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Meeting Minutes 2020

Town Board – March 2020

CLERMONT TOWN BOARD MINUTES
MARCH 2, 2020

The Clermont Town Board held its regular meeting on Monday, March 2, 2020 at 7:00 P.M. at

the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson, Councilwoman Lindsey Lusher Shute and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve. There were three others present.

Supervisor Staats opened the meeting with the salute to the flag. A motion was made to move into executive session to discuss contract negotiations by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve at 7:00 P.M. All in favor. So carried. A motion was made to come out of executive session at 7:25 by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.

MINUTES:

A motion was made to accept the minutes by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor. So carried.

TOWN CLERK’S REPORT: The Town Clerk presented a check for the General Fund to the Supervisor in the amount of $345.11.

CORRESPONDENCE:

  • Columbia County Department of Health Free Rabies Clinics for 2020. Will be posted on the Town website and at the town hall.
  • Keeping Identities of Seniors Safe – 3/16/20 to 3/27/20 on Thursday 6:00 to 8:00 PM and Saturdays 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
  • List of dates and times for Elections for 2020. Seeking Election Workers – contact Board of Elections at 518-828-3115.
  • Supervisor Staats submitted the budget and revenue reports to the Board for February.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

  • Councilwoman Lusher Shute reported on the Park. Seeking funding for the park entrance for plantings and fencing and park signage. There will be a special meeting on Monday, March 16th at 6:30 P.M.
  • Councilwoman Brownson has been looking at grants for the park. AARP has a grant opportunity due April 1st. The Iroquois Community Grant for an available amount up to $10,000.00 due May 1st could be written for screening.
  • Councilwoman Brownson reported that the County Historian will be having a Sacred Sites Open House and will hold it at the Clarkson Chapel on Route 9G, 5/16/2020 and 5/17/2020. She would like to have St. Luke’s Church open on one of the days.
  • Councilman Gildersleeve has been working on getting some information and documents updated on the new website.

OLD BUSINESS:

  • Policy Updates: Supervisor Staats has submitted our Sexual Harassment Policy and Workplace Violence Policy to the County for recommendations to update the policies.
  • The town is also looking at a registration/permit system for special events, wedding venues so that we can know how many events are being held and if they are following what was approved for their permit.
  • Sales Tax Revenue: Received check for 4th quarter in the amount of $102,490.30 and the Supervisor urged residents to shop locally.

NEW BUSINESS:

  • RESOLUTION NO. 39 OF 2020: To approve our Attorney, Andrew Howard of Freeman-Howard, to enter into a negotiated Order of Settlement with Pleasant Vale Farm, LLC to reduce their real property tax assessment from $875,000 to $800,000.

A motion was made to approve by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So carried.

  • RESOLUTION NO. 40 OF 2020: The Supervisor has requested a speed limit reduction on a section of County Route 19 in the Town of Clermont between Elizaville Falls and the Milan Town line in Dutchess County. The speed limit on either end is 45 MPH but this section is 55 MPH. The resolution was approved on a motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor. So carried.
  • ESTATE SETTLEMENT: The town has received a check relating to the distribution from the trust of Julia M. Ross who was a resident of Clermont. She lived and worked in Clermont.

SUPERVISORS REPORT:

  • PARK COMMITTEE: There will be a special meeting on Monday, March 16th at 6:30 P.M. to discuss going forward with the park plan. Amy Parella asked if there would be separate committees and if the plan would be officially adopted in full or in part. These issues will be part of the discussion.
  • Columbia County Hazardous Waste Collection Day: To be held on Saturday, May 9th from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the County Highway Garage, Route 23A, Greenport.
  • There are burn restrictions effective Monday, March 16th to May 15th.
  • The Supervisor reported that the County did not vote on a proposal to make vaccinations mandatory for Camp Counselors.

ABSTRACTS:

  • A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson to approve General abstract #3A, vouchers #47-79 in the amount of $8,481.96. All in favor. So carried.
  • A motion was made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve General prepaid abstract #3, vouchers #44 – 46 in the amount of $254.80. All in favor. So carried.
  • A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond to approve Highway abstract #3, vouchers #15 – 25 in the amount of $6059.69. All in favor So carried.
  • A motion was made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve Trust & Agency abstract #3, vouchers 3 – 5 in the amount of $1,813.50. All in favor. So carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT:
None

A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute to adjourn at 8:05 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,
Mary Helen Shannon, RMC
Town Clerk

Fire Commissioners – February 2020

CLERMONT FIRE COMMISSIONERS

FEBRUARY 17, 2020

The Clermont Fire Commissioners held their monthly meeting on Monday, February 17, 2020 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Commissioner Susan Rifenburgh, Commissioner Laurence Saulpaugh, Commissioner Ronald Miller, Commissioner Raymond Bauer and Commissioner Joseph Scott, Jr. Also present were Chief Lloyd Kukon, 1st Assistant Evan Decker, Treasurer Denise Fiore, Robert Desmond and Peter Fingar of Fingar Insurance Agency.

Chairwoman Rifenburgh opened the meeting with the salute to the flag.

MINUTES: A motion was made to accept the minutes of the January 20, 2020 Organizational Meeting and the regular meeting by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.

Chairwoman Rifenburgh introduced Peter Fingar of Fingar Insurance Agency to speak to the board regarding our insurance coverage for 2020-2021. He went over all of our coverage and the limits of liability for each. Our liability limit for Mutual aid is $1,000,000.00 with an umbrella amount of $3,000,000.00. Our premium is increased by $312.00 to $12,217. Of this, the fire company will pay $1,869. The Commissioners thanked him for coming in.

