Things Are Going Swimmingly At The Pool
by Doug La Rocque
The pool and summer camp programs are now well into the dog days of August. But things are certainly not going to the dogs, at least according to the reports given to the Hoosick Town Board at its August 10 meeting. Both programs are running as planned, with all COVID-19 precautions in place. The state permit to operate the camp is in hand and in fact, Rensselaer County has conducted its first inspection, and found no notable deficiencies. The annual Water Safety Instructor class is still set for the last weekend of August at the pool, and two new lifeguards have been appointed, Matthew Hart and Daniel Hunt, to replace others who are off to college.
Beck Road
The town highway department had plans to resurface about three-quarters of Beck Road but Highway Superintendent Bill Shiland asked the board to consider changing that plan, and do the entire road while they are at it. He estimate the cost to be an additional $128,000, something Town Supervisor Mark Surdam says is available in the budget. The board agreed and approved the change. According to Supervisor Surdam, work should commence in September.
Dirt Track Details
At the May 11 Town Board meeting, the Board voted to refer the matter of a motorcycle track on Eagle Bridge Road in West Hoosick to the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) to review the facts of the case and clarify exactly what the dividing line is between commercial and personal use. That report has been returned, and Supervisor Surdam asked the town board if it would like to approve it. Deputy Supervisor Eric Sheffer said he had a problem with it. He indicated he had built a small personal track for his 4-year old son on his property, and while the ZBA opinion said he could be joined by close family members, a neighbor or young friend was not permitted unless approved by the ZBA. He said there should be more clarity in such situations, to which Supervisor Surdam responded “I guess we are not done with it yet.” The track has been a sore point with residents of the area since last year.
Railroad Concerns
During the July 4, 2017 flooding, the rail crossing along Railroad Street was heavily washed out. There has been some repair work done, but according to Councilman Jerry McAuliffe, it is washing out underneath the tracks again, and needs more than a temporary fix. He is looking for Pan Am Railways to make some more permanent repairs. In the meantime, the speed limit for trains in that area has been lowered.
Workshop On Vacation Time
Supervisor Surdam brought up discussion about full time employees converting unused vacation time into sick time. Employees can collect for their unused sick time when leaving town service. He indicated that COVID-19 has played a role in this, and wants to consider some formula changes so the retirement of a long time worker doesn’t break the bank. The board has scheduled a workshop meeting to deal with the matter for Monday, August 24 at 6 pm.
Other Items Of Discussion
Councilman McAuliffe reported the Purple Heart Community Day on August 7 was a well attended ceremony. The board approved a $5,300 increase in its annual contribution to the Town of Hoosick Rescue Squad and also passed a resolution approving participation in the countywide Hazard Mitigation Plan. Watch where you step, the Immaculate Conception Church’s request to use the Athletic Field and Ice Rink for a Cow Plop, Antique Car Show and Vendor booths on October 11 was also blessed. The event will run from 7 am to 4 pm.
A request from the Hoosick Falls First Baptist Church to use the town pool for a short baptism service at 11 am on August 16 was approved as well.
The board retired into executive session before adjourning.