TOWN OF WATERTOWN
Rescheduled Regular Meeting
Municipal Building
November 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 #137-2025
Supervisor Bartlett moved to adopt the minutes from the October 2, 2025 Regular Board Meeting, Councilman Prosser seconded.
Ayes All
MOTION #138-2025
Supervisor Bartlett moved to adopt the minutes from the October 22, 2025 Special Board Meeting, Councilman Prosser seconded.
Ayes All
Supervisor Bartlett opened the public hearing at 7:05 pm concerning the Proposed 2026 Budget.
Kathleen Eves inquired about the status of discussions made at a previous meeting regarding adoption of new accounting software.
Supervisor Bartlett reported that no decisions have been made and that the town’s accountant is currently behind with reporting but is expected to be fully reconciled by year-end. Accounting services are provided by Crawley & Halloran.
Mrs. Eves asked about the Supervisor’s Clerks duties and salary.
Supervisor Bartlett stated that the clerk handles administrative tasks including phone calls, errands, and delivery of paperwork.
Mrs. Eves questioned the Highway Department’s health-insurance line and the projected $76,000 decrease in the Proposed 2026 Budget.
Supervisor Bartlett stated that due to the decreased staffing there was a saving in that area. Should costs exceed projections, transfers may be made from the unappropriated fund balance.
Mrs. Eves raised ongoing concerns regarding payroll reporting, health-insurance administration, and New York State and Local Retirement System (NYSLRS) reporting. She referenced a 2020 service-credit issue affecting her husband (Matt Eves) and stated that NYSLRS indicated the matter had not been fully corrected. She noted that service credit had previously been reported as 0.81 years and later adjusted to 0.88 years, not a full year. She also stated that submission of an RS-250 correction form is required and that similar issues may affect multiple employees.
Supervisor Bartlett stated that NYSLRS had informed him in a letter that corrections were made in September. The Supervisor said he cannot control NYSLRS billing but agreed to review the documents submitted for corrective action. He noted that such matters are typically addressed through scheduled meetings involving his office, the employee, union representative, and the Teamsters business agent.
Matt. Eves stated he attempted to resolve the matter privately before speaking at public meetings.
Kevin Stevens, highway employee, stated that union dues and other deductions are inconsistent. Employees cannot reliably predict when deductions will occur making it hard to budget their personal finances. Paychecks frequently differ by significant amounts, making it difficult for employees to confirm whether regular hours, overtime hours, and deductions are correct. He emphasized that receiving accurate paychecks should be simple and consistent.
Supervisor Bartlett responded he would do his best to get things straightened out to prevent further issues.
Adam Brown, 25593 East Gotham Road, stated that he reviewed the budget and observed a 15% increase in the Fire Department appropriation. He expressed frustration, referring to past issues involving the fire district rate hikes. He asked what taxpayers are receiving for a 15% increase, and what legal or procedural recourse the town board or taxpayers have regarding the fire district’s spending.
Supervisor Bartlett explained the Town has no authority over the Fire District’s budget. The Fire District is an independent taxing authority with its own board of fire commissioners. The Town’s only involvement is to submit the fire district’s budget to the County along with the town’s budget; the Town cannot modify or reject it. The most effective action is for residents to attend fire district meetings and get informed of the actions being taken.
Joe Meyer, County Route 60, questioned why the Town would use federal funds which could be allocated elsewhere in the budget to assist a private developer by building a road that would serve only three potential lots off of NYS Rte 3.
Supervisor Bartlett explained it would be private money and American Recovery Act money that would fund the construction of the road. No CHIPS money will be used for it. The money allocated in this budget will go for other roads in the town that are in need of repair.
Rob Gayne, Swan Road, asked how much money was being appropriated for the construction of the road off NYS Rte. 3.
Supervisor Bartlett responded that $100,000 has been allocated for this portion of the road, sourced from: American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds: $75,000 and donation from the property owner: $25,000.
