Monday, February 17, 2020

Wells gets organized

Wells TB Jan 13 2020


Wells gets organized
By PETE KLEIN
WELLS—The Wells Town Board held its Annual Organizational Meeting and Regular Meeting on January 13, 2020.
ORGANIZATION ITEMS
On a Motion of Councilperson Saltis, seconded by Councilperson Lauria, Resolutions 1-48, organizing the Town of Wells for 2020 were approved
RESOLVED, that the Town Supervisor shall submit to the Town Clerk within 60 days after the close of the fiscal year a copy of the Annual Update Document to the State Comptroller of all town moneys received and disbursed by him throughout the year. (Town Law section 29; subdivision 10A)
RESOLVED, that the Town Highway Superintendent may purchase equipment, tools, and implements for the Highway Department during the year 2020 without prior approval of the Town Board in an amount not to exceed $1,000. (Highway Law section 142; subdivision 1A)
RESOLVED, that the Highway Superintendent be paid every (2) weeks with the pay period ending on Wednesday. The Superintendent will deliver the payroll on Thursday and employees will receive their checks on Fridays.
RESOLVED, that all town employees are paid every two (2) weeks with the pay period ending on Wednesdays. The Superintendent will deliver the payroll on Thursdays and the employees will receive their checks on Fridays.
RESOLVED, that salaries of all elective and appointed officers be fixed as to the amounts respectively specified in the adopted Final Town Budget for 2020 and that said salaries be paid monthly, except the Register of Vital Statistics, Budget Office, Deputy Supervisor, Deputy Town Clerk, Deputy Highway Superintendent, Town Historian and the Board of Review who shall be paid annually.
RESOLVED, that any Town Officer should be compensated for the use of their automobile in the performance of their official duties at a rate of $0.58 per mile. (Town Law section 116)
RESOLVED, that the Town Board authorizes the Town Supervisor to designate a Bookkeeper and Confidential Secretary for the Town and Water District #1. (Town Law section 29; subdivision 15) The Supervisor designates Jen Woodward for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the Town Board Appoints Mary Ellen Stofelano as Registrar of Vital Statistics for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the Town of Wells designates a Building and Fire Code Enforcement Officer, who shall enforce the N.Y.S Building Code. The Town Board Appoints Kevin Helm Code Enforcement Officer for 2020. (Town Law section 138; subdivision 1)
RESOLVED, that the Highway Superintendent appoints a bookkeeper. The appointment shall be Jen Woodward for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the Town Board appoints a water rent collector for Water District #1. The Town Board appointment shall be Mary Ellen Stofelano for 2020 and the appointment for Billing Services for Water District #1 shall be Jen Woodward for 2020 with total amounts being reviewed by the Town Board.
RESOLVED, that the Town Board appoints a Town Attorney. The Town Board appointment shall be Walsh & Walsh, Saratoga Springs, NY for 2020. The attorney shall be Joseph Walsh. (Town Law section 20; subsection 2b)
RESOLVED, that the town pays the Association of Towns, The Hamilton County Association of Highway Superintendents, The New York State Magistrates Associations, Town Clerks, Assessors, County Legislators, Supervisors Associations of New York, The Adirondack Local Government Review Board and Adirondack Association of Towns and Villages dues for 2020.
RESOLVED, that Town Board members may attend the Association of Towns meeting in February 2020, and the payment of “actual and necessary” expenses in doing so, are specifically authorized by State Law as legitimate proper town charges.
RESOLVED, that all Elective and Appointed officials may attend seminars and educational schooling with prior board approval and that payment of “actual and necessary” expenses in doing so be proper town charges in 2020.
RESOLVED, that Town Board appoints Carrie O’Neill Court Clerk of the Wells Town Court in 2020. (Public Officers Law section 3 (8))
RESOLVED, that the Town Board designate an official newspaper of the Town of Wells. (Town Law section 64; subsection 11) The Town Board designates the Leader-Herald for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the Town Board approves the payment in advance of Audits of Claims for Public Utility Services, Postage Stamps, and Health Insurance. (Town Law section 118; subsection 2)
RESOLVED, that the Town Board authorizes a “Petty Cash Fund” for the Town Clerk of $50.
