A proposal to construct a cellular communications tower at Cluett Schantz Memorial Park, a local Scout’s plans to improve park signage and the town’s 2027 budget were among the major topics discussed during Monday evening’s Marlborough Town Board meeting.

The Board also addressed a proposed property tax cap override, the sale of surplus Highway Department equipment, vacancies on municipal boards and the historic designation of a local church.

Cell Tower Proposal Could Generate Revenue for Town
One of the evening’s most significant discussions centered on a proposal from Crown Castle, a telecommunications infrastructure company that works with major cellular providers, including Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile.

Town Supervisor Scott Corcoran said the company has expressed interest in building a cell tower on town-owned property at Cluett Schantz Memorial Park.

Under the preliminary proposal, Crown Castle would lease approximately 70 feet by 70 feet of land for the tower and associated equipment.

The company’s initial offer includes a monthly payment of $1,500, equivalent to $18,000 annually, with a 2% annual increase. Additional cellular carriers using the tower would generate another $350 per month per carrier.

Corcoran emphasized that the financial terms are preliminary and that he would seek more favorable compensation for the town.

Board members discussed two potential locations within the park. One site would be near the top of the hill along the entrance road, while the second would be farther back, near the baseball fields.

Members expressed concern about the visual impact of placing a large telecommunications tower in a recreational area.

The location near the entrance was viewed less favorably because the tower and equipment would be more visible to visitors entering the park.

The second location, partially screened by existing trees, appeared to receive greater interest.

Board members also discussed whether the tower could be designed to resemble a tree to reduce its visual impact.

The proposal raised questions about access roads, existing park facilities and potential future use of the baseball and softball fields.

Despite those concerns, members generally agreed that the opportunity deserved further investigation.

Councilwoman Sessa noted that with municipal expenses continuing to rise, the town should carefully consider opportunities to generate additional revenue.
Improved cellular coverage was another potential benefit, particularly in areas where residents and visitors currently experience poor reception.

Corcoran explained that the proposal remains in its earliest stages and that the town has made no commitment to approve construction or enter into a lease.
The Board agreed to allow further discussions and engineering review before making any decisions.

Town Addresses 2027 Budget and Tax Cap Override

The Town Board also considered several significant financial matters, including adopting the town’s final 2027 budget.

Resolution No. 76 proposed Local Law No. 6 of 2026, which would authorize the town to override New York State’s property tax levy limit for the 2027 fiscal year.

The proposed law would allow Marlborough to adopt a budget requiring a property tax levy above the limit otherwise established under state law.

The meeting agenda also included Resolution No. 78, calling for adoption of the town’s final 2027 budget following a public hearing held October 13.

The tax cap override proposal represents an important financial decision for the town as municipalities continue to face rising operating costs and pressure to maintain services.

Marlboro Church Receives State Historic Recognition
Corcoran also shared news that the First Presbyterian Church of Marlboro, located off Grand Street, has been listed on the New York State Register of Historic Places.

According to correspondence the town received, the State Historic Preservation Office approved the church’s nomination after a review by the State Review Board.

The property has also been nominated for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. The Board will forward that nomination to federal officials in Washington, D.C., for consideration.

Board members welcomed the announcement and discussed the church’s long history in the community.

Board Thanks Voters Following Election
At the beginning of the meeting, Corcoran thanked residents for participating in the recent election and for giving him another two years to serve the community.

He noted the strong voter turnout and thanked other candidates for their willingness to seek public office. Corcoran recognized the commitment required of those who seek local office, regardless of the election results.