County Slashes Park Fees for Heroes: Honoring First Responders and Boosting Community Parks

Nestled in the scenic Hudson Valley region of southeastern New York, just 50 miles north of New York City, Putnam County has taken a significant step to recognize and reward its hard-working first responders and county employees by granting a 50% discount on seasonal park permits. The resolution, introduced by County Executive Kevin Byrne and passed unanimously by the County Legislature on December 3rd, was celebrated this week in a signing ceremony attended by members of the Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park Advisory Board.

Speaking to Think American News, County Executive Kevin Byrne emphasized the importance of acknowledging the dedication of first responders and county employees while promoting the county’s natural resources. “Putnam County is blessed to be home to many hard-working first responders and employees who serve in county government. This 50% discount helps recognize them while simultaneously promoting our beautiful parks system,” he stated.

The discount is applicable at Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park, which Byrne described as one of the county’s treasures. The initiative follows Byrne’s October 2025 Budget Address, during which he proposed the measure. After a thorough review and recommendation by the reconfigured Veterans Memorial Park Advisory Board, the proposal was formally submitted to the Legislature for approval.

Byrne highlighted the potential of Veterans Memorial Park as an underutilized asset: “I have long felt that our Veterans Memorial Park, while beautiful, is often underutilized. This act helps promote our park and will assist the County in attracting more visitors.”

The renewed focus on the park aligns with the county’s broader goals to increase awareness and engagement with the park’s offerings. Recent events, such as the Feast of San Gennaro Festival, have already begun to draw larger crowds. Plans for a new Veterans Museum, supported by a grant from Assemblyman Matt Slater, aim to further enhance the park’s appeal.

The efforts of the reestablished Veterans Memorial Park Advisory Board have been crucial to these advancements. Byrne praised the board’s revitalization and its impact: “When I took office, I learned that Putnam County had a series of advisory boards that were largely defunct. Not only is our Veterans Park Advisory Board now fully appointed and operational, but the board is active and working effectively to help Putnam County become better, stronger, and more accessible to all. I am grateful to the advisory board, as well as the Legislature, for their support of this effort.”

The Advisory Board, a nine-member group composed of veterans and individuals with expertise in park operations, has played a pivotal role in shaping the park’s future. This includes recommendations for the discount program and initiatives to increase attendance while fostering pride within the community.

Putnam County Parks Director Chris Ruthven and Veterans Service Agency Director Karl Rohde, both members of the Advisory Board, expressed their support. Ruthven noted in a press release the positive impact the resolution would have on park attendance, while Rohde emphasized the importance of encouraging families to visit and learn about veterans’ history.

As the county continues to develop its parks and attractions, the administration’s commitment to supporting its employees, first responders, and veterans remains a cornerstone of its policies. This initiative not only honors the contributions of these groups but also opens new opportunities for residents to enjoy and appreciate the county’s scenic and historic resources.