Board Meeting Minutes

Clermont Zoning Board of Appeals
1795 Route 9
Germantown, NY 12526

January 28, 2026

 

The Clermont ZBA Meeting Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 7:30 pm at the Clermont Town Hall. Motion to open meeting Luke Kumbris , second Ben Peacock, all in favor Lee Gallant , Scott Shrfranek, Robert Berry.

The Meeting started with Salute to the Flag, Members attending were Luke Kumnris, lee Gallant, Scott Shafranek, Ben Peacock, Robert Barry.

Corrections or Omissions to the last Minutes meeting, January 28, 2026
No Corrections.

No new Business

 

Luke Kumbris moves to close meeting, second Lee Gallant, all In Favor Ben Peacock, Robert Berry, Scott Shrafranek

The Next Meeting will take Place on February 25, 2026

 

Respectfully
Peggy Fieser, Secretary

 

Town Board Meeting

January 5th, 2026

The Clermont Town Board held their regular monthly meeting on Monday, January 5th at the Town Hall. Those present were Supervisor Staats, Councilman Kris Gildersleeve, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson, Councilwoman Lusher Shute and Councilman Anthony Finta.

Meeting called to Order @7:16PM (immediately following organizational meeting) with the Pledge of Allegiance Led by Supervisor Staats

 

Swearing in of Officers: Councilwoman Brownson Swore in Supervisor Staats and Town Clerk Tracey Gallant. Town Clerk Tracey Gallant Swore in Councilman Anthony Finta and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve.

 

Presentation by Fingar Insurance for the 2026 Town Insurance Rates. Overall ~ 10% increase.

 

Approval of prior Town Board Meeting Minutes Motion to accept by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor So Carried

Written communications/Mail review

Town Clerks Report

TOTAL FOR GENERAL FUND $ 3219.15

TOTAL FOR TRUST AND AGENCY $ 500.00

COLUMBIA COUNTY SOLID WASTE $45.00

TOTAL FOR DECEMBER 2025 $3764.15

 

Mail Review-

Fire District election results Clermont/Livingston

Web Committee-None

 

Committee Reports and Updates

Lindsey-

Traffic Safety meeting 1/13/26, added 3-4 new members, 29 Survey responses and will send a reminder via email for the survey. Possible Grant opportunities for Traffic Studies

Park Pavillion-Possibility for State Bid

Kris-

Website Redirected, No bill yet. Looking at email address options google vs. gov

State Conference-Possible attendance

Anthony-Nothing to report

 

Dawn-

Still awaiting final word from Dormitory Authority regarding Grant

Deadline approaching for Bank of Greene county Grant application, Ideas are needed for the paperwork.

Old Business

Door Replacement -Hopefully by next meeting

Audit Update-Nothing to report yet

New Business

Surplus 1989 Case Tractor, 2004 Backhoe and Used Low Mileage Truck Tires. Motion by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in Favor, So Carried.

New Truck to be delivered February or March, old Truck will be surpluses.

 

Supervisors Report

Thank you to all for the Recent Holiday Party.

Thank you for the Decorating the Large Tree, Highway Department, Councilwoman Lusher Shute and Councilman Finta and Families

County Budget has been passed.

Town is in good shape without the need to raise Taxes.

Motion To Pay Abstracts

Motion to pay Highway abstract #1 Vouchers #1-7 $20452.64 By Councilwoman Lusher Shute, Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in Favor. So carried.

Motion to pay General abstract #1 Voucher #1-11 $3362.17 By Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in Favor. So carried.

 

Public Communication/Comments to Board– None

 

Motion to adjourn at 8:01PM by Councilman Gildersleeve Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in Favor. So carried.

 

Respectfully submitted.
Tracey J Gallant
Town Clerk

January 5, 2026
RESOLUTIONS 

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1.  

2026 ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING

RESOLUTION #01-2026

Time/Date for Regular Town Board Meetings

First Monday of every month at 7:00 P.M. In the case of Monday holidays or cancellations due to inclement weather, the meetings will be held on the Tuesday after the 1^st Monday.

