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Board Meeting Minutes

Town board – July 2019

CLERMONT TOWN BOARD MINUTES

                                                                        JULY 1, 2019

The Clermont Town Board held their regular meeting on Monday, July 1, 2019 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 in attendance were Mary Howard, Phyllis Heiko, Cody Rockefeller, Chris Nolan, Ray Tousey and one other resident.

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

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

CORRESPONDENCE:

  • TOWN CLERK’S REPORT: The Town Clerk presented a check for the General Fund in the amount of $320.94 and for Trust & Agency in the amount of $900.00.
  • Columbia County Office for the Aging Elder Express newsletter for July – September.
  • Received the budget and revenue report from the Supervisor for June 30, 2019.
  • Website: There were no comments.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

  • Councilman Desmond reported that the new Highway Truck has been received and there are just a few items which have yet to be done but it is within the budgeted amount.  The Supervisor will report on the old truck.
  • PARK COMMITTEE: Committee members planted bushes and plants at the entrance to the park on Route 9.   The Committee met on June 24th regarding screening with two neighbors who responded to a request for input. Water for the site was also discussed for watering plants, trees, etc. The committee is looking for recommendations on the site plan and they are also suggesting that the two parks be joined together. They also have come up with a park logo showing an apple tree and sheep. There were suggestions made for signage but no decisions have been made.  Supervisor Staats would like to see ‘no animals allowed on the sports fields’ on the signs. Mary has also written up a brochure with the park rules. These topics will be discussed next month.  Supervisor Staats thanked Mary Howard and the committee for all the work that has been put into it. The highway department also did a lot of preparation and the Supervisor thanked them also.
  • WEBSITE: Councilman Hempel is hoping to finalize the new website within the next few weeks and switch over early next month.  The board said that when he feels it is ready to go live he should just go ahead.  Councilman Gildersleeve asked if an email could be sent out to the board members before so they could look at it.  Councilman Gildersleeve did speak with someone who is interested in web design and development and would be willing to help. 
  • GRANTS: Councilwoman Brownson was advised that the Bank of Greene County did award Clermont $750.00 towards the grant that she wrote for the park.  They will be awarding this on August 13th at the Germantown branch.  More details will follow.

Councilwoman Brownson requested $6300 through the Iroquois Community Grant. We were awarded $5000.00.  We have one year to complete the project, starting on 6/15/19, completing by 6/15/2020.

Councilwoman Brownson also thought it might be possible to submit the hours spent by the highway department on the project as in-kind donations. Supervisor Staats thanked both organizations for their continued support.

OLD BUSINESS:

  • Last month the Supervisor reported that he borrowed benches from Germantown for the soccer games which were held in our field.  He thanked them for lending them to us.  Last month it was approved to order two benches for our field and they have been received.
  • GRIEVANCE DAY: The Board of Assessment Review and Assessor met on June 4th to hear 37 grievances on assessments.  Some adjustments were made where they felt necessary. We are now at 100% with the state.  We will continue to keep it at 100%.

NEW BUSINESS:

  • ASSESSORS REAPPOINTMENT: The Assessors term expires September 30, 2019 and the County has asked that we make an appointment early.  The board has discussed the job that Cheryl Kaszluga has been doing and Supervisor Staats would like to reappoint her for a six-year term beginning October 1, 2019 through September 30, 2025. A motion was made to approve Resolution #40 – 2019 by Councilman Desmond to reappoint Cheryl Kaszluga for a six-year term beginning October 1, 2019 to September 30, 2025, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor. So carried.
  • HIGHWAY TRUCK: The Supervisor would like a motion to declare the 2006 Ford F550 dump truck with 9 foot Myers plow as surplus equipment.  A motion was made to approve Resolution #39-2019 by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor. So carried.
  • AUGUST MEETING:  There is a conflict with the Supervisor for the August meeting, which would normally be on the first Monday and after discussion with the board, a motion was made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve to change the meeting to Friday, August 2nd at 7:00 P.M.
  • SUPPORT LETTER: Supervisor Staats was asked by Columbia Land Conservancy to send a letter of support for their application to NYS Environmental Conservation’s Local Stewardship Planning grant opportunity.  The Supervisor prepared a letter and asked for a motion which was made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.

SUPERVISORS REPORT:

  • B/T General Contractors was awarded the bid for painting and roof repair from the hail storm damage.  They are working on the scheduling and the Supervisor would like it to be done by the end of summer.
  • Raymond thanked the volunteers that worked on the park entrance and the Highway department for the preparation work. He also thanked the Bank of Greene County and Iroquois for their support.

ABSTRACTS:

A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve General abstract #7A, vouchers #174 to #204, in the amount of $13,135.54, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made by Councilman Hempel to approve pre-paid General abstract #7, vouchers #171 to #173 in the amount of $154.35, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson to approve Trust & Agency abstract #7, vouchers #19 to #21 in the amount of $650.00, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made by Councilman Desmond to approve Highway abstract #7, vouchers #59 to #68 in the amount of $112,736.07, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor.  So carried.

