Bond Rating, Holiday Celebrations, Giving: Harrison Mayor

From Harrison Mayor Ron Belmont

I’m happy to report that, once again, the Town /Village of Harrison was notified that Moody’s, a bond credit ratings service, has awarded Harrison a Aaa bond rating which is the highest designated rating given. Harrison’s rating has continuously improved over the course of the last several years and has remained at the current Aaa rating.

Moody’s cites several factors for this year’s rating rationale: the Villages improved financial position, a sizeable and affluent tax base, which is expected to benefit from commercial development in the near term, and a manageable debt burden with a lower than average pension liability. They also cite, as strengths, Harrison’s large tax base, which is also expected to benefit from commercial development, and our municipality’s healthy financial position bolstered by recent reserve growth.

I am encouraged by this recent report and am confident that Harrison will remain in this very steady and favorable position. I would like to thank town personnel for all their hard work in preparing for this review.

In other good news, at the December 5 th Town Board meeting, the Town Board adopted the final budget for 2020. Once again, Harrison is within the tax cap mandated by Governor Cuomo. For the 2020 tax year, the levy increase allowed is under 2%. The 2020 tax rate, for the town of Harrison, is 1.974%. What this means to the average tax payer in Harrison is, if the assessed value of your home is $650,000, your increase is $5.64 a month/$67.67 annually. You will still be receiving exceptional municipal services. As in previous years, Harrison will not be utilizing a NY State program which allows local municipalities to borrow in order to pay their pension bills. Harrison will once again be paying the entire bill, at the end of 2020, without borrowing.

This year’s holiday celebration kickoffs were a big success. From candy canes to carolers and Santa’s arrival, both West Harrison and Downtown Harrison celebrated in style. The hot chocolate flowed in West Harrison as Frosty the Snowman visited with residents, young and old. Choral groups entertained the crowds in Downtown Harrison culminating in the lighting of the Christmas tree and menorah. It was great to see so many new friends and familiar faces as these are the occasions that highlight the true meaning of the season.

I would like to thank the following contributors for their generosity: Roy Aletti, Christian D’Onofrio, Artuso Pastry Shop, Star Kidz and the student choral groups from Harrison Ave. School, Preston School and Parsons School, Nora’s Oven Works, Wegmans, the Harrison PBA, the Harrison Fire Department and the Harrison Chamber of Commerce. Both events did a wonderful job reflecting the charm and magic that the holidays should bring to us all.

As we gather this holiday season, and reflect on the good tidings of the past year, I encourage you to celebrate the season of giving. State and local organizations will be increasing their efforts to assist food banks and soup kitchens. Donating food, stocking shelves and feeding those in need are meaningful ways to volunteer your time and celebrate the spirit of generosity. It’s an excellent opportunity to celebrate life’s good fortune and I urge all to take part. For more information on how you can get involved, please call our Community Services Department at 670-3025.

In closing, Harrison is a wonderful place to begin your holiday shopping. Locally owned shops and restaurants offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere and it’s a great spot to get together, with neighbors and friends, as you get ready for the season’s celebrations. While making your way through your shopping list, be sure to drop in to local establishments and join in the festive atmosphere.