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 7:02 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY.

Present:

1. William Layton – Supervisor
2. Howard Buttel – Councilperson
3. Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
4. Peggy Backus – Councilperson
5. Carl Stuendel – Councilperson

Others:

1. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper
2. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk
3. Carol Zandt – Resident
4. Brian Albanese – Resident
5. Everett Burrows – Observer
6. Chuck Smith – Observer

Pledge to the flag was led by Carol Zandt.

Guest Speakers: None.

Minutes Approval:
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the November 11, 2013 Board Meeting.
Vote: 4 AYEs – Buttel, LaTourette, Backus & Layton
1 Abstain – Stuendel
Motion Carried.

On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the minutes from the Public Hearing held on November 11, 2013
Vote: 4 AYEs – Buttel, LaTourette, Backus & Layton
1 Abstain – Stuendel
Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:
Town Clerk / Tax Collector Report –
On motion by Backus, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk/Tax Collector monthly report for November 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report: Reviewed with Nancy Roberts, Bookkeeper –
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial Audit dated December 9, 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Planning Board – Provided for board to review.
[Click HERE for a PDF containing the September and October 2013 PB Minutes.]

Assessor – December’s Monthly report was provided for board to review.

Highway Superintendent – None

Dog Control Officer –

1. Received a couple of calls about lost dogs.

Supervisor –

1. Received an invoice from Bob Beebe in the amount of $818.00 with a voucher for CWC to apply for payment. Layton contacted CWC and was advised that the contract funding contract was exhausted and they would be unable to pay Mr. Beebe, CWC also sent a letter explaining this. After much discussion the Town will pay the Legal fees.
2. A resolution was provided to the board to approve the settlement with the City of New York and to authorize the law office of Robert L. Beebe to sign the settlement on behalf of the Town of Tompkins. The Board discussed that during a meeting with Kevin Young about this resolution that there are still some unclear issues with the template and Kevin would address them and get back to the Board before signing. At this time the Board has not heard back from Kevin so they will not agree to the resolution.
3. After much searching Michelle has been able to find a Deputy Clerk that would be able to help Michelle out when needed. In January the new Deputy Clerk will be appointed.

Correspondence: –None

Other:
A discussion took place on appointing an administrator of clerical work for the Trout Creek Sewer District. On motion by LaTourette, Seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to appoint Michelle Phoenix as administrator of the Trout Creek Sewer District.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

A card was presented to Carl Stuendel from the Board thanking him for his years of service as Town Board Member. Carl did not seek reelection and his term will end on December 31, 2013. Brian Albanese will be taking Carl’s seat on the board.

Abstract of Claims
On motion by Backus, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for December 9, 2013 as follows:
General Fund: $54084.26
Highway Fund: $93,973.57
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned at 7:51PM

 
January 13, 2014 meeting will be held at 6:00 PM

Date: December 9, 2013
Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:01 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY.

Present:

1. William Layton – Supervisor
2. Howard Buttel – Councilperson
3. Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
4. Peggy Backus – Councilperson
5. Carl Stuendel – Councilperson

Others:

1. Brian Albanese – Town Resident

Pledge to the flag was led by Tim LaTourette.

Guest Speakers:
Brian Albanese – Present for observation

Minutes Approval:
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the September 9, 2013 Board Meeting.
Vote: 4 AYEs – Buttel, LaTourette, Backus & Layton
1 Abstain – Stuendel
Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:
Town Clerk / Tax Collector Report:
On motion by Buttel, seconded by Backus, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk/Tax Collector monthly report for September 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report:
On motion by Buttel, seconded by Backus, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial Audit dated October 15, 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Planning Board – Planning Board minutes for June, July and August were presented to the board for review.  [cfs: Click HERE for a PDF that contains the June 13, July 11, and Aug 8, 2013 PB minutes.]

Assessor – October’s Monthly report was provided for board to review.

Highway Superintendent –

1. County snow plowing agreement has been received from the County. Ron stated he spoke with Wayne Reynolds and told him he feels the Town does not get paid enough for the winter road maintenance that is done.
2. The 2004 one ton needs to go out for bid. Ron will get all specs and quotes on what it is worth. Tim, Howie and Ron will get together to come up with a sales price and to discuss what steps should take for the sale.
3. Working roads – Readburn had 126 loads of gravel placed which did not cover the entire road but made it smoother then it was.
4. Carroll Hill – Rip Rab and gravel of about 250-260 ft had been placed. Received the stone from Tim Bennett. The job is done and should be covered by FEMA.
5. Roods Creek – Boarding Deposit line, ditching and gravel has been put down.
6. Working of roads is most likely done for this year due to weather change. If weather permits there is a possibility of putting a pipe in on Dry brook.
7. All the roads that had had 2 inch put on are now all sealed.
8. All Gravel is crushed
9. The new 2014 Truck should be put into use within the next couple of days.
10. Discussion took place about talking with LaFever to ask them to replacing the 6 loads of crushed gravel that the Town of Tompkins used to repair the damage on Chamberlin Brook road, from the time when LaFever did repairs on Chamberlin Brook (EWP Project) and damaged the road.

