The Eastwick Press Newspaper

Eastern Rensselaer County's Community Newspaper

Local News

First Hoosick Land Use Workshop Held

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by Bea Peterson

 

Windmills, greenhouses, fences and riding stables were some of the topics reviewed at the first Hoosick Land Use workshop held on Thursday, September 11 at the Armory. Eight interested residents, members of the Land Use Commission, Marianne Zwicklbauer, Rensselaer County representative Linda von der Heide, Gail Delurey, John Smith, Ellen Scott, and Wally Sheffer, Sr., Supervisor Marilyn Douglas and Hoosick Building Inspector Ed King made up the group that gathered around four tables and for an hour discussed various aspects of the draft law. Points brought up by each table were then discussed by everyone present. A concern of all the tables was what defines the hamlet of West Hoosick, an issue they

Principal Planner for Rensselaer County Economic Development Linda von der Heide (glasses) went over portions of the Land Use Law with Everett Quackenbush, Marianne Zwicklbauer and John Smith at last Thursday’s workshop. Behind her Town Supervisor Marilyn Douglas discusses the Law with another of the workshop groups. (Bea Peterson photo)
Principal Planner for Rensselaer County Economic Development Linda von der Heide (glasses) went over portions of the Land Use Law with Everett Quackenbush, Marianne Zwicklbauer and John Smith at last Thursday’s workshop. Behind her Town Supervisor Marilyn Douglas discusses the Law with another of the workshop groups. (Bea Peterson photo)

hope to clarify at the West Hoosick meeting in October. Site plans and size restrictions were questioned regarding greenhouses and riding stables. Should windmills require a special permit? Five acre density was discussed. If a farmer sells an acre of land to someone to build a house on, then four acres should be set aside as forever farmland. The desire is that, for example, on a 100 acre plot, 20 houses could be built on one acre lots and 80 acres would remain farmland. Or 20 houses on two acre lots, 160 acres remaining farmland.

The difference between manufactured homes, mobile homes and doublewides was discussed. Should they be required to have foundations or are slabs sufficient. Roof pitch was also discussed. 

Clarification of some sections of the draft were requested. Copies of the 42 page draft law are available for review at the Hoosick Town Hall in the Armory and at the Cheney Library. Meetings by hamlet will be held on September 18 at the Buskirk Fire Hall, October 6 at the North Hoosick Fire Hall, October 15 at the Hoosick Fire Hall and October 22 at the West Hoosick Fire Hall. After these meetings the Commission will review the comments they have gathered, incorporate any changes, make corrections and then, in December or January, they will hold another Public Hearing to further review the law.

Hoosick Rescue Squad Recognizes Honorary Members

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Hoosick Rescue Squad members were on hand as Squad President Bill Gaillard (far right) bestowed Honorary Membership to (l-r) Alan Bornt, Walter Zwinge and Thomas Witkowski Wednesday evening. (Bea Peterson photo)
Hoosick Rescue Squad members were on hand as Squad President Bill Gaillard (far right) bestowed Honorary Membership to (l-r) Alan Bornt, Walter Zwinge and Thomas Witkowski Wednesday evening. (Bea Peterson photo)

 

 

by Bea Peterson

On Wednesday evening, September 17, members of the Rescue Squad gathered to grant Honorary Membership to Alan Bornt for his contribution of knowledge on the radio system that helps the community. He shared this knowledge during the Squad’s frequency change earlier in the year.

Walter Zwinge is caretaker of the Time-Warner facility which houses the radio transmission equipment as well as the cable translators. Squad members say he is always available when they need access to the facility on Oak Street.

Thomas Witkowski was honored for the work he and his crew do in cleaning the Rescue Squad quarters and ambulances and mowing and trimming of the grounds on a weekly basis.

Hoosick Rescue Squad President Bill Gaillard said, “We thank all of these people who have made our lives easier.”

Break In At Petersburgh Town Garage

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by Alex Brooks

At the Petersburgh Town Board meeting on Monday evening Highway Superintendent Ray Harrison said someone broke into the Town Highway Garage on Tuesday night, September 9, but they didn’t take anything. They took out a screwdriver and crescent wrench and removed a radiator grille from an old car back there, but left the tools and the grille lying around. Harrison also said the County paved over the new culvert on East Hollow Road this week and that project is completed.

PVMCC Sets Goals For 2009

Susan Nelsen gave her monthly report to the Board about the Petersburgh Veterans Memorial Community Center (PVMCC). She said the PVMCC Board set goals for itself for the coming year. Among these were completion of the capital project, development of a program expansion, development of some annual fund-raising events, seeking ways to make PVMCC and its building “greener” and continuing to seek grants and develop volunteer programs. Nelsen also noted that from 2006 to the present, the PVMCC has secured $95,810 in grant funding, $20,810 for program and $75,000 for capital improvements.

Rensselaer Plateau Alliance

Jim Bonesteel of the Rensselaer Plateau Alliance gave a presentation about his organization and their efforts to develop a conservation plan for the Plateau. The area he calls the Rensselaer Plateau is more or less the area between Route 22 and the Brunswick Town line on the east-west axis and from Route 7 to Route 43 on the north-south axis.  He said it is one of New York State’s largest intact forest ecosystems, comprising about 105,000 acres. He noted that the Audubon Society has designated it as an important area for bird habitat.

Bonesteel said his group advocates for conservation of the Plateau and seeks to preserve wildlife habitat and the rural character of the area and to promote commercial uses consistent with such preservation. Some that he mentioned were recreation businesses, hospitality and tourism, maple syrup, logging and the like.

Bonesteel said his group has applied for a grant to write a Conservation Plan for the Plateau, and if they get it, they will be holding a series of workshops aimed at soliciting input from residents and town officials to be included in the plan. He was seeking the cooperation and participation of the Town of Petersburgh in this process.

After he finished his presentation, Ray Broadwell asked him how he expects the plan to be enforced.  Bonesteel said his group’s project is more about creating a plan than creating regulations. He spoke of “raising consciousness” and “energizing non-profits to protect important areas” and said his group is not looking to raise the regulatory burden.

Broadwell remained skeptical and said he thinks there is too much regulation in America and he thinks the conservation plan is likely at some point to lead to restrictions which are going to cost somebody some money.

Bonesteel said the Conservation Plan is an $80,000 project and the grant request is for $60,000. He said it would be used to hire a facilitator to run the public meetings, a GIS mapper and an ecologist. He asked the Town Board to pass a resolution supporting the project. Broadwell said, “I don’t think this is anything we need to get into.”

No one else on the Board seemed much interested in getting involved with the project either, so Supervisor Mason Hubbard suggested to Bonesteel that if his group gets the grant, he should come back and they could talk further about the project.

Clearing Brush In Cemeteries

Ed Jones, who mows the cemeteries for the Town, asked the Town Board if they would like him to clear brush in some of the cemeteries that are not mowed. He estimated it would be about a week’s work and said it would cost $400-$500. After checking to make sure there was still enough money left in the cemetery mowing account to cover it, the Board authorized the work cleaning up the cemeteries. Some Board members also remarked that they were very pleased with Mr. Jones’ work mowing the cemeteries and the grass around the Town buildings.

Bill’s List

Bill Seel had a few things to inquire about. He asked if the Building Inspector’s phone answering message had been changed to announce the hours when he is available at the Town Hall (Saturday mornings 9-12). No one was sure. He asked why there were solar panels on the Memorial Hall – he didn’t recall anything about solar panels in the work authorized there. Sue Nelsen said he should talk to Dave Sadowsky about it. He asked if an inventory of the Town Highway Garage had been done. Everyone, including Highway Superintendent Ray Harrison, looked puzzled. Seel said an inventory is supposed to be done every year, although no one present had ever seen one. Seel said he thought it should be done.

Seel also said it was his understanding that the Board had reached a consensus at the June meeting that they would not commit to a particular sum in the matter of assisting with the purchase of a new ambulance until they were putting together next year’s budget. He felt that the Board’s resolution committing to $20,000 per year at the special meeting last week, which Seel did not attend, took away their opportunity to look at that sum in the context of the overall budget picture. Supervisor Mason Hubbard said that resolution was contingent on approval of the terms of the service agreement by the Town Attorney, so the town is not fully committed until it signs a service agreement.

Hinsdale Shines At Stephentown Muster Event

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The water polo contest is hotly contested at the Stephentown Muster. Photo by Chuck Riccardi.
The water polo contest is hotly contested at the Stephentown Muster. Photo by Chuck Riccardi.

 

 

by David Flint

The Hinsdale Fire Department was the shining star at the annual Stephentown Fireman’s Muster & Community Day on Sunday, grabbing first place in three of the events. Hinsdale won the Dry Hose, the Midnight Alarm and the Rotary Pump competitions and took third place in the Moving Motor Hose event. 

In the Dry Hose event, Hinsdale with a time of 14.03 seconds was followed by Lee with 14.5 seconds and Whately with a time of 14.9. Hinsdale did the Midnight Alarm in 30.4 seconds, followed again by Lee with 36.8 seconds and Lenoxdale with 38.5. Following on Hinsdale’s leading time of 29.31 seconds in the Rotary Pump competition was Whately with 32.9 seconds. The only other team in that event was Bisselville which did not succeed in getting a recorded time. 

Lee took first place in the Centrifugal Pump competition with a time of 31.7 seconds,

Doug Rontey (Yellow Helmet) and Mark Mazzeo (Black Helmet) of the Stephentown Fire Dept. competing in the Oil Fire Competition. Photo by Chuck Riccardi.
Doug Rontey (Yellow Helmet) and Mark Mazzeo (Black Helmet) of the Stephentown Fire Dept. competing in the Oil Fire Competition. Photo by Chuck Riccardi.

followed by Lebanon Valley with 40.5 and Lenoxdale with 44.7. Lee was also first in the Oil Fire event, dousing the flames in 19.6 seconds. Stephentown took second place in that event with a time of 22.6 seconds. Whately was third with 23.6 seconds. 

 

Whately won the Moving Motor Hose event with a time of 26.6 seconds. Lenoxdale came in second with 28.3 seconds followed by Hinsdale with 29.1 seconds. 

Though they didn’t lead in the Muster events, Stephentown was not to be trifled with in Friday night’s Water Polo contest. Their #2  team in men’s competition came out on top in that event. Stephentown has swept the Water Polo contest in at least two of the past three years. Second place this year was taken by Hancock. In the Women’s competition, Bisselville placed first and Stephentown was second.

 

On The Nozzle. Renee Baker and John Zwack, both of the Stephentown Fire Dept.) on the nozzle during the Moving Motor Hose” event at the Stephentown Fire Department Muster last Saturday. Photo by Chuck Riccardi.
On The Nozzle: Renee Baker and John Zwack, both of the Stephentown Fire Dept., on the nozzle during the Moving Motor Hose event at the Stephentown Fire Department Muster last Saturday. Photo by Chuck Riccardi.

Grafton Historical Society Learns Cemetery Preservation

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Joe Ferrannini demonstrates gravestone restoration procedures to Grafton Historical Society members last Saturday at the Grafton Cemetery. (Judith Radford photo)
Joe Ferrannini demonstrates gravestone restoration procedures to Grafton Historical Society members last Saturday at the Grafton Cemetery. (Judith Radford photo)

 

 

 by Judith Radford

On Saturday, September 13, at 9 am members of the Grafton Historical Society Cemetery Committee met at the Grafton Cemetery and welcomed Joseph A. Ferrannini of Grave Stone Matters out of Hoosick Falls.  Ferrannini, an expert on preserving old cemeteries and headstones, presented a hands-on seminar to demonstrate the correct way to clean, repair and reset grave markers according to long established restoration procedures.  

Members of the Historical Society have long been interested and involved in preserving local cemeteries and did quite a bit of research to find the right person to help them how to do it properly.  Members attending were Dorothy Surprise, Joe Ferrannini, Dick Wagar, Gordon Gundrum and Bob Goyer.  Also in attendance was Les Radford who has spearheaded an effort on Lake Elizabeth in Grafton to clean up their very old and covered over cemetery.  

The seminar went on all day with Ferranninni outlining the tools and materials needed for gravestone cleaning projects.  He described the different types of stones and actually demonstrated the procedure on some old stones.  Anyone interested in more information on this topic may contact Dorothy Surprise at 279-3298, email dsurprise@aol.com, or Joe Ferrannini at 424-9562, email jaferrannini@aol.com. 

 

 

  

Berlin Town Board Action – Private Property Versus Public Good

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by Kieron Kramer

Generally, municipalities in eastern Rensselaer County take a good, long time before forcing a private property owner to demolish an unsafe building or to remedy an eyesore. It is not just the number of procedures required by State Municipal Law and the time required between the various steps that makes the process so lengthy and so rare, but there is a respect for private property that is ingrained in the American psyche and which is stronger, particularly in small rural towns, than the motive to act for the common good. However, the Town of Berlin has moved with all deliberate speed to force Ronald Snow, an East Arlington, VT, resident, to either repair or raze his garage on North Main Street which has been deemed a dangerous building by Berlin Code Enforcement Officer Allen Yerton.

Two months ago the Town Board voted to serve notice on Snow informing him that he had  to repair or demolish the garage. Last month, at a public hearing before the regular meeting, Snow asked for an indefinite amount of time to repair the building, but he did say he would board it up within 25 days to keep people out of the structure that Yerton maintained could collapse at any moment. According to Board Member Jim Saunders, Snow has boarded up the building.

At this month’s regular meeting on Thursday, September 11, the Board voted 3-0 to publish a request for bids to demolish the garage, with Board Member Carl Greene and  Jim Saunders abstaining. Town Supervisor Robert Jaeger had made the motion to publish; Board Member George Shuhart seconded. When Jaeger asked Greene and Saunders for their votes, a silence followed that was almost as long as the full minute of silence observed for the anniversary of 9/11 at the beginning of the meeting. Finally, at Town Attorney Don Tate’s suggestion, Greene and Saunders agreed to abstain. The resolution passed when Board Member Sheila Hewitt joined  with a yes vote at the end of the deliberations.

Greene had requested that the letter to Snow informing him of the publishing of the bid request  should make it clear that if he filed a building permit and began repairing the building the Town would halt the process. The Board agreed to include this, and Tate said that if Snow could satisfy the Board it would be the best case scenario. “It would be foolish to demolish the building then, and we could reject the bids,” he said. 

Billy Hammersmith pointed out that the demolition of the building might be complicated and expensive. The structure abuts the road, which is a County road, and part of the building is on the County right of way. The County might have requirements for the work and the fill. Tate suggested that the Board resolve now to publish the bid request but delay the actual publication and the due date so that the specifications can be developed after talking to the County Engineer. Yerton added that this extra time would give Snow the opportunity to file a building permit and begin work if he was inclined to do so. 

Hammersmith said that not only will you have to demolish the building and remove the debris but that the fill would have to be trucked in and covered with topsoil. Contractors would not leave their equipment there overnight so they will be trucking machinery back and forth. Jaeger said that he thought the project would cost between $3,000 and $5,000. Hammersmith said it “would be more than that,” but he wouldn’t say how much because he expects to bid on the project. Saunders said, “If it comes out to $50,000, we haven’t got the money to do it.” 

The expense for this kind of Town-ordered work is usually charged back to the property owner on his property tax bill. However, Jaeger said that the cost of demolishing and removing the debris from the old gas station on Main Street a couple of years ago was never recouped because the demolition charges were not filed with the County to be included on the tax bill. Town Clerk Anne Maxon concurred that the $16,000 spent to demolish the old gas station was never recouped.

Code Enforcement Officer Yerton asked if there was a Town resolution setting the policy regarding the length of a demolition permit. “I understand that a 3-year demo permit was issued before I took office,” he said. He has learned from his training classes that the term of a demolition permit is usually 60 days, often 30 days.

Energy Conservation

One concern on everybody’s mind is how to stay warm over the winter. Even though the price of oil has just fallen below $100 per barrel, there is no guarantee that it won’t go up, and many, because of soaring prices this summer, have already entered into contracts with local fuel oil suppliers that set the price for the home heating oil they will buy this winter at well above $4 per gallon. Lots of people in the northeast will be paying twice as much to heat their homes this winter as they did last winter. For people on fixed incomes this is a devastating blow. 

Frank Mace, who lives on Main Street in Berlin and who works in the Residential Efficiency and Affordability Program at NYSERDA, spoke at the beginning of this meeting to inform Berliners that there are a number of State programs in place to help New Yorkers reduce their energy consumption, pay for energy conservation renovations and fund renewable energy projects. He left a number of pamphlets and information sheets in the Town Hall for the public to take. Most of the programs have to do with insulation and electricity conservation. Some give information on how to reduce energy use through the Energy Star program; others give contact numbers for grants and low interest loans to finance the installation of insulation and energy efficient windows and appliances. Presumably, the money saved on electric bills can help pay for heating oil. Interested parties can call 1-877-NYsmart or log onto www.getenergysmart.org for more information.

Supervisor Jaeger announced that he had received a phone call from a Texas company regarding the possibility of erecting windmills in Berlin. He referred the company to Zoning Board of Appeals Chairman Don French because a special use permit would be needed to put up a windmill. The Texans are also considering a location in Averill Park. Mace said that NYSERDA has the entire state wind-mapped so you can tell how much wind there is at any location and how high you would have to build the windmill. “Is this a pretty windy area?” one resident asked, prompting wisecracks and snickers.

Town To Share Services With BCS

Jaeger announced that he had received notification from NYS  that there are grant opportunities available for municipalities to develop shared services. The grants start at $200,000, he said. He informed the Board that the Berlin Central School District, for whom he works as a school bus driver, is renovating and modernizing its fueling station. The idea of purchasing gas and diesel under the School District’s bid was discussed at previous Board meetings. Jaeger suggested that the Town could apply for a shared services grant and use the money to help fund the School District’s fueling station. The Town trucks would then be able to fuel up 24/7 at the fueling station using a key code for each vehicle to keep track of use. The Fire District might also share in the fuel purchase and fueling station. At present, when the Town vehicles need gas, they purchase it by credit card at the Mobil Station in New Lebanon because it is the nearest  station the Town has a credit card for. 

Highway Superintendent Jim Winn asked about the liability if there were a fuel spill at the fueling station. Town Attorney Tate said the liability would spread among the three entities and, besides, the exposure would be minimized because the facility would be better than the fueling station at the Town Garage. Winn said he would still purchase some fuel from the County, under whose bid he buys it now, because he “doesn’t want to burn  any bridges with the County.”

The Board voted unanimously to enter into a shared services relationship with the Berlin School District to buy and use fuel, to use the BCS fueling station and to use Town shared services grant money, if received, to help fund the renovation of the District’s fueling station.

Highway

Winn reported that the Highway Department has been busy “running around patching” and making up chip seal. The chip sealing will begin in 10 to 14 days. Winn said that the County has come out to “shim” CC Dam Road, that is – smooth out the sand and oil  mixture that is put down on road surfaces. Berlin has been helping the County with their chip sealing projects by carrying stone to the chipper because the Berlin trucks have chipper bars. The County has been hauling blacktop to Berlin for the patching. He also said that Stephentown has come up and ditched Bly Hollow Road to the top of the hill. “Now we have to reshape the road,” he added. Winn has borrowed the Town of Nassau roller and used it to pack down the roads that he has graveled and reshaped.

Winn said that Erdmann Anthony & Associates, an engineering firm from Troy, completed its first monitoring of the Southeast Hollow Road bridge. The Town plans to replace the  bridge with a culvert-bridge like the  one the County installed on East Hollow Road in Petersburgh. To rebuild the bridge would cost $200,00 easily, Winn said. Winn is getting a rough idea from Chemung of the cost of the culvert  and the cost of the concrete.  He thinks the culvert-bridge will cost 1/3 the amount needed to replace the bridge. The culvert will have a span just under 20 feet to avoid future inspections by the County but will be higher in order to accommodate the volume of water in the brook.

Surplus Equipment Bids

Bids for Berlin’s surplus highway equipment were opened at this meeting. The items bid on were a 1992 Ford one ton truck, a 1964 Cat loader and a 1972 John Deere bulldozer. Henry Ruebel of Berlin bid $350 for the Ford, $3,500 for the loader and $2,500 for the dozer. Jason Saunders of Cherry Plain bid $550 for the Ford, $1,202 for the loader and $3,203 for the dozer. Darryl Maxon of Cherry Plain bid only on the bulldozer, $1,250. James Brundige of Petersburgh bid only on the bulldozer, $3,501. David Thurber bid on the Ford, $400, and the loader, $900. The Board accepted the high bids for each item – Ruebel’s $3,500 bid for the Cat loader, Saunders’ $550 bid for the Ford truck and Brundige’s $3,501 bid for the John Deere bulldozer.

Board Member Carl Greene asked if  the 1970 Gradall G600 and the two surplus sanders should be put out to bid. The Board and Winn’s consensus is that these items are junk, but it was agreed that if no attractive bids were received, the Town would sell them for junk so the Board voted to publish a request for bids.

Considering the cost of heating oil, one would have expected that the replacement of the Town Garage doors with new, insulated doors would be high on the agenda, but it wasn’t until the end of the meeting when Kent Goodermote reminded the Board of Board Member George Shuhart’s request to buy the doors last spring. “Now is the time you will need them,” Goodermote said. Jaeger replied that they had put off purchasing the doors in order to “make sure we had money until the end of the year.” The proposal Shuhart got last spring was for $3,200 for two doors. “They have already gone up 20%,” Shuhart said. Jaeger said, “George’s point is well taken.” A resident suggested that the money from the sale of the surplus equipment could be used to buy the doors.

Transfer Station

“Everything is running good at the Transfer Station,” Ivan Wager said. The Town was charged only for the labor for replacing the rollers on the containers that needed them. The rusted-out side of one container cost $495 to repair; when the second container is empty a similar repair will be done to that. Waste Management won’t pull the containers if they are in bad condition, Wager said.

Wager has been negotiating a new waste hauling contract with Waste Management. He said they will probably stay with a 5% increase across the board even though he has been trying to “whittle them down.” This will result in a $5 to $7 increase per haul, he said. This increase includes the tipping fee; there will be no fuel surcharge. Wager is still negotiating the price of newspaper disposal, and he asked the Board for authorization to sign the contract with Waste Management if the increase in newspaper charges is 5% or less. Town Supervisor Jaeger said, “If they are within that range, go ahead.”

Youth Programs

Tammy Osterhout reported on the Youth Program. She said that 52 kids enrolled in the swim program. Use of the Hoosick Town Pool will rise to $40 per child next year, she said. All the bills for the summer programs have been paid except for the bus costs to the Hoosick pool because that bill hasn’t been received yet, she said. Osterhout said that 43 children went to the Schaghticoke Fair, with Kathy Burdick donating $11 to make up the difference in the admission cost of $17 so the 43rd child could attend. Osterhout said this will be the last year for the Fair because the $720 budgeted for it could be better used in the programs. The Halloween party will take place on Friday, October 31, from 6 to 8 pm – or maybe later since it is a Friday. Osterhout said that the stove donated by Todd and Sheila Hewitt has been moved into the Watipi building. She thanked Carl and Jimmy. She will attend a seminar on obtaining arts grants that is being held in Petersburgh. She said that grants for as much as $5,000 are available.

Game Night

Osterhout was heartened by the Youth Commission meeting held earlier in the evening. Amy Buck and Sarah Pettibone attended and volunteered to supervise game nights on October 11 and 25 in the Watipi Building. Game night will run from 6 to 9 pm with children in grades 3 to 5 attending in the first hour and sixth to twelfth-graders attending from 7 to 9. The younger kids will have to be signed in and out by their parents. The older kids can sign in themselves, but once they leave they can’t return. More game nights will be planned if the first two are well attended, Osterhout said.

Dogs, Dogs, Dogs

Dog Control Officer Doug Goodermote reported that ever since it appeared in the Eastwick Press last month that he is only responsible for dogs he got more calls than ever. “I don’t know if they can read or what,” he said. Most were people trying to get rid of cats. Goodermote also reported a few dog barking complaints – two in the village and one on Cold Spring Road. He also announced that the fall rabies clinic would be held on October 16 at the Berlin Highway Garage. Inoculations cost $10 each, cash only. Cats will be treated from 6 to 7 pm and dogs from 7 to 8 pm. If you have questions, Goodermote can be contacted at 658-3308.

Planning Board Vacancy

Chairwoman of the Planning Board, Pam Gerstel, announced that Christine Young has resigned from that Board. Now the Planning Board is looking for a regular member as well as an alternate. Jaeger asked, “Anyone interested in one exciting night out a month?” The Planning Board will meet this month to consider a site plan for a subdivision in center Berlin.

Cells Towers

Jaeger reported that three or four private individuals have been approached by Verizon for the use of their land for possible cell phone tower sites. Others interested in hosting a tower can go on the Verizon website and register. Verizon will deal directly with the landowners. According to Jaeger, the lawyer for Verizon indicated that they are looking for two sites in Berlin. For optimal coverage, the towers will be located on either side of Route 22 as it meanders through the valley.

New Carpet In Town Hall

Town Justice Joe Rechen has applied for a grant in the amount of $5,050 through the Justice Court system to re-carpet the Town Hall, which also serves as the Town Court. The Board unanimously voted to file the application and signed the cover letter that will be sent to the Justice Court with the grant application.

The Gladioli 

Beautification Project 

Towards the end of the meeting Supervisor Jaeger read a letter from Don Calman asking the Board  for its support in the gladioli project. Calman’s letter eloquently states the case.

“Our trial gladioli bed has been planted, cared for and flowered profusely, as the Town Board members must be aware. The many unsolicited personal, phone and mail comments from Town residents have strongly indicated the program was a huge success.

All of the materials and labor for the trial bed were contributed at no cost. We have learned several ways to reduce the anticipated costs; however, in expanding to an additional greater number of flowerbeds throughout the Route 22 corridor, it cannot be expected that all will be accomplished without cost, which brings us to purpose of this report.

Now is the time for the Board to indicate whether it wishes to support, continue and greatly expand this program, which will greatly enhance the appearance and image of Berlin╔with all the direct and indirect benefits to the Town.

Each additional new bed will cost about $500-$600 (digging the bed, buying the bulbs and soil/compost materials, some labor) for the initial planting, with subsequent years for each bed costing about $150-$200 (soil/composting materials, some bulb replacement and some labor). Much of the required labor should continue to be donated through the High School Community Service program. 

It is expected that some part of the overall cost can be raised from local companies, individuals and organizations, but for this to be a truly endorsed Town project some financial support is required from the Town Board. Without that financial support the project remains a personal project, which will not be sustainable.

This request is for $2,000 to be allocated for 2009 and $1,500 for 2010. It is projected, but not guaranteed, that any ongoing Town financing should not be needed if the companies, individual and organization solicitations are successful. I offer to manage the project and fund-raising while seeking a future replacement manager from within the Town. Hopefully, The Board will recognize this as an appropriate investment in the Town’s well being.

Respectfully,

Donald R. Calman”

It was obvious from the reaction in the room that the gladioli bed in front of the Bank of America was universally appreciated. “It sure looked nice,” said Board Member Jim Saunders. It was obvious to anyone who followed the project that it took a great deal of time, effort and good will to plant this one bed. It was also obvious that the Board was reluctant to support the project with money. Board Member Sheila Hewitt said, “I am concerned about adding anything to the budget. Everything is going up, and people cannot afford extra at this point.” She suggested private donations. Carl Greene asked if Calman had looked into the I Love NY grant program. Hewitt said that donations and work can be used to obtain matching funds. Calman replied that he won’t pursue grant money or donations until the Board supports the project. He said the Town should look at it as an investment, not as an expense.

The Board decided to wait for the budget process to begin before making any commitment. “Taxes will go up, but we need to control how much,” Jaeger said. Requests from department heads are due on September 20 with a tentative budget proposal to be circulated to the Board on September 30. Presumably the tentative budget will be presented at the October Board meeting. Jaeger thanked Calman “for all your work.” Later, Carl Greene said, “We really appreciate the people who donate a lot to the Town. We do the most with the little we have.” Of course, the Town sometimes has to respond with more than a ‘thank you very much’ if it hopes to continue to enjoy the extraordinary contributions of its more community-minded citizens. Money talks, after all. Even a token allocation of funds might ensure the sprouting of gladioli up and down Route 22.

In other business the Board:

• heard from Len Clapp that Water District #1 is running smoothly;

• heard from Jim Winn that Water District #2 is quiet and that the cross connection control plan presented to the Board needs to be adopted by the Board; Jaeger said it would be on next month’s agenda;

• heard from Shuhart that the air conditioner did not work because of a faulty electrical outlet and that he fixed the outlet and oiled the hinges of the Town Hall door;

• heard from Carl Greene that the Little Hoosic Watershed Association was preparing for its meeting with representatives from the US Division of Fish and Wildlife;

• heard from Saunders that the sidewalk project will be completed soon;

• responded positively to Billy Hammersmith’s suggestion that the Town issue vouchers for use as tax deductions for donations of time or equipment to Town projects;

• heard from Kent Goodermote that two streetlights have recently gone out.

Grafton Town Board Action – September 2008

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by Judith Radford

On Thursday, September 11, the Grafton Town Board held its regular monthly meeting starting promptly at 7 pm. Two members, Ed Fredricks, III and Mike Crandall were not present. Following the Pledge of Allegiance and the usual procedural matters Supervisor Allison Kirchner asked for department reports. 

Reports

Superintendent of Highways Herbert Hasbrouck reported that the Highway Department is working hauling sand in preparation for the winter. He also said they are working on the ditches on Dunham Reservoir Road and are planning on repairing the road in coordination with the County Highway Department using a new cold coal mix. He said the County will be doing the paving and, in return, they will be able to use some of the Town’s equipment. This is experimental and how it works out will determine whether we use this material in the future. 

Tom Withcuskey, Code Enforcement Officer, reported 42 building permits have been issued so far in 2008 with 35 of them being outstanding from 2007. He went on to inform everyone that this is the time of the year when residents could be installing new boilers, stoves or chimneys. A building permit is required for these installations. 

Junior Rescue Squad Started

Donna Baldwin of the Grafton Rescue Squad reported that there were 11 calls during the month of August, 64.6 volunteer hours were expended and they traveled 288 miles. The squad also supported several local endeavors such as the Triathlon, Run for the Roses and the ROUSE picnic. 

Baldwin told everyone about the new Junior Squad they have started in order to attract younger people into this valuable town service. The program is open to 15 and 16 year olds. Recruits will come to drills and meetings. They will not be able to ride along on a call until they are 16. Participants will spend 120 days in the program and will receive CPR training. The program will bring ROTC credit and one individual has already joined, Baldwin’s son. If anyone is interested, she asks that you either call the Squad or reach her at home. Her number is listed in the phone book. 

The Supervisor’s Report for August and the Town Clerk’s Report for the month of August were both approved and copies can be obtained at the Town Clerk’s Office.

Supervisor Kirchner said the Summer Program was over and was extremely successful this year with Kathy Mason Wagar as Director. A quilt made by the children was presented to the Town by Kirchner. Councilwoman Messenger said she had visited the program during the summer and she wanted everyone to know the counselors were doing an excellent job and were genuinely interested in what they were accomplishing with the children. 

Eagle Renewed

Supervisor Kirchner wanted to thank Pete Clemente for the beautiful job he did renewing the paint on the eagle in front of the Town Hall. Clemente is the individual who carved the eagle and donated it to the Town. He owns a wood carving business on Route 7 which is quite impressive.

A Wandering Goat

A report was received from Dan Wagar, the Grafton Dog Control Officer. There were 14 animal control issues during July and August. Anyone wishing to see the complete report may do so at the Town Hall. Issues listed varied from stray dog to a wandering pigmy goat on South Road. 

Supervisor Kirchner reported on the following communications received since the last meeting:

ź a letter was received from the Grafton Trail Riders asking for a variance of the Town Code, Chapter 161, Mobile Home Park; a resolution will follow;

ź an email was received from Sherri Willis regarding a leak at the Senior Center.

Pick-Up Truck Purchase 

The discussion regarding the purchase of a new pick up truck for the Highway Department continued. According to Hasbrouck, the base price for the new pick-up ranges between $18,346 and $27,164. He has received estimates from several dealerships and so far no one has been able to beat the original $18,346 price. He is still waiting for an estimate from Ford and Action.

Meteorological Tower

Supervisor Kirchner asked for Town Board approval of Resolution #90 asking for the waiver of the new tower application fee requirement under Town Code Section 213-20 regarding RP Wind NY (formerly Reunion Power) placing a temporary Meteorological Tower (MET) on property located off North Long Pond Way. The relief was requested to pay a co-location application fee of $1,500 rather than the fee for a new tower as listed in the Town fee schedule since the MET is temporary and will not be in place for more than two years. The resolution is based upon the recommendation of the Town’s wireless consultant, Richard Comi, who said the request is reasonable and has been granted for other wireless providers throughout the country. The resolution was approved in a 3/0 roll call vote. 

Supervisor Kirchner asked for approval of Resolution #91 of 2008 regarding the purchase of Turn-out Gear from B-Lann Equipment Company in the amount of $1,156 with the provision that the Rescue Squad provide documentation to the Town Board that this equipment is New York State Health Department mandated. Three bids were obtained, and B-Lann was the lowest responsible bidder for the mandated equipment. The resolution was approved by a 3/0 roll call vote.

Supervisor Kirchner asked for approval of Resolution #92 of 2008 authorizing a variance of Section 161-14 of the Grafton Town Code for the Grafton Trail Riders. A copy of this resolution may be obtained at the Town Hall. The resolution passed 3/0 in roll call vote.

Supervisor Kirchner asked for approval of Resolution #93 of 2008 for several budget revisions/transfer of funds. This list can be seen at the Town Hall. The budget revisions were approved by a 3/0 role call vote.

Supervisor Kirchner asked for approval of Resolution #94 of 2008 authorizing the transfer of $3,027.27 from the Trust and Agency account TA30 (escrow) to the General Fund account A2801 (Inter-fund Revenue) to cover Planning Board consultant expenses in connection with the following applications: Verizon Wireless – $700 and RP Wind NY (Reunion Power) – $2,347.27. The resolution was approved unanimously.

Councilwoman Marie Claus made a motion to approve all bills as audited. It was seconded by Councilwoman Barb Messenger and approved unanimously. 

Pig Farm

At the beginning of the public comment period Supervisor Kirchner reminded everyone that there is a five minute time limit per person. 

 A resident of Babcock Lake, Virginia Scrugski, appeared again at this month’s meeting to ask if a Board member had been appointed to work along with the Babcock Lake residents to determine what action should be taken to ward off the proposed “Pig Farm” proposed by former Town Supervisor Tyler Sawyer. Last month’s meeting was particularly stormy with many residents from Babcock Lake expressing their dismay at Sawyer’s seemingly inconsiderate move to start a pig farm on property located within feet of the lake. 

Supervisor Kirchner said no one has been appointed yet and that the Board will have to take the issue up with the Town Attorney in order to see if the Board has any jurisdiction whatsoever over the matter. The issue was tabled until contact and determination can be made with Sal Ferlazzo, Town Attorney.

Supervisor Kirchner reminded all Town Board members of a Budget Workshop to be held on September 17, at 6 pm at the Town Hall.

Supervisor Kirchner made a motion to adjourn the meeting in memory of Edward Fredricks, Jr., Sadie Gardy and All of Those Who Lost Their Lives on September 11, 2001. The meeting adjourned at 7:35 pm.

Stephentown Town Board Action – September 2008

By

by David Flint

Two public hearings were held preceding the regular Stephentown Town Board meeting on Monday. The first concerned an addendum to the Dog Control Law and the second had to do with whether property tax exemptions should be extended to Cold War veterans. The Board took no action on either matter.

Dog Control

The intent of amending the Dog Control law was to specify that kennel charges incurred for stray dogs would be the responsibility of the dog owner and not the Town. The law already indicates that the owner must pay impounding fees, but the Town has been caught in the recent past holding the bag for keeping stray or seized dogs in a kennel. However, at the public hearing Town Justice Cyril Grant pointed out that the wording of the addendum was confusing and might in fact make the Town more responsible than before for paying the kennel charges. 

On top of that, Town Supervisor Tom Sherman said he had been advised that impoundment fees and kenneling charges should not be addressed in the same law. So this matter was sent back to the drawing board.

Cold War Veterans Tax Exemptions

Town Assessor Tom MacVeigh was not present at the public hearing so the matter of Cold War Veterans exemptions was also tabled. He had earlier reported that the State had changed the rules on veterans exemptions so that Towns can now include Cold War veterans, those who served in between designated war times. If approved, the local law would allow residents who served between September 2, 1945, and December 26, 1991, or their surviving spouses, to receive a 10 or 15 percent reduction in the assessed value of their home, as the Town specifies. 

Win Means noted that over ten percent of taxable properties in Town are owned by veterans. While veterans deserve some recognition he said so, too, do fire and police personnel, and he questioned whether it is prudent to extend these exemption benefits with the result that other taxpayers would have to pay more. Councilman Larry Eckhardt agreed that if someone gets an exemption, others must pay more. Joel Hunt, however said these veterans who tend to be older and on fixed incomes need a break, and Bob Burns pointed out the unfairness of granting benefits to veterans who happened to serve during designated war times, whether they were in combat or not, whereas others, such as those who served between Vietnam and the Gulf War are entitled to nothing. 

Sherman wanted more explanation of the pros and cons and data on what exactly would be the impact on the tax base. Without MacVeigh present to answer questions the Board took no action in the regular meeting that followed. 

Help To Get Through 

The Winter

At the regular meeting Supervisor Sherman reported that the Stephentown Seniors are holding an important meeting this Thursday, September 18, at 1 pm at the Fire Hall. Representatives from the Department of Aging and other agencies will be there to speak about HEAP and other benefits that seniors and others might qualify for to help get through the winter. All are invited, not just seniors. Refreshments will be served, so those who know they will attend are asked to call Cathy Lawless at 733-6508. They are also asked to bring something for the Food Pantry. 

Hammersmith Awarded Bid For Transfer Station Pads

Bids were received from contractors to construct two 10’ by 24’ concrete pads at the Transfer Station for use under roll-off dumpsters. They were asked to bid on two categories of construction, one that Sherman described as “Taj Mahal” construction and another that met the basic requirements. The Board rejected the three “Taj Mahal” bids, which ranged from $13,665 to $7,400 as too expensive and focused on the basic requirement bids. They selected the lowest bid which was in the amount of $2,620, submitted by William Hammersmith. Rejected bids came from Dave Goodermote at $7,298 and Avery Concrete at $6,800. 

The 2009 Budget

Sherman said all budget requests are due by September 20. The Board will hold two budget workshops, on Monday, September 22, and Monday, September 29, both at 7 pm. A public hearing on the tentative 2009 budget will be held on Monday, October 20, at 7 pm preceding the next regular Board meeting. The goal, he said, is a flat budget, no raising of taxes, and the Board will resist offsetting expenditures with an infusion from the fund balance. He asked department heads to look closely at their needs and be prepared to explain their requests.

Sherman noted that a new State law requires the Town to attach to the budget an exemption report that will show how much of the total assessed value is exempt from taxation. According to the Association of Towns, the reason for this new requirement is because, “while exemptions serve a valid public purpose, they also erode the tax base and shift the tax burden to other property owners within the taxing district. The extent of this impact is largely hidden from view because no systematic reporting is done at the local level.” 

American Indian 

Heritage Month

At the request of the Fort Crailo Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Board passed a proclamation designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month.

Cash Flow Crunch

Sherman reported that the Town is currently in a cash flow crunch. Although there is a cash reserve of $302,000, there is not enough money in the General Fund right now to pay all the current vouchers. He expected, however, to receive sales tax revenue in the next two weeks, and CHIPS money should also be arriving before the end of the month.

Provost Road Problems 

Cindy Rayman, owner of A Dog’s Best Friend boarding and training facility on Provost Road, complained that she has been asking for two years to have the missing Provost Road sign replaced at the intersection with Route 43. Also, she said that people are going the wrong way on that road again because the signs at the other end of the road have been moved out of their original position. People, she said, think the “Do Not Enter” sign is meant for Neil Gardner’s storage area and they don’t see the “One Way” sign the way it is now positioned. Rayman was pleased that the road was graded recently, but she said no calcium was put down after the grading and in the resulting “dust storm” her clients at the training facility could not see their dogs. Councilman Eckhardt said he would discuss these issues with Highway Superintendent Neil Gardner. 

Extra Helpings Revived

Paula Dibble reported that the Extra Helpings program is back up and running at the Federated Church. Flyers and posters have been put out. She noted that there is no set income level for participation. “It works, and it’s not just for those having hard times,” she said. “It’s for all of us.” 

BAR Position

The Board passed a resolution authorizing the Town Clerk to advertise that a 5-year term on the Board of Assessment Review is expiring at the end of the month. Resumes and letters of interest should be submitted to the Town Clerk by Friday, October 17.

Standard Work Day

To comply with the New York State Retirement & Social Security Law, the Board passed another resolution establishing for retirement reporting purposes a Standard Work Day of six hours for elected officials and part time employees, effective January 1, 2008.

Deposits & Spending

The Town Clerk reported she had turned over to the Supervisor the sum of $718.68 for the month of August. The distribution from the Office of the State Comptroller for the month of July was $2,555. The Transfer Station deposited a total of $8,118 for the month of August. 

The Board audited and approved claims in the amount of $40,215.61 from the General Account and $83,028.20 from the Highway Account. Councilman PJ Roder questioned whether a bill from M.K.Electric in the amount of $5,389.25 for electrical work at the Town Garage was in keeping with the Town’s Procurement Policy since it exceeded $5,000. The Procurement Policy specifies that “All estimated purchases less than $10,000 but greater than $5,000 require a written request for proposal and written/fax quotes from three vendors.” In the absence of Councilman Mark Prescott who chairs the Machinery & Garage Committee, it was not clear what the original estimate was, so the Board approved the expenditure. 

The Board set their next regular meeting for Monday, October 20, at 7:30 pm, to be preceded by a public hearing at 7 pm on the tentative 2009 budget.

Plans For A New Cell Tower In Grafton

By

 

by Judith Radford

On September 15 the Grafton Planning Board held its regular monthly meeting with all members present. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call and approval of minutes of last month’s meetings, Dave Brennan appeared as lawyer for Verizon Communications regarding their proposal to build a new cell tower. He told everyone that the proposed 110 foot tower would fill a gap that exists in cell phone coverage between certain locations in Grafton and Petersburgh. He said it would be a lattice tower designed to Grafton Town Codes that would be capable of taking on two additional carriers. The base would be a 12’ x 30’ shelter, and there would be an 8 foot chain link fence. The tower would sit 105 feet back from 1928 NY State Route 2. He went on to discuss the site and added that a visual impact analysis would be done prior to any decisions by the Board. 

Richard Comi, Communications Consultant for the Town told the Board that the law requires a balloon test and for it to be successful, it should be done on a Saturday when most of the nearby residents are home. He said the balloon should be representative of the size and height of the tower. He asked if Verizon had done any analysis of the Grafton Elementary School as a site for the tower and Brennan responded they had not but would be glad to do so. Comi went on to add that the actual installation of any cell tower still had a long way to go in the approval process and that he would submit a written report on his analysis shortly. The balloon test was scheduled for Saturday, November 1, with Saturday, November 8, as the rain date. Brennan said the test takes approximately four hours and would start at 8 am and continue to 12 noon. The issue was tabled until results from the balloon test and Comi’s report could be examined by members of the Board. A public hearing on the matter will not be scheduled until all the information can be made available.

Wind Testing

Richard Comi made suggestions regarding the wind testing monitor proposed by Reunion Power. He told the Board that the Grafton Town Board had just passed a Resolution waiving the usual fee required in communications matters. He reminded everyone that this is a MET which is approximately 8 inches on a 160 foot tower and not a visual intrusion. He recommended that the Board make a motion to declare a negative environmental impact of the installation of the monitor and the Board did so. He also recommended that the requirement for a $2,000 bond be put in place by Reunion to cover the cost of removal of the tower and MET after 2 years. He said the company should provide liability insurance and asked that the application contain the contingency that Reunion would remove the tower after 2 years and return the site to its original rustic nature. He said Reunion would also be required to pay the remainder of the application fee and pay for any cost of reviewing the process by consultants. Any extension of the two year time period would have to go before the Board. 

Member Goyer asked about the cost to remove the tower, and Comi responded that the $2,000 bond amount would sufficiently cover the cost to remove it if Reunion failed to do so. Member Newell asked if a road to the site was required, and member Withcuskey said the site was located on an old logging road and installation would be minimally invasive. Comi said no road was needed nor was any visit required as the equipment would respond to Reunion without any visits. 

J. Craig Alexander and Betsy Colvin appeared to inform the Board that they had received approval from the Army Corps of Engineer on their proposed 2-lot minor subdivision on Cranberry Pond Road, but they have not yet heard from DEC. No action could be taken on the matter until all reports have been received.

Regarding Stonybrook Land LLC, no one appeared at this meeting; however, Highway Superintendent Herb Hasbrouck said that Rensselaer County was doing the perk tests on the property this coming Thursday. He reported that the developer would like to put a road in sooner rather than later. According to Town Attorney Sal Ferlazzo, also in attendance, Town Code does not prohibit the developer from putting in a road, but it would be at the developer’s risk since the Board has not and will not grant approval for the project at this time. Much discussion followed about the difference between private and Town roads. Hasbrouck said any private roads that later are requested to become Town roads must be brought up to the standards required in the recently written Town road specifications. There were no further discussions and no public comment. The meeting adjourned at 7:52 pm.

A Summary Of The August Meeting

When the Grafton Planning Board met in August of 2008, it had three issues considered under old business and two considered as new business. Members of the Planning Board included Tom Withcuskey, Scott Newell, Arthur Surprise, Jim Goyer and Owen Grandjean, Chairman. Attending the meeting as guests were Jim Mirenda of Reunion Power, David Lipinski of Stonybrook Land LLC, Grafton Communications Consultant Richard Comi, Town Attorney Sal Ferlazzo, Grafton Highway Superintendent Herb Hasbrouck and residents J. Craig Alexander and Betsy Colvin. 

In the latter part 2007, Reunion Power had approached the Planning Board about installing a wind monitor to see if Grafton would be a suitable location for a wind turbine. At this meeting Grafton was established as lead agency in the matter, and a date of September 15 at 6:30 pm set as the time and date for the public hearing.

In early 2008, Stonybrook Land LLC applied for a 27-lot major subdivision which they planned to call “The Lake at Sylvan Way.” David Lipinski, owner, informed the Board of improvements and progress at the site. He also presented a revised map of the re-location of Sylvan Way and added acreage of lake frontage. The Board members agreed to a special on site visit which was held on Wednesday, September 3, 2008.

Chairman Grandjean informed the members of the Board that Verizon Communications was going forward with their plan to add a cell tower but the Board would take no action until a report could be received from Richard Comi.

Also at this meeting, J. Craig Alexander and Betsy Colvin appeared with a request for a proposed 2-lot minor subdivision at Cranberry Pond Road. The Board decided it could not establish lead agency in the matter until the applicants received confirmation from the Department of Environmental Conservation for wetland construction. The application was approved providing they received a supplemental letter from DEC on the matter. The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 pm.