Town of Tompkins in New York's Delaware County

The special 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 to the Supervisor
3. Michelle Phoenix- Town Clerk
4. Kevin Young – Lamont
5. Shelly Johnson – Del. Co. Planning
6. Nathan Gardepe – WCS Student
Read More »

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

Others:

1. Ronald VanValkenburg-Hwy Superintendent
2. Nancy Roberts –  Bookkeeper to the Supervisor
3. Michelle Phoenix- Town Clerk
4. Gail Crain – Deputy Town Clerk
5. Tim Cox – CWC
6. Judy Pangman – Lamont
7. Chris Yaccobucci – Lamont
8. Brian Albanese – Town Resident
9. Joe Reynolds – Town Building Inspector
10. Denise & Jim Walker – Town Resident
11. Antoine Faison – Town Resident
12. John Zabriskie – Town Resident
13. Russell Thurston – Planning Board

Pledge to the flag was led by Howie Buttel

Minutes Approval: On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Board meeting held on March 14, 2011.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:

Town Clerks Report:

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

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report:

The Town’s financial Statements and Monthly Financial Audit were reviewed with the Board by Nancy Roberts, Bookkeeper to the Supervisor.

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

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Guest Speakers:

Judy Pangman & Chris Yaccobucci – Lamont

Judy and Chris reviewed with the board the processes that Lamont has done up to this point, they have also provided upcoming processes that are coming in near future.

1. SEQR part 2 & 3 and Negative Declaration Review & Approval

2. Archeology study to start soon by Binghamton University

3. North County (NCES) wetland Delineation (now) & Threatened and endangered species review (summer) (collection system/private land)

4. Preliminary Collection System Layout

5. Contractor for restoration of treatment sites.

6. Town Highway Dept – Survey Map

7. Material from WWTF cut and fill

8. Spoils areas

9. Easements mailed next month, pending archeology study

10. Higley property subdivision: Town Purchasing property?

Mr. & Mrs. Walker

Filed a complaint with the towns building inspector about a surrounding neighbor with issues of the amount of junk cars and rubbish on the property. The Walkers would like the board to help resolve this issue. Joe had given a notice of violation to the resident with the junk cars on 3/30/2011.

Bids – Lawn Mowing

• Bids reviewed lawn mowing from Kevin Klee, Chris Goodrich, Brent Trembell and Dan Gehl.

On motion by Buttel seconded by Backus it was moved to accept Dan Gehl’s bid on lawn mowing for the 2011 season.

Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried

Other Reports:

Report – Planning Board

Russ Thurston was here and stated they board had met last month.

Report – Assessor

Assessor’s Report for February and March was read by Town Clerk.

Report – Highway Superintendent

Due to time issues Ron Asked board to postpone meeting for Highway Superintendent report to another night. Ron stated he has a lot go through and would like to do this when there is more time.

On motion by Buttel seconded by Backus it was moved hold special meeting on Tuesday April 19, 2011 at 6pm to review Superintendents report.

Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried

 

 Report – Dog Control Officer

1. 3/15/2011 – Call received to check on welfare of a dog.
2. 3/19/11 – Call received about missing dog
3. 3/26/2011 – Appearance ticket issued for un-licensed dog after 2 warnings.
4. 3/27/2011 – Call received about dog barking excessively.
5. 3/29/2011 – Resident complained about town dog law.
6. 4/2/2011 –  Enumeration process started 36 dog counted 0 licensed
7. 4/9/2011 – Continuation of enumeration 21 dogs counted 3 licensed
8. It was found that the last set of puppies picked up on Southworth Road had the disease Parvo, after further investigation with Crescent Pet Lodge it was also found that the last 2 groups of puppies brought to them by the prior dog control officer had also had the disease. This is a very contagious disease and there is concern of it spreading throughout the town. After much discussion it was decided by the board members that they will no longer allow any dogs be picked up at the residence on Southworth road. Russ Thurston was in attendance and said he understood the boards concern and agreed upon this.
9. Discussion was brought up about the enumeration process and the procedure that should be followed after enumeration of dog(s) has been done.

On motion by Carl seconded by Layton it was moved to give 14 days from date of DCO’s  enumeration to comply and get all unlicensed dogs licensed, If dogs have not been licensed by the 14 days a summons will be given. If upon enumeration the resident is not found to be home and a dog or dogs are seen or heard a letter will be mailed stating enumeration has been done at the residence and they have 14 days from the date of the letter to license dog(s).

