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 7:07 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 of Tompkins Assessor
5. Henry Lamont – Lamont Engineers
6. Michael Jonker – LDVD Operations Inc.
7. Nate Hendricks – CWC

Pledge to the flag was led by Tim LaTourette.

Bid Opening for Gravel Crushing:  
Seward Sand & Gravel – $3.10 ton / 4.65 yard for 10,000 ton
Carver – $3.05 Ton for 10,000 ton
Clark – $3.75 Ton
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel to accept bids from Seward and Carver and to let Ron use his discretion on which of the two companies to accept being dependent on the time they can start crushing.

Guest Speakers:
Nate Hendricks – CWC
Nate reviewed with the Board the progress with the construction on the sewer district.
Nate also explained that it’s time to discuss the operation and maintenance of the sewer system upon completion and that it is the Towns responsibility to hire a firm or individual to maintain the system.

Kevin Young – Young and Summers
Kevin discussed the operation and maintenance cost of the system once it is up and running and that the Board will have to come up with a budget for the operation and maintenance costs, this budget will need to be approved by NYC

Henry Lamont & Mike Jonker – Lamont Engineers and LVDV Operations Inc.
Henry and Mike presented the board with an updated operation and maintenance proposal with a NYS DEC certified operator service provider for the Trout Creek Community Wastewater system.

Minutes Approval:
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the August 20, 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 Backus, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk/Tax Collector monthly report for August 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report –
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Backus, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial Audit dated September 9, 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Planning Board – None

Assessor –
August On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette to appoint Wendy Layton as Town of Tompkins Assessor for a 6 year term. The term will start on October 1, 2013 and will end on September 30, 2019.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried

Highway Superintendent –

1. Working the following roads – Faulkner, Chamberlain Brook, Chase Brook, Carcass Brook and the upper end of Dryden Road. Still need to work Readburn and Fletcher Hollow.
2. Scott drove the Backhoe through Rock Rift too check the condition of the road and stated he had to go real slow. There will be some pipes that need to be changed.
3. Carroll Hill – Working with FEMA to get the road damage covered from storm event.
4. Trucks have been painted and the second one is done, waiting until next year to do the rest.
5. Still in the process of getting prices for the Bed and snow plow on the new truck.

Dog Control Officer – None

Supervisor –

1. NYC Settlement, Kevin Young was here and stated he reviewed and re wrote some sections of the settlement and has sent it back to NYC for approval of changes.
2. Resolution 12 – 2013
   On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel to approve the adoption of the Delaware County Multi-Jurisdictional All-Hazards mitigation plan update.
   Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried
3. Bill presented the board with various wages for FEMA Administration Fees from other Delaware County Towns. After much discussion a motion was made by Buttel, 2^nd by LaTourette to pay Administration fees of $20.00 per hour after 10 hrs per event to the FEMA administrators.
   Vote: All AYE’s – Motion Carried.
4. 2014 Tentative Budget was presented and reviewed by the Board. On Motion by Stuendel, Seconded by Backus to approve presented 2014 Tentative Budget.
   Vote: All AYE’s – Motion Carried.
5. Bill stated that he had a new sign made for the Cannonsville Cemetery by Jamie Mullineaux, costing $200.00.

Correspondence: – None

Other: – None

Abstract of Claims:
On motion by Backus, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for September 9, 2013 as follows:
General Fund: $4591.98
Highway Fund: $21917.12
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

On Motion by Layton, Seconded by Backus it was moved to adjourn the meeting at 11:12 pm
Vote: All AYES- Motion Carried

Next month’s meeting will be changed to Tuesday October 15^th at 7:00pm.
________________________________
Date: September 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 7:00 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 of Tompkins Assessor

Pledge to the flag was led by Howie Buttel.

Guest Speakers: None

Minutes Approval:
On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to approve the minutes of the July 8, 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 Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk/Tax Collector monthly report for July 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report:
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Backus, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial Audit dated August 20, 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Planning Board – None

Assessor – August 20, 2013 Assessor report was provided to Board for review.