TREASURERS REPORT:

February 17, 2020 Fire Commissioners’ Treasurer’s Report

RE: January 2020

Total Amount of January 2020 Invoices Paid________________$ 4,885.39

RE: February 2020

Proposed February 2020 Invoices ________________________$ 17,364.66

Paid February 2020 Invoices _____________________________$ 2,892.30

——————————-Total_____________________________$ 20,256.96

Reconciliation of Accounts

The Bank of Greene County Balances to Date

Money Market Checking Balance________________________$ 75,507.52*
*Includes interest paid on 1/31/2020 in the amount of $10.02
Does not include deposit $167,664.00 made on 2/10/2020

Checking Balance______________________________________$ 3,219.94

Less Outstanding Checks________________________________$ 2,200.50

Checking Balance to Date_______________________________$ 1,019.44

Money Market & Checking A/C Total______________________$ 76,526.96

Capital Reserve Fund for Fire Equipment__________________$41,786.91 (as of 12/31/19)

—-Interest 1/1/2020 – 1/31/2020________________________$ 5.30

—————————————————–Total_______________$41,786.91

Capital Reserve Fund for Constr. &Improvement: __________$ 33,717.36 (as of 12/31/19)

———–Interest 1/1/2020 – 1/31/2020________________________$ 4.28

——————————————————Total_______________$ 33,721.64

Denise Fiore, Treasurer
February 17, 2020

A motion was made by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Miller to accept the Treasurers report for February. All in favor. So carried.

CORRESPONDENCE:

  • Physical for Lloyd Kukon received
  • RBC Wealth Management annual statement for 2019 – $418,454.77
  • RBC Wealth Management statement for January – $417,160.42.
  • Milan Contract for 2020 to be signed and returned for signature.
  • Association of Fire Distracts newsletter for February – March.
  • The lease with the fire company for the bays at Station #1 will expire on June 30, 2025.
  • Four members attended the Stop the Bleed Course – Les Coon, Lloyd Kukon, Evan Decker and Evan Tompkins.
  • Treasurer Fiore reported that the tax cap for 2021 will be 1.8%.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS: Commissioners Bauer and Saulpaugh

  • Commissioner Bauer would like to put an electric eye for the outside light because he sees that it is left on a lot. Will try putting up a sign first to turn off light.
  • Suggested putting up some kind of fencing, such as stockade, for the extrication area.

The chief has been talking with Commissioners Bauer and Saulpaugh on this.

INSURANCE: Commissioners Miller and Scott

  • This was discussed with Peter Fingar earlier in the meeting.

FIRE EQUIPMENT: Commissioners Bauer and Saulpaugh

  • Truck 6034 – There was a problem with the charging system. Assistant Chief Decker will order three new batteries, which he believes is the problem, and put them in tomorrow.
  • The left rear brake has been hanging up. It was suggested having the truck checked out by Ben Funk for any issues before listing it for sale. An appointment will be made to take it to Ben Funk’s. Commissioner Bauer asked if the equipment check off sheets are being done and was told they are.

LOSAP: Commissioners S. Rifenburgh ad Miller

  • Commissioners Rifenburgh and Miller will be working on this before next meeting.

LAWS AND POLICIES: All Commissioners
No report

LEGAL: All Commissioners
No report

OLD BUSINESS:
None

NEW BUSINESS:

  • Drivers Testing – Commissioner Bauer asked if Ron Rifenburgh will still be doing the drivers testing? The Chief will work with Ron Rifenburgh and Assistant Chief Decker using the pumper.
  • The County offers the EVOC Course.
  • The Chief reported that because of the Cancer benefit program, gear has to be cleaned down and cannot be returned to the firehouse until it is decontaminated. It must be recorded on the call sheet that the gear was decontaminated.

CHIEFS REPORT:

There were five calls in January as follows:

1/6/20 – CO Detector activation – 149 Common s Road

1/10/20 – Automatic Fire alarm – 651 County Route 6

1/12/20 – Automatic Fire Alarm – 651 County Route 6

1/22/20 – Chimney Fire – 930 Woods Road

1/27/20 – Automatic Fire Alarm – 726 Woods Road

Monthly Drills/Work Details

1/6/20 – Officers Meeting – 6 firefighters attended

1/27/20 – Ice Rescue Drill – 7 firefighters attended

1/29/20 – Ice Rescue Drill – Airport – 7 Firefighters attended

1/30/20 – Special Detail – Bingo at Firemens Home – 7 firefighters attended

  • The Chief reported that the dates for OSHA training have been set.
  • He has asked to purchase SCBA masks, one large, one small from MES for $598.00 for both. A motion was made by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer to purchase two masks for $598.00. All in favor. So carried.
  • The Chief asked to buy gloves from NY Fire Equipment, one small for $75.00, and 4 hoods for $90.00 each ($360.00). A motion was made by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer to purchase one small pair of gloves at $75.00 and 4 hoods at $90.00 each. All in favor. So carried.
  • Will be meeting with Tivoli Fire Department on mutual aid response radio communications.
  • The County Training Center should be operational in May with certified instructors.
  • The pump test and servicing will be done this year. The hose test was done last year.
  • A new blinker was installed on Truck 6034.
  • Purchases of stop and slow signs and winch cover totaling $170.03
  • Assistant Chief Decker would like to build a roof ventilation system frame for training and braces for hydrant at an approximate cost of $250.00. A motion was made by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer to spend up to $300.00 for the ventilation frame for training and braces for hydrants. All in favor. So carried.

A motion was made by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh to pay the bills with the addition of $170.03. All in favor. So carried.

Commissioner Bauer submitted the fuel report showing 125.7 gallons used.

A motion was made to adjourn at 8:40 P.M. by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Miller.

Respectfully submitted,
Mary Helen Shannon, Secretary
Clermont Fire District

Town Board – February 2020

CLERMONT TOWN BOARD MINUTES
FEBRUARY 3, 2020

The Clermont Town Board held its regular meeting on Monday, February 3, 2020 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson, Councilwoman Lindsey Lusher-Shute and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve. Others present were Mary Howard, Park Committee chair, Amy Parrella, Mary Louise Kalin, Ellen Earle, Anthony Finta, Jennifer Phillips, Phyllis Heiko, Dianne O’Neal, Ray Tousey and two others.

