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 garagePrivate entrancePatio or deckTwo bedrooms, one bathFull appliancesInternet 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 CountiesAffordable for seniors while helping younger families purchase existing homesA catalyst for school district stabilization, as families move into newly available housingCommunity 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 garagesPrivate entrywaysGreen spaceEnergy-efficient technologiesInfrastructure and environmental surveys currently in progress.Building With Purpose
Dan credits the military with instilling discipline, planning, and determination.Emphasis on: Supporting local tradesCreating dignified, affordable, energy-efficient housingLeaving Montgomery County better than he found itCommunity Events (Holiday Season 2025)
November 28 – Amsterdam Tree Lighting
South Side, City of Amsterdam4 PM at the Gateway Bridge entranceNovember 29 – Salvation Army Toy Drive
Starts at FMCC, ends at Fulton County Sheriff’s OfficeUnwrapped toys accepted in the Sheriff’s Office lobbyDecember 5 – Light Up the Night (Village of Fonda)
6–8 PM at Annex Building & Village ParkHoliday displays, decorated vehicles, and community activitiesDecember 6 – Canajoharie Elves Day Out
Beginning at 11 AMHoliday events throughout the Village of CanajoharieDecember 6 – Tractor Light Parade & Farm-to-Table Tour
Fonda Fairgrounds2–5:30 PMTractor parade, local vendors, and family activitiesDecember 13 – Fort Plain Lights Parade
6 PM in the Village of Fort PlainFestive lights and Santa’s park arrivalSheriff’s Office: Shop With a Cop
20 youth across the county receive $125 eachGift shopping at Walmart, Town of AmsterdamA beloved annual tradition supporting local familiesClosing Message
Sheriff Smith reminds listeners to:
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.
