Grand Island Town Board
Workshop
Thursday, October 11, 2007
7:00p.m.
Re: Legal Advice – Meeting with Conservation Commission Regarding Conservation Easements
Town Board MEETING NOTICE - Oct. 2007
Grand Island Town Board Workshop
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
4:30p.m.
Re: Legal Advice – Cellular Towers
Town Board MEETING NOTICES - Oct. 2007
Town Board Workshop - Friday, October 19, 2007 – 3:30 p.m. -
Re: Code Revisions
Town Board Workshop - Monday, October 22, 2007 – 3:30 p.m. - Re: Code Revisions
Town Board Workshop - Tuesday, October 23, 2007 – 3:30 p.m. - Re: Code Revisions
Town Board Workshop - Wednesday, October 24, 2007 – 3:30 p.m. - Re: Code Revisions
Town Board Workshop - Thursday, October 25, 2007 – 3:30 p.m. - Re: Code Revisions
Town Board MEETING NOTICES - Oct. 2007
Town Board Workshop - Friday, October 12, 2007 – 3:30 p.m. - Re: Budget and Code Revisions if time permits - Re: 2008 Budget
Town Board Workshop - Saturday, October 13, 2007 – 8:00 a.m. - Re: Budget and Code Revisions if time permits- Re: 2008 Budget
Town Board Workshop - Wednesday, October 17, 2007 – 3:30 p.m. - Re: Budget and Code Revisions if time permits - Re: 2008 Budget
Town Board Action - 2007
Protestors of Country Club Cottage Project Come Prepared To Public Hearing
By Joelle Logue
Monday, Oct. 1, 2007 . . .A well organized contingent of residents led by Environmental Attorney Richard Lippes, all of whom oppose the Country Club Cottage project bordered by Fix, Fairway and Baseline roads, came well prepared to the public hearing on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). More like a lecture series complete with hand-outs, the presentation by residents to the Town Board lasted more than an hour as they attested to a myriad of reasons why this project would be detrimental to the Island. Foremost among the reasons were wetlands, stormwater concerns and poor soil quality.
Attorney Richard Lippes read his four pages of remarks that were directed at the inadequacy of the project’s DEIS. Lippes said he had never seen a worse DEIS except for a previous one submitted by Developer John Stickl. Claiming that the DEIS showed no understanding of state environmental law, he called the 20-page document “totally inadequate in fulfilling SEQR requirements.”
Lippes cited flaw after flaw in the report from the project description and purpose statements to alternative analyses stating that the DEIS was devoid of description and evidence. The section on wetlands, he contended, was largely argumentative and unsubstantiated with no baseline data evident, and the wetlands analysis done by the neighborhood association had not even been considered for inclusion.
Traffic assumptions made in the report based on the project being for active adults were not backed up with empirical data, and Lippes said, “Who is to say only empty nesters will buy those patio homes?” Furthermore, he said no specialneeds assessment of the seniors were addressed in the DEIS. Lippes called the Alternative Analysis the heart of the review process and said the DEIS was not up to speed to reject alternatives having no true discussion on the subject of a smaller project or follow through with the present zoning for single family homes. He added that soil boring tests must be done and that there are no mitigating measures to prevent sinking homes. He further said that the DEIS lacks baseline data on the project’s effects on flora and fauna and called the impact studies totally inadequate.
Jerry Wochadlo distributed his own response to the DEIS and challenged Town Board members to read each word. He was adamant about not developing land that had poor soil and contended it would result in sinking homes. Lois Jean Shriver called the parcel “wet,” wondered if homeowners could get flood insurance, talked about the land as emerging wetlands, cautioned against water ending up in the basements of adjacent homes, pointed out structural cracks already evidenced in Fairway homes, and said the town should clean out the east/west ditch. She also had her own hand-outs that were distributed.
Anita and Ray DeGlopper focused on the project’s potential adverse effects on their farm, the negative change in the character of the rural neighborhood, and cited reports that conclude cluster projects cause conflicts between neighbors.
Other speakers, Tom and Artie McAuliffe and Elizabeth Stoklosa, also emphasized the negative environmental impacts, called detention ponds dangerous, feared basement cave-ins, cited cracks in foundations, adverse affects on property values and claimed the land was just “too wet” to build on.
In juxtaposition to the arguments brought by neighbors of the proposed cluster development, Tom Metzger, engineer for the project, said the project redesign over the past couple of years had made the Country Club Cottage project a good one. With the cluster plan, 13 acres of open space is preserved, additional buffering to neighborhood residents is in place and half of the 1.39 acres of local wetlands cited would be preserved. No state wetlands are identified and in the 14.7 acres only .35 acres are federal wetlands. In fact, Metzger said, the 13 plus acres of open space would be an upland area with some land reverting to wetlands. He added that stormwater plans call for a wet detention pond with an aquatic bench adjacent to the pond that could result in an emergent marsh habitat.
As for the soil quality, Metzger claimed that clay soils would be mitigated with proper setbacks, and concluded that Country Club Cottages would provide an enhanced environmental setting.
After hearing all comments, Supervisor Peter McMahon announced that written comments would be accepted at the Office of the Town Clerk until 5 p.m. October 11. The Town Board referred the project back to the Town Board for further review.
Town Board Action - 2007
Several Projects Identified For CDBG
By Joelle Logue
Monday, Oct. 1, 2007 . . .Several ideas were presented during the public hearing, Monday, for the 2008-2009 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) process. Supervisor Peter McMahon mentioned that a new bus is needed for the Golden Age Center at an estimated cost of $80,000 to $90,000. Replacing the bike path on the south side of Love Road is another worthy project. But the only one speaking during the public hearing was Theresa Hooper who is advocating for a handicapped accessible playground expansion at Veterans Park, one that has a surface conducive for wheelchairs.
Hooper was advised by McMahon that additional letters of support with cost estimates would be helpful in promoting that project. Dave Birt representing the DAV and the Ferry Village Homeowners told Hooper that the DAV may have some resource funds for the playground. But he was also on hand to promote a bike path in Ferry Village. McMahon said the bike path there would not be eligible for Community Development Grant money as those funds are earmarked for projects that serve low income populations or senior citizens. The good news, though, is that the bike path is built into the Greenway Plan.
In order to apply for the next round of NYS Archives and Records Administration grants, the town is required to have an updated Geographic Information System (GIS) Needs Assessment. Therefore, the board authorized Bergmann Associates to perform the needs assessment at a fee not to exceed $7460.
Three special use renewals were approved as follows: the keeping of three agricultural animals by Richard Benz at 828 East River Road; the keeping of one agricultural animal by John Ventry at 3440 Stony Point; and Verizon’s wireless telecommunications tower at 423 Ransom Road.
The Town Board referred to the Planning Board a change in site plan request from Hot to Go Racing at 2317 Grand Island Blvd. that would put off re-paving of the parking lot until next spring.
In other business, the board:
• Referred to the Town Board a letter from the Building Department recommending that electrical inspections for the town continue to be done by the New York Board of Fire Underwriters and that no other inspectors would be needed.
• Accepted the Highway Dept.’s annual inventory of machinery, tools and equipment.
• Approved the closing of Baseline Road between Whitehaven and Grand Island Blvd. for the Grand Island Fire Company’s annual Fire Prevention Open House from 5-8 p.m. October 12 with the condition the Fire Company provides its own traffic control.
• Referred to the town engineer a letter from Glenn and Marianne Catalano requesting the town look into the cleaning up of Gun Creek.
• Referred to the Town Board a letter from William Briggs as owner and operator of National Electrical Certified Inspections requesting authorization to do electrical inspections in the Town of Grand Island.
• Announced that the VFW Chili Cook-off will be held Oct. 13 and the Knights of Columbus will hold a blood drive October 9.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - September 17, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes September 17, 2007 Meeting.
Town Board Meeting Agenda - Monday, October 1, 2007
Click for Town Board Agenda 10/1/07.
MEETING NOTICE - September 25, 2007
The Grand Island Town Board will hold a Public Hearing 9:30 a.m.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007 - Re: Public Hearing for Restore NY Communities Initiative Application.
See PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
Town Board Action - 2007
Public Hearings Bring Little Response
By Joelle Logue
Monday, Monday, September 17, 2007 . . .Two public hearings, Monday, one on a final plat for Ashbrooke Court Estates Phase I and another on amending Article 5 of the Town Code regarding the way the Architectural Review Board does business, had little public input. No one spoke for or against Ashbrooke Court Estates Phase I on Long Road and the Town Board granted final plat approval of the project. The board also approved a Public Improvement Permit for the construction of pavement, storm drainage, waterline and sanitary sewer to serve the 10 lots.
Attorney John Garas spoke neither for or against the proposed Local Law Intro #8 but had questions on the way projects would be considered in particular Golf Course Villas which he is representing on behalf of Smith Ventures. His question was whether the 500 ft. rule or three-lot rule would apply to Golf Course Villas and Supervisor Peter McMahon said that the three-lot rule would apply in specialty subdivisions. The Local Law was referred back to the Town Board for further consideration.
A public hearing has been set for October 1 at 8 p.m. to consider projects for the 2008-2009 Community Block Grant. The hearing will provide an opportunity for citizens to express community development and housing needs and to discuss possible projects that would benefit low- and moderate-income residents.
Discussion took place regarding representation on the Greenway Standing Committee because Erie County stands to receive $2 million annually from the NY Power Authority for the next 50 years. Wanting an advocate for the 10th district to which Grand Island belongs, the supervisor was asked to write a letter in support of Legislator Michele Iannello being represented on the committee. However, Mary Cooke who in principle didn’t disagree, asked for the item to be tabled till conversation takes place with Iannello in order to make clear Grand Island’s advocacy position. Thus, the motion was tabled.
A preliminary plat (fifth revision) for New England Estates that would eliminate two lots and turn over 7 ¼ acres of more land for open space was approved by the Town Board which also waived the recreation fee due to the fact the project boasts 17.8 acres of open space (more than required).
The Town Board authorized Supervisor McMahon to sign a lease between the Erie County Board of Elections and the Town for use of town properties during the primary and general elections. The town will receive $300 each day for the use of the Town Hall, Nike Base, Highway Garage and the Library buildings. The lease is subject to a 30-day permissive referendum and reflects a change in state law that puts the financial onus on the country rather than the towns.