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

Phyllis Heiko heard that they are taking down the Mill Road bridge.  Yes, it is in the process of being taken down.

Chris Nolan asked if there is anything to prevent trees from being removed from your own property, determining what kind of trees can be planted or where you can plant trees in relation to the road.  It was suggested that he speak to the highway superintendent about planting near the right of way.  He also talked about old houses and the types of plaques that can be mounted on these houses that shows the year that they were built.

Phyllis Heiko asked about the senior shredding program which ended June 28th.  The next is expected to start December 2 thru December 13th.

Mary Howard said that there is state funding, which we might qualify for with the application due in July or August.  She would like to work with Councilwoman Brownson on the next grant for the park.

A motion was made to adjourn by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve at 7:40 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon, RMC

Town Clerk

Fire Commissioners – June 2019

CLERMONT FIRE COMMISSIONERS

                                                                    JUNE 17, 2019

The Clermont Fire Commissioners held their regular meeting on Monday, June 17, 2019 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Chairwoman Susan Rifenburgh, Commissioner Raymond Bauer and Commissioner Ronald Rifenburgh.  Also present was Denise Fiore, Treasurer, Captain Les Coons and Robert Desmond.

 

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

MINUTES: A motion was made by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Susan Rifenburgh. All in favor. So carried.

 

 

TREASURERS REPORT:

 

June 17, 2019 Fire Commissioners’ Treasurer’s Report                   

 

RE:  May 2019

 

Total Amount of May 2019 Invoices Paid                          $ 6,088.73

 

RE:  June 2019

                                                                                          

Proposed June 2019 Invoices                                               $17,516.14

Paid June 2019 Invoices                                                           3,047.30  

                                                Total                                                                   $20,563.74

 

Reconciliation of Accounts

The Bank of Greene County Balances to Date

 

Money Market Checking Balance*                                                      $ 197,286.02

*Includes interest paid on 5/31/19 in the amount of $59.83

 

Checking Balance                                                                                              5,682.50           

Less Outstanding Checks                                                                                2,979.78

Checking Balance to Date                                                                              2,702.72

 

Money Market & Checking A/C Total                                                $ 199,988.74

 

Capital Reserve Fund for Fire Equipment                                        $29,728.61 (as of 12/31/18)

                                                                                                                       

                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

 

                Total                                                                                               $   29,747.05                                                                                                                                           

Capital Reserve Fund for Constr. &Improvement:        $   33,666.86 (as of 12/31/18)

                                                                                                               

                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 – 5/31/10                                                                       4.29         

 

                                                                               Total                                $   33,687.75

 

Denise Fiore, Treasurer

June 17, 2019

 

MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner S. Rifenburgh to accept the Treasurers Report.  All in favor. So carried.

 

CORRESPONDENCE:

  • Physicals were received from CMH on the following:

Brendon Hegarty, Richard Larsen, Samuel Williams, Christopher Farewell, Cody Rockefeller, Collin Brown.

  • Copy of letter written to Terry Decker regarding generator testing.
  • RBC Wealth Management for May – $375,181.96
  • Fire District Affairs for June – July.

 

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS: Commissioner Bauer

  • Thanked Commissioner Bauer for getting Station #1 parking lot ready for the paving. He would like to send a thank you to Jimmy Potts for his efforts in the parking lot.  The invoice came in approximately $800.00 over estimate because there were some depth adjustments made.

 

INSURANCE: Commissioners R. Rifenburgh and Commissioner Miller

No Report

 

FIRE EQUIPMENT: Commissioner Bauer

  • AED – Commissioner R. Rifenburgh would like to get a price on a new AED.  A new battery cost $377.00.  This would be the second one in two years.
  • The hydrant on Cemetery Road is out of service.

A motion was made to spend the money to repair the hydrant with new 8 inch pipe, strainer and head by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer.  All in favor. So carried.

  • Truck #6034 (Tanker) the water level gauge stops at half a tank.  It was discussed to let operators know to watch water level.
  • Thermal Imaging Camera isn’t working well. 

 

LOSAP:  All Commissioners

No report

 

LAWS AND POLICIES: All Commissioners

No report

 

LEGAL: All Commissioners

No Report

 

OLD BUSINESS:

  • A motion was made to move any unexpended balance from 2018 into the truck reserve by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer.  All in favor.  So carried.
  • There was discussion regarding training budget and Treasurer Fiore said that there is enough money in the training budget for the planned seminar attendance.
  • FIT test: Names will be sent to the Livingston Chief of our members who will take the FIT tests. 