Supervisor Staats opened the meeting with the salute to the flag. He introduced Mary Howard and Amy Parrella who presented the Park committees recommendations on the Hettling and Clermont Park development. These recommendations were compiled from the committee reports and the survey which was sent out to residents seeking input for the park. The plan for short term and long-term goals, phases of development and budgeting were discussed. The board will review the plan and any questions that they have will be discussed at future meetings. Ms. Parrella will be able to amend the plan as needed based on the changes/corrections from tonight’s meeting and future meetings. A sub-committee will be set up utilizing current members. Mary Howard will not be able to chair any longer. She thanked all the committee members and the town board. The board thanked Mary and all the committee members for their hard work.

MINUTES:

  • December 30, 2019 Year End – A motion was made by Councilman Desmond to accept the minutes, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. Councilman Desmond, aye; Councilwoman Brownson, aye, Councilman Gildersleeve, aye; Supervisor Staats, aye; Motion passed.
  • January 6, 2020 Organizational Meeting – A motion was made by Councilman Desmond to accept the minutes, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. Councilman Desmond, aye, Councilwoman Lusher-Shute, aye; Councilman Gildersleeve, aye; Supervisor Staats, aye. Councilwoman Brownson was absent. Passed.
  • January 6, 2020 Regular meeting – A motion was made by Councilman Desmond to accept the minutes, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. Councilman Desmond, aye, Councilwoman Lusher-Shute, aye; Councilman Gildersleeve, aye; Supervisor Staats, aye. Councilwoman Brownson was absent. Passed.
  • January 18, 2020 – Review of the books/policies – A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson to accept the minutes, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute. Councilman Desmond, aye; Councilwoman Brownson, aye, Councilwoman Lusher-Shute, aye; Supervisor Staats, aye. Passed.

TOWN CLERK’S REPORT:

The Town Clerk presented the Supervisor with a check for the General Fund in the amount of $1,167.89 and a check for Trust and Agency in the amount of $2,250.00.

CORRESPONDENCE:

  • Office of the Aging Elder Express Newsletter for January – March
  • Budget and Revenue Report for January, 2020
  • Website: Councilman Gildersleeve has been updating and checking links on the new website.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

  • Councilman Desmond said that Councilman Gildersleeve also was able to get a new laptop for the Assessor when her old one failed. He also thanked the Highway department.
  • Councilwoman Lusher-Shute brought info from Terrabilt on a receiver board that would be used in a kiosk for the park. The estimated cost would be $1400 plus shipping for each of the kiosks.

OLD BUSINESS:

  • The board met on January 18th to review the books of the Supervisor, Town Clerk, Tax Collector and Judges. Also, a review of the policies was made. The policies which will be updated are the Sexual Harassment and Workplace Violence. Supervisor Staats will review the County’s policies when they have been updated.
  • The Supervisor will be looking into a registration policy for special event vendors so that the town will know how many events are being held at any particular place. This could be added to the schedule of fees with a charge for each event.

NEW BUSINESS:

  • Our videographer, Fred Cartier, will no longer be videotaping our meetings. A discussion was held as to whether or not we will be videotaping the meetings in the future.

SUPERVISORS REPORT:

  • The County has appointed Kenneth Dow to replace Virginia Martin as Election Commissioner.
  • There was a County Highway worker injured recently while at work cutting trees.
  • He is very pleased with the plowing that has been done by the State on Route 9, 9G and Route 82, after recently taking it back from the County.

ABSTRACTS:

A motion was made by Councilman Desmond to approve Trust & Agency abstract #2, voucher #2 in the amount of $250.00, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So carried.

A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson to approve General prepaid abstract #2, vouchers #14-16 in the amount $288.24, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor. So carried.

A motion was made by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute to approve Highway abstract #2, vouchers #3 – 14 in the amount of $8,450.78, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.

A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve General abstract #2A, vouchers #17-43 in the amount of $7,450.42, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.

Public Comment:

Mary Howard suggested signs at venues to alert neighboring properties that there will be an event or of a subdivision or lot line adjustment.

The meeting was adjourned on a motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve at 9:10 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,
Mary Helen Shannon, RMC
Town Clerk

Fire Commissioners – Organizational Meeting – January 2020

CLERMONT FIRE COMMISSIONERS

ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING

JANUARY 20, 2020

The Clermont Fire Commissioners held their Organizational Meeting on Monday, January 20, 2020 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those present were Commissioner Susan Rifenburgh, Commissioner Laurence Saulpaugh, Commissioner Ronald Miller and Commissioner Raymond Bauer. Commissioner Joseph Scott was absent due to sickness. Also present was Treasurer Denise Fiore, Chief Lloyd Kukon, 1st Assistant Chief Evan Decker, Josh Williams, 2nd Lieutenant Samuel Williams and Robert Desmond.

Treasurer Denise Fiore opened the meeting with the salute to the flag.

Resolution #1 – 2020 Appointment of Chairman

The Treasurer asked for a motion to nominate the Chairperson. Commissioner Bauer nominated Susan Rifenburgh as Chairperson. Nomination seconded by Commissioner Miller. There were no further nominations. A motion was made by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Miller to close the nominations. All in favor. So carried. The Treasurer casts one ballot for Chairwoman Susan Rifenburgh.

