Board Meeting Minutes

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

CLERMONT FIRE COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING
JANUARY 15, 2018

The Clermont Fire Commissioners held their regular meeting on Monday, January 15, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. following the Organizational Meeting.  Those present were Commissioner Susan Rifenburgh, Commissioner Laurence Saulpaugh, Commissioner Ronald Miller, Commissioner Raymond Bauer, Commissioner Ronald Rifenburgh, Treasurer Denise Fiore, Chief Lloyd Kukon, 1^st Assistant Chief Collin Brown, Captain Les Coon, 1^st Lieutenant Ryan Brown, 2^nd Lieutenant Natasha Moyer, Fire Police Captain Harry Pease, Robert Desmond and Secretary Mary Helen Shannon.

MINUTES:  After review of the December minutes a motion was made by Commissioner Saulpaugh to accept the minutes, seconded by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh.  All in favor.  So carried.

TREASURERS REPORT:

Total amount of December invoices paid                                          $  6,214.97

Proposed January invoices                                                                  $  2,975.40  *

Paid January invoices                                                                          $  2,514.59

Total                                                                                                    $  5,489.99  *

                        *Adjusted deducting $69.00 for Sausbiers invoice

Reconciliation of Accounts:

The Bank of Greene County Balances to Date

Money Market Checking Balance                                                      $54,474.48

Checking Balance                                                                               $  4,441.53

Less Outstanding Checks                                                                   $  2,433.84

Checking Balance to Date                                                                  $  2,007.69

Money Market and Checking Account Total                                     $56,482.17

Capital Reserve Fund for Fire Equipment                                          $29,713.04

Capital Reserve Fund for Construction & Improvements                  $33,648.42

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

CORRESPONDENCE:

• RBC Wealth Management December 2017 account statement – $380,893.87
• Certificate of Liability Insurance for Commercial Instruments & Alarm Systems
• Penflex Plan and Trust Documents for LOSAP.  There was discussion about putting the plans on the District Website and giving copies to new memberes that join after January 1, 2018 as the Plan has changed for them.  A motion was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Miller for the Treasurer to add these to the website. All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was also made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Miller to give an information packet to an applicant as the time he/she receives an application for membership with the plan document in it. All in favor.  So carried.

BUILDING AND GROUNDS: Commissioners Bauer and Saulpaugh

No Report

INSURANCE: Commissioners R. Rifenburgh and Miller

Chairwoman Rifenburgh received an email from Fingar Insurance that they would like to come to the February 19^th meeting to discuss our policy.

FIRE EQUIPMENT: Commissioners Bauer and Saulpaugh

• Commissioner Bauer asked about the scheduling of the service on the trucks. This servicing has to be scheduled, oil changes at Joe’s Auto, if air filters are needed have them done.  Pump service should be scheduled with VRS and pump test by Waterway. The trucks should be inspected when they are serviced by Joe’s.  Air testing of the compressor is supposed to be done trice a year, January and June and servicing is once a year.
• Truck 6010 which had the foam residue was cleaned up.
• Chief Kukon had a recall notice on the AED for corrosion.  It was corrosion in a connection but it was checked and fixed.
• The light outside the truck bay at Station #2 has been fixed with a new bulb.
• Inventory is being done at Station #1 and there are some air bottles which should be declared as scrap. 
• Commissioner R. Rifenburgh asked if the light and siren came back from the former Chief.  The light did but the siren did not.  Chief Kukon will check on that.

LOSAP: All Commissioners

• The reports for the year have not yet been received.

LAWS AND POLICIES: All Commissioners

No Report

LEGAL: All Commissioners

No Report

OLD BUSINESS:

• Lettering of the trucks has been done on trucks 6013 and 6010.
• The Treasurer did complete the Treasurer’s training given by the Association of Fire District, but the Secretary has not yet.

NEW BUSINESS:

• Chief Kukon would like to appoint Wes Werner as Engineer.
• Commissioner Bauer would like to know about the District maps and where to get them.  There were copies at each Station.  He will look into where to get them if they are not in the firehouses. 
• Commissioner Bauer would like to attend the Commissioner’s course on March 3^rd at Wilton Fire House.  A motion was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Miller to approve Commissioner Bauer attending the course. All in favor.  So carried.
• Commissioner R. Rifenburgh asked the Chief if the driver training information will be accessible to him when he needs them.
• Right to Know Policy: MSD sheets should be on file at both stations.  Commissioner Miller will look into what we need to have.  OSHA also requires a posting of any injuries or illnesses in the past year be posted at the firehouses.
• Commissioner R. Rifenburgh suggested that the Commissioners start thinking about replacing the tanker truck #60-34.  It is a 1996, twenty two years old. The last payment will be made on the mini-pumper in October 2019.  Suggested asking VRS to write up specs for a replacement of the Pumper because the process takes from 18 months to two years.
• Commissioner R. Rifenburgh said that there are two Chiefs vehicles without a lightbar or siren.  There is an unexpended balance from last year of $6,000.  He suggested that the Chief and 1^st Assistant decide what they want, not to exceed $3,000 for a lightbar and siren.  A motion was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer to purchase what they need, not to exceed $3,000 from last year’s balance.  All in favor.  So carried.

