Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-02-07 Town Board Minutes FEBRUARY 7, 2024 5:00 P.M. TOWN BOARD MEETING The Regular Meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Cortlandville was held at the Raymond G. Thorpe Municipal Building, 3577 Terrace Road, Cortland, New York with Supervisor Williams presiding. Members present: Supervisor, Thomas A. Williams Councilman, David J. Donlick Councilman, Jeffrey D. Guido Councilman, Gregory K. Leach Councilman, Glenn D. Reisweber Town Clerk, Kristin E. Rocco-Petrella Others present were: Deputy Town Clerk, Abigail Albro; Assistant to the Supervisor, Amanda Rainbow; Highway Superintendent, Larry Drach; Town Justice, Mary Beth Mathey; Chief Court Clerk, Margaret Capps; Town Residents: Barbara Leach; Pamela Jenkins; Bob Martin; Bernice Potter-Masler; Karen Snyder; Cheryl Ann Crispell and Dustin Smith; News Reporter: Jack Lukowsky from Cortland Standard. Others present via Zoom video/telephone conference: Sunday Earle. Supervisor Williams called the Regular Meeting to order and introduced the students from the McGraw High School Drama Club who were in attendance to perform one of their songs for their upcoming musical, Back to the 80’s. After their musical presentation, the Board thanked the students for their time and for sharing their talent. They encouraged the public to see the upcoming show. The Board proceeded with the meeting and the agenda items. Councilman Leach made a motion, seconded by Councilman Guido, to approve the Draft Town Board Minutes of December 20, 2023. All voting aye, the motion was carried. RESOLUTION #49 AUTHORIZE SUPERVISOR TO SIGN PURCHASE ORDER #0225 TO AFTERMARKET EFFECTS, LLC FOR THE PURCHASE OF AN EIGHT FOOT WESTERN PRO PLOW FOR A WATER/SEWER PICKUP TRUCK FOR THE TOTAL COST OF $7,065.00 Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Donlick VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby authorize and direct the Supervisor to sign Purchase Order #0225, as submitted by Water/Sewer Superintendent, Brian Congdon to be paid to Aftermarket Effects, LLC for the purchase of an eight-foot Western Pro Plow for a water/sewer pickup truck, for the total cost of $7,065.00. RESOLUTION #50 AUTHORIZE SUPERVISOR TO SIGN PURCHASE ORDER #0221 TO KOESTER ASSOCIATES, INC. FOR THE PUMP STATION CONTROLS UPGRADE (CYCLOPS) AND THE PURCHASE OF FOUR (4) PUMP STATION CONTROLLERS AND TELEMETRY FOR THE WATER/SEWER DEPARTMENT FOR THE TOTAL COST OF $47,200.00 Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby authorize and direct the Supervisor to sign Purchase Order #0221, as submitted by Water/Sewer Superintendent, Brian Congdon to be paid to Koester Associates, Inc. for the pump station controls upgrade (Cyclops) and the purchase of four (4) pump station controllers and telemetry for the Water/Sewer Department, for the total cost of $47,200.00. FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 2 RESOLUTION #51 AUTHORIZE TRANSFER OF FUNDS TO BALANCE ACCOUNTS FOR THE 2023 BUDGET Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Reisweber VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Supervisor is hereby authorized and directed to transfer funds (final) to adjust the accounts of the 2023 Budget for the Town of Cortlandville as provided by the Financial Administrator as follows: BUDGET JOURNAL ENTRIES: Debit Credit Amount Reason A1620.4 A1110.4 $15,587.24 To balance budget A1410.4 A1410.1 $831.78 Longevity not accounted for A1355.1 A1420.1 $239.85 To balance budget A1355.1 A1420.4 $4,154.05 Lawsuit not budgeted for A1430.1 A1430.41 $7,028.63 Human Resources Consulting work A1620.4 A1680.4 $4,381.84 Plan First Technology services A5132.4 A5182.4 $17,503.55 To balance budget A9010.8 A7110.1 $3,168.80 Added full time employee A9010.8 A7110.4 $13,957.57 To balance budget A9010.8 A7110.43 $113.15 To balance budget A9010.8 A7110.44 $1,276.88 To balance budget B1460.4 B1420.4 $4,872.00 Lawsuit not budgeted for B1460.2 B1910.4 $536.00 Came in over budget B1460.2 B4020.1 $800.14 To balance budget B8664.4 B8664.1 $665.81 To balance budget DB5110.1 DB5110.4 $1,865.56 To balance budget DB5130.2 DB5132.4 $68.31 To balance budget SS8110.4 SS8110.1 $2,098.96 To balance budget SW8310.4 SW8310.2 $2,530.29 To balance budget RESOLUTION #52 AUTHORIZE PAYMENT OF VOUCHERS – YEAR END 2023 (ABSTRACT #27) Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Donlick VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the vouchers submitted have been audited and shall be paid as follows: Funds A, B, DA, DB, Voucher #1920-1930 HG, SF, SS, SW General Fund A $ 10,339.12 General Fund B $ 126.71 Highway Fund DA $ 0.00 Highway Fund DB $ 50,013.78 Gutchess Lumber SC Project HG $ 0.00 C’Ville Fire District SF $ 0.00 Sewer Fund SS $ 25,800.00 Water Fund SW $ 15,000.00 Funds CD1, CD3, CD4 Voucher #(None) BMills Rehab CD1 $ 0.00 Town Wide Rehab CD3 $ 0.00 Business Devl CD4 $ 0.00 Funds TA, TE Voucher #(None) Trust & Agency TA $ 0.00 Expendable Trust TE $ 0.00 FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 3 RESOLUTION #53 AUTHORIZE PAYMENT OF VOUCHERS – FEBRUARY Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Donlick VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the vouchers submitted have been audited and shall be paid as follows: Funds A, B, DA, DB, Voucher #53-147 HG, SF, SS, SW General Fund A $ 35,161.70 General Fund B $ 90,138.77 Highway Fund DA $ 0.00 Highway Fund DB $ 189,662.79 Gutchess Lumber SC Project HG $ 204,522.15 C’Ville Fire District SF $ 898,845.00 Sewer Fund SS $ 2,535.39 Water Fund SW $ 10,952.68 Funds CD1, CD3, CD4 Voucher #(None) BMills Rehab CD1 $ 0.00 Town Wide Rehab CD3 $ 0.00 Business Devl CD4 $ 0.00 Funds TA, TE Voucher #1-4 Trust & Agency TA $ 71,609.58 Expendable Trust TE $ 0.00 Supervisor Williams offered privilege of the floor to Pamela Jenkins. Town resident, Pamela Jenkins expressed objections to the creation of a new Town Manager position (item J4-b), citing concerns about added appointed officials not being in the interest of taxpayers. She highlighted that surrounding towns, including Skaneateles, Lansing, and Dewitt, expect their elected Supervisor to serve as the town manager. Ms. Jenkins emphasized the potential lack of accountability for an appointed Town Manager. Moving on to item J -6, she criticized the Resolution proposing a 50% raise for Richard Tupper as Financial Advisor, increasing the contractual payment from $12,000 to $18,000 per year. She suggested that any payments to Mr. Tupper should come from the funds allocated to Supervisor Williams as Budget Officer. Ms. Jenkins referenced the NYS Comptroller guidelines, stating that the Supervisor serves as both budget officer and town executive. She asked for a resolution to reverse the $5,000 raise given to Mr. Guido, emphasizing that Deputy Town Supervisors are not required to be paid above a nominal sum for additional duties. Ms. Jenkins concluded by requesting the immediate dismissal of the concept of creating a Town Manager position and the consideration of resolutions to address the concerns raised. Her full comments were later submitted to the Town Clerk for the record. Supervisor Williams offered privilege of the floor to Bob Martin. Town resident, Bob Martin, provided corrections and additional information regarding recent Cortland Standard articles on the Gutchess Lumber Sports Complex (GLSC). Mr. Martin detailed what he said were the actual costs of the second phase of GLSC, highlighting expenses such as Smith Site Development, Field Turf USA, CHA Consulting, Clerk of the Works, and miscellaneous purchase orders, totaling $4,441,292.10. He pointed out that the original cost estimate presented in August 2021 was $750,000 to $1,000,000, with the cost of the turf falling within this range. Mr. Martin also highlighted Phase 2 development items not completed and expenditures related to designing GLSC structures. He raised questions about the projected total cost, financing plans, and the need for a feasibility study before further work on GLSC, including the $6.7 million parking lot (Community Hub at Cortlandville). Mr. Martin expressed concerns about the Town’s contractual obligations with PBR and urged logical sequencing with the completion of the feasibility study. He questioned the justification for the $6.7 million grant and mentioned potential non-baseball facilities for GLSC, including bocce ball, volleyball, pickleball courts, horseshoe pits, and walking/running trails. Finally, Mr. Martin raised questions about the plan for GLSC, cost savings, and the Town Supervisor’s salary, Budget Officer, Town Financial Advisor, and the potential addition of a Town Manager. Mr. Martins comments were later submitted to the Town Clerk for the record. FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 4 Councilman Donlick made a motion, seconded by Councilman Leach, to receive and file the following monthly reports: 1. Water/Sewer Department – December 2023; 2. Town Supervisor – December 2023; 3. Code Enforcement Officer, Kevin McMahon – January 2024; 4. Water/Sewer Department – January 2024; 5. Tax Collector – January 2024; 6. Town Clerk – January 2024; and 7. Town Historian – January 2024. All voting aye, the motion was carried. RESOLUTION #54 ACCEPT ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TOWN CLERK Motion by Councilman Guido Seconded by Councilman Donlick VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Annual Report of the Town Clerk, as submitted by Town Clerk, Kristin E. Rocco-Petrella, RMC for the year 2023 is hereby accepted, and shall be received and filed. RESOLUTION #55 ACCEPT THE UNIFORM CODE ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2023 Motion by Councilman Reisweber Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Uniform Code Administration and Enforcement Annual Report, as submitted by Code Enforcement Officer, Kevin McMahon for the year 2023 is hereby accepted, and shall be received and filed. Councilman Guido made a motion, seconded by Councilman Donlick, to receive and file correspondence from Charter Communications, dated January 26, 2024 and February 2, 2024, regarding programming services. All voting aye, the motion was carried. Under old business there was discussion regarding the request from Dan Harris, Shoe Show Incorporated, dated January 12, 2024, regarding a plumbing issue at 818-822 Bennie Road that resulted in excessive water usage that did not enter the sewer system; requesting a refund/credit of $212.59. The Board previously tabled the matter with Councilman Donlick citing concerns that it was a commercial property, and that Board consideration was typically given for residential properties. Councilman Leach suggested the Board follow the Water/Sewer Superintendent’s recommendation to refund/credit the sewer charges of $205.81 due to the water leak. RESOLUTION #56 AUTHORIZE SUPERVISOR TO ISSUE A SEWER REFUND TO CROWN COURT/SHOE SHOW INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $205.81 FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 818-822 BENNIE ROAD Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED WHEREAS, the Town Board received email correspondence from Dan Harris requesting the Board forgive the sewer portion of the January 2024 water/sewer bill due to a plumbing issue that resulted in excessive water usage at the shopping plaza located at 818-822 Bennie Road, in which there was a “broken hose bib outside”, and FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 5 WHEREAS, upon review of said request and investigation by the Water and Sewer Department, and on the recommendation from Water/Sewer Superintendent, Brian Congdon, it was determined that excess water did not go through the sewer system and that a refund in the amount of $205.81 for a portion of the sewer bill could be forgiven, and WHEREAS, the property owner has paid the quarterly bill in full and has a $0.00 balance, therefore BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby authorize and direct the Supervisor to issue a refund or for the Town Clerk to credit the account for Crown Court/Shoe Show Inc. in the amount of $205.81 for sewer charges, for property located at 818-822 Bennie Road (Account #2162) in the Town of Cortlandville, and it is further RESOLVED, the Town Clerk is hereby authorized to adjust the sewer benefit tax for the year 2025 if necessary. Under old business, Attorney DelVecchio discussed the proposed resolution for an audit of the New York State 2022 General Election as presented by the New York Citizens Audit group. He clarified that the resolution does not endorse the group but aims for Town support in adopting audit procedures for safe elections. Supervisor Williams raised concerns about aligning with the group due to dramatic claims about deficiencies in the election system. He suggested inviting local election commissioners to a meeting to gather their thoughts on the matter. Councilman Reisweber supported the idea of involving local officials and proposed inviting them to share their perspectives at an upcoming meeting. Supervisor Williams expressed interest in hearing from the local officials if they are willing to attend. (Note: The resolution was adopted contingent on attorney approval at the January 16, 2024 meeting.) RESOLUTION #57 TABLE FURTHER ACTION REGARDING THE SUPPORT FOR THE “RESOLUTION FOR AN AUDIT OF THE NEW YORK STATE 2022 GENERAL ELECTION” AS PRESENTED BY THE NEW YORK CITIZENS AUDIT GROUP Motion by Councilman Guido Seconded by Councilman Reisweber VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED RESOLVED, the Town Board hereby tables further action regarding the support for the “Resolution for an Audit of the New York State 2022 General Election” as presented by the New York Citizens Audit group, which was approved by the Town Board contingent on Town Attorney Approval at the January 17, 2024 Town Board meeting, in order to allow the Town to contact the Cortland County Election Commissioners to invite them to a meeting to comment on the resolution. Under new business Town Clerk/Collector Rocco-Petrella requested the Board receive and file correspondence from Town Justice Mathey and Town Justice DeMarco regarding the annual audit/review of the court records by the Town Board and the requirement to forward the information to the Office of Court Administration. Councilman Guido made a motion, seconded by Councilman Leach, to receive and file correspondence from Town Justice Mathey, dated February 7, 2024, and correspondence from Town Justice DeMarco, dated February 7, 2024, regarding the audit of the court records by the Town Board and the requirement to forward the information to the Office of Court Administration. All voting aye, the motion was carried. Town Board Member reports: Councilman Leach recalled his request for a reduction in speed limit on East River Road in the Town of Cortlandville and asked if a petition by the residents of the road must be signed. Supervisor Williams would inquire with the County as to whether a specific form must be used to petition for a reduced speed limit on a county road. FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 6 Supervisor Williams reported: NYSERDA Grant: Supervisor Williams notified the Board that the Town received a $5,000 grant from NYSERDA. More information, and the formal acceptance of the award will occur at the next meeting. Creation of New Position – Town Manager: Supervisor Williams proposed the creation of a Town Manager position, discussing the need for a full-time role to handle administrative tasks, budget issues, and disbursements. He suggested that the new position would allow the Supervisor and Town Board to focus on legislative functions; the Supervisor and Board would continue to adhere to their duties as specified in Town Law. The financial aspects were addressed such as how the salary would be budgeted for. Supervisor Williams mentioned there was already a $50,000 budget line for the salary of the Budget Officer, Financial Advisor and part-time assistance for the Financial Administrator as needed. He also considered a reduction in the salaries for the Supervisor, Deputy Supervisor and Board Members. Supervisor Williams suggested the Board add the item to the next meeting agenda for public discussion and to answer questions. The Board could either move forward with the proposal afterwards by directing the Town Attorney to draft a local law to create the position or not. Members of the Board expressed varied opinions, with Councilman Reisweber recommending further discussion stating, “this is a major structural shift in the town government that has incredible second and third order impacts for long after I’m gone”. He recommended the proposal go to a committee for further discussion and review, as well as to determine where the money would come from for the salary. Supervisor Williams suggested that public comment be heard and if the proposal moves ahead then a search committee would be needed. If the Board moved forward with creating the position, he did not anticipate it would be created and filled until perhaps the end of the year. Attorney DelVecchio explained the legal steps for creating the position, which would include drafting a local law, holding a public hearing, followed by a vote to approve the local law or not. Councilman Leach emphasized the importance of public input before drafting a local law, and Councilman Donlick mentioned the importance of the public knowing where the money for the salary would come from; he anticipated the salary would not be less than $65,000. Ultimately, a motion was made by Councilman Leach, seconded by Councilman Guido, to request public comment at the next board meeting (February 21, 2024) regarding the creation of a new position for Town Manager. The Board would provide answers to questions if they were able to do so. Supervisor Williams explained that the Board was only exploring the possibility of creating the position and would like public feedback as to whether or not they should pursue it. The Town Clerk would publish a public notice to solicit public comments/input and would also post the notice to the Town website. Further comments were made by those in attendance, with Ms. Jenkins stating that in order for the public to make comments they need to know specifics such as a job description. Mr. Martin asked for the job duties, description and salary range. Supervisor Williams reiterated that the Board was exploring the possibility of creating the position at this time and was gathering information. RESOLUTION #58 REQUEST PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING THE PROPOSAL FOR THE CREATION OF A NEW POSITION TITLED “TOWN MANAGER” AT THE FEBRUARY 21, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board hereby requests public comment regarding the proposal for the creation of a new position titled “Town Manager” at the February 21, 2024 Town Board Meeting, and it is further RESOLVED, the Town Clerk shall provide public notice regarding the request. FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 7 RESOLUTION #59 ASSIGN TOWN ADMINISTRATORS FOR THE CORTLAND COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT POINT OF DISPENSING (POD) PROGRAM FOR THE TOWN OF CORTLANDVILLE Motion by Councilman Guido Seconded by Councilman Leach VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board hereby assigns the Assistant to the Supervisor, Amanda Rainbow, and Assessment Clerk, Keisha Chase, as the Town Administrators for the Cortland County Health Department Point of Dispensing (POD) Program for the Town of Cortlandville and authorizes them to participate in the required training. There was discussion regarding the installation of fiber-optic high-speed internet at the Gutchess Lumber Sports Complex (GLSC) through Spectrum, for an approximate installation cost of $5,100 plus monthly fees for the internet service based on the collective needs for the Town and PBR Tournaments. The Board discussed the proposal citing concerns about the cost, which could be covered by the Town’s grant for Phase 2 of the park construction, as well as the actual need for the service as it was not included in the Town’s contract with PBR. After continued discussion, the Board decided to table the matter. RESOLUTION #60 TABLE ACTION REGARDING THE INSTALLATION OF FIBER-OPTIC HIGH-SPEED INTERNET AT THE GUTCHESS LUMBER SPORTS COMPLEX (GLSC) Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Donlick VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board hereby tables action regarding the installation of fiber-optic high-speed internet at the Gutchess Lumber Sports Complex (GLSC) through Spectrum, for an approximate installation cost of $5,100 plus monthly fees for the internet service, to allow the Town Board more time to research the matter. RESOLUTION #61 AUTHORIZE THE TOWN SUPERVISOR TO APPLY FOR A $10,000 GRANT THROUGH THE NEW YORK STATE ENERGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (NYSERDA) CLEAN ENERGY COMMUNITIES (CEC) PROGRAM Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Donlick VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board hereby authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor to apply for a $10,000 grant through the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Clean Energy Communities (CEC) program, and it is further RESOLVED, the Supervisor is further authorized to submit the required information to NYSERDA regarding all four wheeled vehicles in the municipal fleet. There was discussion regarding the request to install a “Paychex Proximity scanner” for the Town Highway Department and possibly the Town Hall to assist in the time and attendance process at a monthly cost of $110.00 per unit. Highway Superintendent Drach expressed the need for the scanner at the Highway Department, mentioning that a significant and overburdensome amount of his time is spent on completing payroll for his department due to errors with the Paychex time and attendance program. A retina scanner was originally installed at the highway garage; however, it did not work well and was returned to Paychex. The new scanner should alleviate FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 8 errors and decrease the amount of time Highway Superintendent Drach spends correcting and validating his employees’ time. The Board discussed the technical aspects of the program with suggestions for other solutions such as upgrades to Wi-Fi. The need for a scanner at the Town Hall was not necessary at this time but could be discussed at a later date if needed. RESOLUTION #62 AUTHORIZE THE INSTALLATION OF ONE “PAYCHEX PROXIMITY SCANNER” AT THE TOWN HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT TO ASSIST IN THE TIME AND ATTENDANCE PROCESS Motion by Councilman Donlick Seconded by Councilman Leach VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board hereby authorizes the installation of one (1) “Paychex Proximity Scanner” at the Town Highway Department to assist in the time and attendance process for the total cost of $110.00 per month. The Town Board discussed eligible projects for funding under the NYSERDA Clean Energy Communities Program (CEC) grant as provided to them from the CEC guidelines. The Highway Superintendent and Water/Sewer Superintendent were in favor of pursuing the procurement of electric landscaping equipment such as chainsaws, weed eaters and leaf blowers. A quote was provided by the Highway Superintendent in the amount of $12,594.00 for such equipment. Discussion was heard including concerns regarding electric equipment and the potential for fires, with Supervisor Williams explaining the fireproof boxes and storage of such equipment. The Board agreed to move forward with pursuing electric equipment as an eligible project for CEC funding. RESOLUTION #63 AUTHORIZE THE TOWN SUPERVISOR TO PURSUE ELECTRIC LANDSCAPING EQUIPMENT AS AN ELIGIBLE PROJECT FOR FUNDING UNDER THE NEW YORK STATE ENERGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (NYSERDA) CLEAN ENERGY COMMUNITIES (CEC) PROGRAM Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board hereby authorizes the Town Supervisor to pursue electric landscaping equipment, such as chainsaws, weed eaters and leaf blowers, as eligible project for funding under the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Clean Energy Communities (CEC) program. RESOLUTION #64 AUTHORIZE SUPERVISOR TO EXECUTE DISCHARGE OF MORTGAGE BETWEEN THE TOWN AND JERI ANN WALKER REGARDING THE 2016 TOWNWIDE HOUSING REHABILITATION PROGRAM Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby authorize and direct Supervisor Williams to execute the discharge of mortgage between the Town and Jeri Ann Walker, 655 Lime Hollow Road, Cortland, New York, regarding the 2016 NYS Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Townwide Housing Rehabilitation Program (#287HR326-16), in the amount of $28,161.35. FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 9 RESOLUTION #65 AUTHORIZE SUPERVISOR TO SIGN THE OWNER- OCCUPIED LOAN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE TOWN AND GEORGE R. MOWRY AND LORI L. MOWRY FOR THE TOWN’S 2021 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT TOWN-WIDE HOUSING REHABILITATION PROGRAM (CDBG #287HR317-21) Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby authorize and direct the Supervisor to sign the Owner-Occupied Loan Agreement between the Town of Cortlandville and George R. Mowry and Lori L. Mowry, 3238 S. Cortland-Virgil Road, Cortland, New York, regarding the extension of loan funds by the Town’s 2021 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Town-Wide Housing Rehabilitation Program (#287HR317-21) for the total amount of $21,737.80. There was a brief discussion regarding the contract between the Town and Richard Tupper. Councilman Leach clarified that included in the vouchers approved tonight was payment for the services of Mr. Tupper for the month of January. RESOLUTION #66 AUTHORIZE HIRING RICHARD C. TUPPER AS A FINANCIAL ADVISOR TO THE TOWN OF CORTLANDVILLE FOR THE YEAR 2024 Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby authorize and direct the Supervisor to hire Richard C. Tupper as a Financial Advisor to the Town of Cortlandville, effective January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024, at a rate of $1,500.00 per month, with an option to renew his services. RESOLUTION #67 APPROVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 SUBMITTED BY COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS, LLC FOR THE GUTCHESS LUMBER PARK DEVELOPMENT – PHASE 2, CONSTRUCTION OF CONCESSION BUILDING Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby authorize and direct the Supervisor to execute Change Order No. 1 from Complete Construction Concepts, LLC for the Gutchess Lumber Park Development - Phase 2, Construction of Concession Building (EPF Project No. 210954), to add one additional exterior door (total change from 8 to 9), for the cost of $1,350.00, increasing the original total contract price from $252,175.00 to $253,525.00. RESOLUTION #68 DECLARE A 2015 CHEVROLET 2500 PICKUP TRUCK AS SURPLUS EQUIPMENT AND AUTHORIZE WATER/SEWER SUPERINTENDENT TO SELL THE VEHICLE USING AUCTIONS INTERNATIONAL Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Donlick VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 10 BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby declare a 2015 Chevrolet 2500 pickup truck (Truck #106 - VIN #1GC2KVEG0FZ528485) as surplus equipment due to it being replaced by the purchase of a 2024 Chevy 2500 pickup truck (Truck #107 – VIN #2GC4YNE74R11809680), and it is further RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby authorize and direct Water/Sewer Superintendent Congdon to sell the vehicle using Auctions International. Councilman Reisweber made a motion, seconded by Councilman Guido, to receive and file the Memorandum from Town Code Enforcement Officer, Desiree Campbell, dated January 23, 2024, regarding the completed exterior property maintenance inspection of the Cortland Mobile Home Park and violations; and the Landmark Mobile Home Park, in which no violations were noted, resulting in a recommendation for the Town Board to approve the renewal for Landmark Mobile Home Park. All voting aye, the motion was carried. RESOLUTION #69 AUTHORIZE RENEWAL OF MOBILE HOME PARK PERMIT FOR LANDMARK MOBILE HOME PARK FOR 2024 Motion by Councilman Guido Seconded by Councilman Donlick VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED WHEREAS, CNY MHPS, LLC of Rochester, New York, owner, submitted a completed application and the appropriate fee of $30.00 for the renewal of the Landmark Mobile Home Park Permit for property located at 1030-1038 Route 13 in the Town of Cortlandville, tax map #96.09- 04-09.000, and WHEREAS, Town Code Enforcement Officer, Desiree Campbell conducted an inspection of the Mobile Home Park on January 11-12, 2024, and submitted her inspection report to the Town Board for review, and WHEREAS, no violations were noted by CEO Campbell, therefore BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby approve the Mobile Home Park Permit Renewal for CNY MHPS, LLC for the Landmark Mobile Home Park for the year 2024, and it is further RESOLVED, the Town Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to issue the Mobile Home Park Permit, which shall be valid until December 31, 2024, at which point the permit must be renewed. There was discussion regarding the hiring of retired Court Clerk, Susan Soule on a per diem basis until the vacant position has been filled, to which the Board agreed to hire her at a rate of $30.00 per hour. The Office of Court Administration (OCA) was consulted by the Town Justices and there was no problem with hiring Mrs. Soule as her required training was up to date. The discussion then shifted to the starting salary for the vacant full-time Court Clerk position, initially advertised at $33,000-$39,000, and later adjusted to $38,000-$39,000. At the request of the Town Justices, the Board considered a recommendation from OCA to offer up to $43,000 based on qualifications. It was mentioned that the Justices requested salary increases for the court clerks during the 2024 budget process, however the request was not approved. The potential increase in starting salary for the vacant position raised concerns about how it could impact other employees. Councilman Leach made a motion, seconded by Councilman Guido, to discuss the matter further, with a unanimous decision to continue advertising the position at the specified amount of $38,000-$39,000. Councilman Donlick mentioned that the Town offers a good benefit package with health insurance, paid time off, longevity, and NYS Retirement. The Board hoped the position would be filled, otherwise the Board could revisit the discussion later. RESOLUTION #70 AUTHORIZE SUPERVISOR TO HIRE SUSAN SOULE AS A PART-TIME CONTRACT EMPLOYEE FOR THE TOWN OF CORTLANDVILLE AS A COURT CLERK FOR THE TOWN JUSTICES FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 11 Motion by Councilman Reisweber Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED WHEREAS, due to the retirement of Susan Soule as Court Clerk a vacancy exists for the full-time position of Court Clerk, and WHEREAS, the Town Board received a request from the Town Justices to hire Susan Soule as a part-time contract employee to assist the Court when needed, and until the vacant position has been filled, therefore BE IT RESOLVED, at the request of the Town Justices, the Town Board hereby authorizes the hiring of Susan Soule as a part-time contract employee for the Town of Cortlandville as a Court Clerk for the Town Justices effective February 8, 2024, and it is further RESOLVED, Mrs. Soule shall be paid a wage of $30.00 per hour with no benefits, and it is further RESOLVED, the correspondence from Justice Mathey and Justice DeMarco, dated January 30, 2024, is hereby received and filed. RESOLUTION #71 AUTHORIZE THE TOWN JUSTICES TO CONTINUE ADVERTISING THE VACANT COURT CLERK POSITION AT A SALARY OF $38,000-$39,000 PLUS BENEFITS Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board hereby authorizes and directs that the Town Justices continue to advertise the vacant Court Clerk position at the salary of $38,000 - $39,000 plus benefits. RESOLUTION #72 AUTHORIZE PAYMENT APPLICATION NO. 1 SUBMITTED BY COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS, LLC FOR THE GUTCHESS LUMBER PARK DEVELOPMENT – PHASE 2, CONSTRUCTION OF CONCESSION BUILDING Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby authorize and direct the Supervisor to execute Payment Application No. 1 as submitted by Complete Construction Concepts, LLC for payment in the amount of $33,093.00 for the Gutchess Lumber Park Development – Phase 2, Construction of Concession Building (EPF Project No. 210954), which reflects the work completed and stored to date. RESOLUTION #73 AUTHORIZE SUPERVISOR TO SIGN A ONE-YEAR MUNICIPAL CONSULTING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE TOWN OF CORTLANDVILLE AND RESOURCE ASSOCIATES FOR PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES Motion by Councilman Guido Seconded by Councilman Leach VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach NAY – 0 ABSTAIN – Reisweber ADOPTED FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 12 BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby authorize and direct the Supervisor to sign a one-year Municipal Consulting Agreement between the Town of Cortlandville and Resource Associates for professional engineering services to the Town for services as listed in the agreement, at a rate of $200.00 per hour, effective February 7, 2024 until February 7, 2025. RESOLUTION #74 AUTHORIZE SUPERVISOR TO SIGN THE MUNICIPAL CONSULTING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE TOWN OF CORTLANDVILLE AND CHA CONSULTING, INC. FOR PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES TO THE TOWN FOR THE YEAR 2024 Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby authorize and direct the Supervisor to sign the Municipal Consulting Agreement between the Town of Cortlandville and CHA Consulting, Inc., for professional engineering services to the Town for the year 2024, and it is further RESOLVED, CHA Consulting, Inc. shall be utilized for larger engineering projects as determined by the Town. Councilman Donlick made a motion, seconded by Councilman Reisweber, to receive and file correspondence from Cortland County, dated February 1, 2024, regarding the Cortland County Department of Social Services hosting a Community Resource Fair on March 12, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. All voting aye, the motion was carried. Councilman Leach made a motion, seconded by Councilman Guido, to receive and file correspondence from the New York State Public Service Commission regarding a virtual public statement hearing being held February 13, 2024 to solicit input and comments regarding a petition by Homer Solar Energy Center, LLC. All voting aye, the motion was carried. RESOLUTION #75 APPOINT BRANDON GALUTZ AS A MEMBER OF THE TOWN OF CORTLANDVILLE PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION TO FILL A VACATED POSITION Motion by Councilman Reisweber Seconded by Councilman Donlick VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED WHEREAS, per Town Board Resolution #18 of 2024, the Town Board appointed Brandon Galutz as a Member of the Town of Cortlandville Parks & Recreation Commission to fill a five-year term that will expire December 31, 2026, however he was not administered an oath of office within the required time period resulting in a vacancy, therefore BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby appoint Town resident, Brandon Galutz as a Member of the Town of Cortlandville Parks & Recreation Commission to fill the remainder of the five-year term commencing January 1, 2024 until December 31, 2026. RESOLUTION #76 REAPPOINT KATY WAGNER AS A MEMBER OF THE TOWN OF CORTLANDVILLE PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION Motion by Councilman Donlick Seconded by Councilman Reisweber VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 13 WHEREAS, per Town Board Resolution #17 of 2024, the Town Board reappointed Katy Wagner as a member of the Town of Cortlandville Parks & Recreation Commission for a five-year term that will expire December 31, 2028, however she was not administered an oath of office within the required time period resulting in a vacancy, therefore BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby reappoint Town resident, Katy Wagner as a Member of the Town of Cortlandville Parks & Recreation Commission to serve a five -year term commencing January 1, 2024 until December 31, 2028. RESOLUTION #77 REAPPOINT THOMAS A. BILODEAU TO THE CORTLANDVILLE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Motion by Councilman Guido Seconded by Councilman Donlick VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED WHEREAS, per Town Board Resolution #16 of 2024, the Town Board reappointed Thomas A. Bilodeau as a Cortlandville Zoning Board of Appeals Member, however he was not administered an oath of office within the required timeframe resulting in a vacancy, therefore BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby reappoint Thomas A. Bilodeau of 4457 Route 41, McGraw, New York, to the Cortlandville Zoning Board of Appeals for a five-year term effective January 1, 2024 until December 31, 2028. Councilman Leach made a motion, seconded by Councilman Guido, to receive and file correspondence from Nick Alteri, Town Historian, dated January 15, 2024, regarding a new intern from SUNY Cortland History Department, Mr. Matthew Rivera, who will be assisting in the digitizing of records. All voting aye, the motion was carried. RESOLUTION #78 AUTHORIZE SUPERVISOR TO TRANSFER FUNDS FROM FUND BALANCES INTO ESTABLISHED RESERVE ACCOUNTS PER THE 2023 BUDGET Motion by Councilman Leach Seconded by Councilman Guido VOTES: AYE – Williams, Donlick, Guido, Leach, Reisweber NAY – 0 ADOPTED BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board does hereby authorize and direct the Supervisor to transfer the following funds from fund balances into the following reserve accounts per the 2023 Budget: - $50,000.00 from DB fund balance into Highway Equipment Capital Reserve Fund DB 231 - $15,000.00 from Water fund balance into Water Improvement Capital Reserve Fund SW 231 - $25,800.00 from Sewer fund balance into Sewer Improvement Capital Reserve Fund SS 231 With nothing further to come before the Board, Supervisor Williams requested the Board convene to an Executive Session to discuss pending litigation and personnel, to be followed by an Attorney-Client privilege meeting. Councilman Guido made a motion, seconded by Councilman Reisweber, to recess the Regular Meeting to an Executive Session to discuss pending litigation and personnel. All voting aye, the motion was carried. The meeting was recessed at 6:39 p.m. Councilman Guido made a motion, seconded by Councilman Donlick, to adjourn the Executive Session and reconvene the Regular Meeting. All voting aye the motion was carried. The Executive Session was adjourned at 7:08 p.m. Members of the public were invited to return to the meeting at this time. FEBRUARY 7, 2024 TOWN BOARD MEETING PAGE 14 No action was taken. With no further comments or discussion to be heard, Supervisor Williams adjourned the Regular Meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 7:08 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Kristin E. Rocco-Petrella, RMC Town Clerk Town of Cortlandville *Note: The draft version of this meeting was submitted to the Town Board for their review on February 27, 2024. The final version of this meeting was approved as written at the Town Board meeting of March 6, 2024.