Welcome to
the Village of Monroe NY

The Village of Monroe Board of Trustees has decided to reassess the need for parking meters in the Village.

The use of meters has been part of the Village’s parking enforcement since 1946. Their purpose was, and remains today, the need to cycle cars through the limited downtown area of Monroe. Their implementation was part of our Downtown Revitalization Plan from the onset, which included paving and sidewalk replacement.

When COVID became a major challenge for our small businesses to conduct business, we thought it prudent not to install any meters while our businesses tried to survive. Within a year, however, we began to receive complaints that vehicles were parking downtown and remaining for the duration of the business day. We researched this issue and found that both business owners and residents in nearby apartments were parking in these spaces.

To address these concerns, we installed the parking kiosks and found that they helped improve parking availability. Businesses and shoppers, however, viewed the parking kiosks as a concern for customers and business activity. I have spoken with members of the Chamber of Commerce, as well as several business owners and property owners, and brought these concerns to the Board for discussion.

The Board has decided to shut down the parking kiosks while we bring together stakeholders, community members, and businesses to help us create the narrative going forward. We will advise the public when these workshops will be held and provide the agenda for our meetings. The Monroe Police Department will continue to enforce two-hour parking in the assigned areas currently in place.

We look forward to bringing this to a fruitful conclusion and giving our businesses their best opportunity to succeed and flourish.

Thank you,
Neil Dwyer Mayor Village of Monroe

Dear Neighbors,

As we welcome a new year, I want to reflect not only on where we are headed, but on what we have accomplished together over the past year as a community.

This past year was one of meaningful progress—progress that reflects our shared values of care, inclusion, stewardship, and service. One of the most visible examples is the completion of the Airplane Park playground, an inclusive play space designed so that children of all abilities and need scan play, explore, and feel welcome together. It has quickly become a place of joy for families across our village and a reminder of what thoughtful, people-centered planning can achieve.

We also celebrated the Phase 1 implementation of the new walkways and seating areas at CranePark. These improvements around the ponds have transformed the space into a beautiful, accessible, and welcoming environment—perfect for walking, sitting, reflecting, fishing, or simply enjoying the outdoors. It is a place that invites connection, calm, and appreciation for our natural surroundings.

Behind the scenes, we made critical investments in infrastructure that will serve our community for generations. The completion of the 1.5 mile transmission line between the Mombasha Reservoir and the Village water plant has resulted in two brand-new water lines that will reliably serve both Village residents and town water users well into the next century. In addition, we updated two miles of water main infrastructure that service multiple neighborhoods within the Village—essential work that strengthens reliability, safety, and resilience.

This year also reflected a deep commitment to preservation and history. The Village took action to preserve six properties for watershed protection and historical preservation, safeguarding resources that define who we are and protect what matters most. We further entered into an agreement with the Monroe Historical Society to provide them with a permanent home at 150 Franklin Avenue. This space will house and catalogue nearly 300 years of Monroe history and serve as a living classroom, hosting presentations and educational programs throughout the years so our shared story can be preserved and passed on.

In recognition of service and sacrifice, the VillageBoard also passed a resolution granting a 10%reduction on Village property taxes for volunteer first responders—firefighters and ambulance corps members—who are property owners. This action reflects our gratitude for those who selflessly give their time to serve our community, often under demanding and challenging conditions.

These accomplishments are just a short list of the work completed in 2025, and none of it happens without the engagement, patience, and support of our residents. At the same time, I remain deeply aware that while progress is important, compassion is essential. Many in our community continue to face personal and financial challenges, health concerns, or uncertainty about the future. Please know that your local government is committed not only to projects and plans, but to people.

As we look ahead, I want to share a personal note of gratitude. As Mayor, I feel truly blessed to have a team around me—my fellow Board members, Village staff, department leaders, volunteers, and community partners—who inspire me every day. They are people who are willing to get into the trenches, who support me when leadership is difficult, who challenge me when better answers are needed, and who fill in the gaps where I fall short. Their dedication, professionalism, and heart for this community make all of our accomplishments possible.

Thank you for your trust and for the privilege of serving as your Mayor. I look forward to the year ahead with optimism, humility, and resolve.

On behalf of my Board of Trustees and staff,
We wish you a Happy, Healthy, and Hopeful New Year.

Sincerely,
Neil Dwyer, Village of Monroe Mayor,
Board of Trustees and Village Staff