Vote: All AYES – Motion Carried

 

Report- Supervisor

1. Interior walls of the new courtroom addition have been painted by Mike Wooden in the amount of $450.00
2.  Payroll school for Terry, after much discussion it was found there was no need to send her.
3. Court Clerk position was filled by Linda Scott, Lynn will be training her until she leaves sometime in May. It was decided between the board that there is approximately 20 hrs a week work and Town will pay $10.00 per hour during Linda’s probation period of 60 days, after probation is complete board will review pay scale.
4. Resident on Chamberlin Brook contacted Bill questioning why calcium is now being put on road and not dust oil. Ron stated Calcium has been found to work better and is less messy. Bill is also going to check and see if Dust Oil is even allowed to be used anymore.
5. Vicky Hornbeck – After much discussion on putting Vicky on pay roll the board decided to investigate the cost of this.
6. [Two resolutions, Resolution 2011-7 and Resolution 2011-8, were passed at this meeting and will be posted as soon as they are made available.  (posted May 17, 2011 cfs)] [Resolution 2011-7 (which superseded Resolution 2011-6, see Town Board Meeting March 14, 2011) was itself superseded by Resolution 2011-14.  See Town Board Meeting – June 13, 2011.  //   Resolution 2011-8 regarding Taxation of Watershed Agricultural Easements is available as a PDF: ToT Res 2011-8.  (posted Sept 1, 2011 cfs)]

 

 Correspondence

0

 

Other:

Abstract of Claims

On motion by Backus, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for March 2011 as follows: General Fund: $ 40555.39, Highway Fund: $ 19735.30

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

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.

On motion by Layton, seconded by Backus, it was moved to adjourn meeting at 10:07 pm.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Next meeting will be at 7pm on May 9, 2011 at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.

Michelle Phoenix

Town of Tompkins

Town Clerk

The special Town Board meeting, to discuss implementing a law for the new sewer system of the Town of Tompkins started at order at 7:06 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. Nancy Roberts – Bookkeeper to the Supervisor
2. Michelle Phoenix- Town Clerk
3. Kevin Young – Young/ Sommer LLC (representing Lamont Engineering)
4. Tim Cox – CWC

Kevin Young was here to discuss the new Laws that would need to be implemented for the Waste Water Management Program.
Mr. Young supplied a Sample law, Operation and Maintenance Estimate of Yearly costs sheet and a typical Operation and Maintenance budget sheet for the board to review and to discuss any questions.

Meeting ended at 8:00 PM

Michelle Phoenix
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. 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
4. Shane Strong – Cobleskill Stone Products Read More »

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 to the Supervisor
3. Michelle Phoenix- Town Clerk
4. Shelly Johnson – Del. Co. Planning Board
5. Dean Frazier – Del. Co. Watershed Affairs
6. Judy Pangman – Lamont Engineers

Pledge to the flag was led by Dean Frazier

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

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Guest Speakers:

Dean Frazier- Delaware Co. Commissioner of Watershed Affairs

Shelly Johnson – Chief Planner, Delaware Co. Planning Board

NYC avoided having to build a federally mandated water filtration plant for its water supply by agreeing to a number of conditions summed up in the historic 1997 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).  This agreement had a duration of ten years with an automatic five year extension and so was set to expire in 2012.  Negotiations between the Coalition of Watershed Towns, Catskill Watershed Corporation, Delaware County, various environmental groups, US EPA, NYS DEC and NYC DEP among other principals of the original MOA, has resulted in the Successor Water Supply Permit (S-WSP) which was issued on Dec 14, 2010.  A key requirement of the S-WSP (and the original MOA) is the Land Acquisition Program whereby NYC is required to purchase land in the watershed region to keep it from ever being developed.  The idea is that developed land will lead to the production of effluents that could result in the deterioration of water quality.  However, hamlets within the watershed were allowed to expand their borders and were given the option to exclude NYC from acquiring land or easements within these borders.

Dean and Shelly were here to discuss the decisions the town board would have to make regarding the hamlet of Trout Creek.  They told us that in 1997 the Town of Tompkins had chosen not to exclude NYC acquisitions within the designated hamlet area of Trout Creek and that several years ago the town board had chosen not to expand the hamlet of Trout Creek.

