the grant money. I want these buildings bustling. I want the apartments filled. I want the back parking lot done. I wish you had gotten a grant for $100 million so you could get that parking lot done. I believe in this grant. I like every individual that was listed on there. I have no problems with the individuals. It’s the process. It was taken and it was incorrectly done. You just sat here and said it was done exact opposite of what the proof of October 2024 stated. I am just bringing that to the forefront.”

Deputy Mayor Newvine addressed the methods of communication employed throughout the NY Forward process. “But how did the Village communicate?” Spilman asked. “There were so many ways. I’ve got every way that it could have been communicated. There were so many ways. The Village wasn’t communicated. That’s what the irate is. The lack of following of the guidelines of the communication to stop the stacking of the deck… I hope to God this village flourishes. I really do. My mother believed in this. My brother believes in this. My whole family believes in this village. This process was just done wrong. I want everybody that applied that is on the committee, attached to the committee, and everything else to remove their application and let’s do it right. Let’s put all of that money into the municipality of this town so everybody is happy, not five people.”

“Thank you for your input,” Mayor McDougall said. “Anybody else?” Village Trustee Troy Besaw then proposed a sweeping reset—calling for the full replacement of the Local Planning Committee (LPC) and the dismissal of the submitted applications. The motion, however, failed to gain traction, as it received no second. “Then it is mute,” Mayor McDougall said. “Public comment is over. Thank you all for coming.”

The Village of Gouverneur Board of Trustees encouraged residents, business owners, and community members to attend two key events – a Public Open House (Sept. 24) and LPC #5 Meeting (Sept. 25). Both events were promoted as vital moments for public engagement. Coverage from these events will be included in an upcoming edition of the Gouverneur Tribune Press.

About NY Forward: NY Forward is a central component of the State's economic development efforts, working together with the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), to accelerate and expand the revitalization of New York's downtowns. NY Forward serves smaller communities with historic character that distinguishes them from the larger, more urban central business districts typically funded through DRI. NY Forward communities are walkable, less dense areas that serve the immediate local community, and are more local in nature - focusing on the immediately surrounding residential or rural agricultural centric development. Governor Kathy Hochul has committed $100 million for the third round of the NY Forward program. Each of the State’s ten Regional Economic Development Councils (REDCs) recommended two communities for NY Forward awards. In the North Country Region, Gouverneur and Keeseville were each the recipients of a $4.5 million award. NY Forward is led by the Department of State, in close partnership with Empire State Development, NYS Homes and Community Renewal and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority. The NY Forward process is being facilitated by a consultant team led by M.J. Engineering, Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Land Surveying, P.C. and supported by Andropogon, Hamlin Design Group, E.M. Pemrick & Company, and Captain Consulting. For more information, visit gouverneurnyforward.com.

Gouverneur CSD To Hold Public Hearing On Addendum to School Safety Plan

The Board of Education of the Gouverneur Central School District shall hold a public hearing on September 22, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in the High School Auditorium located at 133 East Barney Street, Gouverneur, NY. to discuss the proposed required cardiac arrest addendum to the District-Wide School Safety Plan.

In compliance with Education Law §2801-a(n) (Desha’s Law) and Public Health Law §917, the Gouverneur Central School District has established a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP) to ensure a prompt, coordinated, and effective response to incidents of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) or similar life-threatening emergencies occurring on any school site or at any school-sponsored event, including athletic programs.

The proposed addendum has been posted on our website for review and comments. The addendum is anticipated to be adopted and will be made part of the 2025-2026 District-Wide School Safety Plan.

The Public Hearing will begin at 5:30 p.m. and will be followed by the regular board meeting. The current Safety Plan can be found on the District Website: www.gcsk12.org. The public is welcome to submit any comments or questions prior to the Public Hearing by sending them to Tatia Z. Kennedy, District Clerk, at kennedy.tatia@gcsk12.org.

Gouverneur Seeks Public Feedback on Downtown Improvement Projects

The Village of Gouverneur and its NY Forward Local Planning Committee (LPC) invite residents, business owners, and community stakeholders to participate in a Public Open House to explore and provide feedback on potential downtown improvement projects through the NY Forward Program.

The Public Open House will take place on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at the Gouverneur Community Center, 4673 NY-58, Gouverneur. This interactive event will present potential projects and gather input to help the LPC identify the most impactful opportunities to recommend to New York State for funding consideration. All community members are encouraged to attend and share their perspectives. Family-friendly activities, including a kid’s table, will be available.

This is the second open house hosted by the Village as part of the NY Forward planning process. Community feedback is essential in shaping a vision for a stronger, more vibrant downtown. The LPC has been evaluating a number of project proposals for potential NY Forward funding consideration based on a series of evaluation criteria. The open house will be an opportunity for the public to review the proposed projects and provide feedback.

In addition, the LPC will hold what is anticipated to be its final meeting the next day, on Thursday, September 25, from 12:00 to 2:00 PM at the Gouverneur Community Center. This fifth meeting will focus on developing a final slate of projects for recommendation to New York State. The meeting is open to the public and will include an opportunity for public comments at the start.

For more information, please visit the Gouverneur NY Forward website at www.GouverneurNyForward.com.

NY Forward is a central component of the State’s economic development efforts, working together with the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), to accelerate and expand the revitalization of New York’s downtowns. NY Forward serves smaller communities with historic character that distinguishes them from the larger, more urban central business districts typically funded through DRI. NY Forward communities are walkable, less dense areas that serve the immediate local community, and are more local in nature - focusing on the immediately surrounding residential or rural agricultural centric development. Governor Kathy Hochul has committed $100 million for the third round of the NY Forward program. Each of the State’s ten Regional Economic Development Councils (REDCs) recommended two communities for NY Forward awards. In the North Country Region, Gouverneur and Keeseville were each the recipients of a $4.5 million award.

NY Forward is led by the Department of State, in close partnership with Empire State Development, NYS Homes and Community Renewal and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.

The Local Planning Committee (LPC) includes local and regional leaders, stakeholders, and community representatives. LPC members attend meetings at which they are asked to brainstorm ideas, provide direction to consultants, review planning products, prioritize actions, and evaluate potential projects. Village Mayor Ronald McDougall and Zvi Szafran, President of SUNY Canton and North Country Regional Economic Development Council member, are the Gouverneur LPC Co-Chairs.

The NY Forward process is being facilitated by a consultant team led by M.J. Engineering, Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Land Surveying, P.C. and supported by Andropogon, Hamlin Design Group, E.M. Pemrick & Company, and Captain Consulting.

Walk With A Doc returns to Gouverneur Fairgrounds on Sept. 13

by Rachel Hunter

North Country residents are encouraged to take part in a growing health initiative when Walk With A Doc returns to the Gouverneur Fairgrounds on Saturday, September 13 at 10 a.m. This community-centered event blends movement, conversation, and connection, offering participants a chance to engage directly with local healthcare professionals in a relaxed and welcoming setting. More than just a walk, it’s an opportunity to ask questions, share stories, and take meaningful steps toward better health—together.

Organized by the Community Health Center of the North Country in collaboration with the St. Lawrence County Public Health Department and the Bridge to Wellness initiative, Walk With A Doc invites individuals of all ages and abilities to join in a morning of fresh air and open dialogue. Each event begins with a brief health talk from a local provider, followed by a group walk where participants are encouraged to move at their own pace and engage in conversation with medical professionals and neighbors alike.

Set against the familiar backdrop of the Gouverneur Fairgrounds, the walk offers a unique blend of rural charm and accessible health education. Whether attendees are seeking advice, companionship, or simply a quiet moment to walk alongside others, the event serves as a reminder that wellness is not a solitary journey—it’s built through community, connection, and shared purpose.

Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press may recall that Walk With A Doc was founded in 2005 by Ohio cardiologist Dr. David Sabgir, who believed that meeting patients outside the clinic could inspire lasting lifestyle changes. What began as a local effort has since grown into a global movement, with chapters in hundreds of communities—including several across St. Lawrence County.

Locally, the program has flourished thanks to strong partnerships and enthusiastic participation. Events have been held at the Gouverneur CSD Middle School and the fairgrounds. Each walk is tailored to the needs of the community, with topics ranging from heart health and nutrition to mental wellness and chronic disease prevention.