Resolution #2 – 2020 Appointment of Vice – Chairman

Commissioner Miller made a motion nominating Commissioner Laurence Saulpaugh as Vice Chairman, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. There were no other nominations. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #3 – 2020 Appointment of Secretary

Commissioner Saulpaugh made a motion to appoint Mary Helen Shannon for Secretary at the budgeted salary of $2700.00, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #4 – 2020 Appointment of Treasurer

Commissioner Miller made a motion to appoint Denise Fiore for Treasurer at the budgeted salary of 2,700.00, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #5 – 2020 Appointment of Attorney

Commissioner Saulpaugh made a motion to appoint the Law Office of Freeman-Howard, Andy Howard, Esquire, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #6 – 2020 Appointment of Accountant

Commissioner Miller made a motion to appoint Brian Fitzgerald as Accountant, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #7 – 2020 Approval of Surety/Undertaking for Treasurer

A motion was made to approve the surety/undertaking for the Treasurer by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #8 – 2020 Appointment of Fire District Chief and Line Officers

  • Fire Chief – Lloyd Kukon – A motion was made to accept Lloyd Kukon as Fire Chief by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh. All in favor. So carried.
  • 1st Assistant Fire Chief – Evan Decker – A motion was made to accept Evan Decker as 1st Assistant Chief by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.
  • 2nd Assistant Fire Chief – Collin Brown – A motion was made to accept Collin Brown as 2nd Assistant Fire Chief by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.
  • Captain – Vacant
  • 1st Lieutenant – Joseph Scott – A motion was made to accept Joseph Scott as 1st Lieutenant by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.
  • 2nd Lieutenant – Samuel Williams – A motion was made to accept Samuel Williams as 2nd Lieutenant by Commissioner Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.
  • Fire Police Captain – Laurence Saulpaugh was appointed by the Chief to the position of Fire Police Captain.
  • Engineer – Cody Rockefeller was appointed as Engineer by the Chief.

A motion was made to accept all Officers as listed by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer.

Those present were sworn in by the Secretary, the remaining will be sworn in this week.

Resolution #9 – 2020 Official Newspaper

A motion was made by Commissioner Saulpaugh to retain the Register Star as the official District newspaper, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #10 – 2020 Official Bank

A motion was made by Commissioner Saulpaugh to name the Bank of Greene County as the official District Bank, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #11 – 2020 Authorizing Prepayment of Bills

A motion was made by Commissioner Saulpaugh that utilities, such as fuel oil, electric, phone and rent can be paid prior to authorization from the Commissioners, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #12 – 2020 Authorizing the Chief to spend up to $200.00 without prior authorization from the Board of Fire Commissioners.

A motion was made by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #13 – 2020 Signing of Contracts

A motion was made to empower the Chairperson or Vice Chairperson, in the Chairperson’s absence, to sign any contracts when contracts are approved by at least three members of the Board by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #14 – 2020 Designation the Location, Date and Time of the Regular monthly meeting of the Board of Commissioners

A motion was made by Commissioner Miller to hold the meetings on the third Monday of the month at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #15 – 2020 Designating Membership in Associations for District purposes.

A motion was made by Commissioner Miller designating the Association of Fire Districts, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #16 – 2020 Designation of Conventions, Meetings, Seminars, Training

A motion was made by Commissioner Miller to approve Commissioners Training for newly elected Commissioners, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #17 – 2020 Operating Committees

Buildings and Grounds – Commissioner Bauer, Commissioner Saulpaugh

Insurance – Commissioner Miller, Commissioner Scott

Laws and Policies – All Commissioners

Fire Equipment – Commissioner Bauer, Commissioner Saulpaugh

Legal – All Commissioners

LOSAP – Commissioner S. Rifenburgh, Commissioner Miller

A motion was made to accept the committee designations by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #18 – 2020 Approval of any Leases of Fire Station or Administrative Facilities

A motion was made to approve the amount of the $2,000.00 per month for the lease of Station #2 Truck bay by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner bauer. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #19 – 2020 Procurement and Purchasing Policy

A motion was made to reaffirm that there have been no changes to the policy by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #20 – 2020 Insurance Agency

A motion was made to approve Fingar Insurance as the insurance agent for the District by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Miller All in favor. So carried.

Resolution # 21 – 2020 Appointment of District Physician and or Physical Examination Policy

A motion was made to keep Columbia Memorial Hospital for physicals by Commissioner Miller , seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.

A motion was made to adjourn the Organizational Meeting by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Miller at 7:15 P.M. All in favor. So carried.

Public Comment:
None

Respectfully submitted,
Mary Helen Shannon
Fire District Secretary

Fire Commissioners – January 2020

CLERMONT FIRE COMMISSIONERS

JANUARY 20, 2020

The regular meeting was called to order following the Organizational Meeting by Chairwoman Susan Rifenburgh. Those in attendance were Commissioner Laurence Saulpaugh, Commissioner Ronald Miller, Commissioner Raymond Bauer. Commissioner Joseph Scott was absent due to illness. Others present were Treasurer Denise Fiore, Chief Lloyd Kukon, First Assistant Chief Evan Decker, 2nd Lieutenant Samuel Williams and Robert Desmond.

Chairwoman Rifenburgh opened and called to order the regular meeting.

MINUTES: Chairwoman Rifenburgh and Commissioner Miller noted a correction on page 3, Old Business, should be winch ‘cover’. A motion was made by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Miller to accept as corrected. All in favor. So carried.

TREASURER’S REPORT:

January 20, 2020 Fire Commissioners’ Treasurer’s Report

RE: December 2019

Total Amount of December 2019 Invoices Paid                                                  $ 6,993.98

RE: January 2020

Proposed January 2020 Invoices                                                               $ 2,152.00 + $140.00

Paid January 2020 Invoices                                                               2,593.39

         Total                                                               $ 4,745.39 + $140.00

Reconciliation of Accounts

The Bank of Greene County Balances to Date

Money Market Checking Balance*                                                               $ 80,497.50
*Includes interest paid on 12/31/19 in the amount of $10.62

Checking Balance                                                               3,691.41

Less Outstanding Checks                                                               2,488.04

Checking Balance to Date                                                               1,203.37

Money Market & Checking A/C Total                                                               $ 81,700.87

Capital Reserve Fund for Fire Equipment                                                               $ 29,728.61 (as of 12/31/19)