RESOLVED, that the Town Board approves a fixed charge of $0.25 per copy (more than 5 copies) for use of the town-owned copier at the Town Clerk’s Office.
RESOLVED, that ALL “Full-Time” town employees participate in the Wells Drug and Alcohol Policy, and that the policy is reviewed at the Annual Organization Meeting and accepted for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the Town will pay health benefits for eligible “Retired” employees with coverage under Mohawk Valley Partners “Gold”. Spouses have 60 days before termination upon the death of the retiree.
RESOLVED, that the Town will pay health insurance benefits for the elected Highway Superintendent under the same conditions & terms as other full-time employees.
RESOLVED, that the Town Board standardizes the 40-hour work week for 2020 as follows: January 1st through April 3rd: Monday – Friday 6:00am-2:30pm; April 6th through October 30th: Monday – Thursday 6:00am to 4:30pm; November 2nd through December 31st: Monday – Friday 6:00am to 2:30pm
RESOLVED, that a fee for the use of the community hall is set at $75.00 (non-refundable) and a fee for the use of the pavilion is set at $50.00 (deposit only). These fees are to be paid one full week in advance to keep the date for the facility open. The use of this building is for the residents/taxpayers of Wells ONLY! Persons renting the hall for any function MUST be a resident or taxpayer of the Town of Wells. All persons renting or using town properties will sign an indemnity/hold harmless agreement.  When the service and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages are involved the renter shall furnish the Town of Wells with a copy of their insurance or a rider on their Homeowners Insurance Policy, which names the persons and/or entity and the Town as co-insured for the rental period. The minimum amount of insurance will be ($1,000,000) One Million Dollars.
RESOLVED, that the Town Board designates NBT Bank and Bank of America as official banks for the deposits of all money for the Town of Wells in an amount not to exceed Two Million Dollars each. (Town Law section 11)
RESOLVED, that the Town of Wells Supervisor may invest surplus money in certificates of deposit. (Town Law section 11)
RESOLVED, that all travel and expense vouchers from elected and appointed officials shall be submitted for reimbursement no later than 10 days prior to a regularly scheduled town board meeting.
RESOLVED, that the regular monthly meetings of the Town Board, Town of Wells be held in the Senior Meal Site/Ambulance Corp building at 7:00pm.
 on the following dates: (Town Law section 62)
RESOLVED, that the public is encouraged to attend regular town board meetings but may only speak at the discretion of the Town Board. A public comment period shall be scheduled at the beginning of each meeting to take comment(s) on agenda items scheduled for board action only and at the end of each meeting for general concerns. During each public comment period, no member of the public shall be permitted to address the board unless recognized and shall address their remarks to the town board, not other members of the audience, in an orderly and constructive manner.
RESOLVED, that the Town of Wells has a Fixed Assets Policy outlining the general steps and rules for fixed assets and that this policy is reviewed at the Annual Organization meeting and accepted for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the Town of Wells has a written Internal Policy and Procedures governing all procurements of goods and services not required by law to be made pursuant to competitive bidding requirements. These policies and procedures are to be reviewed at the Annual Organization meeting and accepted for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the Town of Wells maintains an Investment Policy that is to be reviewed at the Annual Organization meeting and accepted for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the elected Highway Superintendent be appointed Safety Coordinator. The Town Board appoints Clay Earley Safety Coordinator for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the Town of Wells maintains a Safety and Transitional Duty Policy that is to be reviewed at the Annual Organization meeting and accepted for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the Town of Wells maintains a Personnel Policy that is to be reviewed at the Annual Organization meeting and accepted for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the Town of Wells Water District maintains an installation and maintenance of water lines policy that is to be reviewed at the Annual Organization meeting and accepted for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the Town of Wells maintains a Fleet Driver Procedure Manual and a Use of Emergency Apparatus Policy that is to be reviewed at the Annual Organization meeting and accepted for 2020.
RESOLVED, that all elected and appointed Officials may purchase Health Insurance through the town’s group policy at their own expense.
RESOLVED, that the Town of Wells is authorized to provide undertakings for town officers, clerks and employees through a blanket undertaking insurance policy. (NYS Public Officers Law 11)
RESOLVED, that the Town Justice Court must obtain approval of the Town Board prior to appointment or hire of a stenographer in 2020.
RESOLVED, that Town of Wells maintains a Local Privacy Notification Policy that is to be reviewed at the Annual Organization meeting and accepted for 2020.
RESOLVED, that the Town Board accepts the Annual Reports of the Town Clerk and Town Justice(s) as reviewed at the Close-out meeting of December 27, 2019.
RESOLVED, that Town of Wells maintains a Rules & Regulations of Operating Emergency Apparatus Policy that is to be reviewed at the Annual Organization meeting and accepted for 2020.
RESOLVED, that Town of Wells maintains a Water Main Extension Policy that is to be reviewed at the Annual Organization meeting and accepted for 2020.
RESOLVED, that pursuant to the provisions of Section 284 of State Highway Law, the Town Board does hereby agree that moneys received from the State of New York for Capital Highway Improvement under the CHIPS Program for the repair and improvement on 34.32 miles of Town Roads during the 2020 fiscal year shall be expended at the discretion of the Town Superintendent of Highway in accordance with CHIPS guidelines.
RESOLVED, that the Finance Committee will audit all supporting books, records, receipts, warrants, vouchers, and canceled checks for 2019 of the Tax Collector, Town Clerk, and Town Justices. (Town Law 123)
COMMUNITY WATER ASSISTANCE GRANT
On a motion of Councilperson Hunt, seconded by Councilperson Saltis, the following was APPROVED
WHEREAS, the Town of Wells is a Municipal Corporation of the State of New York, having its offices at 1438 State Route 30, with a mailing address of P.O. Box 205, Wells, NY 12190 (“Town”); and
WHEREAS, the Town & Hamilton County declared a State of Emergency on November 1, 2019 after storm damage and flooding which washed away a portion of the water main bridge crossing located at Algonquin Drive (C.R. 5) over the Sacandaga River; and
WHEREAS, the Town is seeking financial assistance for costs associated with the above referenced Project from the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development (“USDA RD”) Emergency and Imminent Community Water Assistance Grant (“ECWAG”) program; and
RESOLVED, that the Town hereby authorizes the Town Supervisor to complete the required steps associated with the ECWAG application process, and
RESOLVED, that the Town will complete the Public Notice of Intent to File the Application and publish a “one-time” notice in the newspaper within 60 days of filing a full application for the grant per the funding agency requirements.
ENGINEERING SERVICES WITH CEDARWOOD ENGINEERING
On a motion of Councilperson Hunt, seconded by Councilperson Crewell, the following was APPROVED
WHEREAS, the Town of Wells is a Municipal Corporation of the State of New York, having its offices at 1438 State Route 30, with a mailing address of P.O. Box 205, Wells, NY 12190 (“Town”); and
WHEREAS, the Town & Hamilton County declared a State of Emergency on November 1, 2019 after storm damage and flooding which washed away a portion of the water main bridge crossing located at Algonquin Drive (C.R. 5) over the Sacandaga River; and
WHEREAS, the Town is seeking financial assistance for costs associated with the above referenced Project from the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development (“USDA RD”) Emergency and Imminent Community Water Assistance Grant (“ECWAG”) program; and
RESOLVED, that the Town hereby authorizes the Town Supervisor to complete the required steps associated with the ECWAG application process, and
RESOLVED, that the Town will complete the Public Notice of Intent to File the Application and publish a “one-time” notice in the newspaper within 60 days of filing a full application for the grant per the funding agency requirements.
CURRENT STATUS OF HYDROELECTRIC PLANT
Supervisor Mauro reported the hydro plant has been online for over a week and running flawlessly. Last Saturday as it was running wind hit and he had to re-start it and did so with no issues. All good, now we can generate its revenue source.