 

CHIEFS REPORT:

There were five calls in May as follows:

5/6/19 – Alarm activation – Clermont State Historic Site – Woods Road

5/8/19 – EMS Assist – 125 County Route 6

5/9/19 – CO Detector Activation – 24 Trout Creek Road

5/12/19 – Alarm Activation – 760 Woods Road

5/19/19 – Tree on wires – 670 Woods Road

 

Drills/Work Details

5/27/19 – Memorial Day Parade – Germantown – 4 firefighters

5/28/19 – Drill/Hose advancement/Interior attack – 6 firefighters

5/28/19 – BEFO  class – Stuyvesant

                        Taken by Evan Decker/Lloyd Kukon

  • Truck reports: Commissioner Rifenburgh does not see all the truck reports for the month.  Captain Coon said he did not get all done.

 

MOTION: A motion was made to pay the bills by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer.

FUEL USAGE: The Fuel Usage through 5/21/19 was 44.7 gallons, 36 inch depth. 

 

PUBLIC COMMENT:

  • Bob Desmond asked about dry hydrants and freezing.  They do not freeze because until you draft the water it doesn’t come up about the freeze line.  The Commissioners discussed new hydrants and at the next meeting will discuss further about hydrants. Also suggestions were made about contacting Soil and Water conservation for grants.
  • Captain Coon contacted John Lutich about repairs to Truck# 6013 and it is on the calendar for July 7th.  He also contacted the grant writer about the grant that we filed.  We have not heard anything yet.

 

A motion to adjourn was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer at 7:55 P.M.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

 

Mary Helen Shannon

Fire District Secretary

 

 

 

 

 

 

Planning Board – June 2019

CLERMONT PLANNING BOARD

 June 12, 2019

The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at 7:30 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Larry Saulpaugh, Nathan Hempel, Mary Howard, Ron Miller, Tom Jantzen, Jennifer Phillips, Clayton Andrus and alternate Cody Rockefeller. Others present were George Schmitt, Engineer for the Town, Matthew Griesemer, Attorney for the Town.

After review of the May 2019 minutes, a motion was made by Mary Howard, seconded by Tom Jantzen, to accept the minutes.  All in favor. So carried.

Pamela Haug, Moore Farm LLC, 301 Nevis Road, Tax ID# 191.01-1-29, is applying for a Minor Subdivision.  The proposed parcel of 7.952 acres will be divided from the existing parcel of 46.054 acres, leaving the main parcel of 38.102 acres. The smaller parcel will have a right of way.  The Columbia County Health Department has approved a 1,000 gallon septic tank.  The application was deemed complete as received.  Motion to accept the application was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Tom Jantzen.  All in favor. So carried.  Motion to schedule the Public Hearing for July 10, 2019 was made by Mary Howard, seconded by Nathan Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.

Carmelite Sisters, 600 Woods Road, Tax ID# 179-1-69, represented by Rob Sasser from Tighe and Bond, proposes to build a visitors’ cottage.  The applicant returned with the additions of 1,000 gallon septic tank and lighting to the site plan.  The application was deemed complete as received.  Motion to accept the application was made by Ron Miller, seconded by Clayton Andrus.  All in favor.  So carried.  Motion to schedule the Public Hearing For July 10, 2019 was made Tom Jantzen, seconded by Nathan Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.  Motion to make the Planning Board the lead agency was made by Mary Howard, seconded by Jennifer Phillips.  All in favor.  So carried.

Motion to adjourn was made by Mary Howard, seconded by Ron Miller.  All in favor. So carried.  The meeting adjourned at 8:33pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary

Town Board – June 2019

TOWN OF CLERMONT

                                                            JUNE 3, 2019

The Clermont Town Board held their regular meeting on Monday, June 3, 2019 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. Our videographer, Fred Cartier, was not able to make the meeting. We wish him a speedy recovery.  There were two residents present.

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

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

TOWN CLERKS REPORT: The Town Clerk presented the Supervisor checks in the amount of $486.28 for the General fund and $1,000.00 for Trust and Agency.

CORRESPONDENCE:

  • Received notice of public hearing in Livingston for a special use permit for the installation of a wireless telecommunications facility on Danski Road for June 5, 2019 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall.
  • Narcan Training being offered at Pine Plains High School by Dr. Handler on Thursday, June 13 from 3:30 to 4:30 PM and 6:00 to 7:00 PM.
  • Received the budget and revenue reports from the Supervisor for May 31, 2019.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

  • Councilman Desmond stated that the Park Committee has been working on a plan for screening, signs showing prohibited uses.  There was discussion on what would be included on the signs.
  • Councilman Hempel reported that the design of the website is about 80% done.  He is hoping to have it done in the next few weeks.
  •  Councilwoman Brownson was notified that the Town was to received $750.00 from the Bank of Greene County for a grant that she applied for to be used for the park entrance. She also said that we should receive word on a grant from Iroquois Community Grant for park funds.  The Park committee is holding a planting on June 15th at park entrance. All are invited to join the activities.

OLD BUSINESS:

CONTRACTS FOR DAMAGE FROM HAIL STORM:

A bid was received from Jennings Contracting to repair Community House roof for $9,100 but he was not able to meet the bid specs so he is withdrawing his bid. The other bidder was B/T Contractors, Inc. at $11,164.00.  A motion was made to award the bid to B/T Contractors by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.

The bid received from Jennings Contracting for roof repair on storage building/shed for $8,860.20 also did not meet the specs.  The bid from B/T contractors was for $9500.00 and was accepted on a motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond.  All in favor.  So carried. These will be paid from the Buildings account #1620.4.

NEW  BUSINESS:

  • SOCCER FIELD BENCHES: Supervisor Staats said that a Soccer Tournament was held at the new field at Hettling Park in Clermont.  The field is being very well received by visitors.  He did have to borrow benches from Germantown for the tournament so he is proposing that the use of donations we have received and the donation from the Germantown Soccer League that we purchase two benches for $1,070.52. A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve and Councilman Desmond to make the purchase from these funds.  All in favor.  So carried.
  • BUDGET AMENDMENTS:

Budget Amendment No. 2 of 2019: General Fund

To: Buildings A1620.4   Increase appropriations            $17,013.04

From: Insurance Recoveries A02680 decrease est. revenues                      $17,013.04

To: Town Board A1010.4 Increase appropriations              $243.00

From; Supervisor A1220.4 Decrease appropriations                                       $243.00

To: Assessors A1355.4 Increase appropriations                   $500.00

From: Contingent A1990.4 Decrease appropriations                                     $500.00

Total:                                                                                $17,756.04          $17,756.04

Motion to approve budget amendment to balance accounts by Councilman Hempel, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in Favor.  So carried.

Budget Amendment No. 2 of 2019: Highway Fund

To: Improvements DA5112.2 Increase Appropriations         $10,621.81

From: PAVE NY DA03501.1 Decrease est. revenues                                   $10,621.81

Motion to approve budget amendment for funds received for road paving from PAVE NY by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond.  All in favor.  So carried.

SUPERVISORS REPORT:

  • MORTGAGE TAX: A check in the amount of $29,647.62 was received for the mortgage tax.  The amount budgeted for estimated revenues is $40,000.00. 
  • GRIEVANCE DAY:  A reminder that Grievance day is Tuesday, June 4th from 3PM to 5PM and 6PM to 8PM.
  • HIGHWAY TRUCK:  The new truck should be received this week.
  • The Supervisor has not met with anyone on housing for Special Needs regarding the number of homes in Clermont.

ABSTRACTS:

A motion was made to approve Trust & Agency abstract #5, vouchers #13-18 in the amount of $1,250.00 by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made to approve General Prepaid abstract #6, vouchers #141-143 in the amount of $183.97 by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made to approve Highway abstract #6, vouchers #47-58 in the amount of $7,285.57 by Councilman Hempel, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made to approve General Fund abstract #6A, vouchers #144-170 in the amount of $14,600.10 by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

Phyllis Heiko thanked the board for the action taken on getting a letter from our attorney to DEC regarding Red Wing Properties.

She also said that members of the Planning and Zoning are calling for the opening of the Bingham’s Mill Bridge.

She also asked that there be something written in the zoning regarding items that don’t sell at a yard sale being left on the side of the road indefinitely.

A motion was made to adjourn at 7:35 PM by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.

Respectfully submitted

Mary Helen Shannon, RMC

Town Clerk

Zoning Board of Appeals – May 2019

Clermont Zoning Board of Appeals
1795 Route 9
Germantown, New York 12526

May 22, 2019

The meeting opened at 7:30 pm. The meeting started with a salute to the flag. Members attending were Hank Himelright,  Luke Kumburis, Don Van Wagner, John Rosconi  and Phyllis Heiko.  Town Attorney Brian Henchy was also present.

Hank Himelright asked if anyone had any additions, corrections or omissions to the minutes of the last meeting, April 24, 2019.  A motion to accept the minutes was made by Luke Kumburis, seconded by Don Van Wagner.  All in favor.  So carried.

Fook Chew, 14 Sharon Drive, Tax ID #191.4-2-5.4, has withdrawn their application for ground mounted solar panels.  Motion to close the application was made by Phyllis Heiko, seconded by Don Van Wagner. All in favor.  So carried. 

Richard and Donna Stickle, 1188 County Route 6, Tax ID# 180.-2-43.1, Motion to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing was made by Don Van Wagner, seconded by John Rosconi.  All in favor.  So carried..  There were no comments from the audience regarding the application for an area variance.  It was determined an area variance is not needed.  The proposed garage is an accessory building and only needs a 10’ set back.  Motion was made to close the Public Hearing and return to the regular meeting was made by Don Van Wagner, seconded by Phyllis Heiko.  All in favor.  So carried. 

Anne Katrin Spiess, 356 County Route 6, Tax ID# 179.-1-48, A roll call vote was taken for the Spiess solar panel project.  Motion to approve: Don Van Wagner, yes; John Rosconi, yes; Hank Himelright, yes; Luke Kumburis, yes: Phyllis Heiko, yes.  All approved. So carried.

Greg and Donna Fingar, 122 Mill Road, Tax ID #180.-2-56,  discussion was held regarding the meaning of the zoning lawyer subdivisions and the increase in traffic.  A roll call vote was taken to accept the proposed interpretation as offered by the applicant.  Motion to approve:  Luke Kumburis, yes; John Rosconi, yes; Phyllis Heiko, yes;  Hank Himelright, yes; Don Van Wagner, no. So Carried.

The new local law regarding Lot Line/Minor Subdivision was distributed to the Board. 

Motion to adjourn was made by Luke Kumburis, seconded by John Rosconi.  All in favor. So carried.  The meeting closed at 8:10pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary

Fire Commissioners – May 2019

CLERMONT FIRE COMMISSIONERS

                                                            MAY 20, 2019

The Clermont Fire Commissioners held their regular meeting on Monday, May 20, 2019 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall.  Those in attendance were Chairwoman Susan Rifenburgh, Commissioner Ron Miller and Commissioner Raymond Bauer.  Also present was Chief Lloyd Kukon, Treasurer Denise Fiore, Firefighter Joseph Scott and Robert Desmond.

Commissioner Ronald Rifenburgh was absent.

At the last Clermont Fire Company meeting Joseph Scott was appointed to the position of First Lieutenant. He is present and the Chairwoman would like a motion to approve the appointment of Joseph Scott to the position of First Lieutenant.  A motion was made by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor.  So carried. He was sworn in by the Town Clerk.

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

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

TREASURERS REPORT:

May 20, 2019 Fire Commissioners’ Treasurer’s Report                   

RE:  April 2019

Total Amount of April 2019 Invoices Paid                                                               $ 6,049.44

RE:  May 2019

Proposed May 2019 Invoices                                   $ 2,888.33

Paid May 2019 Invoices                                                                       3,200.40  

                               Total                                                                                      $ 6,088.73

Reconciliation of Accounts

The Bank of Greene County Balances to Date

Money Market Checking Balance*                                                $ 207,226.19

*Includes interest paid on 4/30/19 in the amount of $60.27

Checking Balance                                                                                   1,755.70

Plus Deposit (4/17/19)                                                                                5,000.00           

Less Outstanding Checks                                                                       3,117.87

Checking Balance to Date                                                                      3,637.83

Money Market & Checking A/C Total                                             $ 210,864.02

Capital Reserve Fund for Fire Equipment                           $   29,728.61 (as of 12/31/18)

            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

                                                            Total                          $   29,743.26                                             

Capital Reserve Fund for Constr. &Improvement:              $   33,666.86 (as of 12/31/18)

            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     

                                                             Total                          $   33,683.46

Denise Fiore, Treasurer

May 20, 2019

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

CORRESPONDENCE:

  • Physicals received for Christopher Farewell and Jacqueline Therrian Decker.
  • RBC Wealth Management for April – $385,150.94.
  • Fuel Log – 9 gals used.

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS: Commissioner Bauer

  • Commissioner Bauer reported that he and Highway Superintendent Potts have been working on the drainage at Station #1 and the parking lot is ready for blacktop.  Colarussos is behind because of the recent rains. 
  • He also reported that the Deckers, neighbors to the north of the firehouse, complained about the generator noise.  A letter will be written to them asking them for a day and time that they would prefer for the test to be done.  Currently, the test is done on Saturday at noon.  Mr. Decker also suggested moving the generator to the south side of the building.  They can let the Secretary know or come to the next meeting.

INSURANCE: Commissioner R. Rifenburgh and Commissioner Miller

No report

FIRE EQUIPMENT: Commissioner Bauer

  • The Chief got an estimate for the missing radio and microphone for the insurance company.  The estimate was $1,455.75 for radio and microphone with a 31% discount. The microphones that were missing have been found.  They had been moved to a different location.
  • Grant for gear: We have not gotten a letter stating that we were not approved for the grant, so we are still hoping we may get it.  If we do receive it, we will have to pay 5%.

LOSAP: All Commissioners

No report

LAWS AND POLICIES:  All Commissioners

No report

LEGAL: All Commissioners

No report

OLD BUSINESS:

  • Accounting: Treasurer Fiore reported that Brian Fitzgerald would definitely want to work with us.  He will send a letter with his fee.
  • Sexual Harassment:  Chairwoman Rifenburgh is still looking into this.
  • FIT TESTS: Livingston Fire District did get the machine for the FIT testing.  They need the names of the individuals that will be taking the FIT tests so they can program the machine.

NEW BUSINESS:

  • The Chief reported that there is a seventh firefighter who is interested in attending the training with the NYS Association of Fire Chiefs. Last month it was approved for six to attend this training. If we were a member of the Association we would pay less because of the discount.  The fee online is $175.00 for the department.  After some discussion, a motion was made by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer to join the NYS Association of Fire Chiefs.  All in favor.  So carried. A motion was made by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer to approve Jackie Decker to attend.  All in favor.  So Carried.
  • Discussed the monthly reports that are put into the system for the County and State and needing a method to be sure they are getting entered.

CHIEFS REPORT:

There were six calls for April as follows:

4/1/19 – Alarm Activation – 104 Mill Road

4/5/19 – EMS assist entrapment

4/14/19 – Alarm activation – 104 Mill Road

4/22/19 – Alarm activation – 6 Sharon Drive

4/28/19 – Mutual Aid (Tivoli) Standby at Tivoli Firehouse

4/28/19 – Mutual Aid (Tivoli) Manpower at scene – Bard College

Monthly Drills/Work Details

4/9/19 – Hose test by Waterway 2 firefighters – 7 ½ hours each

4/16/19 – Officers Meeting – five firefighters – 2 hours each

4/17/19 – Pump operations, washed parking lot – 4 firefighters-  3 hours each

4/22/19 – Extrication drill, winch, removed doors, reviewed operational practices – 11 firefighters – 2 hrs. each.

  • The Chief reported that the Essentials of Firefighting course has been completed by Cody Rockefeller and there are two other new members which will be taking the course.
  • The Chief asked permission to take two trucks to the parade in Germantown on Memorial Day, 5/27/19.  A motion was made to approve taking two trucks to the Memorial Day parade in Germantown by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor.  So carried.

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

PUBLIC COMMENT:

Bob Desmond asked about the appointment to the Lieutenants position.  The Fire Company notified all that were eligible to run and the only one that wanted to was Joseph Scott.  Before Mr. Desmond got here, Mr. Scott was approved and sworn in.

A motion was made to adjourn by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Miller at 8:00 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon, Secretary

Clermont Fire District

Planning Board – May 2019

CLERMONT PLANNING BOARD

May 8, 2019

The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 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 April 2019 minutes, a motion was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Ron Miller, to accept the minutes.  All in favor. So carried.

Motion was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Clayton Andrus, to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing for Bruce Potts, 634 Church Avenue, Tax ID# 180.00-01-5.111.  Applicant is seeking to subdivide one parcel into 3 parcels.  There were no objections from the audience.  Motion to close the Public Hearing was made by Mary Howard, seconded by Jennifer Phillips.  All in favor.  So carried.

Mary Howard, seconded by Jennifer Phillips, rescinds the portion of the motion from the April meeting requiring a perc test and the placement of wells and septics on the 3 parcels.  Motion to deem the application as complete.  The signature cards, which have not been returned from the notification of the Public Hearing to the neighbors, will be brought in to be added to the file.

Bruce Potts, 634 Church Avenue, Tax ID #180.00-01-5.111, is seeking to subdivide 1 parcel in to 3 parcels, consisting of 26.336 acres, 16.965 acres and 33.953 acres.  Matthew Griesemer read the SEQRA, recommending to declare a negative impact.  Motion was made by Clayton Andrus, seconded by Mary Howard, to declare a negative impact.  All in favor.  So carried. Motion to approve the application was made by Nathan Hempel, seconded by Ron Miller.  All in favor. So carried.   

Carmelite Sisters, 600 Woods Road, represented by Rob Sasser from Tighe and Bond, proposes to build visitors’ cottage.  The current cottage will be removed.  Applicant will return with further lighting and septic details.

Discussion was held regarding Red Wing Mine.  Matthew Griesemer presented a letter dated April 26, 2019 to the DEC regarding Red Wing Mine.

Motion to adjourn was made by Mary Howard, seconded by Tom Jantzen.  All in favor. So carried.  The meeting adjourned at 8:55pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M Webber
Secretary

Town Board – May 2019

CLERMONT TOWN BOARD MINUTES

                                                                        MAY 6, 2019

The Clermont Town Board held a public hearing on Local Law No. 1 of 2019 amending Article IV, Section 2 of the Clermont Subdivision regulations concerning the review and approval of lot line alterations in the Town of Clermont. Those present were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson, Councilman Evan Hempel and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve.  There were 10 others present.

Supervisor Staats opened the public hearing and the Clerk read the public notice of the hearing on Local Law No. 1 of 2019 to amend the Subdivision regulations pertaining to Lot Line Alterations. This proposed law was circulated through the Planning and Zoning Boards for their input and also Columbia County Planning with no adverse effects in their opinion.  The Supervisor opened the floor to any public comment.   Councilman Desmond said that the intent is to simplify the process for applicants. With no other comments the public hearing was closed at 6:50 P.M.

