HomeMy WebLinkAboutTB 2025-10-16 attTB 10-16-25
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TOWN OF DRYDEN
TOWN BOARD MEETING
October 16, 2025
Zoom Hybrid
Present: Supervisor Jason Leifer, Cl Daniel Lamb, Cl Christina Dravis, Cl
Spring Buck
Absent: Cl Leonardo Vargas-Mendez
Elected Officials: Bambi L. Avery, Town Clerk
Other Town Staff: Ray Burger, Planning Director
*Cassie Byrnes, Secretary to the Supervisor
*Indicates attendance via Zoom
Supv Leifer opened the meeting at 6:04 p.m.
RESOLUTION #164 (2025) – APPROVE MINUTES
Supv Leifer offered the following resolution and asked for its resolution:
RESOLVED, that this Town Board hereby approves the meeting minutes of September
11 and September 18, 2025.
2nd Cl Leifer
Roll Call Vote Cl Buck Yes
Cl Dravis Yes
Cl Lamb Yes
Supv Leifer Yes
Presentation – Dryden Center for Community
Stephanie Ortolano, Executive Director for the Dryden Center for Community,
introduced Tom Sinclair, president, and secretary to the board, Cathy Wakeman. She said the
community has been talking about the need for a community center for 30 years and the
Methodist church recently became available. The group quickly formed and began fundraising
and are now able to purchase the building for $275,000. This initial fundraising is due in part
to a single anonymous donation of $200,000. The fundraising efforts to reach a goal of
$400,000 will continue for closing costs, utilities, staff salaries, and such.
The village’s NY Forward grant funds cannot be used to purchase property, but can be
used for improvements, and they have applied for assistance for renovations including air
source heat pumps for year-round heating and cooling, new flooring appropriate for dance and
yoga activities, kitchen renovations and potentially upgrading the elevator.
The mission of the group is to turn the building into a hub for creativity and
connection. The building provides space for a variety of programming including music, dance,
and teaching space. Partnerships are being discussed with TC3’s culinary arts program and
Ithaca’s Suzuki Music Education. They will continue the community meals and provide
meeting space for other organizations. The sanctuary space seats 190 and will function as a
multi-use performance space. It contains a 1934 Wicks pipe organ and S Ortolano has been
approached to provide lessons.
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The Homer Center for Arts has agreed to be their fiscal sponsor while they await 501(c)3
status from the IRS. They have also begun discussions on collaborating with some
performances. S Ortolano said many people and organizations have been interested in renting
space for classes and meeting space. While they are separate from the town and village , many
residents are interested in helping and they would appreciate support.
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
Ray Burger has provided the board with his monthly report. Some of the items on it will
come up later in the agenda.
DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS
Supv Leifer said a budget modification is needed to account for payments of $25,000
each to WB Strong Fire Department and Varna Fire Department for covering areas formerly
covered by the Etna Fire Department.
RESOLUTION #165 (2025) – APPROVE BUDGET MODIFICATION
Supv Leifer offered the following resolution and asked for its adoption:
RESOLVED, that this Town Board hereby approves the following budget modification:
From To
50,000.00 SF1-3410.407 Etna Fire Department SF-3410.405 WB Strong Fire Dept 25,000.00
SF1-3410.403 Varna Fire Dept 25,000.00
2nd Cl Lamb
Roll Call Vote Cl Buck Yes
Cl Dravis Yes
Cl Lamb Yes
Supv Leifer Yes
A budget modification has been requested to cover the expense of additional code books
for the Planning Department.
RESOLUTION #166 (2025) – APPROVE BUDGET MODIFICATION
Supv Leifer offered the following resolution and asked for its adoption:
RESOLVED, that this Town Board hereby approves the following budget modification:
From To
B3620.201
Code Enforcement
Equipment B3620.401
Code Enforcement
Contractual
2,000.00
2nd Cl Dravis
Roll Call Vote Cl Buck Yes
Cl Dravis Yes
Cl Lamb Yes
Supv Leifer Yes
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Introduction of Project
Special Use Permit
Telecommunications Tower
471 Snyder Hill Rd
Airian Eastman of T Mobile described the project and board members have received the
Planning Department’s memo. This was originally presented as a colocation on the 471 Snyder
Hill Road tower, but it was discovered there had been no equipment on it in some time, so it
was deemed a new build. T Mobile will put equipment on the existing tower and add ground
equipment with no change to the existing tower or footprint. This will provide better coverage
for T Mobile. There was an engineering inspection and subsequent report and any deficiencies
were remedied. The Planning Board is waiting for a 239-review response. A public hearing was
scheduled for November 20, 2025 at 6:05 p.m.
DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS (continued)
Wastewater System Improvements – Hanshaw Village MHP – R Burger explained that
this project was designed this summer and a CDBG application was submitted in September.
It is approximately a 2.3-million-dollar project to extend sewer lines up Hanshaw Rd to the first
mobile home park. Most of the work will take place in the highway right-of-way. There is a
wetland within the property, but any installations inside the park would be done by the
owners. They hope to hear about the grant by the end of the calendar year, with a potential
build in 2026. The board reviewed the environmental assessment form and determined there is
no or little impact.
Resolution #167 (2025) - Negative SEQR Declaration – Wastewater System Improvements
at Hanshaw Village Mobile Home Community (MHC) and along Hanshaw Road
Supv Leifer offered the following resolution and asked for its adoption:
WHEREAS,
A. The proposed action involves rehabilitation of the wastewater system at the Hanshaw Village
Mobile Home Community (MHC) by installing a force main along Hanshaw Road to connect the
MHC to the public sewer, work to include the decommissioning of the existing wastewater
treatment lagoon; and
B. The proposed action is an Unlisted Action for which the Town Board of the Town of Dryden
is the lead agency for the purposes of coordinated environmental review in connection with
approval by the Town; and
C. The Town Board of the Town of Dryden, in performing the lead agency function for its
independent and coordinated environmental review in accordance with Article 8 of SEQRA, (i)
thoroughly reviewed the Environmental Assessment Form (“EAF”), Part I and an y and all other
documents prepared and submitted with respect to this proposed action and its environmental
review, (ii) thoroughly analyzed the potential relevant areas of environmental concern to
determine if the proposed action may have a significant adverse impact on the environment,
including the criteria identified in 6 NYCRR §617.7(c), and (iii) completed the EAF, Part 2.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:
1. The Town Board of the Town of Dryden, based upon (i) its thorough review of the EAF, Part I
and any and all other documents prepared and submitted with respect to this proposed action
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and its environmental review, (ii) its thorough review of the potential relevant areas of
environmental concern to determine if the proposed action may have a significant adverse
impact on the environment, including the criteria identified in 6 NYCRR §617.7(c), and (iii) its
completion of the EAF, Part 2, including the reasons noted thereon (which reasons are
incorporated herein as if set forth at length), hereby makes a negative determination of
environmental significance (“Negative Declaration”) in accordance with SEQR for the above
referenced proposed action, and determines that an Environmental Impact Statement will not
be required; and
2. The Planning Director of the Town of Dryden is hereby authorized and directed to complete
and sign as required the determination of significance, confirming the foregoing Negative
Declaration, which fully completed and signed EAF and determination of significance shall be
incorporated by reference in this Resolution.
