by AnnGardner Eubank
IRVINGTON—Months of debate came to a head for Irvington residents and town council members on Thursday, February 6, with the adoption of an ordinance detailing policies and procedures for incurring significant town debt.
According to the ordinance, public engagement is at the forefront of decision making for incurring debt by the town; however, council will ultimately hold the final vote.
The ordinance evolved from a resident-led petition calling for a referendum for incurring major debt.
After several months of public hearings and discussion, a primary concern with enacting such a referendum arose: Only voting residents would be able to participate. A formal referendum would not allow for the participation of property owners who are not registered voters in town as well as a number of business owners.
Council member Mary Cary Bradley ultimately proposed the ordinance which was adopted, 4-2. It details when the ordinance will be triggered as well as how public engagement and input will….