Supervisor Staats opened the regular meeting of the Clermont Town Board with a salute to the flag. He welcomed the representatives of the School Districts of Germantown, Red Hook and Pine Plains to speak on the 2019-2020 budgets. 

  • Pine Plains School District: Assistant Superintendent Michael Goldbeck said that there total proposed budget is $33,928,878 an increase of 1.32% , the smallest in five years. The estimated tax levy if 2.52% so that rebates will still be coming to residents.  He went over the propositions that will be on the ballot for buses, Capital reserve and two seats on the school board.
  • Germantown Central School District: Superintendent Susan Brown and Jonathan Boehme, business manager, presented a budget of $15,597,618.00. There are two incumbents seeking reelection.  The estimated increase is 4.52%.  They are hoping to get bids in next week for the capital project.
  • Red Hook School District: Business Manager Bruce Martin came for Superintendent Paul Finch who was not able to attend.  There is a tax levy increase of 2.61%.  There is a public hearing on May 8th at the Mill Road school and registration is on May 15 from noon to 5:00 P.M. There are two incumbents running for two seats. There is a bus proposition on the ballot. Both libraries are on the ballot for funding. There is also a solar project proposition if state aid is received.
  • Red Hook Public Library: Director Dawn Jardine said that their enrollment is increasing with many more people using the programs. Ms. Jardine explained the programs that they have at the Library. They are seeking an increase of $16,400.00 on the ballot, a 4.42% increase. Also present was Maryelisa Blundell, President of the Board of Trustees/
  • Tivoli Free Library: President of the Board Erica Kane spoke to the town board about the increase in salaries and health insurance as the reason of the budget increase. The budget is $80,000 and they are asking for $1600.00 additional, a 2% increase. Also present was Director, Michele DelPirone and Gautam Sethi, President of the Board of Trustees.

There were many questions from the board on enrollment numbers and the programs that are offered.  There is a reduction in enrollment in all of the schools.

The school budget vote will be held on Tuesday, May 21 from 12:00 Noon to 9:00 P.M.

Supervisor Staats thanked all for being here.

A motion was made to go into Executive Session to discuss contract negotiations by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond at 7:45 P.M. All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made to come out of Executive session at 8:35 P.M. by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.

MINUTES: The minutes of the April meeting were reviewed by the board and a motion was made to accept by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond.  All in favor.  So carried.

TOWN CLERKS REPORT: The town clerk read the April Town Clerk report and presented a check for the General Fund to the Supervisor for $4,540.26 and for Trust and Agency for $300.00.

CORRESPONDENCE:

  • The board members received the budget and revenue reports through April.
  • There was nothing to report from the web committee

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

  • Councilman Desmond reported that the POW flag has been put up in the park. Councilman Gildersleeve ordered it for us.
  • The new highway truck should be coming in very soon.
  • Councilman Hempel reported that there is nothing to report on the new website.
  • Councilman Gildersleeve also commented on the flag being up in the park.
  • Councilwoman Brownson said that we did receive $750 from the Bank of Greene County towards the landscaping for the park from the grant that she applied for. She has also requested grant assistance to the Iroquois Community Grant Program in the amount of $6300 for landscaping at the entrance to the park.
  • Councilwoman Brownson thanked the volunteers that worked at the Easter Egg Hunt.

Phyllis Heiko asked how much is in the park fund. The Supervisor said that there is $30,000 available not including anything received since the last meeting. Councilman Desmond pointed out that the committee was authorized to spend $5,688.00 on the entrance to the park. The grants were submitted with that in mind.

Mary Howard said that the committee has been working on grant applications.

The committee is planning on planting bulbs and flowers in the park on Saturday, June 15th. Anyone is welcomed to come and help. There should be a report by the end of July.  She is trying to get everyone together for a meeting. Councilman Desmond asked if there was anything on a sign yet for the entrance. Mary has a draft of the sign and the committee will look at it and address that.The Supervisor would like some signage to the affect that there should be no dogs on the area of the fields. He has had reports that someone was dog training on the soccer field.

Phyllis Heiko asked about signs prohibiting activities in the park. She has asked before and would like the town board to address it. The committee has a draft which has to be reviewed.