In other business, the board:
• Approved the Highway Dept.’s request to bid for a new and unused 2008 heavy-duty cab and chassis.
• Granted a request from Michael Czerwonka to change property lines at 2116 and 2126 Harvey Road subject to approval of the town attorney and the appropriate paperwork being filed with the county.
• Approved additional work costing $4200.57 for the milling and resurfacing on the western side of the Staley Road overpass.
• Approved a budget amendment to account for the first payment of a $29,000 grant ($15,188) in the assessor’s budget.
• Accepted a bid of $4,300 from Grand Island Greatscape to complete work on unfinished playing fields at Veterans Park.
• Agreed to abandon three streets and approve the merger of six lots as requested by LPJ Development/Richard O. Robinson subject to all paperwork being filed with the county.
• Referred to the Assessor’s office a petition from the Fairview neighborhood requesting street lights and final pavement.
• Authorized a request for building permits at Town Hall Terrace for expansion but will withhold any Certificate of Occupancy until site drainage has been reviewed by the town engineer.
• Announced that the Carl Road water tower had been taken down with the cost of the demolition split between the town and the cellular company.
Town Board Action - 2007
Crop Walk To Celebrate 20 Years
By Joelle Logue
Monday, September 17, 2007 . . .The Rev. Earle King, representing the Grand Island Ministerium, was on hand Monday to accept a resolution honoring the upcoming CROP (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty) Walk scheduled to start for 1 p.m. September 30 in Beaver Island State Park.
Last year, 144 NYS communities participated in CROP Walks with participants raising $866,000. Twenty-five percent of the CROP donations stay in the local communities and Grand Island’s portion helps support the Neighbors Foundation that has a long tradition of feeding families in need.
The resolution encouraged all Island residents to support this effort.
Water Storage Tower Demolition - September 2007
Molly McMahon Photos - click for larger view
Jodi Robinson Photos - click for larger view
September 17, 2007 . . .The demolition and steel removal of the unused water storage tank/Cingular tower at 85 Carl Road was started at 7 a.m. and completed by contractor, Iseler Demolition of Romeo, Michigan, on Monday, September 17, 2007. Approximately 110 feet tall, the tower hasn’t been used for the past 20 years. According to Town Engineer John C. Whitney, foundation removal was to take place on Tuesday. Half the cost is to be borne by Velocitel Inc. representing Cingular Wireless, Whitney said.
The water storage tank was most likely built at the time the Grandyle Village homes on Love Road were being built in the early 1940s. Supervisor Peter McMahon said the land will used as a neighborhood play area.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - September 4, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes September 4, 2007 Meeting.
MEETING NOTICE
Grand Island Town Board Workshop - 2007
A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held at 4:30 p.m. Monday, September 24, 2007 Re: Meeting with Legislator Michelle Iannello – Greenway Fund Standing Committee.
Town Board Workshop Agenda - Monday, September 17, 2007
Click for Town Board Workshop Agenda 9/17/07.
Town Board Meeting Agenda - Monday, September 17, 2007
Click for Town Board Agenda 9/17/07.
2007/2008 School Tax Bills Have Been Mailed - Sept. 2007
Town Clerk Patricia A. Frentzel announced that the 2007/2008 School Tax Bills have been mailed. If you have changed banks, have paid off your mortgage or do not have an escrow account and did not receive a tax bill, please contact the Town Clerk’s office at 773-9600 ext. 620. The office will be open Saturday, October 13, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Checks should be made payable to Town Clerk. The last day to pay without penalty is October 15. Envelopes must show a legible postmark of October 15 to be accepted on time. Taxpayers should call the office for correct amounts for payments made October 16 and later. Payments can be made until November 30, 2007. After this date, payments must be sent to the County.
Automatic Water Bill Payment Available Soon - Sept. 2007
September 10, 2007 . . .The Town of Grand Island Water Billing Office will introduce an automatic payment plan this month, making paperless water bill payment an option for Island residents.
Enrollment in the plan is simple and free of charge. To enroll, residents can stop in to the Water Billing Office at Town Hall where authorization forms are available. Submitting this form along with a voided check authorizes the Town to withdraw scheduled payments from a designated bank account.
Participation in this program will ensure on-time bill payment each period, and save residents postage and/or trips to Town Hall: advantages of particular benefit to seasonal out-of-towners.
Informational brochures are available at Water Billing, at the Town Clerk’s Office windows, and the Town Web site, www.grand-island.ny.us. The public is asked to direct any questions to Annette in Water Billing at 773-9600 x 614 or accounting@grand-island.ny.us.
September 2007 National Preparedness Month
Monday, August 20, 2007 . . .Supervisor Peter A. McMahon, proclaimed September as National Disaster Preparedness Month at the Tuesday, September 4, 2007 town board meeting. The following was written by C.E.R.T member Nicole Gerber.
Protecting America's homeland and its people is a responsibility shared by every United States citizen. On August 30th, 2007, President George W. Bush proclaimed September 2007 as National Preparedness Month. The Town of Grand Island issues a proclamation tonight, September 4th, 2007, to officially recognize September 2007 as National Preparedness Month.
