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Voter Registration At High School - 2007
From left: Bridget George, Michael Coty and Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel.
Click for larger view.
Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel (right) registered Grand Island High School seniors to vote on Wednesday, May 23, 2007. This year's enrollment was 75 students.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - May 7, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes May 7, 2007 Meeting.
Town Board Action - 2007
Public Hearings On Sewer Improvement Bond Issues Held
By Joelle Logue
Monday, May 21, 2007 . . .
Bond authorization for various sewer projects were approved by the Town Board Monday following three public hearings at which no one spoke. A $400,000 bond for a Force Main replacement, a liner replacement and spray wash down system at Sewer Pump Station 9 was approved as was an $870,000 bond for replacement of the overflow retention facility ()RF) basin liner at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Also approved was a $175,000 bond for Sewer Pump Station 3 replacement.
Bond resolutions were also approved for $425,000 for reconstruction of Ransom Road (from Sturbridge to East River) and $275,000 for acquisition of a Vactor Truck.
The Town Board set a public hearing for June 4 at 8 p.m. to hear comments on the Comprehensive Plan “Town Center” Standards of Performance and Matrix of Permitted and Special Uses for the Town Center Business Districts as prepared by the Long Range Planning Committee. A local law will also be considered to align the town code with the plan. The documents include specifications regarding parking, sidewalks, landscaping, signage, visual screening, building design standards, lighting, building materials, colors, rooftop treatments facades, awnings, marquees, canopies and porticos, submission requirements and uses.
A public hearing will take place June 4 at 8 p.m. to consider preliminary plat approval for seven frontage lots on East River Road (south of Whitehaven Road). Another public hearing on June 4 will address $232,000 worth for emergency power generators for the Consolidated Sewer District.
Preliminary plat approval was given for Waterford Subdivision contingent on engineering review despite continued concerns by nearby residents. Nan Hoffman asked again for tree buffers, more green space and conservation easements. She also restated her concerns about adding more traffic to the dangerous “S” curve on East River Road.
The Town Board reaffirmed preliminary plat and conditional approval of preliminary plat for Scenic Woods Subdivision contingent on final engineering review including the provision of sediment and erosion control measures to protect roadside ditches and the installation of drainage for lots 1 and 2 at the PIP construction.
Reduced sewer tap in fees to the newly constructed line on Grand Island Blvd. were extended to August 31, 2007 due to unexpected delays with the record drawings that prevented the issuing of permits for sewer connection.
Supervisor Peter McMahon will write a letter in support of the county Assessor’s Association proposal to revise the assessment calendar. Under the proposal the valuation date would move from May 1 to March 1, the taxable status date from May 1 to March 1, the tentative roll date from May 24 to May 1, the grievance date from the first Tuesday in June to the 4th Tuesday in June. The final roll date would remain unchanged, July 1.
The changes would improve the exemption application process, taxpayers would have additional time between the filing of the Tentative Assessment Roll and Grievance Day, and preliminary assessment data would be available to the school district at an earlier date for use in its budget process.
In other business, the board:
• Approved the closing of Whitehaven Road from Baseline to Grand Island Blvd., Saturday, June 30 for Island Happenings and KidBiz.
• Set Thursday, June 7 as Assessment Grievance Day for the Town.
• Granted special use renewals for the keeping of up to two agricultural animals by Thomas Thompson at 2487 Long Road and for the keeping of two agricultural animals by Patricia Burg at 3030 Stony Point.
• Approved a Public Improvement Permit to construct approximately 2300 lineal feet of 12-inch diameter PVC waterline along Alvin Road to service the proposed Fuccillo Automotive dealership.
• Announced Stickl Construction Company’s withdrawal of a request for a zoning change on 28.5 acres at the southwest corner of Fix and Baseline roads.
• Referred a letter by Julie McNulty regarding a request for a traffic signal at the corner of Stony Point and Ransom roads to the Traffic Safety Advisory Board.
Town Board Action - 2007
Town Presents Three Proclamations
Supervisor McMahon Reads the Buddy Poppy proclamation
By Joelle Logue
Monday, May 21, 2007 . . .Proclamations saluting Navy retiree Chris Affuso and the Buddy Poppy effort plus one promoting safe boating were presented Monday at the beginning of the Town Board meeting.
Chief Warrant Officer Chris Affuso and family members were present as he received recognition for his service in the United States Navy. Affuso was on active duty from 1980 to 1984 and in the Naval Reserve from 1984 to 2007. Born on the 4th of July, Affuso had a built-in inclination to serve his country. The Town Board extended its best wishes to him for a long and healthy retirement.