Interest 12/31/18 – 1/31/19                                                               $ 3.78

Interest 1/31/19 – 2/28/19                                                               3.42

Interest 2/28/19 – 3/31/19                                                               3.79

Interest 3/31/19 – 4/30/19                                                               3.66

Interest 4/30/19 – 5/31/19                                                               3.79

Interest 5/31/19 – 6/30/19                                                               3.67

         Interest 6/30/19 – 7/31/19                                                               4.63

Deposit 7/15/19 unexpended 2018 balance                                                               12,000.00

Interest 7/31/19 – 8/31/19                                                               5.32

Interest 8/31/19 – 9/30/19                                                               5.15

Interest 9/30/19 – 10/31/19                                                               5.32

Interest 10/31/19 – 11/30/19                                                               5.15

Interest 11/30/19 – 12/31/19                                                               5.32

         Total                                                               $ 41,781.61

Capital Reserve Fund for Constr. &Improvement:                                                               $ 33,666.86 (as of 12/31/19)

Interest 12/31/18 – 1/31/19                                                               $ 4.29

Interest 1/31/19 – 2/28/19                                                               3.87

Interest 2/28/19 – 3/31/19                                                               4.29

Interest 3/31/19 – 4/30/19                                                               4.15

Interest 4/30/19 – 5/31/19                                                               4.29

Interest 5/31/19 – 6/30/19                                                               4.15

Interest 6/30/19 – 7/31/19                                                               4.29

Interest 7/31/19 – 8/31/19                                                               4.29

Interest 8/31/19 – 9/30/19                                                               4.15

Interest 9/30/19 – 10/31/19                                                               4.29

Interest 10/31/19 – 11/30/19                                                               4.15

Interest 11/30/19 – 12/31/19                                                               4.29

         Total                                                               $ 33,717.36

Denise Fiore, Treasurer

January 20, 2020

A motion was made to accept the Treasurer’s report by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.

CORRESPONDENCE:

  • Letter from Columbia County Fire Coordinator office regarding Deputy Fire Coordinator for Battalion 2. A letter of interest and resume to be submitted by February 14, 2020.
  • Certificate of Liability from Colarusso & Sons for paving which has been done at Station #1.
  • RBC Wealth Management for December – $418,454.77.
  • VRS sent pictures of the new truck. Distributed three pictures to the Commissioners.
  • Distributed information on Physicals at CMH which is paid by the County. Also, physical forms to be used by firemen who prefer to use their own doctor, if they agree to pay for it.
  • Letter requesting donation for a not-for-profit Mac Boston 18 Truck. This will go to the department.
  • Cancer Benefit Program: Four firefighters have met the qualifications to be in program and have been reported to the insurance company, Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company. Because today is a federal holiday, she will call the County Treasurer tomorrow on which plan we do want to enroll in, the Basic plan or the Enhanced plan.

Buildings and Grounds: Commissioner Bauer and Saulpaugh

  • Commissioner Bauer was called by the fuel company regarding a low temperature at Station #1. It was determined that a new transformer was needed. The cost is about $200.00. They also moved the regulator so that the gauge could be seen.

Insurance: Commissioners Miller and Scott

Chairwoman Rifenburgh has called Fingar Insurance several times with questions but with no response on matters.

Fire Equipment: Commissioners Bauer and Saulpaugh

  • New Truck: Chairwoman Rifenburgh received pictures of the new truck from VRS and distributed several to the Commissioners. She has talked to Rodney and Nate and they don’t expect that we will see the truck until April. We did not opt to inspect the truck they will send a video of the truck.
  • VRS suggested that they may have someone to buy the old tanker truck for $20 to $25 thousand.
  • First Assistant Chief Evan Decker reported that truck #34 is having problems starting. Something is shorting out. Commissioner Bauer asked if it would help to put a master switch on it.
  • Truck checks: First Lieutenant Samuel Williams has made up a new listing for truck checks.

LOSAP: Commissioners S. Rifenburgh and Miller

The Commissioners have the records to work on the points for LOSAP for 2019.

LAWS AND POLICIES: All Commissioners

  • OSHA Training is scheduled for March 5th and March 12th at 7:00 P.M. at Station #2. Commissioners can attend for training on March 5th.
  • Physical forms were given to the Chief for CMH and for those who prefer to go to their own doctor.

LEGAL: All Commissioners
No Report

OLD BUSINESS:

  • The Chief and Officers looked at an additional thermal camera from NY Fire Equipment, LLC that compares to the camera that we were shown last month. It compares to them except that the price for the EO3 is less. The full kit includes thermal imager, charger station with AC and DC power cords and bracket, 2x standard lithium batteries, lanyard and manual for $4725.00. In the event it needs to be replaced, they will hold the price if it needs to be.

A motion was made to approve the purchase of the camera by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.

NEW BUSINESS:
None

CHIEFS REPORT:

CALLS: There were no calls in December. There were 54 days since the last call.

DRILLS: The drill was held on 12/23/19 before Christmas and there were not many members present.

  • The Chief also reported that the jaws were serviced by Garrison. A hose needs to be replaced and they have one they would sell us for $400.00 which are normally $1200.00 new.

A motion was made by Commissioner Saulpaugh to purchase the hose from Garrison for $400.00 more or less, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.

  • Commissioner Bauer reported on the fuel usage and it was 18.9 gallons used since last month. Discussed that the tank should be kept full and Main Care should be called when needed.
  • Assistant Chief Decker reported that he fixed the siren. He would like to assign masks to each person and he needs to order a small mask and large mask for Firefighters Jackie Decker and Josh Williams.
  • Company Drills: There are several drills coming up with Germantown.
  • The Chief and Assistant Chief will be going down to Dutchess County dispatch to discuss some minor dispatch problems.
  • Susan would like to see another hydrant put in this year and brace the one on Cemetery Road.
  • Received a private fire alarm document of a equipment related alarm malfunction. Copy will go to Town Clerk and Code Enforcement.