National Preparedness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness and to encourage all Americans to better prepare their homes, businesses, and communities for emergencies.
Individuals can prepare themselves and their families for emergencies by making a personal preparedness plan, organizing an emergency supply kit, becoming informed about various disaster threats, and getting involved in community emergency preparedness.
Together, Americans can significantly enhance the level of national preparedness to help protect people and safeguard communities.
September National Preparedness Month is also an opportunity to pay tribute to America's first responders who put themselves at risk for the safety of their fellow citizens. These brave police officers, firefighters, and emergency service personnel exemplify the compassion and commitment that help strengthen our country. We will be forever grateful for their service and sacrifice.
During National Preparedness Month, the town of Grand Island recognizes the importance of preparing for potential emergencies and encourages all citizens to become involved in individual and community preparedness efforts.
Town Board MEETING NOTICES - Sept. 2007
Town Board Workshop - Monday, September 10, 2007 - 3:30 p.m. - Re: Legal Advice – Whitehaven Road Campground SEQR
Town Board Workshops - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 - Wednesday, September 19, 2007 -
Thursday, September 20, 2007 - 3:30 p.m. - Re: Town Code Book Revisions
Town Board Workshop -
Wednesday, September 19, 2007 - 7 p.m. - Golden Age Center - Re: Legal Advice – Information Meeting – Commercial Vehicle Parking
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - August 20, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes August 20, 2007 Meeting.
Town Board Meeting Agenda - Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Click for Town Board Agenda 9/4/07.
Town Board MEETING NOTICE - August 30, 2007
Town board Workshop - Thursday, August 30, 2007 - 3:30 p.m. - Re: Country Club Cottages
Town Board Action - 2007
Residents Speak Out On Campground Pond Project
By Joelle Logue
Monday, August 20, 2007 . . .Residents, some pro and some against the proposed pond for a Whitehaven Road campground, were on hand Monday for a public hearing on whether to create a mining overlay district.
Kristin Price of Ensol Environmental, working with developers of the campground, explained that the pond would be the primary feature of the campground, one that would have positive recreational and environmental impacts. The 7.5-acre pond, that requires a 19-acre mining overlay district to allow the construction, would be 18 to 20 ft. deep and be stocked with fish. A small beach and boat docks are planned for recreation although no motorized boats will be permitted. An 1100 ft. hall road would be built and construction of the pond would take place in 3-acre stages of mining, according to Price, and the clay taken from the dig would be used to create berms along Sixth St. that would act as sound buffers.
Don Benoit, one of the partners in the proposed campground, spoke to his success in developing other successful campgrounds, one in Wheatfield and one in Alaska. As a resident of Grand Island and once manager of the KOA campground on the Island, his dream was to develop one in his hometown and insists it will bring much needed business in the form of tourist trade to the Island.
Elaine Pariso, a partner in the project and a Grand Island resident, described the proposed lake as an important part of the business plan and essential to the wildlife enhancement and water recreation. She said it would be kept as natural as possible.
Several residents spoke on behalf of the campground developers citing their integrity. Jesse Holka said Benoit had done well with the KOA when he managed it and said the project was a good draw for the Island. Joe Cinelli, a 43-year Isle resident, saw the campground as a way to keep visitors to WNY on Grand Island rather than having the Island be a thoroughfare, and Bill Torchia spoke to the need for additional camping spaces.
But others disagreed and seemed not only to be against the pond but the entire campground project. Ed Szpala, an adjacent property owner, wanted to know if there is a safety mechanism in place to restore the land if the business venture fails. He also voiced concerns about the dust and traffic during construction and asked who would pay for any road damage.
Supervisor Peter McMahon said that most of the residents’ questions would be answered following the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) which hadn’t been done yet and that a Surety Bond would be required by the developers for the first phase of the project.
Ken Johnson of Whitehaven Road had traffic safety concerns and stated that Whitehaven Road shoulders were already damaged and the project would literally evict pedestrians and bikers from the road. He also cited concerns for the Thruway overpass bridge that would suffer from the increased truck traffic.
Richard Smith of Sixth St. said the pond wouldn’t do anything for wildlife and called the whole project “ridiculous.”
The Town Board will review the mining overlay request and McMahon urged interested residents to attend other public meetings on the project including the SEQR workshop. Written comments on the mining overlay district for the campground pond will be accepted through August 29.
Town Board Action - 2007
Town Increases Economic Development Board Membership
By Joelle Logue
Monday, August 20, 2007 . . .The Town Board, Monday, acted on a request by the Grand Island School System to expand the membership of the supervisor’s Economic Development Advisory Board by three. New appointees are Robert Christmann, Richard Little Jr. and Glenn Bobeck. Christmann’s term will expire at the end of 2008, Little’s at the end of 2009, and Bobeck's at the end of 2010. After that three year terms will be in effect.
Supervisor Peter McMahon will sign a letter in support of Grand Island Memorial Library’s request for a NYS Library Construction Grant to replace damaged entranceways leading to the library. The Town, which co-owns the library, has agreed to fund the non-grant share of the total project cost and will have a total of $12,000 available on August 31. The improvements will ensure patrons, especially disabled patrons, have safe access to the building.