Highway Superintendent

1. Working in gravel bank for DEC Inspection – Required repairs have been made and approved by DEC.
2. Abe Boice & Bullock Hill road’s have had 2 inch top done and now are waiting to be sealed.
3. Grader broke down and is being worked on. Ron questioned having Castleview road also done with the      cost of apx $20,000.
4. Some equipment repairs have been done.
5. Mowing and weed eating has been done.
6. Pipe on Mormon Hollow by Kehr residence has been done. FEMA was here today and they will be reviewing it to determine if it will be paid for from the rain event we had.
7. Rip – Rap area on Mormon Hollow is complete.
8. Boom mowing has been done on Mormon Hollow
9. Have helped Town of Walton and Town of Franklin seal roads. Currently helping Town of Franklin with 2 inch pug mill.
10. Chamberlain Brook in the area where the rip-rap was done by LaFever has needed some repair.
11. Carcass Brook has had some trees cut.
12. Chase Brook has had trees and chipping done.
13. New truck came in on 8/12/2013 and is currently sitting in Highway garage – Needs steps, mud flaps and Ron is currently getting prices on box and plow. Ron would also like to purchase 5 more rims and winter tires.
14. Ron advised the board the contract with County for plowing is up in October. – Layton discussed with Ron of the possibility of the County adding additional roads for plowing due to the County Building in Sidney Center closing.

Report – Dog Control Officer –

1. Numerous calls for the month of July. All were able to be taken care of over the phone.
2. Received a call from a resident due to neighbor’s dog killing pet ducks. A harboring letter was sent out to the owner of dog giving them 14 days to license dog. The resident owning the ducks was also advised of their rights if the dog continues to harm/kill the animals.

Report- Supervisor

1. Lillian Brown from the Walton Reporter had called questioning the status of the fire tower – Per Steve Brown it is in the states hands.
2. At the Public Works meeting the discussion of closing the Sidney Center DPW building and where the Sidney Center crew would now work out of. A discussion also took place on having Town of Tompkins and Town of Masonville cover the plowing of roads that Sidney Center does and being reimbursed by the County.
3. Wayne Reynolds from DPW stated that the Town does not need to put salt down on the roads Tompkins currently maintains in the winter. He stated that grit was acceptable and was up to the Town.
4. A copy of the stipulation to settle the NYC Litigation relating to the assessment of the Cannonsville Reservoir property was sent by R. Beebe and after being reviewed it was found that at this time the agreement will not be signed due to many items being unclear.
5. Department of Watershed affairs Contract. The United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) has identified project(s) in your town they feel is/are eligible for funding under their Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP).  This program is the result of Hurricane Irene and or Tropical Storm Lee and provides 75% of the funds necessary to address the failure(s) identified.  Inside the New York City watershed, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection has agreed to provide the balance of the funding (25%) on projects they approved.  However, outside the watershed as well as a limited number inside the watershed, the responsibility for that match falls to the towns where the failure occurred.  To aid in local response, Delaware County was awarded an Empire State Development (ESD) grant to provide funding to those municipalities where the devastating floods of 2011 occurred and as a result the county will be able to cover the 25% match.

On Motion by Stuendel, Seconded by LaTourette to sign the contract between Delaware County and The Town of Tompkins to enable the Town of Tompkins to be reimbursed to cover the 25% match.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Correspondence: –
Chamber of Commerce membership – The board declined to join.

Other:
CWMP
On Motion by LaTourette, Seconded by Backus, it was moved to approve CWC payment #8.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

Change order #4 – On Motion by Stuendel, Seconded by Buttel it was moved to approve change order #4.
Vote: All AYE’s – Motion Carried.

A Letter was sent out to LaTourette from LaFever about the plumbing issue. LaTourette stated he had received the letter and also an agreement to sign stating he was happy with what he had done to fix his plumbing issue he just needed to get it signed in front of a notary and sent it back.

Linda Scott / Court Clerk is in need of a updated computer. On motion by Layton, Seconded by Buttel it was approved to have Linda look into what exactly she needs and to go ahead and purchase the computer.
Vote: All AYE’s – Motion Carried

Today Ron, Nancy, Bill met with FEMA, NYS and HPA. It was discussed that being Ron and Nancy are the Towns FEMA Administrative, they could get paid for administrative fees. In the past it was discussed that the board agreed to come up with a set amount to pay them. Before anything is set Layton will check with other towns and see what they pay for FEMA Administration.

