DRAFT MINUTES FOR THE

TOWN BOARD MEETING

OF THE TOWN OF SARATOGA,

30 FERRY ST.,

SCHUYLERVILLE, NY

 

April 9, 2007

7:00 P.M.

 

Supervisor Thomas Wood opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance

at 7:00 p.m.

 

Roll call: Ruth Drumm, Town Clerk, called the roll.  Supervisor Thomas Wood- present, Councilman Fred Drumm - present, Councilman Charles Hanehan- present, Councilwoman Betty Koval - present, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – present.

Also present:  Highway Superintendent Dave Hall, Town Attorney William Reynolds, Deputy Town Clerk Linda McCabe, Assessor/Bookkeeper Catherine DeFelice, and other interested members of the public.

 

Recognitions/Presentations/ Bid openings/ Public Hearings: 

Chris Chase, Executive Director of the Saratoga Rowing Association, spoke regarding the Rowing Regattas being planned.  He stated that they have been hosting the Regattas for eleven years and use basically the same services each year.  He has set up plans to cover traffic and crowd control, public safety, sanitation facilities, water rescue, and medical and first aid facilities.

 

Proof of Notice having been provided by newspaper, The Saratogian, on 4/2/2007, the Public Hearing on the Mass Gathering Permit #1 & 2 of 2007- Saratoga Rowing Association Regattas – April 21, 2007 & May 12 & 13 was opened at 7:05 p.m. 

No one came forward to speak.  Supervisor Thomas Wood made a motion to close the public hearing at 7:07 p.m. and Councilman Charles Hanehan seconded it. Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.  

 

Tracy Clothier, LA Group, gave a presentation on the Joint Open Space & Recreation Plan for the Towns of Saratoga & Northumberland.  She presented a map and explained how the projects focus on the expansion of a variety of recreational facilities, parks, trails, and water projects along with preserving green space.

 

Proof of Notice having been provided by newspaper, The Saratogian, on 4/2/2007, the Public Hearing on the Joint Open Space & Recreation Plan for the Towns of Saratoga & Northumberland was opened at 7:28 p.m. 

Kathy Ceceri asked if the trails would be for bicycles and would they be on road or off road.   Supervisor Thomas Wood responded that the trails would be both on road and off road.  They would be off road where feasible depending on easements etc. and would be open for horse trails, bicycles and hiking. 

Andrew Sheeran asked if the cutting of brush for the trails would be open to competitive bidding.  Supervisor Thomas Wood responded that it would.

Stephen Bodnar inquired if motorized vehicles would be prohibited from the trails and Supervisor Thomas Wood answered that they would be prohibited.

Tim Raymond asked about the scope of the plan.  Tracy Clothier noted that they did a 20 year build out of the town.  They then prioritized the interests and needs in regards to open space and recreation. 

Town Attorney William Reynolds noted that in the plan recommendations it was suggested to appoint a person who would be dedicated to prioritizing projects, grant writing and tracking of the grants in progress.  He stated what an excellent recommendation that was and would definitely be needed.  

 

All persons wishing to speak having spoken Supervisor Thomas Wood made a motion to close the public hearing at 7:45 p.m. and Councilman Charles Hanehan seconded it.

Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.  

 

Approval of Minutes: A motion was made by Councilwoman Betty Koval and seconded by Councilman Michael McLoughlin to amend the minutes of March 12, 2007, Resolution #07-46 – Payment of Bills, Abstract 3G, to read General B $905.54 down from $1,129.54 and the total expenses as $138,130.36 down from $138,354.36.  This adjustment was made because a discount was given for the training class taken at Delhi Community College by Municipal Officers from Saratoga County, a savings of $224.  Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.  

 

A motion was made by Councilman Charles Hanehan and seconded by Councilwoman Betty Koval to accept the March 12, 2007 minutes as amended.  Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.  

 

Town Clerk’s report for March 2007: Fees paid to the County Treasurer for Dog Licenses $173.90.  Fees paid to the NYS Dept. of Agriculture and Markets for the spay/neuter program $57.00. Fees paid to New York D.E.C. for hunting and fishing licenses $63.29. Fees paid to the New York State Health Department for Marriage licenses $45.00. Dog license fees to Supervisor Thomas Wood $486.10. Clerk fees to Supervisor Thomas Wood $180.84. Total State, County, and Local Revenues received were $1,006.13.

 

Zoning Officer’s report:  Supervisor Thomas Wood read the March 2007 report: 3 Building Permits, 7 Building Inspections, 1 CO, no Complaints, 3 Zoning regulation books sold, and no Orders to Remedy were issued.  A check for $435 was given to Supervisor Thomas Wood. 

 

Dog Control officer’s report for March 2007: Supervisor Thomas Wood read the report from Ed Cross and Rick Sullivan.  They answered 32 complaints, took 2 dogs to the shelter, issued 26 warnings and traveled 247 miles.

 

Town Court report for March 2007: Justice Jack Ditch reported that the following were closed: 102 Vehicle & Traffic, 16 Criminal/Penal Law, 4 DEC/ENCON, 5 Dog cases, 1 DWI, 10 Town & Village Ordinance, 1 Small Claims/Civil, 2 Evictions, 1 Bench trials, 2 Divestiture Forms (case transfers) sent to County Court, 16 attended the Science of Speed School, 1 Defendant sentenced to probation, 140 hours of community service issued, 20 days of jail time issued, 3 Orders of Protection issued, and $21,860 (15,100.00 forfeited bail) in fees were paid to the NY State Comptroller. 

 

Tax Collector’s report:  Tax Collector Jim Gorham reported for March 2007.  He collected $233,902.14 on 229 parcels.  He stated that $2,186,379.04 was collected for the year on 2,693 parcels.  Tax Collector Jim Gorham added that 92.8% of the bills are paid through March.  He added that 208 unpaid bills of $457,917.74 were returned to the Saratoga County Treasurer on April 5th.  $5,303.41 has been paid to the Town of Saratoga for fees, penalties, and interest collected.    

 

Historian’s report: Supervisor Thomas Wood read Sean Kelleher’s report.   The Historians' office has been involved in a program to collect some farm histories with the County Ag Promotion Board through an afternoon at the Quaker Springs Fire House.  In addition, we worked with the Schuylerville Historian on developing a program for Historical and Surrender Week.  The office is continuing to work with the Archeologist and the Battlefield Protection Program working on the Fort Hardy project and working with Heritage NY.  We are working on acquiring some photos from the old Speedway along Route 4.   Finally, we are working with the Saratoga-Stillwater Grange on
protecting their older records.

 

Assessor’s report: Assessor Catherine DeFelice reported for March: 

We had a busy month, with 18 parcel transfers, 7 were valid sales and 11 were non-valid sales with 1 going into Life Estate and 3 foreclosures. We have been out inspecting parcels and taking pictures. I am still in the process of updating the values of new construction. We have been and still are collecting agriculture leases and we are getting them on an excel file so that we can easily see when a lease expires.

 

Supervisor Thomas Wood reported that a post card will be sent to taxpayers that will provide a code that is needed for the taxpayer to apply for the new Middle Class Star program.  Watch for the post card. 

 

Supervisor’s report: Supervisor Thomas Wood presented March 2007 balances in Town funds as follows: General A $1,117,200.03, General B $113,907.27, Highway Outside $270,412.04, Youth Recreation & Services $287.99, Highway Equipment Reserve $40,774.98, Building Reserve $1,002,870.53 and Fire Protection $41,476.03.  March revenues were $131,107.14 and expenses were $261,251.30.  The March balance is $2,586,928.87.

 

Supervisor Thomas Wood announced that a Legislative Grant Award notification was received from Senator Joe Bruno for a $15,000 technology grant for the town. 

 

The public commented on the following agenda items:  No one came forward.

 

Committee reports:

Highway: Highway Superintendent Dave Hall reported the new generator has been delivered and is being installed.  The work on the new storage shed has been completed.  Patching of roads is continuing and sweeping of the town roads will begin this month.  He added that work is continuing on the Southard Road project.  Highway Superintendent Dave Hall presented the board with an update on DEC bulk storage regulations, Part 612.  A punch list of requirements for compliance was made.   Supervisor Thomas Wood commended the Highway Department crew for the great job constructing the new storage shed.

           

Landfill:  No report.