Report – Dog Control Officer –
3 Calls in September:
1 was a complain about a dog in a garbage
1 was about a dog chasing cattle
1 was about a missing dog.
All calls were settled.

Report- Supervisor –

1. Board reviewed the tentative budget and before passing it as a Preliminary budget there were some questions for Nancy. Bill will call board with a date to meet again including Nancy to answer the questions.
2. Reviewed the equipment schedule.

Correspondence:
Received a thank you card from the Del. Co. Fair 5k run for sponsorship

Other:
* Discussion about Fire District coverage

* Proposal Letter from LVDV Operations Inc.
On motion by Buttel to accept and sign proposal from LVDV, 2^nd by Backus
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

*Motion to accept and sign Change order #5 for the CWMP and Stormwater Retrofit Backus, Seconded by Layton
Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried

*Motion to pay approve and sign pay application #10 for CWMP by Layton, Seconded by Buttel
Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried

Abstract of Claims
On motion by Layton, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for September 9, 2013 as follows:
General Fund: $118,087.49
Highway Fund: $110,594.19
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned at 9:37PM

Next month’s meeting will be changed to Thursday November 7, 2013 at 7:00pm.

________________________________
Date: October 15, 2013
Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
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.

Present:

1. William Layton – Supervisor
2. Howard Buttel – Councilperson
3. Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
4. Peggy Backus – Councilperson
5. Carl Stuendel – Councilperson

Others:

1. Ronald VanValkenburg – Hwy Superintendent
2. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk
3. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper to the Supervisor
4. Wendy Layton – Town Assessor
5. Chris Yacobucci – Lamont Engineers
6. Joe Tarantino – Town Resident
7. Willie & Ann Wood – Town Residents

Pledge to the flag was led by Stuendel.

Guest Speakers:
Chris Yacobucci – Chris gave a brief review on the status of the CWMP and answered any questions that anyone had.
At this time the Board also agreed to sign change order #3 and the request for payment.

Follow-up to Public Hearing:
Carl Stuendel moved Resolution 11-2013, seconded by LaTourette, to Adopt Local Law 2-2013, which adopts the NY State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code as the Building Code for the Town of Tompkins.

Minutes Approval:
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the April 8, 2013 Board Meeting.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:
Town Clerk / Tax Collector’s Report –
On motion by Buttel, seconded by Backus, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk/Tax Collector monthly report for April 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report –
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial Audit for April 2013 Financial report.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Planning Board – March and April minutes were provided to board members for review.
Click HERE for a PDF of the March & April Planning Board Minutes.

Assessor – Wendy presented the board with her monthly Assessor report.

Highway Superintendent –

1. EWP Projects – Site showing for potential bidders will be on 05/22/2013.  Bids will be opened on 06/05/2013 at 11:00am and will be awarded on 06/10/2013 at the regular board meeting. Michelle has filled out the prevailing wage paperwork and they are in her office for bidders that need a copy.
2. Working on Roads – Roods Creek has received #3 & #4 Stone from top of hill to bottom corner; Larry Schaefer has provided the stone and the truck. On top of that stone, stone dust was applied to fill the voids. Larry had stated in the past that he would put crusher run in places where there was a problem from the wear and tear of their trucks on the road. Ron suggested that we ask Larry to attend a board meeting and discuss the destruction that their trucks and equipment is doing to Roods Creek.
3. Started working Sands Creek but due to it getting dry, work had to stop
4. Ditching on Abe Boice and have changed 2 road pipes and 2 driveway pipes
5. Some repairs have been done on equipment
6. We will be receiving apx. $2,000 more for snow removal from County.
7. Bid for a 2014 1 Ton went out in paper.
8. Dana Wagner started working on the corner posts on the trucks. Dana gave an estimate of $300.00 per side per truck. Ron also questioned the board about the painting of the trucks.
9. Ron stated he misspoke at last month’s meeting about the roads being swept. At that time they were not all swept but as of this meeting they are all done.
10. Chamberlin Brook – Ron provided the board with estimates for putting down a double surface two tenths of a mile on said road. After much discussion Layton called for Executive Session at 8:34pm – Returned at 8:43pm. Layton explained the board feels it is not feasible to blacktop the road but would put down the normal amount of Magnesium Chloride in May and would monitor the road and the dust issue. If while monitoring the road it has again become unacceptably dusty, the board agreed a second shot would be applied.
11. Ron has received the fire proof cabinets that were requested by the insurance company.

