TOWN OF WATERTOWN
Rescheduled Regular Meeting
Municipal Building
December 17, 2025
Members Present: Joel R. Bartlett, Supervisor
David D. Prosser, Councilman
Joanne McClusky, Councilwoman
Robert Slye, Councilman
Members Absent: Michael Perkins, Councilman
Supervisor Bartlett opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a roll call of members present at 7:00 pm. Attorney Harrienger was also present.
MOTION #146-2025
Supervisor Bartlett moved to adopt the minutes from the November 12, 2025 Rescheduled Regular Board Meeting, Councilman Prosser seconded.
Ayes All
Mike Altieri, BCA approached the Board with the district reports and updates:
PROJECTS IN CONSTRUCTION
Outer Arsenal Street Water District No. 1 and Sewer District No. 2 Extension
Current Construction Budget: $ 3,455,911.00
Current Change Orders (Included in Above): $ 674,180.00
Pending Change Orders: None
Estimated Completion Date: December 2025 (anticipated)
Project Status – Construction is complete and final testing of the installation is underway.
PROJECTS IN DESIGN
Water District No. 4 Extension (Northland Estates/Pine Meadows)
Construction Budget: $ 7,250,000.00
Administrative and Technical Costs: $ 1,709,500.00
Contingency: $1,040,500.00
Total Project Cost: $10,000,000.00
Total Grant Funding (WIIA and CDBG): $6,250,000.00
Anticipated Cost per EDU: $ 600/EDU (1/3 debt service, 2/3 water purchase from City)
Projected Bid Date: December 18, 2025
Projected Construction Substantial Completion Date: December 2026
Project Update -This project has received approval from NYS DOH and the Bureau of Health.
Easements are being obtained for affected property owners. Comments from DOT have been responded to and we anticipate project approval forthcoming soon. An extension request for the CDB grant has been submitted to OCR. This project is out to bid with a bid opening on December 18th.
SPECIAL NOTE ON OUTSTANDING TOWN AFRs:
For all projects funded in the Town by EFC, including WD#4 Extension and SD#1 improvements, is requiring that the Town complete and file its outstanding AFRs for the last two years (2023 and 2024) in order to close on financing with their agency. It will be imperative for these AFR completed to move these projects forward.
The town received a letter dated December 15, 2025 from Homes and Community Renewal with
an Approval of Request for Release of Funds: NYS CDBG Project #1208PW116-23.
Sewer District No. 1
Total Project Cost: $2,643,000.00 (WWTF Replacement)
$4,491,000.00 (Stormwater Improvements)
Project Funding Awarded: NYS EFC WIIA – $ 444,500.00, NYS DEC WQIP – $ 1,000,000.00 (WWTF) NYS EFC GIGP – $945,000 Grant (Stormwater)
Project Update – The Town received a $945,000 grant through the EFC GIGP Program! This program will require a Town match of $94,500 to pair with the grant award. Awaiting announcement on FEMA Funding originally applied for under storm water improvements. The Town and BCA attended two orientation webinars for the GIGP and EPG (SDs 4, 5 and 6) grants to review the documentation required for each grant. Comments from DEC and EFC were replied to and we are currently working on an updated consent order/disinfection compliance request for the DEC. Design of the new wastewater treatment facilities has begun. An agreement for the Piloting is being finalized after legal review and is awaiting final DEC approval to commence piloting. The DEC is reviewing a consent order/SPES compliance extension letter to revise the project schedule (Please note piloting schedule shift highlighted below).
Sewer District No. 1 Revised Schedule (WWTF Project Phase):
Piloting and Replacement of RBCs:
Design Start: March 2025
Begin Piloting Program: March 2025
End Piloting Program (Tentative Based on Pilot Data): September 2026
Initial Design Submission (Based on initial pilot data) October 2026
Final Design Submission (Based on final pilot data): February 2026
NYS DEC Review and Approval: April 2026
Begin Construction: July 2026
Complete Construction: December 2027
UV Disinfection:
Design Start: March 2025
Design Submission December 2025
NYS DEC Review and Approval: February 2026
Begin Construction: May 2026
Complete Construction: May 2027
Stormwater System Improvements (Tentative based upon terms of Funding obtained):
Executed Grant Agreement with NYS EFC: January 2026
Design Start: January 2026
Design Submission: July 2026
NYS EFC Review and Approval: October 2026
Begin Construction: April 2027
Complete Construction: December 2027
Sewer District 4, 5 and 6 l & l Bidding and Construction
This project effort will be combined with the new sewer alignment from SD No. 2 into the City of Watertown WWTP and the new sewer alignment of the Town’s sewer on the Circle K property. This project is out to bid with a bid opening on December 18th.
