Newburgh · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Newburgh public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Fire Captain examination scheduling
Five exams were on the calendar: Police Officer agility testing on November 7, plus Senior Clerk, Senior Account Clerk, Principal Account Clerk, and Code Enforcement Officer exams in November and December. These build the hiring pools for city jobs.
Police technology contracts (Tasers and body cameras)
Three separate deals with Axon Enterprise were on the agenda: Tasers for five years, camera upgrades, and a five-year body camera renewal. Together they represent nearly $1 million in police technology spending.
Fire department staffing and overtime
The fire department is at 54 of a desired 62 sworn firefighters and Chief Puller wants two more positions plus about $1 million in overtime so Engine 1 doesn't get browned out when someone calls in sick. Councilmembers praised the department's overtime discipline and pushed for higher base salaries so firefighters stop leaving for better-paying departments like Arlington.
Police staffing, overtime and a traffic unit
The chief says five officer vacancies force heavy overtime (toward $1 million this year) and wants six new officers — three for a traffic unit — plus civilian FOIL and lobby clerks so sworn officers can get back on the street.
Ambulance service renewal
The council was to consider renewing Empress Ambulance's contract for emergency medical services from 2027 through 2029. This determines who answers 911 medical calls in the city.
Flock Group Master Services Agreement
The council was to discuss a master services agreement with Flock Group Inc., the company behind automated license plate reader cameras — a public safety technology with privacy considerations.
Gun Violence Elimination and Traffic Safety Grants
The council was asked to authorize applying for a $910,000 state GIVE grant to fund gun violence reduction work (city pays 25% of salaries) and a $49,000 traffic safety grant with no match.
Police Department Recruitment
The city is running Police Officer exams on May 9, including a Spanish-speaking track, at Newburgh Free Academy, plus an open house for candidates to meet officers. The exam date, locations, and a pending press release were confirmed.
Police Department 2025 update and new position
The Police Department was set to present its 2025 update, and a separate resolution would add one Public Safety Attendant position to the department.
Clearview AI Facial Recognition Contract
The Council was scheduled to consider a $17,100 one-year contract for Clearview AI facial recognition software for the Police Department. Facial recognition raises questions about surveillance, accuracy, and privacy for residents.
Fair and Welcoming City Resolution
Resolution No. 46 would prohibit using city personnel and resources for civil immigration enforcement and reaffirm Newburgh as a fair and welcoming city. It directly affects how local government interacts with immigrant residents.