Peekskill staff outlines $300,000 in planning funds and invites nonprofits, highlights Sloyd boat‑building program

City staff told the council on Aug. 31 that the city has funding to cover nearly $300,000 in professional fees to plan a community center and prepare bid documents for construction.

"We the city is in receipt of, funding that would fund almost $300,000 worth of, professional fees to plan for and start the preparation of bid documents for construction, which would go towards community center," the city manager said while describing outreach plans (surveys, nonprofit engagement) and noting the library’s relocation alters available space considerations. The manager said the city wants to consult nonprofits that already serve youth and seniors and invited organizations to present ideas for services.

The manager highlighted a nonprofit program called Sloyd that began with a boat‑building program and has proposed expanded activities and use of space at the youth bureau (828 Main). He said Sloyd’s organizers envision a visible storefront space and expressed interest in a long‑term riverfront boat‑building facility but cautioned that riverfront development would require consultation with the Army Corps of Engineers and the state Department of Environmental Conservation because of flood‑zone constraints.

Council members praised the Sloyd program after the presentation, noting visits to the facility during a backpack giveaway and commending its work with children. The item was informational; staff said no action was required at the Aug. 31 meeting and that the organization would be invited back to present more detailed proposals.