Police And Parks Highlight Board Discussion
by Denise Wright
Supplementing the police department was an important topic of discussion at the March 25 Schodack Town Board meeting. During the public comment section, one Schodack resident discussed the necessity for “drastic changes” because of safety issues near the Amazon complex and traffic concerns near Stewart’s just before Routes 9 and 20 split. He voiced a “24/7 need” for police staffing and encouraged the Board to “continue to promote the police’s needs.” The Board did approve Ralph Southworth’s appointment as a part-time police officer. It approved Phillip Finkle and Matthew Coon’s provisional appointment as part-time officers to attend the Zone 14 Police Academy. Supervisor Harris did mention, in response to the safety concerns about Amazon workers walking on Route 9, that the Board is in “final negotiations” in creating a bus stop with CDTA.
Another topic of conversation was Schodack parks. A project that two girl scouts would like to complete for their service award was brought to the Board. The scouts would like to install a wheelchair swing in the park. The Board is investigating the funding for the project and how best to assist the scouts. It also appointed Kevin Koning as part-time Park Manager. The Schodack summer camp’s plan is still being developed and the board hopes to finalize it in the next few weeks.
The Volunteer Ambulance Workers Service Award Program (SAP) List of all 2020 active Volunteer Ambulance Workers of the Castleton Volunteer Ambulance Services was approved. The Board authorized Supervisor Harris to certify PENFLEX, Inc to determine funding, requirements, and benefits to be paid to eligible persons.”