Supervisor Bartlett opened the public hearing at 7:15 p.m. to consider the formation of the Northeastern Water District (Water District No. 7) within the Town of Watertown, pursuant to an Amended Map, Plan, and Report filed with the Town Clerk. At the time the Bond Resolution was adopted, the projected EDU for the project was $911.00, although the maximum bonding amount named in the February 8, 2024 Bond Resolution has not increased, the projected EDU cost has increased to $1,100.00 per EDU. In an effort to keep the Town residents informed, and to ensure that the Town is complying with the requirements of New York Town Law § 209-h, the Town Board determined that a public hearing should be held for the purpose of hearing public comments on the increase in costs per EDU.As no one wished to speak, the public hearing was closed at 7:16 p.m.
Pat Scordo, Ryan Aubertine and Mark Tompkins, GYMO approached the Board with the district report summaries:
Northeast Water District No. 7
- Town attorney prepared an order for setting a Public Hearing in December to inform residents of the cost increase per EDU. At the December Public Hearing, Engineer workstations will be set up (similar to the August Public Info Session) where residents can review the plans, discuss with an Engineer, and sign their easements.
- Department of Agriculture and Markets issued correspondence dated 10/30/2025 stating the Town must impose the lateral restrictions or provide reasons for rejecting the Ag and Markets Dept. proposal with a detailed comparison between the Town’s proposed action and the alternative provided by the Dept. Has Town decided?
- Review Water Pumping Station siding types/color options.
- Revising plans addressing NYS DOH plan review comments.
Mr. Scordo presented notice from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets dated December 12, 2025, requesting that the Town impose conditions on the proposed water lines within the agricultural district that would limit future development connecting to the water service.
Discussion took place regarding the potential ramifications of a deed restriction. Attorney Harrienger and Mr. Scordo will contact the property owners to discuss the possible restriction on their property. They will respond to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets to advise that they are in the process of determining whether to proceed with the suggested restriction or pursue an alternative approach.
EASEMENT SUMMARY TABLE
Total Signed
Force Main and Water Service 72 41
Force Main Only 5 1
Water Service Only 68 29
Mr. Scordo will coordinate with the Town Clerk to hold an information meeting with the residents of this district in January 2026 to continue to get the easements signed.
Lettiere/Southside Water
Fact sheet (cliff notes) provided to Town Board 11/12/2025.
Engineering Report provided to Town Board 12/2/25.
No action taken at tonight’s meeting.
The floor was opened to the public for comments:
Jim Lettiere addressed the Board, stating that he hoped all members had received and read his letter. He explained that concerns raised at the prior meeting involved transite (asbestos-cement) pipes, noting that other municipalities, including the City of Watertown and surrounding counties, continue to operate asbestos pipe and address breaks by using certified contractors or abandoning pipe in place where permitted by regulation. He clarified that certain work may be done without asbestos certification so long as the pipe is not cut or made friable.
Mr. Lettiere stated that he has maintained the same proposed purchase price since 2023, but noted that continued delays create complications, as he is now subject to Public Service Commission (PSC) requirements tied to a 48% rate increase. As part of that rate case, he is required to undertake capital improvements within a specified timeframe or risk noncompliance. He explained that if the Town provided written intent to purchase the system, some capital expenditures—such as meter replacement—might be deferred. Otherwise, any capital improvements made would need to be reflected in an adjusted purchase price.
He further explained that his meters are compatible with the Town’s Neptune system and that full meter replacement could cost approximately $60,000 – $70,000. While radio read heads alone could be installed, PSC regulations under the Water Conservation Act require meters to be replaced or calibrated every ten years. He stated that his system has passed health department inspections with high marks and that regular water audits demonstrate system integrity.
Mr. Lettiere expressed frustration with the lack of direction since 2023 and requested clarity from the Board within the next month regarding whether the Town intends to proceed. He stated that PSC expects progress by March or April, with full compliance required by late summer. He suggested that a written letter of intent from the Town would allow him to justify delaying capital expenditures.
Supervisor Bartlett discussed timelines for meter replacement and suggested holding off on major purchases if possible until the Board could come to a decision on the possible purchase of the system. Mr. Lettiere stated he intended to wait until March before taking further action.
Supervisor Bartlett asked Attorney Harrienger what needs to happen to move forward on the purchase of the system.
Attorney Harrienger responded that the Board has received the updated Map, Plan, and Report prepared by GYMO. The report outlines five alternatives, the first of which is to take no action. The remaining four alternatives involve forming a district and are split between an EDU-based assessment and an ad valorem assessment. She explained that all four of those alternatives exceed the Comptroller’s statutory threshold.
Attorney Harrienger stated that if the Board wished to move forward with any alternative other than doing nothing, the Board would first need to vote on which specific alternative it intended to pursue. Once that determination was made, her office would draft the necessary documents. However, regardless of which purchase-related alternative was selected, a Comptroller’s approval application would be required, as mandated by law, because it exceeds the Comptroller threshold. There is no legal way to avoid that process.
She further explained that Comptroller applications are lengthy and detailed, but they exist to ensure that projects exceeding the statutory threshold are fiscally sound. In addition, the Public Service Commission (PSC) would also be required to participate because the existing water system is currently regulated by the PSC. Attorney Harrienger stated that in prior discussions with the Comptroller’s Office regarding financing, the Comptroller made clear that PSC involvement would be required before approval would be considered. She noted that even after submission, the Comptroller could ultimately deny the application.
Supervisor Bartlett stated that this was the first time it had been clearly understood that Comptroller approval would be required and expressed surprise that the EDU costs were high, given that the purchase price was approximately $500,000 divided among roughly 120 properties.
Attorney Harrienger responded that the Comptroller threshold had been discussed previously and reiterated that it is a significant factor in this matter, as all purchase-related alternatives exceed the threshold. All alternatives involved with the purchase of the system exceed the Comptroller’s statutory threshold by a significant margin. She stated that the current threshold is $1,101 per EDU, noting that the 2026 threshold is not yet known and changes annually. She added that rising costs, including potential future pipe replacement, would further increase financial considerations and should be factored into the Board’s decision.
Councilman Prosser asked whether the EDU threshold changes on a calendar-year basis. Attorney Harrienger confirmed that the Comptroller’s Office establishes new thresholds each year for both water and sewer districts, with the water threshold typically being higher than the sewer threshold. Historically the threshold increases slightly each year, but not by a significant amount.
Attorney Harrienger responded that seeking Comptroller approval requires submission of a full statutory application, often exceeding 1,000 pages. She explained that the Comptroller’s Office conducts a comprehensive review of the Map, Plan, and Report, all legal documents, and the overall system feasibility. She stated that the process typically includes multiple requests for supplemental information and may take approximately 18 to 24 months. She noted that she is currently in the twentieth month of a similar application for another municipality.
Supervisor Bartlett asked Mr. Scordo what the Board could do to lower the cost below the Comptroller threshold. Mr. Scordo responded, that the average water usage assumption of 175 gallons per day resulted in an annual water cost of approximately $512, with total annual costs for the four alternatives ranging from approximately $1,165 to $1,186. The capital portion of that cost was estimated at approximately $650 to $670 per EDU, based on a ten-year financing term at 3.44%. It was noted that the financing term was a primary factor in exceeding the threshold, though longer financing terms for infrastructure present their own challenges.
The Supervisor then asked whether switching from an EDU-based assessment to an ad valorem (assessed value) basis could reduce cost. It was stated that this option had been evaluated; however, the results did not bring any of the alternatives below the Comptroller threshold.
Supervisor Bartlett questioned whether the district boundaries could be reduced in size to bring the per-EDU cost below the threshold. In response, it was clarified that the primary cost driver is not construction, but the financing of the purchase itself, including approximately $500,000 for acquisition, $175,000 for engineering, legal fees, and reserve funding, as previously directed by the Board.
Attorney Harrienger stated that, at the current purchase price requested, it is not feasible for the Town to purchase the system and remain under the Comptroller’s threshold, based on the numbers presented.
Supervisor Bartlett asked whether the calculations included the approximately 60 acres across Ives Street. It was explained that the property was included in both EDU-based and ad valorem scenarios. Under the EDU calculation, the parcel was assigned a partial EDU due to its current vacant status. While inclusion of the parcel improved the ad valorem calculation slightly, it did not reduce costs enough to fall below the threshold.
The Supervisor noted that future development of the property could significantly change the assessment distribution and reduce the burden on existing properties.
Attorney Harrienger added that use of an ad valorem assessment would also create an administrative burden for the Town Clerk and Assessor, as annual reviews and verifications of assessed costs would be required in addition to their existing duties.
Mr. Lettiere stated that he had discussed the matter with representatives of the Public Service Commission (PSC). He explained that if the Town were to provide a written purchase offer, the PSC would first review the appraisal, which he stated was favorable. He noted that PSC approval of a sale typically takes approximately three months following submission of a written offer and seller consent. He also stated that replacement of the system, if required, could cost in excess of $3 million.
Attorney Harrienger acknowledged that replacement costs are an important consideration and stated that the Town would need to evaluate how such costs would be funded if a failure occurred.
Mr. Lettiere responded that, in the event of a system failure, disaster assistance, grants, or low-interest loans could potentially be available. He further noted that other municipalities operate older transite pipe systems without significant issues and that some communities experience more problems with newer ductile iron pipe than with transite pipe.
Attorney Harrienger concluded by clarifying that two separate issues must be distinguished: the formation of a water district and the purchase of the existing system. She stated that, in order to purchase the system, the Town must first form a “paper” district. The Comptroller and PSC approval process applies to district formation and financing, not merely to the act of purchase itself. She emphasized that these processes are distinct and should not be conflated.
The Supervisor requested that Attorney Harrienger prepare materials for the January board meeting outlining the available options, including whether the Town would be required to proceed to the Comptroller’s Office for approval and whether the Public Service Commission would be copied or involved. He would like for the Board to make a decision how or if to move forward at this meeting.
Supervisor Bartlett opened the floor to public for any topic:
Joe Meyer, County Route 60, raised a question regarding compliance with the New York Open Meetings Law, specifically the requirement that public notices be conspicuously posted on the Town’s website when the public body has the ability to do so. He expressed concern that public hearing notices are primarily published in the newspaper and listed within the website calendar, but are not prominently displayed on the Town’s main webpage, making them difficult for residents to find.
Attorney Harrienger explained that the current practice complies with statutory requirements, which do not specify where on the website notices must be posted. Notices are posted on the Town bulletin board, published in the newspaper, and included on the website calendar. It was noted that while the law is being followed, it does not preclude the Town from making notices more visible for convenience and public awareness.
Mrs. Desormo, Town Clerk indicated she would consult with the Town’s website administrator to explore the possibility of placing public hearing notices more prominently on the website’s main page. It was emphasized that any such change would be discretionary and intended to improve accessibility, not to address a legal deficiency.
Kathleen Eaves wife of Highway Employee Matt Eves asked for an update on the status of the payroll/retirement software purchase for which funding had been allocated at a prior meeting.
Supervisor Bartlett responded that no software purchase has been made to date, explaining that the process is lengthy due to the need to convert and migrate the existing data. Budget constraints at year-end were also cited, and it was stated that the town intends to proceed as soon as practiable.
Mrs. Eves expressed concern that approximately five weeks had passed since the prior meeting and noted that quotes and alternative software options had previously been discussed. Clarification was sought regarding whether the Board had voted to purchase a specific system. Supervisor Bartlett clarified that funds had been placed in the budget for a future purchase, but that no final authorization to purchase had yet occurred. It was noted that the Town Board wished to meet with vendor representatives and review system compatibility before executing any purchase agreement.
Discussion then turned to reported retirement and payroll discrepancies. Supervisor Bartlett stated that some reported issues raised were not errors, citing retirement system rules regarding overtime reporting for Tier 6 employees, and indicated that guidance had been obtained directly from the retirement system. He stated that not all allegations of errors were accurate.
Mrs. Eves referenced a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request to the NYS Retirement System regarding retirement account adjustments and presented documentation indicating only one single reported adjustment. Supervisor Bartlett disputed the completeness of the FOIL response, stating that multiple supplemental submissions had been made to the retirement system.
Supervisor Bartlett advised that individual payroll or retirement concerns should be addressed through established labor relations channels, including union representation, rather than during the public meeting.
Further discussion occurred regarding retirement reporting adjustments. Mrs. Eaves stated that, based on a FOIL response dated December 15, 2025 the only documented adjustment to the retirement account was a $0.30 change, and that no documentation had been provided showing an increase in credited years of service. She expressed concern that the issue remained unresolved and did not believe correction should be delayed until the next year.
Mrs. Eves requested a clear timeframe for resolution and asked the Board how the matter would move forward, expressing concern that prior attempts to resolve the issue had been delayed or canceled.
Supervisor Bartlett stated he is responsible for the retirement reports and that he would arrange for a third-party expert experienced in payroll and retirement reporting to meet with the parties to review the submissions and identify any corrections if needed.
The Board members discussed a previously identified individual from the Town of Alexandria who had agreed to assist with payroll at a rate of $25 per hour plus mileage. It was noted that she would be contacted again after the holidays. The Board indicated it would also be open to working with another qualified individual at the same rate if scheduling delays occurred.
Ms. Eaves expressed appreciation for involving a third party and agreed to follow up after the holidays, providing contact information for coordination. The Board confirmed its intent to move the matter forward with independent assistance to resolve outstanding payroll and retirement concerns. Councilman Slye will follow up with Mrs. Eves to move forward to get the issues resolved.
No one else wished to speak; the floor was closed.
Supervisor Bartlett accepted the Town Clerk’s Report.
MOTIONS/RESOLUTIONS
MOTION #147-2025
WHEREAS, Robin Kiernan has moved out of the Town of Watertown and therefore has resigned from her duties on the Zoning Board of Appeals; and
WHEREAS, a vacancy now exists on the Zoning Board of Appeals, and the Town has duly advertised to fill said position; and
WHEREAS, Chris Tibbles, who resides at 15895 Co. Rte. 155, Watertown, NY, has expressed an interest in filling the vacancy;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Chris Tibbles is hereby appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals to fill the unexpired term of Robin Kiernan, said term commencing on January 1, 2026, and expiring on December 31, 2029.
The foregoing Resolution was offered by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Board Member Prosser, and upon roll call vote of the Board was duly adopted as follows:
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins absent
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #148-2025
WHEREAS, by Order of this Board dated November 12, 2025, a public hearing was scheduled to consider a proposed increase in the cost per EDU for the Northeast Water District (Water District No. 7), as required by Town Law § 209-h.
WHEREAS, the Order scheduling the public hearing was duly posted, uploaded to the Town’s website and published as required by law the public hearing was opened on December 17, 2025.
NOW THERFORE, on motion duly made and seconded.
IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED AND ORDER, that the cost per EDU in Water District #7 will be $1,100.00 as opposed to $911.00. The maximum cost of the project has not changed.
The foregoing Resolution was offered by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Board Member Prosser and upon roll call vote of the Board was duly adopted as follows:
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins absent
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #149-2025
Engineering Planning Grant (EPG) Program
Sample Resolution Language
Town of Watertown
Engineering Planning Grant No. 2267
Sewer District Nos. 4, 5 and 6 Improvements
Authorization for Designated Representative to Execute Grant Agreement (Sample)
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Supervisor is hereby authorized to execute an Engineering Planning Grant (EPG) Agreement with the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (NYS EFC) and any and all other contracts, documents, and/or instruments necessary to facilitate the EPG project referenced herein and to fulfill the Town of Watertown obligations there under.
Authorization and Appropriation of Local Match (Sample Resolved Clause)
*Local match is a minimum of 20% of the total EPG grant award.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town of Watertown hereby authorizes and appropriates a minimum 20% local match as required by the Engineering Planning Grant Program for the Sewer District Nos. 4, 5 and 6 Improvements in the amount of $ 10,000 and based upon the total EPG Grant award of $ 50,000.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the source of the local match, and any amount in excess of the required match, shall be provided by the Town of Watertown in the form of BANs, bonds, general fund, in kind services and other co-funding sources.
The foregoing Resolution was offered by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Board Member Prosser and upon roll call vote of the Board was duly adopted as follows:
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins absent
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #150-2025
Green Innovation Grant (GIGP) Program
Sample Resolution Language
Town of Watertown
CWSRF Project No. 6023-03-01
GIGP Grant No. 2326
Lettiere Tract Drainage Improvements
Authorization for Designated Representative to Execute Grant Agreement (Sample)
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Supervisor is hereby authorized to execute an Green Innovation Grant Program (GIGP) Agreement with the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (NYS EFC) and any and all other contracts, documents, and/or instruments necessary to facilitate the GIGP project referenced herein and to fulfill the Town of Watertown obligations there under.
Authorization and Appropriation of Local Match (Sample Resolved Clause)
*Local match is a minimum of 10% of the total GIGP grant award.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town of Watertown hereby authorizes and appropriates a minimum 10% local match as required by the Green Innovation Grant Program for the Lettiere Tract Drainage Improvements in the amount of $ 94,500 and based upon the total GIGP Grant award of $ 945,000.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the source of the local match, and any amount in excess of the required match, shall be provided by the Town of Watertown in the form of BANs, bonds, general fund, in kind services and other co-funding sources.
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was made by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Councilmember Prosser and upon a roll call vote of the Board was duly adopted as follows:
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins absent
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #151-2025
Supervisor Bartlett moved to pay the following abstracts as audited.
Vouchers paid prior to monthly meeting
General Vouchers # 224 to 226 Total $ 16,321,84
Highway Vouchers # 184 to 184 Total $ 25,762.10
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 136 to 136 Total $ 6,239.63
Vouchers approved for monthly meeting
General Vouchers # 227 to 246 Total $ 72,570.16
Highway Vouchers # 185 to 195 Total $ 6,084.95
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 137 to 147 Total $ 281,067.12
Councilman Prosser seconded the motion.
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins absent
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #152-2025
WHEREAS, the term of office of Terry MacAdam will expire on December 31, 2025, and Mr. MacAdam has expressed an interest in reappointment to the Planning Board for the term commencing January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2030.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED; Mr. MacAdam is hereby appointed to another term of office on the Planning Board for the term commencing January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2030.
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was offered by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Councilmember Prosser, and upon a roll call vote was adopted as follows:
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins absent
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #153-2024
WHEREAS, the term of office of Robert Wormwood will expire on December 31, 2025, and Mr. Wormwood has expressed an interest in reappointment to the Zoning Board of Appeals for the term commencing January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2030.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, Mr. Wormwood is hereby appointed to another term of office on the Zoning Board of Appeals for the term commencing January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2030.
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was made by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Councilmember Prosser and upon a roll call vote of the Board was duly adopted as follows:
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins absent
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #154-2025
RESOLUTION #20 OF 2025
DEVELOPER’S AGREEMENT
WHEREAS, Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation d/b/a National Grid will be rebuilding a portion of its existing Thousand Islands – Coffeen #4 115 KV transmission line with the North Watertown to Coffeen #7115 KV transmission line upgrade project (the “Project”) located in the Town; and
WHEREAS, The Project will require a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (“SWPPP”‘) to be reviewed by the Town Engineers; and
WHEREAS, Professional Services, in all fairness, should not be absorbed by Town Taxpayers as a whole and the Town Board has the authority to require review fees for such matters (which are reasonably necessary to accomplish the statutory demands) be paid by the Developer; and
WHEREAS, the Developer has reviewed and expressed a willingness to accept the proposed Developer’s Agreement and has executed the same; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has expressed a desire to accept the proposed Developer’s Agreement and is prepared to proceed as follows.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, NY:
- The above recitations are incorporated herein and made a part of as if set forth thereafter.
- The Town Board accepts, and approves, the attached Developer’s Agreement for the Project as being in the best interest for the Town of Watertown, Town Taxpayers, and the Developer and approves receipt of the initial deposit set forth therein.
- The Supervisor for the Town of Watertown is authorized to sign all documents and shall take all steps necessary to support this Resolution and the Town Clerk is authorized to receive the deposit in a separate account and which shall be drawn down against audited bills during the review and/or construction process.
- This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was made by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Councilmember Prosser and upon a roll call vote of the Board was duly adopted as follows:
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins absent
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #155-2025
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Town of Watertown, New York
Proposed Local Law 1-2026: Prohibition of Clutter, Litter, and Debris
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Local Law has been introduced before the Town Board of the Town of Watertown to address a prohibition of clutter, litter, and debris within the Town.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing in connection with the proposed legislation will be held at the Municipal Office, located at 22867 Brookside Drive, Watertown, NY 13601 on January 8, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. An opportunity to be heard in regard thereto will then and there be given to all persons interested in this proposed legislation.
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was made by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Councilmember Prosser and upon a roll call vote of the Board was duly adopted as follows:
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins absent
Councilman Slye yes
Councilwoman McClusky asked about getting monthly accounting statement.
Supervisor Bartlett said they should be caught up next month.
Councilman Prosser requested a plaque be made in honor of Catherine Rich for her years of service and dedication to the town.
MOTION #156-2025
Councilman Prosser moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:47 pm, seconded by Supervisor Bartlett.
Ayes All
_____________________________
Pamela D. Desormo, Town Clerk