TOWN OF WATERTOWN
Regular Meeting
Municipal Building
June 12, 2025
Members Present: Joel R. Bartlett, Supervisor
David D. Prosser, Councilman
Joanne McClusky, Councilwoman
Michael Perkins, Councilman
Robert Slye, Councilman
Members Absent:
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 #69-2025
Supervisor Bartlett moved to adopt the minutes from the May 8, 2025 Regular Town Board Meeting, Councilman Prosser seconded.
Ayes All
MOTION #70-2025
Supervisor Bartlett moved to adopt the minutes from the June 3, 2025 Special Town Board Meeting, Councilman Prosser seconded.
Ayes All
Public Hearing – Proposed Local Law #2 of 2025
Supervisor Bartlett opened the public hearing at 7:04 p.m. regarding Proposed Local Law #2 of 2025, a local law to enact a zone change from Residential 1 (R-1) to Manufacturing (M) for a designated area located south of Massey Street Road.
Richard Netto, Co Rte. 63, Massey Street Road inquired about the proposed zoning change in his area, specifically questioning how the change would affect his property and whether it was necessary to include his parcel in the proposed zone.
Mr. Netto further asked if, under the new zoning, he would still have the ability to sell a portion of his property for future residential development. He asked what the reason for the zone change was.
Supervisor Bartlett responded that Mr. Netto would still be permitted to utilize his property for residential purposes. Even if the zoning designation changed to Manufacturing, the property’s assessment would continue to reflect residential use, and residential development would still be allowed. The request for the zone change came from the property owner, no details can be released at this time.
Discussion took place as to the three possible scenarios for a zone change.
A resident from County Route 63 inquired whether there would be additional meetings that the public could attend to learn more about the landowner’s plans for the parcel affected by the proposed zone change.
Supervisor Bartlett responded that the landowner would be seeking approvals from the Town Planning Board which at that time there would be a public hearing.
No one else chose to speak; the public hearing was closed at 7:13 p.m.
Supervisor Bartlett opened the public hearing at 7:13 p.m. regarding Proposed Local Law #3 of 2025. A Local Law for proposed zoning updates to the Town Code.
No one chose to speak; the public hearing was closed at 7:14 p.m.
Supervisor Bartlett introduced Mike Altieri, BCA to give updates on town projects:
PROJECTS IN CONSTRUCTION
Outer Arsenal Street Water District No. 1 and Sewer District No. 2 Extension
Current Construction Budget:$ 3,307,691.00
Current Change Orders (Included in Above):$ 525,960.00
Pending Change Orders: None Current
Estimated Completion Date: December 2025 (anticipated)
Project Status – Awaiting final determination of Industrial Park Lift station PLC issues and final DEC review of revised connection with the City of Watertown.
NYS Route 12F Watermain Installation
Original Construction Budget: $ 660,816.00
Original Contract Price: $ 603,069.90
Final Projected Construction Budget: $ 611,254.90
Project Status – Final completion, final cleanup, restoration and as-builds are complete.
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 (around 10%)
Total Project Cost: $ 10,000,000.00
Total Grant Funding (WM and CDBG): $ 6,250,000.00
Anticipated Cost per EDU: $ 600/EDU (1/3 debt service, 2/3
water purchase from City)
Projected Bidding Date: June/July 2025
Projected Construction Substantial Completion Date: June 2025
Project Update – Comments have been received from NYS DOH and the Bureau of Health. Comments and responses have been reviewed with DOH, anticipating final response to comments by next week. Water Purchase IMA with the City was approved at the last City Council Meeting Several water quality issues have been reported by residents over the last few months at Northland Estates and Pine Meadows.
Sewer District No. 1
Total Project Cost: $ 2,643,000.00 (WWTF Replacement)
$ 4,491,00.00 (Stormwater Improvements)
Project Funding Awarded: NYS EFC WIIA – $ 444,500.00 (WWTF)
NYS DEC INCIP – $ 1,000,000.00 (WWTF)
Project Update Several funding programs have opened up recently for the storm water improvements project phase, including from FEMA and GIGP. The GIGP application was submitted on April 11, 2025 with a request of $1,000,000. The FEMA application was submitted on May 1st for $2,887,000. Additional grant opportunities forthcoming with the CFA and NYS EFC.
