TOWN OF WATERTOWN
Regular Meeting
Municipal Building
March 12, 2026
Members Present: David D. Prosser, Councilman
Robert Slye, Councilman
Michael Perkins, Councilman
Members Absent: Joel R. Bartlett, Supervisor
Joanne McClusky, Councilwoman
Councilman Prosser 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 #46-2026
Councilman Prosser moved to adopt the minutes from the February 12, 2026 Regular and the February 26, 2026 Special Board Meetings. Councilman Perkins seconded.
Ayes All
Jeff Smith of Municipal Solutions addressed the Board regarding concerns about the Town’s financial reporting and accounting status.
Mr. Smith stated that Municipal Solutions has served as the Town’s municipal financial advisor for more than fifteen years and has worked with the Town through numerous infrastructure and development projects. Over that time, the Town has grown significantly and now faces more complex financial and administrative challenges, particularly related to large infrastructure projects and state and federal grant funding.
Mr. Smith noted that the Town has been very successful in securing grant funding, with funding packages that are among the strongest in New York State. However, he cautioned that grant funding often comes with significant administrative requirements and reporting obligations.
Mr. Smith expressed serious concern that the Town is currently three years delinquent in filing its Annual Financial Reports (AFRs) with the New York State Comptroller’s Office for fiscal years 2023, 2024, and 2025. He noted that although the 2023 report is ready for submission, there have been technical issues with certifying and filing it through the Comptroller’s online system. He noted the NYS Comptroller reported approximately 50% of municipalities in the state are not current with their financial reports.
It was reported during the discussion that steps had been taken to resolve the certification issue, which would bring the Town to two years behind once the 2023 report is filed.
Mr. Smith explained that the Town’s major funding agency, the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC), requires municipalities to be no more than one Annual Financial Report behind in order to close on loans and grant funding. As a result, the Town must complete and file the 2024 financial report as soon as possible in order to remain eligible for current funding programs.
Mr. Smith expressed particular concern regarding Water District No. 4, which includes approximately $4,650,000 in grant funding with a required closing deadline of September 2026. If the Town’s financial reports are not current, EFC will not allow the Town to close on the grant or related financing.
He noted that even once financial reports are submitted, it typically takes three to four months for EFC to complete the closing process, which significantly shortens the available timeframe to meet the deadline.
Mr. Smith also discussed the Town’s annual issuance of Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs), which are used to temporarily finance construction projects, equipment purchases, and infrastructure improvements until long-term financing is arranged. Historically, the Town has combined multiple projects into a single annual note issuance, which has been financially advantageous because short-term borrowing rates are typically lower than long-term bond rates.
However, he stated that the Town is currently having difficulty attracting investors to purchase its BANs due to the lack of current financial statements. As a result, investors have required higher interest rates. Mr. Smith estimated that over the past two years the Town has likely paid over $300,000 in additional interest costs due to the absence of up-to-date financial reporting.
Mr. Smith stated that in his opinion the Town has grown to the point where its financial administration can no longer reasonably be handled by a single individual. He noted that many municipalities of comparable size maintain multiple staff members dedicated to finance operations.
He suggested that the Town consider either:
- Hiring additional internal finance staff, or
- Contracting with an outside municipal accounting firm to assist with financial management and reporting.
Mr. Smith also recommended that the Town transition to a dedicated municipal accounting system, which would provide better financial reporting, internal controls, and monthly financial statements for the Board, including balance sheets and revenue/expenditure reports.
Mr. Smith noted that recruiting experienced municipal accounting professionals has become increasingly difficult statewide, with some municipalities offering salaries between $90,000 and $110,000 and still struggling to fill positions. In many cases, new hires require two years of training to become proficient in municipal accounting.
Mr. Smith informed the Board that he had identified a firm called Local Government Support Services, which specializes in assisting municipalities with accounting, financial reporting, and compliance issues. The firm has successfully assisted other municipalities such as the Village of Clayton and the Village of Alexandria Bay, both of which had previously been several years behind in financial reporting.
The firm was founded by Bob Fox, who now focuses exclusively on helping local governments improve their financial management systems.
Mr. Smith stated that the firm has successfully brought other municipalities up to date on their financial reports and could potentially assist the Town in doing the same. He estimated that bringing the Town’s financial records into compliance and establishing proper systems could cost approximately $70,000 to $75,000 initially, though the ongoing cost would likely be lower once the system is stabilized.
