By Doug La Rocque
The Town of Hoosick has applications in to New York State for two major grants. The one that has been in a holding pattern the longest is the $925,000 Recreational State and Municipal Facilities (SAM) grant. It has been in the hands of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) for many months, with absolutely no word on its fate. DASNY is the state agency that oversees such grants and is notorious for taking a year or more to come to a conclusion. At the Monday, January 9 meeting of the Hoosick Town Board, Supervisor Mark Surdam said once again, despite repeated inquiries, they have heard nothing.
The other grant is newer—it’s only been a few months since the application was filed. That is for the replacement of the Cottrel Road Bridge, estimated to cost $1.98 million. The Town would have to bear 20 percent of that cost, about $99,000. Supervisor Surdam, who has been out on medical leave prior to this meeting, says he is looking into this grant as well. A Liability Insurance Policy for the Highway Department’s calcium chloride storage tank with Sterling & Marshall was approved.
Meeting Notes
Like the Village of Hoosick Falls, the town fathers have agreed to their annual contribution to the St. Patrick’s Parade Committee. The annual parade costs about $7,000 to put on. The parade is scheduled for Saturday, March 11. The Reynolds/Gilchrest Skating rink has only been open for three days so far. Warmer winter weather is the reason there. Rink Manager Ayla Senical says there are 70 people signed up for the learn to skate program, if there is ever ice to skate on.
The Board reappointed Sydney Stowell to the position of Pool Manager for 2023. Toni Hanselman was appointed to the Ice Rink Staff.
After discussing the Town’s Employee Compensation and Benefits Manual, Board members decided some updates were in order. A special meeting to conduct the annual Town Court Audit was scheduled for 6 pm on January 28.