Resources & Documents
Canceled: Zoning Board of Appeals – November 2018
There was no Zoning Board meeting in November.
Fire Commissioners – November 2018
CLERMONT FIRE DISTRICT
NOVEMBER 19, 2018
The Clermont Fire Commissioners held their regular meeting on Monday, November 19, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those present were Commissioner Susan Rifenburgh, Commissioner Ronald Rifenburgh, Commissioner Larry Saulpaugh, Commissioner Raymond Bauer and Commissioner Ronald Miller.
Also present was Treasurer Denise Fiore, Chief Lloyd Kukon, Captain Les Coon and Robert Desmond.
Chairwoman Rifenburgh opened the meeting with the salute to the flag.
MINUTES: A motion was made by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Miller to accept the October minutes as written. All in favor. So carried.
TREASURERS REPORT:
RE: October 2018
Total Amount of October 2018 Invoices Paid $28,381.13
RE: November 2018
Proposed November 2018 Invoices $ 5,840.02
Paid November 2018 Invoices 182.49
Total $ 6,022.51
Reconciliation of Accounts
The Bank of Greene County Balances to Date
Money Market Checking Balance $ 87,668.95*
*Includes interest paid on 10/31/18/18 in the amount of $7.20
Checking Balance 705.46
Less Outstanding Checks 75.98
Checking Balance to Date 629.48
Money Market & Checking A/C Total $ 88,298.43
Capital Reserve Fund for Fire Equipment $ 29,709.86 (as of 12/31/17)
Interest 12/31/17 – 1/31/18 $ 1.26
Interest 1/31/18 – 2/28/18 1.14
Interest 2/28/18 – 3/31/18 1.26
Interest 3/31/18 – 4/30/18 1.22
Interest 4/30/18 – 5/31/18 1.26
Interest 5/31/18 – 6/30/18 1.22
Interest 6/30/18 – 7/31/18 1.26
Interest 7/31/18 – 8/31/18 1.26
Interest 8/31/18 – 9/30/18 1.22
Interest 9/30/18 – 10/31/18 2.44
Total $ 29,723.40
Capital Reserve Fund for Constr. & Improvement $ 33,645.61 (as of 12/31/17)
Interest 12/31/17 – 1/31/18 1.43
Interest 1/31/18 – 2/28/18 1.29
Interest 2/28/18 – 3/31/18 1.43
Interest 3/31/18 – 4/30/18 1.38
Interest 4/30 /18 – 5/31/18 1.43
Interest 5/31/18 – 6/30/18 1.38
Interest 6/30/18 – 7/31/18 1.43
Interest 7/31/18 – 8/31/18 1.43
Interest 8/31/18 – 9/30/18 1.38
Interest 9/30/18 – 10/31/18 2.77
Total $ 33,660.96
Motion to accept the Treasurer’s report by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.
CORRESPONDENCE:
- RBC Wealth Managemenet statement for October – $381779.43
- Physical for Joshua Williams – a copy will be added to the cancer insurance file.
- Travel Policy has been updated.
- Grant contract has been submitted.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS: Commissioners Bauer and Saulpaugh
No report.
INSURANCE: Commissioners Ronald Rifenburgh and Ronald Miller
No report
FIRE EQUIPMENT: Commissioners Bauer and Saulpaugh
No report
LOSAP: All Commissioners
Commissioner R. Rifenburgh stated that anyone holding an office, and not doing their job, does not have to be given the extra LOSAP points for holding that position.
Asked that the Chief give in the records for the year for the LOSAP points.
POLICIES: All Commissioners
- TRAVEL POLICY: This policy has been updated.
- PUBLIC MEETINGS POLICY: The Commissioners would like a policy on public comment at meetings and hearing typed up by the Secretary.
OLD BUSINESS:
- TRUCK PURCHASE: Two resolutions have been prepared by the attorney for the purchase of the new truck:RESOLUTION #23 OF 2018: Bond Resolution dated November 19, 2018 – The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Ronald Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Ronald Miller, to wit:
A resolution authorizing the acquisition of a pumper tanker truck at an estimated maximum cost of $420,000 with a period of probably usefulness of 20 years; authorizing the issuance of serial bonds of the Clermont Fire District, in the Town of Clermont, Columbia County, New York in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $395,000 pursuant to the local finance law to finance a portion of such costs, with the balance to be paid from the Fire District’s Capital reserve for Fire Equipment; and delegating certain powers in connection therewith to the Fire District Treasurer.
The adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly put to a vote on a roll call vote, which resulted as follows:
Chair Susan Rifenburgh – Voting Aye
Commissioner Raymond Bauer – Voting Aye
Commissioner Ronald Rifenburgh – Voting Aye
Commissioner Ronald Miller – Voting Aye
Commissioner Laurence Saulpaugh – Voting Aye
The forgoing resolution was thereupon declared duly adopted.
RESOLUTION #24 OF 2018: The following resolution was offered by Commissioner Laurence Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Raymond Bauer, to wit;
RESOLUTION DATED NOVEMBER 19, 2018
A resolution calling for a Special Election for the purpose of considering a proposition for the approval of a bond resolution adopted on November 19, 2018 by the Clermont Fire District authorizing the acquisition of a Pumper Tanker Truck at an estimated maximum cost of $420,000, the issuance of serial bonds in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $395,000 and the expenditure of up to $25,000 from the Capital Reserve for Fire Equipment.
The adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly put to a vote on a roll call, which resulted as follows:
Chair Susan Rifenburgh – Voting Aye
Commissioner Raymond Bauer – Voting Aye
Commissioner Ronald Rifenburgh – Voting Aye
Commissioner Ronald Miller – Voting Aye
Commissioner Laurence Saulpaugh – Voting Aye
The forgoing resolution was thereupon declared duly adopted.
Bids are expected to be returned and opened by December 17th on or before 7:00 P.M. but not awarded until after the election. The special election will be held on Tuesday, January 15, 2019.
- JANITORIAL SERVICES: The Commissioners should decide on what to pay forjanitorial services at Station #1 and #2 (the bay area). It should probably be a flat rate. There should be a break down for each station and how often it needs to be done.
- The line striping in the bay at Station #2 needs to be done to make it easier to see when backing the truck in.
- CANCER POLICY: Chairwoman Rifenburgh has been in contact with County about insurance and will be contacted with further details.
NEW BUSINESS:
- File Cabinet: Discussed file cabinet which was damaged and who should purchase a new one, the town or the district.
CHIEFS REPORT:
- AIR COMPRESSOR TEST: The test showed 50 hours of run time before filters need to be changed. He will be back in six months to check again and run air test.
- MES: Would like to purchase face wipes for SCBA gear – 300 for $299.00. A motion was made by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer to purchase face wipe for $299.00. All in favor. So carried.
- CO METER: The CO meter will be shipped out to be calibrated. Priced out CO meters with MES. They have one that lasts 2 years for $169.00 and one that last four years with a 2-year kit for $273.00. A motion was made by Commissioner Saulpaugh to purchase the four-year meter, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.
- STATION 1 AND STATION 2 have been cleaned and pressure washed.
- HOSE TEST: Will be done in 2019.
- OSHA CLASSES: The courses will start in January.
- THERMAL IMAGING CAMERA: The camera is charging.
There were eight calls in October as follows:
10/7/18 – Wires down – 760 Woods Road
10/14/18 – Mutual Aid (Ancram) Route 82 Millerhurst Farm
10/19/18 – Rescue Assist (Injured Hunter) 284 Pleasantvale Road
10/19/18 – Alarm Activation – 751 Route 9G – Call turned over to Germantown, units out of service at previous call.
10/21/18 – Alarm Activation – 104 Mill Road
10/22/18 – CO check – 117 Cemetery Road
10/22/18 – CO alarm activation – 26 Legrand Avenue
10/27/18 – AAPI – Lasher Road and Route 9
Monthly Drills/Work Details
10/11/18 – Interior Air pack drill – 5 firefighters
10/13/18 – Cancer Benefit – 2 fire fighters
10/22/18 – Air Pack Training – 3 firefighters
10/29/18 – Drill/Chimney Fires/Ladder Operations – 5 firefighters
The Chief has scheduled a drill with Milan on December 18th. Discussed where the drill should be and the Chief has the final say on drills, etc. Commissioner R. Rifenburgh thinks that for the point system the drills should be held in our district.
A course will be offered in Syracuse in June on Aggressive Interior Fire Attack for members of the NYS Fire Chiefs Association for $335.00 each, and non-members for $385.00 each.
A motion was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Saulpaugh for Captain Les Coon and First Assistant Chief Collin Brown to attend in June in Syracuse.
There will also be a class on Advaned Thermal Imaging being held in Syracuse.
A motion was made to pay the bills by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh with the exception of the full fire department bill for the banquet. We pay up to $1500 for the banquet. Seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.
FUEL USE: Used 26 gals.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Bob asked about drills out of area and if they count towards points. They do.
Captain Coon asked if addresses of Officers can be removed from the District website. They will be as it is not necessary that they be on there.
A motion was made to adjourn by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer at 9:00 P.M. All in favor. So carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Helen Shannon, Secretary
Clermont Fire District
Planning Board – November 2018
CLERMONT PLANNING BOARD
November 14, 2018
The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, November 14, 2018 at 7:30 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Larry Saulpaugh, Jennifer Phillips, Nathan Hempel, Mary Howard, Tom Jantzen and Clayton Andrus. Others present were George Schmitt, Engineer for the Town, Matthew Griesemer, Attorney for the Town.
After review of the October 10, 2018 minutes, a motion was made by Mary Howard, and seconded by Clayton Andrus, to accept the minutes. All in favor. So carried.
Motion to close the regular meeting was made by Tom Jantzen, seconded by Nathan Hempel. All in favor. So carried. Motion was made by Clayton Andrus, seconded by Jennifer Philips, to open the Public Hearing for Stony Creek Farm. All in favor. So carried.
Stony Creek Farm, 70 Moore Road, Tax ID# 191.-2-87.11, represented by Scott Stevens of Kasselman Solar regarding installation of a ground mounted solar array. It was explained there will be 2 arrays for 28 and 24 panels. Creating a total of 54 panels. There was opposing comments from the audience. Discussion was held regarding the natural screening and relaxing it as needed in the future.
Motion to close the Public Hearing was made by Tom Jantzen, seconded by Clayton Andrus. All in favor. So carried. Motion to reopen the regular meeting was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Nathan Hempel. All in favor. So carried.
SEQRA was read by Town Attorney, Matthew Griesemer, who recommended to declare a negative impact. Motion was made by Mary Howard, seconded by Tom Jantzen, to declare a negative impact. All in favor. So carried.
Motion was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Tom Jantzen, to approve the Stony Creek Farm application, conditional on approval by the Clermont ZBA, approval by Columbia County Planning Board and approval of additional wording regarding replacement of current natural screening should it need to be replaced in the future. Approval is also conditional on receiving copies of signature cards from mailings to adjacent property owners for the ZBA Public Hearing. All in favor. So carried.
Faye Werner, 382 Nevis Road, Tax ID# 191.1-1-19.11, represented by Robert McCarthy, Jr. and Amanda M. McCarthy seeking a Minor Subdivision of 3 acres, increasing the McCarthy property from 2 acres to 5 acres. Motion to close the regular meeting was made by Tom Jantzen, seconded by Jennifer Phillips. All in favor. So carried. Motion to open the Public Hearing was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Tom Jantzen. All in favor. So carried. After review and discussion of the site plan, motion was made to close the Public Hearing by Nathan Hempel, seconded by Clayton Andrus. All in favor. So carried. Motion to reopen the regular meeting was made by Clayton Andrus, seconded by Tom Jantzen. All in favor. So carried.
SEQRA was read by Town Attorney, Matthew Griesemer, with his recommendation of no negative impact. Motion to declare no negative impact was made by Mary Howard, seconded by Tom Jantzen. All in favor. So carried.
Motion was made by Tom Jantzen, seconded by Jennifer Phillips, to approve the application. All in favor. So carried.
Billy Cole, 3541 Route 9G, Tax ID# 190.-1-02, came before the Planning Board asking to have clarification of the need for a storm water plan for the previously proposed project of storage units. Town Engineer, George Schmitt and Town Attorney, Matthew Griesemer confirmed the NY State law requires a storm water plan if an acre or more is disturbed.
Motion to adjourn was made by Mary Howard and seconded by Jennifer Phillips. All in favor. So carried. The meeting adjourned at 8:50pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Desiree M. Webber, Secretary
Town Board – November 2018
CLERMONT TOWN BOARD
NOVEMBER 5, 2018
The Clermont Town Board held a public hearing on the 2019 Budget on Monday, November 5, 2018 at 6:45 P.M. prior to the 7:00 P.M. regular town board meeting at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson, Councilman Evan Hempel and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve. Councilman Robert Desmond was absent. There were nine residents present.
BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING
Supervisor Staats opened the public hearing on the 2019 budget. There will be no tax increase as far as town taxes go. The taxable rate for the town will go down, so the tax rate per $1000 of assessment has gone down. There were some salary increases in the highway department, our only full-time employees, who will receive a 2% increase. Our Code enforcement officer will receive an increase of $1500.00. There are some purchases which have been budgeted for: a new one ton dump truck for $75,000 and a mower head for the tractor for $11,000 from the equipment reserve fund. Also plans to increase the equipment fund contribution to $45,000, which is put in at the end of the year. Funds from the Park reserve of $10,000 made up of donations was entered into the Park and Recreation fees and Building Repairs was increased by $20500 for hail damage repairs for which we received the insurance money. This work will be done next year. The total expenditures are $756,067.00 and the amount to be raised by taxes is $104,580.00, the same as last year. The sales tax revenue helps to offset what we ask for in the budget. There were no comments from the public.
The public hearing was closed at 6:55 P.M.
REGULAR MEETING
The regular meeting of the Town Board was opened with the salute to the flag.
A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve to move into executive session to discuss possible litigation at 7:05 P.M., seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.
A motion was made to come out of executive session by Councilman Gildersleeve at 7:15 PM, seconded by Councilman Hempel.
Supervisor Staats did read a statement regarding last months meeting and the public comments during the meeting. He does usually allow public comment during the meeting because he values the public’s input but he does not want another meeting like last month. He is requesting that all comments be held until the public comment period at the end of the meeting. If there is pertinent information on a subject being discussed the Supervisor may call upon the individual for comments. He is asking for everyone’s compliance.
Mary Howard, Chair of the Park committee introduced Amy Parella who showed slides of proposed low growing native plants for the entrance to the Park off Route 9. There were suggestions to use cranberry cotoneaster or fragrant sumac. She finds that the fragrant sumac does grow in height and would have to be pruned back periodically. These are salt tolerant, low growing plantings that she would suggest using, such as dwarf switchgrass, dwarf black eyed Susan, Cranberry, dwarf crabapple, daffodils could also be used and mulched in very well. She also showed a variation of signs which could be used to draw attention to the park. She will price out signs, plants and mulch.
Patrizio Gonzalez and family, who live and work across from the town hall came to thank the Town Board for the soccer field. It is much appreciated by their friends and neighbors, as many children, including their own enjoy playing soccer.
MINUTES: The minutes of the October 1st meeting were reviewed and a motion to accept made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.
CORRESPONDENCE:
- TOWN CLERK’S REPORT: The Town Clerk read the report for October and presented a check for the General fund in the amount of $$4,710.44.
- There will be a Veterans Day Lunch at Questar III on Thursday, November 8, 2018, Route 66, Greenport.
- Office for the Aging – Elder Express newsletter for October – December
- Budget and Revenue reports through October 31st.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
- Councilwoman Brownson commented on the proposed new website and how much more there is to it.
- Councilman Hempel has been working on the website with the committee and are moving content to the new site. He feels that there may be a link to the new website as early as next month.
- Councilman Brownson reported that the Country Seats Tour did use the Community House on October 13th and had over 100 people stopping in for their tour maps of the historic homes in the area.
OLD BUSINESS:
- HAIL DAMAGE: The hail storm of May 15th did damage to the Community House, Town Hall and additional damage was found to the roof on the back of the highway garage. In addition, Councilman Hempel noticed a broken pain of glass on the shed behind the garage. We have received payment on some of the damage but are waiting to hear from the adjuster on additional damage.
- DEC INVOICE: An additional invoice was received from DEC for the remediation to the Hettling Park land and has been forwarded to our town engineer. He has suggested to send it to our town attorney also. We have not heard back yet from our attorney. The Supervisor does not believe that this is a valid invoice.
- VETERANS MONUMENT DEDICATION: The American Legion will present a flag and preside at the dedication ceremony at 1:00 P.M. on Sunday, November 11th in the park on Route 9. All are invited to attend.
- PROPERTY REVALUATION: The Assessor is doing a full reevaluation on all parcels. Data mailers went out on all parcels for any changes to be noted by the homeowner. Reevaluation will be done in November and December and this process will be completed for March 1st.
- PARK COMMITTEE:
Supervisor Staat has put together an outline for the Park committee to use. Councilman Desmond has decided to remove himself from the committee and Mary Howard will take over the Chair spot. A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve to use this as an outline for the committee, Councilman Hempel seconded. All in favor. So carried. Councilwoman Brownson asked how often and when the committee meets. Mary Howard responded that they have been meeting monthly, but missed a few months. Phyllis Heiko pointed out that everyone has certain vegetation (trees or flowers) that they like, however, they may not be good growing. Supervisor Staats did thank all those that are involved.
NEW BUSINESS:
- The Planning Board has requested a clarification between a minor subdivision and a lot line adjustment in the zoning law. This will be referred to our attorney.
- The Zoning Board of Appeals has requested a statement on the website encouraging applicants to attend application night to be better prepared when submitting their applications. A statement will be added to the website.
- PARK AND RECREATION DONATION: Supervisor Staats thanked Mary Howard and husband for a matching donation of $4000.00 towards the park. Mr. and Mrs. Paul Clemente are donating a flag pole and flag for the park.
- BUDGET: The public hearing was held prior to this meeting on the 2019 preliminary budget. A motion has been made to adopt the 2019 budget by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Hempel. All in favor. So carried.
- SALES TAX REVENUE: Received $108,536.00 for this quarter sales tax. This is more than 3% from last year.
- DEVEREAUX FOUNDATION: Devereaux is proposing a group home to be located on Cemetery Road. These properties come off the tax rolls when used for homes for the disabled. Currently there are six homes in Clermont. We have challenged this before so the Supervisor would like to have our attorney file a challenge. A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson to have the attorney file a challenge for a hearing. All in favor. So carried.
SUPERVISORS REPORT:
- At last month’s meeting, the Board was asked if anything could be done about speeding on Buckwheat Bridge Road. Supervisor Staats has talked to the Sheriff and patrols have been increased. They will also put up a speed sign. He will follow up on this with the Sheriff.
- The Supervisor thanked the park committee, the website committee and the highway department for the work that they do and the Election Inspectors.
- The soccer field is being used at this time and the Supervisor is sure that it will be used. He also thanked those that have donated, The Howards, $4000; Morris Associates, $1000; Fingar Insurance, $1000; Freeman-Howard, $500; Southern Columbia Soccer league, $1000.
ABSTRACTS:
- A motion was made to approve General Prepaid abstract #11, vouchers #275-278 in the amount of $542.20 by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Hempel. All in favor. So carried
- A motion was made to approve General abstract #11, vouchers #279-307 in the amount of $5,919.90 by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Hempel. All in favor. So carried.
- A motion was made to approve Highway abstract #11, vouchers #102 – 113 in the amount of $9,214.26 by Councilman Hempel, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Anthony Miserendino asked about liability insurance for the parks. The Leagues provide riders through their insurance. We also have insurance.
A motion was made to adjourn by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson at 8:15 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Helen Shannon, RMC
Town Clerk
Zoning Board of Appeals – October 2018
Clermont Zoning Board of Appeals
1795 Route 9
Germantown, New York 12526
October 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.
Hank Himelright asked if anyone had any additions, corrections or omissions to the minutes of the last meeting, September 26, 2018. A motion to accept the minutes with minor correction was made by Don Van Wagner, seconded by Luke Kumburis. All in favor. So carried.
There will be no meeting in November. The next meeting will be the third Wednesday, on December 19, 2018, instead of the forth Wednesday.
Available classes for the remaining hours needed by the Board members was discussed.
Stony Creek Farm, 70 Moore Road, Tax ID# 191.-2-87.11, Motion to close the regular meeting was made by John Rusconi, seconded by Pete Cichetti. Motion to open the Public hearing was made by Luke Kumburis, seconded by Don Van Wagner. Motion was made by Don Van Wagner, due to the absence of the representative for Stony Creek Farm, Scott Stevens of Kasselman Solar, the Public Hearing will continue until the next meeting of the ZBA, which will be December 19, 2018. Seconded by Luke Kumburis. All in favor. So carried. Motion to return to the regular meeting was made by Pete Cichetti, seconded by Luke Kumburis. All in favor. So carried.
Pete Cichetti discussed the need to have applicants come to Application Night to be better informed of the needed steps to take in preparing the application. A motion was made by John Rusconi to submit the following statement to the Clermont Town Board, seconded by Pete Cichetti. All in favor. So carried.
“The ZBA makes a recommendation for a statement on the
website encouraging potential applicants to attend Application
Night so they will be better prepared for coming before the ZBA
and submitting their applications.”
Motion was made to adjourn by Don Van Wagner, seconded by John Rusconi. The meeting closed at 8:20pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Desiree M. Webber, Secretary
Fire Commissioners – October 2018
CLERMONT FIRE COMMISSIONERS
OCTOBER 16, 2018
The Clermont Fire Commissioners held their regular meeting and public hearing on the 2019 Budget on October 16, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. Those present were Chairwoman Susan Rifenburgh, Commissioner Laurence Saulpaugh, Commissioner Ronald Miller, Commissioner Raymond Bauer and Commissioner Ronald Rifenburgh. Also present were Chief Lloyd Kukon, Treasurer Denise Fiore and Robert Desmond.
Chairwoman opened the public hearing with the salute to the flag.
The public hearing was opened for the 2019 Budget. The total proposed appropriations is $174,377.00, estimated unexpended balance from 2018 is $10,000, and the amount to be raised by taxes is $164,377.00. There were no comments from any Commissioner or anyone present. A motion was made to accept the budget as submitted by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried. The hearing was closed.
The regular meeting was opened.
MINUTES: A correction to the minutes on page 39 to change Councilman to Commissioner was noted by Commissioner Bauer. A motion was made to approve the minutes with correction by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.
October 16, 2018 Fire Commissioners’ Treasurer’s Report
RE: September 2018
Total Amount of September 2018 Invoices Paid $10,493.57*
Added: $900 (Grantgenies), $2000 (CFCo) left off abstract, $2.73 (Les Coons)
Deducted: $97.63 (National Grid) previously paid
*Revised September 2018 Abstract attached
RE: October 2018
Proposed October 2018 Invoices $ 1,825.69
Paid October 2018 Invoices $26,375.44
Total $28,201.13
Reconciliation of Accounts
The Bank of Greene County Balances to Date
Money Market Checking Balance $ 112,661.75*
*Includes interest paid on 9/30/18 in the amount of $24.53
Checking Balance 5,251.06
Plus Deposit (10/1/18) 25,000.00
Less Outstanding Checks 27,317.58
Checking Balance to Date 2,933.48
Money Market & Checking A/C Total $ 115,595.23
Capital Reserve Fund for Fire Equipment $ 29,709.86 (as of 12/31/17)
Interest 12/31/17 – 1/31/18 $ 1.26
Interest 1/31/18 – 2/28/18 1.14
Interest 2/28/18 – 3/31/18 1.26
Interest 3/31/18 – 4/30/18 1.22
Interest 4/30/18 – 5/31/18 1.26
Interest 5/31/18 – 6/30/18 1.22
Interest 6/30/18 – 7/31/18 1.26
Interest 7/31/18 – 8/31/18 1.26
Interest 8/31/18 – 9/30/18 1.22
Total $ 29,720.96
Capital Reserve Fund for Constr. & Improvement $ 33,645.61 (as of 12/31/17)
Interest 12/31/17 – 1/31/18 1.43
Interest 1/31/18 – 2/28/18 1.29
Interest 2/28/18 – 3/31/18 1.43
Interest 3/31/18 – 4/30/18 1.38
Interest 4/30 /18 – 5/31/18 1.43
Interest 5/31/18 – 6/30/18 1.38
Interest 6/30/18 – 7/31/18 1.43
Interest 7/31/18 – 8/31/18 1.43
Interest 8/31/18 – 9/30/18 1.38
Total $ 33,658.19
A motion was made to accept the Treasurer’s report by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.
CORRESPONDENCE:
- Fire District Affairs for October – November
- RBC Wealth Management for September – $397,657.80
- Penflex – Service Fee Agreement for 2018=2019 for Defined Benefit Plan and Defined Contribution Plan to be signed and returned. Opting out of audit package.
- Invoice for Joshua Williams physical. Did not receive the physical, Chairwoman Rifenburgh will contact the Albany Med.
- Certificate of Liability for Darryl Millus for roof work.
- Information from vendors on Cancer Care Policies.
- Chairwoman Rifenburgh reported that Columbia Memorial Hospital will be doing the physicals and not charging for them starting in 2019. Chairwoman Rifenburgh will be putting together a package with the application for new members.
- Milan Volunteer Fire Department will try to attend next month with information requested. They did thank the Commissioners for the increase for 2019.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS: Commissioners Bauer and Commissioner Saulpaugh
- Commissioner Bauer reported that Darryl Millus painted the roof at Station #1, the light was installed and the parking lot apron was paved by Clermont and Livingston Highway departments. The pressure washer was also installed at Station #2.
INSURANCE: Commissioners R. Rifenburgh and Commissioner Miller
No report.
FIRE EQUIPMENT: Commissioners Bauer and Commissioner Saulpaugh
No Report.
LOSAP: All Commissioners
No report.
Laws and policies: All Commissioners
No report.
OLD BUSINESS:
- Cleaning Bays at Station #2: No set amount for a cleaner was set in the budget but the budget line for buildings was increased.
- GRANT: Captain Coon is working with the grant writer. In the future, we should check with Linda McLean who has written grants for us in the past and not charged. We are being charged a retainer fee of $900.00 and the balance when the grant is submitted. The request will be for 20 sets of gear at $75,753.00. The districts share of 5% would be $3,787.65. The grant writer would also like to add the tanker to the grant. The estimated cost would be up to $400,000.00 for the truck.
- The secretary and Chairwoman did get the names of those that are eligible for the Cancer Benefit Plan and there are only two at this time. One other firefighter may have FIT paperwork from another company, which he would have to get.
NEW BUSINESS:
- We will be getting new file cabinets from the town to replace the file which fell over.
- TRUCK RESERVE: We are budgeting $30,000 every year for a new truck. Anything left in that budget line does transfer at the beginning of the year. Commissioner R. Rifenburgh asked what the unexpended balance is at this time. Treasurer Fiore has $12,862.00 for the balance. Commissioner Rifenburgh suggested taking this from 2017 and move to construction account for the paving of Station #1 entrance. A motion was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.
CHIEFS REPORT:
There were 12 calls in September:
- 9/6/18 – Mutual Aid Livingston Route 9/Blue Stores
- 9/6/18 – Tree in Roadway – Cedar Hill Road
- 9/6/18 – Tree in Roadway – Route 6 and Hogtrough Road
- 9/10/18 – Alarm Activation – 694 Church Avenue
- 9/11/18 – Tree on wires – 129 Nevis Road
- 9/12/18 – Alarm Activation – 104 Mill Road
- 9/13/18 – Alarm Activation – 104 Mill Road
- 9/14/18 – Mutual Aid Tivoli – relocate to Tivoli
- 9/15/18 – Mutual aid Germantown – Set up landing zone
- 9/15/18 – Mutual aid Germantown – Standby in Germantown
- 9/24/18 – CO detector activation – 134 Nevis Road
- 9/30/18 – Alarm activation – 694 Church Avenue
Monthly Drill/Work Details
9/5/18 – Steak Bake – 7 firefighters
9/7/18 – Steak Bake – 9 firefighters
9/8/18 – Steak Bake – 13 firefighters
9/23/18 – Drill/Training – Germantown – 4 firefighters attended
9/24/18 – Bard College Tour/training/Mutual aid information
9/24/18 – Extrication Drill – 14 firefighters
9/30/18 – Mutual aid drill – Carmelite Sisters – 4 firefighters
The Chief reported on the following topics:
- Fire alarm law and distribution sheets are available and need to be distributed as required on the forms.
- Cleaned the truck with the new pressure washer which worked well.
- Carmelite Sisters – will develop a plan for the building.
- Bard College – 168 buildings and most of the dormitories fall into Tivoli’s Fire District so Clermont needs to be familiar with that for mutual aid.
- The members also went to the Davidson estate on Woods Road. Other river estates should be reviewed.
- Battalion Meeting was held.
- SCBA testing will be done on 11/14 at 10:30 AM. MES will be doing tests on air quality for $150.00. It was last serviced in March and filled 10 bottles. It will be serviced in May or June of next year.
- The company was called mutual aid on Sunday, October 15 to Ancram for a large barn fire.
Other discussion and corrective action which needs to be addressed by the Chief and Officers:
6010 – Mini – Thermal imaging camera had dead batteries two months in a row.
6012 – International – The truck was not checked for three months. The Lt’s were supposed to check these trucks but they don’t seem to be doing their job.
The Banquet is on Saturday, November 3 at 6 PM at Churchtown Fire House. The Commissioners, Treasurer and Secretary are invited to attend.
Fuel Report:
August – 55.1 gallons used, 32 ½ inches
September – 56.2 gallons used, 28 ¾ inches
Additional payment to October proposed invoices of $180.00 for physical to Albany Medical. Motion made by Commissioner Saulpaugh, seconded by Commissioner Miller. All in favor. So carried.
PUBLIC COMMENTS: Bob asked who is doing the physicals. Currently it is Albany Med. CMH feels that the first responders do a lot for the county and want to do this for them for free. He also asked what the cost of the paving. If done by an outside source would be about $25,000 or $28,000.00.
The changes which are made to the Truck specs are:
DECK GUN: Truck height cannot exceed 10’4 inches when loaded ( 124 inches ).
ROOF LADDER: Changed to a 16 foot ladder.
COMPARTMENTS: Eliminated one compartments for suction hose. The Commissioners agreed to three ten foot lengths of suction hose which eliminates a compartment.
INSPECTION TRIP: This was put in as an option rather than in specifications. There is an app where you can go and see everything that is being done to the truck.
This will be the final specifications that will go out to bid.
A motion was made that once approved by the attorney that the secretary can proceed with the process of advertising the bid for the truck by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made to adjourn by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer at 9:15 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Helen Shannon
Fire District Secretary
Town Board – October 2018
CLERMONT TOWN BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2018
The Clermont Town Board held their monthly meeting on Monday, October 1, 2018 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson, Councilman Evan Hempel and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve. There were twelve residents present.
Supervisor Staats opened the meeting with the salute to the flag
MINUTES: Councilwoman Brownson did note two corrections to the September 4th meeting. The time of the meeting on the first page should be 7:00 P.M. and at the top of third page should be pressure ‘washer’. A motion was made by Councilman Desmond and seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve to accept the minutes with corrections. All in favor. So carried.
TOWN CLERK’S REPORT: The Town Clerk presented the Supervisor with a check for the General Fund in the amount of $294.01 and for Trust & Agency for $800.00.
CORRESPONDENCE:
- The Columbia County Office of the Aging is holding public hearings on the Annual Implementation Plan on October 24 in Valatie and October 25 in Copake.
- Website: There was no comment.
PARK COMMITTEE: Supervisor Staats welcomed the Park committee members. Mary Howard, Co-chair of the committee, presented the results of the online survey on the park. There were 727 postcards successfully delivered and 118 surveys completed, a 16% response rate. Most that answered were in the age group 56 – 65 and have lived here for at least 25 years with most being full time residents. Walking trails, bathrooms, benches and pavilion/shade structure seemed to come out as top priority for the park. There was some discussion by those present who said they did not receive a postcard, but they were offered the opportunity to complete the survey now. There were some that questioned why the board went ahead with the soccer field when the survey was not done and Supervisor Staats explained that this has been discussed at prior meetings and planned for a long time and is something that is needed for the youth of the community. Supervisor Staats will put together a plan of what the board is looking for from the committee.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
- VETERANS MEMORIAL: Councilman Desmond said that a spot has been picked for the Veterans memorial on the hill behind the cemetery. It will be visible from the parking area. The budget for the monument is $2,260.00. Hopefully, we can get things done through donations and grant money. The board has not made a decision on the flag pole yet but the cost is minimal.
- Website: Councilman Hempel reported that there has been a good bit of progress, and Ellen Earle has been responsible for the work that has been done. We are nearing the transition period and will be sharing the link to the board.
- RECYCLING: Councilman Gildersleeve has been working with the Town Clerk on recycling electronics that are outdated.
- ELECTION DAY DINNER: Councilwoman Brownson reported that the Election Day Dinner will be held from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the Community House on Election Day.
- Supervisor Staats handed out the budget and revenue reports for September.
OLD BUSINESS:
- HAIL DAMAGE: On May 15, 2018 a hail storm moved through town and did damage to the Community House, Town Hall and a shed behind the highway garage. The damage to the shed was just noticed and an adjuster will be coming out to inspect that building.
- DEC INVOICE: An invoice has been received for additional expenses for the remediation of the twenty acres north of the town hall. We are not committing to paying this invoice. We have been looking at these charges and have our town engineer looking at these also. As soon as our engineer completes his review we will set up a meeting with DEC.
NEW BUSINESS:
- PARK DONATIONS: Donations have been received to pay for the soccer goals in the park. To date we have received $4,000 which more than covers the cost of the goals. The donations were as follows: Southern Columbia Soccer League, $1,000; Morris Associates Engineers, $1,000; Fingar Insurance, $1,000; Freeman-Howard Attorneys, $500.00; Mary Helen and Jim Shannon, $500.
- REVALUATION: Supervisor Staats met with NYS Office of Real Property, Columbia County Real Property and our Assessor Cheryl Kaszluga. The State lowered our valuation numbers down to 91% from 100%. In order to rectify this, we must have a full revaluation done. We have to enter into an agreement with our Assessor. Data mailers will be mailed out to each household and reviewed by the Assessor and then the County will complete the valuation. There is a fee for the County and we have provided for this in the 2019 budget. This all has to be completed and sent to the state by February.
Resolution #43 of 2018 was passed on a motion made by Councilman Robert Desmond and seconded by Councilman Evan Hempel to approve the resolution to enter into an agreement with Assessor Cheryl Kaszluga to perform the data collection for 2019. All in favor. So carried.
- 2019 BUDGET: The amount to be collected for taxes is the same as last year’s budget. The Highway Superintendent and two full time employees were given a 2% raise. The Code Enforcement Officer was increased from $7500 to $9000.00. In the buildings account there was an increase of $20,500 for the repair to the buildings from the hail damage but this is offset by the insurance check received. Not having a plan, the Parks account was increased to $10,000 from the Parks Reserve. The Highway Equipment budget was increased by $86,000 for a dual wheel dump truck at $75,000 and a mower head for mowing at $11,000. The Highway equipment reserve fund for purchase of equipment was increased to $45,000. A copy of the preliminary budget will be available at the town hall during regular business hours.
A motion was made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson to proceed with the preliminary budget hearing Monday, November 5 at 6:45 P.M. All in favor. So carried.
SUPERVISORS REPORT:
- ELECTION DAY DINNER: The ham dinner will be held at the Community House from 5 PM to 7 PM on Election Day.
- The Supervisor also thanked all those that are involved with the Park and the Highway Department.
- CORN HOLE TOURNAMENT: The Corn Hole Tournament was held at Tousey’s Tin Barn and the Village Green did the food preparation with the money raised going for the kitchen in the Community House.
ABSTRACTS:
A motion was made by Councilman Desmond to approve General abstract #10A, vouchers #258 – 274 in the amount of $3,468.37, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson to approve General abstract #10, Prepaid, vouchers #255-257 in the amount of $198.49, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made by Councilman Hempel to approve Trust & Agency abstract #7, vouchers #13 – 14 in the amount of $319.55, seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve Highway abstract #10, vouchers #93-101 in the amount of $6,619.97, seconded by Councilman Hempel. All in favor. So carried.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Paul Clemente asked if anything can be done about the speeding on Buckwheat Bridge Road. Supervisor Staats will ask for a sign and patrols to see if that will help.
Phyllis Heiko thanked the Board for listening to the Park Committee.
A motion was made to move into executive session at 9:05 P.M. to discuss contract negotiations by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made to come out of executive session at 9:25 P.M. by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Hempel. All in favor. So carried.
A motion was made to adjourn at 9:25 P.M. by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Hempel. All in favor.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Helen Shannon, RMC
Town Clerk
Zoning Board of Appeals – September 2018
Clermont Zoning Board of Appeals
1795 Route 9
Germantown, New York 12526
September 26, 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. Also in attendance was the Clermont Planning Board members, Larry Saulpaugh, Ron Miller, Nathan Hemple, Mary Howard, Clayton Andrus, Jennifer Phillips and Tom Jantzen. George Schmitt, Town Engineer, was also present.
Hank Himelright asked if anyone had any additions, corrections or omissions to the minutes of the last meeting, August 2018. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Luke Kumburis, seconded by Pete Cichetti. All in favor. So carried.
Motion to close the regular meeting was made by Luke Kumburis, seconded by Don Van Wagner. Motion to open the Joint Public Hearing was made by Ron Miller, seconded by Mary Howard.
John Surface, 252 Nevis Road, tax ID# 191.1-1-11.11, represented by Jeff Irish from Suncommon. The proposed project is for a ground mount system which will offset consumption of usage on the property. Maximum height will be approximately ten feet, depending on the grade of the land. Shrubs will be added as needed for any additional screening. The question was raised by Beth Crockett regarding the type of bushes vs evergreens. It was agreed evergreens would be installed with inspection to be done by Sam Harkins, Code Enforcement Officer. Three evergreens will be planted with forsythia bushes to be planted in between the trees. Approval is contingent on the screening.
Motion to close the Public Hearing for the ZBA was made by Don Van Wagner, seconded by John Rosconi. All in favor. So carried. Motion to close the Public Hearing for the Planning Board was made by Tom Jantzen,
seconded by Ron Miller. All in favor. So carried. George Schmitt read the SEQRA. Motion to declare a negative impact was made by the ZBA member Luke Kumburis, seconded by Pete Cichetti. Role call was taken for the ZBA: Hank Himelright, Yes; Pete Cichetti, Yes; Don Van Wagner, Yes; John Rosconi, Yes; Luke Kumburis, Yes. All in favor. So carried. Motion to declare a negative impact was made by Planning Board member Tom Jantzen, seconded by Clayton Andrus. All in favor. So carried. Motion to close the meeting for the Planning Board was made by Jennifer Philips, seconded by Mary Howard, at 7:55pm.
Stony Creek Farm, 70 Moore Road, Tax ID# 191.-2-87.11, presented by Scott Stevens of Kasselman Solar. Proposed project is for a ground mount solar array of 52 panels. The height at the back would be 8’. Once the site has been staked, the ZBA will be conducting a site visit. Motion to accept the application was made by Luke Kumburis, seconded by Don Van Wagner. All in favor. So carried. A Public Hearing will be held October 24, 2018.
Motion was made to adjourn by Don Van Wagner, seconded by Pete Cichetti. The meeting closed at 8:20pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Desiree M. Webber, Secretary