He emphasized that this investment could help the Town protect millions of dollars in grant funding and reduce borrowing costs.
Mr. Smith reiterated that the Town’s growth and success in securing funding have made its financial management more complex, and additional support will likely be necessary to keep up with reporting requirements and financial oversight.
Councilman Slye inquired about the need to establish a town tax.
Mr. Smith discussed the importance of establishing stronger financial stability for the Town, particularly given the uncertainty of the economy and the Town’s reliance on sales tax revenues.
He suggested that the Town consider implementing a modest real property tax to help establish a stable revenue base. Because sales tax revenues can fluctuate significantly depending on economic conditions, relying heavily on that revenue source makes long-term budgeting difficult. A small property tax could help provide consistency and improve the Town’s financial stability during economic downturns. This will also allow for investment opportunities with these funds.
Mr. Smith also discussed the possibility of establishing reserve funds to help the Town prepare for major infrastructure expenses. He noted that in water and sewer systems, municipalities often create reserve funds based on asset management plans developed by engineers. These plans identify major system components such as pumps, treatment equipment, and water towers and will estimate when they will need to be repaired or replaced.
For example, Mr. Smith noted that repainting a water tower can cost approximately $300,000. By planning ahead and contributing gradually to reserves, the Town could accumulate funds for large capital expenses or at least build a sufficient down payment for future projects.
Reserve funds can also be used to cover preliminary engineering reports and environmental studies, which are often required before municipalities can apply for state or federal grant funding. Having funds available for these initial studies allows the Town to pursue grant opportunities more quickly.
Mr. Smith explained that the Town could establish either restricted reserve funds or earmarked reserves created by Board resolution. While earmarked reserves are not as restrictive as formal reserve funds, they still indicate the Board’s intention to dedicate funds for specific purposes unless a future Board votes to change that designation.
He also recommended that the Town adopt a formal written fund balance policy. Such a policy would establish target fund balance levels for different funds, including the general fund, water funds, and sewer funds. The policy should also include procedures outlining how the Town would rebuild its fund balance if it falls below the established target levels.
Mr. Smith noted that a written fund balance policy can help explain to residents why the Town maintains certain reserve levels. It can also address concerns sometimes raised by the New York State Comptroller’s Office regarding municipalities that maintain fund balances above 15 percent. With a clearly documented policy explaining the Town’s financial planning and reserve needs, the Town can justify maintaining higher fund balances when appropriate.
Mr. Smith then addressed concerns regarding the financial performance of the Town’s water and sewer funds. He presented the Board with an amortization schedule for the town’s special district funds. He stated that revenues from these systems have not been sufficient to cover their expenses in recent years, resulting in operating deficits.
As of 2023, the water and sewer funds collectively owed the general fund approximately $2,242,000. Working with the Town Supervisor, repayment schedules were developed for each district to gradually repay those amounts to the general fund. Some of these repayment plans extend up to 30 years, and the balances will be repaid with 2 percent interest so that the general fund is compensated for the funds that were advanced.
However, Mr. Smith noted that if those funds had remained in the general fund, they could potentially earn 3.5 to 3.6 percent interests through investments, which represents additional lost revenue.
He emphasized that the Town should review its water and sewer rates to ensure that each district generates sufficient revenue to cover its own costs. Without adjustments, the current structure effectively requires the broader taxpayer base to subsidize the utility districts, which is not considered a sustainable long-term practice.
Mr. Smith emphasized that water resources will continue to be one of the most valuable assets for communities in the future. While some people may find the climate in the region challenging, he noted that the abundance of water resources in New York State will likely become increasingly important as other parts of the country face water shortages.
Mr. Smith stated that because of the growing importance of water infrastructure, municipalities must fully account for the true cost of providing water and sewer services. He explained that environmental regulations will continue to increase, including stricter limits on contaminants such as PFAS, which are expected to affect both drinking water and wastewater systems. As regulatory requirements expand, municipalities will need sufficient funding to comply with those mandates.
He stressed that the Town cannot continue relying on transfers from the general fund to support water and sewer operations. Instead, utility systems should be structured so that the users of those systems cover the true cost of providing the service.
Mr. Smith noted that bringing the Town’s financial systems and utility operations to a more stable position will likely take approximately five years. The process will require careful planning, financial adjustments, and ongoing public communication. While some residents may resist changes such as rate increases or policy adjustments, he stated that clearly explaining the reasons behind those decisions can help the public better understand the Town’s financial needs.
Mr. Smith also warned that municipalities should anticipate significant increases in energy costs, estimating that electric rates could rise by approximately 20 percent over the next three to four years. He attributed these increases in part to uncertainties surrounding the State’s long-term energy policies and the aging infrastructure of existing power plants.
To help address these financial pressures, Mr. Smith recommended that the Town develop multi-year financial projections, ideally covering a five-year period. These projections would allow the Town to analyze revenue and expenditure trends and determine the rate adjustments necessary to sustain water and sewer operations over time. If necessary, rate increases could be implemented gradually over several years rather than all at once.
During the discussion, Councilman Prosser asked about potential accounting systems designed specifically for municipalities, such as Williamson Law, which provides accounting and payroll software tailored to municipal reporting requirements. Mr. Smith noted that there are several municipal accounting programs available and that the accounting firm he recommended is familiar with multiple systems, including Williamson Law.
Mr. Smith also indicated that some of the costs associated with improving the Town’s accounting systems could potentially be included as eligible expenses within capital projects that receive grant funding, particularly through programs administered by the Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC). In many cases, those programs encourage municipalities to include accounting and financial management costs as part of project budgets to ensure proper financial oversight.
The Board also discussed the structure of the Town’s multiple water and sewer districts, noting that the Town currently has several separate districts. Mr. Smith explained that some municipalities eventually consider consolidating water districts after significant development has occurred. In such cases, existing debt remains with the original districts, but future improvements can be financed collectively, which can simplify accounting and spread infrastructure costs across a larger customer base.
He noted that in some community’s small districts with very few users can face significant financial challenges when infrastructure repairs are required, as the cost must be shared by only a small number of residents. Consolidation studies can help determine whether combining districts would provide long-term financial benefits, and grant funding may be available to support such studies.
Mr. Smith concluded by stating that his purpose was to provide the Board with an overview of the financial challenges and potential solutions facing the Town. He recommended that the Board consider contacting the accounting firm previously mentioned to discuss possible assistance in bringing the Town’s financial reporting up to date and implementing improved financial systems.
When asked whether any immediate action was required that evening, Mr. Smith indicated that no action was necessary at that time, but he encouraged the Board to begin discussions with the recommended accounting professionals as soon as possible.
MOTION #47-2026
WHEREAS, the Town of Watertown is in receipt of a request of occupancy tax (bed tax) revenues. Money to assist the DPAO with promotional expenses associated with the 2026 summer concert series. A series of concerts the organization produces that attracts thousands of travelers and tourists to the area generating much needed revenues to the area businesses; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Watertown has for many years contributed grant funds to support the DPAO. Promotional expenses for the summer concert series in funds are included with the Fiscal Year 2026 for said purposes.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town of Watertown Council hereby authorizes a grant of bed tax revenue in community development revenues in the amount of $15,000.
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was offered by Councilmember Prosser seconded by Councilmember Perkins.
Discussion took place. Councilman Slye expressed concern about approving expenditures without having current financial statements available to determine the Town’s financial position.
Upon a roll call vote of the Board as follows:
Supervisor Joel Bartlett Absent
Councilman Prosser Yes
Councilwoman McClusky Absent
Councilman Perkins No
Councilman Slye No
MOTION #48-2026
Councilman Prosser moved to pay the following abstracts as audited.
Utilities paid prior to the meeting
General Vouchers # 39 to 41 Total $ 13,974.54
Highway Vouchers # 38 to 38 Total $ 33,137.47
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 25 to 25 Total $ 13,717.44
Vouchers approved for monthly meeting
General Vouchers # 42 to 62 Total $ 41,742.29
Highway Vouchers # 39 to 54 Total $ 56,829.32
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 26 to 34 Total $ 170,685.57
Councilmember Slye seconded the motion.
Ayes All
Pat Scordo, GYMO updated the Board on Northeast Water District No. 7
- Public Information Session for easement signing on March 4, 2026.
EASEMENT SUMMARY UPDATE
Total Signed
Forced Main and Water service 72 43
Force Main Only 4 1
Water Service Only 68 30
- Department of Ag & Markets issues still need to be resolved for six parcels in Water District:
- 8-year window to “recertify” Ag District boundaries.
- Smith property owner doesn’t want lateral restrictions (Town Attorney communicating with Smith Attorney.)
- Can parcels in Ag District be pulled out of the Water District?
- Town meet with Political Representatives.
- Amendment No. 3 prepared for Additional Engineering Services; (Water Booster Pumping Station, Easement Mapping, two Additional Prime Contracts, and Dept. of Ag and Markets coordination.)
UPDATED PROJECT COST BUDGET
Administrative $225,000
Technical Services $998,000 (12.5%)
Construction $6,145,000
Contingency $717,000 (9.0%)
Total $8,085,000($5M Grant and 3.085M 30-yr Loan @ 0%)
Discussion continued regarding the status of the water district project and the ongoing effort to obtain the required easements.
It was noted that progress has been slow and challenging, with some opposition from residents on Hunt Street who reside in the Town but are currently connected to a City water main. It was stated that the City Engineer would be contacted to determine whether an outside user agreement exists for those properties. It was explained that in some cases such agreements require property owners to connect to a Town water district if one becomes available.
It was also discussed that some residents may believe they are operating without an outside user agreement, possibly because the arrangements have existed for many years and have been passed from owner to owner.
Mr. Scordo suggested the Board might consider forming a committee to go door-to-door to speak with residents and encourage them to sign the required easements. It was suggested that individuals who have been supportive of the project and have attended meetings regularly could potentially serve as spokespersons to help explain the benefits of the project and promote a positive message within the community.
He reported that the Town currently has approximately 55% of the required easements, and additional participation will be needed to proceed.
Another option discussed was reviewing potential alternative routing of the water main to avoid properties where easements are unlikely to be granted. However, it was noted that this could be difficult, particularly along a state highway, because the project would need to remain on private property and road crossings may be limited.
Discussion also continued regarding the involvement of the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Attorney Harrienger reported that ongoing conversations with the attorney representing the affected property owners have not yet resulted in a resolution. A possible alternative solution is being explored with the property owner.
Mr. Scordo noted that the Town could respond formally to Agriculture and Markets if necessary, providing a detailed explanation of why the Town believes the project should not fall under certain restrictions. It was suggested that a draft response could be prepared and reviewed by the Town Attorney before submission.
Councilman Prosser inquired about the possibility of involving the County Health Department to determine whether any wells in the area have documented water quality concerns. However, it was noted that some property owners in the area have already invested in improvements to their private wells, including additional filtration and treatment systems.
It was also noted that Supervisor Bartlett had considered contacting elected officials for assistance regarding the Agriculture and Markets concerns; no new information on that was available.
The Board reviewed Proposed Amendment No. 3 related to the engineering contract with Water District 7. The amendment included four items of additional engineering work associated with the project. Updated budget information was provided, including a summary of administrative costs, technical fees, and construction contingency amounts.
Due to the limited number of Board members present, it was suggested that the Board take additional time to review the amendment before making a decision.
The Board agreed to table the amendment until additional members were present and further review could be completed.
Mr. Altieri, BCA updated the Board on town projects. He provided an update on Water District 4. He echoed the comments made by Mr. Smith regarding financial considerations, noting that while there are some questions, the available funds will be sufficient to complete the project. He reported that the project received favorable bids and, although the Tank Aeration bid of the system had minor disappointments, the total cost remains well under budget.
He noted that the Town has a CDBG grant available, which is preferred for initial project funding as it is 100% grant-funded. After the grant funds are utilized, additional Town funds may be needed, particularly since the 2024 Annual Financial Report must be completed to facilitate access to other financing.
He also noted that borrowing has been included in the current year’s budget as a backstop to support cash flow, given that disbursements from some funding agencies, particularly CDBG, can be slow. This ensures the Town can cover costs as they arise and be reimbursed accordingly.
Overall, Mr. Altieri indicated that the project is progressing well and that efforts will continue to provide water to the affected residents. He also shared positive news from the Department of Transportation regarding issuing their permit, which were ready for signatures.
MOTION #49-2026
Councilman Prosser offered a motion to accept and authorize the bid for the Extension of Water District #4 for Contract No. 2 – Tank Aeration System in the amount of $565,000.00, to Powis Contracting. The motion was seconded by Councilman Slye.
Supervisor Joel Bartlett Absent
David Prosser Yes
Joanne McClusky Absent
Michael Perkins Yes
Robert Slye Yes
PROJECTS IN CONSTRUCTION
Water District No. 4 Extension (Northland Estates/Pine Meadows)
Construction Budget: $6,400,790.00 (Orig. 7,250,000.00)
Administrative and Technical Costs: $1,709,500.00
Contingency: $1,889,710.00
Total Project Cost: $10,000,000.00
Total Grant Funding (WIIA and CDBG): $ 6,250,000.00
Project Bid Results:
Contract No. 1 – Pipeline Construction $ 5,790,920.00 – JL Excavation
Contract No. 2 – Tank Aeration System $565,000.00 – Powis Contracting Inc.
Contract No. 3 – Electrical Construction $ 44,870.00 – Blackstone Electric
Projected Construction Substantial Completion Date: December 2026
Project Update –Construction is posed to commence in late March/Early April. A preconstruction meeting is currently in the process of being scheduled with all parties. The NYS DOT Permit has been approved and signature pages are ready for the Town Supervisor. Final easements are in the process of being secured. Work will likely commence within the mobile home parks first.
Councilman Prosser stated that he could sign item in his capacity as Deputy Supervisor, with specific delegation from the Town Board to sign documents and checks on behalf of the Town.
SPECIAL NOTE ON OUTSTANDING TOWN AFRs:
For all projects funded in the Town by EFC, including WD#4 Extension and SD#1 Improvements, EFC 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.
Councilman Perkins left the meeting at 8:00 p.m. No further action was taken by the Board; the meeting remained open to the public for discussion purposes.
Town wide Sewer (Districts 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) I & l and Pipeline Improvements
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. Lawman has indicated that construction on this project could progress this April once all project documentation has been agreed to and executed.
Project Bid Results:
Contract No. 1 – Pipeline Construction $ 376,818.00 – Lawman Heating and Cooling
PROJECTS IN DESIGN
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 has received an amended Consent Order has been sent to the Town from NYS DEC. The Town continues to roll forward with the grant closing for both the WQIP and GIGP grants received. Comments have been received on the UV Design from NYS DEC and are being addressed. The status of the proposed piloting is under discussion with NYSDEC.
Sewer District No. 1 Revised Schedule Per NYS DEC Amended Consent Order:
NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
Respondent: Town of Watertown
No. R6-20190315-07A
SCHEDULE A
The above-referenced Respondent shall, on or before the dates indicated:
REQUIRED ACTION
- Submit approvable Final Basis of Design, Plans, Specifications, and a Construction Schedule for the implementation of the recommended disinfection system, wastewater treatment system, and storm water collection system improvements. The design documents shall clearly include Respondent’s preferred alternatives and include a schedule for implementation of the corrective actions, which shall become and enforceable part of this First Amended Order. The schedule shall incorporate, at a minimum, the due dates in this First Amended Order.
Due Date: On or before October 1, 2026
- Submit a written P.E. Certificate of Construction Completion for the disinfection system.
Due Date: On or before April 15, 2027
- Submit a written P.E. Certificate of Construction Completion for the wastewater treatment system and storm water collection system improvements.
Due Date: On or before December 30, 2027
PROJECTS IN DEVELOPMENT
Sewer District 4, 5 and 6 Engineering Planning Grant Study – The EPG is in the stages of grant closure with NYS EFC. This study will examine additional upgrades that may need to be undertaken related to these districts.
Water Districts 3, 4 and 5 – A combination of aging infrastructure and issues on the horizon will necessitate upgrades and potential consolidation of these districts, particularly for the ground tank serving WD 5.
Stormwater WQIP Grant – As an MS4 the Town will likely be eligible to apply for a vacuum truck to assist the Highway Department in maintaining the storm water system. The application period will likely open in May.
The floor was opened for public comment:
William Pfaff, NYS Rte. 232 asked where the water service connection from NYS Rte. 232 to the trailer park on US Rte 11 was going and whether the property owner had been notified. It was clarified that the planned route will go through the Hodge property, and that drawings have been provided to the property owners.
It was noted that conversations had already taken place with Mr. Dodge Sr. last fall, and the company has coordinated with him regarding the project. The water main will be bored under the creek to avoid disturbing certain areas, and adjustments were made to minimize impact on adjacent properties.
Joe Meyer, Co. Rte. 60 raised a concern regarding grant funding for the DPAO, noting that they canceled their concert series last year. He stated that providing grant money to the organization under these circumstances may no longer be beneficial.
Mr. Meyer also questioned the potential conflict of interest involving Councilman Prosser voting on resolutions related to the water district near Route 126, as he would personally benefit from the project.
Attorney Harrienger responded that the matter is largely academic, as the other Board members had all voted in favor of the resolutions. She also noted that he had consulted prior legal guidance and multiple opinions from Comptrollers reports that indicate that a Board member may vote on matters benefiting them indirectly, as the benefits extend to the larger population within the district.
Mr. Meyer reiterated that, from an outside perspective, it could appear as a conflict of interest, but acknowledged the legal guidance provided.
Councilman Prosser added that he had sought guidance from the prior Town Attorney before voting on the water district. He was advised that, because the benefits of the project extend to the larger population, it was permissible for him to vote.
Further discussion addressed the allocation of funds for a proposed connector road (NYS Rte. 3). He addressed and article that stated the road would be funded with $25,000 from ARPA, $25,000 from the developer, and $100,000 from CHIPS funding.
Attorney Harrienger and Highway Supervisor Clement clarified that no CHIPS funds would be used for the construction of the connector road. CHIPS funding is designated for maintaining existing roads and cannot be applied to new road construction.
Mr. Meyer expressed concern regarding the use of public funds for projects that appear to primarily benefit private development, questioning how such expenditures align with broader public interests, particularly in light of discussions about implementing a real property tax and the financial report presented by Mr. Smith at tonight’s meeting.
Julie Gayne, Swan Road addressed the Board and raised several questions and concerns following Mr. Smith’s presentation. She asked when Municipal Solutions first notified the Town Council that delinquent financial statements were a significant source of cost to the Town and emphasized the importance of bringing these statements current to prevent recurring additional expenses.
Mrs. Gayne expressed concern about whether the Town Council had been adequately informed if higher-cost bond issues were approved due to incomplete financial information, noting that consultants and financial advisors should report to the full Board and not solely to the Town Supervisor.
She also inquired about the accounting software that would be used by any proposed outside firm, including whether it is proprietary or widely available, stressing that reliance on proprietary software could limit future flexibility. Discussion noted that programs such as Wilson Law are commercially available, and information on other municipalities use of software and their satisfaction should be obtained.
Councilman Prosser stated there might be resources for that information from the Association of Towns.
Mrs. Gayne further requested information on the Town’s current long-term debt, including a schedule of all outstanding debt and the interest rates being incurred, as well as opportunities for refinancing in a changing market.
Finally, she noted that approximately $2.2 million is owed to the General Fund from the Water and Sewer funds, which represent the Town’s reserves. She emphasized that these reserves should have been monitored and reported earlier, and that proper accounting of these funds is essential for maintaining capital and equipment reserves and ensuring that the General Fund operates effectively.
Highway Superintendent Clement gave a report to the Board:
Superintendent Clement provided an update on several Highway Department matters. He noted that the Town is considering hiring Mike McDonald for a mechanic’s position. Mr. McDonald indicated that the offered rate of $31 per hour was insufficient and requested $33 per hour. Superintendent Clement asked the Board to consider this before moving forward with hiring; noting that no action could be taken at tonight’s meeting.
He also addressed concerns regarding the use of funds for a proposed driveway connector road off NYS Rte. 3. He reported that Jared Radley from the NYSDOT CHIPS program contacted him in response to an article concerning CHIPS funds. He wanted to clarify that CHIPS funding are designated for maintenance and repair of existing roads and cannot be used for new road construction. He emphasized that the allocation of such funds is the responsibility of the Highway Superintendent.
Superintendent Clement raised an ongoing issue on Hickory Lane, where a water line has washed out for the third time. He expressed concern that this pressing infrastructure problem has not received sufficient attention compared to other projects, such as the connector road.
Finally, Mr. Clement reported that a plow truck from Viking is currently in the shop and expected to be completed by the end of April.
The floor was closed to the public.
Councilman Slye commented that he has repeatedly requested updated accounting reports, noting that the most recent report he has is from November 2022. He emphasized the importance of having current financial reporting in order for the Board to move forward with decision-making.
Councilman Prosser moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:25 pm.
_____________________________
Pamela D. Desormo, Town Clerk