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CLERMONT TOWN BOARD MINUTES

APRIL 9, 2018

The Clermont Town Board held its regular meeting on Monday, April 9, 2018 at 7:00 PM at the Town Hall.  Those in attendance were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson, Councilman Evan Hempel and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve.  There were six residents present and the Town Engineer George Schmitt of Morris Associates.

Supervisor Staats opened the meeting with the salute to the flag.

MINUTES: A motion was made to accept the March minutes by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.

TOWN CLERKS REPORT: The Town Clerk read the Clerk’s report for March and presented the Supervisor a check in the amount of $1,587.50 for the General fund.

CORRESPONDENCE:

• Web Committee – No comments or questions.
• Received the Dog Control Officer Inspection Report from the Department of Agriculture & Markets with a Satisfactory report.
• The Supervisor provided the budget and revenue report for the period ending 3/31/18.

NOICE ORDINANCE: There was discussion on further changes to the proposed Noise Ordinance with the public, the Town Board and Town Engineer George Schmitt.  The most questions came on the hours for daytime noise and the measured sound levels for daytime and correcting the levels for nighttime.  Penalties and violations were also discussed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

• The public hearing on the Noise Ordinance will be set next month for June if the changes are all complete. Copies will be provided when the changes are complete.
• The Code Enforcement Officer will be attending training this week to get his 24 hours for this year. The Town will pay for his training.
• The Web committee met again this month to discuss the website.
• Dawn thanked the Village Green Committee for the Easter Egg Hunt.  There was still snow on the ground but the attendance was good, maybe not as many as last year, but still a good turnout.  

OLD BUSINESS:

• PARK COMMITTEE – The following appointments were made by the Supervisor:  Councilman Robert Desmond as Chairman, Mary Howard, Louise Kalin, Amy Perella, Phyllis Heiko, Sara Takacs and Ellen Earle. Supervisor Staats also has a few people in mind that are professionals in landscape planning.  Councilman Desmond said the first meeting will be sometime in May and there will be discussion on the plans for the park and a walk through. Ripley Hathaway asked about the money for the project.  Supervisor Staats said that there is no line in the budget as of yet.

NEW BUSINESS:

There was no new business to report.

SUPERVISORS REPORT:

• MORTGAGE TAX: Will be receiving a check for approximately $26,000.00 for the first half of the year.
• FRANCHISE FEES:  Received the payment from Hilltop Communications in the amount of $1,250 which is less than in previously years.
• Thanked the Village Green volunteers for helping with the Easter Egg Hunt.
• AMTRAK FENCING: Supervisor Staats has been asked for his support against the idea of Amtrak fencing off access to the river from Rhinebeck to Stuyvesant. He will support this. There will be a rally at the boat launch in Germantown upcoming. A motion was made to support access to the river to those who have it now by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.
• Discussed the Rip Van Winkle bridge access round-about that is planned by the state.

ABSTRACTS:

A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson to approve Trust & Agency abstract #3, voucher #6, in the amount of $151.50, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made by Councilman Desmond to approve Highway abstract #4, vouchers #25 – 40 in the amount of $13,013.48, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made by Councilman Hempel to approve Prepaid General abstract #4, vouchers #89-91 in the amount of $330.76, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve General abstract #4A, vouchers #92-119 in the amount of $14,640.70, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT: Anthony Miserendino submitted a comparison of decibel levels across day and night times. He agrees with Phyllis that he appreciates the Boards working on the noise ordinance.

A motion was made to adjourn at 8:20 PM by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor. So carried

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon, RMC

Town Clerk

Clermont Zoning Board of Appeals

1795 Route 9
Germantown, New York 12526

March 28, 2018

The meeting opened at 7:30 pm. The meeting started with a salute to the flag. Members attending: Hank Himelright, Pete Cichetti, John Rusconi, Luke Kumburis, Don Van Wagner and Phyllis Heiko.

Hank Himelright asked if anyone had any additions, corrections or omissions to the minutes of the last meeting. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Don Van Wagner, seconded by Luke Kumburis.  All in favor.  So carried.

Old Business ~ The February vote regarding the Windhorse Farm application was invalid due to not having a quorum.  Organic screening for the East border, the Coffey property, and County Route 6, as well as the noise concern, has been addressed by the applicant.

Motion to vote was made by Hank Himelright, seconded by John Rusconi.

Role call vote:  Don Van Wagner, yes.  Luke Kumburis, yes.  John Rusconi, yes.  Hank Himelright, yes.  Pete Cichetti recused himself.  So carried.