Among the dedicated providers joining the September walk is Brittany Terpstra, PA, a physician assistant with the Community Health Center of the North Country. Terpstra is known for her compassionate care and her ability to connect with patients beyond the exam room. Her presence at Walk With A Doc reflects the program’s mission to break down barriers between providers and patients, creating a space where questions are welcomed and relationships are built. Whether she’s discussing preventive care or simply walking alongside a participant, Terpstra brings warmth, expertise, and encouragement to every step.

Walk With A Doc in Gouverneur is more than a wellness event—it’s a movement rooted in rural resilience, neighborly support, and the belief that health begins with connection. With future walks planned across the region, the message is clear: better health starts with a single step, and no one has to walk alone. The event is free and open to all. No registration is required. Just bring comfortable shoes and a willingness to walk, talk, and take part.

For more information, visit walkwithadoc.org or contact rbabowicz@chcnorthcountry.org. Let’s walk together, Gouverneur. See you at the fairgrounds.

NNYPF Fall Show, Swap Meet in Gouverneur canceled

by Rachel Hunter

The Northern New York Poultry Fanciers Fall Show and Swap Meet has been canceled for 2025 due to a scheduling conflict at the Gouverneur Fairgrounds.

It's a setback for those who take pride in cultivating strong lines and preserving heritage breeds—where every feather tells a story of careful selection, resilient bloodlines, and generational stewardship. Though tail feathers may droop this fall, the commitment to quality genetics and responsible breeding remains unshaken. Organizers look forward to future opportunities to spotlight the vibrant diversity and excellence that define the poultry community across the North Country and throughout the Northeast region.

For more information about the Northern New York Poultry Fanciers, contact Show Secretary Floyd Rood at (315) 379-9498.

GHA Antiques In The Park is Saturday

by Rachel Hunter

The Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary will host the 2025 Antiques In The Park on Saturday, August 23, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the Gouverneur Village Park.

Did you know? The hospital auxiliary has been active in the local community for nine decades. The Stephen B. VanDuzee Auxiliary was founded in 1929. This group operated continuously until 1947. At that time plans were underway for the new hospital and the administration felt that it would be detrimental to the fund drive for the Auxiliary to also be trying to raise money. After much deliberation, it was decided to discontinue the auxiliary.

In 1950 the hospital trustees asked that the final officers of the VanDuzee group meet and commence reorganization as Edward John Noble Hospital Auxiliary. Concern was expressed by the auxiliary members involved that greater need would occur due to the larger size of the hospital. It was noted that the largest amount of money raised in any one year from 1929 – 1947 had been $2300.

On June 20, 1950, a meeting was held, and committees were appointed to get the new auxiliary operational. On July 13, 1950, the day prior to the dedication of the new hospital, a new constitution (our current by-laws) was adopted, and new officers were installed. They were as follows: President Mrs. Joseph F. McAllister: Vice-President Mrs. Norman Donald: Secretary Mrs. Mason Smith; and Treasurer Miss Pearl Orvis. It is interesting to note that the sum of $65.79 was carried over from the books of the VanDuzee Auxiliary.

The new Auxilians worked very hard preparing for the dedication ceremony and sold refreshments and commemorative copies of the Tribune Press on that day. On the day of the ceremony, 331 people joined the group – 300 women, 27 men and 4 life members.

The hospital opened on August 8, 1950, the birthday of Edward John Noble, the principal benefactor of the new facility.

In October of 1950 a major membership drive was held, recruiting an additional 580 members bringing the total to 911. In addition to regular membership, the group also formed a Junior Auxiliary with its own officers and directors. Group memberships were accepted of any clubs wishing to support the hospital.

Beginning on January 1, 2014, EJ Noble Hospital dissolved, and the facility became known as Gouverneur Hospital. Thus, EJ Noble Hospital Auxiliary became known as Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary.

The Auxiliary has undertaken many fundraising events and projects over the years for the hospital and former nursing home. These included: cash donations, equipment purchases, building renovations, sponsorship of a candy striper program, and in the early years, establishment of a patient aid fund to help needy families handle medical bills. Purchases ranged from bibs for the nursery, stickers for child patients in the emergency room, to big ticket items such as a van for the nursing home and the laparoscopic cholecystectomy equipment for the operating room. In addition to direct help to the medical facility, the group also gave scholarships to students in medical related fields.