2nd Cl Leifer
Roll Call Vote Cl Buck Yes
Cl Dravis Yes
Cl Lamb Yes
Supv Leifer Yes
DRYDEN FIBER
Dave Makar, Executive Director, Dryden Fiber, reported this has been a very full month
with closing in on signing the GDA, the Freeville expansion, and focusing on the MDUs and
challenging locations to reach with fiber. There are now 476 paying customers. Monthly
revenue grew to $26,000. No new parcels were added. The focus has been on make-ready work
and getting bids completed and awarded. They believe construction will start between now and
Nov 2nd in the Freeville area and they will soon be able to serve an additional 900 plus parcels.
That region should be completed by March 1.
They will be bidding out the rest in the town of Dryden not covered by this awarded
area. It is being designed, and they hope to have bids in November with work to start in
January. There is an 180-day estimated buildout time frame. The third bid will be for all of
the town of Caroline part of the MIP award. If everything comes together construction should
be completed by late next year.
Marketing efforts included an email blast to current customers with a refer a friend offer
and more signage.
The Empire Development board had a hearing yesterday, and we are very close to
getting the GDA signed and then will be able to submit for reimbursement.
The repair project has wrapped up following the physical audit. Over 270 anchors and
guywires were installed.
Inventory account management has been brought in-house, and they hope to hire an
account manager in January.
The Caroline Central Office building needs Dryden Board approval. A groundbreaking
ceremony will be held in Caroline on October 27 at 12:30.
Identification badges have been secured for personnel working on the Dryden Fiber
project and door hangers have been received to help with the marketing effort as potential new
customer areas are identified. It is estimated to take about three days from service request to
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install in ready areas. Stickers for equipment for Dryden Fiber were purchased and will be
placed on all Dryden Fiber equipment.
Resolution #168 (2025) - Approve Purchase of Materials for Dryden Fiber
Cl Buck offered the following resolution and asked for its adoption:
Whereas, to continue to build the Dryden Fiber network for MIP locations, more materials need
to be purchased from our supplier, Graybar.
Therefore, be it resolved that the Board approves the purchase of a variety of materials from
Graybar for $9,445.74 as listed in Quote #2000819812 dated October 14, 2025.
2nd Supv Leifer
Roll Call Vote Cl Buck Yes
Cl Dravis Yes
Cl Lamb Yes
Supv Leifer Yes
D Makar asked that the resolution to approve the electrical work for the Caroline Hut
work be increased to $29,500 to cover the extra work needed to accommodate an EV charging
station.
Resolution #169 (2025) - Authorize Supervisor to sign Electrical work for Dryden Fiber
Caroline Hut Project
Supv Leifer offered the following resolution and asked for its adoption:
Whereas, request for quotes was put out for the electrical work and other civil site work
for the Dryden Fiber Caroline Hut project and,
Whereas, the quotes were reviewed and evaluated by Vantage Point Solutions, who
provided the town with a recommendation to accept the quote from B&H Electrical Contractors
Resolved, that this Town Board hereby authorizes the Town Supervisor to sign the
contract for $29,500.00 to perform electrical work and civil site work for the Dryden Fiber
Caroline Hut.
2nd Cl Lamb
Roll Call Vote Cl Buck Yes
Cl Dravis Yes
Cl Lamb Yes
Supv Leifer Yes
D Makar described a videographer service he would like to use for the Caroline
groundbreaking. The product could be used in future marketing strategies. The cost will not
exceed $1,500.
RESOLUTION #170 (2025) – Authorize Agreement with Jeremiah Craig Media, LLC
Cl Buck offered the following resolution and asked for its adoption:
Whereas, Dryden Fiber does not have an in-house professional quality videographer,
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Whereas, Dryden Fiber is conducting a groundbreaking on Monday, October 27, 2025
and would like to use video from the event to promote Dryden Fiber,
Whereas, Dryden Fiber has received a quote from Jeremiah Craig Media LLC to create a
promotional video covering the Groundbreaking Ceremony,
Therefore, be it resolved, that the Town Board authorizes the Supervisor to sign a
Statement of Work with Jeremiah Craig Media LLC not to exceed $1,500.00.
2nd Cl Lamb
Roll Call Vote Cl Buck Yes
Cl Dravis Yes
Cl Lamb Yes
Supv Leifer Yes
Discussion/Action Items (continued)
The Planning Department no longer needs the 201 2 Honda Insight and would like to
sell it at auction.
RESOLUTION #171 (2025) – DECLARE 2012 HONDA INSIGHT AS SURPLUS
Cl Buck offered the following resolution and asked for its adoption:
RESOLVED, that the Planning Department’s red 2012 Honda Insight hybrid vehicle is
hereby declared surplus and shall be auctioned, with proceeds being restored to the Planning
Department’s B fund.
2nd Cl Dravis
Roll Call Vote Cl Buck Yes
Cl Dravis Yes
Cl Lamb Yes
Supv Leifer Yes
RFP for Feasibility Study – There is a 100-acre undeveloped parcel near the NYSEG
building. There was a previous infrastructure study in this area. The Affordable & Workforce
Housing committee has been investigating development of this area and a grant in the amount
of $9,900 has been received to be used toward a feasibility study. An RFP has been drafted
(attached).
Resolution #172 (2025) - Release Request for Proposals for Feasibility Study
for 100-acre Undeveloped Parcel on Route 13
Supv Leifer offered the following resolution and asked for its adoption:
WHEREAS,
1. The “NYSEG area” has been identified as a potential nodal area and a prime location for
housing and commercial development. This potential as an “emerging node” was
reiterated in the county’s 2008 NYS Route 13/366 Corridor Management Plan and the
2012 report “Building Vibrant Communities in Tompkins County;” and
2. The Dryden2045 update to the Town of Dryden’s Comprehensive Plan also identified
this nodal area and stated a Goal RR 1 – Encourage Availability of Affordable Housing
Choices with the corresponding Action RR 1.1.2 of Encourage compact, energy saving
development in nodal areas that increases the availability of affordable single and multi -
family housing options; and
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3. Tompkins County invested in consideration of this parcel for development by helping to
fund an engineering study to estimate the cost to extend water and sewer to this parcel
(in-process); and
4. The Town of Dryden has secured a $9,900 grant through the County’s 2025 Housing
Affordability and Supportive Infrastructure Grant (HASIG) Program to hire a consultant
to produce a feasibility study exploring the potential of developing this 100-acre parcel
on Route 13; and
5. The Affordable and Workforce Housing Committee has created a draft Request for
Proposals to hire a consultant to conduct research and provide a feasibility study for
mixed commercial and affordable housing elements to be situated on this site as a
prelude to any development.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:
The Town Board approves release of this Request for Proposals in order to secure expert
consulting to create this feasibility study.
