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Category Archives: Minutes Town Board

Town Board Meeting – March 12, 2012

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. Bill 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. Joe Reynolds – Town Building Inspector
  5. Shane Strong – Cobleskill Stone Products
  6. Ducan Martin – Delaware County Planning Dept.

 

Pledge to the flag was led by Peggy Backus

 

Minutes Approval:

On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Backus, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Board meeting held on February 13, 2012.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:

Town Clerks 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 February 2012.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 

Supervisor’s Report:

The Town’s monthly financial report was reviewed with Nancy Roberts, bookkeeper to the Supervisor.

On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s March 12, 2012 Financial Report.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 

Stone & Pipe Bids

Received Stone bids from Cobleskill Stone and Carver.

On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to accept bid of crushed limestone from Cobleskill Stone for the amounts of

Crushed limestone

1a – $19.25 ton, 1B – $17.55 ton, 1st – $17.55 ton, 1&2 Blend – $18.35 ton.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 

Received bids for pipe from Chemung supply & Jess F. Howes

On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to accept both bids from Chemung supply and Jess F. Howes amounts of

Chemung Supply

All pipe in 20’ Lengths -12”- $4.59/foot – Bands $5.53, 15” – $5.97 – $ Bands $7.19, 18” – $8.83 – Bands $10.64, 24” – $13.77 – Bands $16.58, 30” – $21.19 – Bands $40.80, 36” – $27.14 – Bands $52.25, 42” – $37.80 – Bands $72.80, 48” – $46.14 – Bands $88.87, 60” – $76.50 – Bands $14.33

Jess F Howes

15” – $7.10 – Bands $8.49, 18” – $10.49 – Bands $12.19, 24” – $15.95 – Bands $19.09, 30” – $25.30 – Bands $45.40, 36” – $31.26, Bands – $55.20, 48” – $52.20 – Bands Attached.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 

Guest Speakers:

Duncan Martin – Delaware County Planning Department.

Duncan addressed the board to discuss the Flood Damage Prevention Law.

In summary, the proposed Local law repeals and supersedes Local law No. 1 of the year 1987 and adopts the new law recommended by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation in order to maintain the community’s eligibility to participate in the National Flood Insurance program. The proposed Local Law includes updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps.

Duncan stated the board will have to set up a public hearing for April’s Town Board Meeting and that he would send the Town Clerk all necessary paperwork.

 

Other Reports:

Report – Planning Board

February minutes of the Planning Board were read by Carl.   [Click  HERE for PDF of Planning Board Minutes.]

 

Report – Assessor

None

 

Report – Highway Superintendent

  1. Ron and Nancy have met with FEMA rep. and thus far $58,000 has been approved for damages; of that the town will receive 75%. They still need to meet on damages to Readburn and Rock Rift.
  2. Ron has had Dana Wagner make a new fuel tank.  A new tank would cost $1178 and with Dana making them it will cost half of that.
  3. More Brush has been cut on Finch Hollow.
  4. Snow plowing is down for the winter season this year to about half of what it was last year.
  5. Wings have been taken off the trucks and are being painted.
  6. The grit prices are the same as last year.

Ron has received gravel crushing prices from 3 separate companies and he would like to have10,000 tons crushed at the Town’s gravel bank in Afton. On motion by Buttel, seconded by Backus, it was moved to have Seward Sand and Gravel crush 10,000 ton of gravel. This amount should be enough to hold us  until the spring of 2014.

Vote: 4 AYEs (Buttel, LaTourette, Backus, Layton) – 1 Nay (Stuendel) – Motion carried.

  1.  Ron questioned about getting internet and a computer for the shop. A motion was made by Buttel, Seconded by LaTourette, to have the internet installed and to have the spare computer from the Town office buildings moved to the shop

Vote: All AYE’s – Motion Carried.

 

Report – Dog Control Officer

  1. Received a call about a dog struck by a vehicle on 206 and another one with it running loose. Picked up deceased dog and other dog, found owners and owners picked up both at DCO’s residence.
  2. Questioned how often the board would like enumeration done. Town Clerk will call other towns and see how often they do this.
  3. DCO and Judge to meet with each other and discuss the process they will be using on the summons for unlicensed dogs.

 

Report- Supervisor

  1. Ethics policy – Board to review and bring back questions and changes at Aprils meeting
  2. Hydrofracking – Presented by the Planning Board. Bill will confer with other towns and see what they are doing with this issue. Board to review this at Aprils meeting.
  3. Town of Tompkins signs – Drawings are being drawn up by Deb Flemming and she will get back to us when they are done.
  4. New printer and copier quotes shown – Board to look into this further and bring back to Aprils meeting.
  5. Union Negotiation Fact Finder Meeting – tentative date set up for March 20, 2012 at 6:00pm.  Board Members reviewed with no changes the  summary of information that will be given to the Fact Finder.  [March 13 Update: To accommodate the Fact Finder, meeting is now scheduled for March 27, 2012 at 6:00pm]
  6. Pictures for Town building. Helen Zandt has some personal ones and if board would like to see them she would come and show what she has. Will discuss this at April’s meeting.
  7. Helen Zandt discussed with Carl her interest in the school house being used to house town memorabilia.
  8. NYSEG lighting – Board decided it would be more cost effective to have the town do this themselves if they wanted it done.
  9. Lawn Mowing bids for the 2012 Season to go out in Walton Reporter – Same as last year.
  10. On Motion by Backus to accept the Justice 2011 yearly report and to add this to the January 9, 2012 annual audit of Affairs Minutes, 2nd by Stuendel, Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.
  11. Sewer System easements – Working on last 4 for signatures.  Some are in the Eminent Domain process.

 

Correspondence

Joe Reynolds – Building Inspector has received a letter from an individual questioning zoning in the town of Tompkins. He is interested in purchasing property on Hathaway Pond road and using it for a Spiritual retreat. The Board stated they have no Zoning laws and the only thing they can enforce is blocking of the roadway for emergency vehicle traffic. The Individual may also have to be sure he is not breaking any NYS health and safety laws. Joe may also want to be sure to let this individual know the town has no control over neighbors contacting law enforcement due to issues with noise.

 

Other

0

 

Abstract of Claims

On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for February 12, 2012 as follows: General Fund: $24,936.64, Highway Fund: $ 18,618.16

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 

Reading back of the minutes:

On motion by LaTourette and seconded by Backus, it was moved to accept the minutes as read back

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 

The meeting was adjourned at 10:00pm

Next meeting will be at 6pm on April 9, 2012 at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.

 

Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk

Town Board Meeting – Feb 13, 2012

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. Howard Buttel – Councilperson
  2. Tim LaTourette – Councilperson
  3. Peggy Backus – Councilperson
  4. Carl Stuendel – Councilperson

 

Others:

  1. Ronald VanValkenburg – Hwy Superintendent
  2. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk
  3. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper to the supervisor
  4. Joe Reynolds – Town Building Inspector

 

Pledge to the flag was led by Tim LaTourette

 

Minutes Approval:

On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Board meeting held on January 9, 2012.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

 

On motion by Stuendel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Board special meeting held on January 18, 2012.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

 

Monthly Financial Reports:

Town Clerks Report:

On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk’s monthly report for January 2012.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 

Supervisor’s Report:

The Town’s monthly financial report was reviewed with 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 Financial Report.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 

 

Guest Speakers:

Joe Reynolds

Joe approached the board to discuss a dispute that is currently going on with property owners on Apex Rd (NY 268). The neighbor to the property that is in debate had contacted Joe by letter requesting documents he would like to see related to the building process.  At that time Joe agreed to provide what he had on file to the individual that requested the information but also stated there would be a fee of $100. Joe has provided the board with the letter and the check from the individual. After much discussion on the items requested in the letter the board felt that this is not the Town’s responsibility to find and provide this information and might constitute a possible breach of privacy.  It was decided to return the check without documents.

 

 

Other Reports:

Report – Planning Board

October 2011, November 2011 and January 2012 minutes of the Planning Board were read by Michelle.
[For a single PDF containing the minutes for each of the three meetings click HERE.]

 

Report – Assessor

None

 

