The following is the Town of Pittsford eNews as distributed to subscribers on May 6, 2026. Plain-English summaries follow each section.
Supervisor Saturday with Bill Smith at the Library
Town Supervisor Bill Smith will host his next community open house meeting this Saturday, May 9, from 9:00 to 10:00am at the [Pittsford Community Library](/pittsford-community-library). If you have questions, ideas, or comments for Supervisor Smith, please stop by and join the conversation.
This casual open house will take place in the Fisher Meeting Room. Supervisor Saturday provides residents who can't visit Supervisor Smith during the work week an opportunity to speak with him directly. Come and discuss what matters most to you! Drop in - no registration required. The Pittsford Community Library is located at 24 State Street.
Supervisor Smith maintains an open-door policy and encourages residents to visit Town Hall by appointment during regular business hours, Monday through Friday. As always, he is available by phone at 248-6220 and by email at wsmith@townofpittsfordny.gov.
What This Means
Drop-in community meeting this Saturday morning, May 9, 9-10am, at the library's Fisher Meeting Room. No registration. If you've been meaning to raise something with the supervisor, this is the easiest way to do it.
Paddle and Pour Art & Music Festival Returns Saturday, May 23
Mark your calendar for one of Pittsford's favorite spring traditions! The Town of Pittsford's 2026 [Paddle and Pour Art & Music Festival](/your-complete-guide-to-paddle-and-pour-2026-art-music-beer-and-the-pittsford-reg) returns Saturday, May 23, from noon until 10:00pm along North Main Street.
This free, daylong festival brings together live music, regional artists, local food and drink, family activities and the excitement of the annual Pittsford Regatta for a full day of community fun in the charming Village of Pittsford!
Enjoy live music throughout the day, including a headlining performance by Primetime Funk, plus a craft beer and wine tent featuring local wineries and breweries. Festivalgoers can also enjoy food from local eateries offering far more than the average festival fare.
From 12:00pm to 7:00pm, visitors can browse and shop the work of local artists, artisans, and photographers, while also enjoying live art demonstrations and hands-on family activities throughout the festival.
Of course, one of the day's signature highlights is the Pittsford Regatta, where spectators can cheer on teams competing in this lively canal tradition.
Admission to the festival is free; food and beverages are available for purchase. For the full schedule of events and details on participating artists, wineries, breweries, food vendors, and festival activities, visit Paddle and Pour Art & Music Festival at [www.paddleandpour.org](https://www.paddleandpour.org).
What This Means
Free all-day festival along North Main Street on May 23, noon to 10pm. Live music all day, craft beer and wine, local food, an artist and artisan market through 7pm, family activities, and the annual Pittsford Regatta on the canal. Note: the community events calendar at the bottom of this eNews lists the 8-10pm headliner as "Uptown Groove" rather than "Primetime Funk" - check paddleandpour.org for the confirmed lineup.
Memorial Day Parade and Remembrance Ceremony - Monday, May 25
Each year, our community comes together to pay tribute to our fallen by participating in a [Memorial Day parade and Remembrance Ceremony](/events/pittsford-memorial-day-parade-and-remembrance-ceremony), which this year will take place on Monday, May 25, at 10:00am. The parade will follow its traditional route, starting at Sutherland High School, marching down Jefferson Road to Main Street, and culminating at the Pittsford Cemetery for a remembrance ceremony (with a procession entering on Washington Road).
Pittsford seniors are also invited to take part in the parade, with the option to walk or ride the Senior Center bus. Interested participants should call the Senior Center at 585-248-6235 to reserve a spot and arrive at the Spiegel Community Center on May 25 by 9:15am.
The Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony will honor the fallen and include patriotic musical performances by the Pittsford Fire Department Band. Please check back for updates; we will share the full program schedule when it's available.
Following the ceremony, the Rayson-Miller American Legion Post 899 will host a reception at Post headquarters (21 N. Main Street, in the lower level of Village Hall). More details are available on our Memorial Day web page, found at [www.townofpittsfordny.gov/memorial-day](https://www.townofpittsfordny.gov/memorial-day).
What This Means
Parade steps off from Sutherland High School at 10am on May 25, following Jefferson Road to Main Street and ending at Pittsford Cemetery for a Remembrance Ceremony. Seniors who want to walk or ride the Senior Center bus should call 585-248-6235 and plan to be at the Spiegel Community Center by 9:15am. Reception follows at American Legion Post 899 on North Main Street.
Town Clerks Recognized During National Municipal Clerks Week
Town Clerks Recognized During National Municipal Clerks Week
In honor of Professional Municipal Clerks Week, observed May 3-9, the Town of Pittsford extends its sincere appreciation to our dedicated Town Clerk's Office staff for their essential service to the community.
Often the first point of contact for residents, the Clerk's Office plays a vital role in the daily operations of Town government. From maintaining official records and administering oaths to issuing licenses and supporting Town Board meetings, the Clerk's Office helps ensure transparency, accuracy, and accessibility in local government.
