The Clermont Town Board held their regular monthly meeting on Monday, January 3rd, 2022 immediately following the organizational meeting at the Town Hall. Those present were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson and Councilwoman Lindsey Lusher Shute. Councilman Gildersleeve was not present. Additional members of the public were also present.
COMMUNICATIONS:
TOWN CLERK’S REPORT: The Town Clerk read the town clerk’s report for December and presented the Supervisor with a check for the General Fund for $1,497.52.
MAIL REVIEW: None
Web Committee: Question arose regarding Park committee minutes
WEB COMMITTEE: Mary Howard indicated she was aware of a Climate Smart Committee presentation, however there was nothing posted regarding this on the town website. The CSC does have someone that will be able to provide this to Councilman Gildersleeve for posting on the website.
Councilwoman Lusher Shute has noted that a Town Newsletter has not been done although it was started at the beginning of the Pandemic.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Councilman Desmond: Sander has been ordered and the Chipper is still pending
Councilwoman Lusher Shute: Town Hall Stream is on track-2 Cameras with microphones. Installation January 10th. Will be available for February meeting.
Minutes for Park committee should be posted on website. Additional discussion regarding website.
Councilwoman Brownson: CFA Grant was not awarded to Clermont as well as Iroquois Grant. She will be submitting grant application to Columbia Land Conservancy and Bank of Greene County.
OLD BUSINESS:
None to report
NEW BUSINESS:
Set date for review of books, January 15th at 10AM.
Advertising for open position of CEO for interviews Feb 5th starting at 10AM.-3 people are already interested
SUPERVISORS REPORT:
Columbia County Emergency Management was approved by the County Supervisors to be removed from under the Sheriff’s Department-This was not political as it is rumored to be. Discussion regarding this was initiated in June. Most other counties have this department outside of the Sheriff’s department.
ABSTRACTS:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond to approve General abstract #12, vouchers #285-313 in the amount of $18,616.83 to be paid. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made by Councilman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilman Desmond to approve Highway abstract #1, vouchers #1-11 in the amount of $24,445.69 to be paid. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson to approve General prepaid abstract #12A, voucher #1 in the amount of $3,784.52 to be paid. All in favor. So carried.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Resident Chris Nolan -Regarding Tax Bills and why he still has a bill when property has sold-He has been in touch with assessor. Books are closed in March, after BAR reports back to county the books are closed on July 1st.
Resident Chris Nolan-Regarding using Brine on roadways by highway department. This would be a much higher cost for the Town vs using Sand/Salt.
Mary Howard-Comprehensive Plan planning. Sent out survey for Planning/ZBA members to find interest. No State or Federal dollars to be used only general fund.
Meetings will be public when a committee is formed.
The park committee would like to do a joint mailing.
Motion to adjourn at 7:55PM by Councilman Desmond, Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So Carried
Respectfully submitted, Tracey J Gallant Town Clerk
RESOLUTIONS JANUARY 3, 2022 2022 ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING
RESOLUTION #01-2022
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 Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #02-2022
Town Board Meeting Rules and Regulations
Call to order
Salute of Flag
Acceptance of the minutes of the previous meeting
Written communications to the Town Board: Town Clerk Report Mail Review
Committee Reports and Updates
Old Business
New Business
Supervisors Report
Pay Abstracts
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.
Adjournment
Motion made to approve by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #03-2022
Naming Official Newspaper Register Star
Motion made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #04-2022
Naming Bank for Deposits
Supervisor: Bank of Greene County
Town Clerk: Bank of Greene County
Tax Collector: Bank of Greene County
Justice Christensen: Bank of Greene County
Justice Banks: Bank of Greene County
Motion made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #05-2022
Authorize Town Supervisor to appoint a bookkeeper.
Pursuant to Section 29 of the Town Law
Necessary for proper conduct of Town Affairs
Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #06-2022
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 Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor – So carried.
RESOLUTION #07-2022
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 Councilwoman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor – So carried.
RESOLUTION #08-2022
Appoint Official Dog Control Officer at the Budgeted Amount. Desiree Webber Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.
RESOLUTION #09-2022
Authorize Town Justices to hire a Court Stenographer when necessary.
For a proper record of testimony
Within limit of 2021 budget
Motion made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor – So carried.
RESOLUTION #10-2022
Appoint Town Historian Dawn Brownson
Motion made to approve by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor – So carried.
RESOLUTION #11-2022
Appoint Code Enforcement Officer John Fieser at $1000.00 per month Deputy Code Enforcement Officer at $100.00 per month, if needed. (Appointed by Code Enforcement Officer)
Motion made to approve by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #12-2022
Appoint Town Attorney (for Town, Planning & Zoning Boards, Assessor) (Within 2022 budget limits) Freeman-Howard, P.C., Hudson, New York
Motion made to approve by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.
RESOLUTION #13-2022
Appoint Town Engineer CPL (Clark Patterson Lee)
Motion made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #14-2022
Designate Official Representatives to Association of Towns Annual Meeting Supervisor Staats and Councilman Gildersleeve
Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #15-2022
Establish 58.5 Cents Per Mile Rate for official Town Travel. (Per Federal Guidelines)
Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #16-2022
Authorize Town Supervisor to sign 2022 State and Local Youth Contracts
Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #17-2022
Appoint Registrar of Vital Statistics Tracey Gallant
Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #18-2022
Re-appoint Laurence Saulpaugh, Chair of the Planning Board Re-appoint Clayton Andrus, Deputy Chairman.
Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond All in favor – So carried
Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #20-2022
Re-appoint James (Hank) Himelright, III, Chair of the Zoning Board of Appeals Appoint Luke Kumburis – Deputy Chairman
Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #21-2022
Appoint Desiree Webber Zoning Board Secretary
Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #22-2022
Town Clerk’s appointments for Deputy Clerk and Deputy Registrar of Vital Statistics – Mary Helen Shannon and Lee Gallant
Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #23-2022
Town Highway Superintendent’s appointment for Deputy Highway Superintendent – Adom Lawyer
Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor – So carried.
RESOLUTION #24-2022
Town Supervisor’s appointment for Deputy Supervisor Robert Desmond for term of January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022.
Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute All in favor – So carried.
RESOLUTION #25-2022
Town Supervisor’s appointment for Budget Officer Raymond J. Staats
Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor – So carried
RESOLUTION #26-2022
Town Supervisor’s appointment for Town Bookkeeper Brian Fitzgerald, CPA, PC
Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor – So carried
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 Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor. So carried.
RESOLUTION #28-2022 Appoint Kris Gildersleeve Webmaster for Clermont’s website
Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor. So carried.
RESOLUTION #29-2022
Re-appoint representatives to the Columbia County Office for Aging for the term of January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022. Clayton Andrus
Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.
RESOLUTION #30-2022
Re-appoint members of the Board of Ethics for the term of January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022. Mary Howard Susan Rifenburgh Tracey Gallant Ray Tousey
Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.
RESOLUTION #31-2022
Re-appoint Jennifer Phillips to the Planning Board for a seven-year term, January 1, 2022- December 31, 2028.
Re-appoint Don VanWagner to the Zoning Board for a five-year term, January 1, 2022- December 31, 2026.
Re-appoint John Gall as the Chair of the Board of Assessment Review for a seven-year term, January 1, 2022- December 31, 2026.
Motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.
RESOLUTION #32-2022
Accept 2021 Salaries stated in the 2021 Budget, as follows:
OFFICE
SALARY
PAY BASIS
Supervisor
$ 5,600.00/yr
Monthly Payroll
Councilpersons (4)
$ 2,600.00/yr
Monthly Payroll
Town Justice
$ 5,700.00/yr
Monthly Payroll
Town Justice
$ 5,700.00/yr
Monthly Payroll
Town Clerk
$ 7,100.00/yr
Monthly Payroll
Deputy Town Clerk
$ 15.00 hr.
By Voucher
Tax Collector
$ 4,700.00/yr
Monthly Payroll
Highway Superintendent
$52,316.00/yr
Bi-weekly Payroll
Certified Assessor
$15,575.00/yr
Monthly Payroll
Court Clerk (1)
$ 383.33/mo
Monthly Payroll
Code Enforcement Officer
$12,000.00/yr
Monthly Payroll
Deputy Code Enforcement Officer
$ 100.00/mo
Monthly Payroll
Town Custodian
$ 1,900.00/yr
Monthly Payroll
Assessment Review Board Mtg. Additional time
$ 100.00/day $ 10.00 Hr.
By Voucher 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
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT
Full Time
$ 22.00/hr
Bi-weekly Payroll
Part Time ( Summer )
Minimum Wage
Bi-weekly Payroll
Part Time ( Winter )
Minimum Wage
Bi-weekly Payroll
Deputy Highway Superintendent
$1,000/yr
½ in June, ½ in December
*If any Planning or Zoning Board member is absent for more than two meetings, that member’s 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.
Motion made to accept 2022 Salaries per Town Budget made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor. So carried.
Resolution #33 -2022 – Town of Clermont Fee Schedule for Building Department Fees and Zoning and Planning Fees.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilman Desmond to approve this resolution. All in favor. So carried.
Resolution #34-2022 – Town of Clermont Official Undertaking of Municipal Officers
A motion was made to approve by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor. So carried.
Resolution #35-2022 – Agreement between the Clermont Town Board with the Canaan Fellowship for the use of the Clermont Community House for the period January 1, 2022 and December 31, 2022 according to the terms and conditions of the lease.
A motion was made to approve this agreement made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor. So carried.
Resolution #36-2022 – Agreement between the Clermont Town Board and Pine Plains Veterinary Associates to act as kennels for the town for the period January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.
A motion was made to approve by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor. So carried.
Resolution #37-2022 – Agreement between the Clermont Town Board and Round Top Animal Hospital to act as kennels for the town for the period January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.
A motion was made to approve by by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.
These agreements will be reviewed with the other policies of the Town.
Review Highway Personnel Policy (Note Changes if Any)
Review Procurement Policy (Note Changes if Any)
Review Fixed Assets
Review Investment Policy (Note Changes if Any)
Sexual Harassment Policy
Code of Ethics
Cash Management
Emergency Preparedness Plan
Review Road Bonds (If any)
Review Other Bonds (If any)
Review Workplace Violence Policy
A motion was made to set time and date to review books and records of Town Clerk, Town Justices, Tax Collector and Supervisor on January 15th at 10:00 A.M. by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.
A motion was made to adjourn the organizational meeting and enter into the regular meeting by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond.
Respectfully submitted, Tracey J Gallant Town Clerk
The Clermont Town Board held the Year-End meeting on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at 7:00 P.M. Those in attendance were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson, Councilwoman Lindsey Lusher Shute and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve.
Supervisor Staats opened the meeting with the salute to the flag
INSURANCE:
Presentation for 2022 Insurance by Peter and Nina from Fingar Insurance. The new policy period to be covered is 12/31/21 to 12/30/22. The liability coverages were reviewed for property, vehicles, injury, equipment and bonds Discussion followed regarding specifics needs. Opted for the policy not including cyber protection or law enforcement. Total Cost $15,582.20 will be authorized for payment at January Meeting.
MINUTES:
The minutes of the December General meeting were previously distributed to the board Motion to accept by Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor. So Carried.
COMMUNICATIONS:
None
WEB COMMITTEE:
None
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Councilman Desmond-Sander needed for pickup. Quotes reviewed as provided by highway superintendent. Motion to approve at a cost of $2600.00 from Toads, LLC. made by Councilman Desmond, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor. So Carried.
The Highway department continues to work with other local highway departments. Livingston assisted with mowing some of our road. Councilman Desmond reported additional highway equipment being repaired.
Supervisor Staats reported that he will be meeting with the new Germantown Supervisor and Highway superintendent to discuss the inter municipality agreement and has every reason to believe that we will continue to work with our neighboring towns as in the past. Update after the first of the year.
Councilman Lusher Shute no update regarding Kiosks
Councilwoman Lusher Shute and Councilman Gildersleeve reported on the progress for Video recording of meetings by Town Hall Streams. January 10th is first availability for installation. Cost is $285.00 per month. Month to Month contract. Motion made to accept by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So Carried.
Councilman Gildersleeve reports he has sent out the antivirus on some town equipment and emailed the remainder out.
Councilwoman Brownson reports that she has received notification that our grants were not approved for Iroquois Pipeline Community (Kiosks) or the CFA from the Office of Parks and Recreation Historic Preservation (Pavilion). She does report she has 2 additional applications to work on. 1) Columbia Land Conservancy due at end of February for a $500 dollar Grant. 2) Bank of Greene County due January 15th for possible Seed and Poppies. She will reach out to representative from Ray Michael to look at the tiles on the playground.
Park committee to reach out for additional volunteers for committee and possible recruit for Comprehensive Plan team.
Jen Phillips will be stepping down from Park committee as she wants to pursue and be part of the Comprehensive Plan team.
ADDITION TO CLERK REPORT: Regarding the passing of Marion Gurnee and the use of St. Luke’s Church and use of the Community House. Family has asked that donations in memory of her be made to the Community house.
OLD BUSINESS:
John Fieser appointed interim CEO for as long as we need him. He has cleaned up some of the backlog. He is not interested in receiving certification and continuing in the position. Possible date for interviews for permanent appointment to be set for Early February. To be discussed at organization meeting in January. Will need a Job Description.
NEW BUSINESS:
Supervisor Staats introduced the following Budget Amendments and Transfers to balance the accounts:
General Budget Amendment #1 of 2021- to balance certain accounts in the General Fund in the amount of $2,276.00. Motion made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So carried.
General Budget Amendment #2 of 2021 to balance additional accounts in the General Fund in the amount of $30.270.00. Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So carried.
Highway Budget Amendment #1 of 2021 to balance accounts in the Highway Fund in the amount of $41,275.00. Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So carried.
Shared Services Agreement. Motion to accept made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in Favor. So Carried
ABSTRACTS:
A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson to approve Highway abstract #12A, vouchers #113-122 in the amount of $6389.55. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve Prepaid General abstract #12B, voucher #314-316 in the amount of $270.01. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson to approve General abstract #12C, vouchers #317-327 in the amount of $3009.96. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond to approve Highway abstract #13, vouchers #106-109 in the amount of $4132.85. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve Trust and Agency abstract #8, voucher #30-31 in the amount of $1834.00. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made to adjourn by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve at 8:05 P.M. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made to re-open the meeting at 8:12 PM for unattended business.
A motion was made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson to transfer $50,000.00 to Highway Capital Reserve 9950.9 All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made to adjourn by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve at 8:15 P.M. All in favor. So carried.
Clermont Zoning Board of Appeals 1795 Route 9 Germantown, New York 12526
December 15, 2021
The Clermont ZBA held its regular meeting on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at 7:30 P.M. at the Town Hall. The meeting opened at 7:30pm. The meeting started with a salute to the flag. Members attending were Hank Himelright, Luke Kumburis, Don Van Wagner, Ben Peacock, and Cheryl Werner.
Hank Himelright asked if anyone had any additions, corrections or omissions to the minutes of the last meeting, October 27, 2021. A motion to approve the October 2021 minutes with a correction, was made by Ben Peacock, seconded by Cheryl Werner. All in favor. So carried.
Motion was made by Don Van Wagner, seconded by Luke Kumburis, to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing for ELP Roe Jan Solar LLC. All in favor. So carried.
ELP Roe Jan Solar LLC, 109 Mill Road, 180.-2-5.111, came before the Board, presenting the proposed project for solar panels to be constructed at 109 Mill Road. There were no changes to the proposed project. The ZBA members conducted a site visit. There were no comments or questions from the public. Motion was made by Don Van Wagner, seconded by Ben Peacock, to close the Public Hearing and return to the regular meeting. All in favor. So carried.
Motion was made by Luke Kumburis, seconded by Ben Peacock, for approval of the solar project at 109 Mill Road. All in favor. So carried.
With no other business, motion was made by Don Van Wagner, seconded by Ben Peacock, to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 8:05pm
Respectfully submitted, Desiree M Webber Secretary
The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at 7:30pm at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Larry Saulpaugh, Clayton Andrus, Mary Howard, Jennifer Phillips, Ron Miller, Tom Jantzen, and Nathan Hempel. Others present were George Schmitt, Engineer for the Town and Matthew Griesemer, Attorney for the Town.
After review of the November 10, 2021 minutes, a motion was made by Mary Howard, seconded by Tom Jantzen, to approve the minutes. All in favor. So carried.
Mary Howard spoke regarding the establishment of a Comprehensive Committee for the Town of Clermont. She presented the goals of the proposed Committee, including requesting Planning Board members to consider volunteering for the Committee.
With no further business, a motion was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Mary Howard, to adjourn. All in favor. So carried. The meeting adjourned at 7:55pm.
Respectfully submitted, Desiree M. Webber, Secretary
The Clermont Town Board held their regular monthly meeting on Monday December 6th, 2021 at 7PM at the Town Hall. Those present were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilman Kris Gildersleeve, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson and Councilwoman Lindsey Lusher Shute. Additional members of the public were also present.
Supervisor Staats asked to open the meeting with a moment of Silence for the sudden and unexpected passing of our Code Enforcement Officer, Sam Harkins.
(Page 2 intentionally left blank in Memory of Samuel Harkins)
Supervisor Staats opened the regular meeting with the salute to the flag.
CLIMATE SMART PRESENTATION:
Presented list of Taskforce Members
Updated Board on activities of Taskforce
Looking for additional members
Request for Appointment of CSC Coordinator-David Szlasa for two-year term retroactively to January 15th, 2021 to January, 2023. Motion to nominate by Lindsey Lusher Shute, Seconded by Dawn Brownson. All in Favor. So Carried.
Presented Board with information for Car Charging Station options (3). Our park has a special situation in regards to running electric.
Red Hook and Tivoli Supervisors would be available for questions/concerns. Supervisor Staats will contact Germantown regarding theirs. Supervisor Staats would like a presentation from this company and a preparation of costs for a Lease option. Request a presentation at the February Meeting.
MINUTES:
The minutes of the November meeting were previously distributed to the board and accepted as edited. Motion to accept edited version by Dawn Brownson, Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So Carried. October minutes were updated after a discrepancy was noted in regards to the name of one speaker. Motion by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So Carried.
COMMUNICATIONS:
TOWN CLERK’S REPORT: The Town Clerk read the town clerk’s report for November and presented the Supervisor with a check for the General Fund for $756.53 and for Trust and Agency in the amount of $500.00.
MAIL REVIEW: The Town Clerk reported correspondences distributed to the board members prior to the meeting.
Department of Transportation: Speed Limit Study for Hill and Dale Road and Buckwheat Bridge Road. DOT response is that neither road requires a reduction in speed limit. Supervisor Staats will contact the County to see if we have an opportunity to appeal.
WEB COMMITTEE: Mary Howard indicated she was aware of a Climate Smart Committee presentation, however there was nothing posted regarding this on the town website. The CSC does have someone that will be able to provide this to Councilman Gildersleeve for posting on the website.
Councilwoman Lusher Shute has noted that a Town Newsletter has not been done although it was started at the beginning of the Pandemic.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Councilman Desmond spoke of Sam Harkins and how he will be missed by the Town of Clermont as well as numerous other towns.
The Highway department continues to work with other local highway departments. Livingston assisted with mowing some of our road. Councilman Desmond reported additional highway equipment being repaired.
Supervisor Staats reported that he will be meeting with the new Germantown Supervisor and Highway superintendent to discuss the inter municipality agreement and has every reason to believe that we will continue to work with our neighboring towns as in the past. Update after the first of the year.
Councilwoman Lusher Shute reported on the Park Committee.
Port a potty enclosure-After trying to work with multiple contractors unsuccessfully. The Park committee approached the highway department for assistance in creating the enclosures. Ellen has compiled a list of materials needed and costs. The highway department would install the enclosure in the spring. The supplies would need to be ordered now because they are currently backorders for supply chain issues. Additional costs would be for gravel and fastening materials. The estimate indicates 50 Tons. Supervisor Staats indicated that 50 Tons seems excessive. Approved for ordering. Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor. So Carried.
Kiosk (2)- Two estimates received. Timber homes Vermont-it is a kit that gets shipped and the town assembles and installs. $8300.00 total. Justin- Monkey and the Mule provided estimate for $2500 per Kiosk including materials and installation. Committee preference would most likely be with Monkey and the Mule. Motion made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute for approval of 2 (two) Kiosks from Justin-Monkey and the Mule for total of $5000. Motion Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor. So Carried.
MOU-Presented by Dianne O’Neal This agreement would enable us to access more local funding sources as a 501c3. The agreement was discussed in detail. Agreement was provided to Town Attorney with a small amendment. Motion to approve signing of MOU by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in Favor. So Carried.
Councilman Gildersleeve reports he has anti-virus for all town computers. Councilman Gildersleeve would like to attend some of the 2022 training and will report at the January meeting
Councilwoman Brownson has tried unsuccessfully to reach out to the person supplying the purple heart signs and will try to reach out to a new vendor. Councilwoman Brownson has reached out to the regional branch director of the Office of Parks and Recreation to check on the status of our grant application. Applications are in the final stages of review however no date has been set on announcements. The bike racks are in. The Iroquois grant should be in on December 15th which was for more money than what was spent on the Kiosks. Swing Tiles at the park. There are pieces that need to be replaced as they do not appear to be repairable. We do have replacement tiles. Supervisor Staats does not believe that the warranty has been voided, in the past the representative did view and confirm the warranty was still in place. We are in need of replacing blocks-We will need to find out how.
OLD BUSINESS:
Supervisor Staats has requested that Andy Howard draft and send a letter that we want to remain an interested party in the Red Wing Mining and we want to be included in all correspondences. Milan is keeping on top of this however we will continue to follow their lead and feel Milan will remain the Lead agency.
Park Donations: Thanked Several individuals for their donations.
CPL Associates $500.00 Jennifer Phillips $250.00 Amy Parrella $250.00 Staats Contracting $1500.00 Fingar Insurance $1200.00 Louise Kalin $250.00 Dianne O’Neal $250.00 Alexander Abel $1000.00 Total $5200.00 Plus, Matching Donation from Mary Howard $5000.00
NEW BUSINESS:
Video recordings-Would be Live streaming as well as videos. Future versions could potentially have audience comment. The package includes 2 cameras, one towards board one covering audiences. 2-3 Microphones. He will not install-We would need a contractor to install. $250.00 base price per month, additional camera $35.00 per month. Money is placed in the budget. We will need specifics regarding installation. The town would need to set up the dates of streaming. Councilwoman Lusher Shute will contact and firm up the needs with the company. Month to Month contract, company would own equipment and does the maintenance. Board members are concerned with the change in installation included vs. not included. Both Councilman Gildersleeve and Councilwoman Lusher Shute will reach out to their contacts for more information. Further discussion over next Board meetings.
Park Rules and Regulations-Committee has reviewed and made small alterations. Park committee agrees a permit is not required. It will only require a copy of approved application. Motion to approve made by Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor. So Carried. Posting should be done on website.
Pilot-Solar Project-Comments/Suggestions. Noted template not completely updated (Name-Address) and spelling error noted. Supervisor Staats will have this updated. Motion to Approve made by Councilman Desmond, Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor. So Carried.
Update on Mortgage Tax -Check received $66,812.95. Much higher than anticipated, budgeted a total of $40,000.00.
Comprehensive Plan-Supervisor Staats has asked Mary Howard to help initiate the plan. She has agreed to get us in the correct direction. She would like to start with a request for qualifications to assemble a set of planners. Original comprehensive plan initiated in Early 70’s and updated in 2006. There have been so many changes since then. Mary Howard will plan and submit number of volunteers needed at January Board meeting.
SUPERVISORS REPORT:
Decrease in Budget for the county will be voted on at next county level meeting.
Sales Tax-County up several Million Dollars, we are up close to $100,000.
Councilwoman Brownson questioned the plan to move Emergency Management out of the Sheriff’s office. Supervisor Staats supports the move as most other counties have them separated. Although the timing looks suspicious it is the right thing to do.
Ray Jurkowski has left Morris Assoc. and will be the Public Works commissioner of Columbia County starting possible January 1st.
ABSTRACTS:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond to approve General abstract #12, vouchers #285-313 in the amount of $21,896.55 to be paid. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made by Councilman Lusher Shute, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve Highway abstract #12, vouchers #102-112 in the amount of $24,445.69 to be paid. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson to approve General prepaid abstract #12A, vouchers #278-284 in the amount of $596.63 to be paid. All in favor. So carried.
PUBLIC COMMENT: None
Year End meeting to be held on Tuesday, December 28th 7PM, Insurance provider will also be present.
Motion for Board to adjourn to Executive Session at 9:13PM by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in Favor. So Carried.
Board returned from Executive Session at 9:50PM motion to adjourn by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.
Respectfully submitted, Tracey J Gallant Town Clerk
The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, November 10, 2021 at 7:30 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Larry Saulpaugh, Clayton Andrus, Mary Howard, Jennifer Phillips, Ron Miller, Tom Jantzen, and Nathan Hempel. Others present were George Schmitt, Engineer for the Town and Daniel Renehan, Attorney for the Town.
After review of the October 13, 2021 minutes, a motion was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Tom Jantzen, to accept the minutes with corrections. All in favor. So carried.
Motion was made by Jennifer Philips, seconded by Tom Jantzen, to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing for ELP Roe Jan Solar LLC. All in favor. So carried.
Fox Hollow Subdivision, 360 Cedar Hill Road,191.-1-32.111, represented by Andy Diddio of Taconic Engineering, presented an update of the site map with roadway locations and road signage, including dead end signs. A draft of the Home Owners Association has been submitted to the Town Attorney for review. Mary Howard read Part 2 of SEQRA with motion made by Clayton Andrus, seconded by Tom Jantzen for a negative declaration. All in favor So carried. The bond amount has been set for the roadway construction at the amount of $472,000. Jennifer Phillips addressed the need for downward lighting to reduce sky glow and the roadway would be constructed to the Town’s specifications with the final paving done at the completion of the project. The Resolution was presented by Mary Howard, seconded by Jennifer Phillips, for approval of the project. All in favor. So carried.
Scott Winters came before the Board seeking information on the addition of an event venue to his property located at 1109 County Route 8. The venue site would be located between County Routes 6 & 8. There would be 24 events per year during the Spring, Summer, and Fall each year. No buildings would be constructed, everything would be brought in for each event and removed rolling the event. A Special Use permit would be needed from the ZBA and site plan approval would be needed from the Planning Board.
With no further business, a motion was made by Ron Miller, seconded by Tom Jantzen, to adjourn. All in favor. So carried. The meeting adjourned at 8:40PM.
Respectfully submitted, Desiree M. Webber, Secretary