A discussion took place on the Town of Tompkins paying the Hancock Fire District to cover areas in our Town. Michelle and Bill have stated to look into this and will continue to investigate why this is being done and if it can be changed to have Trout Creek Fire Company cover their own District.

Abstract of Claims
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for August 20, 2013 as follows:
General Fund: $8656.65
Highway Fund: $162,523.42
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

On Motion by Layton, Seconded by Backus it was moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:54 pm
Vote: All AYES- Motion Carried

Next meeting will be held on September 9, 2013 at 7:00pm.

Date: August 20, 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 Arrived at 7:03
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. Brian Albanese – Town Resident

Pledge to the flag was led by Ronald VanValkenburg.

Guest Speakers:
Brian was here to observe.

Minutes Approval:
On motion by Buttel, seconded by Layton, it was moved to approve the minutes of the June 10, 2013 Board Meeting.
Vote: 3 AYEs – Backus, Layton, Buttel
1 Abstain – Stuendel
1 Absent – LaTourette
Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:
Town Clerk / Tax Collector Report:
On motion by Buttel, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk/Tax Collector monthly report for June 2013.
It was also noted that the Building Inspector report heading was labeled Town of Masonville. Layton will point this out to Joe Reynolds.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report:
On motion by Backus, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial Audit dated July 08, 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Planning Board – None

Assessor – July 8, 2013 Assessor report was provided to Board for review.

Highway Superintendent –

1. Mowing is being done – Knives had to be changed on the mower
2. All the gravel has been hauled over here from the gravel bank in Afton. Ron requested crushing more to have on hand due to all the flooding that has been occurring lately.
3. Grader broke down and is being worked on.
4. The paving on Abe Boice Rd and Bullock Hill Rd. was put on hold due to the weather.
5. EWP project on Pine Swamp has started, Ron was unsure when other EWP Projects will start.
6. 3 Truck have gone to Ben Funk for minor repair and Ron is unsure what the bill will be when they are complete.
7. Ron Meg with FEMA Representative for rain event and had shown them the damage on Carrol Hill and the Pipe on Mormon Hollow by the Kehr residence. At this time it has not been declared by the Government but has by DEC, Ron is pretty sure the Government will be declaring.
8. Ron questioned if the Board wanted to keep the summer help on. After discussion the board agreed to give the summer help 2 more weeks of work.
9. Ron submitted a purchase request for dust control from Suit Kote and it was approved.
10. New Truck is on order and when he gets here it will need a new box and plow. Ron Stated he will get those prices to bring back to the board.

Dog Control Officer –

1. Rabies clinic was a success
2. Received a call about a dog covered in feces, DCO spoke with owner and they cleaned up the dog
3. Received a message on DCO answering machine about a dog barking. Returned call and left message. Have not heard anymore from complainant.
4. Town Clerk received a call about a dog running on a resident’s property that was very skinny and had worms and possible mange. Town Clerk told resident whose dog it may be and the Resident stated she knew them and would call them themselves and that the Town Clerk or DCO don’t need to take any further steps.
5. Received a corrected agreement from HCHS that need to be resigned. On Motion by Stuendel, seconded by Layton, it was moved to approve new contract from HCHS.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

Supervisor –

1. Bill explained the differences in the building permit prices after speaking with Building inspector Joe Reynolds
2. Received a letter from NYS DOT for speed reduction on Co Rt 27 between Co Rt 47 to St Hwy 10. Speed limit will now be 45 mph in that area.

Correspondence: – NONE

Other:

Pictures for Town Building will cost apx $1100.00 for 55 pictures we will pay as bunches get done of each hamlet

On Motion by Layton, Seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to approve CWC payment #7.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

The School house has been cleaned in preparation for the reunion. Still waiting on the part to repair the hot water heater.

5k Run for the Delaware County Fair donation. On motion by Backus, Seconded by Layton, to donate $100.00 to pay for the shirts.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

CWMP – Questioned LaTourette how the repair was coming on his water lines. LaTourette stated he fixed them himself and was happy with that.

The Hancock Fire District had misplaced the check the Town wrote them back in March. A Second check has sense been sent and that too still has not been cashed. Layton is going to look into this again.