Report – Highway Superintendent

  1. Ron received a questionnaire from Delaware Co. Public Works for addition data collection and evaluation for Town roads with pipes having a span between 5 – 20 feet for future possible flood damage.
  2. Ron Received a letter from RAMPP stating they are working with FEMA and will be in our area to do flood studies
  3. Pipe and stone bids need to go in paper, Ron will meet with Michelle to get this done.
  4. From one of the past floods the Town had applied for grants for repairs on Pine Swamp and Chamberlin Brook, Ron stated that the one for Pine Swamp was on hold and the one for Chamberlin Brook had been put on the back burner because of      the Irene and Lee floods in September 2011. Ron inquired if the Town Board had heard any new updates on these grants.  No, they hadn’t.
  5. Ron inquired as to the Board’s thoughts on what accounts could money be drawn from for the sealing of the roads this year.
  6. Received a call from a resident on Roods Creek stating the Road was a mess from the heavy trucks and they were getting stuck. Ron investigated this and found that the trucks from Schaffer’s quarry were rutting up the road due to the warm weather we have been having. Ron met with Larry from Schaffer’s and Larry stated he would fix the road, Ron told Larry that if the repairs were not done he would have to put a weight limit on the road to spare the town in future road repair costs.
  7. Last week a large tree had come down on Carroll Hill due to the bank shifting and was taken care of.
  8. Ron inquired as to if the Board had heard anything from FEMA and if they would be sending a team for the flooding from Irene and Lee.  Nancy said she would try to contact them.
  9. John’s 2006 International had has needed to have repairs done
  10. Kyle’s 2006 International needed to have a lower half of the fuel tank and that has been repaired.
  11. Cut Brush and Chipped on Finch Hollow
  12. A check from the Insurance Company has been received for the repairs to the tailgate of the Truck that was damaged last month.
  13. Chris from the Fire Department asked if it would be ok for the Fire Department to use the Towns radio Frequency during the hours the Town is not working. Ron stated that would be ok and that it is a great opportunity for the Town and Fire Dept to have radio communication.
  14. Ron would like the Board to take into consideration the rising fuel costs when it comes to 2013 budget and how this will affect the repair of roads in the future.
  15. Ron received Gravel Crushing bids. They are as follows.

    16. Carver $2.90 per ton
    Clark $ 2.85 per ton
    Seward Sand and Gravel $ 2.75

 

 

Report – Dog Control Officer

  1. Have had Ag and Markets inspection and passed.

 

 

Report- Supervisor

  1. Bill called Gail Crane and she stated she would be Deputy Town Clerk.
  2. Boots will be purchased through Gifford’s
  3. Town Employees have to sign Labor Law forms and were passed out.
  4. A Fact Finder/Mediator was appointed and will be Zetla Elvi from Fish’s Eddy.
  5. Joe Reynolds has received drawings for sewer system buildings and has them in his office if anyone is interested.
  6. Letters have been sent out for the last 4 residents in the Sewer District that have not signed lateral easement agreements.  The letters to two of the residents were a final request to sign, and the other two were the first step of the eminent domain process.
  7. Town has received a quote from NYSEG for the new efficient lighting. Carl is going to review this and bring back to March’s meeting.
  8. The Town Justice’s yearly financial report/books were received but a difference was found between what the Town has collected and what the Justice books’ state. A motion by LaTourette to review the books again at March’s meeting until the difference can be explained, seconded by Stuendel

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried

 

 

Correspondence

None

 

Other

Tim approached the board asking if in the future the Fire Department could use the Towns Radio Tower to install a repeater when the Fire Department gets a frequency. The Board had no problem with this.

 

Abstract of Claims

On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for January 13, 2012 as follows: General Fund: $135,675.82, Highway Fund: $ 21,349.41

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 

 

Reading back of the minutes:

On motion by Stuendel and seconded by Backus, it was moved to accept the minutes as read back

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 

 

The meeting was adjourned at 9:37

Next meeting will be at 6pm on March 12, 2012 at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.

Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk

Special Board Meeting – Jan 18, 2012

The special monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 6:02 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. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk
  2. Ron VanValkenburg – Town Superintendent
  3. Kyle McLaughlin – Town of Tompkins Highway Employee
  4. Rick Gerlach – Representative for Ben Funk


Topic of Meeting: Purchasing of a 10 Wheeler dump truck/ Town Highway boot purchases/ Review of historic Photos 

Flag Salute was led by Ron VanValkenburg

Truck –

The discussion on the purchase of a dump truck started with Ron VanValkenburg stating that he had looked into getting 3 quotes for a truck, Ron had spoken with Delaware County Public Works Commissioner Wayne Reynolds and Wayne had stated that due to getting a truck through state bid 3 quotes will not be required.

A quote and specifications from Ben Funk Inc. through NAVISTAR (International) was presented by Rick Gerlach. The quote was reviewed by Town Board Members and questions were presented to Rick. Rick stated that State contracts ended December 31, 2011 and that because the town had received quote prior to that date the state contract will be extended for this quote. Many more questions on the truck that is of interest to be purchased were asked by the board to Rick Gerlach and the board received satisfactory answers.

The Board also questioned Ron and Kyle on what the problems were with the 1988 truck they were looking to replace. Ron and Kyle’s reply was that the truck has over 300,000 miles on it and is getting old and they felt they needed to replace it before problems occur. Kyle stated that the 88 had received a new motor and transmission and they have about 20,000 miles on them. It was stated the trucks body was in good shape and that there should be no problem selling it.

Ron stated that if the truck is ordered this week he would expect to see it the beginning to the middle of March. Before receiving the truck it will need to go to Wayne’s Welding to have body and plow work done there after it will be sent to Ben Funk to have some minor stuff done to it.

Ron wanted to remind the board that the decision needs to be made by the end of February 2012 before the prices go up.

Rick stated that if the Town decided to go ahead with the purchase a commitment letter would need to be drawn up.

After further discussion with the board a motion was made by LaTourette to purchase a 2013 7600 SFA 2010 (SF567) truck, Seconded by Stuendel.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Boots –

There was a discussion on where to purchase the safety boots for the Highway crew for this year. The board asked Ron to go back to the Highway crew and inquire where they would like to purchase their boots this year and bring their decision to the next board meeting.

Pictures –

Backus had inquired with numerous residents of the Town on if they had any old pictures for the board to review. Backus did receive a couple and the board reviewed and picked out a few to have copied and blown up to display on the wall of the Town Hall, this will be done through BOCES.  There will be more pictures received in the future for the board to review.

Reading back of the minutes:

On motion by LaTourette and seconded by Buttel, it was moved to accept the minutes as read back

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:07 PM

______________________________________________________________

Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk

Annual Meeting of the Board of Health – Jan 9, 2012

The Annual Meeting of the Board of Health was called to order at 6:15 PM in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY

 

Present:

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

 

Others:

  1. Ron VanValkenburg – Highway Superintendent
  2. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper
  3. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk

 

On Motion by Buttel seconded by Backus it was moved that Peggy Backus be appointed as President and Timothy LaTourette be appointed as Secretary of the board of Health.

Vote: All AYE’s

Motion Carried

Meeting adjourned at 6:20 PM

 

Michelle Phoenix

Town Clerk

Annual Audit of Books – Jan 9, 2012

The Annual Audit of the Affairs (cash books, etc) for the Supervisor, Town Clerk and Town Justice was called to order at 6:20 pm at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY

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

Others:
1. Ron VanValkenburg – Highway Superintendent
2. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper
3. Michelle Phoenix – Town Clerk

[PDFs are available for the year-end financials:

For the General Fund click – A-General Fund – Budget vs Actual-12-31-2011
For the Highway Fund click – DA-Highway Fund – Budget vs. Actual-12-31-2011
For the Balance Sheet click – Balance Sheet – 12-31-2011

The General Fund ended the year with $71,000 more than expected, and the Highway Fund ended with $67,000 more than expected. This was due to more revenue and fewer expenditures.  NR – Bookkeeper to the Supervisor]

On Motion by LaTourette seconded by Layton it was moved to take notice of the fact that the cashbooks, etc of the above mentioned officials except for the Town Justice were received and found to be in satisfactory to the best of their knowledge. The Town Justice books will be reviewed at the February Meeting.
Vote: All AYE’s
Motion Carried
Meeting adjourned at 7:20 PM

Michelle Phoenix
Town Clerk

Annual Reorganization Meeting – Jan 9, 2012

The Annual Reorganization meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:20 in the Town meeting room, Trout Creek, NY
Present:
1. William Layton-Supervisor
2. Carl Stuendel-Councilperson
3. Peggy Backus-Councilperson
4. Howard Buttel-Councilperson
5. Timothy LaTourette-Councilperson

Others:
1. Ronald VanValkenburg-Hwy Superintendent
2. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper to the Supervisor
3. Michelle Phoenix- Town Clerk

Designation of Banks: RESOLUTION # 1-2012
Resolved; on Motion by Stuendel seconded by Buttel it was moved o designate the National Bank & Trust Co and Community Bank as depositories for all funds held by the supervisor. Other depositories were designated as follows; Justice Johnson, Tax collector Merwin and Town Clerk Phoenix the National Bank of Delaware County for any and all monies they receive by virtue of their offices.
Vote: All AYEs
Motion Carried.

Official Newspaper: RESOLUTION #2-2012
Resolved; on Motion by LaTourette seconded by Stuendel it was moved to designate the Walton Reporter as the official newspaper during the year 2012 for the purpose of legal matters.
Vote: All AYEs
Motion Carried.

Appointments: RESOLUTION #3 – 2012
RESOLVED: On motion by Buttel seconded by Backus it was moved to appoint the following people to their respective positions as follows;
a. Building Inspector – Joseph Reynolds
b. Town Clerk and Registrar – Michelle Phoenix
c. Deputy Town Clerk and Deputy Registrar – Tabled until February Meeting
d. Historian – Helen Zandt
e. Dog Control Officer – Russell Sprague Jr.
f. Health Officer – Dr. Eric Dohner
g. Acting Court Clerk – Linda Scott
h. Bookkeeper – Nancy Roberts
i. Account Clerk – Linda Ramsey
Vote: ALL AYEs
Motion Carried.

Official Radio Station: RESOLUTION #4 – 2012
On motion by LaTourette seconded by Backus it was moved to designate the Walton Radio Station as the official radio during the year 2011 for the purpose of local announcement to the Town Residents.
Vote: ALL AYEs
Motion Carried.

Salaries:
On motion by LaTourette seconded by Stuendel it was moved that the Salaries of the Town officers for the year 2012 are fixed in the budget and that the Supervisor is authorized to pay the approved salaries.
Vote: All AYEs
Motion carried

Highway Expenditures:
On motion by Backus seconded by Buttel it was moved that the Highway Superintendent to be authorized to purchase items under $1,000 without a purchase order, any item over $1000 requires town purchase order and authorization by the town board.
Vote: All AYEs
Motion carried.

Delegate NYC Meeting:
On motion by Layton seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to NOT attend Annual Meeting in NYC due to high cost of attendance and this was not put in budget. No Delegate assigned.
Vote: ALL AYEs
Motion Carried

Meeting Dates:
On Motion by Buttel seconded by Stuendel it was moved to hold regular monthly meetings on the second Monday of every month at the Town Meeting Room Trout Creek, NY except for the November meeting which will be held the first Thursday following the General Election.
Vote: ALL AYES
Motion Carried

Adjourn:
On Motion by Stuendel, Seconded by Backus it was moved to adjourn.
Vote: ALL AYES
Motion Carried
The reorganization meeting was adjourned at 8:00pm

Michelle Phoenix
Town Clerk, Town of Tompkins

Town Board Meeting – Jan 9, 2012

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 8:00 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. Brian Albanese – Vice Chair Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, Town Resident

Pledge to the flag was led by Carl Stuendel

Minutes Approval:
On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Board meeting held on December 12, 2011.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:
Town Clerks Report:
On motion by Buttel, seconded by Backus, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk’s monthly report for December 2011.
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report:
There was no Town monthly financial report to review due to it being the beginning of the year and no report was available.

Guest Speakers:
Brian Albanese
Brian approached the board to see if they were interested in becoming a member of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce. Brian Stated that this would help promote our area and local business. Yearly cost for joining would be $125.00. A motion was made by Buttel, Seconded by LaTourette to join the membership of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce. Brian will provide the application in the future.
Vote: All AYE’s – Motion Carried

Other Reports:
Report – Planning Board
None

Report – Assessor
None

Report – Highway Superintendent
1. Ron reminded the board that the Gravel Bank permit runs out August 31, 2013
2. Ron questioned items that were printed in the Walton Reporter for December’s meeting. Ron asked why it was stated that money had been transferred from one account to another and who done this, Bill explained he is the one that does the transferring of any monies.
3. Chips money has been received of 89,495.83, $60,000 went into equipment fund leaving a balance of $29,495.83 to go into the Highway fund.
4. All machinery normally stored outside is inside the creamery except for the D6 dozer.
5. Brush has been cut on numerous roads.
6. Various cleaning has been done in shop.
7. Have received $23,132.48, $1566.86 and $1646.91 in funds from FEMA from storms in 2011
8. Received $1400.98 thus far for the snow season. Ron would like the board to note that they plowed 27 times by this time last year and so far this season only 11 times and that the board needs to realize they may not receive as much from city and county for this season and would like this noted when board does 2013 budget.
9. Ron would like the board to look into start replacing the one-ton trucks.
10. Received papers from the County for the Town to complete on the expenditure.
11. Ron questioned why the percent of his health insurance keeps going up without getting a raise to replace those costs, Ron stated it is costing him another $100 out of his pay check every month, Ron feels he shouldn’t have to pay 15% and it is double what it was in last year. Bill explained to Ron that he approached Ron a while back with the option to change to cheaper insurance and at that time Ron did not want to change to the other insurance and Bill stated to Ron that by not changing and keeping the current insurance that Ron will have to pay the increase in the insurance.
12. Ron approached the board with purchasing a new International dump truck and provided a quote from Ben Funk of $232,386.86 and stated that the Board has until February 28th to decide if they want to purchase this truck. After further discussion the board stated that more quotes needed to be obtained and agreed to meet to review these quotes at a special meeting on January 18th 2012 at 6pm.

Report – Dog Control Officer
1. Received a call about a beagle chasing deer. Upon further investigation by DCO dog was not found.
2. Picked up two dogs on Abe Boice road on 12/23/2011, took to shelter and they were claimed by owners.
3. Received a call about 4 dogs running on Mormon Hollow. Owner had retrieved them.
4. Received a call from a resident on Higley Road complaining about a dog barking.
5. Received a call about a missing dog.

Report- Supervisor
1. There was an accident with the crew cab costing about $1400.00. A Town employee was backing out of the building and hit another truck. Ron stated he has a report he had made up and is in his files.
2. Received a call from a member of the planning board stating they had accidently shredded a paycheck so another one was sent out to her, upon further investigation it was found that this person has cashed both checks. A letter will be sent out to this person stating they will not be paid for their next meeting due to being paid for one meeting two times.
3. There is a Delaware Co. Soil and Stream management meeting on January 12, 2012, Ron will try and attend; Howie is unable to.
4. Michelle Emailed Deb Flemming the sketches from Hanna Wagner for the Town of Tompkins signs. Deb will get back to us in the spring when there is better weather about this.
5. Wayne Reynolds advised Bill that it is almost impossible to get rid of roads that are actually long driveways unless owner agrees.
6. Bill found that the County will do whatever needs to be done to abandon a portion of Rock Rift road. Bill will contact the County to start this process.
7. A draft law needs to be completed by March 19, 2012 for the National Flood Insurance Program. Bill is going to take this to Kristin, our Delaware County Planning representative, to see what actually needs to be done.
8. Bill went to Masonville’s and looked at their new building and found that they got a lot of office furniture from Army surplus for free to minimal amounts. He was also advised they have purchased new tires from them for nearly nothing. Chuck from Masonville gave Bill information on how to apply to be able to purchase some stuff from the Army Surplus.
9. Pictures for walls of Town building. Peggy had called around to numerous people in the community and is waiting to hear back from them and will bring the information she has with her at the special meeting on the 18th.
10. The Planning Board had put 55.5 cents per mile on their vouchers. The Board did not agree to pay this amount and it was changed back to the agreed mileage rate of 50.5 cents per mile.
11. Bill had looked into finding a Lawyer to be retained for the town and had found that there is no need to put a lawyer on retainer and that the Town can pass a resolution to use any Lawyer as they are needed.

Correspondence
None

Other
None

Abstract of Claims
On motion by Backus, seconded by Layton, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for January 9, 2012 as follows: General Fund: $ 4237.23, Highway Fund: $ 38,828.81
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

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

The meeting was adjourned at 10:03

Next meeting will be at 6pm on February 13, 2012 at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk

Town Board Meeting – December 12, 2011/ Farewell to Justice Lloyd Backus

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:35 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. Bruce Cunningham – Town Resident
  5. Glenn Graves – Walton Reporter
  6. Vicky Hornbeck – Town Bldg. Janitor

 

Pledge to the flag was led by Peggy Backus

 

Minutes Approval:

On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Board meeting held on November 14, 2011.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

 

Monthly Financial Reports:
 
Town Clerks Report:

On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk’s monthly report for November.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 

Supervisor’s Report:

The Town’s monthly financial report was reviewed with Nancy Roberts, bookkeeper to the Supervisor.

On motion by LaTourette seconded by Buttel it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s Financial Report.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 
 

Guest Speakers:

Vicky Hornbeck – Vicky approached the board asking for a raise. Vicky explained that due to her having to clean the new addition and the supervisor’s office it is taking her an extra hour to complete cleaning of the building. The Board stated they would discuss this and get back to Vicky with their decision.

 
 
Other Reports:
 
Report – Planning Board
None

 
Report – Assessor
None

 
Report – Highway Superintendent

  1. Ron questioned what the status is with the Trout Creek signs. Bill stated he is going to have to look into finding someone else to do them seeing how the person that was asked to do them they have not heard back from.
  2. Grit is all hauled in
  3. The phone line that was questioned in the Town Shed building was found to be for the alarm system.
  4. Employees have been cleaning, servicing trucks and equipment.
  5. Cold patching has been done.
  6. Employees have been trying out boom mower and have found some other small issues with it.
  7. Ron asked if the creamery can be used for cold storage.  William Layton said he would speak to our insurance agent about insurance for this building and whether items stored there would be covered on our existing policy.
  8. Ron would like the board to look into purchasing a new 10 wheeler to replace the oldest one.
  9. Ron would like the board to look into start replacing the 1 tons
  10. A Resolution needs to be done for Seasonal maintained highways. See Resolution 21 -2011
  11. In the past the board discussed abandon a portion of Rock Rift Rd. Ron was wondering what the status was with that and if the board could pursue this.  William Layton said he would talk to Wayne Reynolds about the procedure a town must follow to abandon a road.
  12. Ron submitted a letter from NRCS and they would like a response by December 23, 2011 stating that the town is interested in sponsoring this.

 

Report – Dog Control Officer

  1. Received a call about a lost dog
  2. Received a call about Dogs chasing Deer, Called Ag & Markets and they stated this is not a dog control issue. NYS DEC will handle this.
  3. Come home and found a dog tied to DCO’s trailer took dog to pound
  4. Had call about dog running around Sands Creek, Dry book area, retrieved dog and took to pound.
  5. Deb Toth from Ag and Markets stated that all dog’s that have not be licensed and all processes to get this completed have been done the next step is the Town Justice can put out a warrant for arrest on non compliant owners.

 

Report – Supervisor

  1. Jim Tompson, Insurance agent has come and shown prices for NYMIR, it was found that with same coverage as Town already has the town would save apx $8000 switching to NYMIR.
  2. All papers were signed last Thursday for the Higley property (creamery). Tanks were dug up and everything was alright. Property is now owned by the Town.
  3. Town went through a Union audit; Bill received a letter back stating everything with audit was satisfactory.
  4.  The purchase of the Cannonsville Cemetery has been finalized.
  5. Francis Wood town attorney will be retiring and the Town will need to replace him.
  6. Received a letter from Jim Tompson asking pointing out that if people would buy American and shop locally it would create many more American Jobs.
  7. Ron submitted a purchase request for the board to review, with many supplies on it for the trucks in the amount of $ 2798.

 

 

Correspondence

Carl asked fellow board members whether they had read the email from Town of Tompkins’ resident Steve Dungan which included his comments on the rdSGEIS, a document which he found “woefully inadequate” and that the result of drilling would “profit gas companies and a few land owners at the expense everyone else.”.  Steve called for the continuation of the moratorium on hydrofracking and wondered whether the board wished to endorse his comments.  If the board chose to do so, the endorsement would have to be submitted to DEC by Jan 11, 2012.
[Click HERE for Mr. Dungan’s comments.]
 

 
Other
Members of the Board and Friends and Family of Lloyd Backus were in attendance this evening prior to the Board meeting to recognize Judge Lloyd Backus retirement. Lloyd was presented with a plaque, card and a certificate of acknowledgement for years of service.

 
 

On motion by Backus, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for December 12, 2011 as follows: General Fund: $ 48764.41, Highway Fund: $ 31649.17
Capital Fund: $ 1538.82

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

 
 

Reading back of the minutes:
On motion by LaTourette and seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to accept the minutes as read back

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.
 
 
The meeting was adjourned at 8:35
 
Next meeting will be at 6pm on January 9, 2012 at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.
 
 
Michelle Phoenix
Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk

Town Board Meeting – November 10, 2011

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board
was called to order at 7:15 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 ‑ Deputy Town Clerk
  3. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper to the Supervisor
  4. Luther Higley – Town of Tompkins Fire District
  5. Judy Pangman – Lamont Engineers
  6. Robert      A. Panasci  – Young & Sommer – Attorney      representing Lamont Engineers


Minutes Approval:

On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Board meeting held on October 10, 2011.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.


Monthly Financial Reports:

Town Clerk’s Report:

On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk’s monthly report for September.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report:

The Town’s monthly financial report was reviewed with Nancy Roberts, bookkeeper to the Supervisor. A discussion took place on withdrawing $60,000 from the Equipment Reserve fund DA231 and depositing it into the highway fund Checking account #825 to cover highway bills for the rest of 2011 upon receiving the chips funds in late December it will be deposited into the equipment fund to replace money borrowed (see Resolution_19-2011).

On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s Financial Report.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.


Guest Speakers:

Judy Pangman – Lamont Engineers

Judy addressed the board with the process of the Stromwater Retrofit Program. The work will include two stormwater treatment units at the highway garage site to treat roof and parking lot runoff, and a bioretention basin next to the salt shed to treat roof runoff.   This application replaces entirely the previous one that Bill signed as the scope entirely changed.  This scope is based on site visits and discussions with CWC and DEP staff and will improve stormwater treatment on Town-owned properties.  The stormwater work will be bid and constructed with the wastewater work. There will be a CWC Board Meeting in the beginning of December for final approval.

Judy also stated that the Sewer system design is 100% complete

Robert A Panasci of Young & Sommer addressed the board regarding Easements for the sewer district, Robert stated there are 5 residents of the sewer district that have not signed and the next steps that will need to be taken with them. (See Resolution_ 17-2011 Use of Eminent Domain).

Robert also provided a resolution for the Town to purchase the Higley property and giving the Town Supervisor William Layton authorization to execute on behalf of the town an agreement to purchase the property and to execute any and all documents necessary to complete the transaction. (See Resolution_20-2011)

Robert also explained there were findings of an underground fuel tank on the Higley property, after much discussion and on motion by Backus, seconded by LaTourette it was moved to hold off on the closing of the property until issues with the underground tank have been resolved. The Town will have pressure testing and Soil boring done.

Vote: All AYE’s – Motion carried.

Luther Higley addressed the board regarding issues with Fire District file storage. Luther Explained the District has files located at many locations due to the fact they have no place to store them, Luther asked the board if the Town had any location these files could be stored. The board advised Luther to have the Fire District figure out the amount of space that would be needed and to bring it back to the board and the board would discuss options for the needed storage and a location.


Other Reports:

Report – Planning Board

Michelle read to Board the August 11, 2011 report.  (See August 2011 Planning Board minutes)

Report – Assessor

None

Report – Highway Superintendent

  1. Ron explained that prior resolution (07-2010) making      Windfall Run Road a seasonal Road for 2009 – 2010 needed to be a seasonally      maintained road for all future years. On Motion by Backus, seconded by      Layton it was moved to make Windfall Run Road in the Town of Tompkins a      seasonally maintained road from December 1st to April 1st      starting past the driveway of residence tax map #2283-6-2. (See Resolution_18-2011 Windfall Lake Road_Seasonal Maintenance). Vote All AYE’s – Motion Carried
  2. Ron questioned a invoice paid to Morgan White      Admistrators found on September’s Abstract and wondered what it was for –      Nancy explained it was for Life insurance on employees.
  3. Worked on drawing grit
  4. Working Roads and cleaning mess from storms
  5. Working in shop
  6. Helped Franklin.
  7. Boom mower up and using, found some minor adjustments      that needed to be done on it.
  8. Cold patching being done.
  9. Roads are caught up.
  10. Starting to notice problems from high water from storms      and are fixing as they are being found.
  11. FEMA money should be coming in
  12. Inquired about storing equipment in creamery over      winter once the closing goes through.
  13. Received money for scrap that was taken in.


Report – Dog Control Officer

  1. No issues to report this month.


Report- Supervisor:

  1. Teamsters audit will be Monday at 9:30am
  2. NYMIR – Bill will be asking them to come and present their insurance policies for insurance on equipment, building, etc.
  3. Town has received a reimbursement check from the County Treasurer for a Forestry Violation from a property owner in Tompkins.
  4. Judge Backus will be retiring at the end of the year Bill found that anyone can be appointed would have to run for election in November and if they were not a Lawyer they can take office and get into school. There is also a school being held in December, discussed asking current judge Backus to resign as of November 30, 2011 so that a new judge can be appointed and take the classes in December.
  5. The county has paid for both boys we had for summer help this year.


Correspondence

None

 
Other

None


On motion by Buttel, seconded by Backus, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for November, 2011 as follows:
General Fund: $ 13,653.44 Highway Fund: $ 29,106.99
Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reading back of the minutes:

On motion by Stuendel and seconded by Buttel, it was moved to accept the minutes as read back

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:25 PM

Next meeting will be at 7pm on December 12, 2011 at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.

Respectfully submitted:
Michelle Phoenix
Town Clerk

Minutes for the Nov 10, 2011 Public Hearing on the 2012 Preliminary Budget

The Public Hearing for the 2012 Preliminary Budget for the Town of Tompkins was called to order at 7:00pm by supervisor Layton in the Town meeting room.

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. Luther Higley

Pledge to the flag was led by LaTourette

 

Questions/Comments:

Nancy Roberts commented that she had received the Town of Tompkins Fire District and the Town of Hancock Fire Budget and their budget was added.

Ron VanValkenburg questioned the decrease of $45,000 in the highway fund for crushed gravel and questioned where that money will come from for 2012. Layton stated that this expense had not been mentioned in the tentative or preliminary budget meetings and consequently it was not in the current budget.

On motion by Layton, seconded by Stuendel it was moved to accept the 2012 Preliminary as the Adopted Budget and to place on file.

Vote:

4 AYE’s ~ Buttel, Stuendel, Backus and Layton

1 Nay ~ LaTourette

Motion Carried.

[Our Adopted Budget is within the “2% Tax Cap” mandated by NY State.  The state permitted additional allowances and when those were added to the 2012 budget, the actual increase over last year’s budget is 2.7 %.   For the summary of the Adopted Budget click here.  For details of the General Fund click here.   For details of the Highway Fund click here.    CFS]

Reading back of the minutes:

On motion by Backus and seconded by Buttel, it was moved to accept the minutes as read back

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 PM

Michelle Phoenix

Town of Tompkins
Town Clerk