A Brief Meeting
by Doug Larocque with Chris Tergliafera
One of the issues before the board on Thursday, February 11, was the Tri-Town Ambulance proposal. Berlin’s board members have been behind the proposal from the start, particularly after the Grafton Rescue Squad picked up the town’s Certificate of Need, when the fire department ambulance ceased operations. Since then, Grafton has been (with mutual aid help at times) responsible for EMS calls in the town.
Berlin recently purchased a used ambulance, refitted and certified it, and now also responds to calls in the town when there is a crew available, saving the Grafton Squad from having to respond on occasions. As of the board meeting, those occasions number seven. The board remains concerned about the future of the Tri-Town proposal, particularly since the town boards in Grafton and Petersburgh have yet to sign on. The most recent developments, as reported in last week’s edition of The Eastwick Press, have prompted Berlin Town Supervisor Rob Jaeger to write a letter to the editor expressing his concerns. That letter appears on page 11.
Don’t Leave Fido In The Freezing Cold
That was a strong message from Dog Control Officer Doug Goodermote, who related a recent call where a small dog was left outside with the owner nowhere to be found. DCO Goodermote says if he hadn’t been called when he was, the dog might well have frozen to death.
Mr. Goodermote also said plans are underway for a Spring Rabies Clinic, the date for which has not yet been set.
Other News
Not much happening in the Highway Department except dealing with the numerous snow events. Superintendent Jim Winn says that that has caused some maintenance issues, and has taken a toll on the department’s stockpiles of sand and salt, both of which are being replenished.
There is a company expressing interest in the old laundromat along Route 22. They hope to possibly convert the existing structure, vacant for years, for an as of yet unidenified use, or possibly tear the structure down and rebuild. The site plan will have to go before the Planning Board.
Building Inspector Alan Yerton says there are plans for four new housing starts before him, and the board plans to hold its annual Justice audit after its February 28 workshop.