This year, the Town is also proud to recognize Town Clerk Renee McQuillen for earning the Registered Municipal Clerk (RMC) designation from the New York State Town Clerks Association. This distinction reflects a high level of professional competency, experience, and commitment to ongoing education in municipal administration.
We thank our Town clerks for their professionalism, reliability, and continued dedication to serving the Pittsford community.
What This Means
Town Clerk Renee McQuillen earned the Registered Municipal Clerk (RMC) designation - a professional credential from the New York State Town Clerks Association. Professional Municipal Clerks Week runs May 3-9.
Pittsford Playground Passport Program Underway
Pittsford Playground Passport Program Underway
Looking for a fun way to keep kids active this summer? The Pittsford Recreation Department's [Playground Passport Program](/the-pittsford-playground-passport-your-complete-guide-to-all-five-town-parks-thi) is back. Pick up a Playground Passport at the Spiegel Community Center front desk anytime throughout the summer, then visit each of the Town's five playgrounds by August 31, 2026. Record the date of each visit in your passport and return it when complete.
Each participating child will receive a prize and be entered into a grand prize drawing for a free week of Summer Fun Camp in 2027.
Town of Pittsford Playgrounds:
- Great Embankment Park, 631 Marsh Road
- Hopkins Park, 5 Barker Road
- King's Bend Park, 170 West Jefferson Road
- Pittsford Community Center, 35 Lincoln Avenue
- Thornell Farm Park, 480 Pittsford-Mendon Road
For more information, call (585) 248-6280 or visit [www.townofpittsfordny.gov/playground-passport-program](https://www.townofpittsfordny.gov/playground-passport-program).
What This Means
Pick up a passport at the Spiegel Community Center, visit all five Town playgrounds by August 31, and return it for a prize and a chance to win a free week of 2027 Summer Fun Camp. Free, no registration required.
Upcoming Programs at the Pittsford Community Library
Upcoming Programs at the Pittsford Community Library
Spring programming for all ages and interests continues at the Pittsford Community Library. From educational presentations to creative opportunities and community events, there is something for everyone to enjoy this May.
Bookmark Contest - Submissions Due May 31. Everyone is invited to participate in the annual Bookmark Contest. Instructions and bookmark templates are available at the Circulation Desk.
Adult Programs:
- May 7, 6:30pm - Home-Grown Herbs (Zoom), presented by Cornell Cooperative Extension. Registration required: calendar.libraryweb.org/event/16650234
- May 14, 2:00pm - Social Security: Your Questions Answered. Registration required: calendar.libraryweb.org/event/16650409
- May 17, 2:00pm - Rochester Jewish Chorale. Free, no registration required.
- May 18, 6:00pm - Eleanor Roosevelt: A Life, Part Two with Prof. Mark Sample. Registration required: calendar.libraryweb.org/event/16650417
Teen Programs:
- May 2-13 - Exam Study Halls, Fisher Room
- May 13, 5:30pm - Teen Community Service (grades 6-12). Registration required: calendar.libraryweb.org/event/16650898
Children's Programs:
- May 9, 10:30am - Bilingual Spanish Story Time. Free, no registration required.
The Pittsford Community Library is located at 24 State Street. Full calendar: calendar.libraryweb.org or call (585) 248-6275.
What This Means
A full month of free programming at the library - herbs, Social Security Q&A, the Rochester Jewish Chorale, an Eleanor Roosevelt lecture series, teen study halls, bilingual story time for kids, and a bookmark contest open to all. Most adult programs require registration at calendar.libraryweb.org.
Bike Safety Jamboree - May 16
Families are invited to kick off the spring biking season at the Village of Pittsford's [Bike Safety Jamboree](/events/bike-safety-jamboree-at-schoen-place-may-16) on Saturday, May 16. This free, family-friendly event will focus on safe riding for all ages in a welcoming, community-centered setting along the canal.
Participants can stop by for quick, practical bike-safety tips, connect with local community partners, and enjoy a relaxed morning outdoors. Children will also receive free bike bells while supplies last.
The event will take place from 9:00 to 10:00am at the Towpath Bike Parking Lot, 21 Schoen Place. Advance registration is encouraged: https://bit.ly/4w2TlZ1.
What This Means
Free one-hour event at Schoen Place on May 16, 9-10am. Bike safety tips, community partners, free bells for kids. Register in advance if possible.
Glass Recycling: What Happens After the Bin?
Glass Recycling: What Happens After the Bin?
A message from the Monroe County Department of Environmental Services.
Due to challenges in glass recycling, most glass collected curbside across New York State has historically been destined for the landfill.
But there's good news for our community: all glass that comes to the Monroe County Recycling Center is being turned into new recycled materials.
Waste Management, the operator of the Monroe County Recycling Center, invested in a glass-cleanup system to improve the quality and marketability of the recycled-glass stream. As a result, in 2025, zero curbside recycling glass was sent to the landfill - every container was recycled.
Since then, nearly 5,000 tons of glass have been recycled through a partnership among Monroe County, WM, and Sibelco, a leading glass recycler, into fiberglass insulation - considered one of the highest-value-added uses for recycled glass. Whether you recycle glass curbside or return it to a redemption center in Monroe County, you can be confident it's being transformed into recycled materials. Visit www.monroecounty.gov/recycling for a full list of acceptable recyclables.
What This Means
Monroe County's glass recycling program is working. In 2025, none of the curbside glass collected went to landfill - all of it was processed and nearly 5,000 tons have since been turned into fiberglass insulation. Rinse your jars and keep recycling.
National Water Safety Month: Simple Steps That Save Lives
National Water Safety Month: Simple Steps That Save Lives
May is National Water Safety Month, a timely reminder to review safe habits before summer begins. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly, even during gatherings filled with adults. In fact, an estimated 23% of child drownings occur during family events, when supervision can become unclear.
Key safety reminders:
- Assign a Water Watcher: designate one adult to actively watch children in or near the water at all times, avoiding distractions like phones, conversations, or alcohol.
- Avoid the "Someone Else Is Watching" trap: at parties, never assume another adult is supervising. Make supervision clear and intentional.
- Consider hiring a lifeguard for pool parties or large gatherings.
- Enroll in swim lessons to build confidence and water skills.
- Install proper barriers: home pools should have four-sided fencing at least 4 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates.
- Use Coast Guard-approved life jackets in open water.
- Learn CPR - immediate response is critical in an emergency.
- Never swim alone and always check water conditions before entering.
- Remove pool toys after use so children are not tempted to return unsupervised.
What This Means
Practical reminders as pool and open-water season begins. The Water Watcher designation - one adult, no distractions, responsible for watching kids - is the single most effective prevention step at group gatherings.
Town Board Meeting Highlights - April
Pittsford eNews includes a monthly feature highlighting recent Town Board meetings. Residents can view meeting agendas, minutes, and recordings at www.townofpittsfordny.gov/minutes.
At its April 7 meeting, the Pittsford Town Board:
- Continued reviewing the Village of East Rochester's proposal to annex five parcels on Linden Avenue; noted that East Rochester updated its code to meet Pittsford's requirements, allowing the Town to move forward with consideration
- Received the Town's 2025 annual audit presentation, which reported strong internal controls and a sound financial position
- Approved a partial release of a sanitary sewer easement at Pittsford Mendon High School
- Approved a $9,000 budget transfer to support turf maintenance in partnership with the Pittsford Central School District
- Acknowledged completion of the required annual Town Court financial review
- Recognized the Pittsford Robotics Team for advancing to a world competition
At its April 21 meeting, the Pittsford Town Board:
- Approved annexation of five parcels (2.34 acres) on Linden Avenue to the Town/Village of East Rochester to consolidate Northside Salvage operations under one municipality; the change is expected to improve traffic safety, reduce congestion, and enhance the corridor's appearance. In lieu of the $800-per-year lost in tax revenue to Pittsford, Northside agreed to pay Pittsford $1,000 annually for the next 10 years.
- Authorized standard lender-requested lease documents related to the Town Court facility
- Approved granting an easement to the Monroe County Water Authority to relocate a fire hydrant as part of the East Street Sidewalk Project
- Approved up to $500 for a free rabies clinic to be held Thursday, May 14, from 4:30-7:00pm at the Town Highway Garage
- Asked staff to evaluate outreach methods to increase awareness of the annual rabies clinic
- Scheduled upcoming discussions including a road paving update, a proposed public art donation, and a potential update to the Active Transportation Plan
The Town Board typically meets on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 6:00pm in the lower-level meeting room at Town Hall (11 South Main Street).
What This Means
Two key actions in April: the 2025 audit came back clean with strong financials, and the Board approved annexation of five Linden Avenue parcels to East Rochester to consolidate Northside Salvage - with Northside paying Pittsford $1,000/year for 10 years to offset lost tax revenue. The Pittsford Robotics Team was recognized for reaching a world competition.
Reminders
Free Drive-Thru Rabies Vaccine Clinic - May 14, 4:30-7:00pm. Town Highway Garage, 60 Golf Avenue. Dogs, cats, and ferrets welcome. Dogs must be on a short leash; cats and ferrets in a secure carrier. Three-year vaccine available with prior rabies certificate; otherwise one-year vaccine. No appointment required. Questions: Animal Control at 248-6240.
Hazardous Waste, Electronics Recycling, and Document Shredding - May 16, 7:45am-noon. Perinton Highway Garage, 100 Cobb's Lane. Appointment required for hazardous waste - call 248-6250 or visit www.monroecounty.gov/ecopark. No appointment needed for electronics recycling or document shredding (up to 5 boxes). Business waste not accepted.
SEPTA Spring Silent Auction - Ends May 9. Over 100 items supporting students with special education needs. Bid at https://bit.ly/4vMU7t8.
What This Means
Three time-sensitive items: free pet rabies vaccines on May 14 (no appointment needed), hazardous waste drop-off on May 16 (appointment required - book soon), and the SEPTA auction closes Friday May 9.
Source: Town of Pittsford eNews, May 6, 2026. Published by the Town of Pittsford, 11 S. Main St., Pittsford, NY 14534. Subscribe at www.townofpittsfordny.gov/enews.