 

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #02-2026

Town Board Meeting Rules and Regulations

1. Call to order
2. Salute of Flag
3. Acceptance of the minutes of the previous meeting
4. Written communications to the Town Board:

Town Clerk Report

Mail Review

5. Committee Reports and Updates
6. Old Business
7. New Business
8. Supervisors Report
9. Pay Abstracts
10. Public Comment/Communication – Public comments will be taken at the end of the meeting at the discretion of the Supervisor, unless engaged during the meeting.
11. Adjournment

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #03-2026

Naming Official Newspaper

Register Star

Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #04-2026

Naming Bank for Deposits

1. Supervisor Bank of Greene County

2. Town Clerk Bank of Greene County

3. Tax Collector Bank of Greene County

4. Justice Christensen Bank of Greene County

5. Justice Banks Bank of Greene County

Motion made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #05-2026

Authorize Town Supervisor to appoint a bookkeeper.

1. Pursuant to Section 29 of the Town Law
2. Necessary for proper conduct of Town Affairs

Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #06-2026

Authorize Town Supervisor to temporarily invest idle monies in accordance with the Town Investment policy (General Municipal Law, Section 11)

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #07-2026

 

Appoint Official Dog Shelter

Columbia Greene Humane Society

 

Round Top Animal Hospital

71 Palatine Park Road, Suite 8

Germantown, New York 12526

(518) 537-7387

 

Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #08-2026

Appoint Official Dog Control Officer at the Budgeted Amount.

Desiree Webber

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #09-2026

 

Authorize Town Justices to hire a Court Stenographer when necessary.

1. For a proper record of testimony
2. Within limit of 2026 budget

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

 

RESOLUTION #10-2026

Appoint Town Historian

Dawn Brownson

 

Motion made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve All in favor – So carried

 

RESOLUTION #11-2026

Appoint Code Enforcement Officer

Eli Fieser at Annual Salary at Budgeted Amount

Deputy Code Enforcement Officer at $100.00 per month, if needed.

(Appointed by Code Enforcement Officer)

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #12-2026

Appoint Town Attorney (for Town, Zoning Boards, Assessor)

(Within 2026 budget limits)

Freeman-Howard, P.C., Hudson, New York

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #13-2026

Appoint Hudson Valley Law Partners/Matthew Griesemer (for Planning Board)

(Within 2026 budget limits)

 

Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #14-2026

Appoint Town Engineer

CPL (Clark Patterson Lee)

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #15-2026

 

Designate Official Representatives to Association of Towns Annual Meeting

Supervisor Staats and Councilman Gildersleeve

 

Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #16-2026

Establish 72.5 Cents Per Mile Rate for official Town Travel. (Per Federal Guidelines effective 1/1/26)

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #17-2026

Authorize Town Supervisor to sign 2026 State and Local Youth Contracts

Motion made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #18-2026

Appoint Registrar of Vital Statistics

Tracey Gallant

 

Motion made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #19-2026

Re-appoint Laurence Saulpaugh, Chair of the Planning Board

Re-appoint Mary Howard, Deputy Chairman.

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #20-2026

Re-appoint Desiree Webber, Planning Board Secretary

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #21-2026

Re-appoint Jesse Cutaia to the Planning Board for a seven-year term,

January 1, 2026- December 31, 2032.

Motion made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #22-2026

Re-appoint Lee Gallant to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a five-year term

January 1, 2026- December 31, 2030.

Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #23-2026

Appoint Luke Kumburis, Chair of the Zoning Board of Appeals

Appoint Lee Gallant – Deputy Chairman

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #24-2026

Appoint Peggy Fieser Zoning Board Secretary

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #25-2026

Town Clerk’s appointments for Deputy Clerk and Deputy Registrar of Vital

Statistics –Lee Gallant and Connie Campisi

 

Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #26-2026

Town Highway Superintendent’s appointment for Deputy Highway

Superintendent – Adom Lawyer

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #27-2025

Town Supervisor’s appointment for Deputy Supervisor

Councilwoman Dawn Brownson for term of January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026.