Abstract of Claims

On motion by Backus, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for July 8, 2013 as follows:
General Fund: $5341.29
Highway Fund: $32610.64
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

On Motion by Backus, Seconded by Layton, it was moved to postpone August’s meeting to August 20, 2013 at 7:00 pm
Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried

Meeting adjourned at 8:18pm

 
Date: July 8, 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. Tammy Wagner – Town Resident
7. Dave E Stanton – Town Property owner
8. Clayton Stanton – Observer
9. Shannon Stanton – Helms – Town Resident

Pledge to the flag was led by Backus.

Guest Speakers:
Chris Yacobucci – Chris gave a brief review on the status of the CWMP and answered any questions that anyone had.  Chris also provided the Board with the status of the Storm water Retrofit Program and explanation of the Short form Agreement for engineering and/or planning services of said program for the board to review. After review and explanation of the agreement a motion was made by LaTourette to accept and approve said agreement, seconded by Stuendel.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

Tammy Wagner – Approached the board questioning why the Town does not have a leash law. The Board explained that this was brought to the board in the past and at that time they decided they were against passing a leash law due to this being a Country Community.

Dave Stanton – Dave stated he was not happy with the ditch that was dug by his property and that he would be filling it in and wants the Town to leave it alone when he is done. After much discussion on the matter the Board advised Mr. Stanton to come back to a future Board meeting with Rules and regulations stating that he as a land owner would be able to do work to a Town Road on his own and showing there will be no liability to the Town if he was to do this. After Mr. Stanton provides the required paperwork a meeting will be set up between him, Superintendant Ron VanValkenburg and Supervisor Layton to discuss this issue further.

Mr. Stanton also stated that the Town needs to stop the use of Town owned vehicles being used for personal use. Also would like the Town to stop non employees riding in Town owned Vehicle’s.

Shannon Stanton/ Helms – Introduced herself as a new Town Resident that had purchased the Kessler farm on Pine Swamp Road. Shannon wanted to give thanks for being considerate with the mowing and ditch repair around her property.

EWP Bid Awards-
On motion by Layton, Seconded by LaTourette it was moved to accept the low bid’s on each individual EWP projects.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

1 Ton Bid Award
Two bids were received – West Herr in the amount of 35,202.00. Scoville Meno in the amount of $42,567.
On motion by Buttel, Seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to accept the low bid from West Herr providing a review of the bid specs is accurate.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

VanValkenburg, Buttel, and LaTourette will review bid specs on June 11, 2013 at 6:00pm.

Minutes Approval:
Stuendel questioned if a resolution was made for the CWT member seating last month, if so it was left out of May’s minutes. After further discussion it was found that no resolution went out with the nomination form and the minutes would stay as they were wrote.
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Layton, it was moved to approve the minutes of the May 13, 2013 Board Meeting.
Vote: All AYEs – 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 May 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report:
On motion by Backus, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s monthly financial Audit dated June 10, 2013.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.
 

Other Reports:
Planning Board – None

Assessor – June 10, 2013 Assessor report was provided to Board for review.

Report – Highway Superintendent

1. Ron submitted a purchase request for Suite Kote for cold patch in the amount of $3230.00
2. Scotts Trucks is at Tepco getting painted and sand Blasted.
3. 2006 International is at Ben Funk for an antifreeze problem
4. Dana has put corner posts and Box hinges on 2 trucks.
5. Ditching, boom mowing and mowing is being done.
6. Cold Patching is done.
7. Suite Kote has been here and has laid Magnesium Chloride on all dirt roads in the Town.

Report – Dog Control Officer –

1. The contract for the Heart of the Catskills has been signed
2. The Rabies Clinic has yet to be set up. Layton advised that the County Public Health nurses are currently working on setting it up.