Superintendent Clement stated that the Jefferson County Highway Superintendent as well as the NYS DOT does not support the proposed connection road. He indicated that he personally does not agree with the plan, but if the Town Board directs its construction, he will build the road. Superintendent Clement emphasized that he believes the funds would be better allocated to other town roads that provide greater benefit to the town’s taxpayers. He feels it sets a precedent for other developers to expect the same treatment.
Discussion took place concerning the location, cost and anticipated construction schedule of this road.
Mr. Meyer inquired about the status of water service on Co. Rte. 60 (Floral Drive), stating that he has been requesting water for several years.
Supervisor Bartlett responded that the Town has not forgotten the issue. He explained that if any funds remain at the completion of the current project, the Town would dedicate those funds toward a map, plan, and report to be prepared by the Town’s engineer.
Mr. Green, VanAllen Road South inquired about the Rescue Squad budget, He noted a 25% increase to $200,000. He acknowledged it is a valuable resource but asked whether it was a 501(c), or if the squad’s accounts receivable and accounts payable had been reviewed to justify the increase.
Mr. Green also asked for clarification regarding projected Rte. 3 road-related costs. He asked whether the budgeted figures represent material costs only, or if they include labor, equipment, and all associated expenses when the town performs the work versus contracting it out.
Supervisor Bartlett clarified that if the Town performs the work, the associated costs including labor and equipment would be included in the projected figure.
Mr. Green concluded by acknowledging the hard work of the Town employees.
Julie Gayne, Swan Road had questions regarding the town budget and requested clarification to better understand the figures. She suggested that future budget documents should include a column showing the 2025 original budget in addition to the 2024 actual and 2025 modified budget. This would provide a clearer view of changes and help prevent misconceptions about adjustments between years.
Mrs. Gayne then asked about projected revenues, noting that the majority of revenues are expected to decrease. She requested an explanation for this anticipated decline.
Supervisor Bartlett explained that the overall projected decrease of approximately 4.5% (roughly $40,000) is due primarily to sales tax revenue, which is a key funding source. He emphasized that the Town intentionally estimates conservatively.
Mrs. Gayne further asked about changes between the 2024 and 2025 budgets and predictions for 2026. She has not been able to fully review recommendations due to incomplete year-to-date information for 2025. She emphasized that actual 2025 revenue figures are a significant factor in predicting the 2026 budget. She stressed that without timely and accurate information, it is difficult to make informed budgeting decisions or justify a tax levy.
Supervisor Bartlett agreed but difficulties in providing precise year-to-date figures for 2025 due to a transition in accounting services after the Town’s previous accountants ceased providing municipal accounting services. He is working with the new accountant to provide the necessary information, aiming to have the 2025 spending figures finalized by the last week in December. He acknowledged, however, that this timeline is later than ideal, as budget decisions for future years should be based on up-to-date data.
Councilwoman McClusky recommended reinstating monthly financial reports from the accountants, allowing the board member to access the information at any time.
Mrs. Gayne inquired about the appropriate use of federal funds for town projects. She suggested that the Board carefully consider whether proposed projects represent the best use of these funds and noted that motions could be rescinded or adjusted if a less expensive option is available.
She recommended using available federal funds for one-time expenses, such as equipment purchases, and suggested creating a line item in the budget for an equipment reserve to allow for future planned purchases. This approach, she noted, would reduce the immediate impact on the tax levy while benefiting the entire town rather than a specific area.
Mrs. Gayne emphasized considering the cumulative effect on taxpayers when proposing multiple projects and noted that careful planning could help maintain public support. She highlighted the importance of a multi-year financial plan and cautioned that it is unlikely a significant tax levy could be mitigated in the following year due to ongoing expenditures and a limited fund balance.
She concluded by stating that the goal is to manage the tax levy at a more sustainable level that town residents can support.
Mr. Green, a former employee for the City of Watertown, addressed the Board regarding available state funding for road improvements. He noted that the Town had $120,212.84 available last year, and $132,206.96 projected for 2026, through the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) from the New York State Department of Transportation. He emphasized that this funding is substantial and can be applied to Town roads with the proper paperwork.
Supervisor Bartlett noted that these funds were reflected in the Town budget, and pointed out that the line item labeled “Consolidated Highway Improvements” corresponds to CHIPS funding. He acknowledged that Mr. Clement manages these funds for the Town.
Mr. Meyer raised a concern regarding the proposed new road project, stating that it may create a hazardous intersection near Sam’s Club. He cautioned that the project could trade one problematic intersection for another, potentially increasing traffic safety risks.
Councilman Slye spoke regarding payroll processing and employee concerns. He explained that the Town could improve payroll accuracy and reporting by purchasing a municipal payroll software program from The Williamson Law Book Company, which would automate payroll, W-2 forms, wage tax and retirement reports, payroll certification, and reconciliation reports. He noted that the program costs approximately $20,000 and emphasized that it would ensure employees are paid correctly and timely, independent of union issues.
He recommended that the Town allocate $20,000 in the budget to purchase and implement the program and train a responsible staff member to manage it.
Additionally, he suggested hiring Nicole Millsap at $25 per hour, plus mileage, to meet individually with union members and address any payroll concerns. He proposed that a Town Board member be present during these meetings to help resolve outstanding issues and ensure transparency, prevent future payroll issues and ensure employees are paid correctly.
MOTION #139-2025
Councilman Slye moved that $20,000 be added to the 2026 Budget for the purchase and implementation of the Williamson Municipal Payroll Program. Also to include Additional funds be allocated to hire Nicole Millsap to assist with individual payroll issues for each employee and hire someone preferably in-house to be trained and take over the payroll process, seconded by Councilman Perkins.
The board members discussed the scope of the program and associated training. It was clarified that the $25/hour rate for Nicole Millsap is for assisting in sorting out immediate payroll issues, separate from the program purchase. Training on how to use the program is included in the program. It was suggested that Ms. Sentell could take on the program responsibilities as a part-time assignment outside regular hours.
Supervisor Bartlett noted that a proposal from another company, offering similar payroll services, would be received next week. Preliminary indications suggest it may be slightly less expensive than Williamson, though a full comparison has not yet been completed.
A vote was taken as follows:
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins yes
Councilman Slye yes
Councilman Slye inquired about the status of the Town’s audits, noting that the previous accounting firm had been replaced and asking when the last audit was completed. He emphasized the importance of conducting an audit to establish a clear starting point for financial oversight and to understand the current fiscal position.
Supervisor Bartlett responded that it may be appropriate to wait until the close of the fiscal year to conduct an audit, at which point monthly financial reports will be available and required for the audit process. He noted that scheduling audits can take six to ten months due to demand from other municipalities, school districts, and fire departments.
No one else wished to speak; the public hearing on the Preliminary 2026 Budget was closed at 7:45 pm.
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 at this time
Estimated Completion Date: December 2025 (anticipated)
Project Status – Construction is being finalized adjacent to Sam’s Club.
Council Prosser asked if this water line took in the area to the proposed connection road.
Mr. Altieri stated that he had not been directed to initiate the DOT permit process for the adjacent component or for the water-main portion of the project. He noted that commencing such work would require formal action by the Board.
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 (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 Advertisement Date: November 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. This project is anticipated to bid on or around November 18th with a bid opening on or around December 18th.
They are currently updating the final easement documents, and receiving signed easements. They have also spoken with all affected property owners to inform them of the timeline.
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. It will be imperative for these AFRs to be completed to move these projects forward.
Supervisor Bartlett responded he is working with the accounts and those reports should be available soon.
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, NYS DEC WIP – $ 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 we await final DEC approval to commence piloting. The DEC is reviewing a consent order/SPDES compliance extension letter to revise the project schedule (Please note piloting schedule shift below).
Sewer District No. 1 Revised Schedule (WWTF Project Phase):
Piloting and Replacement of RBCs:
Design Start: March 2025
Begin Piloting Program: December 2025
End Piloting Program (Tentative Based on Pilot Data): May 2026
Initial Design Submission (Based on initial pilot data): November 2025
Final Design Submission (Based on final pilot data): February 2025
NYS DEC Review and Approval: April 2026
Begin Construction: July 2026
Complete Construction: December 2027
UV Disinfection:
Design Start: March 2025
Design Submission November 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: December 2025
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 I & 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 anticipated to bid on or around November 18 with a bid opening on or around December 18, 2025.
Councilman Prosser inquired whether the metering at Northland Trailer Park would result in one consolidated bill for the park or individual billing for each resident. He stated that a single bill would be preferable for the sake of efficiency and to reduce the workload in the clerk’s office.
Mr. Altieri responded the system is structured for individual metering for each resident. The challenge they are facing is that they need to feed water into those parks from both directions to maintain water quality and avoid pollutant issues. While it can be done with just two meters, it would require a significant amount of algorithmic work to accurately determine how much water is actually being used. The details will still need to be decided.
Pat Scordo, GYMO approached the Board with the district report summaries:
Northeast Water District No. 7
- Resubmit revised plans to NYS DOT on 10/25/2025
- Revising plans addressing NYS DOH plan review comments
- Department of Agriculture and Markets issued correspondence dated 10/30/2025 (on file in the Clerk’s Office) 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.
- Town attorney prepared an order for setting a Public Hearing in December to inform residents of the cost increase per EDU, as presented at the August Public Info Session.
EASEMENT SUMMARY TABLE
Total Signed
Force Main and Water Service 72 37
Force Main Only 5 1
Water Service Only 68 29
- At the December Public Hearing, Engineer work stations 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.
Lettiere/Southside Water
- Currently researching detailed topics and revising the Engineering Report to address key insight provided by Town Attorney.
- Refer to attached correspondence from Jim Lettiere regarding Southside Water and the Rate Case Filing 24-W-0420
APPRAISAL AND SOUTHSIDE WEBSITE DATA
Basic Information
- There are one hundred nineteen (119) customers.
- The system is comprised of:
- 7,085 Feet of 6-inch Asbestos Cement Water Main and 2,210 Feet of 8-inch Asbestos Cement Water Main built 1958-1966.
- 708 Feet of 6-inch Ductile Iron Water Main and 2,730 Feet of 8-inch Ductile Iron Water Main built in 1986-2009.
- -3,080 Feet of Copper Laterals (110 total) and 240 Feet of HDPE/Pex Laterals (10 total).
- -Includes six (6) hydrants, thirty-five (35) 6-inch and 8-inch valves, three (3) blow-offs, and one (1) master meter pit.
- Assessed Value: $162,500.
*The NYS Department of Health requires that you must be an Asbestos Certified Contractor to work on the Asbestos Cement Water Mains.
Appraisals
- 2023 Colliers: $610,000 weighted: Replacement Cost Approach: $1.44 Million –
$808,000 depreciation = $632,000. Also used Income Capitalization Approach using $33,216 profit and 6% = $554,000.
- 2011 Arrow: $390,000. Replacement Cost Approach: $808,000 – $418,000 depreciation = $390,000. Did not use the Income Capitalization Approach because income and expense reports were unavailable.
Average Southside Figures
- Average Pass-Through Water = 16,014 Gallons Per Day. City Purchase Price = $3.66/100 Cubic Feet. Average Annual Price Paid to City for Water = $27,500. (2023 Water Quality Report (WQR)).
- Average Water Sold = 13,938 Gallons Per Day. Thus, loss of water from leaks, flushing hydrants, and firefighting is 2,076 Gallons Per Day (13%). 2023 WQR.
- *Similar results/data in 2024 WQR.
- *Under the October 20, 2025, Public Service Commission Increase, the new quarterly cost of water to residents: First 1,000 CF = $173.33 + $11.32/100 CF over the 1,000 CF. At 175 Gallons Per Day = $14.15/100 CF; 175 Gallons Per Day – $1,208/Year. (PSC Correspondence),
- Average Annual Revenue of Southside Water = $91,230. *(Colliers Appraisal)
- Average Annual Southside Water System Expenses = $58,014; considers payment of Taxes • plus $10,000 +/- allotment for a pickup truck. *(Colliers Appraisal).
- Average Annual Southside Water System Profit = $33,216; could increase by $15,000 to
$48,216 if tax bills are forgiven and truck allotment is dropped. *(Colliers Appraisal).
Life Expectancy
- Life expectancy of the 6-inch and 8-inch Water Mains is forty (40) to sixty (60) years. *There are documented cases of water line use beyond eighty (80) years.
- City of Watertown has AC Pipes dating back to 1958.
- Village of Adams has AC Pipes dating back to 1960.
- Village of Canton has piping dating back to 1948.
- Town of Tupper Lake has piping dating back to 1922.
- 2023 Appraisals estimated that the “effective age” of the water system is 25%-35% less; at 30% = 67 years to 47 years. *This “effective age” technique was discussed with Colliers, and they stated this is a viable tool they use to consider ages of infrastructure since amount of use is a significant contributor.
- *New York Finance Law Section 11.00 states useful life of water systems is 40 years.
Reported Southside Water Main Leaks
- Five Reported Leaks on Birch Lane from 2016-2012. Longitudinal cracks resultant from pressure stress or loss of structural integrity through a process called leaching. Leaching is when calcium in the pipe cement is absorbed into the soil.
- *Two reported leaks on Birch Lane in August 2025. Leaks were from longitudinal cracks in the pipe.
*Public Service Commission (PSC)
- PCS will be involved with the potential sale of Southside Water, Inc.
- PCS Case 24-W-0420 pertaining to the rate increase for Southside Water indicates that the rate increase is necessary to cover current and projected operating costs and required capital expenditures, including a main replacement plan to replace aging pipes.
- Borrow $675,000 ($500,000 purchase price + $175,000 soft cost and repair allowance) @ 3.44% for 10 years.
- Cost of water at 175 gpd and $6.00/unit = $8.02/1000 gallons = $512/year.
- Total costs with Prime, LLC Property, Ad Valorem District = $1,180.
- Total costs without Prime, LLC Property, Ad Valorem District = $1,186.
- Total costs with Prime, LLC Property, EDU District = $1,165.
- Total costs without Prime, LLC Property, EDU District = $1,167.
- Notes:
- Each alternative is over the 2025 NYS Office of State Comptroller (OSC) threshold of $1,101 for the cost an EDU pays annually in a Water District. Therefore, OSC approval is required, which historically is a process lasting over 12 months.
- If the Ad Valorem or EDU District with the Prime, LLC property is the selected option an if that property is developed, yes the capital portion of the costs may decrease, but because pipeline flows will increase, additional water line flushing may be required for Disinfection – By – Product removal plus the potential for pipeline leaching and longitudinal cracks in the Asbestos – Cement pipe increases.
The Town Board discussed adjustments to the 2026 Preliminary Budget.
Supervisor Bartlett directed that, from this point forward, all information or business intended for the Board’s consideration must be submitted to the Clerk’s Office or to his desk at least one week prior to the scheduled Board meeting. He acknowledged that both offices have been very busy, but noted that receiving materials at the last minute creates unnecessary difficulties in assembling the meeting packets.
He emphasized that any items such as resolutions, purchase proposals, contracts, engineer submissions or other business requiring Board review must be submitted one week in advance. This will make the process more manageable for both himself and the Clerk, as last-minute submissions result in separate packets that do not align.
Supervisor Bartlett accepted the Town Clerk’s Report.
MOTIONS/RESOLUTIONS
MOTION #140-2025
RESOLUTION #17 of 2025 AND ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD
OF THE TOWN OF WATERTOWN
PURSUANT TO NY TOWN LAW
WHEREAS, by Order of this Board dated September 8, 2022, a public hearing was scheduled to consider the formation of Northeastern Water District (Water District No. 7) within the Town of Watertown, pursuant to a certain Amended Map, Plan and Report filed with the Town Clerk and which is incorporated by reference; and
WHEREAS, the Order scheduling the public hearing was duly posted, uploaded to the Town’s website and published as required by law and the public hearing was opened on October 13, 2022; and
WHEREAS, following the public hearing held on October 13, 2022, an updated engineering map, plan, and report was presented to the Town Board, and the Town Board accepted the updated engineering map, plan, and report on December 8, 2022; and
WHEREAS, by Order dated December 8, 2022, the Town Board scheduled a public hearing to be held on December 29, 2022; and
WHEREAS, the public hearing was opened on December 29, 2022, and held open through January 12, 2023; and
WHEREAS, a Negative Declaration was confirmed by the Town Board via resolution on January 12, 2023; and
WHEREAS, Water District No. 7 was formed on January 12, 2023; and
WHEREAS, Town residents then approached the Board and sought the boundaries of the District to include their respective homes on Rutland Hollow Road and Hadcock Road, and the Town Board instructed GYMO to update the engineering map, plan, and report to consider the costs which would result from increasing the boundaries; and
WHEREAS, following acceptance of the amended engineering map, plan, and report, updated SEQR Parts I, II, and III were completed by the Town Board on May 11, 2023; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board adopted a Bond Resolution for the Water District No. 7 project on February 8, 2024 in the amount of $8,085,000.00; and
WHEREAS, at the time the Bond Resolution was adopted, the projected EDU for the project was $911.00; and
WHEREAS, 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; and
WHEREAS, 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 has determined that a public hearing should be held for the purpose of hearing public comments on the increase in costs per EDU.
NOW THEREFORE, on motion duly made and seconded, this Board makes the following determinations, and
IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED AND ORDERED:
ORDERED, that a Public Hearing be held on the 11day of December 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at the Town of Watertown Municipal Building located at 22867 Brookside Drive, Watertown, New York to hear all person(s) 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 be uploaded on the Town of Watertown’s website.
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 yes
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #141-2025
RESOLUTION #18 of 2025
APPROVING ADVERTISMENT FOR BIDS
(WATER DISTRICT NO. 4 EXTENSION)
WHEREAS, it is necessary to solicit for sealed bids for work relative to the Town of Watertown Water District No. 4 Extension; and
WHEREAS, the Town will accept sealed bids via the Town Clerk’s Office beginning on November 18, 2025 until December 18, 2025 at 3:00 PM; and
WHEREAS, all sealed bids will be reviewed for compliance with the General Municipal Law (competitive bid requirements) and the bid winner will be awarded to the most responsive and responsible bidder at the Town Board meeting next following the end of the thirty-day bid window.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Clerk is hereby authorized to issue a Public Notice in the official newspaper of the Town calling for sealed bids to be received at the Town of Watertown Town Clerk’s Office up until 3:00 PM, Thursday December 18, 2025.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Town Board retains the right to accept or deny any and all bids, and shall reject any bids which are not in compliance with the New York General Municipal Law (competitive bid requirements). The Town Board also retains the right to extend the bidding window in the event such extension is reasonably necessary to achieve submission of a responsible and responsive bid.
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 yes
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #142-2025
RESOLUTION #19 of 2025
APPROVING ADVERTISMENT FOR BIDS
(TOWN-WIDE SEWER IMPROVEMENTS)
WHEREAS, it is necessary to solicit for sealed bids for work relative to Town-wide sewer improvements, including I&I Repairs in Sewer District Nos. 4, 5, and 6; re-routed pipe at the City’s plant; and re-routed pipe on Fisher Road; and
WHEREAS, the Town will accept sealed bids via the Town Clerk’s Office beginning on November 18, 2025 until December 18, 2025 at 3:00 PM; and
WHEREAS, all sealed bids will be reviewed for compliance with the General Municipal Law (competitive bid requirements) and the bid winner will be awarded to the most responsive and responsible bidder at the Town Board meeting next following the end of the thirty-day bid window.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Clerk is hereby authorized to issue a Public Notice in the official newspaper of the Town calling for sealed bids to be received at the Town of Watertown Town Clerk’s Office up until 3:00 PM, Thursday December 18, 2025.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Town Board retains the right to accept or deny any and all bids, and shall reject any bids which are not in compliance with the New York General Municipal Law (competitive bid requirements). The Town Board also retains the right to extend the bidding window in the event such extension is reasonably necessary to achieve submission of a responsible and responsive bid.
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 yes
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #143-2025
WHEREAS, at a regular meeting of the Town Council held on Thursday October 2nd, 2025, the Tentative Budget for the Fiscal Year 2026 was presented to the Town Council as required by section 106 of the General Municipal Law, and
WHEREAS, the Preliminary Budget for the Fiscal Year 2026 was filed with the Town Clerk’s Office and made available for public inspection and a public hearing on the proposed Preliminary 2026 Budget was scheduled for 7:00 pm Thursday November 6th, 2025 and rescheduled to November 12th, 2025 at the Town Municipal Office, 22867 Brookside Drive, Watertown, NY, and
WHEREAS, at the November 12th, 2025 Council meeting following due notice of the public hearing being advertised and posted as required by the provisions of the General Municipal Law, a public hearing on the proposed Preliminary 2026 Budget was conducted providing the opportunity for all persons interested therein an opportunity to be heard on the Preliminary 2026 Budget which includes Preliminary Budget for the Town of Watertown General Fund, Highway Fund, Water Districts 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 and Sewer Districts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Town of Watertown Council as follows:
- This Council has met at the time and place as specified in the notice to the public on the Preliminary 2026 Budget and heard all persons desiring to be heard thereon.
- The Preliminary Budget as amended and revised for the Fiscal Year 2026 as hereinafter set forth is hereby adopted for the Year 2026, and that the several amounts stated be hereby appropriated for the objects and purposes specified, and the salaries wages with said amendments stated therein shall be and are fixed at the amounts shown therein, effective January 1, 2026.
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 yes
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #144-2025
Supervisor Bartlett moved to pay the following abstracts as audited.
Vouchers paid prior to monthly meeting
General Vouchers # 196 to 199 Total $ 8,624.60
Highway Vouchers # 165 to 165 Total $ 29,663.09
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 119 to 120 Total $ 4,925.40
General Vouchers # 200 to 201 Total $ 13,840.11
Highway Vouchers # 166 to 166 Total $ 22,633.10
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 121 to 121 Total $ 5,544.25
Vouchers approved for monthly meeting
General Vouchers # 202 to 223 Total $ 70,794.48
Highway Vouchers # 167 to 183 Total $ 40,604.93
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 122 to 135 Total $ 194,896.71
Councilman Prosser seconded the motion.
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins yes
Councilman Slye yes
The board addressed ongoing concerns regarding several properties with persistent clutter, litter, and junk issues. It was noted that the current law provides no effective enforcement mechanism for situations in which property owners fail to clean up after being notified.
Attorney Harrienger advised that it may be more effective to repeal and revise the existing law to include enforceable provisions. The board agreed to take up the matter at next month’s meeting, at which time a motion will be prepared.
Superintendent Clement gave updates to the Board:
On October 26, Angel French contacted staff again regarding ongoing sewer main blockages along US Route 11 in front of Thomas’s Car Sales. This issue has required three service visits within the past year. Ms. French reported that the problem has been occurring repeatedly and needs to be formally addressed. According to information from P & T, there is a low spot near Drive America and sand and debris from the car wash collect in this area, contributing to recurring blockages.
The board discussed potential solutions: Isolation of the problematic section and installing equipment at the surface level so staff does not need to enter the structure if the pit is not repaired. The board agreed this issue should be reviewed by engineers, given its recurring nature and safety implications.
There were two resent water breaks one on the Mall Road and one on Co. Rte 202. Both have been repaired.
Plow trucks: he reported that they recently completed a pre-installation meeting for the new trucks. All necessary components for the town’s truck build have arrived. If delays continue for trucks ahead of ours in the production queue, our truck may move up the list. The estimated delivery could occur January. Both the Freightliner and International chassis are onsite, and all equipment needed for assembly is available.
Mr. Clement raised the issue of potentially hiring an additional employee. He noted that the increasing workload in the Water Department frequently requires one full-time highway employee be taken away from their regular town duties. With the town expected to take on 300-400 new water accounts in the upcoming districts, the Highway Department is effectively short one to two employees needed to read meters and maintain the new districts.
MOTION #145-2025
Councilman Prosser moved to adjourn the meeting at 10:46 pm, seconded by Supervisor Bartlett.
Ayes All
_____________________________
Pamela D. Desormo, Town Clerk