A request for a speed study on Webb Road will be submitted to the county and a request for increased sheriff and police presence and radar to monitor the excessive speed has come from the Traffic Safety Advisory Board.
A public hearing has been scheduled for 8 p.m. Tuesday, September 4 on Grand Island’s intent to seek funding through Restore NY grants for necessary restoration at the Dunlop Building as part of the Gateway Center Development Project.
Several Planning Board recommendations were approved. Vince and Lisa Mitchell of 3945 West River Road will be permitted to create a 17.8 acre parcel from their 22.9 acre land. The Town Board approved the final plat for Ashbrooke Court Estates – Phase I (10 lots on Long Road). And an antenna co-location for Mediaflo USA on the tower at 951 Whitehaven Road was approved along with a pre-fab equipment shelter at the base of the tower. The Board approved the combining of two lots into one by Norman Parisi on East River Road that would create one lot with frontage on East River Road, subject to all required paperwork being completed.
A resolution was adopted for the supervisor to sign that is necessary for the Grand Island Fire Company to obtain tax exempt financing for the proposed purchase of an aerial platform ladder truck. Another resolution was adopted for a Municipal Waste Reduction Grant-in-Aid application. Funds would be used to purchase a chipper.
In other business, the board:
• Appointed Edward Niemann an officer in the Grand Island Police Department effective August 21.
• Granted a one-month extension (until Sept. 30) for Andrew Chambers to comply for a reduced tap in fee to the sanitary sewer for his business on Grand Island Blvd.
• Renewed a special use permit for the keeping of two agricultural animals for Cathleen Shaw at 3054 Stony Point Road.
• Reappointed John McCarthy to a sixth five-year term on the Board of Assessment Review (expiring Sept. 2011).
• Referred to the Traffic Safety & Advisory Board a request by Kathleen Knezevich-Boland to lower the speed limit on The Commons from 35 mph to 20 mph.
• Authorized the supervisor to sign the HVAC Maintenance Service Agreement with M.J. Mechanical for the Grand Island Memorial Library and parks building for another year at a cost of $2000.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - August 6, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes August 6, 2007 Meeting.
Attention Hunters - August 2007
Grand Island Town Clerk Patricia A. Frentzel announces that licenses are now on sale at the Town Clerk’s Office during the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The application deadline for Deer Management Permits is October 1, 2007. Hunters should present a driver’s license as proof of residency to purchase license. Senior Licenses are $5.00 for hunters 65 years or older. Big Game season opening day is Saturday, November 17, 2007 for the Southern Zone. The season will close on Sunday, December 9, 2007. If you have any questions please feel free to contact the Grand Island Town Clerk’s Office at 773-9600 ext. 600.
Town Board MEETING NOTICES - August 28, 2007
Town board Workshop - Tuesday, August 28, 2007 - 3:30 p.m. - Re: Code Publisher – Town Code Revisions
Town board Workshop - Thursday, August 30, 2007 - 6:30 p.m. - Re: GIPD
Town Board Meeting Agenda - August 20, 2007
Click for Town Board Agenda 8/20/07.
Town Board Action - 2007
School/Town Agreement Formalizes Facility Sharing
By Joelle Logue
Monday, August 6, 2007 . . .The Town Board Monday authorized the supervisor to sign an inter-municipal agreement with the Grand Island School System in effect through June 30, 2009 that outlines what has already been occurring – fee-free facility and property sharing.
The agreement indemnifies and holds harmless each party from any and all liability, damages or judgments which may arise as a result of each using the other’s facilities and requires each party to be responsible for maintaining proper supervision and appropriate records of its use. Both parties are required to have in place insurance coverage. School district and town attorneys approved the agreement that was signed by the Superintendent of Schools last week.
According to Supervisor Peter McMahon this collaboration may lead to other cost-cutting efforts such as purchasing, maintenance and transportation. For now, the agreement mainly pertains to recreational activities. The town uses the district’s pool and gymnasiums while the school utilizes the many playing fields for its baseball and softball teams.
Town Board Action - 2007
Town To Review Architectural Review Board Considerations
By Joelle Logue
Monday, August 6, 2007 . . .Following a public hearing at which Frank Sturniolo, Architectural Review Board chair, spoke, the Town Board Monday agreed to review Section 5-3 of the Town Code regarding a proposed change that would limit permits referred to the Architectural Review Board and the distance between structures when excessive similarity or dissimilarity arise. If passed the amendment would become local law. Copies of the proposed amendment are available for inspection in the office of the Town Clerk.
A public hearing has been set for 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 20 to air comments on the establishment of a mining overlay district for the creation of a lake at the Whitehaven Road Campground.
The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation has announced lead agency status on a State Environmental Quality Review on a permit by Russell Lent for a 6.85 clay mine planned on Whitehaven Road west of the Thruway. The Town will provide the State Environmental agency with requirements as regards setbacks, barriers to access, hours of operation, screening limitations and zoning prohibitions.
The Town Board cited the following reasons for not approving the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Country Club Cottages:
1. Specific details were lacking on the quality of regulated and/or regulated wetlands that are being disturbed.
2. Specific details were lacking on geotechnical soil testing, if any, which were done on the site.
3. Specific actions and measures were lacking to prevent differential settling of foundations.
4. The first sentence under 12.B of Long Term Impacts indicates there may be long term impacts and that needed to be changed to “will” be long term impacts.
5. The first full paragraph under 12.B Long Term impacts misrepresents the number of houses that can be built “as of right.”
6. Item 12.B1.b discusses impacts but does not discuss mitigation for impacted wetlands.
7. Item 12.B1.f should read impact “from” agriculture rather than impact “on” agriculture.
The Town Board approved the auctioning of the following Highway Dept. vehicles in the Roy Teitsworth Auction at the Hamburg Fairgrounds October 13: a 1979 C80 Woods Rotary Mower, a 1989 D80 Woods Rotary Mower, a 1998 Ford F150 4x2, a 1989 2020 Hiway Spreader Body and a 1991 Chevrolet.
Supervisor Peter McMahon was authorized to write a letter to government officials in opposition to a proposed change in Article X of the Public Service Law that would put in place a new state permit for the siting of power plants. The legislation would pre-empt local authority over the siting of wind-farms in favor of the state siting policy.
In other business, the Board:
• Authorized the supervisor to renew the Economic Development Advisory Board lease for meeting space at IsleChem at a cost of $1 for the year ending Dec. 31, 2007.
• Reappointed David Unmack as part-time assessor with a six-year term beginning Oct. 1, 2007.
• Approved at bid of $117,967.90 to Fairway Construction for the replacement of the Melrose Pumping Station (#9) Forcemain on East River Road.
• Awarded a bid of $834,031 to Donald J. Braasch Construction Co., Inc. for the Bike Trail Connect Project.
• Amended the Highway Department Fund that would transfer $75,000 from the Emergency Disaster Assistance line to the highway, machinery equipment line for the purchase a new cab and chassis.
• Granted a special use renewal to National Fuel for the natural gas regulator/metering station.
• Adopted resolutions to accept the public drainage and sanitary sewer easements and to dedicate South Lane as part of River Meadows Subdivision Part V subject to approval of the town attorney, highway dept. and town engineer.
• Adopted a resolution to dedicate the stub portion of Countryside Lane in Hidden Oaks Subdivision subject to approval of the town attorney, highway dept., and town engineer.
• Announced the Grand Island Community Band and Chorus would be performing in the High School Auditorium August 9.
• Announced that the Buick Association would hold a car show at the Holiday Inn Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 11-12 and that the Moose Lodge would host a car show Saturday Aug. 11 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Town Board Action - 2007
Proclamations Salute Nat’l Night Out & Nat’l Airborne Day
(left) Council Members Sue Argy and Gary Roesch, Supervisor Peter McMahon, National Airborne members Joseph Stefaniak and Joe Synakowski, and Council Members Dick Crawford and Mary Cooke.
By Joelle Logue
Monday, August 6, 2007 . . .National Night Out held at the newly named Klingel Town Commons Tuesday boasted a variety of activities to entertain and inform. Participants included the Grand Island Fire Company, GI Police, GI Historical Society, US Border Patrol, US Coast Guard, Parks & Recreation, Home Depot, the Youth Board and GIFTS Program to name several. Recreation Director Linda Tufillaro and Recreation Leader Dolly D’Orazio were present at the Town Board meeting Monday to accept the proclamation regarding the family-oriented event.
National Night Out, “America’s Night Out Against Crime,” was introduced by the National Association of Town Watch in 1984 as a crime prevent event aimed at heightening awareness and strengthening participation in local anti-crime efforts. Kids activities Tuesday included face painting, crafts, child ID kits, bicycle inspections, and juggling and balloon sculptures by Gravitational Bull. Zonta sponsored a hot dog sale and there was ice cream and popcorn available.
Joseph Stefaniak and Joseph Synakowski were also at the Town Board meeting Monday to receive a proclamation declaring August 16 National Airborne Day in recognition of the birth of the 82nd Airborne Division. Grand Island is the birthplace and final resting of Pfc. Charles N. DeGlopper who was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his heroism in World War II. Also born and buried on the Island is Lt. Col. Terrance K. Crowe, trained Airborne Trooper serving with the 98th Division and killed by hostile fire while part offensive operation in Iraq in 2005.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - July 16, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes July 16, 2007 Meeting.
Town Board Meeting Notice - August 2007
Grand Island Town Board Workshops - 3:30 p.m.:
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Monday, August 13, 2007
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Monday, August 27, 2007
3:30 p.m.
Re: Town Code Book Revisions
Town Board Agenda - August 6, 2007
Click for the August 6, 2007 Town Board Meeting Agenda.
Preservation Board Seeks Photos, Information On Pierce Farm - August 2007
Members of the town's Preservation Board are in the process of saving the history of the Pierce Farm, "The Elms," by collecting information and photos to be used in a moving display. If you have information or photos of this 500-acre, West River Road farm, contact Sharon Nichols at 773-2421.