Report- Supervisor

1. City snow report shows we will be getting $45,182.99 sometime in August.
2. Received a flag from NYMER and it was hung at the School House.
3. Received a letter from Schaffer showing the material costs of the work done on Roods Creek to repair the road in the amount of $56,000. Ron would still like to have a meeting with Schaffer’s to discuss ware and tear of Roods Creek from their trucks.
4. Received a donation request from the Delaware County Fair 5k run committee. After a brief discussion on where Donations would come out of the budget, Bill will contact other Towns and see what they do with matters like this.
5. Received a Thank you letter from The American Legion Guntown Post 1554 for the Donation of 400.00 for veteran services.
6. Bill received a call inquiring on who is responsible to do the upkeep on the grave flags at the Cannonsville Cemetery. Bill is going to pick up some flags to replace the ruined ones currently there.
7. Received an inquiry asking the Town to pay for a resident child to go to horseback riding lessons. It was explained that the Town only provides payment for children in the Town of Tompkins to attend 1 week of day camp or 1 week of overnight 4H Camp and to those children that can’t attend 4H camp the Town agreed to reimburse the fee the Town of Tompkins residence receive when their children attend one session of swimming lessons in Walton.
8. Bill had received a Memo letter from Bob Beebe informing that the NYC Comptroller has approved the settlement on the reservoir litigation. But before the Town agrees to anything the Board would like to see a copy of the agreement to review.
9. A response letter was typed up by the Town Clerk in response to Janet Greene inquiring in the use of the School House for their reunion. The board approved the response letter and agreed it could be sent out to Mrs. Green.

Correspondence: – NONE

Other:
Stuendel questioned the process of approving monthly meeting minutes. After a short discussion on motion by LaTourette, Seconded by Layton, it was moved to have the approval of minute process go as follows
Minutes will not get read back at end of current meeting.
Minutes will be written up to by Town Clerk and sent out to members via Email for correction by board members
Minutes will get corrected per requests of Board members.
Minutes will get approved with or without further corrections as following month’s board meeting.
After Motion to approve prior months meeting minutes the Minutes will then be allowed to be posted on the Towns Website.
Vote:
Buttel – AYE
LaTourette – AYE
Stuendel – NAY
Backus – AYE
Layton – AYE
Motion Carried.

On Motion by Stuendel, Seconded by Layton it was moved to approve CWC payment #6.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

Abstract of Claims
On motion by Backus, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for June 10, 2013 as follows:
General Fund: $3753.81
Highway Fund: $36243.69
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

On Motion by Backus, Seconded by LaTourette it was moved to adjourn meeting at 9:58
Vote: All AYE’s – Motion Carried

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

Date: June 10, 2013
Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk

Town of Tompkins Public Hearing

Administration and Enforcement of the NY State

Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code

Local Law 2-2013

May 13, 2013

The Public Hearing for the Administration and Enforcement of the NY State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code was called to order at 6:47pm by supervisor Layton in the Town meeting room.

Present:

1. William Layton – Supervisor
2. Peggy Backus – Councilperson – Arrived at 6:50
3. Carl Stuendel – Councilperson

Others:

1. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk
2. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper to the Supervisor

Questions/Comments:
None

Public Hearing adjournment
On motion by Layton and seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to close the public hearing at 7:00pm
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

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. Wendy Layton – Town Assessor
4. Joe Reynolds – Town Building Inspector

Pledge to the flag was led by Joe Reynolds

Opening of bids Lawn Mowing:
Bids received:
Adam Stanton – $90 per mow
Dan Gehl – $74 per mow
Eric Vantyle – $140.40 per mow
All Seasons – $90 per mow
Chris Goodrich – $75 per mow
On motion by Buttel to accept bid received from Dan Gehl in the amount of $74.00 per mow, Seconded by Layton,
Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried

Guest Speakers:
Carrie Higley – Was here on behalf of the old School House on Bridge St. She stated there was interest in a Community reunion of all old pupils that had attended the school and they had set up a tentative date of August 11, 2013 and was looking for the Board’s approval. She also stated there was interest in updating the school and doing repairs and that she had been in touch with Cliff Crouch’s office with questions of any grants that may be available to help. Carrie stated that Crouch’s office would need further information on the school and when Carrie had that she would get back to them.
On Motion by Layton, seconded by LaTourette, to approve the reunion and to appoint Carrie Higley Chairmen to upfront the restoration and grant process for the School house.
Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried.
 

Joe Reynolds – was present to answer any questions the board might have regarding a proposed Law 2 of 2013 adopting NYS Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code as the Town of Tompkins Building Code.  There were no questions.  The Town Clerk will be posting the notice for Public Hearing regarding this matter to be held May 13, 2013 at 6:45pm.