They told the board that it would have to 1) affirm the current borders of the hamlet, 2) decide whether it would allow acquisitions or easements within the designated hamlet area.  If it wanted to exclude acquisitions and easements, the board would have to notify land owners by mail of this inclination and schedule a public hearing.  If the board allowed individual owners to opt out of this exclusion, i.e., to opt out of being included in the hamlet area, then the owners should know that if they were near a watercourse, they would no longer be allowed to build within 100 feet of it.

They said there were three other decisions the town board would have to make for the Town of Tompkins as a whole with respect to NYC acquisitions and easements: 1) whether to waive the ten acre minimum lot size requirement in floodplains, 2) whether to waive the ten acre minimum lot size in the entire town, and 3) whether to allow land trusts acting as agents for NYC to acquire land within the town.

They told us they would come back to discuss these matters further after we had a chance to talk it over on the board and with members of the community within the designated hamlet area.

Judy Pangman – Project Manager, Lamont Engineers

Judy reported the status of the wastewater management program. A map was shown with the projected sewer pipe lines, with other numerous bits of information.

Judy stated it will be apx. 18 months before construction and a year and half from then until completion.

Judy presented to the board the forms required to initiate the SEQR process for the Trout Creek Wastewater Management Project

On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to adopt Resolution 2011 #5. Resolution of the Town Board of the Town of Tompkins seeking lead agency status in construction of the wastewater management project in the hamlet of Trout Creek.

Vote: All Ayes

Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:

Town Clerks Report:

On motion by Layton, seconded by Stuendel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk’s January 2011 monthly report.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Supervisor’s Report:

The Town’s financial Statements and Monthly Financial Audit were reviewed with the Board by Nancy Roberts, Bookkeeper to the Supervisor.

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

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Other Reports:

Report – Planning Board

None

Report – Assessor

Michelle received Assessor report via email from Joyce Ottens and was read.

Report – Highway Superintendent

1. Water separators were pumped out at the shop.
2. Used $11,268 in diesel fuel, an average of $380 a day
3. Paper shed is full, need some boxes to empty it.
4. 2004 Chevy 1 Ton is at Hanley’s – Found to not be getting fuel. The problem could be the fuel tank or the injectors. Howie Stated there may be a recall on this truck for this issue and Ron should look into this.
5. After repairs to the turbo’s on the 2007 International, the bill comes to apx. $3330.
6. Having to do a lot of small repairs to the trucks (Brake hands, etc) due to what the State is putting on the roads.
7. Would really like the board to reconsider the budget for the grit pile. So far this year with the amount of snow we are getting they are ahead in grit usage and pile is dwindling faster than prior years.
8. Need requests for stone and pipes bids put out in the paper
9. We need to talk to resident on Cemetery Road about trimming back the bush on the corner.

Report – Dog Control Officer

1. On 1/19/11 1 Adult dog and 1 puppy was dropped off at the Thurston residence, They were taken to the Crescent Pet Lodge on 1/20/11
2. On 1/17/11 received a call about 2 beagles that were missing. On 1/21/11 received a call about two beagles seen at the pull off on County RT 27 by Morman Hollow Rd. After locating the dogs at Oralls junk yard a call was made to the owner and he picked up the dogs at our residence, at that time we advised them to get the dogs licensed, they were given dog license applications.
3. Followed up with apx. 12 residences that had received letters of unlicensed dogs in December. The resident that was home was given 14 days to get the dogs licensed, and the ones that were not home were left applications. We will return on or about February 17, 2011 to check on their progress.
4. Discussion on giving residents a fee break when they want to go ahead and get the 3 yr license to coincide with their 3-yr rabies shot. After much discussion it was advised that Dog Control officer Sprague, Town Clerk Phoenix and Board Member Backus get together and see what they think would be good for a break and bring it back to March’s meeting.
5. It was brought up if we need to do a contract renewal with Crescent Pet Lodge. Town Clerk will look into this.
6. At the time of taking the dogs to the shelter, a question was brought up regarding the town charging an adoption fee for any dogs we have taken to Crescent Pet Lodge that get adopted. After much discussion it was agreed we will not ask for an adoption fee with the thoughts a dog may get adopted faster if there are no fees.

Report- Supervisor

1. Cold War Vet tax credit- This was discussed in the past and it was found our taxes are low enough now and with another credit it won’t do much.
2. Steel for Boces – Bill asked Ron if he had any extra steel laying around for the kids at Boces to practice on. Ron stated there are a couple pieces of steel laying at the Highway dept for them to pick up.
3. Paul Bartholomew’s position with the Board of Assessment Review was up in Oct, 2010. Paul was called and he stated he would continue with the position. On Motion by LaTourette, Seconded by Stuendel it was moved to appoint Paul Bartholomew to the Board of Assessment Vote: All Aye’s Motion Carried.
4. Michelle, Peggy and Howie are up for Election in November
5. After meeting with Deb from Ag & Markets, it was pointed out that we should not have a position of Deputy Dog Control Officer, due to the fact that the Deputy would have to go through same inspections as the Dog Control Officer. Deb suggested we contact a surrounding town’s Dog Control Officer to assist us in the case of our Dog Control Officer not being available. After much discussion a motion was made by Stuendel to dissolve the Deputy Dog Control Officer position from Resolution 2011 #3, seconded by LaTourette. Vote: All Aye’s Motion Carried. See Amendment to 2011 #3.
6. Property owner on the sharp corner on Cemetery Road states he no longer needs cinders put down any farther than corner.

Correspondence

Invitation from Deposit Event Committee to participate in the celebration of the town’s 200^th birthday.

Other

Amendment to the Annual Audit of Books meeting held January 10, 2011

Upon receiving and reviewing Town Judge, Backus and Town Building Inspector, Reynolds Annual Books

On Motion by LaTourette seconded by Stuendel it was moved to take notice of the fact that the Cashbooks of the above mentioned officials were received and found to be in satisfactory order to the best of their knowledge.

Vote: All Ayes

Motion Carried

Abstract of Claims

On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Layton, it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for January 2011 as follows: General Fund: $ 6,611.06, Highway Fund: $ 28,019.43

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

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.

On Motion by LaTourette and seconded by Layton, to adjourn meeting at 10:15 pm.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Next meeting will be at 7pm on March 14, 2011 at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.

Michelle Phoenix

Town Clerk

The Annual Reorganization Meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 7:03 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
4. Gail Crane – Deputy Town Clerk
5. Russ Thurston – Deputy Dog Control Officer
6. Brenda Thurston – Dog Control Officer

On Motion by Layton seconded by LaTourette it was moved to waive the last 15 days of the 60 day probation period for Michelle Phoenix and appoint her as Town Clerk, and to add her to the Town Clerk bank accounts.

Vote: All AYES’s

Motion Carried.

Designation of Banks: RESOLUTION 2011 #1

Resolved; on Motion by Stuendel seconded by LaTourette it was moved to designate the National Bank & Trust Co and Wilbur Bank as depositories for all funds held by the supervisor. Other depositories were designated as follows; Justice Backus, Tax Collector Merwin and Town Clerk Phoenix shall use 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 2011 #2

Resolved; on Motion by LaTourette seconded by Stuendel it was moved to designate the Walton Reporter as the official newspaper during the year 2011 for the purpose of legal matters.

Vote: All AYEs

Motion Carried.

Appointments: RESOLUTION 2011 #3

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 – Gail Crane

d.      Historian  – Helen Zandt

e.       Dog Control Officer – Russell Sprague, Jr.

f.       Deputy Dog Control Officer – Russell Thurston

g.      Deputy Supervisor – Howie Buttel

h.      Health Officer – Dr. Eric Dohner

i.        Court Clerk – Lynn Carlstrom

j.        Bookkeeper – Nancy Roberts

k.      Deputy Court Clerk – Nancy Roberts

l.        Attorney  – Francis Wood

Vote: ALL AYEs

Motion Carried.

Official Radio Station: RESOLUTION 2011 #4

On motion by Layton seconded by LaTourette 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 Buttel seconded by LaTourette it was moved that the Salaries of the Town officers for the year 2011 are fixed in the budget and that the Supervisor is authorized to pay the approved salaries.  (The minutes also show the pay periods for each position.)

Supervisor – William Layton                        $ 8,200                          Monthly

Town Justice – Lloyd Backus                        $ 6,000                          Monthly

Town Clerk – Michelle Phoenix                    $ 6,700                          Bi – Weekly

Registrar – Michelle Phoenix                        $ 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                    $10,000                     Monthly

Superintendent of Hwys – Ron VanValkenburg   $42,000             Bi- Weekly

Building Inspector – Joseph Reynolds                     $ 8,500               Monthly

Town Justice – Lloyd Backus                                        $ 6,000               Monthly

Court Clerk – Lynn Carlstrom                                        $ 5,000               Monthly

Bookkeeper- Nancy Roberts                                          $ 5,800                Monthly

Dog Control Officer – Russell Sprague Jr.                      $ 2,500                Monthly

Account Clerk – Teresa Davis                                        $ 4,200                Monthly

Health Officer – Dr. Eric Dohner                                     $ 300              Quarterly

Vote: All AYEs

Motion carried

Highway Expenditures:

On motion by Backus seconded by Layton it was moved that the Highway Superintendent be authorized to purchase items under $1,000 without a purchase order, any item over $1000 requires a town purchase order approved by the Town Board prior to purchase.  All items should be obtained through state bid when possible.

Vote: All AYEs

Motion carried.

Delegate to Annual Association of Towns Meeting in NYC

On motion by Layton seconded by Backus, 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 Backus 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:

The reorganization meeting was adjourned at 7:35pm

Michelle Phoenix

Town Clerk, Town of Tompkins

The Annual Meeting of the Board of Health 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.      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

4.      Gail Crane – Deputy Town Clerk

On Motion by Layton seconded by LaTourette 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 7:36 PM

Michelle Phoenix

Town Clerk

The Annual Audit of the Affairs (cash books, etc) for the Supervisor, Town Clerk and Town Justice was called to order at 7:36 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

4.      Gail Crane – Deputy Town Clerk

On Motion by Stuendel seconded by LaTourette 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 order 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 8:16 PM

Michelle Phoenix

Town Clerk

The Regular Monthly Meeting of the Town of Tompkins Town Board was called to order at 8:17 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 to the Supervisor
3. Michelle Phoenix- Town Clerk
4. Gail Crane – Deputy Town Clerk
5. Russ Thurston – Deputy Dog Control Officer
6. Brenda Thurston – Dog Control Officer

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 December, 13 2010.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Monthly Financial Reports:

On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Town Clerk’s monthly report.  (Annual Financial Reports will be published on the Town of Tompkins website).

[At the request of Amy Hawk (See Nov 9, 2010 Public Hearing and Town Board Meeting Minutes), PDF files for the General Fund and Highway Fund, Budget vs Actual, are available Here (General) and Here (Highway).]

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

The Town’s financial Statements and Budget Report were reviewed with the Board by Nancy Roberts, Bookkeeper to the Supervisor.

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

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reports

Planning Board

None

Assessor

Michelle received Assessor report via email from Joyce Ottens and was read.

Highway Superintendent

1. Received DPW paperwork on spending Highway funds, Layton will take care of.
2. Going through the town’s most recent hardcopy of its Subdivision Laws, Ron noted that a) they did not reflect the Oct 20, 2009 amendment to the design standards for new roads in major subdivisions requiring a 4” base of crushed gravel rather than screened gravel, and b) on p54 of his hardcopy, under Drainage, the law reads “Use 18″ min. & larger culverts and shall meet State standards, except that 12″ driveway pipes are required,” and instead of 12”, he says the standard he’s been applying has been 15”.  Carl noted that the law would need to be changed.
3. Turbo on 2007 International went on Friday January 7^th. Warranty did not cover the turbo.  Sam went and got parts in Syracuse and Dana Wagner had it all fixed by Saturday afternoon. Dana is a huge asset for the town, saves money and repair time on equipment. Ron has not received the invoice for repairs but was quoted $3200 – $3300 for parts.
4. Went through equipment and if he had to get rid of one the first one would be the 88 International
5. Grit – Went apx. $621 over in grit. Would like board to consider increasing from $5000 in next year’s budget.
6. Trailer for hauling equipment, planks being replaced and it is being painted.
7. Doorway complete
8. Light that was going on and off has been fixed by Marc Layton.
9. Plowing equipment is ready and being used.

Reports- Dog Control Officer

Brenda Thurston resigned as Dog Control Officer because she no longer had access to a vehicle for the job.  Dog Enumeration and any other issues with dog control will be handed over to new dog control officer Russell Sprague Jr.  Russ Thurston will remain as Deputy Dog Control Officer.

Reports- Supervisor

1. Dog Control Law – Done and recorded with NY State.
2. Waste Water Program – Lamont guys have been out talking to residents that will be involved and found that Doris Kinney’s residence was not included, but will be included now.

Reynolds Road – Last two residences on that road will be considered to be added.

A discussion was brought up about who will pay for the electric for the pumps on residence property.

1. A check for $1840 from the CWC should be coming for the holes that were done by Town Highway employees.
2. It was found that the town owns tax parcel 227.1-1-31. This will be looked into and discussed at the February meeting.
3. A Thank you card was received from Sandy Gardepe.
4. Georgiana Merwin has a tax check for the Town in the amount of apx $50,000.

Correspondence

Other

Abstract of Claims

On motion by LaTourette, seconded by Layton,   it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for January 2011 as follows: General Fund: $ 6,611.06, Highway Fund: $ 28,019.43

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reading back of the minutes:

On motion by Layton and seconded by Backus, it was moved to forego reading back the minutes and to let them be reviewed as an email attachment that the town clerk would send out to all board members.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

On Motion by Layton and seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to adjourn meeting at 9:25 pm.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Next meeting will be on February 14, 2011 at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek,

NY.

Michelle Phoenix

Town Clerk

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. Carl Stuendel-Councilperson
3. Peggy Backus-Councilperson
4. Howard Buttel-Councilperson
5. Timothy LaTourette-Councilperson “ Arrived at 7:50PM”

Others:

1. Ronald VanValkenburg-Hwy Superintendent
2. Nancy Roberts –  Bookkeeper to the Supervisor
3. Michelle Phoenix- Town Clerk
4. Gail Crane – Deputy Town Clerk
5. Sandy Gardepe – Retired Clerk
6. Jason Craig – Town Resident
7. Judy Backus – Town of Sidney Resident
8. Russ Thurston – Deputy Dog Control Officer
9. Brenda Thurston – Dog Control Officer
10. Perry Shelton – Retired Town Supervisor

Pledge to the flag was led by Carl Stuendel

Bill Layton thanked Sandy Gardepe and presented her a letter and a certificate of appreciation for years of service as Town Clerk, from 2000 to 2010.

Public Hearing Subdivision

Public hearing was opened at 7:14PM on the subdivision of Robert Grasso property. No one raised any issues. Motion to Close Public Hearing was at 7:15PM by Buttel, seconded by Stuendel.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Public Hearing on Dog Control and Licensing Law

Public Hearing was open at 7:16PM.

Justice Lloyd Backus raised questions regarding the enumeration status and process, it was explained to Mr. Backus that the enumeration process is not part of the dog licensing law and would be discussed during regular meeting when the dog control officer report is discussed.

Motion to Close Public Hearing at 7:20PM by Buttel, seconded by Stuendel.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the Board meeting held on November, 9 2010.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to approve the minutes of the 2 special board meetings held November, 16 2010 and November, 22 2010.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

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

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

The Town’s Financial Statements and Budget Report were reviewed with the Board by Nancy Roberts, Bookkeeper to the Supervisor. Nancy indicated that our final CHIPS reimbursement of $29,000 due this week. The General Fund checking account is a little low, due to having prepaid $33,000 in 2011 expenses for retirement ($23,000 for the Highway Fund) and Delaware County’s charge for planning board assistance.  . A question was raised on the employee count on the drug testing, Ron is checking it out. Question raised on the variance of money spent on grit, Nancy and Ron will verify.

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.

The Adopted Budged that was signed at the November Board meeting had not reflected the Hancock Fire district numbers. The Bookkeeper presented to the board an updated budget that reflects the numbers for the Hancock Fire District for signing.

Guest Speakers:

Jason Craig – Floor was opened to Jason Craig.

Mr. Craig requested the Town Board to have the Highway Dept. take over the maintenance of Camelot Road.  There are currently 10 residences on the road.  Mr. Craig has an estimate for gravel for the road of $102,000.  Board indicated the cost to the Town is estimated as approximately $65-70,000 per mile; 1 miles is the length of Camelot Road.  The current road status does not meet the Town’s Sub-division or Road Specifications.  Joe Reynolds indicated that he has signed letters from the homeowners indicating the road would not be taken over by the Town but would remain a Private Road.(Note:  Joe indicated after the meeting that he was incorrect in this statement.)  Tim LaTourette indicated the Town had previously met with homeowners explaining that they purchased the property with false impression by Mr. Markey regarding the road status.  Mr. LaTourette also indicated the wires on the road are too low and could not be maintained by Town unless corrected.  It was suggested by Mr. Stuendel for Mr. Craig to review with his attorney in light of the new history of meetings Mr. Craig presented.   Mr. Layton stated he understood the position of the homeowners and Mr. Craig but that the road would have to be brought up to meet the current specifications

Reports – Planning Board

On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Layton, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Planning Board’s November, 2010 monthly report.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Reports – Assessor

On motion by Layton, seconded by Buttel, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Assessor’s monthly November, 2010 report.  It was requested by Peggy Backus to have future Assessor Reports reflect more details on issues and their resolutions.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion Carried.

Reports-Highway Superintendent

1. Used 3320 yards of gravel working roads in 2010.
2. Roads are done being worked until next year.
3. Headwalls fixed due to last heavy rain on Faulkner, Chamberlain Brook and Pine Swamp.
4. Personnel list for County was filled out wrong so we got $.75 less for every hour we did for  snow plowing in 2010
5. Cold patch is done on all roads.
6. Would like to be able to get concrete pad behind shop done in spring.
7. Grit, city paid Town ½ of what the town has set aside for grit in 2011.
8. Road stone on hand, Approx. 150 ton –ST; 60 Ton – 1B; 200 Ton 1A.
9. Plowing equipment is ready and being used.
10. Done hauling Grit.
11. Brush cut on Windfall Rd.
12. Need to get winter tires for trucks costing $391 a piece. Total Approx. $13,000.  Tires are getting harder to get for the required sizes.
13. Need to invoice Lamont engineering for 2 (8 hr) days work use of backhoe and one operator.
14. Rock Rift Road – Seasonal section.  In order to abandon, requires a Hearing with the land owners.
15. Would like new boom mower, costing 82,524.00.  Ron to make an equipment inventory list with status of condition of equipment and priority for replacement
16. Chips money. Meeting at Danny’s Restaurant 12-14-10 where Wayne Reynolds will be discussing new regulations on how money can be spent.  Ron will attend.

Reports- Dog Control Officer

Dog Enumeration project was discussed.  Justice Lloyd Backus voiced his concerns in completion of the job in a timely, accurate method.  The Dog Control report indicated 134 residents visited/reviewed; 87 with no dogs, 21 with licensed dogs and 23 with unlicensed dogs.  Verbal warnings were issued with letters to be mailed from Town Clerk.  Brenda indicated she was going to have to work with Private Communities to obtain enumeration counts.

On motion by Stuendel, seconded by Layton, it was moved to receive, approve and place on file the Dog Control Officer monthly report.

Reports- Supervisor

1. Town Clerk Appointment to Michelle Phoenix.  As newly appointed Town Clerk, Michelle has started her training with Gail Crane.  Michelle is on a 60 day probation period.
2. On motion LaTourette, seconded Stuendel.  To Adopt Local Law #1- 2010 (The New licensing and Control of Dogs in the town of Tompkins)

Vote: All AYE’s – Motion Carried

Resolution 9-2010 for the adoption of Local Law 1-2010 was signed by the Board.

1. Question raised regarding whether or not the letterhead should reflect the web address. Decision was made that letterhead should show the Town Of Tompkins web address.
2. The status of the Town Shed entrance way – Bill has an estimate of $1350 with $675 down and balance on completion of Job, estimate includes labor and material by contractor Len Warner.  On motion by Buttel, Seconded by LaTourette, it was moved to accept the estimate and to go ahead with job.
3. Generator at Town Shed – This requires a building permit, installation of circuit breaker by licensed electrician and then inspection by a licensed electrical inspector.  Joe will create the permit, Bill will sign it and contact the electrician, Hank Raymond.

Correspondence

Stream Corridor Management Grant program meeting will be held on December 16, 2010 at 11:00am. Carl stated that the County Planning Board will assist the town by filling out most of the grant application paperwork, once town representative, Ron V. and Howie B., have identified areas needing attention.

Other

Abstract of Claims

On motion by Buttel, seconded by LaTourette,   it was moved to approve the Abstract of Claims for 2010 as follows: General Fund: $ 61,731.01, Highway Fund: $ 87,422.31

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Reading back of the minutes:

On motion by Backus and seconded by LaTourette,  it was moved to forego reading back the minutes due to the hour and to let them be reviewed as an email attachment that the town clerk would send out to all board members.

Vote: All AYEs – Motion carried.

Motion by Stuendel, seconded by LaTourette to adjourn meeting at 9:55 pm.

Michelle Phoenix

Town Clerk

Next meeting will be on January 10, 2011 at the Town Meeting Room, Trout Creek, NY.