By Marlene McTigue
Capital Region Independent Media
RAVENA — The Ravena Village Board met earlier this month to discuss community updates, including the expansion of St. Catherine’s Center for Children’s services, village infrastructure projects, and efforts to increase volunteerism.
ST. CATHERINE’S EXPANDS SERVICES
Tiffany Carroll, a representative from St. Catherine’s Center for Children, introduced the organization’s satellite office on Main Street and detailed the services they offer to local families.
The center provides resources for guardians, adoptive parents and kinship caregivers, particularly grandparents raising grandchildren.
The organization’s Permanency Resource Center helps families navigate legal processes, access financial assistance (such as DSS payments of up to $450 per child per month), and obtain support for applying for SNAP benefits, health insurance, and family court guidance.
Carroll emphasized the importance of peer support groups, where both caregivers and children can connect with others in similar situations. These sessions cover topics such as cyberbullying, trauma, and family responsibilities. The center also hosts respite programs, offering children activities like ice skating, trampoline parks, and even self-care days for pre-teens.
The office at 30 Main St. in the village will host Saturday programming once a month, providing family-friendly events and additional resources for caregivers.
For more information on St. Catherine’s Center for Children, contact Tiffany Carroll at their 30 Main St. office at 518-852-9546 or via mail at tcarroll@st-cath.org. The website address is https://www.st-cath.org/.
HONORING COMMUNITY LEADERS
The board took a moment to acknowledge the passing of two prominent community figures — Mabel Klenk and Ginny Pearson.
Klenk was a 100-year-old resident who donated $1,000 to support the maintenance of Mosher Park as a forever green space.
Pearson, a former village justice who served from 1992 to 2004 was recognized for her years of service.
Mayor Bill Misuraca expressed the village’s gratitude for their contributions, noting that Klenk’s donation will be put to good use in preserving the park.
PUBLIC SAFETY AND INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATES
The following was reported at the board meeting:
• The water department reported a recent water main break on Wendell and Cary, which was repaired despite sub-zero temperatures.
• New cellular-read water meters were installed in key areas to improve monitoring and efficiency.
• The police department responded to 692 calls for service in January, conducted 200 traffic stops, and issued 76 tickets. Notably, there were zero DWI incidents reported for the month.
• The fire department responded to 12 calls in January, including multiple motor vehicle incidents and chimney fires. Firefighters continue their training programs, with additional Saturday morning drills to accommodate members who work weeknights.
VOLUNTEER AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Village Trustee Sandy DeBacco highlighted the Ravena Hose Company’s recruitment push, encouraging residents to consider joining as junior or cadet members. The department is also hosting community events to boost awareness and attract volunteers.
Village Trustee Caitlin Appleby attended a recent community forum on volunteerism, where 30 to 40 local stakeholders gathered to discuss ways to increase civic engagement. The forum underscored the need for a community-wide needs assessment, which Appleby plans to initiate by gathering data from various local organizations.
PLANNING AND APPOINTMENTS
• Casey Margiasso was appointed as an alternate member of the village planning/zoning board.
• The board approved abstract 9-1-25, which included $120,946.11 in audited bills.
UPCOMING EVENTS AND REMINDERS
• Firehouse Kitchen Remodel: The Ravena Hose Company is currently renovating its kitchen and has a commercial stove for sale.
• Water Bills: The last payment date before penalties was Feb. 11.
• Next Planning & Zoning Board Meeting: Feb. 24.
As the village continues to focus on community support, public safety, and volunteerism, leaders encourage residents to stay involved through upcoming meetings and initiatives.