Dog Control Officer –

1. At this time no Rabies Clinic has been scheduled for the town.
2. Received a contract with the Heart of the Catskills Humane Society. On motion by Buttel, seconded by Layton, to sign a 1 year contract with HCHS with the stipulation that Michelle first clarifies the meaning of paragraph #6.
   Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried

Supervisor –

1. The Trout Creek Church would like to know if they can store a small amount of records. On Motion by LaTourette, seconded by Layton, to allow them to store a small shoe box size box in records room.
   Vote: Four Ayes, One Abstention (Stuendel) – Motion Carried
2. Both Town signs are now up.
3. More pictures are being enlarged and framed by Village Printer in Oneonta at $20.00 a piece. Bill stated he dropped off between 40 – 45 pictures to be done.
4. Summer help has started.

Correspondence:
Received letter from J. Green inquiring on the school house reunion and approval to hold it on Saturday, August 10, 2013

A letter was received from the Senior Dining Program requesting the Town of Tompkins to budget $500.00 to go toward the program in 2014.

A letter was received from Georgian Merwin requesting that the old schoolhouse on Bridge Street be dedicated to her fathers and a sign be erected on the building with her father’s name on it. Because the Town Board is considering the restoration of the schoolhouse and the possibility of having it listed on the NY State Registry of Historic Sites, it won’t consider a name change until it understands the requirements for obtaining this historical designation.  The Board will look into it when we get further into this process.

Other:
As required by NYMER, Ron has fixed the bolts on the swing set.

We have received the old signs from CWC that say “former place of Rock Royal and Cannonsville”. They have been replaced with new ones.

Received from the Coalition of Watershed Towns a board-member election ballot. The board agreed on who they wanted to vote for, and Layton will fill out the form and send it back.

Abstract of Claims
On motion by Backus, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for May 13, 2013 as follows:
General Fund: $8166.49
Highway Fund: $57,041.86
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Meeting Adjourned at 10:20 pm

The meeting for June 10, 2013 will be held at the Town Meeting Room, at 7:00pm Trout Creek, NY

Date: May 13, 2013
Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:03 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY.

Present:

1. William Layton – Supervisor
2. Howard Buttel – Councilperson
3. Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
4. Peggy Backus – Councilperson
5. Carl Stuendel – Councilperson

Others:

1. Ronald VanValkenburg – Hwy Superintendent
2. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk
3. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper to the supervisor
4. Shane Strong – Cobleskill Stone
5. Steve Brown
6. Paula Brown
7. Joe Tarantino – Town Resident
8. Wendy Layton – Town Assessor
9. Brian Albanese – Town Resident

Pledge to the flag was led by Ron VanValkenburg.

Opening of bids for stone and pipe:
Bids received for stone were from Cobleskill Stone and Carver.
Bids received for pipe were from Chemung supply and Jess F Howes.
On Motion by Buttel it was moved to accept the bid for stone from Cobleskill stone, Seconded from Backus.
Vote:  All AYEs – Motion Carried
On Motion by Buttel it was moved to accept both bids submitted for pipe, one from Chemung supply and one from Jess F Howe’s, seconded by LaTourette.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

Guest Speakers:
Steve Brown – approached the board seeking interest in the Town of Tompkins taking over the Fire Tower in Rock Rift. Steve stated that the tower was owned by NYS and NYS was willing to turn ownership over to the town at no charge. After much discussion on restoration and liability issues it was decided that a decision would be made during the Supervisors report of this meeting.

Minutes Approval:
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the February 11, 2013 Board Meeting.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

 
Monthly Financial Reports:
 
Town Clerk / Tax Collector Report:
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk/Tax Collector monthly report for February 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

The Town Clerk also provided all the board members with a copy of the 2012 State Financial Report that was submitted to the NYS state Comptroller.
 

Supervisor’s Report:
The February 2013, Supervisor’s monthly financial Audit was presented to the board by Nancy Roberts, Bookkeeper to the Supervisor.
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial Audit for  February 2013 Financial report.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Planning Board – Copies of January 2013 meeting minutes were presented to the board for their review.
[For a PDF of the Jan 10, 2013, Planning Board minutes click HERE.]

 
Assessor – Wendy presented the board with her monthly Assessor report and answered any questions the board had.

 
Report – Highway Superintendent

1. Ron presented the board with a check for $1151.43 for scrap metal.
2. They have been plowing and sanding
3. Cutting brush on Walton Mountain Rd.
4. Have had minor breakdowns on trucks.
5. They have been out 57 times this year for City and County plowing.
6. They have yet to get the prices for painting the Truck boxes and rails but will get them soon.
7. Ron would like to replace the 1 ton. Ron has got a price from Chevy for a chassis.
8. Ron stated that the new residents in the old Kesler farm have placed fence posts in the ditch but have not attached the fencing; Ron stated that when it comes time to do ditches those posts and fence will need to be removed. Bill stated he would speak to the owners and ask them to move the posts out of the ditch.
9. Quotes from Suit Kote for Dust oil and Liquid Calcium for the section of road in front of Mr. Tarantino’s on Chamberlin Brook. Liquid Calc is 1.16/gal costing about $540 to do the section. Dust oil is $1.70/gal costing about $800. If using Liquid Calcium we can purchase amount needed but if we get the Black Dust oil we will have to order a whole truck load. The Black Dust oil is not made around here so they only allow full loads to be purchased.

