Town of Tompkins in New York's Delaware County

Call to Order:  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. 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
3. Gail Crane, Deputy Town Clerk
4. Joyce Ottens, Assessor
5. Walt Ottens

Pledge to the flag was led by Supervisor Layton.

Minutes Approval: On motion by Stuendel seconded by Buttel it was moved to approve the minutes of the January 11, 2010  meeting as each member had received a copy.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports: Nancy Roberts went over the monthly financials with the Board.

On motion by Buttel seconded by Stuendel it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s and the Town Clerks monthly reports.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reports- Highway Superintendent, Ron VanValkenburg

1. On motion by Buttel seconded by Stuendel it was moved to hire Adelbert  VanDyke to take the Towns garbage every Wednesday.  Vote: All AYEs  Motion carried
2. The rainstorm we had minor damage. Had a small washout on Dufton Hollow Rd.
3. Mormon Hollow Rd above George Kehr’s need to change a bad pipe.
4. N Dry Brook Rd below Ed Vierno’s need pipes changed.
5. Pine Swamp Rd by Toni Shelton’s the creek flooded over the Town put the creek back where it should be.
6. Have been cutting and chipping brush on Abe Boice and Higley Roads.
7. Right front fender by the mud flap on the red Chevy needs to be fixed. Superintendent will get two (2) estimates.
8. On motion by LaTourette seconded by Backus it was moved to place an ad in the newspaper for bids for stone and sluice pipe. Vote: All AYEs  Motion carried.
9. Put bids for crushing gravel in the paper next month.
10. Make a copy of paperwork from Windfall Lake Rd for Superintendent.

Reports- Planning Board, re Town Clerk

Three reports Oct, Nov and Dec, 2009 were read by the Town Clerk.

Reports- Supervisor, Bill Layton

1. On motion by LaTourette seconded by Layton it was moved to reappoint Paul Bartholomew to the Board of Assessment Review. Term to be 5 years October 1, 2009- September 30, 2014.  Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.
2. Supervisor Layton made out a paper listing Hwy employee’s names and to it to Frank at Tony’s Shoe Store where employees can get safety boots for $ 175, employee will be responsible for anything over $175.
3. Assessor was here Joyce and Walt Ottens. Supervisor Layton ask about the property on Abe Boice Rd. There was a discussion about how the taxes are assessed. Veteran’s exemptions were discussed.
4. Treatment Plant (land), Nate Hendricks, Doug Vandeusen, Carl Stuendel and Bill Layton went around Trout Creek and checked out properties for a sewer treatment plant. Three (3) properties are being considered:
   1. Town’s property on State Hwy 206,
   2. Sharon Gifford  & Kathy Layton’s property on County Hwy 27, and
   3. Old upturn building owned by Hank Higley on County Hwy 27.

On motion by Stuendel seconded by Buttel it was moved to keep the Town’s lot for future use, and consider the other properties for the treatment plant. All : AYEs –  Motion carried.

1. Resolution #4 of 2010 – Local Technical Assistance Program Application was passed at a special meeting of the Town Board on January 25, 2010. Supervisor Layton read a thank you letter from the Deposit School concerning the grant Tompkins and Deposit are working on together.
2. On motion by Buttel seconded by Backus it was moved to keep the Crescent Pet Lodge as our place to send stray dogs. Vote: All AYEs – Motion  carried.
3. The Town will give the Vets Club $400 again this year.
4. Stadium International added a $70 late fee to the disputed $4,770 bill. The Supervisor and the Superintendent will take the warranty to the Town’s lawyer.
5. State bids on trucks were discussed – there are currently no 2009 or 2010 trucks available. Howie, Tim and Ron will be on the equipment committee. On motion by Stuendel seconded by Buttel it was moved to let the Committee get the Specs and go ahead and place on order a 2011 truck that will be available in the Fall, if the bids open before the regular meeting in March.  Vote: ALL AYEs – Motion carried.
6. On motion by Layton seconded by Backus it was moved to send out letters to the Property owners in the flood plain to attend a meeting on Feb 16^th concerning the appeal/protest process and flood insurance. Vote: All AYEs – motion carried.
7. On motion by Stuendel seconded by Layton it was moved to keep Norton Security for 1 year.  Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.
8. On motion by LaTourette seconded by Backus it was moved to have deputy Town Clerk do 1 day per month (4 to 5 hours) while Sandy is here and 1 day per week when Sandy is gone. Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

The Emergency Squad needs a new heart monitor ($20,000). They have raised $8000, and have asked the O’Conner Foundation for a grant, and they want to know if the Town can help with the balance through the Good Neighbor Fund.