Memorial Day weekend is traditionally the time when the VFW distributes its annual Buddy Poppies that are assembled by disabled veterans and sold as a fund raiser with proceeds benefiting widows and orphans of deceased veterans and help needy veterans at the National Home in Eaton Rapids, Michigan.
This year the Grand Island VFW, in conjunction with other veterans groups, is raising money for a van to transport disabled veterans to and from the VA Hospital. May 24, 25 and 26 were declared Buddy Poppy Days on Grand Island and residents are urged to contribute generously.
With the summer boating season just getting under way, members of the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Buffalo and Division 3-9th Eastern Region U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers were on hand to remind Islanders to be safe on the waters. Proper size life jackets are to be worn and rules of boating were emphasized. Islanders were warned that the same laws about alcohol consumption apply to drivers of boats as well as to drivers of cars. The Town Board saluted the Coast Guard groups for the outstanding work they perform in improving life safety on the waterways in observance of Western New York Safe Boating Week, May 25-June 2.
Supervisory Police Position Created - 2007
Monday, May 21, 2007 . . .The Town Board, Monday, approved a two-tiered compensation schedule allowing for a supervisory position for the police department. Richard Stoll was moved up to this position – Pay Grade 6, Step C at a rate of $16.27 per hour.
It was announced that Highway Superintendent Ray Dlugokinski has hired Nicholas R. Velocci as a summer employee at a rate of $8.24 per hour and new hires in the Water and Wastewater Departments are Colin Gallagher and Michael Dlugokinski (summer full time employees at a rate of $8 per hour).
Lori Sorri has resigned her position as recreation attendant as of May 18. Advertising for her replacement was approved.
Town Board Action - 2007
Computers & Textiles Recycling Date Set
By Joelle Logue
Monday, May 21, 2007 . . .Computers, electronic items, old clothes and textiles will be accepted for recycling Saturday, June 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the GM Powertrain Plant on Vulcan St. between River Road and Kenmore Avenue.
All clean clothing and textiles will be reused at AMVETS’ retail locations or will be recycled. Electronic items accepted include CPUs (hard drives), cell phones, CRTS or monitors, keyboards and mice, printers, fluorescent bulbs, VCRs, DVD players and televisions.
For more information call 858-6996 or go to the website: recycle@erie.gov
Town Board Workshop Meeting Notices - June 2007
Grand Island Town Board Workshops will be held 3:30 p.m.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007 - Re: Parks & Recreation
Wednesday, June 20, 2007 - Re: Safety Manual Workshop
Town Board Agenda - May 21, 2007
Click for the May 21, 2007 Town Board Meeting Agenda.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - April 16, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes April 16, 2007 Meeting.
Town Board Meeting Notice - May 18, 2007
A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held 3:30 p.m. Friday, May 18, 2007 in the town hall Re: Water System – Asset Management Plan.
Town Board Meeting Notice - May 30, 2007
A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 30, 2007 in the town hall Re: 2007 Capital Plan.
Town Board Meeting Notices - June 2007
Grand Island Town Board Workshops will be held 3:30 p.m.
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Monday, June 11, 2007
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
in the town hall Re: Code Revisions.
Public Comments Urged Regarding National Fuel Gas Rate Increases - 2007
By Joelle Logue
Monday, May 7, 2007 . . .Councilwoman Mary Cooke asked residents to be mindful of upcoming public hearings to be held July 11 at Buffalo City Hall, 65 Niagara Square, Room 1417 at 1 p.m. and in the Niagara Falls High School Amphitheater, 4455 Portage Road at 6:30 p.m. regarding National Fuel’s proposed gas service rate increases of 7 percent for residential and 18 percent for transportation service. The proposed new rates, if permitted, are scheduled for December 27, 2007. It is not necessary to make an appointment in advance or present written material.
Other ways to comment include a toll free opinion line – 1800-335-2120 with comments referring to Case 07-G-0141 – National Fuel Gas Distribution Corp. – Gas Service. Comments may be made online via the PSC Comment Form in the Consumer Assistance file accessed through the Commission’s website at www.dps.state.ny.us or via “Contact Us” link at www.AskPSC.com.
Petition Presented In Objection To Proposed Verizon Cell Tower - 2007
By Joelle Logue
Monday, May 7, 2007 . . .A large contingent of Autumnwood, Huth Road, Pellamwood, White Tail Run, Amberwood, and Wallace Drive residents plus others showed up at the Town Board meeting Monday to display their objection to a proposed 120 ft. microwave cell tower proposed for the south end of the Huth Road Presbyterian Church property. John Cook who led the petition drive of 182 names spoke to the fact it would devalue properties and cause health risks, especially due to its proximity to Huth Road Elementary School.
