Topic: What's the General Consensus?
What's the General Consensus?
My husband and are relocating back to NYC-area from San Francisco within the next couple of months, where we can actually have an opportunity to buy a house (SF is so crazy expensive it’s disgusting). We have friends in Peekskill who love it there and we checked it out on our last visit and decided that’s where we could see ourselves settling.
However, then I stumbled upon this site and discovered Newburgh! I’m enamored with the idea of restoring a grand old home, at a cost for much less than Peekskill. Our main concerns are of course the crime rate and the blight that still exists across most of the city.
My main questions are:
1. Tax rates seems to be outrageously expensive — why is this? What is it paying for? I’d be fine if it were for an increased police presence but it sounds like the police dept is underfunded as is. And if we do completely remodel an old home (hopefully a former “mansion” that was subdivided which we would convert back), does that mean the taxes would increase even more once we finish restoration?
2. Crime. I realize as more “visionaries” move in and rehab the city, it should have a trickle down effect. But that takes time, and how realistic is this in its current economic climate? Where would the gangs and current crime element go? I fear they won’t be leaving anytime soon. Has anyone here ever been personally affected by crime (burglary, mugging, etc)? If we stay in our “safer” neighborhoods that’s one thing, but I don’t want to feel unsafe leaving our home. Are there any initiatives in place to try and curb the crime and gang activity there?
3. Local government. I know there was a recent election, but what are the feelings of those running the city? Pro-revitalization and crime-control? Are more pro-restoration residents running for positions to help rebuild the city?
4. CBD. Is there a Central Business District Development Board or Organization to encourage investment and new business in the commercial areas? If not, why not? And if so, how is it doing so far?
5. How is the gay community there? My husband and I just don’t want to feel like the “only gays in the village,” so do you have any neighbors that are gay couples?
I could go on but I don’t want to make this too long (too late!). And of course we need to actually VISIT Newburgh and check it out more before making such a vital decision, but from everything I’ve read and seen on this forum and website, along with other articles about the revitalization of the Hudson Valley communities, I think I’m in love so far with Newburgh! 🙂