2nd Cl Lamb
Roll Call Vote Cl Buck Yes
Cl Dravis Yes
Cl Lamb Yes
Supv Leifer Yes
Data Centers/Crypto Mining – The Planning Board has provided town board members
with a resolution of the board, a proposed local law, and other information regarding whether
and where to allow data centers in the town. The proposed law has not yet been reviewed by
the town attorney and so would not be ready for a public hearing by the November business
meeting. Cl Lamb said members of the Planning Board are split on whether to ban this activity
completely or allow it, regulated, in the light industrial zone. He encouraged members to read
the material while the town attorney reviews the proposed law.
Climate Action Committee – The committee has drafted a new mission, goals and by-
laws and provided those to the board for review. Cl Buck remarked she is glad that this group
is continuing the work of the former Climate Smart Task Force.
Committee Appointments –
RESOLUTION #173 (2025) – APPOINT HOUSING COMMITTEE MEMBER
Cl Dravis offered the following resolution and asked for its adoption:
RESOLVED, that this Town Board hereby appoints Ryan McHugh to the Affordable and
Workforce Housing Committee.
2nd Supv Leifer
Roll Call Vote Cl Buck Yes
Cl Dravis Yes
Cl Lamb Yes
Supv Leifer Yes
RESOLUTION #174 (2025) – APPOINT DRYC MEMBER
Supv Leifer offered the following resolution and asked for its adoption:
RESOLVED, that this Town Board hereby appoints Rachel Sumner to the Dryden
Recreation and Youth Commission for a term to expire December 31, 2027.
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2nd Cl Lamb
Roll Call Vote Cl Buck Yes
Cl Dravis Yes
Cl Lamb Yes
Supv Leifer Yes
CITIZENS PRIVILEGE
Carol Nelson, 216 Etna Road, said that many people in Etna are very concerned that
they no longer have a fire department close by. Giving taxpayer money to the other
departments does not buy the experience that the Etna Department has. They are dedicated to
taking care of the community and want to help their neighbors. She recently started helping
with pancake breakfasts there and would like to see them respond if she needed help. Giving
the money to other departments, raising taxes, and having less coverage will not buy the
experience.
Kim Dupcak, 23 Etna Road, said she was not aware of this going on when most of the
decision making happened. She regrets that and asks if there was any effort to negotiate the
amount of money in the contract. Was there any effort of support to help them continue and
improve?
Supv Leifer said there was effort for many years, but the board did not feel like the most
recent presentation met the expectations of the board. Last fall during budget meetings they
heard from other departments what was going on. When asked if the board would consider a
new proposal, he said they are not interested in that. The board is considering moving to a fire
district and Etna could be part of that district.
K Dupcak said this has affected her personally when they needed medical help, and it
has affected her homeowner insurance. She is also anxious to have Dryden Fiber.
Cl Lamb said the board does not want anyone to feel they do not have coverage, and the
board is sustaining the other departments. There is a plan coming forward that will integrate
the resources and personnel and they want Etna to be part of that.
ADVISORY BOARD UPDATES
Workforce & Affordable Housing – They discussed the HASIG RFP and voted to
recommend McHugh as a member.
Conservation Board – The Bob Beck memorial tree planting will occur November 1 and
they are looking for volunteers. They worked on choosing the bench design and plaque. A
liaison on the ZAG team shared conversations on data centers and there was a thoughtful
discussion. There are split opinions on the topic. They discussed concerns about Dryden Lake
dam, its current state, and where funding for repairs/replacement might come from. Cl Lamb
asked that his newsletter article be shared with them and let them know he has spoken with
Anna Kelles.
The liaison to the ag committee had some concerns about a proposed animal
confinement law and some language that was in that. Conservation Board members had some
feedback as well.
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Planning Board – They have spent a lot of time researching data centers and crypto
mining and put their findings to paper for the town board. A sketch plan for a proposed project
of three duplex units at 338 Lower Creek Road was reviewed.
Climate Action Committee – About twenty-five people attended the Repair Café on
October 4. A resident sent an unsolicited email about how happy she was to get her lamp
repaired.
Rail Trail Task Force – They have been working on a proposal for a route between
Pinckney Road and Freeville with a consultant and should have something for consideration in
the next couple of weeks. There has been a flurry of activity between R Burger, the consultant,
and DOT about the rail trail bridge. They are hoping to go out to bid shortly.
There will be a dedication ceremony for a Peace Pole on the trail near the Dryden
Creamery on October 22 at 4:00 p.m.
Ag Advisory Committee – They spent time talking about a proposed animal
confinement law.
Recreation & Youth Committee – They are still waiting to hear from CHA about grant
writing and engineering services. There is a place holder in the budget of $25,000 for that, but
it may be necessary to increase that amount.
Cl Lamb reported that TCCOG recently passed two resolutions. One supports the
pending legislation requiring every county to have an ambulance and EMS plan in New York
State. Tompkins County is already doing that. The other resolution encourages the cou nty
and the state to ban discharge of biosolids on farm fields, which often contain forever
chemicals. Both resolutions were unanimously passed.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Bambi L. Avery
Town Clerk
Dryden Center for
Community
A hub for creativity and connection at the heart of the Village of Dryden
Who are we?
●Executive Director - Stephanie Ortolano
●President of the Board - Tom Sinclair
●Secretary of the Board - Cathy Wakeman
●Board members: Nikki Button, Sam & Amber
Gellar-Smith, Lily Hollister, Cindy Kjellander-Cantu,
Zoe Leonard, Kim Schenck, Craig Schutt, Rich Winter
A Community Center?
●For a number of years and in at least 2 community
assessments, the people of Dryden have been asking for a
multigenerational community center
●The closing of the Dryden United Methodist Church
provided an opportunity to create that center
○The price of the building is much lower than the cost of
new construction
Vision Statement
Our vision is that the Dryden Center for
Community will be an inclusive gathering place
where the sounds and sights of community
creativity always stream through its open doors.
We want to create a welcoming space for
everyone in the greater Dryden community.
New York Forward
●This $4.5mil grant will be transforming our Main Street
●The DCC will provide a solid anchor for that development:
○Programs for residents and visitors
○Preservation of historic building
○Collaboration with local businesses and organizations
●We have applied for funding through this grant for upgrades
to the facility, including air source heat pumps
●Grant funds cannot be used to purchase property
What is the space like?
●Large fellowship hall
●Commercial kitchen
●2 medium sized spaces on first floor - meeting rooms
●Office space
●Sanctuary that currently seats 190 - multi-use performance
venue
●7 classroom spaces - ideal for private music and art
instruction
How will we fund this?
●Business plan includes:
○Rental of spaces at reasonable rates for parties and
events
○Events sponsored by the DCC
○Regular tenants - possibly including TC3 Culinary Arts
and Ithaca Suzuki Music Education
○Memberships/Donations from the community
○Grants from state and private foundations
Current Fundraising Goal
●We are looking to raise $400,000 in our first year to cover
the cost of the building plus initial costs for
renovations/staff/insurance
●Independent from village and town, but we’d love your
support!
Conclusion
●This is a community center for the whole village.
●We will be offering classes/workshops/events
starting in January 2026.
●We are looking for contributions of time, ideas,
and financial support.
For more information
●Contact: info@drydencenter.org
●Website: https://drydencenter.org
DRYDEN FIBER
MONTHLY REPORT
for September 2025
TOWN OF DRYDEN BROADBAND COMMITTEE MEETING on Oct. 3, 2025
And
DRYDEN TOWN BOARD on Oct. 16, 2025
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY –10/3/2025
We have 476 paying customers (+8 in September);We had 27 in-bound requests
o Monthly Revenue (August 2025): $26,020 (+$485)
We added 0 new parcels,we remain at 1,815 parcels (30.9% of the Town of Dryden)
Freeville Extension RFP has been awarded (Sept. 18)
o 900+ new parcels; 25+ miles of fiber; 60 business day build plan estimated
Marketing: Email Blast to 470+ customers; Refer-a-friend; signage
Empire State Development (ESD) Board approved increase to project: $11.6M of a
$12.6M expansion will be paid by the state (reimburseable)
Network Audit has begun: Assessment and Documentation of Network
Repair Project has wrapped up: 270+ anchors and guywires installed
Bringing Inventory and Account Management in-house
MIP Scoreboard –October 2025
As of October 1, 2025
Months to go:
23.1
----------
186.2
(12.4%)
MIP Miles Completed*
256
----------
2,711
(9.4%)
# of Parcels Reached
4
----------
470
(0.9%)
# of Unserved Reached
0
----------
74
(0.0%)
# of Underserved Reached
49
----------
400
(12.3%)
# of MIP Installs
15
--------
30
(50%)
Goals for 2025
As of 10/1/25, we have 476
customers live on the platform
Current estimates:
o 20 more each month 2025
(Oct-Dec)
o 536 total by 12/31/25 (-
481 from initial goal)
Note:Demand is slowing:
1,458 sign-ups on the online
form: 550+ are not yet in
green zone
Month Projected
New
Goal
Totals
Actual
New
Actual
Totals Diff
December 65 240 65 240 0
January 62 302 54 294 -8
February 65 367 42 336 -31
March 65 432 28 364 -6
April 65 497 22 383 -114
May 65 562 22 402 -157
June 65 627 30 432 -195
July 65 692 20 452 -240
August 65 757 +20 472 -285
September 65 822 +8 476 -346
October 65 887
November 65 952
December 65 1017
Project Highlights
Project Name:Dryden Fiber Expansion
for Towns of Dryden and Caroline
Applicant and Partner(s):Town of
Dryden dba, Dryden Fiber and Town of
Caroline
Construction Miles (Fiber): 147
Total Locations Served:2,711
ConnectALL Grant Amount: $ 11,641,537.00
Local Contribution: $ 906,321.00
Total Project Investment: $ 12,547,858.00
MIP SUMMARY – 10/3/2025
The Municipal Infrastructure Program (MIP) Updates:
o Sept. 18, 2025, 9:30am -Empire State Development (ESD) board met and approved the expansion of our grant from
$8.9M to $11.6M
o October 2025 – TBD Date: October ESD Public Hearing
o October 15, 2025, 2pm -Public Authorities Control Board (PACB) Hearing
o Wait: 3-4 weeks for billable amount of public hearings (< $500)
o November 5 to 12 – Dryden Town Supervisor signs Grant Disbursement Agreement
o Upon GDA receipt, we can sign, and submit our first reimbursement request, which we estimate to be around $2M in
project expenses from June 16, 2024 through August 31, 2025. We expect to receive this payment in early Q1 2026.
Caroline Central Office construction begins next week
o Gravel, pad, conduit pipes for utilities
o Bids opened September 5 for construction of Hut at Caroline Town Hall
o Groundbreaking in Caroline slated for October 27, 2025 at 12:30pm (awaiting governor confirmation)
Permits and Contractors for Electrical Make Ready Are moving forward
o We've awarded 20 bids for electrical make ready (moving attachments on poles, replacing poles)
o H. Richardson & Sons (HRS) reported on 9.4.25 that they will have 7 crews working on the project at once
Caroline Groundbreaking
Re: Groundbreaking Ceremony for Dryden Fiber Expansion in the Town of Caroline
On behalf of the Dryden Fiber project and our expansion to the town of Caroline, we are excited to invite you to our groundbreaking
ceremony on Monday, October 27, 2025 at 12:30pm at the Caroline Town Hall (2670 Slaterville Rd., Slaterville Springs, NY).
We cordially invite you to join us as we break ground on the next phase of community-owned broadband in our region. This historic
event marks a milestone in bringing reliable, affordable, high-speed internet access to more of our neighbors.
Event Details
Date: Monday, October 27, 2025
Time: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Location: Caroline Town Hall, 2670 Slaterville Rd, Slaterville Springs, NY 14881
Dress Code: Business casual / outdoor-appropriate attire (event will be held outdoors on a construction site; sturdy shoes
recommended).
Format: Standing event with limited seating available for dignitaries and guests requiring accommodation.
Please RSVP by October 15, 2025
Contact: David Makar, Dryden Fiber Executive Director, dave@drydenfiber.com, 607-844-7800
We look forward to celebrating this exciting step forward for community broadband with you.
Tompkins County
Caroline Groundbreaking Tiger Team
Team: Dave Makar, Mark
Witmer,Cassie Byrnes
Guest Speakers:
Governor Hochul
Execute director Dave Makar
Town supervisor Jason Leifer
Town supervisor Mark Witmer
TBD
Name Organization
Governor Kathy Hochul*New York State
Chuck Schumer US Senate
Kirsten Gillibrand US Senate
Josh Reilly US House of Representatives
Leah Webb NY State Senate
Anna Kelles
Brietbart Office
Office
Construction Status Report
New Process:
1.Step 1: Design Book to winning bidder for all
construction and splicing
2.Step 2: Construction Partner builds (constructs)
3.Step 3: Construction Partner splices
4.Step 4: Construction Partner documents changes
from the field (As Built)
5.Step 5: Engineering Firm updates files as needed
(final accurate digital representation of what has
been constructed and spliced)
6.Step 6: Engineering Firm shares information with
installation partners (ready for installs)
*Splicing can be subcontracted out if the construction
partner chooses to do so.