 

Insurance:  Insurance coverage has been added for the new highway truck and also to cover rental equipment.

  

Youth:  Councilman Michael McLoughlin reported that the Schuyler’s Easter Egg Hunt & Roll was a great success with approximately 250 children participating.  Councilman Michael McLoughlin commended Kate Leone for a great job.  Kate Leone sent an e-mail thanking the town for producing copies for the event.

 

Buildings:  Supervisor Thomas Wood reported that Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand has received our $400,000 Town Hall Project request and it has been sent to the appropriations subcommittee for consideration. The next Building Committee meeting will be on Wednesday, May 9th at 6:00 p.m.           

 

Senior Citizens: Councilwoman Betty Koval reported that the Schuylerville Senior Citizens met March 13th at which time Supervisor Thomas Wood spoke to the group updating them on the progression of plans for a new town hall.  He told them that he would continue to update them in the next couple of months.  The Schuylerville Seniors met again on March 27th.  They held a tea cup auction at which many donated items were exchanged.  Participants had an enjoyable time with approximately 55 attending.  There is no special plan for the April 10th meeting.  The Moreau Band will entertain at the April 24th meeting.  The Saratoga County Senior Citizens Annual Spring Luncheon will be held on May 17th at the Saratoga City Center.  Tickets are available at the local nutrition site or from Marie Burch. There is a trip to Holyoke, Mass. planned for May 23rd. 

 

 

 

 

Councilwoman Betty Koval reported that the Quaker Springs Seniors will have their annual spring dinner at the Quaker Springs Firehouse on April 16th.  The cost is $7 per member.  The dinner is put on by the Quaker Springs Fire Co. Women’s Auxiliary.

 

Park Committee:  Supervisor Thomas Wood reported that Sam Palazzolle has stated that the deed for the park land on Rt. 29 should be ready in early May.   

 

Zoning Amendment Advisory Committee (ZAAC):  Review is continuing and new Road Design Standards are being drafted.

 

Committee to Honor Volunteer Firefighters & Emergency Medical Service Workers: Sean Kelleher submitted the following report: The committee continues to work forward although we have suspended meetings until a decision is made on the new town hall. The patches are being passed to the volunteers at each banquet.   Sherry Doubleday is doing a great job getting the plaques together to recognize the
Supervisor's Awardees.

We have ordered the street signs and they will be put up soon.  We received $120 in funding from Stewart’s Shops to put up signs at their two stores in the town and $240 from the Schuylerville Area Chamber of Commerce for two signs. 


GSES, QSFD, SLPID/SLA Reports:

General Schuyler Emergency Squad – Sherry Doubleday reported that they had 51 runs in March and 162 runs so far this year.  She added that 114 of the 145 patients were from the Town of Saratoga and 35 out of 51 patients in March were in the Town of Saratoga. They will be providing medical and first aid facilities at the Saratoga Rowing Association’s Regattas.  Sherry Doubleday reported that they have received all needed approvals from the IDA and the next step will be to find a bank.  She added that she been appointed as the Construction Manager Liaison and will be meeting every 2 weeks

with the architects.  They hope to break ground around June 21st. 

 

Quaker Springs Fire Department:  Stephen Bodnar addressed the board.  He reported that the fire department responded to 2 calls in March.  They have received a DEC matching grant for $1,000 for grass and brush fire equipment.  They filed a FEMA grant for personal protective gear and 3” and 5” supply hose.  They received notification of award from Senator Bruno for a $20,000 farm rescue grant.  They currently have a group of fire fighters attending Officer’s Training School and a Fire Management Seminar on April 10th in South Glens Falls.  On April 18th and 19th from 6 to 10 p.m. they will have OSHA training at the Quaker Springs Fire House.  A crew will be working the Regatta on April 21st on Saratoga Lake and 8 people will be going to Fire Police School in West Glens Falls on that day.  Fire personnel are currently taking yearly physicals. 

 

An Open House will be held on April 28th from 12 to 4 p.m.  They will be demonstrating using the new jaws and related rescue equipment.  A video will be there for people to view the proposed new substation.  Free food and tours of the fire station will be available. 

 

He added that the Annual Chicken Barbeque will be held on May 6th from 12 to 3 p.m. for the public.  Reservations are required. 

 

Old business:  None

 

New business:

On a motion by Supervisor Thomas Wood and seconded by Councilwoman Betty Koval,

the following Resolution #07-47 -Mass Gathering Permit # 1 – Rowing Regatta April 21, 2007, was adopted by vote: Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.

WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga has received and reviewed  the application for a Mass Gathering Permit by the Saratoga Rowing Association for a Rowing Regatta as follows:

Permit #1:             Saratoga Rowing Association

P.O. Box 750

Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Contact: Christopher Chase, Regatta Director

Rowing Regatta, on Saturday, April 21, 2007 at Fish Creek, Saratoga Lake; and

WHEREAS, the required information has been submitted, as required by Local Law #2 of 2006, reviewed and deemed satisfactory, and

WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga has held a public hearing on April 9, 2007 for input  by interested persons, and

WHEREAS, the event is desirable for the town, therefore be it,

RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga that the permit is granted conditional upon the Town of Saratoga receiving a Certificate of Insurance for the above event naming the Town of Saratoga as additional insured in the amount of $2 million, at least 5 business days prior to the event, and that the event is found to be in compliance with the NYS Department of Health regulations of Chapter 1, Title 10, Part 18 by the NYS DOH, and further be it,

RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga to return within 30 days following the event a portion of the application fee after expenses for the legal advertising and any other costs incurred in the review and overseeing of the event.

 

On a motion by Supervisor Thomas Wood and seconded by Councilman Fred Drumm,

the following Resolution # 07- 48- Mass Gathering Permit # 2 – Rowing Regatta May 12 & 13, 2007, was adopted by vote: Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.

WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga has received and reviewed  the application for a Mass Gathering Permit by the Saratoga Rowing Association for a Rowing Regatta as follows:

Permit #2:             Saratoga Rowing Association

P.O. Box 750

Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Contact: Christopher Chase, Regatta Director

Rowing Regatta – NYS High School Rowing Championships, on Saturday, May 12th and Sunday, May 13th at Fish Creek , Saratoga Lake; and

WHEREAS, the required information has been submitted, as required by Local Law #2 of 2006, reviewed and deemed satisfactory, and

WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga has held a public hearing on April 9, 2007 for input  by interested persons, and

WHEREAS, the event is desirable for the town, therefore be it,

RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga that the permit is granted conditional upon the Town of Saratoga receiving a Certificate of Insurance for the above event naming the Town of Saratoga as additional insured in the amount of $2 million, at least 5 business days prior to the event, and that the event is found to be in compliance with the NYS Department of Health regulations of Chapter 1, Title 10, Part 18 by the NYS DOH, and further be it,

RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga to return within 30 days following the event a portion of the application fee after expenses for the legal advertising and any other costs incurred in the review and overseeing of the event.

 

On a motion by Councilman Fred Drumm and seconded by Councilman Michael McLoughlin, the following Resolution # 07-49 - Lead Agency Designation - Joint Open Space & Recreation Plan for the Towns of Saratoga & Northumberland, was adopted by vote: Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.

WHEREAS, the Joint Open Space & Recreation Plan for the Town of Saratoga and Northumberland  is an Action subject to the provisions of the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (S.E.Q.R.) and the regulations promulgated to implement said Environmental Quality Review Act, and

WHEREAS, the provisions of S.E.Q.R. require the designation of a “Lead Agency” to determine the environmental significance of the Action, and

WHEREAS, this agency has complied with the provisions of S.E.Q.R. pertaining to “Lead Agency” designation, now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga is hereby designated the “Lead Agency” for the purpose of conducting the S.E.Q.R. review of referenced Joint Open Space & Recreation Plan for the Town of Saratoga and Northumberland.

 

The board completed Part II of the SEQR for the Joint Open Space & Recreation Plan for the Towns of Saratoga & Northumberland and Supervisor Thomas Wood noted that they had received County approval.

 

On a motion by Councilwoman Betty Koval and seconded by Councilman Fred Drumm,

the following Resolution # 07-50 - Negative Declaration - Joint Open Space & Recreation Plan for the Towns of Saratoga & Northumberland, was adopted by vote: Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.

               WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga, Saratoga County, New York (the "Town") is considering adoption of the JOINT OPEN SPACE &  RECREATION PLAN FOR THE TOWN OF SARATOGA AND  NORTHUMBERLAND (the “Action”); and

 

               WHEREAS, pursuant to Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law, Chapter 43-b of the Consolidated Laws of New York, as amended (the "SEQR Act") and the regulations adopted pursuant thereto by the Department of Environmental Conservation of the State of New York ("DEC"), being 6 NYCRR Part 617, as amended (the "Regulations"), the Town desires to determine whether this Action may have a significant effect on the environment and therefore require the preparation of an environmental impact statement; and

               WHEREAS, the Town has prepared an environmental assessment form for the Project (the "EAF"), a copy of which was presented to and reviewed by the Town at this meeting and a copy of which is on file in the office of the Town Clerk; and

               WHEREAS, pursuant to the Regulations, the Town has examined the EAF in order to make a determination as to the potential environmental significance of Action; and

               WHEREAS, the Action appears to constitute a "Type I Action" (as defined by the Regulations);

               NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF SARATOGA, SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK AS FOLLOWS:

               1.    Based on an examination of the EAF and based further upon the Town's knowledge of the area and such further investigation of the proposed JOINT OPEN SPACE & RECREATION PLAN FOR THE TOWN OF SARATOGA AND NORTHUMBERLAND and its environmental effects as the Town has deemed appropriate, the Town makes the following findings:

 

(a)   The plan is described in the EAF;

 

(b)   The Plan constitutes a "Type 1 Action" (as defined in the Regulations);

 

 (c)  No potentially significant effect on the environment is noted in the EAF for this Action, and none are known to the Town;

 

(d)   This Action will not have a significant effect on the environment; and the Town will not require the preparation of an environmental impact statement with respect to the Action; and

 

 (e)  As a result of the foregoing, the Town has prepared a negative declaration with respect to the Action.

 

                2.    The Town Clerk is hereby directed to file a negative declaration with respect to the Action (said negative declaration attached hereto); and a copy of the negative declaration shall be maintained in the office of the Town Clerk in a file that will be readily accessible to the public.

 

3.           This resolution shall take effect immediately.

 

 

The foregoing resolution was thereupon declared duly adopted.

 

 

State Environmental Quality Review

NEGATIVE DECLARATION

Notice of Determination of Non-Significance

 

Project Number:  06020                                                  Date: April 9, 2007

 

            This notice is issued pursuant to a Part 617 of the implementing regulations pertaining to Article 8 (State Environmental Quality Review Act) of the Environmental Conservation Law.

            The             Saratoga Town Board              , as lead agency, has determined that the proposed action described below will not have a significant environmental impact and a Draft Impact Statement will not be prepared.

 

Name of Action:            Joint Open Space and Recreation Plan for the Towns of Saratoga and Northumberland

 

SEQR Status:             Type 1             X 

                                    Unlisted          __   

 

Conditioned Negative Declaration:            ___Yes

                                                             X  No

Description of Action:

            This project represents a joint venture between the towns of Northumberland and Saratoga to inventory, assess and assign the best land use to the remaining open space resources.  It identifies the network of green infrastructure and outlines parks, trails and other open space and recreation projects.  The Open Space and Recreation Plan also focuses on a number of programmatic recommendations aimed at the long term retention of open space, particularly agricultural lands, and the protection of natural resources in the communities. 

 

Location: (Include street address and the name of the municipality/county.  A location map of appropriate scale is also recommended.)           

 

Reasons Supporting This Declaration:

(See 617.7(a)-(c) for requirements of this determination; see 617.7(d) for Conditioned Negative Declaration)

The Town of Saratoga finds that the Open Space and Recreation Plan is guided by, and therefore consistent with, the ‘Town of Saratoga and Northumberland’s shared philosophy for guiding and managing future open space conservation and preservation initiatives, as outlined in the Town of Saratoga’s 2002 Comprehensive Land Use Plan and the Town of Northumberland’s 2003 Comprehensive Land Use Plan.  The recommendations in the Plan have been carefully considered and found to be environmentally sound and of great benefit to the health, safety, and welfare of both communities.  Environmental impacts are found to be positive and entirely consistent with the Plan’s goals to preserve the natural resources and open spaces in the communities. 

 

If Conditioned Negative Declaration, provide on attachment the specific mitigation measures imposed, and identify comment period (not less than 30 days from date of publication in the ENB)

For Further Information:

Contact Person: Thomas N. Wood III, Supervisor

Address: Saratoga Town Hall, 30 Ferry Street, P.O. Box 38, Schuylerville, NY 12871

Telephone Number:            (518) 695-3644 (ext. 14)

For Type I Actions and Conditioned Negative Declarations, a Copy of this Notice is sent to:

Chief Executive Officer, Town/City/Village of Town of Northumberland, Bill Peck, Supervisor

Other involved agencies (if any):                

Applicant (if any)

Environmental Notice Bulletin, Room 538, 50 Wolf Road, Albany, NY 12233-1750 (Type One Actions Only)

 

On a motion by Councilman Michael McLoughlin and seconded by Councilman Charles Hanehan, the following Resolution # 07-51 Adoption - Joint Open Space & Recreation Plan for the Towns of Saratoga & Northumberland, was adopted by vote: Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.

WHEREAS, the Town Board received copies of the Joint Open Space and Recreation Plan on February 12, 2007 and a presentation of the Joint Open Space Plan was made at this public meeting, and

WHEREAS, the Town Board made copies of the Executive Summary available to the public and the Draft Joint Open Space and Recreation Plan was available for viewing at the Town Hall and on the Town’s website for review and comment, and

WHEREAS, the Town Board noticed and held a public hearing on the received copies of the Joint Open Space and Recreation Plan on February 12, 2007 and a presentation of the Plan was made at this public meeting, and

WHEREAS, the Town Board received a favorable advisory opinion from Saratoga County regarding the NYS General Municipal Law 239 (l) and (m), and

WHEREAS, at the meeting on April 9, 2007, the Town Board declared itself lead agency for the Joint Open Space and Recreation Plan and is conducting a coordinated review for the purposes of SEQR with the understanding that the Town of Northumberland agrees to be an Involved Agency, and

WHEREAS, the Town Board received copies of the Environmental Assessment Long Form on March 25, 2007, and

 

WHEREAS, the Town of Saratoga makes the finding of a Negative Declaration under SEQRA for the Joint Open Space and Recreation Plan; now therefore be it

RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga adopts the Joint Open Space and Recreation Plan.

 

On a motion by Supervisor Thomas Wood and seconded by Councilwoman Betty Koval, the following Resolution # 07-52 – Create position of Clerk – Part-time, was adopted by vote: Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.

RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga creates the position of Clerk – Part-time (a not exempt Civil Service position).

 

On a motion by Councilman Charles Hanehan and seconded by Councilwoman Betty Koval, the following Resolution #07-53 – Appointing Susan Hughes to the Clerk/Part-time position, was adopted by vote: Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.

RESOLVED, that the Town Board hereby appoints Susan Hughes as a Clerk – Part-time from April 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007 as budgeted for. 

 

 

On a motion by Supervisor Thomas Wood and seconded by Councilman Fred Drumm, the following Resolution #07-54 – Quadricentennial Celebration, was adopted by vote: Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.

WHEREAS, the New York State Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial Commission was established under Chapter 590 of the Laws of 2002, to plan, develop, and coordinate the 400th anniversary, in 2009, of the voyages of exploration made by Henry Hudson and Samuel de Champlain as well as the 200th anniversary of Robert Fulton’s steamship voyage up the Hudson River; and

WHEREAS, these historic voyages of exploration in 1609 would change the world forever and lead to the European settlement of the New World and the innovation of steam travel and commerce in 1807, establishing the Hudson River and Lake Champlain as a corridor of trade, communication, politics and ideas, and that further, this vital north-south corridor of water created other water links such as the Champlain and Erie Canals, which provided opportunities inland and encouraged the westward movement through these water routes; and  

WHEREAS, the State and the Federal governments recognize the voyages of exploration and invention to be of historical importance and significance to New York State and the nation and recognize the tradition to observe these contributions made by Hudson, Fulton, and Champlain, by commemorating these events in 2009,

WHEREAS, as an Explore NY 400 Community, the community may use the Explore NY 400 logo, link to the Explore NY 400 website, and may be eligible for either state or federal grant money to assist in Quadricentennial planning, events, and legacy projects; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Town of Saratoga supports the mission of the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial Commission, and requests designation as an Explore NY 400 community, and will be an active partner by establishing an Explore NY 400 Committee, and will cooperate to its fullest with the Commission in making the 400th anniversary a successful historic New York State event.

 

On a motion by Supervisor Thomas Wood and seconded by Councilwoman Betty Koval, the following Resolution #07-55 – Rescinding Peace Officer Appointment, was adopted by vote: Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.

RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga that the appointment of Bernard D. Wood as peace officer, Resolution # 07-43, is rescinded as the appropriate local law is not in place allowing for a Town Constabulary.  

 

The board authorized the following donations as provided in the budget:

v     Donation to Music on the Hudson - $200

v     OSAA request for donation for dugout - $2,000

v     Schuyler’s Easter Egg Hunt & Roll - $100

 

Communications:

v     Notification of the renewal of the Liquor License for the Alcove Marina, Route 4 South, Schuylerville, NY.

 

Upcoming events:

v     GSES Variety Show – April 27th

v     March for Parks at the Saratoga National Historical Park– April 28th

v     QSFD – Open House- Saturday, April 28th -Noon until 4:00 pm

v     On the Road to Planning A Future for Farms – A trip through the Hudson Valley - American Farmland Trust - May 4th 

 

Privilege of the floor:

Tim Raymond voiced concerns with the Preliminary Plat Approval of the major subdivision, Saratoga Farms on Casey Road and County Road 69, and the lack of a SEQR determination and a public hearing before the Preliminary Plat Approval was given. He noted that there are drainage issues and groundwater quality issues that would be addressed with the SEQR.  Town Attorney William Reynolds will check into the SEQR requirements.

 

Andrew Sheeran spoke regarding the lack of action by the town on a previous situation brought up to the board regarding a structure and septic system too close to his adjoining property.  He also had concerns with the neighbor illegally compacting roadways for a non-agricultural use when receiving an Agricultural Assessment per NY Ag & Market Law.  Town Attorney William Reynolds responded that the town does not enforce Ag & Market Law but does enforce State Building Code Laws.  He also questioned if our Zoning Officer is certified.  Supervisor Thomas Wood responded that both Zoning Officers are currently taking certification classes.  He then inquired if when a Zoning Officer inspects a structure if a Certificate of Compliance or Certificate of Occupancy should be issued.  He stated that he lacks one for his house and one for his pool fence.  

 

Stephen Bodnar directed his concern to Supervisor Thomas Wood since he is on the County Board of Supervisors.  He explained that the firemen are finding that the new County Radio System is inadequate; the pagers are worthless, along with many other problems.  Supervisor Thomas Wood stated that he will ask at the county concerning the new system as they have been told it is an excellent system. 

 

Upcoming meetings:

v     Building Committee meeting –Wednesday, May 9, 2007 at 6:00 p.m.

v     Agenda meeting – Thursday, May10, 2007 at 7:00 p.m.

v     Regular town board meeting – Monday, May 14, 2007 at 7:00 p.m.  

 

Audit the Bills: On a motion by Councilman Fred Drumm and seconded by Councilman Charles Hanehan the following Resolution #07- 56 - Approving the payment of bills in Abstract 4G was adopted by vote: Supervisor Thomas Wood - aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan – aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin – aye.  Carried 5 – 0.

RESOLVED, by the Town Board of the Town of Saratoga to authorize payment of the bills listed in Abstract 4G (04/09/2007) in the following amounts: General A $22,855.80, and General B $525.05, Highway Outside $16,479.87, Highway Reserve $57,916 and Youth $370.93 for a total expense of $98,147.65.

 

A motion to adjourn at 9:50 p.m. was made by Councilman Charles Hanehan and seconded by Councilwoman Betty Koval.  Supervisor Thomas Wood – aye, Councilman Fred Drumm – aye, Councilman Charles Hanehan - aye, Councilwoman Betty Koval – aye, and Councilman Michael McLoughlin - aye.  Carried 5 – 0.

 

 

 

Respectfully Submitted,

 

 

Ruth Drumm

Town Clerk

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