Long List of Activities Planned For Island's National Night Out - 2007
Grand Island's "National Night Out" activities will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, August 7, 2007 at the Marion E. Klingel Town Common and Gazebo area. Featured will be the town sponsored concert, music by the Niagara Frontier Fiddle Club (7-8:30 p.m.), demonstrations and displays by the Fire Company, Erie County Sheriff's Dept., US Border Patrol, US Coast Guard and lots to see and do for the whole family. Hot dogs will be sold during the evening by members of the Zonta Club. For a complete list of activities, see "National Night Out 2007.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - July 2, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes July 2, 2007 Meeting.
Town Board Action - 2007
Town Commons Named In Memory of Marion E. Klingel
(left) Supervisor Peter McMahon - Guest Speaker Joelle Logue with Supervisor McMahon, Mrs. Klingel's daughter, Teddy Linenfelser, and Councilman Dick Crawford - the Town Commons sign dedicated to the late Marion E. Klingel - Mrs. Klingel's grandchildren and great grandchildren Jim Stewart, John Bidell, Jim Linenfelser and Evan Linenfelser (front), Julie Dee, Amy Bidell, Ted Stewart and Jack Stewart.
Photos by Christine Stange
Story By Joelle Logue
Tuesday, July 17, 2007 . . .Marion E. Klingel, Grand Island’s Grand Lady, was commemorated Tuesday in a
ceremony that dedicated the Town Commons in her name. Town officials,
family members and close friends, and Assemblyman Sam Hoyt were on hand to
pay tribute. Marion, who would have turned 100 this year, spent the lion’s
share of her 94 years making a difference in this community. Tuesday’s
dedication was, in a sense, a lifetime achievement award, given
posthumously for her service to Grand Island that spanned all phases of
Island life.
Marion was the first fire dispatcher for the town, a charter member of the
Grand Island Historical Society and Republican Women’s Club, a longtime
member of Zonta International and the Golden Age Club. She was town
historian for 36 years and wrote historical articles about the town for
every Island publication while keeping the rest of WNY abreast of events on
Grand Island by being the first correspondent to the Buffalo News.
Marion was recognized dozens of times in her life. She was cited by the
Chamber of Commerce more than any other individual or group, and saluted by
the town, the county and even the state. The school district obtained a
high school diploma for her at age 86 based on her body of work. She held
honorary memberships in the Grand Island Teachers Association and West
River Homeowners Association and was named Senior Citizen of the Year in
1991.
Marion, a true pioneer and an incredible role model for women who came
after her, played a significant role in the development and chronicling of
the town’s development. Her dedicated commitment to a place she loved was
personally recognized Tuesday when her great grandchildren, Amy and John
Bidell and Evan Linenfelser unveiled her name on the Town Commons sign.
Here is a link to
Marion's Obituary
Town Board Action - 2007
Resolutions Approved For New Vactor Truck Acquisition
By Joelle Logue
Tuesday, July 17, 2007 . . .Following a public hearing at which no one spoke, the Town Board, Monday,
approved resolutions necessary for the purchase of a new Vactor truck used
by the Wastewater Dept. and Highway Dept. to flush sediment from storm
drainage areas and to clean out sewers with a high pressure hose. The
truck, estimated to cost $275,000, will be funded through the issuance of
serial bonds – 50% borne by the Consolidated Sewer District and 50% through
the Highway Fund.
A stop sign will be removed at Havenwood Lane, north of Settlers Row, as a
result of a public hearing at which no one spoke. The approved action
became Local Law 3 of 2007.
Giving formal support for an SPCA grant initiative, the Town Board adopted
a resolution to support the SPCA’s application for Maddie’s Fund money.
This foundation awards millions of dollars through multi-year grants to
animal welfare coalitions that work to avoid euthanasia for adoptable
animals.
Supervisor Peter McMahon was authorized to sign an agreement with VitalChek
to provide debit/ATM services to Isle residents for transactions in the
Town Clerk’s office. Also approved was an agreement with Energy Curtailment
Specialists, Inc. (ECS) for ECS to voluntarily utilize the emergency back
up generator at the Water Treatment Plant at times of high-energy demand in
the state wide energy grid. ECS will pay the town $8/kW of curtailment plus
an additional $.40/kWh during the curtailment period and will cover the
cost of fuel consumed by the generator.
Bids were awarded to Destro & Brothers Concrete Co., Inc for bituminous
resurfacing of various town roads in the amount of $292,060 and to Milhurst
Construction, Inc. for reconstruction of East River Road sewage pump
station at a cost of $82,331.92.
Public improvement permits were approved to construct sewer extension and
private drainage for three lots fronting on Meadow Lane contingent on
approval by the Erie County Health Department.
Supervisor Peter McMahon appointed Michael Dallessandro, chairman of the
Grand Island Fire Company, Inc., as a hearing officer pursuant to a public
hearing that will be held regarding the Grand Island Volunteer Fire
Company’s borrowing funds to acquire a fire truck from Crimson Fire, Inc.
at a cost of $725,000. The public hearing, to be announced, and subsequent
approval of the borrowing and issuance of obligation are prerequisites to
exemption from income taxation of the interest payable under the terms of
such obligation.
Site plan approval was given to Catherine Knight for a tea house and gift
shop at 2014 Grand Island Blvd. upon the following conditions: limitations
of the width of the driveway of 20 ft.; addition of a berm with arborvitae
to block the row of parking; the planting of two trees into the town
right-of-way; dumpster screening. A site plan was also approved for a
warehouse addition at 200 Industrial Drive with the condition that zoning
variances be granted for 16 parking spaces and that there is a five ft.
setback on the side yard.
In other business, the Town:
• Accepted additional open space of 4.65 acres given by the River Meadows
Subdivision
• Authorized support for a resolution supporting the application of a
Justice Court Assistance Program Grant for Grand Island Town Court.
• Referred to the Zoning officer a letter from Raj Chopra regarding a
request to rezone property at 1815 Love Road to accommodate a storage
building.
• Reaffirmed final plat approval for River Meadows Subdivision, Section 5
(20 lots)
• Re-appointed Maria C. Burns as a marriage officer for a four-year term
(Sept. 2007-Sept. 2011).
• Announced that the Highway Dept. has hired Lee Richard as summer help
effective June 25 at a rate of $8.75.
• Accepted with regret the resignation of William Vampotic from the Traffic
Safety Advisory Board.
• Announced that the Grand Island Middle School will have a team
participating in the 9th Annual Battle of the Books, August 4 at ECC South.
• Announced that there will be an auction of town equipment at the Nike
Base Saturday, July 21.
Town Board Action - 2007
Lynnette Bike Tour Day Declared
By Joelle Logue
Tuesday, July 17, 2007 . . .Friends of Lynnette Grisanti came out in force Monday for recognition by
the Town Board that presented a proclamation declaring July 21 as Lynnette
Bike Tour Day. The annual fundraiser, now in its 14th year, is named for
Lynnette and her grandson Billy Gugino, Jr. who both succumbed to cancer.
All proceeds from the event benefit “Friends of Children with Cancer” at
Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
A Chinese auction will be held in conjunction with the race and a preview
of items will be held Friday evening, July 20 at the Nike Base.
Meeting Notice - July 2007
The Grand Island Town Board will hold a workshop meeting at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 31, 2007 re: Meeting with Grand Island Police Dept.
Meeting Notice - July 2007
The Grand Island Town Board and School Board will hold a workshop meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 30, 2007 in the Grand Island Senior High School.
Town Board Agenda - July 16, 2007
Click for the July 16, 2007 Town Board Meeting Agenda.
West River Service Road Repair Work To Begin - July 2007
According to Supervisor Peter A. McMahon, the contract to fix drainage problems and repair the West River
Service Road should be awarded by the end of July. "Work could begin
anytime after that," the supervisor said this week. "It's likely that the work will be completed by the
end of the 2007 construction season. If that happens, the Town of Grand
Island will take ownership of the road including snow removal and
maintenance," he said.
The cost of the work, which is being paid for by
the State of New York, is about $1.5 million, Supervisor McMahon said.
Economic Development Advisory Board - July 2007
The Grand Island Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB) met at IsleChem on June 12th with representatives from the Golden Horseshoe Biosciences Network and Halton Business Development Centre from Southern Ontario, Canada. The Canadian groups have requested to continue a Medical Corridor initiative by identifying up to three Canadian Life Science Companies with an interest in exporting their products into the US. It is possible that one of these may eventually choose to locate a US office in Grand Island to support this international expansion. EDAB Co-Chair Mark Stramaglia, an employee of Invitrogen Corporation on Grand Island, says “Commercial Life Science business expansion in Western New York is an initiative multiple groups in our region is pursuing. Grand Island, with seven well established Life Science related businesses and an excellent location for cross border commerce, is a logical choice for involvement in this initiative.” Talks on this topic will continue and may engage additional regional resources in Western New York to assist in attracting expansion of businesses into the US and from the US into Canada.
The EDAB is a volunteer group of citizens representing residents, employees of Grand Island businesses, the Chamber of Commerce, and a Town Board representative. This group, serving the Grand Island Town Board, is dedicated to removing obstacles to appropriate expansion of existing and new businesses on Grand Island. For additional information regarding EDAB, visit www.grandislandeconomicdevelopment.org, call 716-773-9600 ext. 721, or e-mail development@grand-island.ny.us
.
Meeting Notice - July 2007
The Grand Island Town Board will meet at 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 17, 2007 regarding SEQR – Country Club Cottages.
Town Common To Be Dedicated To The Late Marion Klingel - July 2007
The Grand Island Town Board has announced that the dedication of the Town Commons to the late Marion Klingel will take place 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 17, 2007 at the Town Commons just before the band concert featuring "The Road Runners."
In commemoration of what would have been Marion Klingel's 100th birthday February 16, the Town Board, at its February 5th meeting, announced the dedication of the Town Common in her name and the erecting of a sign to that affect. Marion’s pioneer spirit as fire dispatcher, journalist, and founder and leader of service clubs helped put Grand Island on the map. She was instrumental in the Island’s development and chronicled its milestones and history.
See "see editorial"
See "see Town Board Proclamation 2/5/07"
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - June 18, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes June 18, 2007 Meeting.
Town Board Agenda - July 2, 2007
Click for the July 2, 2007 Town Board Meeting Agenda.
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