The GHA Antiques In The Park will be held rain or shine in the Gouverneur Village Park this Saturday, August 23. The Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary’s Antiques In The Park (AITP) fundraising event was first introduced in the summer of 1994. The Gouverneur Village Park will be humming with activity during the 2025 Antiques In the Park. There will be antique vendors, silent auction, bake sale, and raffle. There will be a drawing to determine the winner of the coveted Picture Frame filled with $100 cash and $100 worth of NYS scratch-off tickets. Raffle tickets are $2 each or three for $5. If you would like tickets and have not been able to locate an auxiliary member selling them at local events or establishments, please call GHA President Kim Halpin at 315-287-1197.

Hammond In Person Boating Safety Class is August 21-22

Attention all recreational boat operators. As of January 1, 2025, all boat operators regardless of your age, are required by New York State to complete a boater safety course before operating their vessel. “Boat America” fulfills this requirement and will be presented by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, in Hammond at the Hammond Fire Station, 300 Lake Street, August 21-22, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. You must attend both nights. You will receive your card and certificate at the end of the class.

Tuition is $35.00 per person with family and group rates and youth scholarships available. Preregistration is required. To register send your name, email address and phone number to cgauxogdensburg@gmail.com. For information about additional classes, call 315-605-8041.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the U.S. Coast Guard and supports the Coast Guard in nearly all mission areas. The Auxiliary was created by Congress in 1939. For more information, please visit www.cgaux.org.

Free school supplies for students at Gouverneur CSD

The Gouverneur Central School District will provide all elementary, middle, and high school students with free school supplies for the 2025-26 school year, Gouverneur CSD Superintendent of Schools Jackie Kelly reported this week. In the past, teachers have provided families with school supply lists prior to the start of each school year. Once again, this year, families will not have to assume any of the costs related to purchasing school supplies. The district has elected to use a portion of the general fund to purchase school supplies for all students. The school supplies have been ordered and are expected to arrive in time for the first week of school. The supplies will be distributed to students upon arrival.

Gouverneur Hosts Third Local Planning Committee Meeting for NY Forward

The Village of Gouverneur, along with its state partners, is pleased to announce the third Local Planning Committee (LPC) meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 6, at 12:00 PM at the Gouverneur Community Center at 4673 NY-58, Gouverneur, NY. The meeting will focus on introducing the projects submitted through the Open Call for Projects. It is open to the public and will include an opportunity for public comment at the conclusion of the meeting. For more information, please visit the Gouverneur NY Forward website at www.GouverneurNyForward.com.

NY Forward is a central component of the State's economic development efforts, working together with the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), to accelerate and expand the revitalization of New York's downtowns. NY Forward serves smaller communities with historic character that distinguishes them from the larger, more urban central business districts typically funded through DRI. NY Forward communities are walkable, less dense areas that serve the immediate local community, and are more local in nature - focusing on the immediately surrounding residential or rural agricultural centric development. Governor Kathy Hochul has committed $100 million for the third round of the NY Forward program. Each of the State’s ten Regional Economic Development Councils (REDCs) recommended two communities for NY Forward awards. In the North Country Region, Gouverneur and Keeseville were each the recipients of a $4.5 million award.

NY Forward is led by the Department of State, in close partnership with Empire State Development, NYS Homes and Community Renewal and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.

The Local Planning Committee (LPC) includes local and regional leaders, stakeholders, and community representatives. LPC members attend meetings at which they are asked to brainstorm ideas, provide direction to consultants, review planning products, prioritize actions, and evaluate potential projects. Village Mayor Ronald McDougall and Zvi Szafran, President of SUNY Canton and North Country Regional Economic Development Council member, are the Gouverneur LPC Co-Chairs.

The NY Forward process is being facilitated by a consultant team led by M.J. Engineering, Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Land Surveying, P.C. and supported by Andropogon, Hamlin Design Group, E.M. Pemrick & Company, and Captain Consulting.