Weekly Update:

Dirty Cello at Upper Jay Art Center (UJAC)
Last night, my wife and I enjoyed the first of six concerts at the Upper Jay Art Center, sponsored by the Town of Jay, NY. Dirty Cello, an incredible band from San Francisco, performed a unique variety of rock music featuring the cello. It was wonderful to see many new faces at UJAC discovering one of the hidden gems within our community. If you were unable to attend, there will be five more opportunities to attend free concerts at UJAC throughout the year.

Board of Assessment Review (BAR) Alternates Needed
As the days get longer, we are reminded that spring is here and the 2026 tax rolls will soon be released. This year is a New York State mandated town-wide revaluation year for the Town of Jay. While our assessor has been working hard to evaluate every property, there may be instances where you disagree with your property valuation.
The process to challenge an assessment occurs on Grievance Day, typically held around the third week of May. We are seeking two residents interested in serving as alternates for the Board of Assessment Review. This role involves learning the process, completing required training, and sitting on the board during Grievance Day to evaluate information and make determinations. These are one-year terms appointed by the Town Board. To express your interest please email me at supervisor@townofjayny.gov.

Agricultural Literacy Week at AFES
I was fortunate to participate in Agricultural Literacy Week with the second graders at AuSable Forks Elementary School (AuSable Valley Central School District) this week. I shared my experiences raising cattle while growing up and continuing that work today with my parents at Moon Valley Farm. We read the book “Seasons on a Farm” and worked on a project where students drew the different activities that happen on a farm during each season. The students were highly engaged and asked fantastic questions. I look forward to participating again next year.

Visitor Center Position
The Town of Jay has contracted with the Au Sable River Valley Business Association of NY (ARVBA) to open and operate a Visitor Center on Main Street in Au Sable Forks. For the first year, this will be a part-time position of 20 hours per week. The role includes providing office and business support for ARVBA to help foster growth within the Town of Jay and surrounding communities. For more information about the position and the organization, please visit the ARVBA website at: https://ausablerivervalley.com/

I hope you have a great weekend,
Matt