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HomeMy WebLinkAbout9_30_2020 Transcript Special Meeting09302020SpecialMeeting.mp3 Supervisor Beth McGee [00:00:04] And open the special meeting. I will call the meeting to order. Are there any changes or additions by Board Members to the Agenda. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:00:30] All right, so we'll begin with privilege of the floor. We'll use the same process as before anyone who wishes to speak for privilege of the floor will have three minutes to speak and address your comments to the full board. And please use the raise your hand feature. So your name will go to the top of the list and I'll be able to find you easily and ask you to unmute if you cannot find that feature, you've called in on a telephone you can use *9 to toggle on and off the raise your hand feature. And if no one raises their hand, I will unmute everyone are asked to unmute everyone and you can let yourself be on. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:01:22] And I've asked everyone to unmute. Is there anyone who would like to speak for privilege of the floor? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:01:53] Diane. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:01:56] Diane Armini. Is that you? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:02:03] Diane, did you mean to raise your hand? Yes, I did. OK, great. Go ahead. Diane Aramini [00:02:08] OK, this is Diane, our meeting. Again, I'm asking the Board the Town Clerks position. Is it full time or is it part time? Other other Town Clerks previous years. It was always 20 to 22 hours a week. My question is, what has changed? And I don't know if you can answer me this tonight, but I want to leave you with that. Thank you. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:02:35] Thanks Diane. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:02:42] Does the Board mind if I have Ellen articulate what is different? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:02:48] From January 1st of this year, from last year. Is the board, does the board object? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:02:57] No Councilpeson Stephanie Redmond [00:03:03] Okay, with me. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:03:05] Go ahead, Ellen. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:03:06] OK. So first, I'm just going to address the assertion that it was 22 hours a week or 25 hours a week or 20 hours a week. In 2016, the Living Wage Center did record a visit from the Town Clerk stating that she did not make a Living Wage. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:03:23] In 2016, she was funded at 2016 Living Wage level without health insurance at 22 hours a week. So I'm asking you why such a dedicated Clerk would appeal to the Workers Rights Center if she felt she was working 23 hours a week or 24? She must have felt that she was working considerably more than 22 to appeal to a local County organization. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:03:49] So that's first of all. So it was never actually that amount. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:03:53] However, when my predecessor took office, she was under Roy Barriere. He was known for once a month, 1 hour meetings. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:04:03] We meet more than any other Town Board in Tompkins County and we meet longer than any other Town Board in Tompkins County. So we met 20 times before the first half of the year this year. So we did have a pandemic. And some of that is just totally understandable. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:04:19] However, if I wanted to as the Clerk increase my retirement rate, I could claim that I work 20 hours a week for $20,000 a year. Therefore, my effective annual average salary for the purpose of the retirement system would be $40,000. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:04:37] So it would be in my interest to claim that. But I'm not interested in claiming that. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:04:42] So what has changed additionally is you cannot budget in an organization for someone to have been in the position for 10 years. My predecessor took office and had a deputy stay on for a year. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:04:54] And I am working really hard to make sure that the next person in office has that same privilege. That there will be a trained deputy that will be able to do everything that the Town Clerk does. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:05:06] It was never sustainable to have a deputy not be able to work Williamson, which is our main program. At any moment I could get sick, hit by a bus, anything like that. And we would need a Deputy to be trained to do every single thing that the Clerk can do for continuity. In any case. There's been more meetings. The meetings are longer, but also it's just . . . Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:05:29] It doesn't matter what happens in Enfield. It matters what happens: Danby full time, Caroline full time, every other New York State Town that has approximately 3500 residents, Full Time. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:05:41] So if Enfield is the exception, the onus is on Enfield to explain why their Clerk is part time. Not the onus on the Clerk to add an additional duty to her already packed schedule of trying to convince a Town that her position is full time. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:05:59] And I would just like to say that the Supervisor did call the Workers' Rights Center and say that the Town Supervisor and the Town Clerk are not earning a Living Wage. But that would mean that I'm definitely working more than 30 hours a week if you do the math. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:06:14] So am I working 32? Am I working 35? I would just welcome anyone to shadow me in my office and see how many tasks I am doing and how well I am doing them. Thank you. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:06:27] Thank you, Ellen. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:06:38] Okay. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:06:44] All right. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:06:44] So no one else is wanting to speak with close privilege of the floor. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:07:00] So the attorney policy is on the agenda. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:07:04] I was asked to move that. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:07:08] So I will move the attorney policy that I had provided. Councilperson Stephnaie Redmond [00:07:15] l'll second that. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:07:19] That attorney, the town of Enfield policy regarding authorization to contact Town Attorney, whereas the town of Enfield contracts with an attorney for the purposes of counsel to the Town regarding legal matters. And whereas communication with and payment for services of a Town attorney are at the discretion of the Enfield Town board. And whereas the Town supervisor tends to legal concerns for the Town as a representative for the Town board. Therefore, be it resolved. The Town supervisor is authorized to communicate with the Town attorney within the bounds of the amount budgeted as is necessary to complete the tasks relating to Town legal matters and resolve. The Town board may from time to time authorize another Town board member to communicate directly with the Town attorney upon agreement of the board on specific issues at hand and resolved. All other parties, elected or appointed, may reach out to the Association of Towns contingent upon continued membership thereof or legal counsel, or may appeal to the Town Board for legal consultation on specific issues as necessary. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:08:21] Is there discussion? Counilperson Robert Lynch [00:08:24] I moved to a man to substitute my proposed draft revised policy regarding attorney contact. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:08:35] Is there a second? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:08:47] With no second, is there discussion on the policy moved? Councilperson Robert Lynch [00:08:58] I would choose to discuss it. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:09:01] Go ahead. Councilperson Robert Lynch [00:09:02] I believe it discriminates. It establishes that some elected officials are more privileged than others when it comes to accessing the attorney. Last night was last month. We discussed this previously and I had submitted a proposal which was not to welcome by the board. We took no action on it. But I got the impression that we wanted a better compromise that limited the access by the Town Clerk and the Town Highway superintendent to attorneys services as well as members of the Town board. I recast my proposed policy statement, which was very thoroug h, much more thoroughly than what was what is before tonight. Councilperson Robert Lynch [00:09:50] And I believe it struck a good balance. This does not strike a good balance. This puts the Town supervisor in a special position where she has access to attorneys where as the Town clerk and the Town Highway superintendent do not. And I think it's unfair and I cannot support this resolution tonight. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:10:14] Mimi? One second. Go ahead Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:10:27] To my knowledge, this has been the practice since I've been coming to town board meetings. It has always, the contact with the with the Town attorney has always come through the Supervisor because it's a very tight budget. It always has been. You know, we have very little funds associated with the Attorney. And if we're going to keep them under wraps, we need to control them very carefully. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:10:53] The Organization of Towns and New York State Attorney General's office is extremely open, easy to deal with, responsive, knowledgeable and all of us through our town's membership and the Association of Towns has access to that. So I have no problem with this. It is the only way to keep the budget intact and not spend a huge amount on legal fees, because every minute that you call the Attorney, he charges for you. And then he charges for to write it all up. After you've spoken to him? And then he charges to then redirect that to the Town Supervisor. So there is a lot of redundancy there and it doesn't need to happen. So I'm totally in favor of this resolution. Councilperson Virginia Bryant [00:11:43] I'm totally in the same knowledge area as Mimi and totally in agreement with what she just said. Councilperson Robert Lynch [00:11:52] The problem is, is the attorney for, let's say, the Association of Towns or the state attorney general's office has no obligation to respond to you on a totally unrelated matter. I contacted I emailed the Association of Towns attorney a couple of months ago to ask a legal question. I never received a reply. And so if I contacted Guy Krogh, which I did not, I would expect it as a Town Councilperson I would get a reply. There is a degree in the ability to get sound legal advice from somebody who we are paying rather than somebody we are saying pretty please help us out. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:12:37] And so in that instance, you would come to the Town board and you would say, I have not been satisfied with a response on this and we should consider reaching out to Guy Krogh in order to do that and asking the board for that. Councilperson Robert Lynch [00:12:53] But what if we have a semi aviserial relationship between the Town board's majority and certain people like the Highway superintendent Town board's majority is going to tell the Highway superintendent no. Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [00:13:05] I don't believe that's true. First of all, my experience with Association of Towns has not been that they've alwa ys been extremely responsive and when they haven't been able to answer our questions thoroughly, I've never found this Town board unwilling to approached Guy Krogh to clarify questions. So I think that if those routes were taken, if the Highway superintend ent or the Town Clerk were to go through AOT and we're not able to get the answers that they were looking for, we're not able to have their questions answered that this board has always been willing to say, OK, now we can go ahead and contact Guy Krogh but I do think it's only fiscally responsible for us to move forward with this sort of policy that limits and expenditure or the possible overexpenditure,. Councilperson Virginia Bryant [00:13:47] Because every phone call an independent would make from the board or from any administration directly to Guy Krogh without talking to the board. He starts marking on his chargesheet. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:14:04] Association of Towns will also very often tell you this is what the law says. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:14:12] However, for your specific situation, you should reach out to your Town attorney. They say that very, very often this year. I was actually chastised by you, Bob, for having legal fees when the Highway superintendent asserted that he had authority that he did not. And I ask the Town attorney to lay it out very clearly who had authority to do what by law. And you chastised me for that. And so I was very responsive to that situation. I reached out to the Town attorney to get specific clarification on those specific issues. And you were upset that the Town supervisor had spent that money in order to get clarification for the board. So the board would understand during CoVid what their obligations were to the residents. Councilperson Robert Lynch [00:15:07] I only objected because I thought it was seeking legal help in a political battle that we should not have been involved in to start with. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:15:16] OK. So information that informs the board on how to do their job to represent the people that elected them is not political. It's what they elected you to do. Councilperson Robert Lynch [00:15:29] The Highway superintendent, should be accorded the same opportunity to seek that advice without having to come to the board and say.... Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:15:41] He could probably spend his own money on his contractual line. Sure. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:15:46] So that he can if he wants to use his contractual line to do that, but I found it very helpful to have the attorney to say to me if you continue to do this action that you are doing you could be found guilty of misusing public funds. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:16:06] That was very helpful. It made my decision very clear, black and white, of what I had to do. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:16:13] Under those circumstances could have come to the Town board and asked their consent to have the supervisor contact the attorney on that issue. And my policy that I proposed would have allowed that. Councilperson Virginia Bryant [00:16:34] I ready to call us to a vote. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:16:38] Are you calling the question? Councilperson Virgina Bryant [00:16:40] Yes. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:16:52] OK, well, in order for us to do that, we will need. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:16:58] Four out of five votes. It's a two thirds majority. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:17:03] Ellen, would you please Call the vote? Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:17:05] So to clarify, we are calling the vote on the Attorney Contact Policy, which would be policy, I think #2 or #3? Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:17:15] We passed the Web policy anyway. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:17:17] OK. And also the electronic policy? Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:17:21] So that would be policy #3 2020. Calling the Vote on this Policy as submitted. Right? No amendments? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:17:27] Right. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:17:30] Councilperson Bryant? Councilperson Virgina Bryant [00:17:31] Aye Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:17:33] Councilperson Lynch? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:17:34] No Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:17:35] Councilperson Mahaffey? Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:17:37] Aye Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:17:39] Councilperson Redmond? Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [00:17:40] Aye Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:17:40] Supervisor McGee? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:17:43] Aye Councilperson Robert Lynch [00:17:54] My time drafting alternate policy was time well spent. It may be employed someday in the future. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:18:02] Perhaps. Who seconded that motion? Councilperson Virginia Bryant [00:18:06] I did, I think, the originial motion? Yes. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:18:17] I think Stephanie did. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:18:22] The motion was seconded by Councilperson Redmond, introduced by Councilperson McGee. Councilperson Virgina Bryant [00:18:27] Thank you,. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:18:28] Supervisor McGee. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:18:30] Thank you. My apologies. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:18:34] OK, on to the budget. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:18:39] So there are a couple of technical changes that after speaking with the bookkeeper, Brian Mclroy a better way to place the unappropriated revenue. Going to move that under inter fund transfer on the expenditure side of the highway. [00:19:07] It will be listed as to build D.A. fund balance per fund balance policy. The line number would be DA. 9950.2. So there would be a decrease in the unappropriated revenue line in the budget to zero. [00:19:24] We need to reflect that budget line is going to zero and then adding the other budget, adding the same purpose under this other budget line with a zero from last year to thirty thousand this year. I would like to note that we did this last year in order to build the highway fund balance, to bring it to a place where it meets our fund balanced policy, which is the responsible amount of fund balance in order to be prepared for emergencies or expenditures that are out of our control. And also to meet CHIPS obligations so we aren't kiting checks for CHIPS. And so. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:20:12] At this point, since the Highway Superintendent went ahead with spending the CHIPS funds without board the board appropriating that we will now be down that money if the state does not come through with that. With $30,000 that they've anticipated we will not get. So you've set us back a year. And the plan was to do this for about three years, to build the fund balance, so there's enough for 10 percent of expenditures, plus one hundred percent of CHIPS expenditures. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:20:51] That is the fund balance policy that the Town Board adopted last year, which is really a minimum fund balance policy and requested, suggested, required by the Office of State Comptroller. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:21:14] There is one other issue. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:21:19] The Confidential Secretary line will be reduced to zero. I mentioned before that Alice has resigned this year, but she and I had talked previously about having the Deputy Town Supervisor absorb those duties. That position was in place or put in place in order to serve as a check and balance for the Bookkeeper and Town Supervisor. And that now that the Deputy Town Supervisor position is more established as one that takes on many of these responsibilities or some of these responsibilities that provide there's no reason that can't absorb that. [00:21:57] And Alice agreed that that would be a good, good use of that. So I would be reducing that by $2500. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:22:05] There is another line that needs to be added, and that is for the Paychex payroll fees. And that is $1,400.00. That line will be a 1316.44. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:22:24] That's $1400.00, actually. Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [00:22:35] Can I make a proposal? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:22:36] Please Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [00:22:39] That leaves us with about $1,100 extra from the Confidential Secretary . I'd like to propose that we use that thousand dollars as a seed money to provide access to library services to the public through a pickup a t the school library. The program will be run through the Tompkins County Public Library. We've been in contact with them and they are willing to provide this service if we provide that level of seed money. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:23:06] Um, its just that seed money would be used to purchase books for the Community Llibrary. [00:23:16] So it's basically community support, as we do for ECC or as being proposed for the Grange or for the Seniors. This would provide a pickup point for books ordered through Tompkins County Public Library to work, potentially, with the Enfield Elementary School Library. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:23:42] Can't that be done through the school system? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:23:47] Yes, that I mean, that's what is being proposed. I actually suggested that the school system get 68 percent of our solar pilot agreements. This is not for that. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:23:57] Ellen this is a discussion of the board. Thank you. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:23:59] So this is not to pay for that service. It's to provide money for books for this community library service. Councilperson Robert Lynch [00:24:18] In other words, we're going to be buying books with this money? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:24:23] Yes. A collection of books, potentially like encyclopedic books or a series of like DK books or something like that for children that would be available for checkout to a community. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:24:36] But the logistics of doing it through the school is not something we have to fund. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:24:42] No. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:24:42] I would think the school should fund that. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:24:45] Right. But we're talking about that's just these men are separate from the school district's library. These are Tompkins County Public Library books. This is a public library service. It's not through the school district. They are just providing a pickup point at their library. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:25:04] Potentially? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:25:04] Potentially. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:25:06] Is anybody ask the ECC's opinion on this? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:25:10] Actually, I suggested in our discussions about this with the Public Library Director yesterday that it would be great if next year when we renegotiate the contract, which is due next year with ECC. If they do have a new building to potentially look at that as a way that Enfield could fund that service or give them additional funding in that contract in order to make a library space available. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:25:40] But this is this year. That would be next year. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:25:44] So this is for purchasing books and not just helping out the school district which is flush with money? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:25:51] This would be this is this line is specifically an expenditure line for the purpose of purchasing books for a community library. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:26:04] So, Stephanie, are you making a motion to include that expenditure line? Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [00:26:11] Yes,. Councilperson Virgina Bryant [00:26:13] I would. Second that. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:26:18] And the the other lines that I have mentioned, we don't need a motion on, we've already agreed as a board that we are paying for Paychex, that line just needs to be added to the budget. And the other is just moving the line from one space to another on the expenditure side of the highway budg et. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:26:40] See? So Virginia Seconded that? Councilperson Virgina Bryant [00:26:44] Yes. [00:26:46] OK. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:26:48] Is there any further discussion on that specific item? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:26:53] It's a minor item. Buying books. I have no problem with it. Councilperson Virginia Bryant [00:26:57] Know, I've been involved in school, library foundations and so forth since I was probably 15. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:27:07] I think that the hope Annette Birdsall has been wanting to bring books to Enfield for the community for a long time. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:27:15] We talked prior to CoVid about a mobile library coming here, and we had planned after CoVid to come together and discuss that. However, apparently the funding for that has not has not materialized or has disappeared due to CoVid in the county budget or something thereof. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:27:35] So this looked like a way that could potentially work to bring a drop off. I mean, this it actually works fantastically. I order books through TCPL all all the time and I go to TBurg all the time and pick them up, you know, if they're not digital. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:27:53] So it's it would be fantastic for this community to have just a space right in Enfield where people can do the same thing. Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [00:28:01] I think it's a much needed service. We were one of the few municipalities that have zero. Community services like this. We have zero library services for the community. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:28:14] OK. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:28:17] If there's no further discussion, Ellen, would you please call the vote? Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:28:21] I do feel compelled as a community member to mention two things. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:28:27] This is and we can ask the Deputy Town Dlerk to Call the vote. This is a discussion for the Town board. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:28:36] Okay, inviting the community into the school in a Pandemic is dangerous. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:28:37] This is something that will be arranged with the school district. It isn't going to be arranged without their advice and consent. Please Call the vote. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:28:46] Councilperson Bryant. Councilperson Virgina Bryant [00:28:52] Pardon? Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:28:52] How do you vote? Councilperson Virgina Bryant [00:28:52] Aye Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:28:52] Councilperson Lynch. How do you vote? Councilperon Robert Lynch [00:28:56] Aye Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:28:57] Councilperson Mehaffey. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:29:00] Aye Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:29:02] Councilperson Redmond. Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [00:29:03] Aye Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:29:04] Supervisor McGee. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:29:05] Aye Supervisor Beth McGee [00:29:09] Thank you. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:29:23] OK. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:29:26] Are there other comments that board members want to make on the budget? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:29:32] Yes, I have an amendment to offer to the budget. One of several tonight I'll start with this and it involves several lines. And I have already alerted Clerk Woods to what my proposal here is. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:29:48] This is proposed modification of budget number one, and it is for the purpose to restore five person staffing to the Enfield highway department and to grant all highway department employees, aside from the Highway superintendent raises of compensation of two percent. And here are the line item changes. Code D. A. 5110.1. Personnel services an increase of forty one thousand two hundred forty dollars and zero cents to a revised amount of one hundred sixty five thousand two hundred forty dollars and zero cents. D.A. 5110.14 Overtime, an increase of seventy dollars to a revised amount of three thousand four hundred seventy dollars and zero cents. Let's that line. D. A. 5110.14. Overtime. Max. D. A. f5110.12 Clothing allowance, an increase of 450 dollars to a revised amount of two thousand two hundred fifty dollars and zero cents. D A. 9010.8 state retirement. An increase of nine thousand six hundred twenty five dollars and zero cents for a revised amount of forty four thousand six hundred twenty five dollars and zero cents. D. A. 9020.8 Medicare, an increase of seven hundred dollars to a revised amount of three thousand nine hundred dollars and zero cents. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:31:52] Line item D. A. 9030.8. Social Security, an increase of two thousand seven hundred twenty five dollars and zero cents for a revised amount of sixteen thousand three hundred twenty five dollars and zero since, I should say, six hundred two hundred twenty sixteen thousand two hundred twenty five dollars and zero cents. D.A. 9040.8 workers comp an increase of seven thousand five hundred dollars and zero cents to a revised amount of thirty four thousand eight hundred dollars and zero cents. D. A. 9050.8 Unemployment insurance, an increase of one thousand six hundred fifty dollars and zero cents for a revised amount of seven thousand five hundred fifty dollars and zero cents. D. A. 9060.81 Medical insurance. An increase of fifteen thousand seven hundred dollars and zero cents to a revised amount of seventy eight thousand four hundred dollars and zero cents. And finally, line item D. A. 9080.8 paid family leave. An increase of three hundred twenty five dollars and zero cents to a revised amount of one thousand six hundred twenty five dollars and zero cents total increase of seventy nine thousand nine hundred eighty five dollars and zero cents. And thus the highway total to be revised, to be raised, I should say, in property taxes rises by that amount to $1,000,035,721.00... and I so move. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:34:26] Is there no Second? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:34:40] I have another budget, my budget modification is that when failed for lack of a second. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:34:46] It is as follows. Call it proposed modification number 1A. Its purpose is to grant all continuing highway department employees. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:34:57] Aside from the highway superintendent raises in compensation of two percent and to adjust the increased expected highway department employee overtime. The proposed changes line item DA 5110.1 personnel services increase two thousand four hundred eighty dollars to a revised amount of one hundred twenty six thousand four hundred eighty dollars. Then D. A. 5110.1 for overtime. An increase of one thousand seven hundred dollars and zero cents to a revised amount of five thousand one hundred dollars and zero cents. Line item D. A. 9010.8 state retirement. An increase of seven hundred dollars to a revised amount of thirty five thousand seven hundred dollars. Line item D. A. 9020.8 Medicare. An increase of one hundred dollars to a revised amount of three thousand three hundred dollars and zero cents. Line item D.A. 9030.8 social Security, an increase of three hundred dollars to a revised amount of thirteen thousand eight hundred dollars and zero cents. Line item D. A. 9040.8 workers comp, an increase of five hundred dollars to a revised amount of twenty seven thousand eight hundred dollars and zero cents. And finally, line item D.A.9050.8 Unemployment insurance, an increase of one hundred dollars and zero cents to a revised figure of six thousand dollars. Total charges. Changes, I should say, to budget and appropriations. An increase of five thousand eight hundred eighty dollars and zero cents. Highway total to be raised in property taxes rises by that same amount five thousand eight hundred eighty dollars to a revised total of $951,616.00 and I so move. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:37:52] There is no Second. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:37:53] Any further discussion on the budget? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:37:56] Yes, I do have this proposed modification, proposed modification. Number 2, the purpose of the modification to limit the 2021 increase in the Town supervisors salary. Line item changes. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:38:15] Hold a one two two zero point one one. Personnel services, the twenty twenty one preliminary budget shows a figure of twenty four thousand dollars. I propose to decrease it by four thousand dollars to a revised amount of twenty thousand dollars and zero cents. That is what is currently authorized and it is legal to do so. I cannot reduce it further, but I can reduce it to the number that the Town supervisor is paid for this year. Total change in budgets and appropriations, a decrease of four thousand dollars and zero cents. General fund total to be raised in property taxes drops by four thousand dollars to a revised total of five hundred forty nine thousand six hundred ninety nine dollars and zero sense and I. So move. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:39:33] There is no Second. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:39:36] I moved the following proposed budget modification number #2A. The purpose is to limit the 2021 increase in the Town supervisors salary. The proposed change. Budget code A 1220.11. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:39:59] Personnel Services the twenty twenty one preliminary budget shows a figure of twenty four thousand dollars, as we mentioned previously. I would decrease it by two thousand dollars to a revised amount of twenty two thousand dollars and zero since it would decrease the budget appropriations by two thousand dollars. The general fund total to be raised in property taxes d rops by two thousand dollars to a revised total of $551,699.00. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:40:34] And I so move. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:40:41] What line is that? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:40:43] That is A 1220.11 I believe, personnel services. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:40:54] For Supervisor. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:41:04] Is there a Second? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:41:10] OK, next. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:41:12] OK. Next one, budget modification proposed number three, the purpose to reduce the 2021 deputy supervisors salary. The line item changes A. 1220.13. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:41:33] Personnel services, the twenty twenty one preliminary budget shows a figure of ten thousand dollars and zero sens e. I would decrease it by $5,000.00 to a revised amount of $5000.00 the change in budget appropriations. A decrease of five thousand dollars. General fund total to be raised in property taxes drops by five thousand dollars to a revised figure of $548,699.0 0 and I so move. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:42:54] Is there a second? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:43:02] OK. Next, please. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:43:03] And the final one I offer tonight is propose modification, no, for the purpose of the modification to increase the contingent account to compensate for added and or unforeseen expenditures. Code #A 1990.4 contingent account. The twenty twenty one preliminary budget shows a figure of fourteen thousand dollars. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:43:36] I would increase it by eleven thousand dollars and zero zero cents to a revised figure of twenty five thousand dollars and zero zero cents. Total change in budget and appropriations. An increase of eleven thousand dollars. General fund total to be raised in property taxes would increase by eleven thousand dollars to a revised amount of $564,699.00. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:44:10] And for the board's information, that falls well within the 10 percent limit that the state limits ones contingent account to exist to be, and I so move. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:44:25] You're proposing an increase or decrease? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:44:27] An increase in the contingent account. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:44:30] Why? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:44:31] Because we're going to have to have a lot of money spent for things that we're not intending to spend, for example, snowplowing for the town hall and the community building, because the HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT says with his staff cuts, he won't be able to do that. Furthermore, in guidance from Tompkins County, their proposed county budget has doubled the contingency account because of the uncertainty incurred by CoVid. And they say that's wise budgeting practice. I will take my lead from the leaders of Tompkins County government. I'm not doubling the contingent account, but I think there will be unforeseen expenses that we will have to draw upon in 2021. And this is sound budget practice. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:45:20] Is there a Second? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:45:25] So who's I will Second that to have the discussion? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:45:31] Who is going to do the plowing? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:45:39] With the contingent funds, because that would actually be paid for through the building fund. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:45:46] But we can do this. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:45:48] Are you suggesting to do the plowing? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:45:52] That's to be decided, we can take the out of the contingent fund and put it or we can transfer a budget transfer during the course of 21 is contingencies arise. I think we need more of a contingent fund to take care of these unforeseen consequences. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:46:21] I would amend that to increase that line by three thousand dollars. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:46:35] Is that due to the taxes? All right. What does that do to the taxes? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:46:42] Hold on a second. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:46:51] So you're saying increase it to how much now? Supervisor Beth McGee [00:46:57] It used to be 19. I actually decreased it because I didn't. And we didn't spend it. That makes the tax increase one point seven, three percent at three. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:47:09] So you think just knowing that three thousand dollars increases it to one point seventy three percent. How you can propose increasing this budget by tens of thousand nearly a hundred thousand dollars. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:47:26] And thinking that taxpayers should shoulder that burden. I just I don't understand that. So anyway, one point seventy three percent would be the increase. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:47:37] I would not have noticed that the general fund expenditures over all in the proposed preliminary budget are up by 15 percent over last year. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:47:47] So there there isn't a Second. So we can't discuss this on the Second. So if the board is not interested in my amendment, I'm fine with that. But I always note this amendment also First Amendment. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:48:03] So I just increased it. There is Aye.. So it's one point seven three is the rate. I actually don't prefer that. I prefer that the rates stay where it's at. I really don't want to increase it more than that, because if you're you need to keep in mind that whatever you don't spend between this year's budget and next year's budget will be on reserve in the tax cap calculation next year. And if you're in a better position next year, hopefully with refinancing and that sort of, you know, purchasing of property, your total assessed value will hopefully go up more than this year just because this year was so much less than last year. As far as our increase in total assessed value, last year was like 19 million. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:48:52] This year was like two million. So you're just really setting yourself up for not having a good, solid year next year if you increase it beyond what you're at now. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:49:04] But anyway, so Robert seconded it, and. Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [00:49:09] Can I ask a question. Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [00:49:11] I'm wondering if you didn't spend that contingency last year, why you think you would have to spend it this coming year. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:49:18] Well, actually, I mean, I have spent it because we had things that we added this year as far as like the Paychex line we have, and. Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [00:49:29] There's tons quite a bit left. Right. [00:49:34] And so I I'm just curious why you think we should increase it. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:49:39] Well, Bob has explained why he thinks. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:49:42] Because the Highway superintendent has threatened that doing the parking lots around the two Town buildings that we have in the park and ride is going to be an overwhelming task. Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [00:49:55] Have you gotten an estimate for how much that will cost to have those areas plowed? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:49:59] It's a contingency account... Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:50:02] There could be all kinds of unforeseen emergencies. Tompkins County has doubled its contingency account. I took my cues from the people down there, you know, Jason Milenio and Rick Snyder and people like that who are smarter budget minds than I am or anybody on this Town board is. And if they're going to double their contingency account because the future is too unknown, I think we should increase our contingency account as well. And I'm willing to settle for half a loaf rather than a full loaf. If the Town board is only going to go to three thousand dollars, that's better than nothing at all. Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [00:50:44] So you have got an estimate, though, of any sort for how much that will cost? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:50:48] No, I don't. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:50:50] So the contingency account this year, there's eleven thousand five sixty seven remaining. We did put. I believe we put money toward the Paychex. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:51:02] Fees for this year from contingency, there might have been one other budget amendment for that. And I'm not calling it smaller one. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:51:16] All it has is one hypothetical example we might have, too. And again, I don't know if it's legal to do this or don't challenge me on that point. That would be for an attorney to interpret. But if we decide to, for example, go to bonding the salt shed, we may have to expend legal fees in that area. And that may be something we can use. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:51:36] Contingency money for justice are actually absorbed in the bond. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:51:40] Those are absorbed in the bond, are included in that. So it's a it's a it's an attorney that is specifically for that purpose and it's. And the fees for the municipal solutions, who does the arrangements for us off the p ond? Contract agency for that. [00:52:00] All of that is wrapped into a bond. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:52:03] When you start a new building, you never know what comes up. There are incidentals also. Again, let's not get in the weeds on that. I just think it'd be wise budgeting to allow ourselves an increased contingency account for the year ahead. Let's leave it there. Councilperson Virginia Bryant [00:52:21] Norwich, say something. I do not agree. I've listened to people talk tonight about be ing on fixed incomes, which I also people that have lost incomes and I cannot abide with the tax rate going up. I just can't. I think there has to be, you know, us to look at. This has been a very peculiar, strange and difficult year for everybody. Governments and so forth are go into a long diatribe about that. But it just not is. It's not a year to monkey around with a budget that is keeping the tax rate low. A budget that's flat. And that's what I support. For the people of Enfield. Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [00:53:19] Given that this isn't an enormous increase, I don't feel strongly either way personally. I have to say I say again, given that this is an enormous increase. I don't feel strongly either way. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:53:36] OK. Is there any further discussion on the amendment? [00:53:40] I think. I'm sorry, Mimi. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:53:44] I Have a comment. OK? Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:53:48] I feel like the contingency fund. Invite's. Overspending. And I. I think in a year. Well, we have some members of our community. Like Uriel was expressing who are really having a hard time putting food on their table. Three thousand may not seem like much to us, but every penny is being counted. And I am willing to move towards any increase. So while I don't think it's a huge amount of money or a huge percentage, I'm not sure it's necessary. So. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:54:36] OK. So if there is no more discussion, Ellen, would you please call the vote on the amendment? Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:54:45] Calling the vote on the amendment. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:54:48] Councilperson Bryant. Councilperson Virginia Bryant [00:54:50] No. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:54:51] Councilperson Lynch. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:54:54] Aye. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:54:54] Councilperson Mahaffey. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:54:57] No Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:54:58] Councilperson Redmond . Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [00:54:59] I'm going to say no. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:55:04] Supervisor McGee. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:55:06] Aye. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:55:10] Not carried. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:55:20] My amendment was not carried. So we'll need to vote on Bob's motion. Councilperson Virgina Bryant [00:55:28] You read that back to us. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:55:31] It would increase the contingent account code. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:55:38] A 1990.4 the twenty twenty one preliminary shows that at fourteen thousand dollars I would increase. Eleven thousand dollars to a revised amount of twenty five thousand dollars. Of the general fund total to be raised in property taxes would rise by eleven thousand dollars to $564,699.00. That's the motion that I have. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:56:10] I Second did that, I believe. Councilperson Robert Lynch [00:56:13] Yes, you did Beth. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:56:17] Is there further discussion on that? [00:56:21] OK. Please, Call the vote Ellen. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:56:28] Councilperson Bryant. Councilperson Virgina Bryant [00:56:31] I'm confused. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:56:32] Why? Councilperson Virgina Bryant [00:56:35] This motion you seconded. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:56:38] I Second did Bob's motion to increase contingency by eleven thousand, OK? And I move to amend it and make it. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:56:48] So it was only a three thousand dollar increase and the board did not approve. So now, since my amendment was not approved, we have to go back and vote on his motion to change it to eleven thousand dollars increase. [00:57:02] OK. Councilperson Virginia Bryant [00:57:03] I think I've got it. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:57:03] I know these amendments are confusing, aren't they. OK. So go ahead, Ellen. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:57:09] Councilperson Bryant? Councilperson Virgina Bryant [00:57:10] No. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:57:11] Councilperson Lynch. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:57:14] Aye Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:57:15] Councilperson Mehaffey. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [00:57:17] Nay,. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:57:18] Councilperson Redmond. Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [00:57:20] No Town Clerk Ellen Woods [00:57:22] Supervisor McGee. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:57:24] No. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:57:27] Thank you. Anything else, Robert? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [00:57:29] No. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:57:39] I don't want to respond to a comment that was made about Town roads during the public hearing. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:57:53] I just want to put some information out there. Supervisor Beth McGee [00:57:56] Not really sure what the garbage service and other service questions were about or suggestions were about, but we have approximately 80 centerline mile roads in the town of Enfield, forty three point one of Town roads, tw enty four point three, two of county roads and twelve point five eight state roads. So this means forty six point two. Five percent of the roads in Enfield are not Town roads and one hundred percent of residents are paying for that. With 67 percent of our budget. Highway department costs in the A fund are approximately two hundred and ten thousand four hundred fifty dollars. This includes the bond payment, the Highway superintendent salary, the traffic safety like guardrail expenditures and the garage expenditures and the cost and the Highway superintendent contractual line, the highway dependent highway department costs in the D.A. funds are one million one hundred fifty two thousand one hundred six dollars for a total of one million three hundred sixty two thousand five hundred fifty six dollars that were appropriated for highway expenses for this year 2020. The total Town levy for 2020 was one million eight hundred sixty one thousand four hundred seventy four dollars. [00:59:26] Highway expenses equals 67 percent of the 2020 levy, but only 54 percent of the roads are Town roads. Total fire expenses are 19 percent of the 20 20 Leiby, all residents are served by that service. The Town administration is 14 percent of the 2020 levy and all residents are served by these services. So. Forty six percent of the roads in Enfield are where other residents live. Since county and state roads afford more density due to electrical service load and transportation provisions such as public transportation and on Town roads, mostly farming and spaced out homes. Then it might lead one to believe that the majority of residents in Enfield live on county and state roads. That is anecdotal. It's just a thought to put out there. [01:00:21] For instance, on the state Route 79, we have a mobile home park that has hundreds of Enfield residents that reside there on a state route, just one in one dense area. So that's just to think about that and how close homes are together on state routes as opposed to on Town roads. So this budget is it is it isn't a vindictive budget. What it actually is, is it's a reevaluation of priorities. There are things all over this town and services that are lacking. There are there's community networking and building that this town could support that have been neglected for many years, building support that's been neglected for many years. Responsibilities to the community. And this this this has been I have been just chastised over and over again that this is a vindictive budget. I disagree. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:01:28] This is a budget in which the community is really considered. And and so is some attempt to provide some equity in some way as an example of how that should continue going forward. And so you can call that vindictive if you want. I don't really understand the the. I understand the opposition to buy one. Councilperson in particular to providing equity for people Anne and their work. So I really find that pretty. Pretty disgusting, actually. [01:02:14] And I would like to encourage the board going forward to continue doing a stepped increase for administrative positions or reevaluating what administrative positions are full time. What are halftime and understanding what those tasks really are. And I will I will say that. Even though I worked closely with Alice Linton and I value the service that she provide for the provider for the Town. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:02:46] I agree with Ellen that even if she disagrees that the salary should have been higher, that we should value that responsibility much more than we do and value the responsibility of the Town Supervisor who is responsible for being the financial steward and legal stored of all Town functions. So. I really don't understand. The rejection of that, you would think that a town and its residents would be interested in having many different types of people be able to share their skill sets to provide this work for the Town. So I'm disappointed in that. I'm really disappointed in the. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:03:34] I'm just going to be here to come in and be in the gallery and and shout at you from now on. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:03:39] Are there any other board comments on the budget? Councilperson Robert Lynch [01:03:48] I would like to mention one thing, and in recent meetings we have held up Ulysses is apparently the gold standard for towns and how they run things, including their highway departments. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:04:02] I just happened to stumble today across the schedule salaries of elected officials for the Town of Ulysses. This is not the twenty twenty one budget because that hasn't even been brought to the Town board yet. But for the 2020 budget in the town of Ulysses and just listen to this. The councilpersons are each paid four thousand eight hundred twenty two dollars. A little more than ours, but not way out of line. The Town Supervisor is paid eighteen thousand nine hundred seventy dollars. Councilperson Robert Lynch [01:04:37] On the other hand, the Town Clerk gets a compensation of $56,290.00. So if we use Ulysses as a gold standard, perhaps Ellen has an argument to make it a future time. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:04:54] I agree with that. But you're missing a few lines under the Town supervisors support. You're also missing that they have a planning department which this Town is actually relied upon its Town supervisor to provide that work and development of that information. So what are the other lines that are in support of the Town supervisor there for you? This is Bob? I have yheir budget too. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:05:16] I'm having the for the schedule of salaries of elected officials. If the other people are not elected, they're not going to be on mine. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:05:24] Oh, no. So you don't have the deputy Town supervisor for the Town of Ulysses, there? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:05:28] Well, not on the list because. Nonelected position. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:05:31] All right. But I'm telling you, the Town Clerk is can say is paid considerably more. And I do reiterate what I said at the last meeting. I think compensation for the Town clerk for what she does for this Town. And I think it's got to be more than considered a half time position. I think it's an embarrassment. I think it is an embarrassment. Councilperson Robert Lynch [01:05:54] And that's why even though I like saving money, I think that her salary is out of line. It is a ministerial job. There are referenda on the ballot this November that would make it just an appointed position like any other. And it's it's not I don't think you can consider it in the same category as a political position like my own or the supervisors. So I would say that you have to revisit this in the in the months a head. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:06:26] We can't raise it above what the preliminary budget cost for. We've been over that discussion before. But we can move it by local law and in future meetings. I intend to propose a local law that would do just that. Councilperson Virginia Bryant [01:06:40] And I hope you you'll elliminate gender because it could be he or she. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:06:46] I would just like to also comment that Town of Ulysses supervisor office is supported by the supervisor salary of eighteen thousand nine hundred seventy dollars. The bookkeeper does all of the bookkeeping work. That doesn't happen here in the town of Enfield. The supervisor and deputy supervisor take it takes on much of that work. The bookkeeper there is paid forty thousand five hundred sixty dollars. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:07:08] You paid the Town supervisors bookkeeper. Ten thousand dollars. Deputy Supervisor in Ulysses makes twenty thousand two hundred eighty dollars. There is a budget officer in the town of Ulysses who makes twenty thousand two hundred eighty dollars. The supervisor project assistant makes ten thousand dollars and an additional supervisor her assistant makes twelve thousand more dollars. So please tell me again, Bob, this supervisor position in the town of Enfield does all of the tasks that are expected of the Town from the Town board, yet has none of that support tens of thousands of dollars more money than you are proposing that the supervisor has to say. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:07:53] And let me add, you neglected to add all those other salaries. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to point that up. Councilperson Virgina Bryant [01:08:04] And we're going back to a comment from someone that Diane Arimini was apologizing for, not remembered her name. You're analyzing what the jobs do and how they could be done efficiently. And maybe you break them up. And that's what's happened in Ulysses. I mean, they have a bigger budget, so on. But they broke it up. What the duties are and how they're to be paid instead of having a situation that we're in now where it's never been done. Never. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:08:33] So in the case of Boeing, you have all of those supports that you pay for, then it's reasonable to expect that your town clerk could then work part time and that your Town supervisor could then potentially work part time if you're affording through the budget the tens of thousands of other dollars in support. So the supervisor or the Clerk doesn't have to carry that load. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:08:58] So if you if you really want to seriously think about this and make these two positions absolutely part time and known as part time, then you really should consider paying the tens of thousands of dollars of other support. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:09:15] But I think they're going to consider. I think we've got a concern here that the. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:09:20] Mimi, your Mimi has not spoken yet. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:09:22] So please allow me me to speak. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:09:27] Budgets are hard. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:09:30] Especially this year when we have so many of our residents. That are really hurting. And that was always on my mind about this. The budget that that was proposed by Beth.... Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:09:48] Is amazingly progressive. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:09:52] It's taking care of the whole town's needs. It's really looking at that. And that highway department budget has increased at a much rapid rate. We have decreased the Aye. fund. A number of times in order to support the highway department. So I really feel that, you know, this progressive budget, you know, a library. Well, that's great for people, you know, or just the beginnings or the hint of a library. It's it's hopeful. It's looking forward. The Grange, who has done unbelievable work in this town, completely bipartisan and completely supportive of all people in this town. And to be able to give them just a little bit so that they can make it through this CoVid, I think is progressive and forward thinking. It's never easy to lay people off or to make them part time or did a job sharing. All of that is really hard. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:10:49] And and I do thank Patricia for saying there are other ways of dealing with that budget line. But but in the end, it's it is going to hurt. And I understand that probably better than anybody else on this board. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:11:06] In one week, I laid off 200 people and I had to talk, talk to each one of those people. [01:11:12] And it broke my heart. It did. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:11:17] This is hard stuff, and none of us are taking it lightly. I know. I know you think it's vindictive. It's not. It's looking forward and it's trying to take care of the whole event feel. And every single citizen in here, not just the people living on Town roads. So if if my road doesn't get plowed, I'm kind of used to that. I live on a dirt road. It's a seasonal road. [01:11:42] It's going to have to happen. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:11:44] You know, I better figure out how to make sure I have four wheel drive, which, you know, a lot of us do that live on on dirt roads becau se we know that that's the state of things. It's hard. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:11:56] It's it's not an easy budget. And I don't take laying off somebody lightly at all. At all. And I resent anyone that thinks that I do. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:12:06] Spending as much money on the highway department as we do. Nobody should have to require a four wheel drive vehicle to drive our Town roads. They should be properly maintained. And Buddy says he needs that fifth person to do it. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:12:22] We're not going to be able to approve it tonight. I know that. But he says he needs it. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:12:28] And I think it is unfortunate that we have to essentially live to a certain extent in the Stone Age because we don't have the manpower to get behind the heavy equipment that we bought and paid for to plow these roads when they should be plowed. Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [01:12:50] I'd like to speak for a moment. This is my first year going. What's up? I said go for it. Sorry, Beth's. Go for it. This is my first read through the budget process. And it's a painful process. It's it's really hard to take this sort of shoestring budget for a Town and take care of all the needs that we have here. You know, one of the big expenditures that we moved a lot out of the highway department was to pay for turnout gear for the fire department. And if we don't if they don't have that turnout gear and someone dies in a fire because they are out of compliance with their turnout gear, it's outdated. Then they can sue the Town and cost us millions of dollars. Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [01:13:33] So that's a requirement. And we do. We have long needed all sorts of services in this area that have gone neglected. The library is just one of those. But also talking about the inequity in the salaries and starting to address that is really important as well. So there's a lot of ways that this budget is, I think, moving in the right direction. It's a difficult budget to deal with. Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [01:13:58] And I really feel for Buddy in the position that he's in because I can see the loyalty that he has to his team there. And I appreciate I deeply appreciate that kind of loyalty that he has and. Like I said, it's a painful process to have to go through that. And I definitely I'm not taking this lightly in the position that we have, but we do have a limited budget. And I really think that you're you know, you're saying 25 dollars isn't a big deal. But to some people and I've been in that position where that 25 dollars really is a big deal. Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [01:14:31] You know, when you're trying to feed kids and trying to stay in a house, that's a big deal. An d this year, when so many people are just trying to make do without jobs and trying to get by. I just really don't feel. I mean, we're kind of doomed if we do. Doomed if we don't. Right. If we increase for the residents. That's that's, you know, putting this huge burden on residents that may not be able to handle it. And if we cut the highway department, then we're taking someone's job. If we don't fund these other services like the fire company, then we're, you know, lacking in that department. So it is a hard decision to make. And I really, after looking at this budget, I feel like it's it's the only solution that we have going forward that really takes all this into consideration and fairly and equally distributes that burden to everyone. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:15:30] I have a question, and that is, why did we race this tentative budget to preliminary status over the course of a few hours? On Wednesday, the night again referring to Ulysses. I talked to Nancy Zahler this afternoon to confirm this. She just got done writing her tentative budget as the law requires. It will be presented to the Town board for the first time tomorrow morning as the law requires. They are going to have a budget meeting on the 1st, the regular Town board meeting on the 13th. They're going to discuss it. Then we'll discuss it again on the 15th and the 19th and the 20th and maybe even the 22nd. If they need the time they examine, we're going to examine a tentative budget thoroughly line by line before elevating it to prel iminary status. Councilperon Robert Lynch [01:16:27] We have raced to I, I don't recall ever in covering a Town board back in the 70s, up till today, ever seeing a Town board that moved a tentative budget to a preliminary budget with only three hours for board members to review it before they were called into session to take action on it. This is the kind of discussion that we're having tonight that we should have had before the budget was advanced to preliminary status. It's a valuable discussion. I may not like every outcome of it, but it's the kind of thing we should be having before the public hearing rather than after it. And I'm sorry that the procedure is as it is. And I keep having to ask yourself why. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:17:18] So we've gone through lines that were of concern to you. If other board members did not have concern about the budget as it was presented, then I mean, Mimi moved it to a preliminary. So in order to get last year, I presented this to the Town Clerk on September 30th. And then I think it was October 5th when it was presented to the Town board. This year is a different animal altogether. Having some understanding and predictability as far as everything else is so unpredictable that having this in place is it allows us to move forward. It allows us to move forward. There are other things that the Town board is going to have to deal with potentially after the election. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:18:09] They'll have to be a review of how, if the residents or voters determined that they would like the laws abolishing the elected offices and creating appointed offices of Highway superintendent Anne Town clerk to go forward and be adopted. The Town board will have work to do to assess that and determine how that process is going to take place. And regardless of whether the people that are in those positions will maintain those positions or decide to stay, that that system has to be put in place by this Town board regardless. So because in the event that either one of them were to decide to leave, the Town board has to have a mechanism in place if they if the voters have determined they want them to be appointed. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:19:03] So this this is just one task that is in front of the Town board. So having this moved and the budget proposed and move to preliminary to allow this conversation to have the Enfield budget, isn't that complicated? I mean, I think we've gone through the lines of concern pretty well this evening. Most other lines we either can't really control or we are just remaining consistent with. So there's not a lot of fringe to cut. In Enfield. So the budget's not that complicated to adopt. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:19:49] But it is complicated to review on three hours notice before a meeting convenes and an elevator. And the the the budget gets elevated to a more restricted preliminary status. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:20:04] And how long have you had to review it now? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:20:09] I have had about three weeks to review it. However, as we discussed last meeting, had I wanted to increase the Town Clerk salary higher than the preliminary budget stage. It would not be legal to do so. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:20:24] I am not gathering from the rest of the Town board that that was something they were interested in. Otherwise, they would not have moved it to preliminary and adopted it as the preliminary budget. Councilperson Robert Lynch [01:20:35] Nobody had time to reasonably give it a good review. Nobody did unless they were given advance warning of it. They were given advance notice. I know it's a Councilperson I wasn't. Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [01:20:48] Well, now we've had time to review. We've had residents weigh in and it stands as it is. I don't think it would have changed. Even now, three weeks later. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:21:03] As I said in my public comment, this is no way to run a Town. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:21:24] OK. Are there any other comments on the budget? Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:21:31] Call the vote. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:21:34] I move that we move the preliminary budget to the final budget and adopt this budget with a one point five seven percent increase. With the changes that were proposed this evening. Is there any further discussion among the board? Supervisor Beth McGee [01:22:05] OK, Ellen, would you please Call the vote? Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:22:09] So I can't call the,. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:22:10] Would you please? Supervisor Beth McGee [01:22:11] Why not? Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:22:11] I can't call the vote on a salary for myself that is less than New York State minimum wage. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:22:17] So Patricia is here, correct? Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:22:20] Sure. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:22:21] OK. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:22:26] Patricia? Deputy Clerk Patricia Speno [01:22:27] Yep Supervisor Beth McGee [01:22:27] Can you please Call the vote? Deputy Clerk Patricia Speno [01:22:29] Yes. Deputy Clerk Patricia Speno [01:22:31] The vote is to adapt the budget with the changes that were amended tonight. okay and. Is that a resolution or is it? Supervisor Beth McGee [01:22:45] It's a motion. Deputy Clerk Patricia Speno [01:22:46] It's just the motion. Councilperson Bryant? Councilperson Virgina Bryant [01:22:53] Aye. Deputy Clerk Patricia Speno [01:22:55] Councilperson Lynch? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:22:57] The sake of safety, equity and responsibility No. Deputy Clerk Patricia Speno [01:23:01] Councilperson Mahaffey? Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:23:03] Aye. Deputy Clerk Patricia Speno [01:23:03] Councilperson Redmond? Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [01:23:06] Aye Deputy Clerk Patricia Speno [01:23:07] Supervisor McGee. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:23:09] Aye. Deputy Clerk Patricia Speno [01:23:10] Motion passes Supervisor Beth McGee [01:23:15] Yes. Thank you. Deputy Clerk Patricia Speno [01:23:18] Yes. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:23:28] OK. With that. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:23:36] I would like to resign effective immediately. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:23:42] To whom it may concern? Please consider this letter notification of my resignation as Town supervisor of the town of Enfield effective immediately. I am grateful to the great number of residents who have supported and trusted me to take on this role for them. I am extremely proud of the work I've accomplished with community members and previous boards over the last seven years, and I thank them for their commitment to the work of the Town. I applaud Councilperson Mimi Mahaffey, Virginia Bryant and Stephanie Redmond, who have worked valiantly together to get much work done in the midst of CoVid 19. [01:24:15] And in spite of the obstruction and toxic environment created by Councilperson, Robert Lynch, Clerk Ellen Woods and Highway Superintendent Barry Rollins. Although I had hoped to resign in April of this year, I was asked to stay on as Town supervisor to provide stability and safeguard the integrity of the Enfield Town board and its work during CoVid 19 response at great personal expense. I feel that I've met that request to the extent that I am willing to add also to the extent that is necessary to achieve those goals requested. [01:24:48] I've worked hard during my terms as Town, Councilperson and Town supervisor to employ policies and follow the law to help Enfield emerge as a productive and engaged community. I've been determined to empower the Town board and restore a long lost understanding of the authority and responsibility it holds on behalf of the residents of that at risk represents. [01:25:11] As a resident and taxpayer, I look forward to a new board that will continue to overcome and outshine the negative voices that seek to hamper responsible and positive stewardship and community connection in the town of Enfield. For all who live here, I will continue to support the Town board in these efforts. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:25:30] And I will email that to the Town Board and Town Clerk. Right now. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:25:39] There is now a vacancy in the office in the Town of our Town supervisor in the Town of Enfield. All timelin es for a special election have lapsed. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:25:55] Anyone the Town Board appoints to fill this position of Town supervisor will serve through December thirty first of 20 21. Councilperson Virginia Bryant [01:26:14] What's your motion? Supervisor Beth McGee [01:26:16] I'm not making a motion. Councilperson Virgina Bryant [01:26:18] OK. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:26:20] Thank you, Beth. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:26:24] OK, I move to appoint, Stephanie Redmen to the office of Town Enfield Town Supervisor, effective immediately. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:26:32] Is there a Second. Councilperson Virginia Bryant [01:26:34] Second. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:26:37] Is there discussion? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:26:38] I move that we adjourn this for another month until we get legal advice as to the legalities of naming Stephanie Redmond to this position. I move, we adjourn. I move that we postpone action on this for a full month. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:26:59] To get legal advice. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:27:07] Is there a Second? Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:27:13] Is there any other discussion? Councilperson Robert Lynch [01:27:15] What you're doing may not be legal. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:27:24] Ellen, please, Call the vote. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:27:31] Councilperson Bryant, Aye. [01:27:34] Councilperson Lynch no. [01:27:38] Councilperson Mahaffey,. [01:27:40] Aye. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:27:41] And I don't believe I can. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:27:43] I consulted with the Association of Towns on this, which I saw coming, and I can not call the vote from Councilperson Redmann as she can not vote to appoint herself supervisor. Supervisor Beth McGee [01:27:53] Actually she can as though she wouldn't be expected to do that for any other person. Even Bob Lynch or Mimi Mahaffey that ran out. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:28:01] Associations Of towns was very clear that she cannot. Councilperon Robert Lynch [01:28:04] Why don't you talk to Nancy Zayla? That's not how they did it in Ulysses when she was elevated. She had to resign first as a Town Councilperson, I presume, on advice of counsel. And the Town supervisor at already resigned. I believe this is illegal and I will consult with counsel on this. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:28:27] I consulted with the Association of towns. It is legal. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:28:32] However, there are only three eligible votes. They were very, very clear on this. And I consulted with them several times. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:28:43] I've got a good crystal ball. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:28:48] I move than we are adjourn. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:28:51] They said that in the case that there are only three votes on the board, which I believe in my heart and on legal advice, that there are. That With two yays and a nay. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:29:03] There need to be three full votes. Even though two years in an Aye. is a majority. And then the deputy supervisor would serve as the acting supervisor and receive the supervisor salary for the remainder of the supervisor's term. Councilperson Virginia Bryant [01:29:23] Do you understand that any letter, any official running for office can go to their vote, go to the voting station and vote for themselves? Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:29:31] That is true, but that is not true on a board. And again, I consulted the Association of Towns. You are welcome. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:29:37] Guy Krogh should really be at this meeting, but he's not. But you are welcome to call Guy. You are welcome to call the Association of Towns. But I consulted with them several times and I have to act on the best legal advice that I have received. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:29:49] There are three eligible votes on this matter. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:29:59] My late dad used to say these words when I do something that wasn't quite right. You're riding for a fall, Bob. And I'll tell you, this entire board with this community is riding for a fall. You don't realize how arrogant you are acting. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:30:17] When we had a petition with people who said, no, don't coronate, let us decide. Now, here you go. Doing what you please. And I would highly predict and I will. I would bet money on it did in November of 2021. Everybody who serves in an elected governmental position on this board, aside from me, because my term won't be up, is going to be voted out of office. So get ready for it. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:30:58] Well, Stephanie since you're going to be acting supervisor, it looks like, can we meet tomorrow night? Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [01:31:06] I think that's a good idea. Should we set up a time? Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:31:09] Can you consult with Guy Krogh between now and then? Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [01:31:13] Yes, I can. Is it possible that we could actually meet before six, we have a water council meeting or what can a meeting. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:31:23] Anytime you want Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:31:25] Don't you have to give proper notice? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:31:26] You can't meet on just 24 hours notice. Has to be 2 days? Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [01:31:34] I do have time on Friday as well. [01:31:37] OK. Councilperson Virgina Bryant [01:31:42] Just tell me when. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:31:45] Friday makes it. Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [01:31:47] Friday. Can you meet on Friday, Robert? Councilperon Robert Lynch [01:31:52] What time? Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [01:31:54] Six p.m.. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:31:57] I guess. Yes. Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [01:32:00] Let's meet at 6 pm on Friday.. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:32:05] Virginia, yes, a. Councilperson Virgina Bryant [01:32:07] Nd Friday's OK. OK. Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [01:32:11] And we will count or we will connect with Guy Krogh in the meantime and ask his advice on how to move forward. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:32:18] And who's going to post the public? I mean, what a post. The special meeting. Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [01:32:25] Ellen, are you willing to do that? I'll send you Via zoom link for it. Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [01:32:35] It looks like she is. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:32:36] No, I am. I just want to make a comment about the time. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:32:40] The last time that first of all, it's what time is it right now? It's 8:24. So the last time that we did a special meeting on very short notice, I was contacted by several other Clerks and informed that it has to be 48 hours notice. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:32:54] And so it's eight twenty four right now. And to be honest, I just got told that I'm going to make less than minimum wage for all of 2021. I'd really like to get out of here after this meeting. So I would like 48 hours from the time that I am able to post the public. Notice that sort of a CoVid. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:33:12] If Beth's McGee has resigned right now, Stephanie Redmond is in her position of deputy supervisor. She is acting supervisor. She can preside over meetings. And why? Why are we got to decide this on a Friday night? Why don't we give the community time for it to sink into their brains? Why don't we convene next week and decide this? Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:33:36] Can we have discussion on that? Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:33:39] I would just like to discussion that the 48 hours dealt with. Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:33:46] Can we have discussion on that Mimi and Virginia? Do you have an opinion? Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:33:50] Maybe. Maybe Patricia is willing to. Town Clerk Ellen Woods [01:33:53] I'm sorry, are you can't just bypass the town clerk. The thing is, is that I am the... Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:34:00] Well, I believe are actually having a theory that I was. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:34:05] Go ahead, Mimi. IDA. I'm just wondering if Patricia is willing to post it tomorrow. Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:34:14] We could ask her. Sorry, Patricia? Patricia Speno [01:34:23] Yeah, I've I've never posted it before. I can I can put it up on the marquee and everything, but I've never posted it at the Web site and. Patrica Speno [01:34:36] Ellen would have to,. Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:34:37] I'm sure we Can figure it out. If need be. Patrica Speno [01:34:42] We'll do what I can. Patricia Speno [01:34:44] I, I really haven't posted anything on the Web site yet. So even on the calendar. Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:34:56] To be honest, I'm not opposed that we wait until Wednesday, the 4th, if that's OK with everyone else. I think that'll give time fo r us to really look into the Association of Towns and the proper process. And, yeah, I. Councilperson Virgina Bryant [01:35:08] I agree with you. I agree with you. Patricia Speno [01:35:11] Yeah. Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:35:12] I'm out of town. Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:35:14] Oh, you're out of town, then? When are you leaving? Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:35:17] I'm leaving Tuesday at two. Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:35:21] Can we go from Monday to Second? Councilperson Mimi Mehaffey [01:35:24] Yes. Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:35:26] Is that okay with you, Robert? Oh, my gosh. Deputy Clerk Patricia Speno [01:35:31] There office hours to 6:00 on Monday. Three to six are office hours are. Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:35:39] OK. So we can have a meeting at at 6:00,. Patrica Speno [01:35:42] Then you can do that. Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:35:46] OK, let's let's go for a meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Monday. Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:35:51] And we will decide what to do at that point. Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:36:02] Is there any further discussion? Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:36:06] For the good of this community. The audio of minutes of this meeting will be posted back expeditiously. Acting Supervisor Stephanie Redmond [01:36:20] Are there any announcements for tonight? Councilperson Stephanie Redmond [01:36:25] I move to adjourn. Councilerperson Robert Lynch [01:36:27] I Second. Councilerperson Stephanie Redmond [01:36:31] Thank you, everyone. Have a good night. Good night.