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

Monthly Financial Reports:
Town Clerk / Tax Collector Report:
On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk/Tax Collector monthly report for March 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 8, 2013 Financial report.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Planning Board – None
 

Assessor –
Wendy presented the board with her monthly Assessor report. Wendy discussed that NY State would be taking-over the administration of STAR (School Tax Relief) program from the Towns and their Sole Assessors; and that property owners would have to file online with the NYS Tax Department for future school tax exemptions.

Highway Superintendent –

1. A little plowing and sanding has been done in the month of March
2. Sweeping of the roads has been done
3. Serviced and repaired some equipment
4. Painted plows and they have been stored in the creamery
5. Brush has been cut on some roads
6. Opened seasonal roads early
7. Questioned when summer help can start
8. CHIPS money has increased this year
9. Presented quotes for painting boxes on trucks with an approximate cost of $4500 per truck. Quotes were from Truck Body Specialist and Tepco.
10. Presented quotes to replace 1 – 1Ton Truck
    On motion by LaTourette, Seconded by Stuendel, to approve putting a 2013 1 Ton chassis and cab out to bid.
    Vote: All Ayes – Motion Carried

Dog Control Officer –

1. Nothing solved with using Delhi humane society. Hoping to hear back within the week.
2. We will need to renew the contract with Crescent Pet Lodge if nothing is heard with Dehli.
3. One dog was picked up around the reservoir by the Walton DCO due to our DCO being unavailable. DCO Sprague picked up dog from Walton and it was taken to Crescent.
4. Discussed the “redemption fee” owed by the dog-owner to the Town of Tompkins for dogs that have been picked up and taken to the pound.

Supervisor –

1. Stuendel moved the acceptance, Seconded by Backus, of Resolution #8‑2013,  the Deployed Military Extension, which grants a 90-day interest/penalty free period to make payment upon outstanding property tax bills incurred during an absence caused by combat or hazardous duty deployment.
   Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried
2. Backus moved the acceptance, Seconded by Layton, of Resolution #9‑2013, the Disposal of Wood Generated as Result of Town Road Activity.
   Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried
3. LaTourette moved the acceptance, Seconded Buttel, of Resolution #10‑2013,  Town Tax Collector appointment and abolishment (appointment of Town Clerk Michelle Phoenix as Tax Collector; and abolishment of the elected office of Tax Collector).
   Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried.
4. A discussion on Sexual Harassment, Harassment, and Computer & Internet policies was tabled until next month’s meeting.
5. The photos from bygone days in the Town of Tompkins that had been sent out to be scanned, blown-up and framed are almost done and will be picked up soon.
6. Bill discussed the process of approval of monthly minutes. It was decided that the minutes will no longer be read at the end of the meeting for approval. They will be sent out by Email to members for review; and then approved at the following month’s meeting.

Correspondence: –
Received letter from our NY State Senator John J. Bonacic stating he was in agreement with our Resolution Supporting of the Second Amendment.

Other:
CWMP – A short discussion on what happened at the kick off meeting. A Change order was presented for approval. On Motion by Backus, Second by Stuendel, to approve the changes and be signed by Layton
Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried

Abstract of Claims:
On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for April 8, 2013 as follows:
General Fund: $8381.60
Highway Fund: $20248.36
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Meeting Adjourned at 9:57 pm

 
The meeting for May 13, 2013 will be held at the Town Meeting Room, at 7:00pm Trout Creek, NY
 

Date: April 8, 2013
Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 6:52 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. Joe Reynolds – Building Inspector
6. Luther Higley – Town of Tompkins Fire Dist Commissioner
7. James Baker – Town of Tompkins Fire Dist Commissioner
8. Wendy Layton – Assessor

Pledge to the flag was led by Tim LaTourette.

Guest Speakers:  [See Below ‑‑ Item 8 of the Highway Superintendent’s Report]

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

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

Supervisor’s Report:
The Town’s 2012 yearly financial report was presented by Nancy Roberts and reviewed by the board during the Annual Audit of books and was accepted as the Towns Monthly report.
On motion by Backus, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s 2012 Annual Financial Report as the monthly report.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:
Planning Board – None.

Assessor – Wendy Presented and reviewed her monthly financial report with the board.