Joe Tarantino spoke stating the Calcium did not do its job last year and only worked for a couple days. He stated that either option will solve his problem with the dust or he wouldn’t have come looking for an alternative solution. Ron was asked by the board to get prices on the cost of paving the 2/10^th of a mile in front of Mr. Tarantino home.

Report – Dog Control Officer

1. DCO has purchased the new dog crate.
2. 2 Dogs had been picked up and taken to Crescent.
3. Contacted the Heart of the Catskill and they stated they had a meeting on the 16^th and would discuss taking on Town of Tompkins at that time and would get back to DCO after.  Deb from Ag. & Mkts stated if we had to, we could continue to use Crescent Pet Lodge.
4. DCO are going to purchase new leashes and cleaning supplies.

Report- Supervisor

1. Lawn Mowing bids need to go out. Town Clerk will put the same bids as last year in the paper to run for 2 weeks and state the bids need to be in the Town Clerk’s office no later than April 8^th, 2013
2. EWP projects – On motion by Backus, seconded by Buttel, it was moved granting the Town Clerk permission to put the EWP projects out to bid.
   Vote: All AYEs, Motion Carried
3. Town of Tompkins Building Permit Codes. Joe Approached Bill stating there were changes needed in the Town of Tompkins Building Code’s book, Established in 1975.  After much discussion it was found the town needs to set a law stating they are using Administration and Enforcement of the NYS uniform fire prevention and building code. The Town clerk will look into this and get it started.
4. After much discussion on the Building Inspector/Code Enforcer policies it was decided that he will turn in any money he receives to the Town Clerk the day he receives it.
5. Bill stated he is going to go ahead and get the pictures done that were discussed last year.
6. Last month the swing set was run into and the person that had done it stated they will get it fixed. After much discussion Buttel stated he will contact this person and give them a time limit to get this done. After that the board will look into legal action.
7. In Support of the Second Amendment of the US Constitution – Resolution 06-2013
   On Motion by Buttel, Seconded by LaTourette, it was Resolved that the Town of Tompkins opposes the enactment of any legislation that would infringe upon the Right of the People to Keep and Bear Arms and consider such laws to be unnecessary beyond lawful legislative authority granted to our state representative’s as there is no documented correlation between gun control measures and crime reduction.
   Vote: All AYEs
   Motion Carried
8. NYC has proposed a settlement with the land assessments. A letter and resolution came from Bob Beebe stating NYC is going to maintain the assessments for 2013, 2014, 2015. After much discussion it was decided not to go with the resolution provided by Beebe until more questions could be answered.
9. Fire Tower Resolution 07-2013. On Motion by LaTourette, Seconded by Backus, it was moved to take over ownership of the Fire Tower at Rock Rift from New York State.
   Vote: All AYEs
   Motion Carried.

Correspondence: –
Received letter from American Legion / Gun Town Post 1554 for veterans services
On Motion by Layton, Seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to send the Gun Town Post $400 for veteran’s services.
Vote: All AYEs
Motion Carried

Other: NONE

Abstract of Claims
On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for March 11, 2013 as follows:
General Fund: $4029.35
Highway Fund: $19641.54
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reading back of the minutes:
On motion by Layton, seconded by Buttel, it was moved not to read the minutes but to approve them through email when Michelle gets them wrote up and sent out.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

Meeting Adjourned at 9:31 pm

The meeting for April 8th, 2013 will be held at the Town Meeting Room, at 7:00pm Trout Creek, NY

Date: March 11, 2013
Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:03 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY.
 

Present:

1. William Layton – Supervisor – Absent
2. Howard Buttel – Councilperson
3. Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
4. Peggy Backus – Councilperson – Arrived at 7:17
5. Carl Stuendel – Councilperson

Others:

1. Ronald VanValkenburg – Hwy Superintendent
2. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk
3. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper to the supervisor

Pledge to the flag was led by Carl Stuendel.

Guest Speakers: None

Minutes Approval:
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Regular Board, Organizational, Board of Health and Appointment meeting’s held on January 8, 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:
Town Clerk / Tax Collector Report:
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk/Tax Collector monthly report for January 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.
 

Supervisor’s Report:
The January 2013, Supervisor’s monthly financial Audit was present to the board by Nancy Roberts, Bookkeeper to the Supervisor.
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial Audit for  January 2013 Financial report.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Planning Board – Copies of December 2012 were presented to the board for their review.
[Click HERE to view the December 13, 2012 Planning Board Minutes.]

Assessor – Copies of January 2013 Assessor report were presented to the board for their review.

Report – Highway Superintendent

1. Ron presented the board with a purchase order for the pipe that needs to be replaced on Mormon Hollow for $6,701.55

On Motion by LaTourette, Seconded by Backus to approve the purchase order presented by Ron for the purchase of a 40 ft pipe in the amount of $6701.55
Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried

2. EWP Projects – Rock Rift and Readburn No. 2 are 100% done. Pine Swamp and Readburn No. 1 are still in design.  The Chamberlain Brook project is still waiting to hear from City for approval.
3. Guys have been cutting brush on Walton Mountain.
4. Have had minor repairs on equipment.
5. Gravel Bank permit has been renewed and is good from Jan 29, 2013 – Jan 2018
6. Will be getting $130,118 in CHIPS money.
7. Stone and pipe bids will be going out in the papers and will set the opening of bids at the March’s Monthly meeting.

Report – Dog Control Officer
NYS Ag & Markets have done a Municipal Inspection report for Crescent Pet Lodge on January 17, 2013, and the reports shows the dog shelter to be “unsatisfactory” but also does state that it will be re inspected in apx 30 days and it is anticipated that all deficiencies will be corrected by that time.
Russ is due to have Inspection on Friday February 16^th and at that time they will discuss with Deb Toth what steps need to be taken if the next inspection of Crescent Pet Lodge fails.

Report- Supervisor

1. Received a resignation letter from Wendy Layton for her position on the Board of Assessment of Review due to her undertaking the new Assessor position.

On motion by LaTourette, Seconded by Stuendel to accept Wendy Layton’s resignation for the Board of Assessment Review.
Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried.
It was discussed that upon investigation there was no need to replace Wendy’s position due to there still being enough members on the board after Wendy’s resignation.

2. There will be a letter sent out too Mr. & Mrs. Decker in regards to the damage done to the sign located on Decker’s property. It was stated in the letter that LaFever has been reminded by Lamont of this issue and that it has to be dealt with in a timely manner.

Correspondence:
On 2/11/2013 a letter was received by Robert Beebe in regards to the City of New York v Town of Tompkins, Stating that the proposals will be presented to the DEP Commissioner during the week of February 11, 2013. Thereafter, any recommended settlement will be submitted to the respective principals, the City of NY and our Town.
At this point Beebe explained in the letter that things are in a “holding pattern”, which, giving these circumstances, He believes is acceptable to CWC.

Other:
After review and discussion of the membership renewal for the Del. Co. Chambers of Commerce it was agreed by the Board not renew membership due to the Board feeling as if there was no reason for the Town to have such Membership.

Abstract of Claims
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Backus, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for February 11, 2013 as follows:
General Fund: $122,494.14
Highway Fund: $19,861.03
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reading back of the minutes:
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to accept the minutes as read back.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

Meeting Adjourned at 8:20pm

The meeting for March 11, 2013 will be held at the Town Meeting Room, at 7:00pm Trout Creek, NY

Date: February 11, 2013
Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
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.

Present:

1. William Layton – Supervisor
2. Howard Buttel – Councilperson
3. Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
4. Peggy Backus – Councilperson
5. Carl Stuendel – Councilperson

Others:

1. Ronald VanValkenburg – Hwy Superintendent
2. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk
3. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper to the supervisor
4. Willy & Ann Wood – Town residents
5. Chris Yacobucci – Lamont Engineers
6. Chris Slonker – Mang Insurance Group

Pledge to the flag was led by Peggy Backus

Guest Speakers:
Chris Slonker – Supplied the board with the 2013 Commercial Insurance proposal for the board to review.
Chris Yacobucci – Chris discussed with the board the status of the waste water management project.

Minutes Approval:
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Backus, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Board meeting held on November 8, 2012.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:
Town Clerk’s Report:
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Backus, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk’s monthly report for November 2012.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report:
The Town’s monthly financial report was presented by Nancy Roberts and reviewed by the board.
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s December 10, 2012 Financial Report.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.
On motion by Stuendel to 2^nd by Buttel to transfer $2815.83 from the TA200 to the General fund.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Report – Planning Board – Copy of the September 13, 2012, was presented to the board to review.
[Click HERE for a PDF of the PB Meeting Minutes.]

Report – Assessor – A copy of the December’s report was presented for the board to review.

Report – Highway Superintendent

1. Colchester has picked up the 1989 International and paid $18,000.
2. The Sander has been purchased by Deposit for $3200.00
3. Done hauling grit for this year and have only spent half the budget for grit.
4. All trucks have been washed and waxed and minor repairs done.
5. Equipment has been put in the creamery.
6. Dana Wagner is going to make some corner post for the dump boxes that are rusting out.
7. Ron would like to have the boxes and frames painted on the 4 trucks and use the money from the sale of the 1989 international, Ron will get quotes.
8. Ron would like to replace both 1 tons.
9. The 2006 International (John’s Truck) the waste gate on the turbo went and they are awaiting parts.

Report – Dog Control Officer –

1. Received a call from a resident stating she had seen a black and white dog running around on their property and was trying to get a hold of it for the DCO.  Never heard anymore back.
2. Resident on Pines Swamp called stating they were missing a Great Dane
3. Received a call from Del. Co. Sheriff Dept. requesting DCO assistance if needed with dogs, Sheriff called back stated no need for DCO assistance.
4. Received another call from owners of missing Great Dane stating they feel neighbors up the road have their dog. They were told to contact Masonville DCO because the neighbors are not in Town of Tompkins District.
5. Received a call from Resident on Dryden about their missing dog.

Report- Supervisor

1. Received a letter from Bob Beebe stating that Mr. Paparella will be having a meeting soon about the litigation issues and issues will be resolved. Board members discussed that they need to make a decision soon on if they wanted to go with Beebe’s proposal or the CWC’s.
2. Linda Ramsey advised Bill that employees have the option to use direct deposit if desired.
3. 1 of the new “welcome to the Town of Tompkins” signs has been installed and is across the road from Lloyd Backus residence on 206. Bill has contacted the Walton Reporter to have a story and picture done with the sign and Hanna Wagner.
4. Resolution 26-2012 – On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Backus. to adopt the amended subdivisions regulations after having conducted a SEQR review asserting there will be no environmental impact that result from these amendments.
   Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

EXECTIVE SESSION WAS CALLED BY SUPERVISOR LAYTON AT 9:05
RETURN FROM EXECTIVE SESSION WAS AT 9:49PM

Correspondence: – None

Other:
Town Clerk stated that she has received the new Town Clerk and Tax Collection software and training from BAS and was pleased with what she has done so far with the program. Michelle will not officially start using the program until January 1, 2013

Abstract of Claims
On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for December 10, 2012 as follows:
General Fund: $12626.98
Highway Fund: $35982.85
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reading back of the minutes:
On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to accept the minutes as read back.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

Meeting Adjourned at 10:15pm
 

The meeting for January 14, 2013 will be held at the Town Meeting Room, at 6:00pm Trout Creek, NY

Date: December 10, 2012
Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 6:58 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY.

Present:

1. William Layton – Supervisor
2. Howard Buttel – Councilperson
3. Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
4. Peggy Backus – Councilperson
5. Carl Stuendel – Councilperson

Others:

1. Ronald VanValkenburg – Hwy Superintendent
2. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk
3. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper to the supervisor
4. Willy & Ann Wood – Town residents

Pledge to the flag was led by Howie Buttel.

Guest Speakers:
Willie & Ann Wood – attended meeting to observe.

2013 Tentative Budget
The tentative budget was reviewed by the board.
On Motion by Backus, seconded by Buttel, it was move to accept the 2013 Tentative Budget (as presented by the Bookkeeper to the Supervisor) as the Preliminary Budget.
Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried

 
A Public Hearing on the Preliminary Budget will be held on November 8, 2012 at 7pm.
[Click Here for PDF of the Preliminary Budget.]

Minutes Approval:
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Board meeting held on September 10, 2012.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:
Town Clerk’s Report:
On motion by Layton, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk’s monthly report for September 2012.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report:
The Town’s monthly financial report was presented by Nancy Roberts and reviewed by the board.
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s October 9, 2012 Financial Report.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Report – Planning Board – Minutes for the August 9, 2012 planning board was presented to the board for review.
[Click Here for PDF of the Aug 9, 2012 Planning Board minutes.]

Report – Assessor – None
 

Report – Highway Superintendent

1. Cold patch has been done on Chase Brooke and the City section by the Rainbow, Ron hopes to have that area broke up and re graveled next year.
2. Gravel has been hauled from Afton and stocked piled at the Town property.
3. Roads have been worked and graveled including:
   Barbour Brook took 25 loads, Chamberlain Brook took 39 loads, Faulkner Rd took 24 loads also had changed pipe, Dufton Hollow took 4 loads and has      had limbs and ditch work done, Carroll Hill took 15 loads, Kerryville Rd took 12 loads and also had limbs trimmed.
   Franskevicz Road is being worked on now and thus far has taken 10 loads.
4. The new truck had to have a clutch fan repaired and was under warranty.
5. 2006 International had anti freeze in the oil and was found that the oil pump went, Dana Wagner has repaired it.
6. 2005 1 ton had the module kit and fuel pump go so that it was unable to draw off of both tanks.
7. Ron tallied that they have used 3836 yards of gravel for the roads this year.
8. Ron contacted Ben Funk and found that a good starting price for the 1988 truck would be $19,000.  Ron was unsure if that was bare or with Sander and Plow and he would look into it.

Report – Dog Control Officer

1. 63 Summons have been mailed for unlicensed dogs.
2. Discussed charging a $25 late fee.

Report- Supervisor

1. A letter was received from the Lawyer of a land owner that disputes the right of way for the Sewer district. Rob Panasci had replied and stated they feel things were correct and will proceed with the project, he also stated they had given the land owner plenty of time to dispute the survey in question and to have it surveyed on their own.
2. Chips Money has been received.
3. Received a contract from Lafever for the rental of the creamery and small trailer. On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Backus, to allow rental with the stipulations in the contract.
   Vote: All AYE’s – Motion Carried
4. Georgiana Merwin, Town of Tompkins Tax Collector, has submitted a resignation letter taking effect on December 31, 2012. Board discussed possible appointments for that position and due to classes that may need to be taken for the appointed person it may be better to ask for Georgiana to resign on November 1, 2012. There was also discussion on a retirement gathering for Georgiana.
5. There was only one application for the Assessor position submitted.  The board interviewed the applicant.
   On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to appoint Wendy Layton to the Assessor position.
   Vote: All AYE’s – Motion carried
6. Bill had spoken to Frank Morgan about a privacy fence for the Town Hall property, Frank suggested using evergreen trees due to the fact they would have less upkeep than a wooden fence.
7. Bill took the picture of the hotel that once stood on Jacob’s Block and had it scanned, enlarged, and mounted at the Frame Shop in Walton at a cost of $100.
8. Bill had received a late notice from the County for taxes on a property owned by the Town. Bill is going to contact the County to see what needs to be done to get this taken care of.

Correspondence:
Layton had received a letter from an individual that is requesting reimbursement for money owed back to them for their mother that was in Country Side Care Center, due to the fact they had closed down.
Layton stated that this letter was sent out to all supervisors.

Other:
Carl Stuendel provided the Town Board with the Planning Board’s revised Town of Tompkins Subdivision Regulations that corrected some minor issues and one major change of eliminating Simple Sub Divisions. The Board will review these changes and, if necessary, make any further modifications at the November meeting.  Before the Board adopts the changes, they will be submitted to the Delaware County Planning Board for review and a Public Hearing will be scheduled for community comment.

Abstract of Claims
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for October 9, 2012 as follows:
General Fund: $3018.57
Highway Fund: $248,993.20
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reading back of the minutes:
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Backus, it was moved to accept the minutes as read back.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

Date: October 9, 2012
Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 6:00 pm in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY.

Present:

1. William Layton – Supervisor
2. Howard Buttel – Councilperson
3. Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
4. Peggy Backus – Councilperson
5. Carl Stuendel – Councilperson

Others:

1. Ronald VanValkenburg – Hwy Superintendent
2. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk
3. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper to the supervisor

Pledge to the flag was led by Tim LaTourette

Guest Speakers:
None

Minutes Approval:
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Board meeting held on July 9, 2012.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:

Town Clerk’s Report:
On motion by Layton, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk’s monthly report for July 2012.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report:
The Town’s monthly financial report was presented by Nancy Roberts and reviewed by the board.
On motion by Backus, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s August 21, 2012 Financial Report.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:

Report – Planning Board
Minutes for the June 2012 and July 2012 planning board meetings were presented to the board.
[Click HERE for PDF of the June and July Planning Board Minutes.]

Report – Assessor
None

Report – Highway Superintendent

1. Ron asked if the board would consider putting up a privacy fence at the Town building between the Town property and adjacent property.  The board will look into this.
2. Road crew has been helping out other towns.
3. Rip rap area on Rock Rift road has been done.
4. Chips work complete and paperwork sent in.  This year additional paper work has needed to be sent compared to prior years.
5. Stone done on Dryden, Walton Mt and Ferris Dean Roads
6. A clutch kit and rear main seal has been done on Scott’s truck.  After the work was done it was noticed the seal is leaking and may need to be replaced again. Work was done by Dana Wagner and Marc Layton.
7. New Rotors and front brakes were put on the 2010 pickup.
8. The two 1 tons have had rotors and brakes replaced.
9. 2004 Chevy had brake lines replaced.
10. Excavator was skipping while idling so a new injector has been replaced, and also had a light and bracket replaced on the boom.
11. The DEC contacted Ron and asked if our highway crew could help repair Barbour Book Rd.  We hauled about 400 yards of gravel to help the DEC out with short section of that road.
12. Intersection of Grey Road and Finch hollow had ditch and pipe work done.
13. Mowing, cutting limbs, Boom mowing and ditch work done on Tower Mountain.
14. All Town roads have been mowed, some a second time.
15. Due to the dry weather roads have not been worked but they have been filling pot holes.
16. Placed an order with Chemung Supply for carbides costing apx $2,000, ordering this early has saved money.
17. Ron discussed his interest on getting the frames and boxes painted on the 4 Internationals, when he looked into this he found it had cost Masonville apx $4,200 per truck, Ron would like to see this added to the budget.
18. The new truck should have the box on Thursday and if all goes well they may have truck after Labor day, Ron wishes to take a truck and trailer and pick up the truck, wing and plow after his inspection instead of it being delivered.
19. Ron supplied the board with a list of all the roads that have been sealed from 1997 to now.
20. On Motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, to give Ron permission to have the EWP projects’ bids put in the Walton Reporter after Soil and Water gets them drawn up.
    Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Report – Dog Control Officer
DCO and Judge have met and tickets will start going out along with Harboring letters.

Report- Supervisor

1. Town Signs – On motion by LaTourette, Seconded by Backus, to purchase 2 4×5 single faced town welcome signs at $1,600 and have installed near the White Barn and across the road from Lloyd Backus residence on 206.
   Vote: Al AYE’s – Motion Carried.
2. While doing a tour with interested contractors of the sewer district, Bill was approached by a couple contractors with interest in renting the creamery and trailer.  Board showed interest.
3. A special meeting will be held on August 28, 2012 at 6:00pm with Lamont to present the winning bid for the sewer district.
4. Cornell Cooperate Extension contacted Michelle with interest in using the meeting/Board room on October 5, 2012. On Motion by Stuendel, seconded by Backus, to allow them the use the meeting room for that day.
   Vote: All AYES, Motion Carried.
5. The pictures painted by Mr. Swartz were framed and hung.

Correspondence
None

Other
None

Abstract of Claims

On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for August 21, 2012 as follows:
General Fund:   $10,164.36
Highway Fund: $127,172.13
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reading back of the minutes:
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Backus, it was moved to accept the minutes as read back.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:02 pm.

Next Regular meeting will be September 10, 2012 at7:00 in the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.

Michelle Phoenix                 Date August 21, 2012
Town of Tompkins
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.

Present:

1. William Layton – Supervisor
2. Howard Buttel – Councilperson
3. Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
4. Peggy Backus – Councilperson
5. Carl Stuendel – Councilperson

Others:

1. Ronald VanValkenburg – Hwy Superintendent
2. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk
3. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper to the supervisor

Pledge to the flag was led by Peggy Backus

Guest Speakers:
None

Minutes Approval:
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Board meeting held on June 11, 2012.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:
Town Clerk’s Report:
On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk’s monthly report for June 2012.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report:
The Town’s monthly financial report was presented by Nancy Roberts and reviewed by the board.
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s July 9, 2012 Financial Report.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Report – Planning Board
Minutes for the May’s planning board meeting were read by Michelle.
[Click HERE for PDF of May 10, 2012 Planning Board meeting minutes.]

Report – Assessor
None

Report – Highway Superintendent

1. Liquid calcium was spread on 6/22/2012 on Chamberlin Brook, Hathaway Pond Rd., and ½ of Readburn Mountain Rd. More will possibly be spread on 7/10/2012.
2. For the EWP-funded roadwork to proceed, signatures from landowners will need to be received and notarized.
3. Roadwork has been done on Carcass Brook and Chase Brook; will be starting on Roods Creek.
4. 2in Top is done on Higley and East View Rd, also a spot on Dryden and Walton Mt. Roads.
5. The new truck has been at Wayne’s Welding for 3 weeks.
6. Mowing is going slow.
7. Ron approached the board with estimates for sealing Walton Mt., Ferris Dean, and Dryden. This will take apx. 521 ton of stone. Board advised Ron to get figures for the board to review at the next meeting or before.
8. Summer help has painted the Town Building inside walls.

Report – Dog Control Officer
DCO and Judge are attempting to meet to come up with a solution for the unlicensed dogs.

Report – Supervisor

1. Bill advised the board that the Planning Board has submitted two checks to the town clerk, one check was over a year old and the other was over 4 months old. The Check that was a year old was unable to be deposited but the other was. Bill will discuss this issue with the planning board.
2. Steve Brown had approached Bill with interest in setting up a walking trail to the Fire Tower on Rock Rift. He would like to open the fire tower for people to view. Steve will look into associations that may be able to make this possible and to keep any liability away from the town.
3. On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to pass Resolution 22-2012, which states that the Town of Tompkins Town Board hereby approves and accepts the Emergency Response Plan. Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.
4. Picture Frames – The paintings by Mr. Schwartz will be placed in frames from the frame store in Delhi.
5. Tentative meeting date change for August’s Town board meeting will be August 9^th at 6PM providing its ok with Lamont.    [Update:  Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at 6PM]
6. Received a notice from Excellus proposing a raise in rates to 14.7%.
7. Gravel Permits paperwork is being done; next step is to go to the gravel bank and map it out. Anyone interested in going are welcome.
8. Carl discussed the abandonment of the portion of Rock Rift and how the process should get started.

Correspondence:
Received a letter from Joe Tarantino in response to the dust issue on his road he stated that the calcium that was laid this year did not work and he would like the entire road paved or oil be laid.
Bill will contact Joe and let him know this year nothing can be done but the board will discuss possible options for next year.
Ron stated he will lay another load of calcium this year.

Other:
None

Abstract of Claims:
On motion by Backus, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for July 9, 2012 as follows:
General Fund: $4,195.13
Highway Fund: $85,301.25
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reading back of the minutes:
On motion by Backus, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to accept the minutes as read back.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 pm

Next meeting will be tentatively @ 6:00 pm on August 9, 2012 at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.    [Update:  Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at 6PM]

Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk