The town’s zoning board of appeals in December approved two variances for the proposed multi-family residential development at 2080 New Scotland Road, granting relief from all on-street parking required on both sides of the street and from a requirement for bike lanes. 

Judy Kimes, Publicist New Scotland Historical Association

CLARKSVILLE — Blair Joseph Sala “went to be with God” on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, his family wrote in a tribute. He was 47.
He was born on Jan. 17, 1976 in Albany to Joseph and Diane Sala of Clarksville.

NEW SCOTLAND — Jacob Timothy Albright was a seeker.

A gifted artist, an animal lover, and a musician, he loved to read and learn new things.

He died on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024 — “entering heaven to be with his grandmothers,” his parents wrote in a tribute. He was 39.

ALBANY COUNTY — Friends of Five Rivers has received $27,638 from the state to increase marketing and outreach throughout the greater Capital Region.

The award is “to ultimately drive up community engagement, membership, and volunteerism,” according to a Jan. 5 release from the governor’s office.

Geoffrey Stein, Clarksville

Vicky Plotsky, Albany County Legislator 38th Legislative District

NEW SCOTLAND — Local news out of New Scotland this year took on a decidedly national tone, with two major stories garnering media attention from outlets across the country.

Much as in 2017, the town is getting its regulatory ducks in a row because it’s “been approached by a couple of possible projects,” New Scotland Supervisor Douglas LaGrange said during the town board’s November meeting.

The increase, the first since 2009, raises minimum New Scotland senior household eligibility requirements from $29,000 to $50,000, and from $37,400 to $58,400.