Town of Tompkins in New York's Delaware County

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:00 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY. with Tim LaTourette leading in the Flag salute.

Present:
Howard Buttel – Councilperson
Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
Peggy Backus – Councilperson
Brian Albanese – Councilperson
William Layton – Supervisor Absent: Linda Bourn – Deputy Town Clerk

Others:
Ron VanValkenburg – Highway Superintendent
Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper
Absent: Linda Bourn – Deputy Town Clerk

Guests: Tania Backus, Brett French, Henry Lamonte, Mike Cairns

Floor Time:
Henry Lamont was here to talk about the Sewer District Budget. It should be noted that there is a potential issue with lack of funds in the reserve account for out of pocket cost the town sewer district members may occur for items requiring total replacement. Albanese requests Lamonts solution to avoid shortfall in the future.

RESOLUTION # 70-2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
On motion by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Meeting Minutes for November 2025. Vote: All in favor, (abstained Brian Albanese) – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 71-2025 ABSTRACT OF CLAIMS
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for November 2025 as follows:
General Fund: $33,080.64
Highway Fund: $115,478.81.
Fire Tower: $106.22.
Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 72-2025 TOWN CLERKS MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Brian Albanese, it was moved to receive, and place on file the Town Clerks, monthly report for November 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 73-2025 SUPERVISOR MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Tim Latourette, it was moved to approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial reports as of November 2025.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 74-2025 SEWER DISTRICT ABSTRACT & MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve and place on file the Abstract of Claims for November 2025 of the Sewer District in the amount of $452.13.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

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NEW BUSINESS:

OLD BUSINESS:
Union Contract – Ron stated that the highway guys signed the new contract.

Solar Law – Tabled until next meeting.

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HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT REPORT:

• Repairs 2007 & 2016 International trucks
• Hauled 2044 Yards of Grit
• Plowing Roads
• Clearing House- Government inquiries (Abstracts)
• Ron Would like to purchase a plow for 2023. Straight $7,600.00, V-nose $7,900.00.

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SEWER DISRICT:
Bret stated that nobody plowed the sewer district.
Can the Town guys plow it? and shovel what little bit is needed. Ron stated that Bailey would do it.
Flow meter to be calibrated in the month of December.
Bret is scheduling clean outs that need repair.

MOTIONS:
Motion by Howie Buttel to appoint Paul Barthlomew to Board of Assessment Review Effective 10/1/2025 – 9/30/2030, seconded by Tim LaTourette, all in favor, motion carried.

Motion by Brian Albanese for Ron to purchase a V-nose plow at $7,900.00, seconded by Bill Layton, all in favor, motion carried.

Motion by Bill Layton to raise the limit on the credit card from $1,000 to $2,500.00, seconded by Howie Buttel, all in favor, motion carried.

SUPERVISOR:
Motion by Bill Layton to enter executive session at 9:04pm, seconded by Peggy Backus; out of executive session at 9:18pm.

Ag & Market report on dog control officer ok.

Meeting Adjourned 9:27pm. 

Next meeting to be held on January 13, 2026, at 7:00 PM.
__________________________________________
Date: December 30, 2025
Linda Bourn
Town of Tompkins Deputy Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:05 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY. with Peggy Backus leading in the Flag salute.

Present:
Howard Buttel – Councilperson
Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
Peggy Backus – Councilperson
William Layton – Supervisor
Absent: Brian Albanese – Councilperson

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Others:
Ron VanValkenburg – Highway Superintendent
Linda Bourn – Deputy Town Clerk
Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper

Guests: Tania Backus

Budget: Motion to accept final budget of 2026 by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Howie Buttel, all in favor, motion carried.

Floor Time: None

RESOLUTION # 65-2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
On motion by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Meeting Minutes for September 2025. Vote: All in favor, (abstained Peggy Backus) – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 66-2025 ABSTRACT OF CLAIMS
On motion by Peggy Backus, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for October 2025 as follows:
General Fund: $4,905.19
Highway Fund: $73,163.68.
Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 67-2025 TOWN CLERKS MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Peggy Backus, seconded by Tim LaTourette it was moved to receive, and place on file the Town Clerks, monthly report for October 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 68- 2025 SUPERVISOR MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
On motion by Howie Buttel, seconded by Tim Latourette, it was moved to approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial reports as of October 31, 2025.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 69- 2025 SEWER DISTRICT ABSTRACT & MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve and place on file the Abstract of Claims for October 2025 of the Sewer District in the amount of $6,300.74.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

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NEW BUSINESS:
Solar law will be discussed at next meeting.

The board stated that they would like a copy of the minutes emailed to all the board members, Nancy, or anyone that asks for a copy before being approved.

OLD BUSINESS:
Union Contract – Has been signed by all except the highway crew.

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HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT REPORT:
2016 International needed a new clutch.
2020 truck back today for the shop.
2017 motor that we changed needs some gaskets and is leaking fumes in the cab.
Graveling Roads
Changed 5 Pipes
Hauled Grit
Shop has no heat, Mirabito said they would try to get the part and be here on Monday.

SUPERVISOR:

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Motion by Howie Buttel, seconded by Bill Layton to adjourn meeting, all in favor, carried.
Meeting Adjourned 7:49 pm. 

Next meeting to be held on December 9, 2025, at 7:00 PM.
________________________________________
Date: November 10, 2025
Linda Bourn
Town of Tompkins Deputy Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:00 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY. with Howie Buttel leading in the Flag salute.

Present:
Howard Buttel – Councilperson
Brian Albanese – Councilperson (late 7:30)
Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
William Layton – Supervisor
Absent: Peggy Backus – Councilperson

Others:
Ron VanValkenburg – Highway Superintendent
Linda Bourn – Deputy Town Clerk
Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper

Guests: Sam & Tania Backus

Floor Time:
Sam Backus asked if there was any way the town could plow the road for the elderly people, the board said no that is not a town road, and we can’t do that. The residents on that road have been told in the past if they can bring the road up to standards the board would consider taking back. If we do that for that road, then we would be expected to all plow all the non-town roads.

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RESOLUTION # 60-2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
On motion by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Meeting Minutes for September 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 61-2025 ABSTRACT OF CLAIMS
On motion by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for September 2025 as follows:
General Fund: $5,091.45
Highway Fund: $130,853.38.
Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 62-2025 TOWN CLERKS MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to receive, and place on file the Town Clerks, monthly report for September 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 63-2025 SUPERVISOR MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
On motion by Howie Buttel, seconded by Tim LaTourette, it was moved to receive, and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial reports as of September 30, 2025, Dated, 9/30/25.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 64-2025 SEWER DISTRICT ABSTRACT & MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve and place on file the Abstract of Claims for September 2025 of the Sewer District in the amount of $3,306.52.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

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NEW BUSINESS:
Resolution 65 – Motion by Brian Albanese to hire the county to do the Comp Plan, seconded by Howie Buttel, all in favor, carried.

OLD BUSINESS:
Fire Tower – Done for this season. We will be putting $30,000 into a CD, there is around $34,000 in the account.

Walking Trail – Brian and Bill sprayed weed control down of the path.

Subdivisions – County will do the Comp plan for $1,500; we need a resolution to hire them to do this.

Sewer Caps –

Union Contract – Going back and forth with some wording.

ATV – Brian talked to BJ and he is getting a copy of what Walton got from their lawyer.

DEC Hunting License– Linda sent in all the paperwork to get the Clerk reinstated to sell licenses, we will be set up by January 1, 2026.

Dog Letter – We have address labels of all residents ready to go for the letter, but Linda thought due to hunting license sales would we want to do a letter to talk about all the new things including the office hours of new clerk.

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HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT REPORT:
Ditching
Boom Mower
Shimmed Roads
Hauled Gravel
2020 Truck is at Allegiance being repaired; it was leaking coolant.
2007 Truck – Kyle put a motor in
Helped Franklin & Hamden
We didn’t receive any bids for the new pick-up so Ron will go out and see what he can find.

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SUPERVISOR:
Sewer District Reports – Brian said that Chad will service the generators and he will send Bret a message about the sewer caps.
Planning Board – Bill will contact them and let them know we no longer use the Reporter as our paper.
Sam Galley interested in the Code Enforcer job, Brian wants to speak to Nate, can he come to the next meeting.
Motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Bill Layton to adjourn meeting, all in favor, carried.

Regular Meeting Adjourned 8:16 pm. 

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Entered Budget Meeting at 8:17 pm.

Motion by Tim Latourette to approve the Tentative Budget seconded by Howie Buttel, all in favor, carried.

Motion by Brian Albanese seconded by Howie Buttel to approve the Preliminary Budget, all in favor, carried.

Budget Meeting ended at 8:55 pm.

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Next meeting to be held on November 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM.

Date: November 1, 2025
Linda Bourn
Town of Tompkins Deputy Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:00 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY. with Bill Layton leading in the Flag salute.

Present:
Peggy Backus – Councilperson
Howard Buttel – Councilperson
Tim LaTourette – Councilperson (late 7:36)
William Layton – Supervisor
Absent: Brian Albanese – Councilperson

Others:
Ron VanValkenburg – Highway Superintendent
Linda Bourn – Deputy Town Clerk
Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper

Guests: Tania Backus

Budget Meeting began at 7:00 PM
Ended Budget Meeting at 8:55 PM

Floor Time: None

RESOLUTION # 55-2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES

On motion by Peggy Backus, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Meeting Minutes for August 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 56-2025 ABSTRACT OF CLAIMS
On motion by Peggy Backus, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for August 2025 as follows:
General Fund: $12,149.78
Highway Fund: $12,070.32.
Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 57-2025 TOWN CLERKS MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Peggy Backus, seconded by Howie Buttel it was moved to receive, and place on file the Town Clerks, monthly report for August 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 58-2025 SUPERVISOR MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
On motion by Peggy Backus, seconded by Howie Buttel it was moved to receive, and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial reports as of August 31, 2025, Dated, 8/31/2025.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 59-2025 SEWER DISTRICT ABSTRACT & MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Howie Buttel, seconded by Bill Layton, it was moved to approve and place on file the Abstract of Claims for August 2025 of the Sewer District in the amount of $3,907.85.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

NEW BUSINESS:
Received a letter of complaint from a resident on Rood Creek Road about the noise at the Peace Temple, we don’t have a noise ordinance in the town.

OLD BUSINESS:
Fire Tower – All steps and landings are done. Can’t do anymore until the windows are installed, the floor also needs to be replaced. Laurie Rankin editor for the fire tower book, there were 30 different people that volunteered up there and did one heck of a job. With hunting season coming we won’t be able to go up for a while so we will have to hold off for now. New York State has the lighting of the towers once per year from 8:30-9:30 Steve said he would like to do it; Laurie will get us set to do it.

Walking Trail – The sign has been installed.

Subdivisions –

Sewer Caps –

Union Contract –

ATV – Peggy said someone from the 607 riders, if the towns and villages pass the local laws then we will not need the landowners we would be riding on the roads not private property.

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HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT REPORT:
Ron received a letter about dust on the road, turns out it is not our road, it is a Deposit Road.
Ron also received complaints about the noise at the Peace Temple.
The 2007 truck died – needs an engine- had to be towed.
Crew has been doing road work.
Gravel is crushed.

SUPERVISOR:

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Motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Bill Layton to adjourn meeting, all in favor, carried.
Meeting adjourned at 9:23 pm.  

Next meeting to be held on October 14, 2025, at 7:00 PM.
 ________________________________
Date: September 29, 2025
Linda Bourn
Town of Tompkins Deputy Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:00 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY. with Peggy Backus leading in the Flag salute.

Present:
Peggy Backus – Councilperson
Brian Albanese – Councilperson
Howard Buttel – Councilperson
Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
William Layton – Supervisor
Absent: Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper
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Others:
Ron VanValkenburg – Highway Superintendent
Linda Bourn – Deputy Town Clerk

Guests: Tania & Sam Backus, & Roger Barnhart

Floor Time:
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RESOLUTION # 49-2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Meeting Minutes for July 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 50-2025 ABSTRACT OF CLAIMS
On motion by Peggy Backus, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for July 2025 as follows: General Fund: $5,558.00 Highway Fund: $109,298.37.
Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 51-2025 TOWN CLERKS MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel it was moved to receive, and place on file the Town Clerks, monthly report for July 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 52-2025 SUPERVISOR MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Tim LaTourette, it was moved to approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial reports as of July 31, 2025, Dated, 8/19/2025.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 53-2025 SEWER DISTRICT ABSTRACT & MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve and place on file the Abstract of Claims for July 2025 of the Sewer District in the amount of $3,480.39.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 54-2025
Motion by Howie Buttell, seconded by Tim LaTourette to appoint Wendy Layton as the Town Assessor for the 6-year term beginning on 10/1/2025. All in favor, motion carried.
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NEW BUSINESS:
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OLD BUSINESS:
Fire Tower – Volunteers have gone up to work 6-7 times so far, there are only approximately 18 steps left to do. Bill Layton’s granddaughter has offered to wood burn the steps and then we could sell them to raise some money. All the volunteers will get a step and the Papes will also get one. Bill to talk to Sarah to see what she would charge us so we can figure out what to charge. The city wanted a second gate put up at the tower so that was completed, we need to add a no trespassing sign. Hank came over and talked to Bill and asked that no parking signs be placed at the bottom of the fire tower. The board decided that that the town cannot afford to do so at this time.

Walking Trail – The sign for the trail will be here next Wednesday, Bill will check with Lynn on where to place it.

Subdivisions – Ron thinks we really need to move on this. Bill will talk to the planning board at the county.

Sewer Caps –

Union Contract – Brian noticed some sections about PFL/FMLA that Nancy may be confused about, and she will need to check before we can sign it.

ATV – Brian had a draft made and had our insurance company look it over and they said as long as we had it reviewed by an attorney there would not be any change to our insurance premiums. Next step is do we want to take the next step and take it to a lawyer to get this written up legally, or do we wait until next year and budget for it? Bill said more and more towns are allowing these laws to put into place and possibly the state will get on board at some point. The board would like Brian to check with a lawyer and see what it would cost.

HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT REPORT:
*Helped Sidney, Deposit, Walton, Hamden, Sidney, and Franklin.
*Shoulders and ditch work.
*Fixed the bank on Pine Swamp.
*The summer girls are now done.
*Changed big pipe on Alger Road.
*Trimming.
*Ditch work, cutting shoulders down, getting ready to seal our roads.
*Had some mud slides. Heavy rain. We got called during the night, I told them we won’t be down until the morning, the State was there nearby. We went down first thing in the morning and cleaned up the mess.
*Did some cold patch on the dirt roads.
*The last new truck has been in Oneonta for the last 10 weeks now. When Ron calls, they have to call up and then they call and can’t seem to get the parts.
*Ron wants to put an ad in for a new pickup truck.
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SUPERVISOR:
Bill called the state about the sign that the Fire Department wants to put up on Route 206, to see what the specs are on the sign.
Bill received a letter from the bank that they did not send the interest due on a CD back last March, so they sent us a check for $900.
Bill would like to have Josh come down to the creamery and take off the old walk-through door and install an overhead door.

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Motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Bill Layton to adjourn meeting, all in favor, carried.

Meeting adjourned at 8:03 pm.  

Next meeting to be held on September 9, 2025, at 7:00 PM. 
________________________________
Date: August 27, 2025
Linda Bourn
Town of Tompkins Deputy Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:05 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY. with Peggy Backus leading in the Flag salute.

Present:
Peggy Backus – Councilperson
Brian Albanese – Councilperson
Howard Buttel – Councilperson
William Layton – Supervisor
Absent: Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
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Others:
Ron VanValkenburg – Highway Superintendent
Linda Bourn – Deputy Town Clerk
Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper
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Guests: Brenda Martin, Tania Backus, Tammy Wagner.
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Floor Time: The fire department is asking the town to contribute money toward the electronic sign to be placed out by route 206 to be used for notices of the fire department or any other events in the town. The fire department will contribute $15,000.00 the last time they priced the signs they were around $27,000. The board thinks this would be a good place to use the good neighbor money.
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RESOLUTION # 40-2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
On motion by Peggy Backus, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Meeting Minutes for June 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 41-2025 ABSTRACT OF CLAIMS
On motion by Peggy Backus, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for June 2025 as follows:
General Fund: $8,728.36
Highway Fund: $37,940.80.
Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 42-2025 TOWN CLERKS MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel it was moved to receive, and place on file the Town Clerks, monthly report for June 2025.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 43-2025 SUPERVISOR MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
On motion by Peggy Backus, seconded by Brian Albanese, it was moved to approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial reports as of June 30, 2025, Dated, 7/08/2025.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 44-2025 SEWER DISTRICT ABSTRACT & MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve and place on file the Abstract of Claims for June 2025 of the Sewer District in the amount of $5,111.95.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 45-2025 SHARED SERVICE AGREEMENT
Motion by Brian seconded by Bill Layton to approve the shared service agreement be sent, all in favor, carried.
Send to: Masonville, Sidney, Franklin, Walton, Hamden, Colchester, Deposit.

RESOLUTION # 46-2025 HANDYMAN
Motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel to hire Josh Cutting as a general handyman and to be paid at the rate of $35.00, to be paid when called with a minimum of 1 hour pay, all in favor, motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 47-2025 SNOW REMOVAL
Motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel to approve and send the snow removal contract to Delaware County, all in favor, motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 48- 2025 COURT CLERK
Motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel to hire Patti Woods and Linda Scott to train her at $20.00 per hour, all in favor, motion carried.
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Bill Layton made a motion to enter executive session to discuss a financial matter, seconded by Brian Albanese, all in favor, motion carried.
Entered executive session 8:14pm
Entered back into regular meeting 8:22pm

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MOTIONS:
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NEW BUSINESS:
Brian would like the board to look at the ATV law like the one that The Town of Walton just passed. Brian asked if they could get a hold of the Attorney that handled Colchester ATV Law and ask him what he is seeing after passing the law if there seems to be any issues. Brian will bring any information back to the meeting in August and then we will set up a public meeting on another night.

OLD BUSINESS:

Fire Tower – Need volunteers that want to help build stairs to the fire tower. It would be best to have groups of 5-6 people. Bill has ordered the lumber and its ready to be delivered. Chris McLaughlin asked Bill if she could paint some stones down there and he said he saw some and they look nice. Peggy has been asked about the sign that is supposed to be put up by the bench, Bill said he has asked about it and it is still being worked on.

Walking Trail – Bill gave the update that they did not get approved for the grant that Lynn applied for. Bill asked if they were going to bring more stone in and Tammy said if we needed it, they would bring another load.

Subdivisions – No updates.

Sewer Caps – Bret is asking if the Town wants to put out the bid for the risers. Bill will talk to Henry and ask him to put together a bid packet.

Union Contract – Bill received a letter form Ed Arnold about the insurance rates and a list of available dates to meet. Nancy said the insurance rates are going to be going up 6.23%.
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HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT REPORT:
Helped Colchester, Deposit and Franklin
Shoulders and ditch work
Cleaning up trees and debris after all these storms
Had to make repairs on the Edwards Mower
Had to do some repairs on the Boom Mower which isn’t ours; ours isn’t done yet so the boss at the repair shop let us use his personal mower. Randy had a tree hit the nozzle on it, so we must repair it.
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2005 Loader is leaking hydraulic oil, Ron hasn’t looked at it, but you can’t buy just the part that is bad, you must buy the whole valve body and it’s $10,000. Dana is looking for a used one.
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The summer girls have been weed eating, painting.

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SUPERVISOR:
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Motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel, to adjourn meeting, all in favor, carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:24 pm.  

Next meeting to be held on August 19, 2025, at 7:00 PM.
 ________________________________
Date: July 18, 2025
Linda Bourn
Town of Tompkins Deputy Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:04 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY. with Bill Layton leading in the Flag salute.

Present:
Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
Peggy Backus – Councilperson
Brian Albanese – Councilperson
Howard Buttel – Councilperson
William Layton – Supervisor 

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Others:
Ron VanValkenburg – Highway Superintendent
Linda Bourn – Deputy Town Clerk
Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper

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Guests: Brenda Martin, Betsy Drum.

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Floor Time:
The fire department is asking the town to contribute money toward the electronic sign to be placed out by route 206 to be used for notices of the fire department or any other events in the town. The fire department will contribute $15,000.00 the last time they priced the signs they were around $27,000. The board thinks this would be a good place to use the good neighbor money.

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RESOLUTION # 35-2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
On motion by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Meeting Minutes for May 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 36-2025 ABSTRACT OF CLAIMS
On motion by Brian Buttel, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for May 2025 as follows:
General Fund: $5,516.98
Highway Fund: $34,623.08.
Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 37-2025 TOWN CLERK’S MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Howie Buttel it was moved to receive, and place on file the Town Clerks, monthly report for May 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 38-2025 SUPERVISOR MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Tim LaTourette, it was moved to approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial reports as of May 31, 2025, Dated, 6/10/2025.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 39-2025 SEWER DISTRICT ABSTRACT & MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve and place on file the Abstract of Claims for May 2025 of the Sewer District in the amount of $3,565.43.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

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MOTIONS:
Bill Layton made a motion to enter executive session to discuss a personnel matter, seconded by Brian Albanese, all in favor, motion carried.

Entered executive session 8:16pm
Entered back into regular meeting 8:23pm

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NEW BUSINESS:
Bill will call JK fuel to get us set up for delivery they are much cheaper than anyone else.

Sewer Caps – Bill will get with Henry Lamont and find out about them replacing the sewer caps that have been reported as broken, ask Henry to put in a bid proposal for these to get done.

The board has agreed that Brenda Martin will be the new fill in Account Clerk at $18.00 per hour when filling in or training.

Linda brought up that at some point we will need to have a .gov web site. As of right now we don’t have to do it because our population is below the requirement to enforce this. Brian will get the company he uses to give us a quote and a quote on backups on all our programs and files.

Nancy says that the records room needs to be gone through and some of the files in there can be removed and destroyed. Nancy asked how we know what records can be deleted; Linda will send the link to Nancy so she can go through her records, there is a record retention document for all town records on Retention and Disposition Schedules | New York State Archives (nysed.gov)

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OLD BUSINESS:
Fire Tower – Meeting on June 11, if anyone can make it.

Walking Trail – Bridge is done, there is a pile of stone there, Bill thinks Tammy Wagner got it. There are 4 benches down there as well. Brian wonders if we should have Phil mow some of that walking trail. Bill will meet with Brian Backus, and they will put the 4 corner posts will be put back up to better see the borders of the beds. Bill will also call Henry and figure out where the boundaries are of the beds.

Subdivisions – No updates.

Union Contract – Bill received a letter, showing desire to negotiate. Bill will call Ed Arnold to set up time to meet.

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HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT REPORT:
Helped Sidney & Masonville put down new road.
Helped Franklin with Gravel.
Ditch work – currently on Higley Rd.
Shoulder work until the main shaft in the Massey broke, we could not get parts, so we got Dana Wagner to fix.
Mowing.
The Massey mower bolts broke.
The 2022 International truck had to go to the garage, it kept going into neutral.
2 summer girls doing weed eating and washing doors in the shop when raining.
Stone came out and hit a car while mowing, turned into the insurance company and they won’t pay.
Hired new employee – Bailey Wood starting on June 16,2025.
The wrecked truck brought $3,700 on the auction. We did not accept the bid. We will try to run again.
The plow sold for $2,000.00.
Ron thinks we should retire the 2010 truck and purchase a new truck.

SUPERVISOR:

Motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel to adjourn meeting, all in favor, carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:28 pm.  

Next meeting to be held on July 8, 2025, at 7:00 PM.
________________________________
Date: June 27, 2025
Linda Bourn
Town of Tompkins Deputy Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:00 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY. with Howie Buttel leading in the Flag salute.

Present:
Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
Peggy Backus – Councilperson
Brian Albanese – Councilperson
Howard Buttel – Councilperson
William Layton – Supervisor

Others:
Ron VanValkenburg – Highway Superintendent
Linda Bourn – Deputy Town Clerk
Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper

Guests: Lynn VanValkenburg, Tammy Wagner, Brenda Martin, Wendy Layton & Betsy Drum.

Floor Time:
* Lynn asked for a dog sign to be put up at the walking trail to ask people to clean up after their dogs. The highway crew will dig a hole for the sign to be put in for the dogs.
* Lynn also said there are some flaws on the walkway where the fabric is sticking up that needs to be fixed. Bill said they will come back and fix.
* There is also a sluice pipe that is also sticking up some. Bill said they will come back and fix anything that is not right from the winter freeze.
* Lynn said we need some fill in before and after the bridge as there is a big gap on each side. Maybe a load of crusher run.
* The grant that the committee applied for will be awarded July 1,2025.
* Lynn would like to see WIFI connection at the creamery.
* There is also some junk on the old Decker property that the committee would like to see cleaned up.
* They are still waiting for the rocks for the trail, Bill says they can get a load from Wagner’s for around $220.00.
* Bill gave Lynn a grant and she thinks it’s a matching grant and Bill thinks it’s from the County Bed Tax money. Bill will check on this with the county tomorrow.
* The committee would like to put a porta potty down at the walking trail.

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RESOLUTION # 30-2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Tim LaTourette, it was moved to approve the Meeting Minutes for April 2025.
Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 31-2025 ABSTRACT OF CLAIMS
On motion by Brian Buttel, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for April 2025 as follows:
General Fund: $5,656.08
Highway Fund: $226,111.74.
Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 32-2025 TOWN CLERKS MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Brian Buttel, seconded by Howie Buttel it was moved to receive, and place on file the Town Clerks, monthly report for April 2025.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried, with the exception of the Code Enforcers Report of $325.00.

RESOLUTION # 33- 2025 SUPERVISOR MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Tim LaTourette, it was moved to approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial reports as of April 30, 2025, Dated, 5/13/2025.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 34-2025 SEWER DISTRICT ABSTRACT & MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Tim LaTourette, it was moved to approve and place on file the Abstract of Claims for April 2025 of the Sewer District in the amount of $3,533.64.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

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MOTIONS:
Motion by Howie Buttel, seconded by Tim LaTourette, to use Delhi Telephone to do the replacement of the fire system in the highway garage.
All in favor, motion carried.

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NEW BUSINESS:
Bill will set a date for Tim’s Retirement.

Got quotes from Fyr-Fyter for $13,638.00 and Delhi Telephone $1,800.00 for the replacement of the fire system in the highway garage. We will go with Delhi Telephone.

Hired Phil Hanley to mow the cemeteries.

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OLD BUSINESS:
Fire Tower – Road is done, gate is up. Bill thinks the material for the steps is going to be donated.
Walking Trail –
Subdivisions – No updates.
Sewer Letters –
Union Contract – Still on the radar, Brian is waiting to hear from the rep.
Truck Contract –

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HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT REPORT:
* Estimates on roads that will spend the CHIPS.
* We had 2 towns that wanted the “dump box”: Franklin and Sidney. Sidney got the bid for $33,500.00.
* Cab, Chassis and Plow are on the auction site. The Highway crew took off the good tires.
* The new box and the plow equipment that we purchased will be the same price unless there is a tariff put on.
* Took 6 loads gravel to the fire tower.
* Working on roads.
* 10-11 loads of gravel left.
* Repairing bad spots.
* Got the New Holland tractor back, still don’t have the new head for the mower yet.
* Summer help – 2 girls are interested.
* Ron still needs to hire the replacement for Tim. The ad will go in the paper for 2 weeks.
* Ron has a guy on mind that worked for us before that has driven big trucks before, he has all the qualifications.

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SUPERVISOR:

Motion by Bill Layton, seconded by Tim LaTourette to adjourn meeting, all in favor, carried.

Meeting adjourned at 8:14 pm.  

Next meeting to be held on June 10, 2025, at 7:00 PM.
 ________________________________
Date: June 8, 2025
Linda Bourn
Town of Tompkins Deputy Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:00 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY. with Ron VanValkenburg leading in the Flag salute.

Present:          

• Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
• Peggy Backus – Councilperson
• Brian Albanese – Councilperson
• Howard Buttel – Councilperson  
• William Layton – Supervisor

.
Others:

• Ron VanValkenburg – Highway Superintendent
• Linda Bourn – Deputy Town Clerk

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Guests: Josh LaTourette, Wendy Layton.

Floor Time:
Wendy Layton presented to the board a map of Franskevicz Road that Mr. Gierla was inquiring about in the January meeting.

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RESOLUTION # 25-2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve the Meeting Minutes for March 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 26-2025 ABSTRACT OF CLAIMS
On motion by Peggy Backus, seconded by Tim LaTourette, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for March 2025 as follows: General Fund: $7,535.38 Highway Fund: $15,879.58.
Vote: All in favor – Motion carried.

RESOLUTION # 27-2025 TOWN CLERKS MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Tim LaTourette, seconded by Howie Buttel it was moved to receive, and place on file the Town Clerks, monthly report for March 2025. Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 28- 2025 SUPERVISOR MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial reports as of March 31, 2025, Dated, 3/31/2025.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

RESOLUTION # 29- 2025 SEWER DISTRICT ABSTRACT & MONTHLY REPORT
On motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Howie Buttel, it was moved to approve and place on file the Abstract of Claims for March 2025 of the Sewer District in the amount of $3,437.94.
Vote: All in favor – Motion Carried.

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Entered Executive Session at 7:26 PM
Exited Executive Session at 7:48PM
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Enter back into regular monthly meeting at 7:48PM

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MOTIONS:
Motion by Bill Layton, seconded by Brian Albanese to enter in executive session to discuss a personnel matter. All in favor, motion carried.

Motion by Bill Layton, seconded by Tim LaTourette to raise the court clerk hourly rate of pay to $20.00 per hour, all in favor, motion carried.

Motion by Bill Layton to hire Reese Yeomens to mow the town cemeteries for 2025 season pending proof of insurance, seconded by Howie Buttel, all in favor, motion carried.

Motion by Brian Albanese, seconded by Bill Layton to purchase the Tenco Equipment that was presented at March meeting, all in favor, carried.

Motion by Bill Layton, seconded by Brian Albanese to put the Fire Alarm System replacement out for bid, all in favor, motion carried.

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NEW BUSINESS:
Brian read a letter from Lena Storrer about her desire to attend 4H camp this year.

Kyle had Fyr Fyter in and they looked at the fire alarm system and it will be $14,000 for a new alarm system. Brian says this has to go out for bid.

Ron said we got a pile of stone, and we bought it under the county bid price which was cheaper than the bid price we had received.

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OLD BUSINESS:

Fire Tower – The highway crew is going up next Monday, Tuesday Wednesday next week to work on the road.

Walking Trail – Completed, Lynn has applied for a $40,000 Grant for a pavilion.

Subdivisions – No updates.

Sewer Letters – Linda sent the letters and so far, has received 2 back and 3 back as undeliverable. She will gather them together and turn over to Brett.

Truck Contract – Kyle had some answers to the questions the board had about the purchase of the new truck that they want to order now. The warranty will not begin until we take possession of the truck after the box and equipment are all installed.
If we sign the contract now, we will pay for the fit up (Tenco Equipment) first $186,544 next year then we would pay for the chassis (20-24 months).

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HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT REPORT:
Trimming Trees
Picked things out of ditches
Sweeping – about 95% done, broom died a couple of days ago but is repaired now so we can finish.

The grindings that we used last year for the roads didn’t work out like we had planned and are breaking up, we should have mixed bigger stone in with them and it may be the oil that we mixed in, we will try again using them this year.

Changed a pipe in Chamberlain Brook Road.

Haven’t received any news from CHIPS yet.

Ron presented the roads that he would like to repair this year for the board to sign, but there are no prices on there, so they will wait until he gets the estimate.

Ron asked the board if they cared how he sold the truck that was wrecked. Either as a whole truck or part it out, the board doesn’t care which way as long as we don’t spend a lot of labor on it. Town of Plymouth came and looked at it, but Ron hasn’t heard back from them.

Ron has an article about the electric trucks, doesn’t see how this would ever work.

Ron is going to hire someone in May to replace Tim. The board would still like to modify the union agreement to be able to start the new person at less wages to start. Tim will have 46 years of service in when he retires, the board would like to do something for him.

Ron made up a list of all the equipment with values.

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SUPERVISOR:

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Motion by Bill Layton, seconded by Howie Buttel to adjourn meeting, all in favor, carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:21 pm.  

Next meeting to be held on May 13, 2025, at 7:00 PM.
________________________________
Date: April 18, 2025
Linda Bourn
Town of Tompkins Deputy Town Clerk