He also mentioned he with assistance from Lenny, Hamilton County Soil & Water Conservation is preparing a letter requesting assistance from the Environmental Water Assistance Program which would cover 75% of expenses related to the flood damage. Parkers Park bank was a recommended location for this funding as the bank needs to be built back up.
Tomorrow, Supervisor Mauro, Highway Superintendent Earley, Councilperson Crewell and Bookkeeper Jen Woodward will attend a FEMA briefing at the Lake Pleasant Fire Hall where they will learn of any potential funding for infrastructure.
Councilperson Crewell added she had confirmed with Don Purdy, Disaster Emergency Manager for Hamilton County, that FEMA denied individual assistance on January 2. Governor Cuomo sent an appeal to FEMA on January 3, so still moving on that. The Public Assistance component regarding infrastructure has been approved. She will be bringing vouchers as to monies already spent for repairs and explain how severely impacted the Town was. This meeting will also consist of training on how to access the website to report damage related expense and reimbursement procedures.
OTHER BUSINESS
Councilperson Saltis reported that she is beginning the paperwork process for the Summer Rec program.
Councilperson Lauria reported that the Friends of Lake Algonquin are investigating an Invasive Species Grant through NYS DEC which could be submitted next year. Also, the organization would like to construct informational boxes at the fishing pier and boat launch educating the public about invasive species which would likely need Board approval prior to construction.
Councilperson Crewell has a meeting scheduled with Justin Gonya from Hudson Consulting regarding grants for municipalities.
Supervisor Mauro read an email sent to him from Mark Ellis who is spearheading the Green House Project. The project has been awarded a federal grant to build a greenhouse over the community garden. The 32 ft. by 64 ft. greenhouse has been ordered and will be looking for volunteers to help construct it. He hopes to have a working weekend/barbecue.
Supervisor Mauro read an email sent to him from Joan Marsh regarding this year’s Community Pride Day. She would like to plan it in May on a Saturday verses a weekday so more families could get involved. Supervisor Mauro mentioned to be watchful of certain dates as clean up week is typically the first week, then Mother’s Day and Memorial Day. The highway crew should be able to assist.
Holly Hite mentioned the “Flood Party” sponsored by the Seniors and Ambulance Corps which will be held Sunday, January 26 beginning at 5pm at Community Hall. The party will honor all Highway Department guys, Fire Department, the Ice Racers and all others who volunteered their time to help their neighbors in need during and after the flood. Volunteers are to bring nothing, cold cuts, drinks and covered dishes will be provided.
Avis Warner spoke of a County wide program Vulnerable Population Registry which all towns are asked to participate that identifies people who are in need when a flood or severe storm occurs.
Dee Parker asked the Town to recognize Helen Buyce’s 100 birthday on February 2. The Seniors are sending cards and Supervisor Mauro said he would purchase a card from him and on behalf of the Town. Councilperson Hunt suggested a resolution proclaiming February 2-Helen Buyce Day. It was suggested copying other resolutions from the past.
Vince Abbott-Forgione was glad to hear the good news about the Hydro Plant. He then asked what went on with the dam during the last rain event when the lake level rose and there was flooding. Supervisor Mauro said there was no flooding as he was monitoring the water level. Mr. Forgione said while his home didn’t flood, there was flooding on his property. Supervisor Mauro said the water never went over the retaining wall at the beach, Mr. Forgione said it crested over the wall and asked why the gates can’t be opened earlier. Supervisor Mauro said it is normal to have a foot of water over the spillway. Mr. Forgione, couldn’t we have lowered the lake by a foot by being proactive not re-active. Supervisor Mauro responded that he will not drain the lake every time we expect an inch and a half of water. Mr. Forgione isn’t asking or recommending that the lake be drained, only brought down accordingly. Supervisor Mauro responded, as the water level rose, he made adjustments and raised the gates. He also said if heavy rain is expected, 4 inches or more, then absolutely he would take down the lake.

This story is based upon the minutes of Maryellen Stofelano, Town Clerk.

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