Project 1
Dryden-
MIP-
North
Project 2
Dryden-
MIP-
South
Project 3
Caroline-
MIP-
West
Project 4
Caroline-
MIP-
East
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Deadline: December 31, 2026
Steps and Statuses:
1.Green - Started / On-Going
2.Yellow - Delayed
3.Red - Stopped
4.Blue - Not Yet Started
5.Black - Completed
Team Reports
Customer Base – Amanda, Town of Dryden Director of Finance and Personnel
Finance – Amanda,Town of Dryden Director of Finance and Personnel
Customer Service - Netegrity
Sales Operations – Gleamon
Installations – Clarity Connect, Netegrity, Gleamon
Inventory Management - Gleamon
Marketing – Exec. Dir. Dave Makar
Construction Permitting Updates – Vantage
Construction Implementation Updates – Vantage
Facilities and Grounds - Department of Public Works
Network Operations - Netegrity
HR, Admin, and Insurance – Dave Makar, Amanda Anderson
Legal and Policy – Dave Makar
Customer Base
As of October 1st, 2025 (billing date is 1st of month)
Speed
Number of
Subscriptions Revenue
Net Change
from Prior
month
Average Monthly
Revenue
Residential
Silver ($45)400 Mbps 359 16,155 +8 / - 1
Gold ($75)700 Mbps 56 4,200
Platinum ($90)1 Gbps 41 3,690
Total Residential Customers 456 24,045 7 52.73
Commerical
Standard ($75)500 Mbps 15 1,125
Preferred ($150)1 Gbps 4 600 1
Enhanced ($250)2 Gbps 1 250
Total Commerical Customers 20 1,975 1 98.75
Total of ALL Customers 476 26,020 54.66
Financial Reporting
as of September 30, 2025
Revenue and Expenses Balance Sheet
Sep-25 2025 to date 2021 to 2024 9/30/2025
Assets
Customer Subscriptions 25,745.00 189,238.00 62,500.45 Cash -
Grants and ARPA funds 624,614.00 1,278,067.17 Accounts Receivable 815.50
Other Revenue Sources 44,758.48 233,326.49 Grants Receivable - MIP 1,574,168.60
25,745.00 858,610.48 1,340,567.62 Total Assets 1,574,984.10
Construction 349,108.59 3,313,964.41 8,710,189.87 Liabilities
Installation 19,063.65 287,634.02 687,482.12 Accounts Payable (est)450,000.00
Operations 23,813.79 210,456.52 306,365.23 BAN 9,460,000.00
391,986.03 3,812,054.95 9,704,037.21 Loan from Town 1,541,872.01
Total Liabilities 11,451,872.01
Changes in August In July, invoice to Netgrity was missed, paid in August +4,670
In August paid annual FCC fees +1,139
In August had semi annual pole rental fees paid to NYSEG +3,896
Total increase +9,705
-
2,000.00
4,000.00
6,000.00
8,000.00
10,000.00
12,000.00
14,000.00
16,000.00
18,000.00
20,000.00
22,000.00
24,000.00
26,000.00
28,000.00
30,000.00
32,000.00
34,000.00
36,000.00
38,000.00
Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar April May June July Aug Sept
Dryden Fiber Revenue and Operating Exp. - 12 months
Commercial Residential Expenses
Customer Service
As of October 1st, 2025 (billing date is 1st of month)
Helpdesk Call Report October 2025
•Bandwidth Complaint (Speed Concerns)
•1
•Billing Related Call
•14
•Downed Drop (Damaged Service Line)
•0
•Email (Calls related to email difficulties)
•0
•No Connectivity
•6
•ONT / Power Cycle (Calls related to the
ONT where unplugging or rebooting
equipment was necessary)
•1
•Other / Unrelated (Calls looking for
unrelated departments or information)
•15
•Outage
•0
•Install Orders / Create Service
•15
•Router Issue
•5
•PC / Laptop Issue
•2
•Sporadic Connection
•0
•Streaming Related Issue
•2
•User Error / Education
•19
•Wireless
•4
Tickets: 84 Customers: 476 May: 74/402 June: 83/402 July: 90/402
Aug: 93/451
Ticket / Customer Ratio: 18%May: 18% June: 21% July: 21% Aug:
21%
Note:
Install Orders denote an
incoming install scheduling
request – not a completed install
One caller can generate
numerous tickets for a single
issue (i.e. calls in 5x for same
problem)
Support@drydenfiber.com
607-391-3500 (direct support
number)
User Error / Education:
User Error / Education:
Service inquiry (non-green)
Hardware Q's
Range Extenders
Installations
As of October 1, 2025 (billing date is 1st of month)
September 2025 Install Summary
o Number of installations completed this month: 8
o Number of installations scheduled (as of October 1st): 3
o Installation blockers / questions:
Construction pause leads to installation slow down (early adopters propel growth)
MDU work requires substantial information and engineering planning:
Getting enough fiber to the location (having enough fiber to reach 100% of tenants)
Determining how to get fiber from the property line to the units (mobile homes)
Determining how to get fiber from the building to the individual units (apartment buildings)
Sales Operations – MDUs – Mobile Home Parks -
Current
Task
Owner
MDU Name
And Zone (Green,
Yellow, Orange:
Could be)
Initial
Property
Owner
Outreach
Property
Owner
Paperwork
signed
Engineering
Design
Complete
Eng. Plan
approved by
property
owner
Construction
Scheduled
Construction
Completed
Residents
Notified
Unit
Count
Notes
Dryden
Fiber /
Mktg
Ithaca Estates Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 14 / 74 Needs additional
marketing (signage, door
hangers)
Dave Shady Grove
MHP (Pinckney)
Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 1 / 17 We have asked them to
sign the property owner
paperwork
Dave Mott Road Mobile
Home Park
Yes Yes DRAFTING No No No No 24 Reggie sent diagrams
and we need engineering
Brad /
VPS
Fall Creek Parke
(Etna)
Yes Yes DRAFTING No No No No 38 Karel Westerling's
property; poles needed
Brad /
VPS
Little Creek MHP
(North Road)
Yes Yes;
however new
signature
needed
No No No No No 100 Poles likely needed
Dave County Acres MHP
(McLean); Vista
Management (Fall
Creek Rd./Rt. 366)
No No No No No No No 102 Poles potentially
needed but there are no
poles on site at this
time
Dave Pleasant View
(Southworth Rd.)
No No No No No No No 50 Poles potentially
needed again no poles
on site atb this time
Dave Country Manor
Estates (Wood Rd.)
Yes No No No No No No 14 Karel Westerling's
property; Unknown need;
yellow zone
Dave Hanshaw Village
(Hanshaw Road)
Yes No; needs
engineering
No No No No No 149 This is now owned by the
same group as Little
Sales Operations – MDUs – Apartments -As of: October 1, 2025
Current
Task
Owner
MDU Name Initial
Property
Owner
Outreach
Property
Owner
Paperwork
signed
Engineering
Design
Complete
Eng. Plan
approved
by property
owner
Construction
Scheduled
Construction
Completed
Residents
Notified
Unit
Count
Notes
Brad / VPS 1062 Dryden Rd.
Apts. (Varna)
Yes Unknown Yes Meeting
Scheduled
No No No 21 VPS to make plan
Owner: Wawak
Brad / VPS 12-14-16 Lake
Street (Dryden
Village)
Yes Unknown Drafting No No No No 20 VPS to make plan
Brad / VPS Willow Brook
Apartments
Yes No No No No No No 50 VPS to make plan
Brad / VPS Dryden Village 4
Corners
( Some )No No No No No No 35+Splitting into 9 projects
Dave 194 Lower
Creek Road
(Apartments)
Yes No No No No No No 28 Tim Foote, lives at 190
Lower Creek Road
Not yet in green
Dave Creekwood
Apartments at
200 Lower
Creek Rd.
No No No No No No No 20-40 Tracy called and left
message;
Not yet in green
Dave Freeville
Cottages
Yes No No No No No No 12 Main Street Freeville;
owned by Bruno Schickel
In Green zone; Tracy
left message
Brad / VPS George Junior
Republic
Yes N/A (no
tenants)
Drafting No No No No 1 Requested service July
2024
Dave 1279 Dryden
Road (Wawak)
607.533.8888
Yes No No, TBD N/A No No No No 18 New Construction, need
to design to utility room
and to apartments
Dave 1 Etna Lane Yes No No No No No No 8+Tracy tracking down
Marketing: Inbound Requests; Website
As of October 1st, 2025 (billing date is 1st of month)
9/1/23 12/1/2
3
3/1/24 6/1/24 9/1/24 12/1/24 3/1/25 4/1/25 5/1/25 6/1/25 7/1/25 8/1/25 9/1/25 10/1/25
Total Under
Contract
22 28
(+6)
Sept-
Nov
32 (+4)
Dec-
Feb
44
(+12)
Mar-
May
91
(+47)
Jun-
Aug
180
(+89)
Sept.-
Nov.
336
(+156)
Dec.-
Feb.
364
(+30;-
2)
Mar.
383
(+24,-
3)
Apr.
402
(+22,-
3) May
432
(+30)
June
452
(+20)
July
472
(+20)
August
476
(+8)
August
Requests
(since 1/1/23)
174
(+11)
274
(+100)
363
(+89)
429
(+66)
638
(+209)
875
(+237)
1217
(+332)
1251
(+34)
1293
(+42)
1314
(+22)
1345
(+31)
1395
(+50)
1430
(+35)
1455
(+23)
Available 38 44**TBD 87 172
(+85)
292
(+120)
425
(+133)
453
(+28)
483
(+30)
500
(+17)
517
(+17)
535
(+18)
563
(+28)
574
(+11)
Not Available 136 226 TBD 342 466 579 792 798 810 815 828 860*550*567*
Serviceable
Live
76.3%72%TBD 51%
(44/87)
53%
(91/172)
62%
(180/292)
79%
336 /
425
80%
364/453
79%
383/483
80%
402/500
83.5%
432/517
84.4%
452/535
83.8%
472/563
83%
476/574
Website Visits 8/25-9/7 11/17-
11/30 2/1-2/29 5/1-5/31 8/1-31 9/1-30 Feb. '25 Mar. '25 April '25 May '25 June '25 July '25 Aug. '25 Sep. '25
Users 226 140 392 516 661 713 866 717 559 503 579 1.1K 494 538
New Users 211 115 346 471 567 619 760 597 458 418 498 1.1K 418 464
Sessions 324 194 617 739 1104 1110 1323 1250 1000 884 959 1,497 837 902
Engagement
(secs.)
0m 46s 42s 1m 30s 58 s 1m 13s 1m 10s 1m 14s 1m 29s 1m 19s 1m 30s 1m 10s 3m 27s 1m 31s 1m 01s
Marketing
As of August 1st, 2025
We want to hyper engage our customer base via an email blast, we now have 472+ customers
and potentially 1300 more (in the green zone)
Topics:
o Sign-up for Automatic Billing
Goal <1% with non-autopay
o “Refer a neighbor and both of you get $25 off your next bill.”
Goal: Tap into the 1300+ locations in the green zone
o Post a sign in your yard
Goal: Tap into the 1300+ locations in the green zone
o Remind Customers about 24/7/365 Customer Service
Goal: Make sure 100% of our customer base is happy and able to use the service as they desire
Goal: "Are you 100% happy with every aspect of your Dryden Fiber experience?"
We have the best customer service for internet service providers in Dryden
Please make use of our customer support team for all things Dryden Fiber related
Sent: Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Marketing
As of August 1st, 2025
Request 2: Refer a friend
o “Refer a neighbor and both of you get $25 off your next bill.”
If they sign-up and enter your name in the request service form; and get installed
by December 31: we'll give you a $25 credit off your next bill for each person who
signs up and mentions your name
New customers can only attribute referral to a single existing customer
New customer requests only (within the 9.5.25 service areas)
o Update to Request Service form during campaign (ending 12/31/25)
o Update first invoice process to give credits when a name in the "referral name"
matches an existing customer during setup between 9/15 and 12/31/25
Marketing
As of August 1st, 2025
Request 1:Sign-up for Automatic Billing: Goal <1% with non-autopay
o 5.7% (27 customers) do not have automatic billing setup (through our portal)
o Why we recommend autopay:
Operational Efficiency: less manual work with opening, logging, depositing checks; fewer errors;
reliability outside of USPS
Financially: predictable cash flow; reduced late payments (and collections); lower fees (bounced
checks)
Customer Benefits: Convenience (no need to remember due dates, stamps, trips to mailbox);peace
of mind (no accidental missing of payments);Digital records (easier to track online)
Strategic Value for Dryden Fiber: modern, digital first, scalability (5,000 customer goal), free staff time
“Sign up for autopay and be entered into a drawing for a free month of service.”
New and existing customers are included
Setup autopay by October 20th
Goal: Increase automatic billing to 99%+
Engineering Updates
Electric Make Ready Update
Construction Update
Wage discussion w/ State
Syracuse looking to start UG ASAP
Design Update
Light Audit -> Clarity Connect
Caroline Hut
MDU Project Update
Map Update
HR, Admin, and Insurance
October 2025
Insurance
Insurance policy has been ordered! The coverage will include coverage for property, inventory, cyber security for
specific ISP risks, umbrella, and flood insurance. Many of thises coverages are required for the MIP grant
agreement.
Human Resources
Amanda and Dave are starting to work on a new job description for an account manager position. The Account
Manager will be the primary relationship builder between Dryden Fiber and our residential, business, and
institutional customers. This role combines customer engagement, sales, and community outreach to drive
adoption of our services, strengthen customer satisfaction, and ensure Dryden Fiber continues to deliver
measurable value to the Town of Dryden and surrounding communities.
Discussion Topics
October 2025
Rental Unit Enforcement, When Property Owner (Landlord) provides Broadband to Tenants with rent
We've had a couple cases in the last month where a landlord wanted to use one single connection
(residential, $45/month tier) to provide service to multiple apartments from one connection
ONU and Plume in 1 apartment;Second Plume in the other apartment
1 bill to the property owner;Tenants sharing a single WiFi network (name, password)
Potential Issues Identified
Bandwidth and Performance (streaming, gaming, remote work)
Security and Privacy: Bad actors on the same network, hacking,blame goes to landlord
Responsibility: Suspicious online activity
Legal: Copyright infringement, harassment,illegal activity: account holder (landlord) could be
subpoenaed
Control and Management: Resetting routers, dealing with complaints about speed
Discussion Topics
October 2025
Map Updates
We may have an updated map for review for the website
Ciena, Calix, and AdTran
Ciena is moving from FTTH to AI
Calix has a proposal
Stronger single unit WiFi devices
Robust cloud services
Focus on FTTH improvements
Widely Accepted
AdTran – We have hardware pricing, waiting on services pricing
Legal Update – October 2025
o Construction
Contract Bid Document for Major Projects pieces (from Vantage) -70 page document – Approved for
use
Master Service Agreement (MSA) with an electrical make ready (EMR) provider – Approved by Town
Board
This will make it possible to use them for any and all future EMR bids they win
Auditors for MIP Project financials – Approved by Town Board (Aug. '25)
Caroline Hut Construction Bid – Bid awarded, approved by town board (Sept. 11, '25)
Audit of Network Bid Process and Contract – Approved by Town Board (Sep. '25)
Empire Access Overlash Agreement (6 miles of fiber) – Ready for Empire Access
Empire Access Reciprocal Agreement (EMR moves) – Exec. Dir. Reviewing
Operations
DigSafe Monitoring Contract and TBD on bid requirements – with Vendor
Point Broadband IRU (Indefeasible Rights of Use) - 10 year lease – Approved by Town Board (Aug. '25)
Dryden – Caroline IMA (Intermunicipal Agreement) for project – Exec. Dir. Drafting Edits
Networking Maintenance and Repair Agreement and Bid Process – with Broadband Attorney
Easement for Hillside Drive connecting Ringwood to Phantom Drive – with Property Owner
APPENDIX A
Meeting Schedule
Dryden Fiber Public Broadband Committee – Public reporting on project
o 1st and 3rd Friday morning, 10:30am-11:30am (except July and August, 2nd and 4th
Friday morning)
Dryden Fiber Operations Team Meeting – Construction and Install Collaboration
o Every other Wednesday, 10am-11:15am
Dryden Fiber MIP Status Call – Meet with Connect All Office to stay on track
o Every Tuesday, 1pm-1:45pm
Dryden Fiber MIP Steering Committee – Implementation of the Grant
o Monthly (Town of Dryden, Town of Caroline)
Dryden Fiber Policy Committee – Advise and Recommend on Policy
o Monthly
Financial Reporting
Review of Construction Costs from beginning of project
Subcontractors (Syr. Util., Lghtspd, etc.), 50%Equipment Purchases, 28%
Professional Fees (Leg.,
Eng., etc.), 13%
Permit and Pole
Applications, 5%
Loan
interest,
2%
Misc
Constru
Construction Costs 1/1/21 to 12/31/24
Subcontractors (Syr. Util., Lghtspd, etc.)
Equipment Purchases
Professional Fees (Leg., Eng., etc.)
Permit and Pole Applications
Loan interest
Misc Construction Exp
Permitting Steps
1.Final Design Edits = Survey has occurred and Prelim in is design edits
2.Prelim Sent = Sent to Engineering Firm (VPS) to review/approve and then to NYSEG/Frontier to review
3.Final NYSEG Design Sent = NYSEG reviewing final design before sending the Final Make Ready Package
4.Telco Recon = Telco Review prelim design
5.Frontier Billing Outstanding = Frontier awaiting payment to proceed
6.RFB = Request for Bid sent to contractors
7.MR Construction = Make Ready Contruction - Moves are in progress
Other Statuses (from slide 8):
Attached – definition...
Elec make-ready in process – definition...
Telco make-ready in process – definition...
Final ELEC Design Input – definition...
Avant Grid is NYSEG
Permitting Map Colors
1.Green = Conditional license to attach
2.Yellow = non-billable quote approved, quotes back from electrician sub-
contractors (i.e. HRS, Davella), when NYSEG gives ok, this moves to Green
3.Red = Design submitted to joint pole owner
4.Orange = make ready work package approved, heading to bid
5.Pink = out for make ready construction
6.Purple = design input (LaBella)
Request for Proposals
Feasibility Study for 100-acre Undeveloped Parcel on Route 13
October 8, 2025
1. Purpose
The Town of Dryden seeks to enter into an agreement with a qualified consultant to
provide a feasibility study for an approximate 100-acre undeveloped parcel on Route 13
(on the north side of the highway), between the NYSEG building and the Rt. 366 turnoff
towards Etna (Tax Map Parcel #44.-1-9).
This feasibility study, although intended for this one particular parcel, should have
elements that are transferable to other appropriate sites within the Town should this
specific parcel become unavailable.
Services shall include, but not be limited to:
A) Researching, consulting on best practices, document drafting, mapping, and creating a
professional report that includes verifiable references of valid and reliable sources,
supporting graphics, and statistical analysis. The content of this report shall include:
• Describing the features of the land and evaluating conditions for construction.
• Recommending the highest and best uses of the 100 acres.
• Establishing approximately how many homes at that location would be successful
in this housing market: what types of units and at what price points. [We are
seeking to create a walkable community with diverse housing options within it
(i.e., rentals as well as for-sale).]
• Determining what commercial uses and services would be successful at that site
(including childcare) and whether a TCAT park-and-ride might be possible.
• Locating external funding sources available to support this project.
• Using the existing infrastructure study that estimated costs to bring water and
sewer to the edge of the parcel, estimating how much more it would cost to
provide service within the parcel.
•
The goal and intent of this project is to create a realistic, realizable plan to use this
identified area to enhance opportunities, especially for affordable housing, reflecting the
community's vision for its future growth and development and to preserve and enhance
the quality of life in the Town of Dryden as put forth in the Comprehensive Plan.
2. Introduction, Background and Legislative Basis
Town of Dryden Feasibility Study for Identified Route 13 Development Area
RFP
Page 2
The Town of Dryden prepared its first "General Plan" in 1968. The 25-year plan set forth
a vision for a "pleasant and efficient physical environment" based on guiding principles
to "protect that which is worth protecting, conserve that which is worth conserving, and
improve that which needs improving". The 1968 Plan recognized that agriculture is
Dryden's principal land use and that the Town should seek to preserve its rural character.
The Plan acknowledged the need to plan for anticipated growth, particularly in the
Rt366/13 corridor, and to create conservation and agriculture zones to protect those
sensitive areas.
There have been updates to the Comprehensive Plan since that first 1968 plan.
Dryden2045 is the most recent update to the Town of Dryden’s Comprehensive plan,
finished in 2022. As requested by residents, it includes topics missing from the
(preceding) 2005 Plan, such as the town’s role in responding to climate change, the ever-
increasing cost and lack of diversity of housing, and the need to plan for and encourage
residential and commercial development.
Dryden2045 expands the concept of development nodes to “nodal corridors.” These
corridors extend beyond the areas proximate to the hamlets/villages. The intent is to
provide for diverse development opportunities, residential development in particular, in
part to attract people who currently live outside the town and commute through the town
to work and other venues.
New York Town Law §272-a which provides the legislative authority for towns to adopt
and periodically update comprehensive plans, states that among the most important
powers and duties granted to a town government is the authority and responsibility to
undertake town comprehensive planning and to regulate land use for the purpose of
protecting the public health, safety and general welfare of its citizens.
3. Scope of Work
This RFP seeks a proposal to provide a feasibility study for this 100-acre undeveloped
parcel on Route 13 to be of maximum benefit for the people and environment of the
Town of Dryden.
4. Necessary Topics and Guiding Principles
The feasibility study will focus on the identified location, keeping the social,
environmental, and economic context as well as likely future growth patterns in mind.
A) In addition to Dryden2045, consultant shall familiarize themselves with the Town of
Dryden:
• 2005 Comprehensive Plan, including the Varna Community Development Plan;
Town of Dryden Feasibility Study for Identified Route 13 Development Area
RFP
Page 3
• 2008 Route 13/366 Corridor Management Plan and the current update;
• 2015 Tompkins County Comprehensive Plan which includes Dryden;
• 2017 Natural Resources Conservation Plan;
• 2017 Town of Dryden Water and Sewer District Consolidation Study;
• 2017 Tompkins County Housing Strategy.
• Most Current Tompkins County Housing Snapshot;
and provide justification for recommendations with references from these documents.
B) Topics to be considered in the feasibility study shall be:
• Affordable Housing
• Transportation
• Walkable Communities
• Economic Development
• Climate Change and Energy
• Environmental Responsibility
C) Guiding principles to be adhered to shall be:
• Protect and enhance the livability of residential areas by ensuring diverse and
affordable housing options for all residents and promoting investment in existing
housing
• Promote development in a manner that enhances the existing character and
livability of the Town of Dryden and its neighborhoods by channeling new
development into nodal areas around existing villages, hamlets, and available
infrastructure
• Support future growth and development through adequate and efficient public
infrastructure, facilities, and services
5. Project Structure
The Dryden Town Affordable and Workforce Housing Committee, along with the Town
Director of Planning, will serve as the steering committee and the "customer" for the
work. The Town Director of Planning will serve as point person for the project for
contractual matters such as invoice approval and payment for services. The Affordable
and Workforce Housing Committee meets virtually on the first Tuesday of the month at
2:00 pm, and the consultant will be expected to attend these meetings when project-
related items are on the agenda.
Town of Dryden Feasibility Study for Identified Route 13 Development Area
RFP
Page 4
6. Project Schedule
Proposal Submission Deadline
7. Proposal Requirements
Please include the following with your proposal:
• A narrative indicating your understanding of the work and an outline of how you
plan to conduct and complete the work. Describe your approach to data
collection, e.g., traffic volumes. Describe if and how you plan to use 2020 census
data.
• A schedule broken down into project phases and including on-site meetings.
• A cost proposal broken down into project phases and including fee and
reimbursables. Provide a project cash flow projection.
• Billing rates of people who will work on the project.
• Roles and resumes of people who will work on the project including any
subcontractors. Identify the proposed project manager.
• Examples of similar projects/work scope elements done by the people proposed
for this project.
• Exclusions, if any, to this Request for Proposal.
• Three references for similar work by your team proposed for Dryden’s project.
• Demonstration that your company has at least five years’ experience delivering
similar studies.
8. Proposal Preparation Costs
The Town shall not be liable for any costs associated with the preparation, transmittal or
presentation of any response or materials submitted in response to the RFP.
9. Additional Terms and Conditions
Town of Dryden Feasibility Study for Identified Route 13 Development Area
RFP
Page 5
• All documents to be prepared and furnished to the Town in the preparation of the
study and the study itself shall become the property of the Town.
• Consultant shall carry a minimum of $1 million general and automotive liability
insurance for the duration of the agreement.
10 Award of Work
Contract award will be based on previously demonstrated qualifications of the team
proposed for the work, completeness of the proposal, the proposed schedule and work
plan, and the proposed fee.
Following the receipt of Proposals, the Town reserves the right to request clarifications
and other comments of specific Proposers regarding matters covered in the Proposals
prior to identifying selected Proposers for negotiations. Proposers are advised that the
requirements of this Proposal are subject to further refinements and clarifications by the
Town until an agreement between the Town and the successful Proposer is executed.
The Town intends following receipt evaluation, clarification, and strengthening of
Proposals, to enter promptly into discussions to finalize an Agreement providing those
services with the selected Proposer whose Proposal, in the judgment of the Town, is most
advantageous to the Town. The Town may, in its sole discretion, discontinue such
negotiations at any time and begin negotiations with an alternate Proposer or Proposers
responding hereto. The Town specifically reserves the right to reject any or all Proposals
submitted, for any reason, in its sole discretion, or to reissue an RFP in identical or
altered form, or not to issue further RFPs.
11. Questions and Proposal Submission
• Submit any questions in writing to the Director of Planning at the address below
at least two weeks prior to the deadline set by the Planning Board for the receipt
of proposals. Please do not submit email or verbal questions and do not approach
members of Town boards or the Affordable and Workforce Housing Committee.
An addendum to this RFP, if required, containing responses to questions will be
published on the Town’s website at: https://dryden.ny.us a minimum of one
week prior to the deadline set for submission of proposals.
• Submit proposals to the following address. Submit 3 paper copies and a digital
copy (pdf) of the proposal to:
Ray Burger
Director of Planning
Town of Dryden
93 East Main Street
Dryden, NY 13045