Episode 48 – Building Hope: Dan Roth, Dutch Hollow, and the Spirit of the Season Recorded: November 18, 2025 Guest: Dan Roth, Principal of Dan Van LLC Episode Overview In this holiday-season edition of Montgomery County Now, Sheriff Jeff Smith brings listeners essential winter safety reminders, community updates, and an inspiring conversation with Air Force veteran and local developer Dan Roth. From housing challenges to economic revitalization, Dan shares the story behind Dutch Hollow Apartments and his new development, Maple Hollow. The episode closes with a roundup of November and December’s biggest community events. County Updates & Highlights Winter Weather Safety Upstate NY weather shifts quickly; expect sudden snow, wind, and freezing rain. Slow down, plan ahead, and travel with caution. Years of Service Awards Staff recognized for 1–30 years of service in the Sheriff’s Office. A community reminder to thank officers and county workers for their dedication. Hunting Season Reminders Firearm safety and legal regulations emphasized. Tips include weather prep, trigger discipline, knowing your target and beyond, and honoring trespass and distance laws. No Shame November Annual facial-hair fundraiser benefiting local causes. Donations already made to Santa’s Sled and Hunter’s Elves at Albany Med. Scam Prevention Never share personal information unless you initiated the contact. Delete suspicious texts, emails, and calls. When in doubt, call the Sheriff’s Office. Honoring Veterans Multiple ceremonies attended throughout the county. “Every day is Veterans Day” at the Sheriff’s Office. Accreditation Progress 911 Dispatch Division newly accredited. EMS, Civil, and Patrol Divisions already accredited. Jail accreditation currently underway. Major Projects at the Sheriff’s Office EMS house and garage under construction (USDA/BABA compliant). Cold-storage building installation. Verizon cell tower being built on-site, adding county revenue. Visitors warned of heavy truck and contractor traffic on campus. Featured Guest: Dan Roth (Dan Van LLC) About Dan Air Force veteran (2001–2019). Owner and principal of Dan Van LLC. Developer of the new Dutch Hollow active‑adult apartments in the Town of Amsterdam. The Dutch Hollow Project 40-unit, 55+ active adult community located near Aldi/Burger King. Units include: Private garage Private entrance Patio or deck Two bedrooms, one bath Full appliances Internet and cable $1,650/month (market rate) Built to be: Energy efficient (triple-pane windows, spray foam insulation, ERV systems) Locally sourced — 90% of materials and labor from Fulton & Montgomery Counties Affordable for seniors while helping younger families purchase existing homes A catalyst for school district stabilization, as families move into newly available housing Community Impact Residents forming new friendships and social groups. Older adults downsizing → younger families accessing homes → increased school enrollment. Dutch Hollow becoming a model for sustainable, local-first development. Maple Hollow Project (Announced) New development underway off Maple Avenue. Will not be age-restricted. Mirrors Dutch Hollow’s design philosophy: Private garages Private entryways Green space Energy-efficient technologies Infrastructure and environmental surveys currently in progress. Building With Purpose Dan credits the military with instilling discipline, planning, and determination. Emphasis on: Supporting local trades Creating dignified, affordable, energy-efficient housing Leaving Montgomery County better than he found it Community Events (Holiday Season 2025) November 28 – Amsterdam Tree Lighting South Side, City of Amsterdam 4 PM at the Gateway Bridge entrance November 29 – Salvation Army Toy Drive Starts at FMCC, ends at Fulton County Sheriff’s Office Unwrapped toys accepted in the Sheriff’s Office lobby December 5 – Light Up the Night (Village of Fonda) 6–8 PM at Annex Building & Village Park Holiday displays, decorated vehicles, and community activities December 6 – Canajoharie Elves Day Out Beginning at 11 AM Holiday events throughout the Village of Canajoharie December 6 – Tractor Light Parade & Farm-to-Table Tour Fonda Fairgrounds 2–5:30 PM Tractor parade, local vendors, and family activities December 13 – Fort Plain Lights Parade 6 PM in the Village of Fort Plain Festive lights and Santa’s park arrival Sheriff’s Office: Shop With a Cop 20 youth across the county receive $125 each Gift shopping at Walmart, Town of Amsterdam A beloved annual tradition supporting local families Closing Message Sheriff Smith reminds listeners to: Leave early Drive slowly Show empathy Be respectful Take care of one another during the holiday season For emergencies: 911 For non-emergencies: 518-853-5500 The Sheriff’s Office wishes everyone a safe Thanksgiving, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year. The next episode will return in early 2026.