Abstract of Claims:

On motion by Backus seconded by Buttel it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for February 2010 as follows;

General Fund: $ 153,432.03

Highway Fund:$   25,962.71

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reading back of the minutes:

On motion by LaTourette seconded by Stuendel it was moved to accept the minutes as read back.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Adjourn:  The meeting was adjourned at 10:08 pm.

Sandra M Gardepe

Town Clerk

Next meeting will be on March 8, 2010, 7:00 PM at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.

Call to order:

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 6:55 pm 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
3. Gail Crane, Deputy Town Clerk
4. Joe Reynolds, Building Inspector
5. Lloyd Backus, Justice
6. James Fox, Planning Board

Pledge:  Pledge to the flag was led by Peggy Backus.

Minutes Approval: On motion by Carl Stuendel seconded by Howard Buttel  it was moved to approve the minutes of the December 14, 2009 meeting as each member had received a copy.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:  On motion by Timothy LaTourette seconded by Carl Stuendel  it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s and the Town Clerks monthly reports.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Year End Financial Reports:  On motion by Howard Buttel seconded by Timothy LaTourette it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s and the Town Clerks year end reports.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reports-Highway Superintendent – Ron VanValkenburg

1. Maintenance – highway crew has been doing maintenance on equipment as well as the building.  They have painted walls in office, breakroom, bathroom and shop.  Bill Layton complimented the men on their job well done.   Regular maintenance of equipment has been taking place.
2. Garbage – need carboard boxes.  Bill Layton indicated he would get “Gaylord boxes”.  Another challenge of garbage removal was discussed.   Who and how they would be paid – no cash payments would be done, only checks, for garbage removal.  Peggy Backus assigned to obtain quotes from multiple trash handlers.  In the meantime, the highway department will take the garbage to Walton when they need to go there.
3. Comp time – Some employees interested to know if they can use ‘comp time’ in place of their overtime hours.  Peggy Backus did not know if this was legal to do this anymore.  Bill Layton indicated that there is a contract and the men can only be paid as it is spelled out in the contract.   Ron to review the contract.
4. Pole Barn – Highway Dept. needs pole barn – at least 6 bays.  If employees were to build it, they would need crane to set the rafters.  Bill Layton to check with BOCEs to see what they can or would be willing to do.  Good experience and educational experience for them.
5. New truck –  Discussion regarding Chevy vs Ford.  Howard Buttel has quotes on long bed $22K and short bed 21K but trucks do not have all the requirements of heavy duty equipment as specified by Ron.  Tim LaTourette presented a price of a 4 year old diesel which has the equipment Ron specified.  Discussion of gas vs diesel, old vs new, GM vs Ford ensued.  Ron prefers to stay with GM as the other trucks are all GM and the past performance and maintenance was satisfactory.  Purpose of the new truck is to ease the road maintenance during storms and to assist in transporting people and equipment to job sites.   Ron estimates new truck will be in the neighborhood of $36,000.  Committee Tim LaTourette, Howard Buttel, Ron VanValkenburg established.  Committee is to obtain prices and recommendation to the board.  Board has no preference of make – GM or Ford.

Reports- Planning Board,  James Fox

Gas drilling – There is an immediate need of 2010 Road Protection Statute.  Need the current bonding limits for roads.  Sandy will call Association of Towns to see if she can get the limits.

