July 2, 2020
Office of the Mayor
In the News…
While it’s clear that this summer will be different from those previous due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we’re making preparations to ensure a safe, responsible summer in the Collar City.
- Last Thursday, Mayor Madden and Police Chief Brian Owens issued a statement regarding recent violence in the Collar City involving illegal guns. The mayor and police chief asked for the community’s help and urged residents to report information or tips to police detective. Additional patrols and resources are also being deployed to investigate the incidents.
- On Tuesday, the Treasurer’s Office announced the City will offer off-site bill payment options in July for 2020 property tax payments. The in-person payment options are part of an effort to protect the health and safety of the public & employees due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Deadline for payment of 2nd installment of 2020 property taxes is Friday, July 31st. Residents were reminded that City Hall remains closed to the public due to the coronavirus.
- Also on Tuesday, the Department of Public Works announced garbage and recycling would be collected on Friday, July 3rd, ahead of the Independence Day holiday weekend.
- Last week, the Bureau of Parks and Recreation announced the opening of four City-operated splash pads. The facilities are open daily with varying hours of operation. Check the Parks & Recreation webpage for more information.
- The June edition of Troy’s ‘Recycling Matters’ newsletter is available for download. The latest issue discussed how families can practice conservation during the summer season, ways to safely dispose of masks and gloves responsibly during COVID, and reminders on household hazardous waste collection and composter/rain barrel sales. For more info, visit www.troyny.gov/recycling
- On Friday, Mayor Madden and the RensCo Pandemic Response Committee announced the return of ‘Summer Square’, to downtown Troy, a season-long event that activates public streets, parks, alleyways, and parking spaces for outdoor dining, shopping, and community programs. Summer Square 2020 will include open-air public dining areas for takeout and picnicking, outdoor dining at local restaurants and bars, and a series of diverse programs including music, lectures, dance, poetry, and more. Suspension of on-street metered parking in downtown Troy will continue through the end of August.
Star-Spangled Safety Tips
Please celebrate responsibly during the July 4th holiday weekend. If you plan to drink, please use a designated driver or hail a cab or ride-sharing service. Help keep our streets safe this summer!
Additionally, please think twice about using illegal fireworks this weekend. Fireworks are not only dangerous, but cause serious disruptions in our neighborhoods. They also can cause anxiety and distress for pets, and veterans with PTSD who normally prepare in advance of loud, percussive fireworks displays.
Residents can report issues or concerns to the Troy Police Department’s non-emergency number at (518) 270-4411. In an emergency, dial 9-1-1.
From the Desk of the Mayor
- On June 28th, Mayor Madden issued a proclamation honoring Rev. George William Whitfield, pastor at Fifth Avenue AME Zion Church in Troy, on the occasion of his 3rd pastoral anniversary and 20th year in the ministry.

- Earlier in June, Mayor Madden made his recurring blood donation to the American Red Cross, part of his ongoing efforts to promote blood and platelet donations from health individuals to help patients of all ages. Each donation can help save three – yes, 3 – lives. The mayor released a video encouraging Troy residents to make a blood donation this summer. Schedule a donation at www.redcrossblood.org

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