PORT JERVIS, NY — At the meeting on October 13, the common council passed the customary resolution for Halloween curfew in the interest of public safety. It runs from October 19 through November 9 from 9 p.m. until 6 a.m. for everyone under the age of 17 years, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian, or attending an educational establishment.

Holiday season celebrations came up several times during the meeting.

Councilmember Robert Waligroski said the annual Halloween parade will take place Sunday, October 25 at 3:30 p.m. Line-up will be at 3 on Hammond Street in front of City Hall, and after the parade, refreshments will be served and prizes awarded at Farnum Park.

Port Jervis Tourism Board member Laura Meyer, who was the driving force behind the success of the Fall Foliage Festival, stepped up to say the next big event will be the Christkindlmarkt, an outdoor holiday market, with the Santa Express coming again. She said this year they would have barriers with which they hope to alleviate problems with crowding of kids and parents experienced at last year’s event.

Mayor Kelly Decker congratulated her on the Fall Foliage Festival’s success, “You did a fabulous job, and we’re looking forward the next event.”

Decker also said Brother Bruno’s Pizza is sponsoring an event Sunday December 20, a gift giveaway. They asked for permission to close the section on Front Street from Sussex Street to Pike Street, and it was granted.

Industrial Development liaison Robert Ritchie said that at the special meeting on September 30 it was determined that the Future Homes PILOT agreement was in default, effectively terminating the special tax-break agreement because its terms had not been met.

Code and legislative chair Stan Siegel asked for people to contact the mayor or Siegal directly instead of commenting on Facebook. “I would recommend people come to the codes meeting. We had a wide discussion in the last meeting, and very few people were there to help us with that. We try to do the best for the community, and it’s difficult without your input.”

Siegel is also senior advisor, and he reported that housing representatives are looking for a tenant, “I met with representatives who are looking for anybody over 55 who’s looking for a nice clean apartment.”

Mayor Kelly Decker said separately that Water’s Edge housing is giving free Internet and TV for a year if residents sign up before December 13.

Council member Frank Bell held up a long list of properties for sale in the city, exclaiming, “As you can see, there are an awful lot of properties to for sale.”

Decker reminded winter parking regulations are going to be in force from December 1. “Make sure you get the parking permit, same price as last year,” he said.

Siegel was honored for 50 years of outstanding service to the fire department. Councilmember Frank Bell congratulated in his turn about his long years of service.

Siegel added, “The fire department is looking for volunteers. There’s free training; this is an opportunity to serve the community. We would have to pay a lot of money if we didn’t have volunteers. Contact the fire chief. There are jobs for young people and even older people.”

Siegel also spoke about the services available in the city. “Meals on Wheels program has been discussed and revised many times, but many people have gotten off the program. The food is better than it was. There are lots of slots available, better food, menu varies. Call 612/326-6706.”

He continued about volunteering, “Sign up, get involved!” He noted that people are in need and may be unable to prepare their lunch or supper themselves. “Some people get the opportunity not only to get a hot meal, but also someone to visit them.”