Wind Towers – Spanish firm (Houck Mt. LLC) does not seem to be honoring current contracts.  .  Wind towers are very tall.  Industrial towers different than personal or privately held wind towers and may have different zoning requirements. Wind seems to be a low priority with maybe 5 years before it comes active.    Joe Reynolds indicated the Houck Mt. LLC renewed their permit for Rock Riff Mountain location about 6 months ago.  Discussion of requirements for wind ensued.  A “Wind Energy Industrial and Private Zoning” requirement will be considered for Long Term resolution.

Alternate on Planning Board – Nancy LaTourette unable to attend all meeting due to conflicting commitments.  Not a problem with the Planning Board.  No action is needed.

Reports- Supervisor, Bill Layton

1. Dog Control Officer – status Brenda Thurston will remain with Russ Thurston as Deputy.  Alternate Deputy Russell Sprague
2. Scoville Meno crew cab pickup quote – see Highway Dept. section on new truck
3. Motor oil – Motor oil committee reported a decision was made to stay with Kendal
4. Lack of Planning Board Minutes – James Fox indicated the Planning Board will be turning minutes in this month.  Secretary will approve them on Thursday.
5. Town Hall addition – remain on HOLD until spring.  Discussion of location of septic.
6. Stadium/CAT invoice/warranty conflict – decision for Bill Layton to contact the higher up at Stadium to see if something can be worked out.  Board decision to not pay $4700 invoice at this time.  Town does not want to pay for Stadium education/learning on Town truck.  Board still feels warranty should cover the cost.  The Stadium secretary stated the original warranty should cover it.
7. Court clerk position – 3 applications received.  Requires special meeting of Board to establish wages and what other towns do with this position.  Date set Jan. 19, 2010 6:00 PM  Board member and Supervisor to attend.
8. Letter on moratorium – Letter was sent to Governor Patterson and DEC Jack Dahl in December
9. Pole Barn – Highway Dept. – on HOLD for now
10. FEMA – Carl Stuendel brought to the attention of the Board, the letter to William Layton from Kevin C. Long of FEMA, dated 12-9-2009 outlining flood map appeal process.  Distributed to each board member for review.   Indicates 90 day period for individuals to disagree with flood plain and must have town submit appeal with the individual.  The Town needs to decide on what they want to do regarding the Rt 206 flooding – should be a state responsibility to cleanout culvert.   Will discuss with Tom Evans, Delaware County Planning Board at the Planning Board Meeting Jan. 14, 2010 6:00 PM – or – will invite Tom Evans to special meeting on January 19, 2010.
11. Employee benefit – work shoes –   Bill Layton indicated new benefit for Highway Dept. employees.  The Town will pay an allowance of up to $175 per highway dept. employee for safety shoes.  Safety shoes must be purchased at Tony’s Shoe Store, Walton.  Any cost greater than $175 is the employee’s responsibility.  Employee can present competitive pricing to Tony’s Shoe Store to try to obtain a better price. Bill Layton will set up an account with Frank at Tony’s Shoe Store this week.
12. New computers – 2 new computers purchased.  1 Town Clerk, 1 Bookkeeper.  Old computer will be moved to a secure location for use by authorized Town personnel, perhaps a locked cabinet or desk.   Extended warranty 2 years cost $40/each computer.  Need to purchase a printer that is compatible with current systems for Town Clerk.  Estimated cost $175-200. With $20/per printer extended warranty.  Peggy Backus moved to approve purchase.  Seconded by Carl Stuendel.  VOTE:  All AYES  Motion Carried
13. Waste Treatment System – Bill Layton to meet with Nate Hendricks, Environmental Engineering Specialist,  CWC-DEP this week to review layout of land.
14. Assessor duties – Bill Layton indicated a problem brought to light that land is indicated VACANT on the tax records but has house on it.   Bill indicated a discussion required with the assessor.  Joe Reynolds indicated maybe a permit was not issued so would not be picked up by the assessor.  Discussion of how to review properties to assure Town is getting the proper tax money was discussed.   The assessor will be invited to the next Town Board meeting by Bill Layton.
15. Town Clerk Deputy Training – Bill Layton asked status of training of new Deputy.  Nearing the limit of the budget.  Sandy indicated making progress but not done yet.

Abstract of Claims:

On motion by Peggy Backus seconded by Tim LaTourette it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for January 2010  as follows;

General Fund: $  22,000.83__________

Highway Fund:$ _42,881.70__________

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reading back of the minutes:

On motion by Tim LaTourette seconded by Howard Buttel it was moved to accept the minutes as read back.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Adjourn: The meeting was adjourned at 8:55 PM.

Next meeting will be on February 8, 2010;   7:00 PM at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.

Sandra M Gardepe

Town Clerk

The Annual Audit of the Affairs (cash books, etc) for the Supervisor, Town Clerk and Town Justice was called to order at 6:24 pm at 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 Valkenburg-Hwy Superintendent
2. Nancy Roberts, Bookkeeper
3. Gail Crane, Deputy Town Clerk
4. Lloyd Backus, Justice
5. James Fox, Planning Board

On motion by Buttel seconded by LaTourette it was moved to take notice of the fact that the cashbooks, etc of the above mentioned officials were received and found to be satisfactory to the best of their knowledge.

Vote: All AYEs

Motion carried

Meeting adjourned at 6:52 PM.

Sandra M Gardepe

Town Clerk

The Annual Meeting of the Board of Health was called to order at 6:20 pm 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 Valkenburg-Hwy Superintendent
2. Nancy Roberts, Bookkeeper
3. Gail Crane, Deputy Town Clerk
4. Lloyd Backus, Justice
5. James Fox, Planning Board

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

Vote: All

Motion carried.

Meeting Adjourned at 6:23 PM

Sandra M Gardepe

Town Clerk

Call to Order: The Annual Reorganization 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. Carl Stuendel-Councilperson
3. Peggy Backus-Councilperson
4. Howard Buttel-Councilperson
5. Timothy LaTourette-Councilperson

Others:

1. Ronald Valkenburg-Hwy Superintendent
2. Nancy Roberts, Bookkeeper
3. Joe Reynolds, Building Inspector
4. Gail Crane, Deputy Town Clerk
5. Lloyd Backus, Justice
6. James Fox, Planning Board

Designation of Banks RESOLUTION 2010 #1

RESOLVED; on motion by Stuendel seconded by Backus it was moved to designate the National Bank & Trust Co of Norwich-Sidney Branch and Wilbur Bank of Oneonta-Sidney Branch as depositories for all funds held by the Supervisor. Other depositories were designated as follows; Justice Backus, Tax Collector Merwin and Town Clerk Gardepe the National Bank of Delaware County- Walton Branch for any and all monies they may receive by virtue of their offices.

Vote: All AYEs

Motion carried.

Official Newspaper: RESOLUTION  2010 #2

RESOLVED: on motion by Stuendel seconded by Backus it was moved to designate the Walton Reporter as the official newspaper during the year 2010 for the purpose of legal matters.

Vote: All AYEs.

Motion carried.

Appointments: RESOLUTION 2010 #3

RESOLVED: on motion by Stuendel seconded by Buttel it was moved to appoint the following people to their respective positions as follows;

a-Building Inspector- Joseph Reynolds

b-Deputy Town Clerk/Deputy Registrar – Gail Crane

c-Historian- Helen Zandt

d-Dog Control officer- Brenda Thurston with

Deputy Russ Thurston and Alternate Deputy Russell Sprague

e Deputy Supervisor- Howard Buttel

f- Health Officer – Dr Eric Dohner

g-Acting Court Clerk – Nancy Roberts

Vote: All AYEs.

Motion carried.

Salaries:  On motion by Buttel seconded by LaTourette it was moved that the salaries of the Town officers for the year 2010 are fixed in the budget and that the Supervisor is authorized to pay the approved salaries.  The following list gives the annual totals followed by the pay period schedule.

Supervisor- William Layton

$ 8,200  Monthly

Town Justice-Lloyd Backus

$ 6,000  Monthly

Town Clerk Sandra M Gardepe

$ 6,700  Monthly

Registrar    Sandra M Gardepe

$    600   Monthly

Councilpersons:

Carl Stuendel

$ 2,000  Quarterly

Peggy Backus

$ 2,000  Quarterly

Howard Buttel

$ 2,000  Quarterly

Timothy LaTourette

$ 2,000  Quarterly

Tax Collector- Georgiana Merwin

$ 5,000  Quarterly

Sole Assessor- Joyce Ottens

$10,600 Quarterly

Superintendent of Hwys-Ronald VanValkenburg

$40,850 Bi-Weekly

Building Inspector-Joseph Reynolds

$7,500   Monthly

Health Officer- Dr Eric Dohner

$    300   Yearly

Vote: All AYEs

Motion carried.

Highway Expenditures:  On motion by Backus seconded by Buttel it was moved that the Hwy Superintendent be authorized to purchase gasoline, oil, fuel, tires, salt, calcium, batteries  and such items to be obtained through the State Bid Contract, also dust oil for use on Town Roads with limit of $1000.  Any purchase greater than $1000 must be approved through the Town’s Purchase Order System.

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.  No delegate assigned.

Vote: All AYEs.

Motion carried.

Meeting Dates: On motion by Layton seconded by Stuendel it was moved to hold the 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: The reorganization meeting was adjourned a 6:20pm.

Sandra M.  Gardepe

Town Clerk,  Town of Tompkins

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. Carl Stuendel-Councilperson
3. Peggy Backus-Councilperson
4. Howard Buttel-Councilperson
5. Timothy LaTourette-Councilperson

Others:

1. Ronald VanValkenburg-Hwy Superintendent
2. Nancy Roberts
3. Mike DeGroat, Attorney
4. Justin Gardepe, student
5. Gail Crane, Deputy Town Clerk
6. Paul and Sandra Bartholomew

Pledge to the flag was led by Sandy Gardepe.

On motion by Buttel seconded by LaTourette it was moved to approve the minutes of the November 5, 2009 meeting as each member had received a copy.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

On motion by LaTourette seconded by Buttel it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s and the Town Clerks monthly reports.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Mike DeGroat, Attorney at Law, presented the paperwork for the Town taking over the Windfall Lake Road.  As it was inspected and passed by the Highway Superintendent, the Board and the Supervisors all signed the legal paperwork presented by the attorney.   On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Buttel it was moved to take over the Windfall Lake Road.  This winter it will be a seasonal road.

Vote:  All AYEs – Motion carried

Reports-Superintendent

1. Cold patch bin is all done
2. South Dry Brook Rd – put cold patch over pipes and on bad spots along the edge of the road.
3. Worked Alger Road, Carlson Road and Lookout Road
4. All trucks were washed and waxed.  Changed some air valves, hydraulic lines and power- steering gaskets.
5. Cut brush on Rock Rift Road, Readburn Road and Higley Road
6. Cold patched South Dry Book Road, Bullock Hill Road and Higley Spur Road.
7. Cleaned ditch on Readburn Road by Linda Trask’s
8. Hauled 45 loads of grit.
9. Where Town will purchase motor oil from was discussed.  A committee of three was formed to discuss further and determine best supplier.  Committee is Buttel, LaTourette, VanValkenburg
10. The bill from Stadium for the International truck is in the Supervisor’s report.
11. VanValkenburg brought in a quote from Scoville Meno for a crew cab pickup.  Tabled for now.
12. Taking care of general maintenance on roads.

Reports- Planning Board- re Town Clerk

No report –

Planning Board Minutes, or lack thereof, were discussed by Paul Bartholomew and we should have some minutes by our next meeting.

Reports- Supervisor

1. Re-appoint Joe Reynolds to the Board of Assessment Review.  Motion by LaTourette, seconded by Backus.  It was moved to reappoint Joe Reynolds to the Assessment Board of Review.  Term to be 5 years.
   Vote:  All AYE’s – motion carried
2. Build additional offices on the Town Hall was discussed.  No action taken at this time.
3. Truck invoice with Stadium discussed.  Had the truck at Stadium for 3 months and Stadium billed $8000 and informed the Town the work was not covered by warranty.  Stadium and Bill Layton talked to CAT and got CAT to cover part of it.  With CAT adjustment, bill is now $4701.   More discussion ensued on what should be / or is covered by original warranty and what is covered by extended warranty.  After discussion, Board decided not to pay the bill at this time as Board’s interpretation is that the vehicle is covered by the original warranty. Supervisor will talk to Stadium.
4. Employee Benefit Retirement – Hours worked are now required for retirement records. On motion by Buttel, seconded by Stuendel it was moved to pass a resolution on retirement records.  Standard work day for Highway is 8 hours; 6 hours for everyone else.
   Vote:  All AYE’s – motion carried
5. New Court Clerk position open.  Motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to place an ad in the paper for applicant for the Court Clerk Position.
   Vote:  All AYE’s – motion carried
6. On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Layton, it was moved to table the resignation of Brenda Thurston, DCO until next meeting.
   Vote:  All AYE’s – motion carried
7. A letter was received by Stuendel from Steve & Marie Dungan, Faulkner Road, requesting the Town to support a request to extend for another year the moratorium to gather more information regarding the environmental impacts and safety (sGEIS) of gas drilling in the Marcellus shale.  On motion by Stuendel, seconded by LaTourette it was moved to send a letter to the Governor of NY supporting Dungan’s request.  See letter below.
8. Complaint received by Layton of Town Highway employees and Town vehicles in Walton obtaining lunch for crew.  Discussed.  Highway Superintendent had already investigated with the men.   No further action taken at this time.
9. Nancy Roberts explained the change in the Budget.  It was a re-allocation of retirement payments from General Fund to Highway Fund.  Nancy Roberts then gave a report on the financials for December.  We are on target with our budget.

Other:

Time was set for the Annual Reorganizational Meetings.  Date:  January 11, 2010 at 6:00 PM

On motion by LaTourette seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for December 2009 as follows;

General Fund: $  6,734.19

Highway Fund:$38,042.74

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.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 pm.

Sandra M Gardepe

Town Clerk

Next meeting will be on January 11, 2010, 6:00 PM at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.

The following is Mr. Dungan’s letter to Governor Paterson:

December 2, 2009

Dear Governor Paterson,

I implore you to withdraw the DEC Draft SGEIS on Horizontal Gas Drilling, High Volume Hyrofracturing and Production and declare a one year minimum continuation of the statewide moratorium on gas drilling and high volume hydrofracturing, until such time as the document can be rewritten to provide adequate protections to the environment and the citizens of the State.  As presented, the DSGEIS fails to adequately address numerous aspects that would provide those protections.

Before any drilling and production may commence, you must direct the Commissioner of DEC to completely rewrite the DSGEIS and require that it includes and details:

Fully adequate environmental and community safeguards taking into account cumulative impacts of this type of drilling, hyrofracturing and gas production. There must be a clear plan for fully assessing and mitigating the cumulative impacts of gas drilling and extraction on water, air, land use and values, forests, plants, animals, people and community character

A clear plan for DEC inclusion and collaboration of local government and communities in reviewing all aspects of gas drilling and production including location and density of all drilling pads and bores, central storage and support facilities, compressor stations, pipelines, etc.

A ban gas well drilling in the floodplain

The final SGEIS must require that gas companies adhere to all requirements of  Federal Clean Water and Air Legislation

A complete ban on the use of any known toxic chemicals in fracking fluids

A clear plan with specified limitations and community safeguards for any and all water withdrawals that protects and prevents depletion of local water sources, public and private

A clear plan, requirements and gas company liability for handling,  storing, tracking, transporting and processing  all waste including any drilling and fracking fluid materials, and all toxic chemicals, gases, minerals and radiation  produced or released in the process, with clear protocols for each

A clear plan and requirements for fully protecting all aquifers, public and private drinking water sources and required pre drilling and ongoing test well monitoring at each well site and along all horizontal bores as well as pre and ongoing testing of any public or private water sources within one mile of well sites and bores.

Clearly specified gas company financial responsibility for all water source monitoring with DEC responsibility to conduct all monitoring or oversee independent contracting of it

A clear plan and requirements for preventing any and all releases of toxic gases into the air including gas company responsibility for collecting and appropriately processing any and all gases produced during all phases drilling, hydrofracturing and ongoing production as well as clearly specified gas company financial responsibility for all air quality monitoring with DEC responsibility to conduct all monitoring or oversee independent contracting of it

A clear plan for assessing and mitigating community impacts of all aspects of gas drilling and production

There must be a specific assessment of the impacts of related heavy truck and machinery traffic on local roads and bridges with pre drilling and ongoing assessments as well as clearly specified gas company liability for the costs of any and all needed repairs

There must be a specific assessment of the impacts and mitigation of all emissions of trucks and related drilling and production machinery

All accidents related to gas drilling and production need to be regulated with clearly specified liability and mitigation requirements.

The DEC must promulgate accompanying regulations with appropriate rule making procedures covering all of the above, not simply suggest conditions.  Any and all costs of implementing and monitoring DEC Regulations and requirements must be borne by the gas companies. There must be a clear DEC plan for adequate staffing and support for regulatory oversight and monitoring with gas company financial responsibility and bonding to ensure adequate oversight and monitoring over the lifetime of drilling, production, closure and ongoing monitoring.

No costs or unwanted responsibilities shall be passed to local government and communities.

Only when these provisions are included, can the DSGEIS on Horizontal Gas Drilling, High Volume Hyrofracturing and Production be considered as providing adequate environmental and community protections.

Respectfully,

Stephen Dungan

The board sent this letter and our endorsement of it and its call for “a one year minimum continuation of the statewide moratorium on gas drilling and high volume hydrofracturing, until such time as the document can be rewritten to provide adequate protections to the environment and the citizens of the State” to both Governor Paterson and the DEC.

Click HERE for a PDF version of the preliminary budget which includes comments.

The Public Hearing on the 2010 Budget was called to order at 7:15pm.

Pledge to the flag was led by Supervisor Layton

The Public Hearing was opened for discussion of the proposed budget.

On motion by Buttel seconded by Stuendel it was moved to close the Public Hearing at 7:30pm and call the regular meeting to ordered Vote: All AYEs   Motion carried.

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:30 pm 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
3. Brenda Thurston
4. Russ Thurston

On motion by LaTourette seconded by Stuendel it was moved to approve the minutes of the October 20, 2009 meeting as each member had received a copy. Vote: All AYEs   Motion carried.

On motion by LaTourette seconded by Buttel it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s and the Town  Clerk’s monthly reports.  Vote:All AYEs  Motion carried.

Reports- Superintendent

1. Need to send out new vouchers and change of address for the highway dept PO Box 4, Trout Creek, NY 13847
2. Went over all the roads and patched holes. Higley Spur and Higley Rd  need more patching.
3. Bobs Brook Rd – chipped brush.
4. Dryden Rd cut trees-took out stumps-ditched and widened the road-put down gravel.
5. Been keeping things maintained.
6. Will be drawing gravel and cutting brush.
7. Will be doing the cold patch pad next week weather permitting.

Reports- Planning Board- re Town Clerk

No report.

Reports-Supervisor

1. Taxes Supervisor Layton discussed the $2.00 late fee.  On motion by LaTourette seconded by Buttel it was moved to discontinue the $2.00 late fee on our taxes.  Vote: All AYEs  Motion carried.
2. Build on the Town Hall- Discuss further at the next meeting.
3. Tom Kingsbury- His property has been condemned as per the Town Health officer and is to torn down.
4. A card of sympathy for John Meredith’s family was signed by all.
5. On motion by LaTourette seconded by Stuendel it was moved to approve that the Supervisor may sign the agreement for the County Planning Boards payment for their services. Vote:All AYEs  Motion carried.
6. Currently building permits are not required for annual home-upkeep projects amounting to $5000 or less.  On motion by Stuendel seconded by Buttel it was moved to increase the allowance for such upkeep to $10,000.   Vote: All AYES  Motion carried.

Other

On motion by LaTourette seconded by Stuendel it was moved to issue a negative declaration  for SEQRA(adopting the amendments to the subdivision rules).  Vote:All AYEs  Motion carried.

On motion by Backus seconded by Buttel it was moved to adopt the amendments to update the Subdivision Rules.  Vote: ALL AYEs  Motion carried.

On motion by LaTourette seconded by Stuendel it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for November2009 as follows;

General Fund: $  4,434.78

Highway Fund:$ 16,647.68

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

The budget for 2010 was discussed at length and final changes were made.

On motion by LaTourette seconded by Stuendel it was moved to approve the 2010 budget. 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.

The meeting was adjourned at 10.10pm.

Sandra M Gardepe

Town Clerk

Next meeting will be on December 14, 2009 at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.

The Public Hearing concerning amending the Subdivision rules was called to order at 7:00pm. On motion by Buttel seconded by Backus it was moved to amend the Subdivision rule on design standards for screened gravel with a 4” base. Also to add October 20, 2009 to the front of the Subdivision rules.   Vote:All AYEs    Motion carried

Addendum – this has to be approved by the County Planning Board to be final.

On motion by Stuendel seconded by LaTourette it was moved to close the Public Hearing and open the regular meeting at 7:10pm.

The regular monthly meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:10 pm 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
3. Brenda Thurston
4. Mary Lou and Charles Koehler
5. Sabastian D’Agate

Pledge to the Flag was led by Peggy Backus

On motion by LaTourette seconded by Backus it was moved to approve the minutes of the September 28, 2009 meeting as each member had received a copy.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

On motion by LaTourette seconded by Layton it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Supervisor’s and the Town Clerks monthly reports.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reports-Superintendent

1. Been working on Dryden Brook Rd- Cutting trees, clearing stumps and ditching.
2. Trucks are equipped with winter tires.
3. Truck radiator, got the leak fixed. New radiator prices are aluminum $800 Copper $1000-1100.
4. Dana is still working on the broom.
5. Garbage- trying to stay within fire regulations. Ron VanValkenburg will check with Al Negrin to see if he will pick up the garbage.
6. Supervisor Layton will ask John Reynolds about abandoning Rock rift Rd.
7. Motor oil-should we change suppliers. Superintendent will get prices.
8. Needs pad 14’x20’ (approximately $3690) for our cold patch- On motion by Buttel seconded by LaTourette it was moved to build the pad.  Vote: All AYEs  Motion carried.
9. DEC came and inspected the Highway garage and fuel tanks for contaminants. Fuel tanks needed to be cleaned.

Reports- Planning Board- re Town Clerk

Separate paper No report.

Reports- Supervisor

1. Signs for cemeteries- cancel until next year.
2. Cleaning person-  On motion by Stuendel seconded by Buttel it was moved to hire both applicants Chris McLaughlin and Vickey Hornbeck if Carol Seward doesn’t want to come back. Vote: All AYEs  Motion carried.
3. Signs are up and Deb Fleming is sending back $100 as she made a mistake and charged for 2 double sided signs instead of 1 single and 1 double sided.
4. Supervisor Layton and the Board sent Helen Zandt a letter about the school house and a letter from the Delaware County Historical Society—See attached letters.
5. On motion by Layton seconded by Buttel it was moved to send Nancy Roberts to school for Advanced Government Accounting.  Vote: All AYEs  Motion carried.
6. We received $900 – Money for fuel from the Fire Department
7. October 26, 2009 at 7:00pm meeting with the Board, Supervisor Brenda Thurston DCO and Town Clerk.
8. Nancy Roberts looked up prices for property tags—300 for $60 per hundred.

Nancy Roberts went over the financials with the Board.

Other- Budget for 2010  On motion by Buttel seconded by Stuendel it was moved to approve the Preliminary Budget for 2010.  Vote: All AYEs    Motion carried.  There will be a public hearing to approve the Budget for 2010 on Nov 5, 2009 at 7pm.

On motion by Buttel seconded by LaTourette it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for October 2009 as follows;

General Fund: $  7,982.71

Highway Fund:$97,860.37

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reading back of the minutes:

On motion by LaTourette seconded by Layton it was moved to accept the minutes as read back.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:00pm.

Sandra M Gardepe

Town Clerk

Next meeting will be on Nov 5, 2009 at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.

Click HERE for a PDF version of the preliminary budget which includes comments.