OLD BUSINESS:

  • Bids for painting the Town Hall and Community House from damage done by the hail storm May 15, 2018 were opened last month and after review by the Supervisor will be awarded to B/T Contractors in the amount of $8,100.00 paid from the buildings account 1620.4. A motion was made to accept this bid by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.
  • The roof replacement contract will be awarded next month.
  • Red Wing: The Planning Board has asked our attorney to send a letter to DEC. Our attorney Matthew Griesemer did send a letter to DEC. Our Code Enforcement Officer did also contact DEC but has not heard back from them.  Phyllis asked if a site visit was done by CEO but our Supervisor said that there is no application, and unless they file an application the CEO would not do a site visit.  The letter from our attorney was read by Mary Howard.  Mrs. Marquardt stated that Red Wing should have filed for a permit to operate, however, Mary Howard stated that Red Wing mining was instituted prior to the zoning code so it is a non-conforming use but once the use changes then they would need a permit. There were further comments on this issue and whether or not they should have come for a permit in prior years. The Town Board is doing what they can on this matter. There were further conversation but they were talking over each other so there are no minutes for those conversations.

NEW BUSINESS:

  • LOCAL LAW NO. 1 OF 2019: Supervisor Staats responded to the SEQRA form and the board made a motion to declare a negative declaration by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried. Supervisor asked for a motion to approve Local Law No. 1 of 2019.  Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.  A roll call vote was as follows: Councilman Desmond, aye; Councilwoman Brownson, aye; Councilman Hempel, aye; Councilman Gildersleeve, aye; Supervisor Staats, aye.  Motion passed.
  • PARK SIGNS: The Committee will be looking at this.  

SUPERVISORS REPORT:

  • Supervisor Staats received the 1st quarter sales tax check from the County in the amount of $93,234.36. This is an increase of about 7%.
  • Pave New York:  The Highway Superintendent received word that we will receive a check for paving roads in the amount of $10,621.81.  We will do a budget amendment as we did not budget for this in the budget.
  • Easter Egg Hunt: Thanked all that helped out this year.

ABSTRACTS:

  • A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve Prepaid General abstract #5, vouchers #111-113 in the amount of $198.52, seconded by Councilman Desmond.  All in favor.  So carried.
  • A motion was made by Councilman Desmond to approve General abstract #5A, vouchers #114 – 140 in the amount of $6934.39, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor.  So carried.
  • A motion was made by Councilman Hempel to approve Highway abstract #5, vouchers #33 to #46 in the amount of $9,731.86, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.
  • A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson to approve Trust & Agency abstract #4, vouchers #10-12 in the amount of $510.00, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor.  So carried.

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

There were no further public comments.

A motion was made to adjourn at 9:20 P.M. by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Hempel.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon, RMC

Town Clerk

Zoning Board of Appeals – April 2019

Clermont Zoning Board of Appeals
1795 Route 9
Germantown, New York 12526

April 24, 2019

The meeting opened at 7:30 pm. The meeting started with a salute to the flag. Members attending: Hank Himelright,  Luke Kumburis, Don Van Wagner and Phyllis Heiko.  Town Attorney, Matthew Griesemer was also present.

Hank Himelright asked if anyone had any additions, corrections or omissions to the minutes of the last meeting, March 27, 2018.  A motion to accept the minutes as corrected was made by Luke Kumburis, seconded by Don Van Wagner.  All in favor.  So carried.

Anne Katrin Spiess, 356 County Route 6, Tax ID# 179.-1-48, Motion to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing for Anna Spiess was made by Don Van Wagner, seconded by Luke Kumburis.  Motion was made to close the Public Hearing for Anna Spiess by Phyllis Heiko, seconded by Don Van Wagner.  All in favor, so carried. 

Greg and Donna Fingar, 122 Mill Road, Tax ID #180.-2-56, Motion was made by Phyllils Heiko, seconded by Don Van Wagner, to close the regular meeting and open the Public Hearing.  Carl Whitbeck, representing the applicants, explained the proposal to subdivide the property at 122 Mill Road to the audience.  Bob Desmond explain the laws regarding subdivisions, dead end roads and cul de sacs as well as the history the Mill Road becoming a closed road.  Several other attendees spoke, giving their opinion.  Questions and answers were discussed between the Board and the audience. Motion to close the Public Hearing and return to the regular meeting was made by Phyllis Heiko, seconded by Don Van Wagner.  The Board will deliberate and make a decision within 62 days.

Fook Chew, 14 Sharon Drive, Tax ID #191.4-2-5.4, Momentum Solar of Plainview, NY, representing the applicant, presented the proposed ground mounted solar panels, consisting of 54 panels.  The Board explained the type of screening needed was evergreens.  They will return for the next meeting on May 22, 2019.  Motion for the Public Hearing to remain open and return to the regular meeting was made by Phyllis Heiko, seconded by Luke Kumburis.  All in favor.  So carried.

Richard and Donna Stickle, 1188 County Route 6, Tax ID# 180.-2-43.1, Applicant is applying for an area variance to add a garage to their existing house.  The building setback requires a 50’ setback.  The proposed setback would be 36’, requiring an area variance.  The application was accepted as complete.  A Public Hearing was set for May 22, 2019.

Motion was made to adjourn by Phyllis Heiko, seconded by Luke Kumburis.    All in favor.  So carried.  The meeting closed at 9:30pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary