Board Meeting Minutes

There was no ZBA meeting in September.

CLERMONT TOWN BOARD

BUDGET WORKSHOP

SEPTEMBER 17, 2019

The Clermont Town Board held a budget workshop on Tuesday, September 17, 2019 at 6:30 P.M. at the Town Hall.  Those present were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilman Evan Hempel and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve.  Councilwoman Dawn Brownson was absent due to illness.  Also present was Lindsey Shute.

Supervisor Staats opened the workshop and went through every appropriation account and revenue account for the General fund and Highway fund.  The following are the accounts, which had a change suggested.

GENERAL FUND APPROPRIATIONS:

Justices

1110.1 Personal services – increase from $5,450 each to $5,600 each.

            There has been no salary increase for the previous two years. Total: $11,200.00

1110.11 Clerk, personal services – increase to $4,500 from $4,400.

Tax Collector

1330.1 Personal services – increase from $4,500 to 4,600

1330.4 Contractual – decrease from $6,500 to $2,500. Will have less mailings to do this year than last.

Assessor

1355.12 Data Collection, personal services – decrease from $1,000 to zero. There will be no data collection this year.

1355.4 Contractual – decreased from $4,750 to $600.  Due to no data collection this year.

Town Clerk

1410.1 Personal services – increase from $6,900 to $7,000.

Buildings

1620.1 Cleaner – personal services – Salary increase from $1,650 to $1,800.

1620.4 Contractual – decrease from $20,500 to $10,000. 

Decreased due to repairs to buildings   after hail storm being completed and covered by insurance.

1620.41 Contractual – Oil – decreased from $8,000 to $7,000.

            The Supervisor has gotten quotes from several fuel oil companies, Kosco –  $.15 over rack, Valley Oil, quoted 2.39 fixed rate, Main Care, $.19 over rack (2.43 fixed).  Valley Oil has the best price and we will contract with them.

Special Items

1910.4 Unallocated insurance – Our insurance agent suggested a 4% increase from $15,000 to $15,600.

Superintendent of Highways

5010.1 Personal Services – increase from $50,533 to $51,543.  A 2 % increase was requested by the highway superintendent and it is felt that our Superintendent does a lot and saves the Town money by doing a lot of the repairs and maintenance that are needed.

Garage

5132.41 Contractual – Oil – decrease from $6,000 to $5,000.

Parks

7110.1 Personal services – allocated $1,000 for paying for additional labor which may have to be done in the park.

Historian

7510.4 Contractual – decreased from $950 to $ 500.

Celebrations

7550.4 Contractual – decreased from $2000 to $1000.

Zoning

8010.11 Code Enforcement – personal services – increased from $9000 to $11000.

Increased because workload has increased and the code enforcement officer may have to add additional hours to his schedule.

8010.2 Equipment – decreased from $300 to $100.

8010.4 Contractual – decreased from $6,500 to $4,000. 

Employment Benefits:

9030.8 Social Security – increase from $10,224 to $10,504.

TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS   $284,207.00

GENERAL FUND REVENUES:

1120 Non property tax – increase from $170,000 to $180,000.  This is sales tax revenue and it has been increasing each year.

1170 Cable Franchise fee – decrease from $1,200 to $1,100.

1255 Town Clerk’s fees – increase from $1,200 to $1,500.

2115 Planning fees – decrease from $900 to $500.

2290 Tobacco settlement – decreased from $12,200 to $12,000.

2401 Interest and Earnings – increased from $800 to $3,257.

2555 Building Permits – increased from $7,000 to $9,000.

2610 Fines and Forfeitures – increased from $8,000 to $9,000.

5031 Interfund Transfer – decreased from $20,500 to zero.  This was insurance monies for building repairs.

TOTAL GENERAL FUND REVENUES:   $274,207.00

HIGHWAY FUND APPROPRIATIONS

General Repairs

5110.1 – Personal Services increase from $83,200 to $84,864. Increase of 2% for two full time employees to $20.36 per hour and part-time employees to $12.75 per hour.

5110.12 – Personal services – Overtime increase from $8,500 to $8670.

Improvements

5112.2 Equipment – Same $45,000

5112.2c Chips Reimburseable – same $46,500

            To be used for blacktop, cold mix, gravel

            Stone top Cemetery Road, Jug Road, Firehouse Road, East Camp and Old Road

            Black top Trout Creek Road – .35 miles – Total $91,500.00

Machinery

5130.2 Equipment – decreased from $86.000 to $18,000. Decreased by $68,000 for purchase of new truck, requesting tail gate conveyor for shoulder work.

Employee Benefits

9030.8 Social Security – increase from $7500 to $7700 for salary increases. 

Interfund Transfers

9950.9 Capital Reserve – increase from $45,000 to $50,000.

TOTAL HIGHWAY FUND APPROPRIATIONS: $390,734.00

HIGHWAY FUND ESTIMATED REVENUES

1120 Sales Tax – increased from $170,000 to $180,000.

2401 Interest and Earnings – increased from $400 to $2000.

2665 Sales of Equipment – decreased from $10,000 to zero.

3501 – State Aid – Consolidated Highway – increased from $66,019. to 46,500.

TOTAL ESTIMATED REVENUES: $228,500.00

APPROPRIATED RESERVES – HIGHWAY – Decreased from $86,000 to $18,000.

General Fund Appropriations                                     $284,207.00

Less Estimated Revenues                                           $274,207.00

Less Appropriated Reserves                                       $  10,000.00

Less Appropriated Fund Balance                                     -00-

Amount to Be raised by taxes                                           -00-

Highway Appropriations                                            $390,734.00

Less Estimated Revenues                                           $228,500.00

Less Appropriated Reserves                                       $  18,000.00

Less Appropriated Fund Balance                               $  39,654.00

Amount to be raised by taxes                                     $104,580.00

TOTALS

Appropriations                                                            $674,941.00

Less Estimated Revenues                                           $502,707.00

Less Appropriated Reserves                                       $  28,000.00

Less Appropriated Fund Balance                               $  39,654.00

Amount to be raised by taxes                                     $104,580.00

SCHEDULE OF SALARIES

Supervisor                                                                   $  5,500.00

Town Board     4 members each getting $2500          $10,000.00

Town Clerk                                                                 $  7,000.00

Town Justices   2 Justices each getting $5600.          $11,200.00

Tax Collector                                                              $  4,600.00

Superintendent of Highways                                      $51,543.00

Building Insp./Code Enforcement Officer                 $11,000.00

Assessor                                                                      $15,270.00

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon, RMC

Town Clerk

CLERMONT FIRE COMMISSIONERS

SEPTEMBER 16, 2019

The Clermont Fire Commissioners held their regular meeting on Monday, September 16, 2019 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall.  Those in attendance were Chairwoman S. Rifenburgh, Commissioner Ron Rifenburgh, Commissioner Ray Bauer and Commissioner Ron Miller.  Also present was Chief Lloyd Kukon, Treasurer Denise Fiore, Robert Desmond, Jack Gomm and Larry Brody from Milan Fire Company.

Chairwoman Susan Rifenburgh opened the meeting with the salute to the flag.

MINUTES: After review, a motion was made by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Miller to accept the minutes.  All in favor.  So carried.

TREASURER’S REPORT:  The Treasurer’s report for September was submitted by Treasurer Fiore as follows:

September 16, 2019 Fire Commissioners’ Treasurer’s Report                      

RE:  August 2019

Total Amount of August 2019 Invoices Paid                      $ 4,563.91

RE:  September 2019

Proposed September 2019 Invoices                       $ 2,855.70

Paid September 2019 Invoices                                  2,237.14  

                                                                                                 TOTAL                   $ 5,092.84

Reconciliation of Accounts

The Bank of Greene County Balances to Date

Money Market Checking Balance*                                                      $ 120,422.59

*Includes interest paid on 8/31/19 in the amount of $36.69

Checking Balance                                                                                              5,978.45

Plus deposit 9/5/19 (Stolen radio insurance portion)                                            935.50           

Less Outstanding Checks                                                                                 2,516.69

Checking Balance to Date                                                                                 4,397.26

Money Market & Checking A/C Total                                               $ 124,819.85

Capital Reserve Fund for Fire Equipment                                        $   29,728.61 (as of 12/31/18)

                Interest 12/31/18 – 1/31/19                                                  $            3.78

                Interest 1/31/19 – 2/28/19                                                                   3.42

                Interest 2/28/19 – 3/31/19                                                                     3.79

                Interest 3/31/19 – 4/30/19                                                                    3.66

                Interest 4/30/19 – 5/31/19                                                                     3.79

                Interest 5/31/19 – 6/30/19                                                               3.67

              Interest 6/30/19 – 7/31/19                                                                 4.63

Deposit 7/15/19 unexpended 2018 balance                                     12,000.00

                Interest 7/31/19 – 8/31/19                                                                      5.32

               Total                                     41,760.67                                                                                                                                           

Capital Reserve Fund for Constr. &Improvement:                     $   33,666.86 (as of 12/31/18)

                Interest 12/31/18 – 1/31/19                                                                 $  4.29

                Interest 1/31/19 – 2/28/19                                                                       3.87         

                Interest 2/28/19 – 3/31/19                                                                      4.29

                Interest 3/31/19 – 4/30/19                                                                       4.15

                Interest 4/30/19 – 5/31/19                                                                       4.29

                Interest 5/31/19 – 6/30/19                                                                       4.15

                Interest 6/30/19 – 7/31/19                                                                       4.29

                Interest 7/31/19 – 8/31/19                                                                       4.29

                                                                               Total                                $   33,700.48

Denise Fiore, Treasurer

September 16, 2019

MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Bauer and seconded by Commissioner Miller to accept the Treasurer’s report.  All in favor.  So carried.

CORRESPONDENCE:

• RBC Wealth Management – Account Statement for August $410,662.42
• Sexual Harassment Information for the Commissioners to review.

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS: Commissioner Bauer

• The new flag has been put up at Station #1.
• The water filters were replaced on the water softener, however, he doesn’t feel it is using enough salt.

INSURANCE: Commissioner Rifenburgh and Miller

• A claim has been submitted for the missing radio and a check received for $935.50.
• Commissioner R. Rifenburgh would like a list of how many radios we have and who has them.

FIRE EQUIPMENT: Commissioner Bauer and Commissioner R. Rifenburgh

• Truck #6013 was reported last month to have a steering problem and Commissioner Bauer asked if it was fixed.  Commissioner R. Rifenburgh said that VRS has had the truck but cannot determine what the problem is.
• A light was fixed on the van.
• AED: The Captain did receive this but it is not known if he put it on the truck and he is not present tonight.

LOSAP: All Commissioners

No report

LAWS AND POLICIES: All Commissioners

No report

LEGAL: All Commissioners

No report

OLD BUSINESS:

• Chairwoman Rifenburgh asked if Evan Decker and Jackie Decker have gotten their FIT tests.  The Chief does not believe so.
• THERMAL IMAGING CAMERA: Prices were to be gotten this past month but it is not known if any of the officers did this.

NEW BUSINESS:

The public hearing for the 2020 budget will be held on Tuesday, October 15^th at 6:30 P.M. and the regular meeting will follow.

CHIEFS REPORT:

The following is the Chiefs report for August:

• 8/13/19 – Wires down – 211 Pleasantvale Road
• 8/21/19 – Alarm Activation -6 Sharon Drive
• 8/29/19 – Standby for Livingston
• 8/31/19 – Smoke Investigation – 367 East Camp Road

Monthly Drills:

8/26/19 – Drafting from pond site – 9 firefighters

8/30/19 – Truck detail for Chatham Fire Parade – 6 firefighters

8/31/19 – Chatham Fair Parade – 8 firefighters

• The Chief reported that he is trying to get younger members qualified to drive the trucks. It is hard to get them to come out and drive the truck until they feel comfortable.
• The Chief said that there has been a problem that even before we are on the scene, another company is getting called in.

• The Clermont Ladies Auxiliary took second place at the County Convention and 2^nd place in the Class A Division at the Chatham Fair. The men took 2^nd place in the Class D division at the Fair.
• MES wanted to service the packs, the compressor was serviced and if the filters don’t need to be changed, they won’t be changed.
• The Chief also needs to purchase copy paper.
• There is a class in Pleasant Valley on tactical attack. The cost is $25.00.
• The grants will start coming out the end of September. The Chief asked if the funds can be designated for the purchase of gear, if the grant does not come through. There was discussion on gear needed for a probationary member. 
• The banquet will be held at Churchtown Firehouse on Saturday, November 2^nd at 7:00 P.M.

MOTION: A motion was made by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer to pay the bills.  All in favor.  So carried.

Commissioner R. Rifenburgh submitted the fuel usage report for August at 52 gallons.

MILAN VOLUNTEER FIRE: Representatives of the Milan Fire Company, Jack Gomm and Larry Brody, came to discuss the budgeting for their contract with Clermont Fire District. They are requesting $2,964.82, just slightly higher than last year’s request of $2,896.00.  Gallatin is trying to decide how to distribute the 2% that comes back to the town through the state comptroller from the insurance companies.  There are specific items that it can be used for.

BUDGET WORKSHOP:

Increased Treasurer and Secretary salaries from $2600 to $2800.

Increased Redemption of Notes from $23,614 to $52,600 for new truck.

Increased Interest on Notes from $$683 to $3,470.

Reduced Transfer to Reserve Fund from $7,359 to zero.

Reduced Association dues from $300 to $175.00.

Increased telephone from $400 to $500.00.

Increased outside fire services from $2896 to $2965.00.

Reduced Repairs to Buildings from $17,150 to $2500.00.  (Paving of parking lot done in 2019)

Increased other insurance from $10,000 to $11,000.

Total Appropriations increased from $174,377 to $185,835.00.

Prior Years Unexpended Balance transferred from truck reserve $17,336.00.

Amount to be Raised by Real Property Taxes $167,664.00 an increase of $3,287 over 2019.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

Bob Desmond asked and Commissioner R. Rifenburgh explained how the 2% is sent to the state and then to the fire company and what they can use it for. 

 A motion was made to adjourn at 9:10 P.M. by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer.  All in favor.  Carried.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon

Fire District Secretary

CLERMONT PLANNING BOARD

September 11, 2019

The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, September 11, 2019 at 7:30 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Larry Saulpaugh, Nathan Hempel, Jennifer Phillips, Tom Jantzen and Clayton Andrus. Others present were George Schmitt, Engineer for the Town, Brian Henchy, Attorney for the Town.

After review of the August 2019 minutes, a motion was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Tom Jantzen, to accept the minutes.  All in favor. So carried.

Adam Pierce, 3542 Route 9G, came before the Board with questions regarding a potential Lot Line Adjustment.

Paul Gates, Tax Map ID# 201.-1-71.3, inquired about the steps for a Lot Line Adjustment.  He plans to purchase 3 lots from Irish Hills.

Joyful Acres, 485 Lasher Road, Tax Map ID# 200.-1-1.200, addressed the questions and comments brought forward by the Summary Letter from George Schmitt, Town Engineer.  Motion to accept the application as complete was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Nathan Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.  Motion for the Planning Board to take the position as lead agency was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Nathan Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.  Motion for Matthew Griesemer, Town Attorney, to circulate a letter regarding lead agency to any interested agencies was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Nathan Hempel.  All in favor.  So carried.

A letter is to be sent to William Cole regarding the expiration of his application for storage units to be located on Route 9G.  If he intends to proceed with the project, he must submit a new application and $2,000.00 for escrow.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary

                                                            CLERMONT TOWN BOARD

                                                                    SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

The Clermont Town Board held their regular meeting on Tuesday, September 3, 2019 due to the Labor Day Holiday at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall.  Those in attendance were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson, Councilman Evan Hempel and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve. There were two other resident present.

Supervisor Staats opened the meeting with a salute to the flag. 

MINUTES: The minutes were reviewed and a few minor spelling errors will be corrected on a motion made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor.  So carried.

TOWN CLERK’S REPORT: The Clerk read the August Town Clerk’s report and presented the Supervisor with a check for the General fund in the amount of $414.73 and for Trust and Agency in the amount of $250.00.

CORRESPONDENCE:

• Keeping Identities of Seniors Safe shredding program will take place September 9 thru September 20.
• Notice of Public hearing in Livingston for a special use permit and site plan approval for a wireless telecommunications facility on September 4, 2019 at 7:00 P.M.
• A letter was received from Germantown Central School requesting the use of the Clermont soccer field while the work is being done on their capital project which will make their fields temporarily unusable. Supervisor Staats has spoken to Superintendent Susan Brown and the school has used the field a few times.
• The board was given the budget and revenue reports for August.
• Web Committee – There was no correspondence or comments.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

• HIGHWAY: Councilman Desmond reported that the old highway truck was sold at auction.
• WEBSITE UPDATE: Councilman Hempel reported that he has been working on the new website. Councilwoman Brownson had a few questions regarding departments that she did not see information on, such as the Planning Board, Board of Ethics and Board of Assessment Review.  Councilman Hempel will look into this.
• GRANTS: Councilwoman Brownson did receive the check from Bank of Greene County for $750.00 for the park entrance. The NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation wrote that the application for construction design for the park did not meet the criteria for funding. She will call about this.

OLD BUSINESS: 

• PARK SIGNAGE: Amy Parrella, a member of the park committee, contacted Supervisor Staats suggesting a kiosk for the sign with park rules. Supervisor Staats asked Councilwoman Brownson to work with Amy on an estimated cost for this. Councilman Desmond thinks there should also be a sign at the entrance to the park.

• SALES TAX REVENUE: Supervisor Staats reported that the sales check received is $105,301.04, about $7000 more than last year at this time.  We are up about 5% over last year’s amount. Councilman Desmond asked if the county is looking at doing something in light of the stores closing. Supervisor Staats is not aware.
• HIGHWAY: The truck on the auction site sold for $10,000.00.  When the check is received it will go into the highway fund.

NEW BUSINESS:

• BUDGET WORKSHOP: The budget workshop will be held on Tuesday, September 17^th at 6:30 P.M. and if necessary, Monday, September 23^rd at 6:30 P.M. This will include any other business that may come before the board.
• RESOLUTION #33-19 in Organizational meeting minutes: A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Hempel to change the hourly rate from $10.00 an hour to prevailing minimum wage for Assessment Review Board, Trial Juror and Secretary – BAR. All in favor.  So carried.

SUPERVISORS REPORT:

• MILL ROAD BRIDGE: The Mill Road bridge has been taken down and they will be putting additional guard rails to keep anyone from going over the edge.
• COUNTY ROADS: Columbia County has in the past contracted with the State to plow roads.  The State is going to take back maintenance of Route 9 and Route 9G.  They were paying the County to maintain these roads in the winter in the past.
• COUNTY BUDGET:  There will be an increase in the County tax and mostly because of the expenditures for health care, which is 3.7 million over budget. But the County says it will stay within the tax cap. Supervisor Staats has not seen the final numbers at this point.  They are looking at changing insurance providers.
• RECYCLING: Councilman Hempel asked if there has been any discussion about recycling costs.  They reported that the costs have leveled out. The Solid Waste Director is happy with what has been collected to date.

ABSTRACTS:

• A motion was made by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Hempel to approve Trust & Agency abstract #9, voucher # 24 in the amount of $33.00.  All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve to approve General abstract #9A, vouchers #238-257 in the amount of $5,145.94.  All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was made by Councilman Hempel, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson to approve General Prepaid abstract #9, vouchers #235 – 237 in the amount of $200.13.  All in favor.  So carried.
• A motion was made by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Hempel to approve Highway abstract #9, vouchers #78-87 in the amount of $5,241.22.  All in favor.  So carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

Mary Howard reported that the Park committee have been meeting and working on a conceptual design for the Park in and around the Little League Field.  They will hold meetings on Monday, September 30^th from 6 – 8 PM on the design for the Hettling Park: Sunday, October 20th from 2 – 4 PM for full review of the draft document and Sunday, November 17^th from 4 – 6 PM for community input on the draft document.  They are hoping to present this to the Town Board at the December 2^nd meeting. The volunteers have been watering the new plantings at the entrance and she thanked the volunteers for their work.

The committee is also requesting a budget of $20,000 to $25, 000 for engineering design work for a plan that would cover the project for the next five to ten-year period. It was also suggested that there be a line item in the budget for someone to coordinate the work getting done in the park, possibly in the form of a stipend. They will continue to look for grants to help defray expenses. 

Phyllis Heiko asked if there was any update regarding homes taken over by the state for persons with disabilities.  There has been no update. She also announced that Lindsey Shute received an award from the Columbia County Land Conservancy, one of three women to be honored because for her impact on landscapes and the community.

A motion was made to adjourn at 7:35 P.M. by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Hempel.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon, RMC

Town Clerk

Clermont Zoning Board of Appeals
1795 Route 9
Germantown, New York 12526

August 28, 2019

The meeting opened at 7:30 pm. The meeting started with a salute to the flag. Members attending: Hank Himelright, Luke Kumburis, Don Van Wagner, Phyllis Heiko and alternate Ben Peacock. 

Hank Himelright asked if anyone had any additions, corrections or omissions to the minutes of the last meeting, July 24, 2019.  A motion to accept the minutes was made by Don Van Wagner, seconded by Luke Kumburis.  All in favor.  So carried.

Joyful Acres, 485 Lasher Road, Tax Map ID# 200.-1-1.200, applicant Alex Wenner, represented by Andrew Didio of Taconic Engineering, presented a Special Use application for a Brewery and Tasting Room.  An existing barn will be converted to the Brew House with an addition of a Tasting Room.  There is an existing well.  The septic plan will be finalized.  The location is 31.6 acres, with an expected disturbance of 3.48 acres.  Developing will be done on the Eastern half of the property.  The tasting room will be adjacent to the existing building, which will be the brewery.  There will be a patio with tables next to the tasting room, a food truck area and walking trails.  Screening will be added to the property line along Lasher Road.  The Board reviewed the site plan.  The developing will be done in phases, with the completion date for the brewery to be early 2020 and the tasting room to be completed in the Summer of 2020. 

Motion to declare the application as complete and accept the application was made by Don Van Wagner, seconded by Luke Kumburis.  All in favor.  So carried.  The Application Fee of $100.00 and Escrow of $250.00 was paid by the applicant. 

Phyllis Heiko made the comment for Hank Himelright and Desiree Webber to receive a pay increase, with Luke Kumburis agreeing. Phyllis Heiko said she will present it to the Town Board at their September meeting.

Motion to adjourn was made by Luke Kumburis, seconded by Don Van Wagner.  All in favor.  So carried.  The meeting adjourned at 8:30pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary

                                                 CLERMONT FIRE COMMISSIONERS

                                                                  AUGUST 19, 2019

The Clermont Fire Commissioners held their regular meeting on Monday, August 19, 2019 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall.  Those in attendance were Chairwoman Susan Rifenburgh, Commissioner Ronald Rifenburgh, Commissioner Ronald Miller and Commissioner Raymond Bauer.  Others present were Treasurer Denise Fiore, Robert Desmond and Firefighter Evan Tompkins

Chairwoman Susan Rifenburgh opened the meeting with the salute to the flag. 

MINUTES:

A motion was made to accept the minutes by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer.  All in favor. So carried.

TREASURERS REPORT:

August 19, 2019 Fire Commissioners’ Treasurer’s Report

RE:  July 2019

Total Amount of July 2019 Invoices Paid                                          $39,926.99

RE:  August 2019

Proposed August 2019 Invoices                                           $ 2,409.30

Paid August 2019 Invoices                                                      2,154.61  

                                                Total                                                                 $ 4,563.91

Reconciliation of Accounts

The Bank of Greene County Balances to Date

Money Market Checking Balance*                                                      $ 125,385.90

*Includes interest paid on 7/31/19 in the amount of $45.32

  Checking Balance                                                                                            5,583.49           

Less Outstanding Checks                                                                                2,475.98

Checking Balance to Date                                                                              3,107.51

Money Market & Checking A/C Total                                              $ 128,493.41

Capital Reserve Fund for Fire Equipment                                        $   29,728.61 (as of 12/31/18)

                Interest 12/31/18 – 1/31/19                                                  $            3.78

                Interest 1/31/19 – 2/28/19                                                                   3.42

                Interest 2/28/19 – 3/31/19                                                                     3.79

                Interest 3/31/19 – 4/30/19                                                                  3.66

                Interest 4/30/19 – 5/31/19                                                                     3.79

                Interest 5/31/19 – 6/30/19                                                               3.67

            Interest 6/30/19 – 7/31/19                                                                 4.63

                Deposit 7/15/19 unexpended 2018 balance                      $12,000.00

                                                                                Total                                 $  41,755.35                                                                                                                                           

                Capital Reserve Fund for Constr. &Improvement:        $   33,666.86 (as of 12/31/18)

                Interest 12/31/18 – 1/31/19                                                                 $            4.29

                Interest 1/31/19 – 2/28/19                                                                       3.87         

                Interest 2/28/19 – 3/31/19                                                                      4.29

                Interest 3/31/19 – 4/30/19                                                                       4.15

                Interest 4/30/19 – 5/31/19                                                                       4.29

                Interest 5/31/19 – 6/30/19                                                                       4.15

                Interest 6/30/19 – 7/31/19                                                                 4.29

                                                                               Total                                 $     33,696.19

Denise Fiore, Treasurer

August 19, 2019

MOTION:  A motion was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer to accept the Treasurer’s report.  All in favor.  So carried.

CORRESPONDENCE:

• Firefighter Evan Tompkins stopped in and expressed interest in taking a CPR course.  The district will sponsor him in taking the course.
• Association of Fire Districts is offering Targeted Regional Training on September 26 in Port Ewen from 6 PM to 9 PM.  Topics will include General Secretary duties, legal issues, annual and special elections and communication between district secretary and commissioners. The cost is $25.00 per person.
• RBC Wealth Management account statement for July – $415,666.14.
• Fire District Affairs for August – September was distributed.
• NYS Police Incident report regarding missing radio.

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS: Commissioner Bauer

• Commissioner Bauer reported that the flag at Station #1 appears to be torn.  If so, he will get a new flag at Williams Lumber. He also reported that the water softener seems to be working.

INSURANCE: Commissioners Rifenburgh and Miller

• The claim for the stolen radio will be submitted to the insurance company by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh.

FIRE EQUIPMENT: Commissioner Bauer and Commissioner R. Rifenbugh

• Truck #6013 has an issue with steering.  Joes Auto greased the front end.  It still has a steering issue.  VRS was called and it seems like it is a relief valve. 
• On one of the compartments a sensor did not go off when the door was open.
•  In the Mini- one compartment light does not go off.

Commissioner Bauer asked if Commissioner R. Rifenburgh will help him out with the fire equipment because he is not that familiar and does not go to fire calls.

LOSAP: All Commissioners

No report

LAWS AND POLICIES: All Commissioners

• Chairwoman Rifenburgh has been looking into the Sexual Harassment policy.  She will be working on this. She asked the secretary to find a template for a new policy and posters that can be printed.

LEGAL: All Commissioners

No report 

OLD BUSINESS:

• FIT TESTS: As of a week or so ago Jackie and Evan Decker had not gotten their FIT tests.
• HYDRANTS: We have gotten permission from the Viewmont Church to work on the dry hydrant and Jim Potts will be putting it in.
• AED: The AED was ordered from Garrison but not sure if it has shipped.  The address is wrong on the invoice so it needs to be changed. Treasurer Fiore will check into it.
• THERMAL IMAGING CAMERA: Prices on new batteries and/or a new camera are to be looked into by the Chief.

NEW BUSINESS:

The truck went to the Fireman’s Convention in Chatham.  It was realized that there was a problem with the steering.  When Commissioner R. Rifenburgh went to check it out he found that the truck was parked close to the gear rack, the gas tank was half full and there was no driver logged in. This is unacceptable.

There was discussion on the new truck and when the first payment would be and what we have to budget for. 

CHIEFS REPORT:

There were 11 calls in July as follows:

7/5/19 – Mutual Aid Tivoli – Tivoli Firehouse

7/6/19 – Wire on tree burning – 703 Church Ave.

7/6/19 – Tree down – Woods Road/County Route 6

7/6/19 – Mutual aid Tivoli/Wires down – Davis Lane

7/6/19 – Wires Down – Route 9/Pine Lane/Sharon Drive

7/10/19 – Mutual aid Standby Livingston – structure fire

7/17/19 – Mutual aid Tivoli – AAPI – 8403 Albany Post Road

7/17/19 – Mutual Aid Germantown – Fill site at Palatine Park

7/17/19 – Mutual Aid Germantown –Standby – 1320 Woods Road

7/25/19 – Electrical odor in residence – 850 County Route 8

7/26/19- Generator assistance for medical issue – 555 Lasher Road

MONTHLY DRILLS/WORK DETAILS:

7/22/19 – Draft site hose connections – 6 firefighters

7/23/19 – Drill nozzle trial – 7 firefighters

7/25/19 – Truck detail for parade – 3 firefighters

7/27/19 – Chatham Parade – 6 firefighters

7/30/19 – Driver training/Josh Williams – 2 firefighters

7/31/19 – Driver training/Josh /Williams – 2 firefighters

MOTION TO PAY BILLS:  A motion was made by Commissioner R. Rifenburgh, seconded by Commissioner Bauer to pay the bills. All in favor.  So carried.

Treasurer Fiore will check on shipping address.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

Bob Desmond asked if a truck went to the Red Hook parade. It did not because it was being used for Les Coon’ wedding.

FUEL USAGE:

88.1 gallons

Next month is the budget meeting.

A motion was made to adjourn by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Commissioner Bauer at 8:20 P.M. All in favor.  So carried.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon

Fire District Secretary

CLERMONT PLANNING BOARD

 August 14, 2019

The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, August 14, 2019 at 7:30 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those in attendance were Larry Saulpaugh, Nathan Hempel, Mary Howard, Ron Miller, Jennifer Phillips, Tom Jantzen and Clayton Andrus. Others present were Richard Andreassen, Engineer for the Town, Brian Henchy, Attorney for the Town.

After review of the July 2019 minutes, a motion was made by Mary Howard, seconded by Clayton Andrus, to accept the minutes.  All in favor. So carried.

Billy Cole came before the Board with a revised site plan for storage units be located on Rt 9G.  There was the addition of storm water drainage and lighting.  Storm water will drain to a level spreader at the back of the property.  George Schmitt, Engineer for the Town, will review the revised plans and present his comments to the Planning Board at the next monthly meeting in September.

Joyful Acres, 485 Lasher Road, Tax Map ID# 200.-1-1.200, applicant Alex Wenner, represented by Andrew Didio of Taconic Engineering, presented a site plan for a Brewery and Tasting Room.  An existing barn will be converted to the Brew House with an addition of a Tasting Room.  There is an existing well.  The septic plan will be finalized.  The location is 31.6 acres, with an expected disturbance of 3.48 acres.

Motion to adjourn was made by Jennifer Phillips, seconded by Mary Howard.  All in favor. So carried.  The meeting adjourned at 8:40pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary

                                                           CLERMONT TOWN BOARD

                                                                        AUGUST 2, 2019

The Clermont Town Board held the August meeting on Friday, August 2, 2019 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town Hall.  This meeting was rescheduled from the normal Monday night meeting because of conflicts.  Those in attendance were Supervisor Raymond Staats, Councilman Robert Desmond, Councilwoman Dawn Brownson and Councilman Kris Gildersleeve.  Councilman Evan Hempel was absent. Others present were representatives from New York Transco, a New York Energy Solution company, Shannon Baxevanis, Courtney Canfield and Nicole Marron of Burn & McDonnell, Lindsey Shute of Hearty Roots was also present.

Supervisor Staats opened the meeting with the salute to the flag.  He then introduced Shannon Baxevanis to address the electric transmission upgrade to take place from Schodack to Pleasant Valley.  The upgrades will replace aging infrastructure, stay within the existing ROW, eliminate some towers from the ROW, create clean energy resources, create jobs and tax revenues.  A new switching station would be created in Schodack on utility-owned property.  The area in Clermont affected is approximately 0.7 miles with eight structures being removed and replaced with four in existing rights of way or on utility owned property in the Turkey Hill Road area.

A meeting for the public will held at the Clermont Community House on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 from 11:00 A. M. to 1:00 P.M. and 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. Further details will be made available as they develop.

MINUTES: The minutes of the July meeting were reviewed and a motion was made by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson to accept them.  All in favor.  So carried.

TOWN CLERK’S REPORT: The Clerk read the Town Clerk’s report for July and a check in the amount of $6,545.56 for the General fund was presented to the Supervisor.

CORRESPONDENCE:

• The Reach Center, a program of the Mental Health Association of Columbia-Greene Counties provides free and confidential services to survivors of crime and abuse in the twin counties. Brochures have been provided on services of referrals and information, education and prevention programming, advocacy, crisis counseling and therapy, human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
• Received the budget and revenue reports from July from Supervisor Staats.
• There were no questions or comments for the web committee.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

• HIGHWAY TRUCK: Councilman Desmond reported that the old highway truck is on the auction website and is hoping to get around $10,000.00.
• HETTLING PARK: Councilman Gildersleeve wants to thank everyone on the park committee.  They have been rotating watering of the plants at the entrance on Route 9 and everything is in bloom and looking good.
• OFFICE OF PARKS, RECREATION, HISTORIC PRESERVATION GRANT: Councilwoman Brownson and Mary Howard worked on submitting a grant for $25,000 to fund engineering services to develop the park trails development.  This is a matching fund grant.

OLD BUSINESS:

• BUILDINGS: Supervisor Staats reported that the building repairs have been completed from the May 2018 hail storm. Payment will be made on this abstract to B/T General Contractors.   The total was about $30,000.00 and is offset by insurance.

NEW BUSINESS:

• Because of additional money received for Storm recovery and additional CHIPS money it is necessary to do Budget amendment #4 in the Highway Fund to Improvements DA5112.2 in the amount of $8,906.25 from State Aid – Chips DA03601 $8,906.25. A motion was made to approve Budget amendment #4 of 2019 by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilman Desmond.  All in favor.  So carried.
• PARK SIGN: The Park Committee has submitted suggestions for a sign outlining the rules for the park.  The Board reviewed these suggestions and below is the final version with corrections: Welcome to the Hettling Park at Clermont Grounds are open sunrise to sunset. Take only pictures, leave only footprints.

For the safety of all guests, please:

• Carry in, carry out
• Be aware that ticks in this area may carry Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases.
• Keep domestic animals on a leash no more than six feet in length.
• Remove any domestic animal waste.

The following are prohibited:

Glass containers                                              Alcohol and illegal drugs

Smoking or Vaping                                         Open fires, grills or barbecues

Vandalism                                                       Fireworks or explosives

Snowmobiles                                                   Swimming or bathing

Pets on Sports Fields                                      Hunting

Discharging of firearms or other weapons    

Causing or risking a public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm

Driving any motorized vehicle on non-paved areas or off designated roadways.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Please notify Law Enforcement of any concerns or hazardous conditions by calling Columbia County 911 and/or Columbia County Sheriffs Department at 518-828-3344. 

For a complete list of park rules, please go to www.clermontny.gov/park.                        …

There was discussion as to how to anchor the sign without penetrating the membrane.

SUPERVISORS REPORT:

• Received the sales tax 2^nd quarter check from the County in the amount of $105,301.40.  This is about 7 ½% more than received last year. This is good news for our budget.
• Supervisor Staats thanked the volunteers that have been watering the plantings at the park entrance.
• The Mill Road bridge has been taken down. It has not been completely closed off and there is more to be cleaned up.
• County Budget: The preliminary talks have begun and the Supervisor will vote against any increase in the County budget as the revenues have been increasing.
• Sexual Harassment Training: Councilwoman Brownson asked about the training of employees.  Supervisor Staats has talked to the insurance company and they feel that as long as the full-time employees have had their training, which is three in Clermont, that it is not necessary for all to go through the training.

ABSTRACTS:

A motion was made to approve Highway abstract #8, vouchers #69-77 in the amount of $40,438.80 by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made to approve Trust & Agency abstract #8, vouchers #22-23, in the amount of $427.00 by Councilwoman Brownson, seconded by Councilman Desmond.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made to approve General abstract #8A, vouchers #208 – 234 in the amount of $34,223.95 by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson.  All in favor.  So carried.

A motion was made to approve General prepaid abstract #8, vouchers #205-207 in the amount of $173.48 by Councilman Desmond, seconded by Councilman Gildersleeve.  All in favor.  So carried.

The Zoning Board has requested the Town Board to review the process for the applicant who is applying for a special permit.  Currently, the applicant appears before the ZBA and then is sent to the Planning Board for site plan review.  The ZBA would like the applicant to go to the planning board first because legal and engineering counsel is readily available to the Planning Board.  After their review it would come back to the ZBA. The town board thinks that they should continue working as they are now and if they have any questions refer to the attorney or engineer. We can look into this further with the chairpersons.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

Lindsey Shute, a member of the park committee, has asked about joining the two parks together which has been discussed at the committee meetings. This is something that can be discussed in the future.

Lindsey asked if a decision had been made as to the design for the park entrance sign.  There have not been any definite designs submitted but will talk to Mary Howard.

A motion was made to adjourn by Councilman Gildersleeve, seconded by Councilwoman Brownson at 8:20 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Helen Shannon, RMC

Town Clerk

Clermont Zoning Board of Appeals
1795 Route 9
Germantown, New York 12526

July 24, 2019

The meeting opened at 7:30 pm. The meeting started with a salute to the flag. Members attending: Hank Himelright, Luke Kumburis, Don Van Wagner, John Rusconi and Phyllis Heiko. 

Hank Himelright asked if anyone had any additions, corrections or omissions to the minutes of the last meeting, May 22, 2019.  A motion to accept the minutes as corrected was made by Phyllis Heiko, seconded by John Rusconi.  All in favor.  So carried.

Anne Katrin Spiess, 356 County Route 6, Tax ID# 179.-1-48, Eric Maskell contacted Hank Himelright regarding the need to move the panels further back on the Spiess project, due to an unknown right of way.

Hank Himelright said every special permit is dependent on the Planning Board and feels the applicants should go before the Planning Board prior to coming before the ZBA.  The fact the Town Attorney and Town Engineer are present at the Planning Board meetings, errors could be avoided by the ZBA when issuing a special permit.  Motion to submit a letter to the Town Board, asking for a change in the order of applicants to appear before the ZBA and Planning Board was made by Phyllis Heiko, seconded by Don Van Wagner.  All in favor.  So carried.

Motion to adjourn was made by Phyllis Heiko, seconded by Luke Kumburis.  All in favor.  So carried.  The meeting adjourned at 8:10pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Desiree M. Webber, Secretary