New Business ~ Hank Himelright received a call from Chris Gilbert regarding a previous application he had submitted.  A new application will be needed based on the time lapse since the previous application.

Motion to adjourn was made by Luke Kumburis, seconded by John Rusoni.  All in favor.  So carried.  The meeting closed at 8:00pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary

CLERMONT FIRE COMMISSIONERS

MARCH 19, 2018

The Clermont Fire Commissioners held their regular meeting on Monday, March 19, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall.  Those present were Commissioner Susan Rifenburgh, Commissioner Ronald Rifenburgh, Commissioner Ronald Miller, Commissioner Raymond Bauer and Commissioner Laurence Saulpaugh.

Also present were Gregory Fingar of Fingar Insurance, Treasurer Denise Fiore and Chief Lloyd Kukon.

The meeting was opened by Chairwoman Rifenburgh with the salute to the flag

Chairwoman Rifenburgh introduced Greg Fingar of Fingar Insurance to go over the policy for the Fire District and Fire Company.  Utica National Fire Insurance covers most of the fire companies in New York. It was suggested and there was discussion on the value of vehicles and their replacement values.

MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh to reduce the replacement cost on the 1988 International from $224,792 to $24,000 and increase the replacement cost on the 2007 Ferrara from $383,933 to $583,933.00 seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh.

MINUTES: A motion was made by Commissioner Miller to accept the minutes, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor.  So carried.

TREASURERS REPORT:

Total amount of February invoices paid                                            $16,868.19

$137.82 Columbia Tractor on hold; $125 AFDNY paid (Bauer training)

Proposed March invoices                                                                    $  4,823.38

Paid March invoices                                                                            $  2,218.69

Total                                                                                                    $  7,042.07

RECONCILIATION OF ACCOUNTS

The Bank of Greene County Balances

            Money Market Checking Balance                                          $195,462.12

            Checking Balance                                                                   $    4,659.54

            Plus Deposit                                                                            $    1,761.00

            Less Outstanding Checks                                                       $    4,713.71

            Checking Balance to Date                                                      $    1,706.83

            Money Market & Checking Account Total                            $197,168.95

CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR FIRE EQUIPMENT                 $29,712.26

CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR CONTRUCTION

            AND IMPROVEMENTS                                                      $33,648.33

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

CORRESPONDENCE:

• RBC Wealth Management account statement for February $375,879.32
• Received physical for Evan Decker
• Email from Director of Real Property Suzette Booy to Assessor Cheryl Kaszluga regarding 5 parcels that were in dispute.  The parcels on Massello Road in Clermont were being taxed in the Clermont Fire District and should be Livingston Fire District because they cover that area.
• Received list of Board of Fire Commissioners in the Livingston Fire District.
• Received a letter to return to duty for Sam Williams

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS: Commissioners Bauer and Saulpaugh

• Commissioner Saulpaugh asked if propane tank has been checked for the generator.
• Commissioner Bauer asked if the roof at Station #1 was going to get painted this year. He will get prices from several vendors.

INSURANCE: Commissioner R.Rifenburgh and Miller

• No report

FIRE EQUIPMENT: Commissioner Bauer and Saulpaugh

• No report

LOSAP: All Commissioners

• Commissioner R. Rifenburgh reported that the reports for LOSAP were posted at Station #2 and will be mailed this week.

LAWS AND POLICIES: All Commissioners

• There was discussion as to whether or not we need a social media policy.  Chairwoman Rifenburgh will check into this.

LEGAL: All Commissioners

• No report

OLD BUSINESS:

• There was discussion last month that there was no television or internet access at Station #1. A motion was made by Commissioner Bauer to purchase a 42-inch television for Station #1, seconded by Commissioner Miller.  All in favor.  So carried. Commissioner R Rifenburgh will take care of this.
• Commissioner Bauer went to the commissioners training. He reported on some of the issues that were discussed. The Procurement Policy should be reviewed every year at the organizational meeting.  The Treasurers bond should equal the amount of money in the bank. A copy of the Code of Ethics should be posted at owned stations or houses. Copies of the Code of Ethics will be provided to Chief Kukon for posting at the firehouses.
• OSHA CLASSES: The classes have been completed for this year. There are two who have not completed the classes.  If they have received training somewhere else from a fire approved class they need to let us know.  They will be inactive until they show us otherwise.  Registered letters will be sent to Fred Gooderham and James Connolly. Commissioner R. Rifenburgh will also call them.
• GEAR: Discussed purchasing new gear for members and redistributing to others. A list was provided of those that need gear but it was unclear as to what the reasons were, don’t have any or no longer fit, etc. The Chief will double check the reasons they are on the list.
• FACE MASKS: There are two masks on the truck and six members have new masks.  We would need two new masks, two amplifiers and two new bags. Commissioner R. Rifenburgh asked for the Chief to get a price for masks, amplifiers and bags.
• The Secretary reported that the signed copy of the contract with Milan Volunteer Fire District has not been received.  The payment is due to be paid by April 1^st.  A motion was made to pay the invoice by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Miller.  All in favor.  So carried.

