2026-602026-60
Resolution Proclaiming February As Black History Month In The Town Of Wappinger
At a Regular Meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Wappinger, Dutchess County, New York, held
at Town Hall, 20 Middlebush Road, Wappingers Falls, New York, on February 9, 2026.
The meeting was called to order by Joseph D. Cavaccini, Town Supervisor, and upon roll being called,
the following was recorded:
✓ Vote Record - Resolution RES -2026-60
Q Adopted Yes/Aye No/Nay Abstain Absent
❑ Adopted as Amended Joseph D. Cavaccini Voter Q ❑ ❑ ❑
❑ Defeated William H. Beale Voter ❑ ❑ ❑ Q
❑ Tabled Heather O'Dell Voter Q ❑ ❑ ❑
❑ Withdrawn Christopher Phillips Seconder, Q ❑ ❑ ❑
Al Casella Mover Q ❑ ❑ ❑
The following Resolution was introduced by Casella and seconded by Councilman Phillips.
WHEREAS, the Town of Wappinger recognizes that Black History Month provides an important
opportunity to celebrate the achievements, contributions, and rich cultural heritage of BlackAmericans
who have played a vital role in shaping our nation, state, and local communities; and
WHEREAS, the history of the United States is deeply intertwined with the history of African Americans
whose perseverance, leadership, innovation, and service have strengthened our democracy, enriched
our culture, and advanced the cause of equality and justice; and
WHEREAS, Black History Month traces its origins to Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who established Negro
History Week in 1926 to ensure that the accomplishments of BlackAmericans would be recognized and
studied as an integral part of American history; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Wappinger is committed to fostering a community thatvalues diversity, promotes
mutual respect, and ensures that all residents are treated with dignity and fairness; and
WHEREAS, recognizing Black History Month encourages reflection on our shared history, promotes
understanding across cultures, and inspires future generations to continue the work of building a more
just and inclusive society;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Wappinger hereby proclaims the
month of February as Black History Month in the Town of Wappinger; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Board encourages all residents, schools, community
organizations, and businesses to honor Black History Month through educational activities, community
events, and personal reflection on the contributions of BlackAmericans to our local community and to
the nation as a whole.
The foregoing was put to a vote which resulted as follows:
RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Al Casella, Councilman
SECONDER: Christopher Phillips, Councilman
AYES: Joseph D. Cavaccini, Heather O'Dell, Christopher Phillips, Al Casella
ABSENT: William H. Beale
Dated: Wappingers Falls, New York
2/9/2026
The Resolution is hereby duly declared Adopted.