A motion was made to pay bills by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Miller with the addition of $140.00 to be paid to MES.

A motion was made to adjourn by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer at 8:45 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,
Mary Helen Shannon
Fire District Secretary

Town Board – Audit and Review Meeting – January 2020

CLERMONT TOWN BOARD MEETING
REVIEW OF POLICIES AND BOOKS
JANUARY 18, 2020

The Town Board met on Saturday, January 18, 2020 at 10:00 AM at the Town Hall to review the books of the Supervisor, Town Clerk, Tax Collector and both Town Justices. Those present were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Lindsey Lusher-Shute and Councilwoman Dawn Brownson. Councilman Kris Gildersleeve was unable to attend.

The books of Judge W. F. Banks and Judge Richard Christensen were reviewed and there were no questions. Court Clerk Lee Gallant was present also for the review.

The books of Town Tax Collector Joan Buser were reviewed with no discrepancies found. The records of Supervisor Staats were reviewed with no discrepancies and the books of the Town Clerk Mary Helen Shannon were also reviewed with no discrepancies.

The board discussed cyber security as Councilwoman Lusher-Shute attended training in Albany and heard that there was a summit scheduled which was sold out. She thought that this might be something worth finding out about.

Review of the Policies:

Fee Schedule – no changes

Lease Agreement with Canaan Fellowship – no changes

Pine Plains Veterinary and Round Top Animal Hospital – will verify rates.

Cash Management – update last date amended. Check with bank on internal control procedures.

Ethics Policy- no changes

Investment Policy – We do receive written contract from bank on collateral.

Highway Personnel Policy – no changes

Procurement Policy – No changes

Sexual Harassment – We will meet again on this policy once the County has updated theirs.

Workplace Violence – This will also be updated.

Emergency Preparedness Plan – Councilwoman Brownson will work on updating this policy.

Discussed a registration policy for special events being held with a fee per event allowing these to be better tracked.

The meeting adjourned at 12:30 P. M.

Respectfully submitted,
Mary Helen Shannon, RMC
Town Clerk

Planning Board – January 2020

CLERMONT PLANNING BOARD
January 8, 2020

The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, January 8, 2020 at 7:30 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Larry Saulpaugh, Nathan Hempel, Mary Howard, Ron Miller, Jennifer Phillips, Tom Jantzen and Clayton Andrus. Others present were George Schmitt, Engineer for the Town, Matthew Griesemer, Attorney for the Town.

After review of the December 2019 minutes, a motion was made by Mary Howard, seconded by Clayton Andrus, to accept the minutes. All in favor. So carried.

Santiago Suarez, 756 County Route 8, came before the Board proposing to develop a wedding venue in the existing barn.

Joyful Acres, 485 Lasher Road, Tax Map ID# 200.-1-1.200, Discussion was held for the hours of operation, frequency of food trucks, as well as the concerns of area neighbors which were submitted on a petition and in letters. The applicant will return to the February Planning Board meeting after attending the January ZBA meeting.

Paul Gates, Irish Hills, Tax Map ID# 201.-1-71.3, representing Irish Hills for a Lot Line Adjustment. Parcel A: #201.-1-80, Parcel B: #201.-1-80.11 and Parcel D: #201.-1-71.4. New boundary line adjustment map was reviewed. A motion to approve was made by Mary Howard, seconded by Ron Miller. All in favor. So carried.

A motion was made to adjourn by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Mary Howard. All in favor. So carried. The meeting adjourned at 8:50.

Respectfully submitted,
Desiree M. Webber, Secretary

Town Board – Organizational Meeting – January 2020

RESOLUTIONS
JANUARY 6, 2020
2020 ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING

RESOLUTION #01-2020

Time/Date for Regular Town Board Meetings

First Monday of every month at 7:00 P.M. In the case of Monday holidays or cancellations due to inclement weather, the meetings will be held on the Tuesday after the 1st Monday.

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #02-2020

Town Board Meeting Rules and Regulations

  1. Call to order
  2. Salute of Flag
  3. Acceptance of the minutes of the previous meeting
  4. Written communications to the Town Board:

Town Clerk Report

Mail Review

  1. Committee Reports and Updates
  2. Old Business
  3. New Business
  4. Supervisors Report
  5. Pay Abstracts
  6. Public Comment/Communication – Public comments will be taken at the end of the meeting at the discretion of the Supervisor, unless engaged during the meeting.
  7. Adjournment

Motion made to approve by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #03-2020

Naming Official Newspaper

Register Star

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #04-2020

Naming Bank for Deposits

1. Supervisor Bank of Greene County

2. Town Clerk Bank of Greene County

3. Tax Collector Bank of Greene County

4. Justice Christensen Bank of Greene County

5. Justice Banks Bank of Greene County

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #05-2020

Authorize Town Supervisor to appoint a bookkeeper.

  1. Pursuant to Section 29 of the Town Law
  2. Necessary for proper conduct of Town Affairs

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #06-2020

Authorize Town Supervisor to temporarily invest idle monies in accordance with the Town Investment policy (General Municipal Law, Section 11)

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.

All in favor – So carried.

RESOLUTION #07-2020

Appoint Official Dog Shelter

Pine Plains Veterinary Hospital Associated PC

Route 199

Pine Plains, New York 12567

(518) 398-7575 or 398-9494

Round Top Animal Hospital

71 Palatine Park Road, Suite 8

Germantown, New York 12526

(518) 537-7387

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.

All in favor – So carried.

RESOLUTION #08-2020

Appoint Official Dog Control Officer at the Budgeted Amount.

Desiree Webber

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.

All in favor. So carried.

RESOLUTION #09-2020

Authorize Town Justices to hire a Court Stenographer when necessary.

  1. For a proper record of testimony
  2. Within limit of 2020 budget

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute.

All in favor – So carried.

RESOLUTION #10-2020

Appoint Town Historian

Dawn Brownson

Motion made to approve by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.