NEW BUSINESS:

• Minitor pagers were sold and a check was received for $100.00  

CHIEFS REPORT:

There were five calls for February.

2/4/18 – Alarm activation – 651 County Route 6

2/8/18 – AAPI Rollover – Route 9 north of County Route 8

2/18/18 – AAPI/PD – Route 9G/County Line

2/25/18 – Alarm Activation – 694 Church Avenue

2/26/18 – Pole/Brush fire – 34 Hill and Dale Road

Monthly Drill: Mutual aid drill with Milan-SCBA/Air Consumption – Thermal Imaging Camera – 15 firefighters attended.

The Chief reported the following:

• Purchased LED 3-watt lights for $850.00.
• Air compressor was serviced 3/18/18.
• The trucks will start to be serviced soon.
• County Fire School – Company operations starts in July, finished in August.
• Schoharie and Athens schools upcoming.
• Mutual aid with Tivoli for brush drill.
• Livingston meeting on past fire and radio operations open to whoever wants to go.
• The Chief was asking about a public relations officer for comments to the press when necessary. He would like Commissioner R. Rifenburgh but he declined.
• Commissioner R. Rifenburgh has an inventory from Fire Police Captain Pease for flares and batons. He will order 6 batons and look into where to get flares and the containers for the flares.

MOTION: A motion was made to pay the bills by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor.  So carried.

FUEL USAGE: Commissioner R. Rifenburgh reported that there was 19.4 gallons of fuel used.

A motion was made to adjourn at 9:20 P.M. by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh., seconded by Commissioner Miller.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon

Fire District Secretary

                                    CLERMONT PLANNING BOARD

                                                 March 14, 2018

The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, March 14, 2018 at 7:30 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Larry Saulpaugh, Mary Howard, Nathan Hempel, Jennifer Phillips, Ron Miller and Tom Jantzen. Others present were George Schmitt, Engineer for the Town, Matthew Griesemer, Attorney for the Town. After review of the February 14, 2018 minutes, a motion was made by Mary Howard, and seconded by Clayton Andrus, to accept the minutes with the noted correction of the date.  All in favor. So carried.

Amato Della Vecchia, 708 County Route 8, Tax Map ID# 169.-1-1, Ralph Del Pozzo presented a site plan for a 3 lot Minor Subdivision for Amato Della Vecchia.  Additional survey information is needed and will be provided by the applicant.  George Schmitt will be providing an opinion letter.

Motion to adjourn was made by Mary Howard and seconded by Jennifer Phillips.  All in favor. So carried.  The meeting adjourned at 8:30pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary

CLERMONT TOWN BOARD

MARCH 5, 2018

The Clermont Town Board held its regular meeting on Monday, March 5, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall.  Those in attendance were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson, Councilman Evan Hempel and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve.  There were six others present.

Supervisor Staats opened the meeting with a salute to the flag.

MINUTES: A motion was made to accept the minutes of the February meeting by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.

TOWN CLERK’S REPORT: The Town Clerk read the February Town Clerk’s report and gave the Supervisor a check for the General fund in the amount of $164.00.

CORRESPONDENCE:

• Keeping the Identities of Seniors Safe Program (K.I.S.S.) Starting March 19 through March 30 Seniors can bring in their personal papers and drop off to be shredded to the Town Hall during the Town Clerk’s regular hours – Thursday nights 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday mornings 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.
• Budget and Revenue reports for February 28, 2018

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

• Councilman Desmond reported that the Highway department has been very busy with snow removal with the recent storm. 
• The noise control law should be completed very soon.
• Web Committee:  Councilman Hempel and Councilman Gildersleeve met on the last Monday of the month with members of the committee to work on the website.  They are looking to modernize and organize the website and investigating areas which can be improved.  What the committee has discussed so far will be able to be done in house.  The committee is meeting on the fourth Monday of the month.
• Councilman Gildersleeve reminded everyone that the open burn restrictions go into effect on March 16^th.  A link to the DEC website will be put on the website.
• Councilwoman Brownson said that the Village Green Easter Egg Hunt will be held on Saturday March 24 from 2:00 – 3:00 P.M. The next Iroquois Community Grant is due at the end of April for up to $10,000.00.

OLD BUSINESS:

• Website Committee is working on the website.
• The Park Committee has a few people interested but if anyone is interested contact the Supervisor or Town Clerk.  Appointments to the committee will be made next month.
• Noise Control Law: The draft of the Noise Control Ordinance was reviewed by the Board and suggestions for changes were discussed with the public. The changes will be made and reviewed by our Engineer and Town Attorney.  A public hearing will possibly be scheduled for May.

NEW BUSINESS:

• The Supervisor has rescheduled the April Town Board meeting for Monday, April 9^th at 7:00 P.M. due to a scheduling conflict.
• Mower Purchase: The Highway Superintendent has asked for a larger mower to maintain the additional land of the park off Route 9. The total cost is $9931.00 less the trade in would be a cost of $8651.00.

A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve to purchase a new mower, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  This will be paid out of the Parks line in the budget, 7110.41.

• Sales Tax Revenue: Received for 4^th Quarter $95,406.00. Total received for last year was $371,000.00 which is $50,000 more than what we budgeted for. We did not use anything out of the fund balance for revenues because there was also an increase in Mortgage tax.

SUPERVISORS REPORT:

• The Village Green Committee is holding the Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 24^th from 2 PM to 3 PM.
• County Business: Greene County voted against using the Columbia County Jail to house their prisoners and are now reconsidering that decision.  The Counties are still trying to work out the details. It would be beneficial for Columbia County if they were to use our jail.
• County Waste: The county has been having issues with recycling costs which is getting very expensive.  They are discussing what to do because of increased costs.
• There have been new trucks purchased.  The County has not decided on whether to repair the Greenport garage or build new.

ABSTRACTS:

• A motion was made to approve General abstract #3A, vouchers #55 – #88 in the amount of $5,564.08 by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was made to approve General abstract #3 Prepaid, vouchers #52-#54 in the amount of $403.02 by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond.  All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was made to approve Highway abstract #3, vouchers #13 – #24 in the amount of $14,791.84 by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was made to approve Trust & Agency abstract #2, vouchers #3-#5 in the amount of $369.50 by Councilman Hempel, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

• Chris Nolan: The discussion on noise levels was interesting. The decible levels and distance can be affected by directional, atmospherically. We did have our engineer present and the level of 65 was used from the property line.

Also, he thanked the Highway department for clearing a tree which came down in front of his property in the recent storm.  He is an advocate of solar panels and is always looking for new ways to use solar and he saw some that were done differently and he thinks that they were on County Route 10.

• Phyllis Heiko: She stated that she met with Sgt. Finn of Hudson Police Department regarding what they allow and prohibit in the City of Hudson parks.  She submitted suggestions in writing to the Town Board for the town park.

She asked if the town has done any work on the habitat of the park and getting some expertise on this.  Councilman Desmond said we have received information from Scenic Hudson. A committee will be formed and we are looking for members.

• Sarah Takacs: Commended Councilman Hempel and Councilman Gildersleeve on the changes discussed for the website at the first meeting. She asked if DEC sent a final accounting on the Browns fields project. Supervisor Staats said that they did and also answered our questions.

A motion was made to adjourn by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond at 8:40 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon, RMC

Town Clerk

Clermont Zoning Board of Appeals

1795 Route 9
Germantown, New York 12526

February 28, 2018

The meeting opened at 7:30 pm. The meeting started with a salute to the flag. Members attending: Pete Cichetti, John Rusconi, Don Van Wagner and Phyllis Heiko. In the absence of Hank Himelright, the meeting was led by Pete Cichetti.

Pete Cichetti asked if anyone had any corrections to the minutes of the last meeting. A motion to accept the minutes with changes was made by John Rusconi, seconded by Phyllis Heiko.  All in favor.  So carried.

Windhorse Farm,  356 County Route 6, Kurt Andernach presented drawings which included the tree screening to be used on the East side, as well as fencing to be installed between K&H Fuel Oil Co. and the Windhorse property.  Conditions for approval include the installation of the fencing for K&H Fuel Oil Co. and the applicant will be subject to comply if a noise ordinance is implemented by the Town of Clermont. 

Motion to close the Public Hearing was made by John Rusconi, seconded by Don Van Wagner.  All in favor.  So carried. 

Role call vote was held for approval of the Windhorse application with the following results:  Don Van Wagner, yes.  John Rusconi, yes.  Phyllis Heiko, no.  Pete Cichetti recused himself due to being a neighbor of the applicant.

There was no new business. There was no old business.

Motion to adjourn was made by Phyllis Heiko and seconded by Don Van Wagner.  The meeting was adjourned at 8:10pm.

Respectfully Submitted ,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary

CLERMONT FIRE COMMISSIONERS

FEBRUARY 19, 2018

The Clermont Fire Commissioners held their regular meeting on Monday, February 19, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall.  Those present were Commissioner Susan Rifenburgh, Commissioner Ronald Rifenburgh, Commissioner Laurence Saulpaugh, Commissioner Ronald Miller and Commissioner Raymond Bauer. Also present was Chief Lloyd Kukon, Captain Les Coon, Evan Decker, Treasurer Denise Fiore and Robert Desmond.

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

MINUTES:

Organizational Meeting – January 15, 2018 – Commissioner Rifenburgh and Commissioner Bauer noted corrections on page 1 – Resolution #3 – change nominate to appoint, Resolution #4 – change nominate to appoint, Page 2 – Resolution #8 – change appoint to approve, remove Assistant from 1^st Lt. and 2^nd Lt. A motion was made to approve the minutes with corrections by Commissioner R. Miller , seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh.  All in favor.  So carried.

Regular Meeting – January 15, 2018 – Treasurer Fiore noted a correction on page 2 under Old Business, second bullet to add training after Treasurer’s.  Commissioner R. Rifenburgh noted a correction on page 3 – 4^th bullet – change truck # from 6014 to #60-34. A motion was made to approve with correction by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh.  All in favor.  So carried.

TREASURER’S REPORT

Total of January paid invoices                                                            $  5,489.99

Proposed February invoices                                                                $15,998.80 *

Paid February invoices                                                                        $     744.39

Total                                                                                                    $16,743.19 *

*Adjusted deducting $137.82 for Columbia Tractor.

Reconciliation of Accounts

The Bank of Greene County

            Money Market Checking Balance                                          $49,476.69

            Checking Balance                                                                   $  4,215.52

            Less Outstanding Checks                                                       $     927.42

            Checking Balance to Date                                                      $  3,288.10

            Money Market & Checking account total                              $52,764.79

Capital Reserve Fund for Fire Equipment                                          $29,711.12

Capital Reserve Fund for Contrs. & Improvement                            $33,647.04

A motion was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh to approve the Treasurer’s Report, seconded by Commissioner Miller.  All in favor.  So carried.

CORRESPONDENCE:

• RBC Wealth Management Account Statement for January $385,703.24
• Physicals received for six firefighters.
• RBC Wealth Management – Certificate of Investment Powers and Contact List to be signed and returned.
• Association of Fire Districts information for Conference
• Renewal of Accident Policy for Fire Company
• Fire District Affairs Newsletter for February – March 2018
• Doctors note for restriction to light duty until 3/6/18 for Samuel Williams.
• Financial Statement for 2017 from the accountant.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS: Commissioners Bauer and Saulpaugh

The light is fixed on Station #1

INSURANCE: Commissioners R. Rifenburgh and Miller

Fingar Insurance Agency will be here next month.

FIRE EQUIPMENT: Commissioner Bauer and Saulpaugh

• VRS will be down on March 9^th to do pump service and test.
• Checked front tire on truck 60-13.
• Commissioner Bauer suggested looking for a pressure washer that cleans under the truck.  

LOSAP: All Commissioners

• The paperwork is done and must be posted for 30 days at the station.  Call sheets must be filled out completely.

LAWS AND POLICIES: All Commissioners

LEGAL: All Commissioners

OLD BUSINESS:

• Commissioner Bauer reported that Columbia County 911 is getting District maps for us.
• Commissioner Bauer will be going to Wilton for the Fire Commissioners training.
• Commissioner Miller did check with OSHA and was referred to PESH regulations on Right to Know, and employer’s responsibility. A Workplace Violence Prevention Policy Statement should be written.  A motion was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer to accept the Workplace Violence Prevention Statement from website. All in favor.  So carried.  The other posters will be posted at both firehouses by Chief Kukon.   An accident report will be completed for the injury of last year and posted as soon as possible.   
• Commissioner R. Rifenburgh asked if the siren has come back from the former Chief. Chief Kukon will check on the control box.
• Captain Coon reported that 12 bunker pants, 10 pairs of boots and 10 jackets are needed.  Captain Coon got the price for these $21451.00. Try to get quotes separately in order to follow the procurement policy.
• Commissioner R.Rifenburgh asked if the Fire Police Captain got what equipment he needs.

NEW BUSINESS:

Firefighter Evan Decker said that he got his mask on Ebay and he has been FIT tested with it.  These are bought as surplus and sold cheaper.  There are also amplifiers which are also cheaper.  The cost would be $55.00 per and also for $18.00 to $20.00 you can get a mask bag.  The total would be about $250.00.

We currently have eight on the trucks.  There was discussion about how many to buy if buying any at all.  Lt. Decker will get prices for the bags.

He also just looked at the pressure washers for under the truck but they are very expensive. 

Firefighter Evan Decker was appointed as 2^nd Asst. Chief at the department meeting.  A motion was made to approve the appointment of Evan Decker as 2^nd Assistant Chief by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor.  So carried.

CHIEFS REPORT:

There were six calls for January.

1/8/18 – Backed up furnace – 104 Mill Road – 8 firefighters

1/10/18 – AAPD – 288 Nevis Road – 8 firefighters

1/12/18 – Mutual Aid to Livingston – 121 Estok Road – 14 firefighters

1/16/18 – Alarm activation – Carmelite Sisters – 600 Woods Road – 9 firefighters

1/17/18 – Mutual Aid Stand-by – Tivoli – 5724 Route 9G – 10 firefighters

1/20/18 – Alarm Activation – 651 County Route 6 – 8 firefighters

Monthly Drills:

1/14/18 – Ice Rescue & landing zones

1/22/18 Gear Inspection & SCBA Practice

• The Chief signed up for several courses including extrication and officers school.
• The Chief has talked to the Town Supervisor and Code Enforcement Officer regarding Emergencies.
• The Chief met with a pilot for Life Net and they are looking into holding a drill with them.
• There are state offered courses, one in Schoharie on infrared equipment for $40.00 and in Athens for $10.00.

INVENTORY: 

• Captain Coon is doing the inventory on the trucks. There was discussion about the gear on the trucks that may not be OSHA approved and if it should be on the trucks if not approved.
• Light bars:  LED Outfitters has 3Watt LED’s with siren for $825.00.  Would need three of them.
• Two Gear dryer:  Haight has a two-gear dryer for $3525.00, $410 for shipping.  This was brought to a vote at the company meeting but was tabled until next month.  The Chief asked if the District would pay part of the cost.  It was suggested that they see what the company decides and come back next month.
• There is one more OSHA class and it will be done.
• Discussed physicals and how they are being done.

Commissioner R. Rifenburgh brought up that there is no television and no internet at Station #1.

A motion was made by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Miller to pay the bills, except for the Columbia Tractor invoice for $137.82.  All in favor.  So carried.

Discussed use of the exercise facilities at Bard College.  Currently there are 5 or 6 are using the facilities. Captain Coon said that the board could reduce it to ten for $800.00.  The Commissioners will look at this before the expiration of the current arrangement in May.

Social Media Policy: It was suggested that we should look at having a social media policy.

Fuel Usage Report: 28.2 gallons used

PUBLIC COMMENT:

• Bob asked about the Livingston and Milan District and how they are shown on district maps.
• Firefighter Jackie Therrien has indicated that she wants to be inactive. Assistant Chief Decker will get a letter from her and will make sure the gear is returned.
• Discussed the return of gear from Jimmy Connolly who has verbally resigned.
• Outlet at back door keeps burning out lightbulbs.
• The halogen light is out on 6013. 

A motion was made to adjourn at 9:00 P.M. by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Miller.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon

Fire District Secretary

                                      CLERMONT PLANNING BOARD

                                                February 14, 2018

The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, February 14, 2018 at 7:30 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Larry Saulpaugh, Clayton Andrus, Mary Howard, Nathan Hempel, Jennifer Phillips and Tom Jantzen. Others present were George Schmitt, Engineer for the Town, Matthew Griesemer, Attorney for the Town. After review of the January 10, 2018 minutes, a motion was made by Mary Howard, and seconded by Clayton Andrus, to accept the minutes with the noted correction of the date.  All in favor. So carried.

There were no new applications.

Larry Saulpaugh raised the question to George Schmitt and Matthew Griesemer regarding the status of the Verizon cell tower.  Matthew Griesemer replied a November 2017 letter from Verizon stated the applicant is waiting to hear from the Town of Clermont Building Inspector, Sam Harkins.

Motion to adjourn was made by Mary Howard and seconded by Jennifer Phillips.  All in favor. So carried.  The meeting adjourned at 8:10pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary

CLERMONT TOWN BOARD

FEBRUARY 5, 2018

 

The Clermont Town Board held their regular meeting on Monday, February 5, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall.  Those in attendance were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson, Councilman Evan Hempel and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve.  Others present were George Schmitt, Engineer for the Town, Don VanWagner, Anthony Miserendino, Sara Takacs, Mary Howard and Samuel Williams, Ray Tousey and Phyllis Heiko.

 

Supervisor Staats opened the meeting with the salute to the flag. 

 

NOISE ORDINANCE: Supervisor Staats introduced George Schmitt to go over the proposed noise ordinance.  George brought in a meter that is used to measure the level of sound and explained to the board about the levels of sound.  It would take approximately 15 to 30 minutes to measurer the ambient sound at a site.  The ordinance also has definitions for prohibited noise exceptions, enforcement and penalties.  Some towns use the ambient sound and whatever that is, allows 2x as loud as the ambient.  Applicants could apply for a variance if their sound is too loud.  The variance would regulate the level of sound and hours on a particular project.  The fees for penalties were also discussed and suggested increasing them and loss of permit for habitual violations.

Supervisor Staats asked George to get corrections done and submit to our attorney, Andy Howard.  We will review the final draft and set a public hearing for April. 

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

Mr. Misirendino is not clear which the board is supporting to establish the violation.  Supervisor Staats is looking at setting a set level.  If it is going to be a set level you should set levels for day and night.  Suggested 65 for day, then 55 at night or lower.

The board should make a distinction as to which method is being used. The additional level does increase significantly.  Also, the instrument being used should be certified as Type 1 or Type 2.

Ms. Heiko suggested that the person should be someone who is trained to take the measurement. 

 

MINUTES:

• A motion was made by Councilman Desmond to approve the minutes of the January 2nd Organizational Meeting, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was made by Councilman Desmond to approve the minutes of the January 2nd regular meeting seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve the January 13^th Review of the Books minutes, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.

TOWN CLERK’S REPORT: The Town Clerk read the report for January and presented the Supervisor with a check for the General Fund in the amount of $1,042.00 and a check for Trust & Agency in the amount of $27.52.   A motion was made to accept the Town Clerk’s report by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.

 

CORRESPONDENCE:

• Columbia County Department of Health Free Rabies Clinics – Check on the town website or call the Town Clerk for information.
• Public Hearing – Town of Red Hook on February 13 at 7:35 P.M. at the Town Hall on a Local Law to amend the Zoning Law regarding subsurface Utility Systems.
• An email received from a resident thanking the Highway Department for the exceptional job this year keeping our roads cleared.
• Received Budget and Revenue reports for January 31, 2018 from Supervisor Staats.

 

A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson to move into executive session to discuss a Highway personnel issue, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve at 8:10 P.M.

 

A motion was made to come out of executive session by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve at 8:20 P.M

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

• Councilman Desmond reported that the 2011 Ford pickup truck was sold for $15,200.00 on the auction site.
• Website: This will be discussed under Old Business.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

• CODE ENFORCEMENT: Our new Code Enforcement officer, Sam Harkins, has requested code books. They have been received.
• WEBSITE: We have been seeking volunteers to work on the website design. The Supervisor would like to appoint a committee consisting of Councilman Hempel as Chair,  Sara Takacs,  Maura DeKaser, Ellen Earle and Kris Gildersleeve. 
• HIGHWAY TRUCK: The Highway truck was sold and received the confirmation for $15,200.00.
• PARK DEVELOPMENT: DEC has completed their work.  He would like a committee to get some starting points, such as trail, veterans monument. There is a balance in fund of $20,000.  He would like to appoint Councilman Desmond to chair, Mary Howard and if anyone else is interested call the Town Clerk, Supervisor or any member of the Board.

 

 

NEW BUSINESS:

• RESOLUTION NO. 35-18 FEE SCHEDULE: At the meeting on January 13^th, the board reviewed Resolution #35-18 Fee Schedule with suggestions made by the Code Enforcement Officer. In addition to the fees there was a change suggested on page 2 to remove the paragraph relative to fees for inspections as these fees are incorporated into the new fees.  Councilman Hempel asked if the inspection fails, would there be additional charges.  Supervisor Staats will ask Sam Harkins about this.

A motion was made by Councilman Desmond to approve Resolution #35-18 fee schedule as amended, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.

• RESOLUTION NO. 41-18 Budget Transfer – Transfer from the Highway Fund Balance into the Highway Equipment Fund in the amount of $30,000.00.A motion was made to approve Resolution # 41-18 by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.
• HIGHWAY PERSONNEL POLICY:  At the review of policies, the Board concerned about the rising cost of health care asked the Supervisor to look into what can be done to reduce the Towns costs.  The following is the suggestion to change the policy:Existing employees as of January 1, 2018

  Individual plan – Single plan coverage paid in full by the town with a cap on maximum amount Town will pay at $9,000.00.  The employee will be responsible for any additional premiums above the cap.

  Family Plan – Employee pays 20%, Town pays 80% of monthly premium with the Town’s portion capped at a maximum of $20,000 per family plan.  The employee will be responsible for any additional premiums above the cap.

            New Hires after 1/1/2108

Individual Plan – Single plan coverage paid in full by the Town with a cap on maximum amount the Town will pay at $9,000.00.  The employee will be responsible for any additional premiums above the cap.

Family Plan – Employee pays 30%, Town pays 70% of monthly premium with the Town’s portion capped at a maximum of $18,000.00 per family plan.  The employee will be responsible for any additional premiums above the cap.

A motion was made to amend and approve the Highway Personnel Policy by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor.  So carried.

 

SUPERVISORS REPORT:

• The County sales tax was about 7.7 % higher than last year.
• JAIL:  Still discussing whether to accept inmates from Greene County for housing.  He has not seen the numbers but is told that it could be good for Columbia County.  They pay currently for us to house some of their inmates.
• The Sewer District project will be taken over by Commerce Park in Greenport to run a wastewater line.
• There is a proposal to put a trail system on the Hudson Landfill. The County did a study on this.  The Supervisor is not in favor of this and has voted against it several times because he doesn’t feel the county should put money into this.
• Thanked the Town Highway Department for keeping the roads cleared and safe and checking the heat in our buildings during the weekend. We had run out of fuel during the cold temperatures earlier in the year. There were several different reasons given for the delivery problems by several local distributors.

 

ABSTRACTS:

• A motion was made by Councilman Hempel, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve General abstract #2A, vouchers #17 – 51 in the amount of $9,783.31.  All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve Trust & Agency abstract #1, vouchers #1-2 in the amount of $700.00.  All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Hempel to approve Highway abstract #2, vouchers #2 – 12 in the amount of $11,306.57.  All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve Prepaid General abstract #2, vouchers #14, 15, 16 in the amount of $336.59.  All in favor.  So carried.

 

PUBLIC COMMENT:

Sara Takacs – Asked if there was anything from the County to provide more comprehensive insurance.  This is a problem for everyone but this is actually better than it could be.  This is why we are trying something to help our cost.

 

A motion was made to adjourn by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond at 8:50 P.M.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

 

Mary Helen Shannon, RMC

Town Clerk

 

Clermont Zoning Board of Appeals

1795 Route 9
Germantown, New York 12526

January 24, 2018

The meeting opened at 7:30 pm. The meeting started with a salute to the flag. Members attending: Hank Himelright, Pete Cichetti, John Rusconi, Luke Kumburis, Don Van Wagner and Phyllis Heiko. George Schmitt, Town Engineer, and Brian Henchy, Town Attorney, were also in attendance.

Hank Himelright asked if anyone had any additions, corrections or omissions to the minutes of the last meeting. A motion to accept the minutes was made by John Rusconi, seconded by Don Van Wagner.  All in favor.  So carried.

Windhorse Farm,  356 County Route 6, Motion was made by Don Van Wagner to open the Public Hearing for Windhorse Farm, seconded by John Rusconi.  A role call vote was held to open in the absence of Windhorse Farm was as follows:  Hank Himmelright, yes; Pete Cichetti, no; John Rusconi, yes; Luke Kumburis, yes; Don Van Wagner, yes.  The applicant, Windhorse Farm arrived as the roll call vote was completed.  Kurt Andernach presented the proposed plan and site plan map tot the audience.  Questions from the audience regarding the lighting height and wattage and suggested screening to assist in limiting lighting issues were raised, as well as a noise ordinance. George Schmitt stated Clermont did not have a noise ordinance at this time.  Anne Katrin Spiess, owner of Windhorse Farm, spoke of future plans for the property.  George Schmitt explained any additional activities held on the property would lead to the project being in violation of the Board’s approval.  Pete Cichetti recused himself due to his being a neighbor.

Conditions were discussed regarding the approval of the Windhorse Farm application.  Conditions included additional screening of the County Route side of the property, as well as the East side of the property.  In addition, sounds would be regulated by an future sound ordinance established by

the Town of Clermont.  Voting will be held at the February 28, 2018 meeting.

There was no old business.

New business: Pete Cichetti spoke as an applicant regarding an appeal or interpretation.  Brian Henchy, Attorney for the Town, stated the Board has no authority, nor is an application properly before the ZBA. 

Motion to adjourn was made by John Rusconi, seconded by Luke Kumburis.  All in favor.  So carried.  The meeting closed at 9:05pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary