Hinchey Delivers $80,000 to Red Hook Police Department for First Electric Vehicle

RED HOOK, NY – Senator Michelle Hinchey has secured an $80,000 state grant for the Red Hook Police Department to purchase its first fully electric vehicle (EV) and install a charging station at Red Hook Village Hall. The EV will support the School Resource Officer Program, where up to three officers are assigned daily to enhance school safety, and will be used for regular patrol duties when school is out for the summer.

 

Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Electric vehicles make good climate and economic sense, and I’m thrilled to help the Red Hook Police Department hit the road with its first fully electric vehicle. Red Hook is a small community leading the way locally to protect our planet, and our School Resource Officers are perfect role models to demonstrate the value of safety and sustainability, working together to support our schools and neighborhoods. I’m happy to contribute to such an important investment and excited to see how the new EV will bring cleaner air and cost savings to Red Hook.”

 

Village of Red Hook Mayor Karen Smythe said, “We are grateful to Senator Hinchey for making the purchase of the first electric police car for the Red Hook Police Department possible. This gives us the opportunity to be an example showing how new technology can bring vital services to our community while being mindful of our environmental impact."

Village of Red Hook Police Lieutenant Patrick Hildenbrand said, “I am thankful to Senator Hinchey for getting the Red Hook Police Department this grant. Switching to an all-electric vehicle allows the Red Hook Police Department a cutting-edge opportunity to advance police services to the community we serve and protect. This grant not only ensures the safest vehicle for our officers but also leads to substantial reductions in both fuel and maintenance costs. The Red Hook Police Department is grateful that we are able to spearhead the initiative for a fully functional, all-electric patrol vehicle.”

Dr. Janet Warden, Superintendent of Red Hook Central School District, said, “The Red Hook Central School District thanks Senator Hinchey for her generous grant supporting the purchase of an electric vehicle for our SRO program. The EV police car is aligned with our goal of transitioning our bus fleet to electric, which will reduce emissions and save costs. We appreciate Senator Hinchey for her dedication to the safety and well-being of our students at Red Hook School District. Her support is essential in helping us create a safer and more sustainable future for our children.”

Laurie Husted, Chair of the Red Hook Conservation Advisory Council and Red Hook Energy Committee Member, said, "It was 'a breath of fresh air' to learn that the Village of Red Hook will soon have an electric car for the RH Police Department, thanks to Senator Michelle Hinchey for securing the funding and Mayor Smythe’s leadership. We so appreciate the chance to see how this vehicle works for the needs of the officers as we carve our path to a Climate Smart Community - and the triple wins of saving money, cleaner air, and protecting the environment."

 

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