All in favor – So carried.

RESOLUTION #11-2020

Appoint Code Enforcement Officer

Sam Harkins at Budgeted amount

Deputy Code Enforcement Officer at $100.00 per month, if needed.

(Appointed by Code Enforcement Officer)

Motion made to approve by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #12-2020

Appoint Town Attorney (for Town, Planning & Zoning Boards, Assessor)

(Within 2020 budget limits)

Freeman-Howard, P.C., Hudson, New York

Motion made to approve by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So carried.

RESOLUTION #13-2020

Appoint Town Engineer

CPL (Clark Patterson Lee)

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #14-2020

Designate Official Representatives to Association of Towns Annual Meeting

Supervisor Staats and Councilman Gildersleeve

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #15-2020

Establish .58 Cents Per Mile Rate for official Town Travel. (Per Federal Guidelines)

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #16-2020

Authorize Town Supervisor to sign 2020 State and Local Youth Contracts

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #17-2020

Appoint Registrar of Vital Statistics

Mary Helen Shannon

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve..

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #18-2020

Re-appoint Laurence Saulpaugh, Chair of the Planning Board

Re-appoint Clayton Andrus, Deputy Chairman.

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #19-2020

Re-appoint Desiree Webber, Planning Board Secretary

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #20-2020

Re-appoint James (Hank) Himelright, III, Chair of the Zoning Board of Appeals

Appoint Luke Kumburis – Deputy Chairman

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #21-2020

Appoint Desiree Webber Zoning Board Secretary

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #22-2020

Town Clerk’s appointments for Deputy Clerk and Deputy Registrar of Vital

Statistics – Tracey Gallant

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #23-2020

Town Highway Superintendent’s appointment for Deputy Highway

Superintendent – Adom Lawyer

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.

All in favor – So carried.

RESOLUTION #24-2020

Town Supervisor’s appointment for Deputy Supervisor

Robert Desmond for term of January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2020.

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute

All in favor – So carried.

RESOLUTION #25-2020

Town Supervisor’s appointment for Budget Officer

Raymond J. Staats

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #26-2020

Town Supervisor’s appointment for Town Bookkeeper

Brian Fitzgerald, CPA, PC

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #27-2020

Town Board Committees CHAIR CO-CHAIR

Auditing All Town Board Members

Building & Grounds Robert Desmond Raymond Staats

Cable TV, Internet Networking Kris Gildersleeve Lindsey Lusher-Shute

Grants Dawn Brownson Lindsey Lusher-Shute

Highway Robert Desmond Raymond Staats

Insurance All Town Board Members

Legal Raymond Staats

Planning, Zoning and

Board of Assessment Review Robert Desmond Lindsey Lusher-Shute

Recreation and Community Event Kris Gildersleeve Dawn Brownson

Village Green Committee Liaison to Town Board – Tami Connolly Easter Egg Hunt

Barbecue

Election Day Dinner

Holiday Program

School Liaison Kris Gildersleeve Lindsey Lusher-Shute

Historical Committee Dawn Brownson Lindsey Lusher-Shute

Parkland Use Robert Desmond Lindsey Lusher-Shute

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #28-2020

Appoint Kris Gildersleeve Webmaster for Clermont’s website

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute.

All in favor. So carried.

RESOLUTION #29-2020

Re-appoint representatives to the Columbia County Office for Aging for the term of

January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2020.

Clayton Andrus

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.

All in favor. So carried.

RESOLUTION #30-2020

Re-appoint members of the Board of Ethics for the term of

January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2020.

Mary Howard

Susan Rifenburgh

Mary Helen Shannon

Ray Tousey

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.

All in favor. So carried.

RESOLUTION #31-2020

Re-appoint James ‘Hank’ HImelright to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a five-year term –

January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2024.

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.

All in favor. So carried.

RESOLUTION #32-2020

Re-appoint Nathan Hempel to the Planning Board for a seven-year term,

January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2026.

Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor. So carried.

RESOLUTION #33-2020

Accept 2020 Salaries stated in the 2020 Budget, as follows:

  1. OFFICE SALARY PAY BASIS

Supervisor $ 5,500.00/yr Monthly Payroll

Councilpersons (4) $ 2,500.00/yr Monthly Payroll

Town Justice $ 5,600.00/yr Monthly Payroll

Town Justice $ 5,600.00/yr Monthly Payroll

Town Clerk $ 7,000.00/yr Monthly Payroll

  1. Tax Collector $ 4,600.00/yr Monthly Payroll

Highway Superintendent $51,543.00/yr Bi-Weekly Payroll

  1. Certified Assessor $15,270.00/yr Monthly Payroll

Court Clerk (1) $ 375.00/mo Monthly Payroll

Code Enforcement Officer $11,000.00/yr Monthly Payroll

Deputy Code Enforcement Officer$ 100.00/mo Monthly Payroll

Town Custodian $ 1,800.00/yr Monthly Payroll

Assessment Review Board Mtg. $ 100.00/day By Voucher

Additional time Minimum Wage By Voucher

Secretary – BAR Minimum Wage By Voucher

Zoning Chairperson $ 1,000.00/yr Yearly Payroll *

Planning Chairperson $ 1,000.00/yr Yearly Payroll *

Zoning Co-Chairperson $ 800.00/yr Yearly Payroll *

Planning Co-Chairperson $ 800.00/yr Yearly Payroll *

Zoning Members $ 800.00/yr Yearly Payroll *

Planning Members $ 800.00/yr Yearly Payroll *

Zoning Secretary $ 1,000.00/yr Yearly Payroll

Planning Secretary $ 1,000.00/yr Yearly Payroll

Trial Juror Minimum Wage By Voucher

Dog Control Officer $ 360.00/mo Monthly Payroll

*If any Planning or Zoning Board member is absent for more than two meetings, that members salary will be reduced by $100.00 for each additional absence.

Alternate members of the Planning and Zoning Board will be paid $50.00 per meeting when called upon to participate by the Chairperson.

HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT

Full Time $ 20.36/hr Bi-weekly Payroll

Part Time ( Summer ) $ 12.75/hr Bi-weekly Payroll

Part Time ( Winter ) $ 12.75/hr Bi-weekly Payroll

Deputy Highway Superintendent $1,000/yr ½ in June, ½ in December

Motion made to accept 2020 Salaries per Town Budget made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor. – So carried.

Resolution #34 -2020 – Town of Clermont Fee Schedule for Building Department Fees and Zoning and Planning Fees.

A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond to approve this resolution. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #35-2020 – Town of Clermont Official Undertaking of Municipal Officers

A motion was made to approve by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #36-2020– Agreement between the Clermont Town Board with the Canaan Fellowship for the use of the Clermont Community House for the period January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020 according to the terms and conditions of the lease.

A motion was made to approve this agreement made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #37-2020 – Agreement between the Clermont Town Board and Pine Plains Veterinary Associates to act as kennels for the town for the period January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020.

A motion was made to approve by Councilman Desmond seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So carried.

Resolution #38-2020 – Agreement between the Clermont Town Board and Round Top Animal Hospital to act as kennels for the town for the period January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020.

A motion was made to approve by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor. So carried.

These agreements will be reviewed with the other policies of the Town.

  1. Review Highway Personnel Policy (Note Changes if Any)
  1. Review Procurement Policy (Note Changes if Any)
  1. Review Fixed Assets
  1. Review Investment Policy (Note Changes if Any)
  1. Sexual Harassment Policy
  1. Code of Ethics
  1. Cash Management
  1. Emergency Preparedness Plan
  1. Review Road Bonds (If any)
  1. Review Other Bonds (If any)
  1. Review Workplace Violence Policy

Set time and date to review books and records of Town Clerk, Town Justices, Tax Collector and Supervisor by January 20th. Enter in February minutes.

A motion was made to adjourn the organizational meeting and enter into the regular meeting by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute.

Respectfully submitted,
Mary Helen Shannon, RMC
Town Clerk

Town Board – January 2020

CLERMONT TOWN BOARD MEETING

JANUARY 6, 2020

Supervisor Staats opened the regular meeting of the Town Board with a salute to the flag after the swearing in of our newest member of the Board, Lindsey Lusher-Shute. Evan Hempel chose not to seek re-election. He was present and Supervisor Staats thanked him for eight years of service to the residents of the Town.

Those present at the meeting were Supervisor Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Lindsey Lusher-Shute and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve. Councilwoman Brownson was absent. There were 17 others present, including Joe Zietz of Suncommon Solar and Shannon Baxevanis, New York Transco and Nicole Marron of Burn & McDonnell.

Supervisor Staats introduced Shannon Baxevanis and Nicole Marron to speak about the application to the NY Public Service Commission to construct, operate and maintain the NY Energy Solution project. This project will upgrade approximately 55 miles of transmission line and station work through eleven towns from Schodack to Pleasant Valley, including .7 miles through Clermont. They explained how various structures will be affected and answered board members and resident’s questions. There will be ongoing discussions as the project progresses.

Supervisor Staats asked Jeff Irish of Suncommon Solar for a proposal on a solar system for the garage and the town hall buildings. Joe Zietz, Solar Project advisor, came to speak to the board.

The system for the town hall is estimated to be nine panels with a cost of $11,127 before any incentives. For the garage, 24 panels would be required, and the cost would be $37,920 before any incentives. There would likely be no federal tax credits or tax savings because it is considered a commercial project.

MINUTES: A motion was made to accept the minutes of the December 3, 2019 meeting by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.

TOWN CLERK’S REPORT: The Town Clerk presented the Supervisor with a check for the General Fund in the amount of $2.801.13 and for Trust & Agency in the amount of $250.00.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

  • Councilman Desmond thanked the Highway Department for keeping the roads clear and safe during the recent storms. He also thanked Supervisor Staats for investing our funds wisely.
  • Supervisor Staats gave the board the preliminary budget and revenue report for December 31, 2019. The revenues will change when additional revenues are received and posted.

OLD BUSINESS:

  • SOLAR: Supervisor Staats said that we will be discussing and following up on the solar for the buildings.
  • HIGHLIGHTS OF 2019: Some highlights were replacing the roof on the storage area behind the town hall, painting the town hall, replacing the Community House roof on the west side an painting the west side of the building because of the damage done during the hail storm of May 2018. These repairs were paid by our insurance company.
  • We also were able to purchase a new truck for $50,000 from funds we have saved in the equipment fund. We currently have $160,000 in the equipment fund toward another truck when needed. He is hoping to put in $80,000 into our fund balance from this year’s budget. Supervisor Staats also reminded people to shop in Columbia County when possible because it does increase our portion of the sales tax.

NEW BUSINESS:

  • The Board members will meet on Saturday, January 18th at 10:00 A.M. at the Town Hall to review the books for 2019 of the Town Clerk, Tax Collector, Justices and Supervisor and address any other business which may come up.
  • PARK COMMITTEE: Mary Howard addressed the board regarding the park. There will be a meeting Sunday, January 12th at 6 PM and a presentation in February at the town board meeting. Supervisor Staats and the board thanked all the volunteers for their work. Mary is resigning from her position as the chair of the committee after February.

ABSTRACTS:

A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve General abstract #1, vouchers #1 – 13, in the amount of $19,444.70, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute. All in favor. So carried.

A motion was made by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute to approve Highway abstract #l, voucher #1 – 2 in the amount of $3,728.81 seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So carried.

A motion was made by Councilman Desmond to approve Trust & Agency abstract #1, voucher #1 in the amount of $196.50, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So carried.

A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher-Shute to adjourn at 8:45 P.M. All in favor.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon, RMC

Town Clerk