Building Inspector – Joe presented the board with a new Building Permit Fee Schedule.
Upon review from the board
On motion by Stuendel, Seconded by Buttel, to accept the fee schedule with the following changes.
Change line #3 to $175.00
On commercial Construction:
Change line #1 to $250.00
Remove line #2
Change line #3 to $100.00
Accept all other figures without change.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried

Tax Collector – Michelle provided the board with a tax collection report for the board to review.

Report – Highway Superintendent

1. Questioned if the board had heard anything about the permit for the gravel bank. Bill stated he has heard nothing new but will look into.
2. Plowing contracts will run out on August 31, 2013, Ron stated that need to be reviewed before signing new Contracts when they come.
3. The pipe on Mormon Hollow by the Kehr residence needs to be changed. Ron stated that 40ft galvanized squash pipe costs about $6,700 and 30ft galvanized squash pipe costs about $5,200. Ron stated these are not exact prices. The Board suggested that Ron get prices and bring back to next meeting.
4. Plowed and sanded when we had snow.
5. Cutting brush
6. 2006 went to Milton cat to have the ECM board replaced.
7. They have plowed 24 times this season that is up from 14 times last season.
8. Ron Discussed how he would like to have the Fire District get their own tanks for fuel. After much discussion between the board and Commissioners Higley and Baker. It was decided at this time things with the FD getting fuel will stay the same but the Commissioners will find all keys that FD members may have in their possession and return them. Also when FD needs fuel in an emergency and Kyle McLaughlin is on the FD Call he will assist in filling the trucks. There will also need to be two signatures on the fuel sheets, one from the FD member getting the fuel and one from the Town employee. The Board also advised the commissioners to look into getting fuel and tanks for year 2014 and add it to their budget.
9. Ron provided the board a write up in the paper from another Delaware County town about Friendly Winter Reminders. – Carl will put the Town of Tompkins Winter Friendly Reminder on the website.

Report – Dog Control Officer – None

Report- Supervisor

1. Received a letter from Bob Beebe stating that the City is in the process of approving his template. If for any reason this negotiation fails, the Town of Tompkins will want to make use of the TLAP program admistered by CWC.  The Town asked CWC for a one month extension on the enrollment deadline.  CWC and NYC granted this extension.
2. The Town Sign was installed and it was discovered that the installer had hit the telephone wire and the sign needed to be removed and phone line fixed. The sign is now back in and if there is going to be a cost for the damaged phone line it will go to the installer of the sign. Nothing has been heard about the installation about the other sign for the other end of town.
3. NYMER Inspector has been here and most went well though there are some minor issues to be addressed. NYMER will send a report on issues to address.
4. Received a letter from the Delaware County Election board about the possibility of closing Kelsey’s Polling place. Carl stated he will address this with Paul Bartholomew.
5. Bill discussed with Ron on if Ron had taken any consideration on doing something with the dust issue on Chamberlin Brook. After much discussion nothing was resolved.
6. Bill called the Association of Towns about the FEMA event Administration fees. After much discussion between board members, they now have a better understanding how to use a portion of the awarded Administration fees to compensate town employees who do the administrative work for a FEMA event.  The board realizes they may have done things incorrectly (or at least could have done a better job of making things transparent) with regard to the payment of town employees who did the administrative work for several prior FEMA events. In the future if there is a FEMA event the board will discuss a rate of pay for administration fees for Ron and Nancy who have been appointed as the town’s FEMA Administrators for the year 2013.

Correspondence: – None

Other:
Amended Sub Division Regulations
On motion by Stuendel, seconded by LaTourette it was resolved that the Board of the Town of Tompkins hereby determines that the proposed Local Law No. 1 of 2013 is hereby adopted as local law entitled “Amended Town of Tompkins Land Subdivision Regulations”, and be it further Resolved that the Town Clerk is hereby directed to take such actions as are necessary to implement this resolution and effect adoption of the Local Law.
Vote: All AYES
Motion Carried

Michelle provided the board with copies of TC CWMP and Storm Water Retrofit Program, December 2012 and January 2013, monthly progress meeting minutes for review.

Abstract of Claims
On motion by Backus, seconded by Layton, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for
December 2012 as follows:
General Fund: $54,512.49
Highway Fund: $15,428.87
 

January 2013 as follows:
General Fund: 25,419.93
Highway Fund: 7,246.33
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 9:30pm

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

Date: January 14, 2012
Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk