DEC Adirondack Outdoor Recreation Bulletin January 14, 2021

 DEC Adirondack Outdoor Recreation Bulletin January 14, 2021

Perkins Clearing/Speculator Tree Farm Easement:

Snowmobile trails on both tracts are now open.

Old Route 8 between Cave Hill Road and Robbs Creek Road in Perkins Clearing is currently a shared logging road and snowmobile trail. Snowmobilers must drive slowly, stay on the groomed trail, and use caution when driving near logging trucks and equipment.

Moose River Plains Complex: The entrance gates to the Moose River Plains on Limekiln Lake-Cedar River Road are now open to snowmobile traffic only. Conditions remain poor due to minimal snow accumulation. The roads remain closed to public motor vehicles for the winter season.

Snow Accumulation: The following provides current snowpack depths in inches as of 01/05/21 at a selection of Adirondack locations. Snow accumulation data is collected every other week. Additional data and interactive maps are available on the National Weather Service website.

Northwoods Club Road, Minerva, Essex County: 7.7 inches

Goodnow Flow Road, Newcomb, Essex County: 7.6 inches

Tahawus/Upper Works, Newcomb, Essex County: 7.8 inches

Blue Ridge Road, Newcomb, Essex County: 7.5 inches

Elk Lake Road, North Hudson, Essex County: 8.7 inches

Lake Colden, Essex County: 11.4 inches

Cedar River Road, Indian Lake, Hamilton County: 7.8 inches

Sagamore Road, Long Lake, Hamilton County: 7 inches

Haskell Road, Ohio, Herkimer County: 9.6 inches

North Lake Road, Ohio, Herkimer County: 9.7 inches

Ice Safety: A minimum of three to four inches of solid ice is the general rule for safety. Ice thickness, however, is not uniform on any body of water. Learn more about ice safety.

Snowmobiling: Some seasonal access roads will transition to snowmobile use once sufficient snowpack accumulates. Check local club, county, and state webpages and resources, including the NYSSA Snowmobile Webmap, for up-to-date snowmobile trail information.

FEMA pays Lake Pleasant 87,000

 LPTB Dec 21 2020

FEMA pays Lake Pleasant 87,000

By PETE KLEIN

LAKE PLEASANT—When the Lake Pleasant Town Board met on December 21, Highway Superintendent Randy Lavarnway reported the Town has received the first check for $87,000 from FEMA for work done because of last year’s Halloween Storm and are still waiting for two/three vouchers for projects done this summer.

Supervisor Betsy Bain wanted everyone to know how persistent Randy has been in getting the money owed to the Town. Nancy Seifts asked Lavarnway if there has been any CHIPS money at this point, he said they have not received any.

Lavarnway went on to say there were no major breakdowns during the recent big snowstorm.

He said cemeteries are closed. Trees have been cut down on the Pathway. This will help the cross-country ski trails. Sump-pumps in the Primary Care are all up and running. The cameras at the Health Care and the Library are all working. No word on funds for the Snowmobile Trail grooming; the NYS Snowmobile Association says do not expect vouchers until mid-January and the funds may be reduced. If we get any money by February, we will be halfway through the snowmobile season with no money for the Town or the clubs that groom the trails.

OLD BUSINESS

Supervisor Bain reported that the new flooring in the Primary Care Center has been completed and a great job done.

Neil McGovern who is serving on the Septic committee with the Village, reported that it seems the Village is moving ahead to get ready to adopt a Village Local Law, he feels that the Committee was going to use the County’s Local Law from the 70’s and work from that. He feels it does not make sense to pass a Village law on this, it should be a Town Law which would include the Village. Neil will get a fresh copy of the County Local Law as the one he was given is missing some parts. He thinks the Board should go slowly on this topic and get some feedback from the Town’s people. Supervisor Bain said the Septic Committee is made up of more Village people who do not have septic systems. Neil said he is representing the Town’s people. Bob Benkovich is the only one on the Committee who does not live in the Village. The question is also who is going to do the enforcing of this law? Code/Zoning Officer Bob Benkovich has a full plate already.

NEW BUSINESS

After much discussion on a former bill that the Town received from Parslow plumbing to do emergency repair to an R/O system months ago, the Board finally agreed to pay the $150 bill. Cristine Meixner is not in agreement to pay the bill as she feels it is not part of the responsibility of the Town. She offered to pay it herself. Supervisor Bain feels because she made the call the Town should pay just this time.

RESOLUTION #118 THE BOARD WILL PAY THE $150 BILL TO PARSLOW PLUMBING FOR AN EMERGENCY CALL ON A R/O SYSTEM THAT WAS DONE OVER COLUMBUS DAY WEEKEND.

RESOLVED, the Board agreed to pay the bill as Supervisor Bain felt she made the call to Parslow Plumbing due to the R/O homeowner not having any water on Columbus Weekend.

OFFERED BY, Nancy Seifts, 2nd by Don Braunius

ADOPTED by the following vote: Ayes: Supervisor Bain, Councilperson: Cristine Meixner, Nancy Seifts, Don Braunius, Neil McGovern. Nays: None

RESOLUTION #119 THE BOARD AGREED ON THE 2020 AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE TOWN AND THE LAKE PLEASANT SENIOR CITIZEN GROUP INC.

(Cristine Meixner feels it should read the Senior Citizen Meal Site Contract for 2021 to distinguish it from the Senior Citizen Meal Site Contract, the Board agreed)

OFFERED BY, Cristine Meixner 2nd by Neil McGovern

ADOPTED by the following vote: Ayes: Supervisor Bain, Councilperson: Nancy Seifts, Cristine Meixner, Don Braunius, Neil McGovern. Nays: None.

RESOLUTION #120 THE BOARD ADOPTED THE AGREEMENT FOR SERVICES WITH THE ADIRONDACK SPECULATOR REGION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR 2021

OFFERED BY Neil McGovern 2nd by Cristine Meixner

ADOPTED by the following vote: Ayes: Supervisor Bain, Councilperson: Nancy Seifts, Cristine Meixner, Neil McGovern, Don Braunius.

RESOLUTION #121 THE BOARD AGREED ON AUGUST 5, 2013 TO CREATE A CAPITAL PROJECT H16 FOR THE LIBRARY EXPANSION AND THE TOWN BOARD AGREES TO THE CLOSING OF THE CAPITAL PROJECT FUND H16 AND TRANSFER FUNDS.

OFFERED BY, Nancy Seifts, 2nd by Neil McGovern

ADOPTED by the following vote: Ayes: Supervisor Bain, Councilperson: Nancy Seifts, Cristine Meixner, Don Braunius, Neil McGovern. Nays: None

RESOLUTION #122 THE BOARD HAS AUTHORIZED THE INCREASE FUNDING FOR CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER.

OFFERED BY, Nancy Seifts, 2nd by Neil McGovern (See attached)

ADOPTED by the following vote: Ayes: Supervisor Bain, Councilperson: Nancy Seifts, Cristine Meixner, Don Braunius, Neil McGovern. Nays: None.

Zoning/Code Enforcement Officer Bob Benkovich reported that the new system has been installed and he has been doing some training on it already. It can do permits, meetings zoning board, planning board and code enforcement work all by property number or address and or name. Once the mobile app is installed, he will be able to take photos on site then upload them at the office.

RESOLUTION # 123 THE BOARD AGREED WITH THE NEW RETENTION AND DISPOSITION SCHEDULE FOR NEW YORK LOCAL GOVERNMENT RECORDS.

OFFERED BY, Cristine Meixner, 2nd by Nancy Seifts

RESOLVED, the Town of Lake Pleasant has agreed with the Retention and Disposition Schedule for New York Local Government Records issued pursuant to Article 57-A of the Arts and Cultural Affairs Law and containing legal minimum retention periods for local government records, is hereby adopted for use by all officers in legally disposing of valueless records listen therein.

FURTHER RESOLVED, that in accordance with Article 57-A:

(a) - Only those records will be disposed of that are described in Retention and Disposition Schedule for New York Local Government Records (LGS-1), after they have met the minimum retention periods described therein.

(b) - Only those records will be disposed of that do not have sufficient administrative, fiscal, legal, or historical value to merit retention beyond established legal minimum periods.

ADOPTED by the following vote: Ayes: Supervisor Bain, Councilperson: Neil McGovern, Cristine Meixner, Nancy Seifts, Don Braunius Nays: None

COUNTY BOOKKEEPING SERVICES

WHEREAS A Budget Adjustment transfer should be made in the amount of $7,875.00 from the Account Clerk Line Number A.122.101 to the newly created budget line number A.1220.402.

BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board hereby creates and funds the new budget line to pay for the new County Bookkeeping Services.

ADOPTED by the following vote. Ayes: Supervisor Bain, Councilperson: Nancy Seifts, Neil McGovern, Don Braunius. Nays-None

ROUNDTABLE

Question on when the kids ski lessons start? Ski lessons stated on Dec. 18th and each child will receive 8 lessons. Don Braunius said he was happy about the trees being removed from the Pathway. Don feels maybe something can be done about the picnic areas, suggestion moving the ones in the back closer to the front of the Pathway. Supervisor Bain suggested as we get closer to Spring maybe meet with Dave McComb who is the Coordinator for the Pathway and get some volunteers to help with improvements.

Discussion on moving the Town Board meetings from 7 p.m. to 5: p.m. After much discussion, the Board agreed to start the meetings at 5:30 p.m. starting with the meeting on January 4.

The Board will review this at the last meeting in March.

Supervisor Bain thanked the Lake Pleasant Volunteer Fire Dept. for opening for COVID testing.

Supervisor Bain will be submitting a voucher to the Office of the Aging once she gets the final bill from Brown Coach Bus Company to get reimbursement for the year.

This article is based upon the minutes of Deborah O’Rourke, Town Clerk.

Speculator updates local laws

 Speculator VB Dec 14 2020

Speculator updates local laws

By PETE KLEIN

SPECULATOR—When the Speculator Village Board of Trustees met on December 14, Trustee Mark Donecker made a motion to open the public hearing to Update the Billing Frequency of Local Laws #2 and #3 of 2019.

Trustee Rebecca Smith seconded, and the motion passed with the following vote: aye – Mayor Jeannette Barrett, Trusties Mark Crary, Mark Rebecca Donecker, Rebecca Smith.

Local Laws #2 and #3 of 2019 have been modified to reflect the quarterly billing cycle the Village has been using for the past several years. In addition, the sewer uses and operations, Law #2 of 2019, has been reformatted by Mrs. O’Brien for ease of use. Mayor Barrett thanked Mrs. O’Brien for the time she has put into reformatting this law. The updated laws will be filed with the state as Local Law #1 and #2 of 2020.

There were no comments from the public.

Trustee Crary made a motion to close the public hearing to Update the Billing Frequency of Local Laws #2 and #3 of 2019. Trustee Donecker seconded, and the motion passed with the following vote: aye – Barrett, Crary, Donecker, Smith; none, Rumsey – absent.

Trustee Donecker made a motion to approve the final amendment to Local Law #2 of 2019 regulating sewer use and operations and Local Law #3 of 2019 regulating the water district and metering of the same of the Village of Speculator.  Trustee Smith seconded, and the motion passed with the following vote: aye – Barrett, Crary, Donecker, Smith; none, Rumsey – absent.

WATER & WASTEWATER REPORT

Edward Scharpou, WWTP Superintendent, submitted a written Department of Water & Wastewater report Additional commentary is as follows:

The monthly report has been sent out. Lead and Copper samples have been certified. The water main break on Marion Avenue has been repaired. The new chlorine system has been installed and is working exceptionally well. The new system is an upgrade, more reliable and can function on a set schedule. Mr. Scharpou reported he and Mr. Page are continuing to monitor one of Camp of the Woods meters which has had several high readings as no issues have been identified to account for the current readings. The new valve for pump #1 has been received and is scheduled to be installed this Thursday. Mr. Scharpou and Mr. Page will begin taking on-line courses tomorrow to renew their water licenses.

SPDES and DMR have been completed for November. The wastewater department has received the new hauler’s permit. The land application bio solids have been applied. Meeting set with Lamont engineer on Wednesday for a review of the plans. Mr. Jim Geiger from EFC will be here this week to review contract #1 completed work. Mr. Geiger would like to see firsthand what has been accomplished so far.

CLERK’S REPORT

Clerk Crystal O’Brien gave a verbal Clerk-Treasurer Report as follows:

Mrs. O’Brien spoke with Mr. Ted Jones from Williamson Law Books regarding the Office of the State Comptroller (OSC) required changes needed for payroll. He informed her these changes would be account code changes and will be easy to complete when it is time to report.

All full-time employees attended the Employee Benefit Meeting on December 3rd. This meeting went well, and everything is set for the start of the new year.

Financial Report #6 is ready, and board members are welcome to stop by the Village Hall anytime in the next two weeks to review and sign the report.

O’Brien introduced Resolution #22, Resolution for 2020-2021 Budget Adjustments for Trustee Salaries given back to Village. These salaries will be applied to the extra employees needed for COVID requirements, for the General Elections and to help offset the cost of the Williamson Law Books Building Code Software.

Trustee Donecker made a motion to accept Resolution #22 for Budget Adjustments for Trustee Salaries given back to Village. Trustee Smith seconded, and the motion passed with the following vote: aye – Barrett, Crary, Donecker, Smith; none, Rumsey – absent.

O’Brien introduced Resolution #23, Resolution for 2020-2021 Budget Adjustments to Correct Unpaid Lamont Invoices from Disbursement #2. The Village received this Disbursement #2 on May 14, 2020 but the breakdown, stating the invoices to be paid, was not received which left several invoices unpaid and a portion of the disbursement was rolled into fund balance at the end of the 2019-20. The resolution decreases G915 – Unappropriated fund balance by $14,939.90 and increases G599 – Appropriated Fund Balance by $14,939.90; HA3990 – Sewer Project State Aid by $9,236.65; and G8130.4 – Sewage Treatment & Disposal by $5,703.25.

Trustee Crary made a motion to accept Resolution #23, Resolution for 2020-2021 Budget Adjustments to Correct Unpaid Lamont Invoices from Disbursement #2. Trustee Donecker seconded, and the motion passed with the following vote: aye – Barrett, Crary, Donecker, Smith.

OLD BUSINESS:

COVID-19 update: Hamilton County has 4 new positive cases. These cases were reported today, which brings the county’s total to 68. Public Health issued a press release in partial response to the request for information regarding where the positive cases are located within the county. Public Health started posting regular updates to the Hamilton County Public Health Facebook page, including positive cases, recovered cases and upcoming COVID testing clinics. Mayor Barrett reminded everyone to stay home if you are sick and if you are symptomatic please get a test and self-quarantine.

FEMA/Emergency Halloween Storm Update: There is progress being made regarding the water crossing.

FEMA/COVID Pandemic: A report is being generated on all COVID expenses for the Village of Speculator. This will be ready in the next few days.

LED Street Lights: After six weeks, the Village is still waiting to receive an invoice from National Grid.

Verizon Small Cell Tower: No updates.

NEW BUSINESS:

Speculator Volunteer Fire Department received an application for Jr. Fire Fighter from Lillian Hughes. The fire department is pleased with her application and she has already attended two meetings.

Trustee Smith made a motion to approve Lillian Hughes as a Jr. Member for the Speculator Volunteer Fire Department. Trustee Crary seconded, and the motion passed with the following vote: aye – Barrett, Crary, Donecker, Smith; none, Rumsey – absent.

Trustee Donecker presented Resolution #24 for the Adoption of Hamilton County Local Law No. 1 of 1976. With much sediment and algae coming into the lake, as well as Pond Weed, we want to work to ensure septic systems near the water meet specific standards to protect our lake. This Resolution to adopt this County Local Law as Village Law, is to ensure the Village is doing all they can to help safeguard all the waters of the Village of Speculator from pollution and will provide penalties for violation. An addendum will be presented in the coming months with specific requirements for septic systems near the water. There are several grants being researched for those who will have the expense of replacing their system.

Trustee Crary made a motion to accept Resolution #24 for Adoption of Hamilton County Local Law No. 1 of 1976. Trustee Smith seconded, and the motion passed with the following vote: aye – Barrett, Crary, Donecker, Smith; none, Rumsey – absent.

The OSC announced that the allowable levy growth factor (tax cap) for those local governments with fiscal years beginning on June 1, 2021, will be 1.31%. Pursuant to the tax cap law, the allowable levy growth factor is 2% or the CPI, whichever is less. The CPI is currently 1.31% Preparing the budget will begin in early next year.

Rural Digital Opportunity Awards in NYS. Last week Representative Stefanik announced that the FCC is awarding over $99 million for the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund. For the New York State Broadband Projects, one of the areas noted that will be most impacted by the announcement is Speculator with over 300 locations identified to the east and west of the Village of Speculator. Frontier won the bid for our region.

BOARD ROUND TABLE

Trustee Rumsey has been working with Mayor Barrett on developing a COVID plan for the Village of Speculator to be filed with the state. Mayor Barrett will be meeting with Village Supervisors to answer all the “what if” questions and to confirm what supplies we have on hand. This will be discussed at the Village board meeting on December 28 and approved and submitted to the state.

Roger Blanchard reported the garbage truck broke this morning and will be giving an update to the office.

Zoning officer, Rick Rumsey and Planning Board Supervisor, Matt O’Brien, will be attending the December 28 meeting to update the board regarding issues and requests that have been brought to the planning board recently. Building inspector, Bob Benkovich, will be giving a report in January.

This article is based upon the minutes of Tracy J. Marshall, Village Deputy Clerk – Treasurer

Farber retains chairmanship

 Supervisors Jan 7 2021

Farber retains chairmanship

By PETE KLEIN

LAKE PLEASANT—The Hamilton County Board of Supervisors held its Organization Meeting on January 7, 2021 and began with its First Order of Business – appointing a chairman of the board. As in the past, William Farber of Morehouse was appointed Chairman.

Rick Wilt, Arietta Supervisor, was appointed Deputy Chairman.

Farber has continuously held the position of chairman since 1998, and before that from 1994 and 1995. Farber has been supervisor of the Town of Morehouse for 32 years.

Farber was also appointed Budget Officer.

The board then went on to pass the following resolutions.

INVESTMENT POLICY FOR THE COUNTY OF HAMILTON

WHEREAS, the Investment Policy for the County of Hamilton is to be renewed on an annual basis, and

WHEREAS the County Treasurer recommends the banks where monies are deposited, and the maximum amount as follows:

NBT: $15,000,000.00 (Fifteen Million) Community Bank: $10,000,000.00 (Ten Million) Key Bank: $5,000,000.00 (Five Million)

JP Morgan: $10,000,000.00 (Ten Million) Bank of America: $5,000,000.00 (Five Million)

Chemung Canal Trust Company: $3,000,000.00 (Three Million)

T.D. Bank: $12,000,000.00 (Twelve Million) be it

RESOLVED, that the above listed amendments be adopted, and the County Treasurer be so advised.

APPOINTMENTS TO THE FISH AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT BOARD 

WHEREAS the terms for the Landowner Representative & Alternate expired December 31, 2020, be it

RESOLVED, that the following appointments be affirmed and made to NYS Fish & Wildlife Management Board Region 5:

January 1, 2021 – December 31, 2022 Kim Mitchell, Landowner Rep.

January 1, 2021 – December 31, 2022 Richard Clawson, Landowner Rep. Alternate

January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2021 John Stortecky, Supervisor Rep.

January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2021 Clay Arsenault, Supervisor Rep. Alternate

January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2021 Lawrence P. Foy, Sportsman Rep.

January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2021 Clay Earley, Sportsman Rep. Alternate Seconded by

2021 COUNTY INSURANCE PACKAGE

WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors awarded the County Insurance Package to Rose & Kiernan, Inc. with NYMIR Insurance as the carrier effective January 1, 2021, and

WHEREAS, the current premiums and the Cyber Security Policy are due and payable currently, be it

RESOLVED, that payment due in the amount of $162,882.36 for the period January 1, 2021 – January 1, 2021 be hereby approved, and be it further

RESOLVED, that the County Treasurer is authorized to make payment at this time by issuing a check to Rose & Kiernan, Inc., in the amount of $162,882.36 for Invoice No. 166796 and 166536 from the several accounts for insurance.

2021 WORKERS COMPENSATION DATED

WHEREAS the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors awarded the County Workers Compensation package to PERMA for 2021, and

WHEREAS, the County has determined that taking advantage of the three-year contract rate discount, with a guaranteed cost (excluding NYS Assessments) for year two and a loss ratio rate based on year two for year three, are all benefits to Hamilton County, and

WHEREAS the County is in receipt of the annual premium for 2021 from PERMA for Workers Compensation in the amount of $126,682.00, and

WHEREAS the County is only eligible for this premium if said premium is paid in full by January 15, 2021, be it

RESOLVED, that the premium be paid in the amount of $126,682.00 from the 2021 Budget charging the several accounts so noted for Employee Benefits Workers Compensation and the County Treasurer be so authorized.

TRAVEL ALLOWANCE – 2021

RESOLVED, that Hamilton County will, effective January 1, 2021, compensate auto mileage incurred by employees on behalf of the County at the rate of $.56 per mile and the County Treasurer be so authorized.

AGREEMENT WITH ADIRONDACK PARK LOCAL GOVERNMENT REVIEW BOARD – 2021

BE IT RESOLVED that the Chairman is hereby authorized to execute an Agreement with the Adirondack Park Local Government Review Board for the 2021 appropriation in the amount of Three Thousand Dollars ($3,000.00), charging Account No. A6326.403, and is hereby approved for payment and the County Treasurer be so advised.

AGREEMENT WITH CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION 

WHEREAS, the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors has appropriated the sum of Forty- seven Thousand Five Hundred Eighty-nine Dollars ($47,589.00) for the support and maintenance of the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Hamilton County,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that pursuant to Subdivision 8 of Section 224 of the County Law, the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors does hereby authorize the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors to enter into a memorandum agreement with the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Hamilton County for the fiscal year of January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2021 in the amount of Forty-seven Thousand Five Hundred Eighty-nine Dollars ($47,589.00), and be it further

RESOLVED, the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors does hereby authorize payment of Forty-seven Thousand Five Hundred Eight-nine Dollars ($47,589.00) to the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Hamilton County in one payment, on or about February 4, 2021 and said amount shall be paid from Account No. A8750.401, and the Hamilton County Treasurer be so advised.

CONTRACT WITH THE HAMILTON COUNTY FEDERATION OF SPORTSMEN’S CLUBS, INC.

WHEREAS this Board desires to enter a contract with the Hamilton County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, Inc., for the year 2021, and

WHEREAS, the “Federation” has an established program, for promotion and education with respect to wildlife and environmental conservation, and

WHEREAS the “Federation” through the relationships they have established with the local Fish & Game or Rod & Gun Clubs has an ability to provide a needed service to the County, and

WHEREAS, such service is anticipated to be promotion and education surrounding wildlife, fishing, and environmental conservation, and

WHEREAS there are opportunities to provide these services through existing camps, kids fishing derbies, etc.,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the County Attorney be authorized to prepare a contract to pay One Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($1,500.00) to the Hamilton County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, Inc., giving them authority to carry on a program including conservation education, and be it further

RESOLVED, that the Chairman be authorized to execute such contract and that One Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($1,500.00) be paid on or about March 4, 2021 from Fish and Game Account No. A8720.402 Federal Fish and Game, and that the Fish & Game Account No. A8720.402 be charged for all other expenses authorized herein, and be it also

RESOLVED, that Hamilton County would provide funding for up to 8 local Hamilton County Fish & Game or Rod & Gun Clubs at up to $500.00 per club for promotional or educational programs as above defined approved by the Committee of the Hamilton County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, Inc. and be covered by this contract, and be it further

RESOLVED, that upon completion of the Federation’s Coyote Contest they will be reimbursed up to $500.00 as part of said contract, and be it further

RESOLVED, that all expenses under Fish and Game Account No. A8720.402 Fish & Game will be reimbursements to the Federation for expenses already paid under the $500.00 per club formula and $500.00 for said Coyote Contest, and the County Treasurer be so authorized.

APPOINTMENTS TO THE LAKE CHAMPLAIN-LAKE GEORGE REGIONAL PLANNING BOARD

WHEREAS the by-laws of the Lake Champlain – Lake George Regional Planning Board state that each member-county shall appoint six directors to the Board with the Chairperson of the Board of Supervisors, the Chief Financial Officer and the Highway Superintendent of each member county being Ex-Officio members and three additional directors shall be appointed by the Chairperson of the Board of Supervisors of each member county, and

WHEREAS the tenure of Ex-Officio Officers shall be consistent with their terms of office and the additional three (3) members shall be appointed to terms of three (3) years and staggered so that one director term shall expire each year, be it

RESOLVED, that the following appointments be made to the Lake Champlain-Lake George Regional Planning Board:

Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, County Treasurer, Highway Superintendent

Christy Wilt – Term January 1, 2019 – December 31, 2021

Clay Arsenault – Term of January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2022

Steve Tomlinson – Term of January 1, 2021 – December 31, 2023.

HAMILTON COUNTY INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 856 of the General Municipal Law, the Hamilton County Industrial Development Agency shall consist of at least three (3) and not more than seven (7) members, all of whom shall be appointed by the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors, with all members serving at the pleasure of the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors, and

WHEREAS, the County of Hamilton and the Industrial Development Agency has received Robert Morrison’s resignation from the Industrial Development Agency, be it

RESOLVED, that Joan Marsh of Wells, NY is hereby appointed to fill the vacancy of Robert Morrison to serve as a member of the Hamilton County Industrial Development Agency, and be it further

RESOLVED, the Clerk of the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors is hereby directed to file a Certificate of Appointment to the Hamilton County Industrial Development Agency with the New York State Secretary of State.

DIRECTOR OF EMERGENCY SERVICES, FIRE COORDINATOR AND EMS COORDINATOR

BE IT RESOLVED that Gordon L. Purdy, II is hereby appointed Director of Emergency Services for a term of January 1, 2021 ending December 31, 2021 at an hourly rate of $25.543 paid from Account No. A3640.101, and be it further

RESOLVED, that Jay Griffin is hereby appointed Fire Coordinator for the term of January 1, 2021 ending December 31, 2021 at an annual salary of $8,101.00 from Account No. A3640.103, and be it further

RESOLVED, that Avis Warner is hereby appointed EMS Coordinator for the term of January 1, 2021 ending December 31, 2021 and the County Treasurer and Personnel Officer be so advised.

AGREEMENT WITH HAMILTON COUNTY EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES COUNCIL, INC.

WHEREAS, Hamilton County EMS has re-organized, placing significant emphasis on training ambulance personnel, and

WHEREAS the EMS Coordinator and the Deputy EMS Coordinator will provide written report and financials to the Board of Supervisors regarding the need to contract with Hamilton County EMS for training, now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors hereby authorizes an agreement with Hamilton County EMS to provide training for 2021 in the amount of $5,000, and be it further

RESOLVED, that the Hamilton County Treasurer is hereby authorized to issue a check to the Hamilton County Emergency Medical Services Council, Inc. in the amount of $5,000.00, from Account No. A3640.0403 EMS Training.

HAMILTON COUNTY FIRE ADVISORY BOARD

WHEREAS, the Hamilton County Fire Coordinator, has requested the appointment of a County Fire Advisory Board, and

WHEREAS County Law Section 225-a provides the authority for the County Board of Supervisors to make such appointments, and

WHEREAS, the Fire Coordinator has worked through the Fire Chiefs from the various Fire Departments within Hamilton County to develop a list of representatives, as well as alternates in some instances, and

WHEREAS, the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors also has the authority to appoint a representative from those towns which are not serviced by a Department, now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the following appointments be made for the term of January 1, 2021- December 31, 2021:

Benson - James Lewek, Blue Mountain Lake - Chief Greg George, Asst Chief Charles Bruso, Hope - Chief Peter Robinson, Asst Chief Eric Robinson, Indian Lake - T.B.D., Inlet - Chief Dennis Hudson, Lake Pleasant - Chief Bill Wharton, Asst Chief Chris Hayes, Long Lake - Chief Anthony Clark, 1st Asst Chief John Walker, Morehouse - Chief James Luck, Brian Taylor, Piseco - Robert Kruggel, Steven Woeherle, Raquette Lake - Chief Mark Bird, Speculator - Chief Matt O’Brien, Mike Tracy, Wells - Chief Vince Lauria, Timothy O’Neill and be it also

RESOLVED, that a certified copy be forwarded to each Board member hereby appointed along with a copy to Don Purdy and Jay Griffin.

HIRE FIVE BOAT PATROLMEN TO SERVE IN SHERIFF’S OFFICE

WHEREAS, the Sheriff has reported to this Board there is a need for five boat patrolmen to patrol lakes in Hamilton County during the 2021 Summer Season (June through September), therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the Sheriff be authorized to hire five boat patrolmen for the 2021 Summer Season beginning June 19th with any advance required training authorized, and be it further

RESOLVED, that the County Treasurer be authorized to prepare proper contracts to submit to the State of New York to meet the requirements of the State of reimbursement.

CONTRACT WITH ESSEX COUNTY IDA FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE

WHEREAS, the Essex County Industrial Development Agency has agreed to continue to assist Hamilton County, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the County of Hamilton enter a one-year contract extension with the Essex County Industrial Development Agency to provide economic development assistance, support, grant writing assistance, and advice, for the period of January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021, not to exceed $10,000.00, and be it further

RESOLVED, the Chairman is authorized to sign said contract. Seconded by

APPOINTMENT OF COUNTY HISTORIAN

WHEREAS, the Education Law, Section 148, of the State of New York provides that the Board of Supervisors of each County shall appoint a County Historian, be it hereby

RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors of the County of Hamilton, State of New York, hereby appoints Ernest D. Virgil of Lake Pleasant, NY as County Historian for a term of one year commencing January 1, 2021 and ending on December 31, 2021, at an annual salary of $11,192.00 paid from Account No. A7510.0101 in bi-weekly installments and the County Treasurer and Personnel Officer be so advised.

VETERANS SERVICES CONTRACT

BE IT RESOLVED, that upon approval of the County Attorney, the Chairman of the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors is hereby authorized to sign a contract with Fulton County, within the meaning of Section 800 of County Law, to aid members of the armed forces and veterans and their dependents in Hamilton County in obtaining any benefits and awards to which they may be entitled under any Federal, State, or local legislation, and be it further

RESOLVED, that said contract shall be effective January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2021, and be it further

RESOLVED, that Hamilton County shall pay to Fulton County the sum of $16,500.00 per annum in quarterly installments on March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31, 2021, plus expenses incurred by the Director for travel, postage, telephone, office supplies, printing, flags, and markers, miscellaneous, conferences, schools, and seminars not to exceed $900.00.

FULTON COUNTY INFORMATION SERVICES CONTRACT- PROBATION

WHEREAS the Hamilton County Probation Department began contracting with the Fulton County Information Services Department to provide hosting and IT services for their Caseload Explorer Program on October 1, 2013, and,

WHEREAS, the Probation Department wishes to continue receiving this service, and WHEREAS, the Fulton County IT Department is willing to continue this service at a rate of $2,600.00 per year, be it

RESOLVED, that the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors is hereby authorized to sign a contract between the Hamilton County Probation Department and the Fulton County Information Services Department for $2,600.00 per year, effective January 1, 2021 - December 31, 2021.

FEDERAL SALARY SHARING TO BE UTILIZED TO COVER SHORTFALL IN STATE AID

WHEREAS the New York State Office of Mental Health (NYS OMH) enacted budget for 2019-20 provided $773,317.00 in revenue to Hamilton County to provide Mental Health services, and

WHEREAS the state instituted a twenty percent (20%) reduction for Mental Health Services for the last two (2) quarters of 2020 resulting in a decrease in state aid amounting to $69,652.00, and

WHEREAS Hamilton County Community Services was able to reduce expenses by $30,888.00 to reduce the impact to a net deficit of $38,764.00, and

WHEREAS Hamilton County Community Services can utilize $38,764.00 of unspent Federal Salary Sharing money currently in the General Fund balance, be it

RESOLVED, that the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors hereby authorizes the County Treasurer to utilize $38,764.00 from the Restricted General Fund Balance earmarked as the Community Services Federal Salary Sharing money to cover the shortfall and the County Treasurer be so advised

AGREEMENT WITH BERKSHIRE FARM CENTER AND SERVICES FOR YOUTH FOR NON- SECURE DETENTION SERVICES

WHEREAS, the County of Hamilton, on occasion is required to place juveniles in a non- secured detention facility, and

WHEREAS Berkshire Farm Center and Services for Youth operates two (2) non-secured detention facilities for juveniles placed with the Department of Social Services, and

WHEREAS Berkshire Farm Center and Services for Youth requires an agreement to place juveniles in their facility, now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that upon approval of the County Attorney, the Chairman of the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors is hereby authorized to enter into an unreserved usage agreement with Berkshire Farm Center and Services for Youth for the purposes of placing appropriate juveniles with a per diem rate for an unreserved bed of $475.00 and will be effective from January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2021.

COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COUNTY ATTORNEY AND THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES

WHEREAS it is necessary for the Department of Social Services to enter into a cooperative agreement with the County Attorney to justify and obtain funding for such representation, and

WHEREAS the Office of the County Attorney provides representation to the Department of Social Services through appointment of the Assistant County Attorney, be it

RESOLVED, that the Commissioner of the Hamilton County Department of Social Services, the Hamilton County Attorney, and the Hamilton County Chairman of the Board of Supervisors are hereby authorized to execute a Cooperation Agreement for the term of August 1, 2020 through July 31, 2021 between the Department of Social Services and the Hamilton County Attorney upon review of the Hamilton County Attorney.

FUNDING TWO NEW CASEWORKER POSITIONS- DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES

WHEREAS Resolution No. 342-20 adopted December 18, 2020 authorized two new Caseworker positions in the Department of Social Services, and

WHEREAS, Appropriation Accounts need to be created and funded in the 2021 County budget, be it

RESOLVED, that Account No. A6010.0118 Caseworker D and Account No. A6010.0119 Caseworker E be hereby created in the 2021 County budget, and be it further

RESOLVED, that the following transfer be made to fund these new accounts: From: A6070.403 Services for Recipients S/S TANF - $ 76,866.00

To: A6010.0118 Caseworker D $ 38,433.00

A6010.0119 Caseworker E $ 38,433.00 and the County Treasurer be so authorized.

LEASE WITH ONEWORKSOURCE

WHEREAS, the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors, working with the local WIOA, and the North Country Regional Workforce Investment Council (OneWorkSource), have worked out the details of a lease for the OneWorkSource space, and

WHEREAS, the lease will cover the period of January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2021, and

WHEREAS the monthly rent to be paid by said tenant will be $475.00 per month (to cover the use of the lease space together with the cost of heat, electricity, telephone, internet, and insurance), therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the Chairman of the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors is hereby authorized to enter, and sign said lease on behalf of Hamilton County, and be it further

RESOLVED, that certified copies be forwarded to Roberta Bly. Seconded by

AUTHORIZING CONTRACTS BETWEEN THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES, COMMUNITY SERVICES AND SHERIFF’S OFFICE FOR RAISE THE AGE SERVICES - HAMILTON COUNTY SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY PREVENTION INITIATIVE

WHEREAS, in 2018 NYS approved legislation to raise the age of criminal responsibility to 18 years of age; New York State was previously one of only two states that automatically prosecuted 16- and 17-year-olds as adults, and

WHEREAS, the Hamilton County Department of Social Services, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and the Hamilton County Probation Department have applied for funding for prevention of placement of these Raise the Age Youth, and

WHEREAS, Community Services has developed a Hamilton County School and Community Prevention Initiative that offers Hamilton County Schools Clinical Social Worker and Resource Officer services, and

WHEREAS, the Department of Social Services has been approved to use Raise the Age Funding for this program, be it

RESOLVED, that upon approval of the County Attorney, Hamilton County Community Services is hereby authorized to contract with the Hamilton County Department of Social Services for the Hamilton County School and Community Prevention Initiative for an amount not to exceed

$80,000.00 annually effective January 1, 2021-December 31, 2021, and be it further

RESOLVED, that upon approval of the County Attorney, Hamilton County Community Services is hereby authorized to contract with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office for the services of a Resource Officer, for an amount not to exceed $85,000.00 annually effective January 1, 2021-December 31, 2021.

AUTHORIZING CHAIRMAN TO SIGN AMENDED EISEP AGREEMENT WITH WARREN/HAMILTON COUNTY OFA FOR PCI AND PCII LEVEL SERVICES – PUBLIC HEALTH

WHEREAS, the Hamilton County Public Health Nursing Service has the capacity to provide personal care worker services for Hamilton County residents, and

WHEREAS Warren/Hamilton Office for the Aging wants to contract for PCI and PCII levels of service under the EISEP program with Hamilton County Public Health Nursing Service, and

WHEREAS the agreement for the period commencing April 1, 2020 – March 31, 2021 has been increased by $19,900 for a total of $55,000, be it

RESOLVED, that upon the County Attorney’s approval, the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors is hereby authorized to sign an amended agreement with Warren/Hamilton Office for the Aging for PCI and PCII level services under the EISEP program for a term of April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021 for a total of $55,000.00.

AUTHORIZING CHAIRMAN TO SIGN GRANT AGREEMENT BETWEEN WARREN/HAMILTON COUNTY OFA AND PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING SERVICE FOR TITLE III-E FUNDING

WHEREAS Warren/Hamilton Counties Office for the Aging has grant monies available to provide respite Home Health Aide Services under Title III-E for seniors who are patients of the Certified Home Health Agency and require these services to provide respite for caregivers, and

WHEREAS this agreement is for the period commencing January 1, 2021– December 31, 2021 for a total of $10,000.00, and

WHEREAS this anticipated funding was appropriated in the 2021 Municipal budget as a part of the budget development process, be it

RESOLVED, that the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors is hereby authorized to sign the grant agreement between the Office for the Aging and the Hamilton County Public Health Nursing Service upon approval of the County Attorney, and the County Treasurer be so notified.

USE OF COUNTY ROADS AS DESIGNATED FOR SNOWMOBILE USE

RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors hereby authorizes any town within the county to designate any County Road or part thereof for snowmobile usage for the year 2021, be it further

RESOLVED, if a town chooses to designate a County Road or any part thereof within that towns boundary the town shall follow all rules and regulations of designating a road for snowmobile use per the guidelines set forth in New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservations Snowmobile Unit and be subject to provide Hamilton County with an insurance certificate covering said use in favor of the County as an additional insured.

EXPENDITURES OF MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES FOR ROAD CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE PROJECTS

WHEREAS each year the DPW Superintendent needs to purchase materials and supplies for road construction projects, road maintenance projects and have some inventory available for emergencies for the county system, and

WHEREAS, in all instances the purchases are made through New York State Contract, Hamilton County awarded bids or through a piggyback contract bid from another county of New York State, and

WHEREAS most of these purchases are over the threshold of the County Highway Superintendents authority to purchase without either Chairman’s authorization or by board resolution authorizing the said purchases, and

WHEREAS these materials and supplies include but not limited to stone items, culverts, hot mix asphalt, equipment rental, road striping and general construction items, and

WHEREAS all expenditures for road projects (construction or maintenance) have been duly authorized by resolutions approved by the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors, be it

RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors does hereby authorize the County Highway Superintendent to purchase materials and supplies as needed without specific authorization for each purchase for road construction and maintenance projects that have been previously authorized by the Board Supervisors by resolution for 2021 and the County Treasurer and Clerk of the Board be so advised.

PURCHASE PICKUP TRUCK FOR 2021

WHEREAS, the County Board of Supervisors have duly adopted the 2021 Hamilton County Budget, and

WHEREAS, within the said adopted 2021 budget the Board appropriated $70,000.00 for equipment purchases for the Highway Department, and

WHEREAS, Hamilton County currently has a bid in place for 2021 Pickup Trucks, and WHEREAS, the Highway Superintendent recommends that the department purchase one (1) pickup truck for use in 2021 as follows: (1) 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 4X4 Crew Cab - $35,178. be it

RESOLVED, that the Fleet Coordinator is hereby authorized to order one (1) 2021 Chevrolet pickup from Carbone Auto Group for the DPW as mentioned herein for a total of $35,178.00 delivered and the County Treasurer, Fleet Coordinator and the Clerk of the Board be so notified.

Foxy Brown X-Ski Trail

 Foxy Brown X-Ski Trail

The Foxy Brown X-Ski Trail is a 5.6-mile trail located within the Jessup River Wild Forest. After traveling along the Piseco Airport runway, the trail routes users primarily through a northern hardwood forest. To complete the loop, users must cross the runway, so be sure to check for oncoming aircraft before traveling back to the trailhead and parking area.

In 2019, DEC entered into a Volunteer Stewardship Agreement with Piseco Lake Association (PLA) allowing PLA to maintain the trail. During the 2020 field season, DEC Lands & Forest staff and PLA volunteers made the following improvements:

Construction of a 150’ ski bridge

Replacement-in-kind by the PLA board of a 25’ ski bridge

Repairs to an existing bridge

Brushing and blowdown removal on the 6.2-mile trail

Installation of new signage and trail markers, including mileage markers every quarter of a mile.

Removal of foot snags and large rocks from the trail tread

Environmentalist rather save trees than human lives.

 Supervisors December 3 part two 2020

Environmentalist rather save trees than human lives.

By PETE KLEIN

LAKE PLEASANT—When the Hamilton County Board of Supervisors met on December 3 and in addition to resolutions approved and previously reported, the supervisors discussed other items to include those mentioned below.

ROAD SALT

County Board of Supervisors Chairman William Farber said Tracy Eldridge, Highway Superintendent, had sent the Board a copy of the letter the NYS County Highway Superintendents Association signed, including everyone in the North Country region, related to road salt and specifically the road salt litigation. He felt that it was a good idea for Eldridge to join one of their meetings to discuss rather than through email.

Eldridge asked the Board if they had received the copy of the letter and if they had a chance to read it. He addressed how road salt is a tricky subject. He feels that this is a feel-good legislation and a win for the environmentalists. The players involved have no road expertise and feels that if they really do want to make a difference, they need that on the task force. He stated that the Association is still going to try to push getting professionals on the task force to get that balanced approach.

Farber asked the Board their opinion on helping Eldridge anyway possible and then offered their help by sending a letter or adopting a resolution if he wanted it.

Eldridge stated that the County will have to fight the battle for NYSDOT as well. Farber stated that Eldridge had a resolution on the agenda and asked the Board to look at it to see if there was an easy fix to better position the County. Including that there was always the option of reinforcing the issue of appointments. Eldridge stated that if the resolution were tabled until the next meeting, to further discuss, he did not feel that it would hinder anything. He and Farber discussed chapter amendments. Farber further discussed doing a draft resolution where all the colleagues endorse and then get it out to all the County’s where they are represented as well as the State Associations. Eldridge stated that he would make the changes, then send it to his colleagues for their opinion before submitting it to the Board for December 18.

Eldridge updated the Board regarding the fuel tanks in Indian Lake at Department of Social Services as well as the County Clerk/Jail in Lake Pleasant. The tank has been replaced in Indian Lake. He received a bid from R.L. Dalrymple for $12,448.63 but when the tank was removed there was some contamination. The amount they removed was around 12 ton. They have had the soil tested and hope to get it closed soon. The cost had gone up because the geologist spent more time than expected. The total cost is now $17,005.87. He will be doing a resolution for December 18. He stated that they have also figured out the heating problem for the Indian Lake building as well. The tank has been removed at County Clerk’s in Lake Pleasant. The soil was clean and the close out report has been completed. Since everything is tore up, he decided to replace the lines going into the jail as well as the Courthouse. But, given the weather, he has postponed this until spring along with the drainage. This project will all be done in-house. He will be billed for the piping ordered through R.L. Dalrymple and he will do a resolution to pay for that.

Farber stated that he feels the Board does not have any other option. Eldridge stated that there is a good temporary tank fueling County Clerk for the time being.

Eldridge stated that the overhead lights in the parking lot of the Indian Lake building need to be replaced. He originally thought it was a timer issue but found it is not. Mark Stuart, Building Project Supervisor, has ordered the lights and he hopes to have them done early that following week.

Eldridge said there needs to be something done about the scale at the Lake Pleasant Transfer Station. He also brought up an incident that occurred at the Indian Lake Transfer Station. He and Supervisor Wells had met that morning with the employees that work there. During the conversation they realized they should put an ad in the paper stating the Transfer Station will be closed between 12-1 PM. He feels that it makes sense, so the employees have a chance to take a lunch break.

Frey stated that in Inlet they have been having issues with commercial people pulling in with full loads 5 minutes before closing. They have changed to 10 hour shifts since COVID started and are going to keep doing that going forward. It is mandatory to give the employees a 1-hour lunch break and found closing 15 minutes prior gives the people time to clear out. Thought it was food for thought since Eldridge was considering doing the same thing at the Indian Lake Transfer Station.

Eldridge thanked him for that and stated he was still working on the logistics. Once he has it figured out, he will be putting it in the paper for the public. He stated that Wells did strongly agree with this.

Eldridge stated that they are getting close to snow and ice mode. The guiderail is being installed on Gilmantown Road and should be completed in a week. He talked about bridges for both Fayle and Haskell Road Bridge in February. Will also be doing the Oxbow culvert at the same time.

REPORTS OF STANDINGS AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES

Indian Lake Supervisor Brian Wells stated that there was an Internal Management Committee meeting that morning for employee evaluations. He feels the evaluation went very well.

Inlet Supervisor John Frey said his thanks again to everyone for their hard work on the budget.

Arietta Supervisor Rick Wilt stated that he is still working with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to get the one tower a little bit higher. He is not sure that will happen but feels that it will work at the 45 feet. Board of Supervisors Chairman William Farber stated that from their call that week, he thought the consensus sounded like it may work with some tree cutting. He feels that if the microwave path study were to come back saying that it really must be 53 feet then it would give them something substantive to go back to FAA with.

Long Lake Supervisor Clay Arsenault shared his excitement about potentially incorporating the Buck Mountain Fire Tower as part of the Fire Tower Challenge. He said it needs some work but feels it will be very well used. Farber went on to elaborate about the Fire Tower Challenge and thanked Arsenault for his time on this.

Lake Pleasant Supervisor Betsy Bain said she had joined the earlier Professional Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting, but it started late, and she had to switch to the Board Meeting, so she did not have anything.

Farber stated he had been inadvertently dropped from the invitation list and that he was not sure how the PAC meeting got scheduled for the same time as the Board Meeting. He had spoken with Erica Mahoney, Public Health Director, regarding future scheduling.

This article is based upon the minutes of Laura Abrams, Clerk of the Board.

Inlet accepts and rejects bids

 Inlet TB Nov 10 2020

Inlet accepts and rejects bids

By PETE KLEIN

INLET—When the Inlet Town Board met on November 10, it accepted and rejected bids on highway and police items.

Highway Superintendent Shawn Hansen reported he listed our surplus items/vehicles on Auctions International. He said we have a bid of $1,500 for the green pickup, which I would say sell. We have a bid for $135 for the wing. I say reject the bid. Wanted more like $1,500 - $2,000. The police car has a final bid of $6,200.

Hansen reported highway is now on our winter hours. 5 days a week 6 am to 2:30 pm.

Councilman Schmid made a motion to accept the $6,200 bid on the used police vehicle that was placed in auction. Councilman Levi Seconded the motion

5 Ayes 0 Nays Motion Carried.

Hansen said we hauled garbage and recyclables. Plowed and sanded. Pushed up sand in shed. Blew leaves on Uncas Rd, Townsend Trail and Tobie Trail. Raked a portion of Uncas Rd. Hung plow frames and got trucks ready to plow snow. Assisted the Trails team with putting up snow fence for snowmobile trails. Worked on our new facility. I moved into my new office. Currently working on lights on the building. Boiler is hung on the wall, which is going to be the priority as soon as we finish the project in the park.

Hoping to have functioning garage doors soon.

Coming up: Haul garbage and recyclables Plow and sand. Finish up water mitigation project in the park. Finish blowing leaves on Uncas Rd and rake rest of the road Get equipment ready for winter

TRANSFER STATION

Open 4 days a week from 8 am to 11:45 am and 1 pm to 6:45 pm. Closed on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. Place is clean and orderly. Working on getting bailed plastics shipped out.

COMMUNICATIONS

Chip mentioned that Tarpon Towers will come Thursday for a site survey.

CAP 21

There are 167 adults that received assistance for the COVID relief, not 267.

TOWN CLERK

Reported revenues for the month of October. Town Clerk Yvonne Lutz asked to use $4,200 of the balance left in beautification to buy pole decorations, banners, and other decorations to really decorate the Town. With everything going on, it might help lift spirits. She pointed out that we did not spend firework money either this year. Also mentioned that she would like to start a “lights in the park” walkway with Christmas decorations throughout Arrowhead Park. Mentioned maybe local businesses would donate a decoration to sponsor with their name next to it. Some discussion followed.

Supervisor Frey made a motion to spend $1,550 on pole decorations and banners this year. councilman Levi seconded. 5 ayes 0 nays motion carried

SUPERVISOR

Supervisor John Frey said the Town tax rate is not increasing, therefore, if your assessment stays the same so will your taxes. Councilman Schmid made a Motion to file a Tax Cap Override just in case. With some New York State calculations, they have determined in the past that we needed to pass this. Councilman Brownsell Seconded the motion. Town Clerk polled the Board Councilman Brownsell AYE Councilman Townsend AYE Councilman Levi AYE Councilman Schmid AYE Supervisor Frey AYE Motion Carried

Supervisor Frey stated that at this point the County is at a 1.5% increase. The County employees are not getting a COLA increase, however, will be getting Merit.

At this point South Shore Road is still on schedule to be done with County project funds.

TRAILS

Chip Sauer said he would like to buy a new side by side groomer. Feels it is needed for some of the inner trails that are difficult to groom adequately. The question was asked if it would make FX Matts Trail open early? Chip said it would. Discussion on different types of machines and how to make it happen financially followed.

This article is based upon the minutes of Yvonne Lutz, Town Clerk.