The project team met onsite on April 23rd with NYS DEC to discuss the final details of the piloting and preliminary project scoping. Comments are being addressed on the engineering report based upon additional feedback from this visit.
Sewer District No. 1 Revised Schedule (WWIF Project Phase):
Begin Piloting Program: August 2025
End Piloting Program (Tentative): December 2025
Design Start: March 2025
Design Complete: January 2025
NYS DEC Review and Approval: April 2026
Begin Construction: June 2026
Construct Disinfection Units: June 2027
Complete Construction and Begin Operation: September 2027
Sewer District 4, 5 and 6 I&I Study
This study investigated the occurrence of inflow and infiltration (18z1) in the Town’s sewer system serving Districts 4, 5 and 6. Several structures were identified as needing repair and/or replacement. The total maximum inflow into the system is estimated at 101 GPM. The final l & I study has been submitted to the City in accordance with the agreement. BCA submitted for an Engineering Planning Grant with EEC in April for future study of upgrades for these sewer districts.
Average Water Usage: 79,304 GPD (2024)
Maximum Metered Sewer Flow: 200,000 GPD (May to November 2024)
Total Repair Cost: $ 164,000.00
Total Estimated Savings Per Year: $ 15,000/Year
Estimated Sewer Credits to the Town (1:3 rule): 48,500 GPD
Supervisor Bartlett introduced Mr. Pat Scordo to give an update on the Northeast Water District and the proposed Lettiere Tract Water System.
Northeast Water District No. 7
• Design Plans 95% complete; (pending regulatory agency review). Will be resubmitting the Booster Pumping Station Site Plan and Subdivision Plans and revised hydraulic calculations, back to the NYS DOH.
• Soil Borings/Rock Probes are complete.
• Williams Water Pumping Station – Working with Town Attorney on Purchase Contract and Resolution, Land Surveyors prepared a Subdivision Plan and GYMO informally attended the Town Planning Board meeting in June for Subdivision and Site Plan. Formal Planning Board presentation July 7, 2025.
• Work with Municipal Solutions to have a Public Information session regarding CDBG individual homeowner funding for water laterals.
• Planning to start the water main easement process after initial review is completed by regulatory agencies.
Lettiere/Southside Water
Refer to Town Attorney regarding Petition and Order for Public Hearing.
Supervisor Bartlett inquired of Attorney Harrienger two questions regarding the formation of the proposed Lettiere Track District and the petition submitted in favor of it:
1. Since the petition is favorable and conforms to requirements, does the Town Board have the authority to modify the district boundaries as originally proposed and signed by residents?
2. If modifications are made, would that require another public hearing or a new petition drive, or can the existing petition simply be modified to reflect the changes?
Attorney Harrienger responded that a new public hearing would not be required. Modifications to the proposed district can be made after the public hearing is held, provided the changes reduce the size of the district. If the district were to be expanded, however, another public hearing would be required.
Discussion – Lettiere Track District Formation and Financing Options
Supervisor Bartlett provided comments regarding the formation and financing of the proposed Lettiere Track Water District, outlining several key points:
• The original estimate included $1.2 million in construction costs, with a significant portion approximately $700,000 allocated for extending water and sewer lines, particularly along Ives Street Road.
• If the district is limited to current users only, those already receiving water service, these extension costs could be eliminated, substantially reducing the overall project cost.
• The district could be formally established using the existing service area only, excluding undeveloped lots or future residential construction. This would allow the system to be registered as a functioning district composed of active users only.
• Financing could be achieved through the issuance of a revenue bond by the Town Board. Revenue bonds are tied directly to a specific project and are repaid solely from fees collected from users within the district. This would ensure no financial burden is placed on residents for outside the Lettiere Track District.
• He noted that a long-term bond might typically be 38 years, but with the reduced construction costs, the debt term could potentially be shortened.
• Establishing the district using only current users is a more equitable and financially viable option, particularly for those concerned about subsidizing water services for future development or non-users.
Supervisor Bartlett stated that if the Town Council decides to move forward with the project, many of the concerns and objections could be addressed by excluding the area outside the existing district area from the proposed district. This would make the Lettiere Track residents solely responsible for the associated costs. To implement this approach, the Town would need to create a new, smaller district, effectively modifying the current proposal to reflect only the properties that are actively using the water service today. This revision would help resolve outstanding concerns related to district boundaries and financial responsibility.
The Supervisor opened the floor to the public:
Dan Olney, Shepard Street inquired when the water district would be installed in this area. Many residents in that area are without water. He asked if the town could do anything to help with the drainage problems around his property.
Supervisor Bartlett responded that area would be one of the first to be connected to the new water district.
No one else wished to speak; Supervisor Bartlett closed the floor to the public.
Supervisor Bartlett accepted the Town Clerk’s Report.
Supervisor Bartlett recognized receipt of a letter submitted to the Town Board by Dave Soderquist, Lettiere Tract concerning the proposed water district.
MOTIONS/RESOLUTIONS
MOTION #71-2025
Supervisor Bartlett offered a motion to reschedule the regular July Town Board meeting, which is normally held on the second Thursday of the month, to Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.,
to be held at the Town of Watertown Municipal Offices,22867 County Route 67, Watertown, NY 13601. All business scheduled for the regular meeting will be conducted at this rescheduled session. Motion is seconded by Councilman Prosser
Ayes all
MOTION #72-2025
WHEREAS, the Town Public Works Superintendent has selected a new Deputy Superintendent to perform the duties of the Superintendent in the event of his absence; and
WHEREAS, Michael Smith, a current employee of the Town Public Works Department, has been designated by the Superintendent to serve as Deputy Public Works Superintendent; and
WHEREAS, under the current collective bargaining agreement, Michael Smith shall receive a wage increase of $1.00 per hour above his current rate of $25.22, for a total hourly wage of $26.22 while serving in this capacity;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Board of the Town of Watertown hereby acknowledges the designation of Michael Smith as Deputy Public Works Superintendent and approves the corresponding wage adjustment as outlined above, effective with pay period #13, June 15th, 2025.
A motion to adopt the foregoing motion was offered by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Councilmember Prosser, and upon a roll call vote was adopted as follows:
Supervisor: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky Yes
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #73-2025
WHEREAS, a position of Deputy Town Clerk/Deputy Registrar of Vital Statistics has become available; and
WHEREAS, Annette Sentell, PO Box 23, Brownville, NY 13615, has applied for the position and meets all qualifications;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Annette Sentell is hereby appointed as Deputy Town Clerk/Deputy Registrar of Vital Statistics, effective June 13, 2025, through December 31, 2027;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this position shall be part-time until it transitions to a full-time position, with a starting salary of $42,900.
A motion to adopt the foregoing motion was offered by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Councilmember Prosser, and upon a roll call vote was adopted as follows:
Supervisor: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky Yes
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #74-2025
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town of Watertown, 22867 Co. Rte. 67, Watertown, NY 13601 hereby establishes the following standard work days for these titles and will report the officials to the New York State and Local Retirement System based on their record of activities:
Title Name Term Begins/Ends Standard Work Day ROA Days/PPP
Supervisor Joel Bartlett 1/1/2024-12/31/2025 7.5 9
Town Clerk Pamela Desormo 1/1/2024-12/31/2027 7.5 10
Highway Superintendent
Ted Clement 1/1/2024-12/31/2027 8 10
Justice Matthew Porter 1/1/2023-12/31/2026 4.96 month
Zoning Board of Appeals 3 year
Brandon Cooney 01/1/23-12/31/2027
Planning Board Member 2 month
Pamela Desormo 01/01/2022-12/31/2026
A motion to adopt the foregoing motion was offered by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Councilmember Prosser, and upon a roll call vote was adopted as follows:
Supervisor: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky Yes
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #75-2025
WHEREAS, the Jefferson- Lewis BOCES provides drug and alcohol testing for the Town of Watertown public works department employees pursuant to an agreement (on file) and;
WHEREAS, the contractual agreement under the terms and conditions noted therein is due for renewal upon the expiration of the old contract for said services.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Supervisor is hereby authorized to execute the contract for service with Jefferson-Lewis BOCES for the period commencing July 1, 2025 and expiring June 30, 2026.
The foregoing motion 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: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky Yes
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #76-2025
RESOLUTION#6 of 2025
WHEREAS, the Town Board for the Town of Watertown, New York is interested in securing a 0.418-acre (18,000 sf) portion of real property located at 20516 Weaver Road, Watertown, New York 13601 Tax Parcel No. 83.15-2-15.2 (the “Subject Premises”) as the site of a Pump Station for Water District No. 7; and
WHEREAS, Barbara E. Williams, Terry R. Williams, and Valerie S. Hoover are the record owners of the Subject Premises; and
WHEREAS, Barbara E. Williams, Terry R. Williams, and Valerie S. Hoover have stated interest in selling the Subject Premises for Twelve Thousand and 00/100 Dollars ($12,000.00); and
WHEREAS, the Town Board for the Town of Watertown has been provided with a Purchase Agreement regarding the Subject Premises; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board for the Town of Watertown wishes to move forward with the purchase of the Subject Premises under the terms outlined in the aforementioned Purchase Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Joel Bartlett, as Supervisor of the Town of Watertown, is hereby authorized to execute all documents necessary to effectuate the transfer of all rights, title and interest of Barbara E. Williams, Terry R. Williams, and Valerie S. Hoover in the Subject Premises to the Town of Watertown on behalf of Water District No. 7.
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: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky Yes
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #77-2025
ORDER #1 of 2025
SCHEDULING PUBLIC HEARING TO DISCUSS AND CONSIDER PETITION SUBMITTED REGARDING THE LETTIERE WATER SYSTEM
(LETTIERE TRACT)
WHEREAS, the Town Board for the Town of Watertown, New York has been presented with a Petition regarding the Lettiere Tract Water System, such petition being attached herewith and incorporated by reference; and
WHEREAS, the Petition was submitted by eligible Town residents in an effort to seek the Town’s establishment of a Water District; and
WHEREAS, the Petition states that the boundaries of the proposed district shall be all of the properties in the Town of Watertown which are currently a part of the Lettiere Water System Tract, plus eight (8) additional homes located on Ives Street in the Town of Watertown; and
WHEREAS, the Petition proposes the creation of a Town Water District which would include all of the parcels currently serviced by the Lettiere Water System. The Petition proposes that the residents within the Lettiere Tract would pay James Lettiere, Jr. no more than $500,000.00 for the existing Lettiere Water System. The petition also proposes that the existing Lettiere Water System would be extended to include eight (8) homes located on Ives Street; and
WHEREAS, the Petition states that the maximum amount to be expended shall be $1,263,000.00, with anticipated construction costs of $763,000.00 and $500,000.00 being paid to James Lettiere for the existing aged infrastructure by the residents in the proposed district; and
WHEREAS, it is proposed that there will not be hook-up fees for the eight (8) aforementioned homes located on Ives Street; and
WHEREAS, the Petition states the proposed district would include 147 parcels; and
WHEREAS, the estimated cost to a typical property annually (EDU) is anticipated to be $1,001.00; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board, in compliance with New York Town Law, must schedule a public hearing regarding the Petition in order to hear all persons interested in the Petition’s subject; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board must thereafter determine whether or not the Petition is Statutorily sufficient; and
WHEREAS, should the Town Board find following the Public Hearing that it is not in the public interest to grant in whole or in part the relief sought within the Petition, the Town Board is under no obligation to move forward with the creation of a Water District.
NOW, THEREFORE, on motion duly made and seconded, it is:
ORDERED, that a Public Hearing be held on the 17 day of July 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at the Town of Watertown Municipal Building located at 22867 County Route 67, Watertown, New York to hear all persons interested, and it is further
ORDERED, that the Town Clerk shall cause a Notice of Public Hearing to be published at least once in the official newspaper for the Town of Watertown not less than ten (10) nor more than twenty (20) days before the date set for the hearing, and shall cause a copy of the same to be posted on the sign board of the Town of Watertown, maintained pursuant to the provisions of Town Law, not less than ten (10) nor more than twenty (20) days before the date designated for the hearing and shall upload said Notice on the Town of Watertown’s website.
The foregoing Order 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: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky Yes
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #78-2025
WHEREAS, The Law firm of Barclay Damon has submitted a Letter of engagement and Retainer for the performance of acting as Bond Council for the Town to perform all necessary legal work to effectuate the development, construction and creation of the Northeast Water District, and known as Water District #7;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Supervisor is hereby authorized to execute the letter of engagement, retainer, and fee for service agreement between the Law firm of Barclay Damon and the Town of Watertown for the services stated under the terms and conditions contained within the Letter of engagement.
The foregoing Order 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: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky Yes
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #79-2025
First Amendment to Water Services Agreement – City and Town of Watertown
Supervisor Bartlett offered a motion to approve the First Amendment to the Agreement for the Provision of Water Services between the Town of Watertown and the City of Watertown.
The amendment authorizes the purchase of an additional 125,000 gallons per day of water to serve Water Districts No. 4, 5, and 6, as well as the Northland Mobile Home Community.
Supervisor Bartlett noted that the amendment is necessary to ratify the City of Watertown’s position to sell the additional water supply to the Town of Watertown. The motion includes authorization for the Supervisor to execute the amended agreement as presented and to formally request the additional 125,000 gallons per day from the city. Motion is seconded by Councilman Prosser.
Supervisor: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky Yes
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #80-2025
RESOLUTION #7 of 2025
INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT
RALPH GREEN
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, New York from time to time experiences the need for minor and/or routine electrical services to be completed by a readily available professional; and
WHEREAS, the Town has evaluated the Town’s Procurement Policy and New York General Municipal Law § 103; and
WHEREAS, the Town desires to enter into an independent contractor agreement with Ralph Green; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Green similarly desires to enter into an independent contractor agreement with the Town; and
WHEREAS, the Town reasonably expects to be in full compliance with the Town of Watertown Procurement Policy and New York General Municipal Law § 103, as the same may be amended from time to time; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has reviewed a proposed independent contractor agreement, the same being attached herewith and incorporated by reference.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, New York:
1. That the Town Board of the Town of Watertown finds it in the best interest of the Town to into an independent contractor agreement with Ralph Green.
2. That the Town Supervisor of the Town of Watertown is authorized to sign the aforementioned independent contractor agreement on behalf of the Town.
3. This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
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: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky Yes
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #81-2025
RESOLUTION #8 of 2025
INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT
ANGEL FRENCH
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, New York desires to obtain services from Angel French as the Waste Treatment Plant Operator for the Town; and
WHEREAS, Ms. French possesses a New York State DEC Grade 2 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification; and
WHEREAS, the Town has evaluated the Town’s Procurement Policy and New York General Municipal Law § 103; and
WHEREAS, the Town desires to enter into an independent contractor agreement with Angel French; and
WHEREAS, Ms. French similarly desires to enter into an independent contractor agreement with the Town; and
WHEREAS, the Town reasonably expects to be in full compliance with the Town of Watertown Procurement Policy and New York General Municipal Law § 103, as the same may be amended from time to time; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has reviewed a proposed independent contractor agreement, the same being attached herewith and incorporated by reference.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, New York:
1. That the Town Board of the Town of Watertown finds it in the best interest of the Town to enter into an independent contractor agreement with Angel French.
2. That the Town Supervisor of the Town of Watertown is authorized to sign the aforementioned independent contractor agreement on behalf of the Town.
3. This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
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: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky Yes
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #82-2025
RESOLUTION #9 of 2025
INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT
RICHARD LACY, JR.
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, New York desires to obtain services from Richard Lacy, Jr. as the Backup Waste Treatment Plant Operator for the Town; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Lacy possesses a New York State DEC Grade 4A Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification; and
WHEREAS, the Town has evaluated the Town’s Procurement Policy and New York General Municipal Law § 103; and
WHEREAS, the Town desires to enter into an independent contractor agreement with Richard Lacy, Jr.; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Lacy similarly desires to enter into an independent contractor agreement with the Town; and
WHEREAS, the Town reasonably expects to be in full compliance with the Town of Watertown Procurement Policy and New York General Municipal Law § 103, as the same may be amended from time to time; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has reviewed a proposed independent contractor agreement, the same being attached herewith and incorporated by reference.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, New York:
1. That the Town Board of the Town of Watertown finds it in the best interest of the Town to enter into an independent contractor agreement with Richard Lacy.
2. That the Town Supervisor of the Town of Watertown is authorized to sign the aforementioned independent contractor agreement on behalf of the Town.
3. This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
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: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky Yes
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #83-2025
RESOLUTION 10 of 2025
ENACT LOCAL LAW #2 of 2025 REGARDING
Zone Change on South Side of Massey Street Road
WHEREAS, the Town Board for the Town of Watertown, New York is interested in enacting a Local Law that will address a zone change on the South side of Massey Street Road, extending to the City of Watertown line, which would change such area from a Residential 1 (R-1) district to a Manufacturing (M) district; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has reviewed the proposed legislation and has further determined that none of the Town’s currently existing Local Laws, ordinances, rules, or regulations address the same.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, New York as follows:
1. The forgoing recitation is incorporated herein and made a part hereof as if set forth herein.
2. The Town Board hereby enacts the Local Law for a zone change as being in the best interests of the Town of Watertown.
3. The Supervisor for the Town of Watertown, and the Town Clerk, their respective agents and employees are hereby authorized to sign all documents and take all steps necessary to enact this legislation.
4. This Legislation shall be filed with the New York State Department of State and shall become effective thereafter.
5. This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
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: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky No
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
The Board reviewed the Full Environmental Assessment Form.
MOTION #84-2025
RESOLUTION 11 of 2025
NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR SEQR (Long Form)
FOR LOCAL LAW NO. #2 OF 2025
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, New York has considered the adoption of Local Law No. 2 of 2025 in the Town of Watertown in connection with a zone change on the South side of Massey Street Road, extending to the City of Watertown line, from Residential 1 (R-1) to Manufacturing (M); and
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Watertown has reviewed an Environmental Assessment Form for the purpose of assisting the Town Board in making a determination of significance in respect to the Legislation; of whether the enactment of the Legislation would have a significant adverse impact on the environment; and
WHEREAS, the Town has reviewed the criteria for determining significance of an action that is set forth at 6 NYCRR §617.7(c); and
WHEREAS, having considered the action, consisting of the adoption of the Legislation and the potential environmental impacts associated with such action, the Town Board has determined to proceed.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Watertown finds that the proposed action of adopting the legislation is subject to SEQR; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the action constitutes an unlisted action under SEQR 617.2(al); and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Board is the agency with jurisdiction by law to fund, approve, or directly undertake this action, and therefore, a coordinated review of the action under SEQR is neither required nor necessary.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, New York:
1. Based upon the examination and consideration of the Long Environmental Assessment Form and comparison of the proposed action and criteria set forth at 617.7, no significant impact on the environment is known by the adoption of the proposed legislation.
2. The Supervisor for the Town of Watertown is authorized to execute the Long Environmental Assessment Form to the effect that the Town Board is issuing a “negative declaration” under SEQR.
3. A complete copy of the EAF including its negative declaration shall be maintained in the Town Clerk’s office in a file that will be readily accessible to the Public. All subsequent notices regarding the undertaking of the project as set forth in this Resolution shall state that a negative declaration has been issued.
4. This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
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: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky No
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #85-2025
RESOLUTION #12 of 2025
ENACT LOCAL LAW #3 of 2025 REGARDING
Updates to the Town of Watertown Zoning Law
WHEREAS, the Town Board for the Town of Watertown, New York is interested in enacting a Local Law that will address changes to the existing Town of Watertown Zoning Law, resulting in clarification of the Zoning Law and further resulting in Solar Battery Energy Storage to be allowed in a limited capacity within certain areas of the Town; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has reviewed the proposed legislation and has further determined that none of the Town’s currently existing Local Laws, ordinances, rules, or regulations address the same.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, New York as follows:
1. The forgoing recitation is incorporated herein and made a part hereof as if set forth herein.
2. The Town Board hereby enacts the Local Law updating the Town of Watertown Zoning Law as being in the best interests of the Town of Watertown.
3. The Supervisor for the Town of Watertown, and the Town Clerk, their respective agents and employees are hereby authorized to sign all documents and take all steps necessary to enact this legislation.
4. This Legislation shall be filed with the New York State Department of State and shall become effective thereafter.
5. This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
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: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky No
Councilman: Michael Perkins No
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
The Board reviewed the Full Environmental Assessment Form.
MOTION #86-2025
RESOLUTION 13 of 2025
NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR SEQR (Long Form)
FOR LOCAL LAW NO. #3 OF 2025
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, New York has considered the adoption of Local Law No. 3 of 2025 in the Town of Watertown that will address changes to the existing Town of Watertown Zoning Law, resulting in clarification of the Zoning Law and further resulting in Solar Battery Energy Storage to be allowed in a limited capacity within certain areas of the Town; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Watertown has reviewed an Environmental Assessment Form for the purpose of assisting the Town Board in making a determination of significance in respect to the Legislation; of whether the enactment of the Legislation would have a significant adverse impact on the environment; and
WHEREAS, the Town has reviewed the criteria for determining significance of an action that is set forth at 6 NYCRR §617.7(c); and
WHEREAS, having considered the action, consisting of the adoption of the Legislation and the potential environmental impacts associated with such action, the Town Board has determined to proceed.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Watertown finds that the proposed action of adopting the legislation is subject to SEQR; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the action constitutes an unlisted action under SEQR 617.2(al); and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Board is the agency with jurisdiction by law to fund, approve, or directly undertake this action, and therefore, a coordinated review of the action under SEQR is neither required nor necessary.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, New York:
1. Based upon the examination and consideration of the Long Environmental Assessment Form and comparison of the proposed action and criteria set forth at 617.7, no significant impact on the environment is known by the adoption of the proposed legislation.
2. The Supervisor for the Town of Watertown is authorized to execute the Long Environmental Assessment Form to the effect that the Town Board is issuing a “negative declaration” under SEQR.
3. A complete copy of the EAF including its negative declaration shall be maintained in the Town Clerk’s office in a file that will be readily accessible to the Public. All subsequent notices regarding the undertaking of the project as set forth in this Resolution shall state that a negative declaration has been issued.
4. This Resolution shall take effect immediately.
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: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky No
Councilman: Michael Perkins No
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #87-2025
Supervisor Bartlett moved to pay the following abstracts contingent upon a positive review of the bills being audited.
Utilities paid prior to the meeting
General Vouchers # 98 to 100 Total $ 9,575.94
Highway Vouchers # 97 to 97 Total $ 20,369.79
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 62 to 62 Total $ 10,770.09
Vouchers approved for monthly meeting
General Vouchers # 101 to 124 Total $ 30,392.53
Highway Vouchers # 98 to 112 Total $ 8,507.34
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 63 to 74 Total $ 192,295.90
Councilmember Prosser seconded the motion.
Ayes All
MOTION #88-2025
Supervisor Bartlett moved to adjourn to executive session at 8:30 pm concerning negotiations to the Teamster employee contract, Councilman Slye seconded.
Ayes All
The meeting was reconvened at 8:40 pm.
MOTION #89-2025
Approval of NYS Teamsters Contract
Supervisor Bartlett moved to accept the contract between the Town of Watertown and the New York State Teamsters Local 687 for the Town of Watertown Highway Bargaining Unit, under the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement. Motion seconded by Councilman Prosser.
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: Joel Bartlett Yes
Councilman: David Prosser Yes
Councilwoman: Joanne McClusky Yes
Councilman: Michael Perkins Yes
Councilman: Robert Slye Yes
MOTION #90-2025
Councilman Prosser moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:46 p.m., seconded by Supervisor Bartlett.
Ayes All
_____________________________
Pamela D. Desormo, Town Clerk