by Doug La Rocque
Hoosick Town Codes Enforcement Officer (CEO) Lloyd Moses has informed the Town Board that he will be leaving office on August 19. Mr. Moses has agreed to come in one day a week to deal with building permits until his replacement can be found. Speaking with The Eastwick Press following the Monday, August 8 meeting, Hoosick Town Supervisor Mark Surdam admitted “It leaves the Town in a bit of a lurch.” The Councilors agreed to begin the search for a replacement immediately through various forms of advertising and networking.
Also discussed that evening was changing the CEO to a full time position. Supervisor Surdam indicating he feels the scope of the job as it currently stands requires such a time commitment. Deputy Supervisor Eric Sheffer also suggesting the Town conduct an exit interview with Mr. Moses to enhance their comprehension of what the job really entails.
Dealing With Dumping
At the Board’s July meeting, the problem with people dumping trash and other items on Wilson Hill Road was discussed. Posting signs was one proposed answer along with word of mouth and vigilance by residents reporting anyone they see trashing the road. The signage portion of the possible answers was discussed at this meeting, with Highway Superintendent Paul Hoag indicating signs would cost about $60 to $65 dollars each. Supervisor Surdam asked the Board to authorize the expenditure of up to $1,000 dollars to purchase such signs for placement around the Town. Deputy Supervisor Sheffer said he would look into the required verbiage and just what the fine for dumping should be, in conjunction with the Town Attorney.
Just Too Hot
Summer Camp Director Ashley St. Onge said some of this year’s programs had to be moved inside because of the intense heat. The program received $500 form the WGY Christmas Wish Fund and $350 from the tips jar at Hoosick Provisions. Both the Summer Camp and the Swim Program passed their annual inspections with no violations.
Other News and Notes
The Town has approved a new three-year contract with Teamsters Local 294 which takes effect January 1, 2023. The Board has approved a motion to accept the second round of American Rescue Plan Act monies totaling $173,384 and earmarked the funding to go toward highway improvement projects. The Councilors also approved the purchase of a used roller, which the Highway Department has been using and likes.
The Bennington Battlefield Reenactment takes place this weekend with a commemoration ceremony scheduled for 7 pm on August 16. Supervisor Surdam said the Town is just waiting for final New York State approval for their $925,000 Recreational SAM grant.