CHIEFS REPORT:

There were no calls to report for December.

Drill:

12/18/17 – Equipment Check – Ventilation – 13 Firefighters attended

• Harry Pease is the new Fire Police Captain. Commissioner R. Rifenburgh suggested that he take an inventory of what gear and items his members have and what they need and let the Chief know.

• The Chief appointed Wes Werner to be engineer.
• An Ice Rescue drill was held and an Officers meeting was also held.
• The Chief said that a coat drying rack is needed. They cost about $6,000.00. The Chief will look into it further and request the fire department to help with the purchase by paying half.
• Commissioner R. Rifenburgh suggested to the Chief that he see how much gear he needs for the members.
• Pager cases have been ordered and should be here in a few weeks.
• The Chief said that Evan Decker is interested in coming back as Car #3.  He wanted to know if Evan can he be appointed.  The fire company should ask if anyone else is interested in the position.  If not, they could appoint him, then the district could approve him.
• Commissioner Saulpaugh would like to see a drill on hybrid cars and solar panels.

MOTION:

Commissioner R. Rifenburgh made a motion to pay the bills less the $69.00 to Sausbiers for checking the fire extinquishers, which is believed to be for Station #2, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh. All in favor.  So carried.

FUEL REPORT: Commissioner R. Rifenburgh reported the fuel usage at 48.8 gallons from 11/22/17 to 1/14/18.

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

NONE

A motion was made to adjourn by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh at 9:15 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon

Fire District Secretary

                                           CLERMONT FIRE COMMISSIONERS

                                                ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING

                                                     JANUARY 15, 2018

The Clermont Fire Commissioners held their Organizational Meeting on Monday, January 15, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall.  Those present were Commissioner Susan Rifenburgh, Commissioner Laurence Saulpaugh, Commissioner Ronald Miller, Commissioner Raymond Bauer, Commissioner Ronald Rifenburgh, Treasurer Denise Fiore, Lloyd Kukon, Collin Brown,  Ryan Brown,  Natasha Moyer, Harry Pease, Les Coon and Robert Desmond.

The meeting was opened with the salute to the flag.

Commissioner Raymond Bauer was reelected in December 2017 and was sworn in for the new five year term by the Secretary.

Treasurer Fiore called the meeting to order.

Resolution #1 – 18   Appointment of Chairman

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

Resolution #2 – 18 Appointment of Vice – Chairman

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

Resolution #3 – 18 Appointment of Secretary

Commissioner Saulpaugh made a motion to appoint Mary Helen Shannon for Secretary at the budgeted salary of $2600.00, seconded by Commissioner Bauer.  All in favor.  So carried.

Resolution #4 – 18 Appointment of Treasurer

Commissioner R. Rifenburgh made a motion to appoint Denise Fiore for Treasurer at the budgeted salary of 2,600.00, seconded by Commissioner Bauer.  All in favor.  So carried.

Resolution #5 – 18 Appointment of Attorney

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

Resolution #6 – 18 Appointment of Accountant

Commissioner R. Rifenburgh made a motion to appoint Mark Fitzgerald as Accountant, seconded by Commissioner Bauer.  All in favor.  So carried.

Resolution #7 – 18 Approval of Surety/Undertaking for Treasurer

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

Resolution #8 – 18 Appointment of Fire District Chief and Line Officers

A motion was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh to approve the following, seconded by Commissioner Bauer.

Fire Chief – Lloyd Kukon

Assistant Fire Chief – Collin Brown

1^st Lieutenant – Ryan Brown

2^ndLieutenant – Natasha Moyer

Captain – Les Coon

Fire Police Captain – Harry Pease

All in favor.  So carried.

The above were sworn in by the Secretary.

Resolution #9 – 18 Official Newspaper

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

Resolution #10 – 18 Official Bank

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

Resolution #11 – 18 Authorizing Prepayment of Bills

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

Resolution #12 – 18 Authorizing the Chief to spend up to $200.00 without prior authorization from the Board of Fire Commissioners.

A motion was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh.  All in favor.  So carried.

Resolution #13 – 18 Signing of Contracts

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

Resolution #14 – 18 Designation the Location, Date and Time of the Regular monthly meeting of the Board of Commissioners

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

Resolution #15 – 18 Designating Membership in Associations for District purposes.