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #28-2026

Town Supervisor’s appointment for Budget Officer

Raymond J. Staats

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #29-2026

Town Supervisor’s appointment for Town Bookkeeper

Brian Fitzgerald, CPA, PC

Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #30-2026

Town Board Committees CHAIR CO-CHAIR

Auditing All Town Board Members

Building & Grounds Raymond Staats Anthony Finta

Cable TV, Internet Networking Kris Gildersleeve Lindsey Lusher Shute

Grants Dawn Brownson Lindsey Lusher Shute

Highway Raymond Staats Anthony Finta

Insurance All Town Board Members

Legal Raymond Staats

Planning, Zoning and

Board of Assessment Review Lindsey Lusher Shute Anthony Finta

Recreation and Community Event Kris Gildersleeve Dawn Brownson

Village Green Committee Liaison to Town Board – Tami Connolly Easter Egg Hunt

Barbecue

Election Day Dinner

Holiday Program

School Liaison Kris Gildersleeve Lindsey Lusher Shute

Historical Committee Dawn Brownson Lindsey Lusher Shute

Parkland Use Lindsey Lusher Shute Anthony Finta

 

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #31-2026

Appoint Kris Gildersleeve Webmaster for Clermont’s website

Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #32-2026

Appoint representative Ray Tousey to the Columbia County Office for Aging for the term of

January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026.

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson

All in favor – So carried

RESOLUTION #33-2026

Re-appoint members of the Board of Ethics for the term of

January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026.

Mary Howard

Susan Rifenburgh

Tracey Gallant

Ray Tousey

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

 

RESOLUTION #34-2026

Accept 2026 Salaries stated in the 2026 Budget, as follows:

OFFICE                               SALARY                                  PAY BASIS

Supervisor                            $ 6,200.00/yr                               Monthly Payroll
Councilpersons (4)              $ 2,900.00/yr                                Monthly Payroll
Town Justice                       $ 6,100.00/yr                                Monthly Payroll
Town Justice                       $ 6,100.00/yr                                Monthly Payroll
Town Clerk                         $ 9,800.00/yr                                Monthly Payroll
Deputy Town Clerk            $ 20.00 hr.                                    Monthly per hour
Tax Collector                      $ 5,100.00/yr                                Monthly Payroll
Highway Superintendent    $ 61,200.00/yr                              Bi-weekly Payroll
Certified Assessor              $17,500.00/yr                               Monthly Payroll
Court Clerk (1)                   $ 416.67/mo                                 Monthly Payroll
Code Enforcement Officer $17,500.00/yr                               Monthly Payroll
Deputy Code Enforcement Officer$ $ 100.00/mo                   as needed
Town Custodian                 $ 2,200/yr                                     Monthly Payroll
Assessment Review Board Mtg. $ 100.00/day                       By Voucher
Additional time                  Minimum Wage                           By Voucher
Secretary – BAR                Minimum Wage                           By Voucher
Zoning Chairperson           $ 1,150.00/yr                               Yearly Payroll *
Planning Chairperson        $ 1,150.00/yr                               Yearly Payroll *
Zoning Co-Chairperson     $ 950.00/yr                                  Yearly Payroll *
Planning Co-Chairperson  $ 950.00/yr                                  Yearly Payroll *
Zoning Members               $ 900.00/yr                                  Yearly Payroll *
Planning Members            $ 900.00/yr                                  Yearly Payroll *
Zoning Secretary               $ 1,100.00/yr                               Yearly Payroll
Planning Secretary            $ 1,100.00/yr                               Yearly Payroll
Trial Juror                         Minimum Wage                           By Voucher
Dog Control Officer         $ 375.00/mo                                 Monthly Payroll

*If any Planning or Zoning Board member is absent for more than two meetings, that members salary will be reduced by $100.00 for each additional absence.
Alternate members of the Planning and Zoning Board will be paid $50.00 per meeting when called upon to participate by the Chairperson.

HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT

Full Time Budgeted Amount Bi-weekly Payroll

Part Time (Summer) $20.00 /Hr Bi-weekly Payroll

Part Time (Winter) $20.00 /HR Bi-weekly Payroll

Deputy Highway Superintendent $1,000/yr ½ in June, ½ in December

Motion made Councilwoman Brownson Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

Resolution #40 -2026 – Town of Clermont Fee Schedule for Building Department Fees and Zoning and Planning Fees.

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute All in favor – So carried

Resolution #41-2026 – Town of Clermont Official Undertaking of Municipal Officers

Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

Resolution #42-2026 – Agreement between the Clermont Town Board with the Canaan Fellowship for the use of the Clermont Community House for the period January 1, 2026 and December 31, 2026 according to the terms and conditions of the lease.

Motion made by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute

All in favor – So carried

Resolution #43-2026 – Agreement between the Clermont Town Board and Columbia Greene Humane Society to act as kennels for the town for the period January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026.

Motion made by Councilwoman Lusher Shute Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

Resolution #44-2026 – Agreement between the Clermont Town Board and Round Top Animal Hospital to act as kennels for the town for the period January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026.

Motion made by Councilwoman Brownson Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

These agreements will be reviewed with the other policies of the Town.

1. Review Highway Personnel Policy (Note Changes if Any)

2. Review Procurement Policy (Note Changes if Any)

3. Review Fixed Assets

4. Review Investment Policy (Note Changes if Any)

5. Sexual Harassment Policy

6. Code of Ethics

7. Cash Management

8. Emergency Preparedness Plan

9. Review Road Bonds (If any)

10. Review Other Bonds (If any)

11. Review Workplace Violence Policy

Set time and date to review books and records of Town Clerk, Town Justices, Tax Collector and Supervisor on Saturday, January 17^th, 10 AM Motion by Councilwoman Brownson Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

A motion was made to adjourn the organizational meeting and enter into the regular meeting by Councilwoman Lusher Shute Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve

All in favor – So carried

Respectfully submitted,
Tracey J Gallant
Town Clerk

CLERMONT PLANNING BOARD
November 12, 2025

The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at 7:30pm at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Larry Saulpaugh, Mary Howard, Tom Jantzen, Jennifer Phillips and Jesse Cutaia.

After review of the October 8, 2025 minutes, motion was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Tom Jantzen, to approve the minutes. All in favor. So carried.

Midwood Village LLC, 760 Woods Road, Tax ID #179.-1-30,
represented by Ashay Shah of Crawford & Associates, came before the Board regarding a Lot Line Adjustment, which will add 22.4 acres to the adjoining property. Following discussion of the application, the Board determined a Driveway permit from the County will be required. In addition, the Applicant will need a letter from the County Highway Department and the application will need to be reviewed by the County Planning Board. The proposed driveway will need to be added tot he Site Plan map. Motion was made by Tom Jantzen, seconded by Jennifer Phillips, to schedule a Public Hearing for the December 10, 2025 meeting. All in favor. So carried.

Susan Kotulak and Andrew Sartorius, Oki Doki Studio, came before the Board for information regarding the property located at 1727 Route 9, presently Hudson Valley Distillers. They intend to purchase the property and move Oki Doki Studio, a pottery studio, from its current location on Woods Road to the subject property at 1727 Route 9. The Board explained which forms and application will be needed. They will return to the December 10, 2025 meeting.

Phil Gellert, County Route 8, 180.2-5.111, Minor Subdivision, came before the Board seeking a Minor Subdivision of 4 acres from the existing 35 acre parcel. The need of a driveway vs an easement was discussed. The Applicant will need a driveway permit from the County, as well as a revision of the Site Plan Map showing a proposed house site with placement of the septic and well. Motion was made by Jesse Cutaia, seconded by Tom Jantzen, to schedule a Public Hearing for the December 10, 2025 meeting. All in favor. So carried.

With no further business, a motion was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Jesse Cutaia, to adjourn. All in favor. So carried. The meeting adjourned at 9:40pm.

Respectfully submitted,
Desiree M. Webber, Secretary

Town of Clermont
Town Board Meeting
NOVEMBER 3, 2025

The Clermont Town Board held their regular monthly meeting on Monday, November 3rd, 2025at the Town Hall. Those presents were Supervisor Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilman Kris Gildersleeve, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson and Councilwoman Lindsey Lusher Shute.

1. Call Meeting to Order @7PM by Supervisor Staats with the Pledge of Allegiance.
2. Presentation for the Harriet Tubman Byway-Handouts provided.
   • Restrictions are placed by DOT
   • Board questioned wording in resolution of “any” signage
   • New wording provided by DOT will be incorporated into the Resolution upon receipt for December meeting.
3. Approval of prior Town Board Meeting Minutes-
   • Approval of October Minutes, Motion to accept by Councilman Desmond, Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor So Carried
4. Written communications/Mail review

Clerk Report

1. • Total for General Fund $4557.53
   • Total for Escrow Fund $ 250.00
   • NYS Ag&Mkts $6.00
   • Total report for October 2025 $4813.53

Mail Review

1. • Red Hook (2) Public notices
   • Letter from Resident opposing re configuring the Bridge on Buckwheat Bridge Road
   • Election Day Dinner

