NORTH SALEM, N.Y. - As we get set to turn the calendar to 2026, North Salem News takes one last look back at some of the top stories from another eventful year in our community!
Cheers to 40 Years
In March, the town honored Lt. Neil F. Caputo with a proclamation and a designated “Neil Caputo Day” as he retired after more than 40 years of service with the North Salem Police Department. Caputo joined the department in 1982 and held numerous roles across town agencies, including the Croton Falls Fire Department, the volunteer ambulance corps, and the town’s emergency management team. Known for his dedication, leadership, and even a few memorable foot pursuits, Caputo was praised as a valued colleague and lifelong asset to North Salem as he began his next chapter.
Tigers Repeat as State Champs
For the second straight year, North Salem’s boys soccer team dominated the postseason, culminating with a 3-0 win over Wilson High School in the Class C state championship game on Nov. 16. Powered by a relentless offense and a stingy defense, the Tigers scored early and never looked back, securing Coach Ron Hendrie’s fourth state title and a hero’s welcome from the hometown fans.
DeLuce Elected Tax Receiver
In North Salem's only contested race on Election Day, Democrat Karol DeLuce was elected as North Salem's new receiver of taxes defeating Republican Randi Bowen by a measure of 855 to 611 votes. Town Supervisor Warren Lucas, Deputy Supervisor Peter Kamenstein, Councilman Martin Aronchick all earned new terms and James “Bo” DePaoli was elected as highway superintendent, on Nov. 4.
Farmers Market to Expand
In August, the North Salem Farmers Market received approval to expand from a monthly to a weekly event in 2026 after strong attendance and community support. Launched in 2024, the market on Back Street in Croton Falls has drawn thousands of visitors each month and earned high marks for its vendor variety and quality. Weekly operation will offer more consistent access to local food, provide steady income for farmers, and potentially allow the market to participate in SNAP.
Aversano Steps Down from Board of Ed
In June, it was announced that trustee Carolyn Aversano had resigned from the North Salem Board of Education with one year left in her term, citing personal reasons. Colleagues praised her leadership, collaboration, and long-standing service to the district, where she previously served as board president.
30 Years in the Making
In November, North Salem volleyball ended a 30-year drought by winning the section championship, defeating rival Tuckahoe in a five-set thriller at the Westchester County Center. Down 2-1, the Tigers would rally and clinch the decisive fifth set, 15–10. The squad would advance to the regional semi-finals, falling to Port Jefferson.
Delancey Hall Project
Delancey Hall, North Salem’s historic town hall dating back to the 1760s, is undergoing a major renovation after a routine paint job uncovered crumbling siding, rotting beams, and other structural issues. The building, featured on the town seal and home to several town offices, has had its staff temporarily relocated to nearby Loebdell House in a trailer while repairs proceed. The town authorized up to $900,000 in short-term financing to cover the project, which includes repairing the roof, windows, and other key features. Officials say the renovation will preserve the building for future generations, and work is expected to continue into the spring.
Remembering Dick Button
Figure skating legend Dick Button, a two-time Olympic champion and five-time world titlist whose innovations transformed the sport, died on Jan. 30 at his home in North Salem at age 95. Credited with landing the first double Axel and the first triple jump in competition, Button went on to a decades-long career as the outspoken voice of figure skating on television. A Harvard-educated skater, producer, and longtime ABC analyst, he was also a devoted gardener and community supporter in North Salem.
The Pickleball Problem
In October, North Salem was seeking solutions to noise complaints from neighbors near Joe Bohrdrum Park over pickleball play. While some residents argued the sport’s sharp paddle-ball sounds are disruptive, local players and supporters emphasized its health, social, and recreational benefits. The town is exploring options such as restricted play hours, sound-dampening equipment, acoustic fencing, and natural barriers to balance residents’ concerns with community recreation needs.
Capital Project Proposition
In May, voters in the North Salem Central School District cast their ballots in favor of a proposition to fund a $24.5 million districtwide capital project that includes infrastructure improvements at the Middle School/High School, Pequenakonck Elementary, and the district's bus garage.
The district's 2025-26 budget of $52,377,964 was also approved, and Board of Education trustees Deborah D'Agostino, Frances Havard, and Brandy Keenan were all re-elected after running unopposed.
School Start Times
Starting in September, North Salem students were able to get an extra 30 minutes of sleep as the district shifted to new school start times: 7:58 a.m. for the Middle/High School and 8:55 a.m. for Pequenakonck Elementary. After two years of community discussions, research, and committee evaluations, the change aimed to improve student health, mental well-being, focus, and academic performance, while minimizing disruptions to family schedules and extracurricular activities. The district cited studies showing later start times benefit sleep, mood, cognitive function, and physical health.
Baseball Merger
After months of uncertainty and concern from players, parents, and alumni, North Salem officially approved a varsity baseball merger with Somers High School in March. District officials had initially canceled the season due to “level of experience of returning players and significant injuries for key players in the lineup,” but the eventual approval of he merger gave North Salem’s players the opportunity to take the field as Tuskers.
Short Term Rentals
North Salem spent much of the year grappling with short-term vacation rentals (STRs), weighing the town’s character and resident quality of life against the realities of tourism and supplemental income. Town officials drafted regulations to allow STRs under a permitting system, aiming to balance enforcement, fairness, and neighborhood safety. Public hearings drew a mix of support and concern, highlighting the community’s care for both economic flexibility and preserving the town’s small-town feel.
Preserving History
The historic Cross River Baptist Church in Lewisboro found a new lease on life. Built in 1791, the town’s oldest public building had fallen into disrepair, but Pastor Time Wagner and members of the neighboring Croton Falls Community Church stepped in to preserve it. With repairs underway and a new nonprofit supporting its restoration, the church’s iconic bell will continue to ring, ensuring this 234-year-old landmark remains a place of worship and community for years to come.
Carol Reif and Tom Walogorsky contributed to this report.
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