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

Resolution #16 – 18 Designation of Conventions, Meetings, Seminars, Training

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

Resolution #17 – 18 Operating Commitees

Buildings and Grounds – CommissionerBauer, Commissioner Saulpaugh

            Insurance – Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, Commissioner Miller

            Laws and Policies – All Commissioners

            Fire Equipment – Commissioner Bauer, Commissioner Saulpaugh

            Legal – All Commissioners

            LOSAP – All Commissioners

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

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

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

Resolution #19 – 18 Procurement and Purchasing Policy

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

Resolution #20 – 18 Insurance Agency

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

Resolution #21 – 18 Appointment of LOSAP Audit Accountant

A motion was made to appoint Brian Fitzgerald as the LOSAP Audit Accountant by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Miller.  All in favor.  So carried.

Resolution # 22 – 18 Appointment of District Physician and or Physical Examination Policy

A motion was made to name Albany Med- Emergent Care for physicals by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Miller.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made to adjourn the Organizational Meeting by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh.  All in favor.  So carried.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon

Fire District Secretary

CLERMONT TOWN BOARD

REVIEW OF BOOKS AND POLICIES

JANUARY 13, 2018

The Clermont Town Board met on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at 10:00 A. M. to review and audit the books of the Town Clerk, Tax Collector, Town Justices and Supervisor and to review all policies.  Those present were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve.  Councilman Evan Hempel was absent.  Others present were Joan Buser, Tax Collector, Ronald Banks, Town Justice, Lee Gallant, Court Clerk and Mary Helen Shannon, Town Clerk.

After the audit of the books for the end of 2017 and random months during the year, the Board found no discrepancies.

The following policies were reviewed with no changes:

            Cash Management Policy

            Code of Ethics

            Highway Personnel Policy

Investment Policy

Procurement Policy

Sexual Harassment Policy

Workplace Violence Prevention Policy

The Highway Personnel Policy was reviewed and there was discussion about Health insurance for family membership.  Supervisor Staats would like to talk to the County Human Resources department before any changes are made.

It has been suggested that we should have a noise ordinance.  Our town engineer has submitted a proposal for review.  The board will review this with our building inspector and engineer before adopting the ordinance.

The building inspector has suggested some changes to the building permit fees.  The board agrees with the changes he is proposing and it will be adopted at the next meeting.

There were no changes to the lease with the Canaan Fellowship for use of the Community House and no changes to the agreements with Pine Plains Veterinary Associates and Round Top Animal Hospital for their services.

A motion was made to adjourn at 12:30 P.M. by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor.  So carried.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon, RMC

Town Clerk

                                    CLERMONT PLANNING BOARD

                                                January 10, 2018

The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at 7:30 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Clayton Andrus, Mary Howard, Ronald Miller, and Tom Jantzen. Others present were George Schmitt, Engineer for the Town, Brian Henchy, Attorney for the Town. In the absence of Chairman Saulpaugh, Deputy Chairman Clayton Andrus opened the meeting.  After review of the December 13, 2017 minutes, a motion was made by Mary Howard, and seconded by Tom Jantzen, to accept the minutes.  All in favor. So carried.

Wesley and Cheryl Werner, 382 Nevis Road, Tax Map ID# 180.-2-31, application for a Minor Subdivision, Resubmittal of the Werner property application to extended an additional 62 days due to extenuating circumstances on part of the applicant and lack of any change of the application and site plan materials, which were approved on November 8, 2017.  Motion by Mary Howard, seconded by Ron Miller.

Motion to adjourn was made by Mary Howard and seconded by Tom Jantzen.  All in favor. So carried.  The meeting adjourned at 7:50pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary Date: 

                                                           CLERMONT TOWN BOARD

                                                                     JANUARY 2, 2018

 

The Clermont Town Board held their Organizational meeting, regular meeting and public hearing on Local Law No. 1 of 2018 on January 2, 2018 at 6:45 P.M. at the Town Hall.  Those present were Supervisor Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson. Councilman Evan Hempel and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve.  There was no one else present.

 

Supervisor Staats opened the Public Hearing on Veterans who rendered military service to the United States during the “Cold War”. that has to be done every ten years.  This does not change anything, it renews the exemption that is in place. There were no questions by anyone on the Board and there were no spectators present.  A motion was made to close the public hearing by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.

 

Three members of the Town Board were sworn in by the Clerk, Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve for a new four-year term.

 

Following the Organizational Meeting and the Public Hearing the regular meeting was opened by Supervisor Staats.

 

MINUTES:

A motion was made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Brownson to accept the minutes of the December 5^th meeting.  All in favor.  So carried.

 

A motion was made by Councilman Hempel to accept the minutes of the December 27^th Year End meeting, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor.  So carried.

 

TOWN CLERK’S REPORT:

The Town Clerk presented a check to the Supervisor for the General Fund in the amount of $845.50.  A motion was made to accept the Town Clerk’s report by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.  All in favor.  So carried.

 

CORRESPONDENCE:

• Received the Columbia County Office for the Aging Newsletter.  Copies are available.
• The Senior shredding program will be held again in March for seniors to bring in their personal papers to be shredded.
• Website: There were no comments.
• The Supervisor provided reports for December 2017. 

  COMMITTEE REPORTS:

• Councilman Desmond reported on the Community Solar Power Project in Clermont which was completed recently.  This was announced by the New York State Energy and Resource Authority. This solar power project was developed by Hudson Solar Energy and most of the panels have been sold.  There are only a few panels left.  Jeff Irish is the contact person for Hudson Solar Energy.

• Councilman Desmond reported on the Planning and Zoning training session that he attended and was presented by Mary Howard, a member of our Planning Board and the American Institute of Certified Planners.  Members of the Town Planning Board, Zoning Board and the Building Inspector attended and received two hours credit.  Councilman Desmond has attended others sessions and he said that this was one of the best he has attended.
• Web Committee:  Councilman Hempel said that he has a few people interested but if anyone is interested in helping to revamp the website please get in touch with him, Supervisor Staats or the Town Clerk.
• GRANT: Councilwoman Brownson said that the Bank of Greene County has a grant opening through January 16^th for up to $2500.00.  She is hoping for ideas for this grant. 
• DEC UPDATE:  Supervisor Staats said we have not finalized with DEC on the Brownfield project but we have sent them a list of questions regarding the charges. He has not received any answers to those questions.  The balance of what is owed for the final capping is $84,896.
• HIGHWAY:  Supervisor Staats reported that we have received the new highway pickup truck. The 2011 Ford will go to the online auction site. The book value is just higher than $13,000. Supervisor Staats thinks we should at least ask for $12,000.00 and would like the board’s input. The truck was purchased new in 2011 and the suggested retail was $34,000 with an additional $5000 for the plow.  We paid $23,000 under the state contract and $5000 for the plow. There is a slight problem with the transmission but the mechanic does not see a problem that should be fixed.  The board would like to try to get $13,000.00 for the truck. 
• INSURANCE: At the year-end meeting, Gregory and Peter Fingar provided us with the rates for our insurance for this year. Our premiums have not changed very much in the last five or six years. The Supervisor said that we should, every few years, interview with other agencies for insurance, attorney, engineer and bookkeeping services.

   

  NEW BUSINESS:

• LOCAL LAW NO. 1 OF 2018: The public hearing was held prior to this meeting to extend the exemption for Veterans who rendered military service to the United States during the “Cold War”.   A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson to approve Local Law No. 1 of 2018.  A roll call vote was held: Councilman Desmond, Councilwoman Brownson, Councilman Hempel, Councilman Gildersleeve and Supervisor Staats all voting in the affirmative. So Carried. A copy will be provided to the Director of Real Property, Clermont’s Assessor and the Secretary of State.
• FINANCIAL REVIEW: Supervisor Staats reported that the sales tax received so far this year is favorable and he believes we will be about 6% to 7% above budgeted amount.  The total unexpended amount in the General fund is $35,444, the revenues are about $31,000 in the positive once the sales tax and mortgage tax is received which puts us way over the budget. In the Highway fund the unexpended amount is $28,487 and the revenues will be about $22,942 in the positive.General: $380,204.00 starting fund balances and at years end we reduced our fund balance by about $55,000.00.

  Highway: The starting fund balance was $164,857.82 and the ending balance $195,266.66 but that was because $25,000 was transferred out of his truck fund.

             The Supervisor is very happy with the balances this year.

• The audit review of the books of the Supervisor, Town Clerk, Tax Collector and Justices will be     held on Saturday, January 13^th at 10:00 AM.  The board will also review the Town policies.   

  SUPERVISORS REPORT:

• Mary and Daniel Howard made a $1,000 donation to the park.  They are hoping to make a $5,000 donation in 2018.  They would like this to be a matching type donation for the park. She will match any donation received up to $5,000.00.  We will be looking for volunteers to work on this to seek donations for the park.  Supervisor Staats thanked Mary Howard for the session she taught.
• Supervisor Staats thanked the Highway employees for working over the Christmas Holiday plowing and keeping the roads safe.
•  There was an article on line in the Register Star that Supervisor Staats was the only Supervisor to vote no on the County Budget because they raised the taxes.  It has been placed on the Town website. 

  ABSTRACTS:

• A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson to approve Highway abstract #1, voucher #1, in the amount of $3,947.56, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve General Abstract #1, vouchers #1-13 in the amount of $17,833.96, seconded by Councilman Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.   

  PUBLIC COMMENTS:

  None

   

  A motion was made to adjourn by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Hempel at 7:55 P.M.  All in favor.  So carried.

   

  Respectfully submitted,

   

   

   

  Mary Helen Shannon, RMC

  Town Clerk