Web Committee-None

5. Committee Reports and Updates
   • Bob-None
   • Lindsey
     • Traffic Safety survey
     • Camera enforcement update for busses?
   • Kris
     • Rope broke on flagpole while trying to replace POW flag. Highway department will get new rope and try to replace.
     • File Cabinets should be all set
     • Website-.gov is up and running and still being updated. .org site is no longer accepting new information. Redirect will happen soon
   • Dawn
     • Trees received and planted from money received for Iroquois grant
     • No dates for Park visit
     • Working with Dormitory Authority regarding Grants
6. Old Business
   • Dawn meeting with Roma Fence regarding parking lot fencing
   • Pavilion-Awaiting quote responses
   • Turkey Hill Road-Completed and Road open, Roadway still needs blacktop
   • Generator-Electrician is currently working with National Grid
   • Front Door replacement-Door and hardware on order
   • Sales Tax $175,966. 8 % increase
   • Mortgage Tax check should arrive soon
7. New Business
   • 2026 Budget-Public Hearing completed prior to Board meeting Supervisor Staats reviewed the budget

Motion made to adopt 2026 budget by Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in favor.

8. Supervisors Report-
   • Currently still working on County Budget -expected to be increase. Will provide an update at the December Meeting
9. Motion To Pay Abstracts
   • Motion to pay Trust & Agency abstract #4 Vouchers #4 $36.72 By Councilwoman Brownson Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor. So carried.
   • Motion to pay Highway abstract #11 Vouchers #111-120 $6761.59 By Councilwoman Lusher Shute Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in Favor. So carried.
   • Motion to pay General abstract #11 Vouchers #248-275 $21376.53 By Councilman Desmond Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in Favor. So carried.
   • Motion to pay General-Prepaid abstract #11A Vouchers #247 $107.64 By Councilman Gildersleeve Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in Favor. So carried.

Public Communication/Comments to Board- Questions regarding the Audit (No word from comptroller’s office yet)

Motion to enter executive session at 8:18 PM by Councilman Desmond Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in Favor. So carried.

There will be no additional business for the Town Board after executive session.

Motion to exit executive session at 8:33PM by Councilman Gildersleeve Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in Favor. So carried.

Motion to adjourn at 8:34PM by Councilman Desmond Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor. So carried.

Respectfully submitted.
Tracey J Gallant
Town Clerk

TOWN OF CLERMONT
PUBLIC HEARING 2026 BUDGET
NOVEMBER 3, 2025

The Clermont Town Board held the 2026 Budget Public Hearing on Monday, November 3rd, 2025 at 6:45 P.M. at the Town Hall.

Those in attendance were Supervisor Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilman Kris Gildersleeve, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson and Councilwoman Lindsey Lusher-Shute.

Supervisor Staats opened the public hearing for the 2026 Budget. The Town Clerk read the Public hearing notice.

Supervisor Staats read the highlights of the 2026 Budget

Total Budget $1,107,288
General Budget $581,183
Highway Budget $526,105
Tax rate per thousand at 19.01%
2.5-3.5% Salary increases and 5% increase for full time employees

Taxes raised by revenue $800,200
Less Fund balance $202,508
Raised by Taxes $104,580

No tax increase 2026

Above budget accounts for the following:
Infrastructure updates included Community house, Highway garage and Town Hall
Park Pavilion
New Pickup Truck for Highway
Reserve account for Highway

Supervisor Staats opened up the floor for any comments or questions on the 2026 budget.

David Szalas provided documentation for the NYS non competitive bid for electric vehicles w/rebate.

Questions regarding how projects around town are funded.

The hearing was closed at 7:04 P.M.

CLERMONT PLANNING BOARD
October 8, 2025

The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at 7:30pm at the Town Hall.  Those in attendance were Larry Saulpaugh, Mary Howard, Nathan Hempel, Ron Miller, Tom Jantzen, Jennifer Phillips and Jesse Cutaia.

After review of the September 10, 2025 minutes, motion was made by Ron Miller, seconded by Jennifer Phillips, to approve the minutes.  All in favor.  So carried.  

There was no new business.

The Board discussed the letter which was sent to the ZBA, Ray Tousey, Eli Fieser, and Judge Ron Banks regarding the Tin Barn.

With no further business, a motion was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Tom Jantzen, to adjourn.  All in favor.  So carried.  The meeting adjourned at 7:45pm.

Respectfully submitted,
Desiree M. Webber, Secretary

Town Board Meeting
October 6th, 2025

The Clermont Town Board held their regular monthly meeting on Monday, October 6th at the Town Hall. Those present were Supervisor Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilman Kris Gildersleeve, and Councilwoman Dawn Brownson. Councilwoman Lindsey Lusher Shute was absent.

Meeting called to Order @7:00 with the Pledge of Allegiance Led by Supervisor Staats

Approval of prior Town Board Meeting Minutes from 9/2/25 Motion to accept by Councilman Gildersleeve after slight spelling correction. Seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in Favor So Carried

Approval of prior Budget Workshop and Meeting Minutes from 9/22/25 Motion to accept by Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor So Carried

Written communications/Mail review

• Mail Review-GCS Resolution Pending for Tax Exemptions
• Web Committee-None

Committee Reports and Updates

• Bob –Nothing to report
• Lindsey- Absent
• Kris- File Cabinets-1 Working/repaired. 1 Cabinet awaiting part will be repaired.
  Website Updated to .gov-Sent out for review, will work on possible emails for Town officials.
  POW flag for Park on order.
• Dawn- Finalizing paperwork for the Grants for Playground.
  The Village Green committee will also Participate in the 2026 anniversary event.
  Possible Senator Michelle Hinchey and Assemblywoman Didi Barrrett will come down for grant presentation at playground-TBD

Old Business

• Park Update-Nothing new to report.
• Turkey Hill Road update-Almost completed, backfilling in progress expected to be completed by end of wk. of 10/13.
• Audit Update-Phone conference for Exit Interview to be held week of 10/13. No other information available.
• 2026 Budget Highlights-
  – No Tax increase
  – Total Budget: $1,107,288.00
  – Community Housing indoor painting and upgrades, Garage Painting, Engineer for Addition to Town Hall, New pickup truck for Highway, Continued growth of the Town Park.
  – Highway 5% salary increase, Most other positions 2.5-3% increase

New Business

• Tentative Budget- Motion to approve by Councilman Desmond, Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor So Carried
• Climate Smart presentation to be held at November Meeting
• Grievance Settlement- Motion to approve by Councilman Desmond, Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor So Carried

Supervisors Report

• County Budget Process still in work in progress-Supervisor Staats has vowed to vote against a Tax increase again.

Motion To Pay Abstracts

• Motion to pay Trust and Agency abstract #3 Voucher #3 in the amount of $36.72 By Councilwoman Brownson Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor. So carried.
• Motion to pay General-Prepaid abstract #10A Vouchers #221-223 $264.20 By Councilwoman Brownson Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor. So carried.
• Motion to pay Highway abstract #10 Vouchers #101-110 $8119.88 By Councilman Gildersleeve, Seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in Favor. So carried.
• Motion to pay General abstract #10 Voucher #224-246 $30949.09 By Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in Favor. So carried.

Public Communication/Comments to Board– None

Motion to adjourn at 7:31 PM by Councilman Desmond Seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve. All in Favor. So carried.

Respectfully submitted.
Tracey J Gallant
Town Clerk

Clermont Zoning Board of Appeals
1795 Route 9
Germantown, NY 12526

Clermont ZBA Meeting: Wednesday, September 24, 2025, 7:30pm at Town Hall. Motion to open Meeting Lee Gallant second to accept Luke Kumbris.

The Meeting started with Salute to the Flag, Members attending were Luke Kumnris, lee Gallant, Scott Shafranek , Robert Barry and Ben Peacock.

Absent: Tammy Connelly.

Corrections or Omissions to the last Minutes meeting,

No Corrections.

New Business Solar Panel

Jim Goff and Jeff Solar, acting as agents, presented the details of the project.

Nancy Baker Cahill

166 Moore Rd Germantown, NY 12526. Tax ID 191.1-1-28

Ground mounted solar system.

The aesthetic impact of visible panels will be cover by evergreen’s

The structure set- backs are 85/ft front road. Jim requested expedited approval of the project due to time-sensitive considerations.

1.The rebate ends at the of the year

2. Ensure the subcontractor is scheduled according to the project timeline.

Lee Gallant suggested to Jim & Jeff to notified & send certified mail to the neighbors about his next public hearing.

For the Hudson Register Star: The Columbia County Public Hearing is scheduled for October 15, 2025.

List of Contiguous Owners

Brian & Melanie Piotti

James, Yun & Yujin Yohe

Mark Delucca

Phyllis Heiko

Matthew & Deanna Huer

Brian & Caitlin Stickles

Jonathan Burleigh & Rachel Daley

Michael & Charlene Prounis

Stony Creek Farm, Elaine Tate

Patrick & Patricia Meehan

John & Eileen Graziano

Steven Boice & Alyssa Kortessis

Add For Hudson Register Star, was schedule for October 8 ,2025 Columbia County Public Hearing.

 

The public hearing for the ZBA meeting will be scheduled one week earlier than usual, October 15, 2025.

With no Other Business, Motion to accept application Lee Gallant Second, Scott Shafranek, all in favor Luke Kumbris Robert Berry Ben Peacock.

Respectfully
Peggy Fieser, Secretary

CLERMONT TOWN BOARD
BUDGET WORKSHOP
SEPTEMBER 22, 2025

The Clermont Town Board held a budget workshop on the 2026 Budget on Monday, September 22nd, 2025 at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Supervisor Staats, Councilman Desmond, Councilwoman Brownson, Councilman Gildersleeve and Councilwoman Lusher-Shute.

Supervisor Staats opened the workshop and went through all the budget and revenue accounts in the General and Highway funds.

Discussion regarding Salaries:

• SALARIES OF TOWN OFFICIALS
• SUPERVISOR $ 6,200.00
• TOWN BOARD (4 Members each getting $2,900) $11,600.00
• TOWN CLERK $ 9,800.00
• TOWN JUSTICES (2 Justices each getting $6,100) $12,200.00
• TAX COLLECTOR $ 5,100.00
• SUPERINTENDENT OF HIGHWAYS $61,200.00
• BUILDING INSP/CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER $16,500.00 (plus $1000.00 for deputy)
• ASSESSOR $17,500.00

*Salary increases were approved for 2 full time highway employees 5%

The following are the changes that have been suggested:

GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS
Town Board
A1010.4 contractual – increase from $1000. To $1500.

Justices
A1110.11 Personal Services-Clerk $4900 to $5000.

Supervisor
A1220.4 contractual-Increase from $12,500 to $13,000

Tax Collection
No Change other than Salary

Assessor
No change other than Salary

Town Clerk
A1410.4 increase from $3100 to $3500

Buildings
1620.4 – contractual – decrease to $50,000
1620.4G-Moved Video to Central Communications

Central Communications
1650.4 Contractual Increase from $5000 to $13,500 (now includes, video meetings, monthly newsletter and Website)

Special Items
A1910.4 Unallocated Insurance Increase from $23,000 to $25,000

Parks
7110.2 Equipment Decrease from $310,000 to $5000
7110.41 Contractual Exp. Increase from $25000 to $160,000
7110.42 Contractual Exp (Brownfields) Increase from $15,000 to $25,000

Library
7410.4 Contractual Exp. Increase from $3000 to $4000

Celebrations
7555.4 Contractual Exp Increase from $1000 to $5000

Zoning
8010.2 Equipment decrease from $3000 to $1000
8010.4 Contractual Exp. Increase from $3000 to $4500

Employee Benefits
9010.8 Retirement Increase from $12,000 to $13.000
9060.8 Hosp & Med Ins. Increase from $11,000 to $12,000

Tax Rate ~ 19.01 per 1000.

Total Tax Levy $104,580.

A motion was made at 8:05 PM to initiate a short Town Board

Call Meeting to Order by Supervisor Staats with the Pledge of Allegiance.

.gov website–Report by Councilman Gildersleeve regarding website update to .gov. Estimated cost $455-$975. Motion to approve up to $1000 by Councilman Gildersleeve Seconded by Councilwoman Brownson. All in Favor. So Carried

File cabinest-1 Drawer on each does not lock, Councilman Gildersleeve will see if we can get them repaired by the company that delivered them.

Generator-Supervisor Staats provided and updated quote for the Generator $35,899. We will attempt to have set by Winter.

Front Door-Follow up on Quote ~ $16,000- Motion to approve up to $16,000 by Councilwoman Brownson, Seconded by Councilwoman Lusher Shute. All in Favor. So Carried

Motion to adjourn at 8:28PM by Councilwoman Lusher Shute, Seconded by Councilman Desmond. All in Favor. So Carried

Respectfully submitted,
Tracey J Gallant
Town Clerk