Ann Marie Schneider also cited unforeseen health hazards and cited the law that states cell towers belonged in non-residential areas. Only William H. Good spoke in favor and asked of those objecting, “how many had cell phones?”
Public Hearings Set For Bond Projects - 2007
By Joelle Logue
Monday, May 7, 2007 . . .Capital improvements requiring bond authorization for various projects were approved by the Town Board Monday. A public hearing is set for May 21 to air comments on Sewer Pump Station 9 Forcemain Replacement, a liner replacement and spray wash down system at the Wastewater Treatment Plant, Sewer Pump Station 3 replacement, Sewer Pump Station emergency power generation, and a Sewer/Highway Vactor Truck purchase. The estimated total cost of $400,000 is to be financed by the issuance of serial bonds offset by any federal and state funds.
The Town Board approved a bond resolution in the amount of $168,000 for construction of a lavatory facility at Veterans Park Monday. The referendum is subject to a 30-day permissive referendum and comment period.
Despite a public hearing on final plat approval of Island Landings Subdivision – Phase I (four lots on Ferry, Baseline and Bush roads for single family homes and requiring no zoning changes), at which there were only questions raised and no objections made, the Town Board opted to table the project for further review.
A training plan for members of the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Planning Board was adopted that entails knowledge needed in the administration of land use laws. All board members are expected to be familiar with applicable laws and regulations when addressing projects that come before the town.
The 2007 General Fund budget was amended to provide for the purchase of two Automatic External Defibrillators from Zoll Medical Corporation, one for the town and the other for the Golden Age Center. The Town Board also approved training for the defibrillators that will incur no cost to the town.
Seasonal part-time maintenance personnel were approved for the Recreation Dept. as follows: New hires at $8 per hour – Kevin Buyer, Scott Buyer, Eric Hajnos, Frank Strano, David Whitney, Joseph Wilton, G. Cody Clarke and Re-hires at $7.43 an hour – Justin Dowd and Casey Dahlstrom.
Consideration of matching a state DEC grant to replace trees lost last October was approved and will result in $8,400 toward the purchase of new trees. If the grant money is run though Re-tree WNY and Grand Island makes a local contribution to purchase the trees, the amount could double to $16,800. The supervisor was given the authorization to sign the DEC grant application and other documents necessary to complete the grant process.
The Town Board announced the town is working in conjunction with the WNY Stormwater Coalition in developing the Storm Water Management Plan for Grand Island that must be developed and implemented no later than January 8, 2008. Public comments on the draft Stormwater Management Plan, available in the Town Clerk’s office and the Grand Island Memorial Library, will be accepted until June 30, 2007. Comments on the Annual Report will be accepted until May 24, 2007.
The Town Board encouraged the Youth Board for their efforts in forming a committee to further drug and alcohol awareness in the town with the theme “one team, one island, one dream, to be drug free.” The Youth Board complimented Lake Shore School District’s decision to implement a mandatory Drug and Alcohol Awareness meeting for all parents of Junior Ball and Senior Prom students and hopes the GI town and school will adopt a similar mandatory parental informational program.
In other business, the board:
• Authorized the Grand Island Memorial Library to purchase a John Deere JA62 Rotary mower from Drake Lawn & Garden Co. of Wheatfield in the amount of $548.10.
• Announced the hiring of Robert Fraser ($12.75 per hour) and Justin Piershalski ($8.50 per hour) as summer help in the Highway Dept.
• Announced the award of bid for a new 2008 light duty 4x4 truck cab & chassis for the highway department from West Herr Ford at a cost of $32,271.
• Announced the re-bidding of a new 2007 9’ all season dump box for the highway department due to the fact bid specs were written incorrectly.
• Accepted a bid from Baschmann Services in the amount of $9,435 with trade-ins of a 1991 and 1992 Vermeer Chippers and one 1998 Beuthling Roller for a new 2007 Patching Roller or Newer.
• Accepted bids of $11.45 a yard from Bush Trucking and Landscaping for topsoil and 6.50 per sq.ft. from Podlucky Construction for concrete needed for Water/Wastewater plant repairs.
• Declared a negative SEQR and approved a grading permit for the Kaprio property at 2704 Whitehaven Road.
• Announced local initiative funding of $8000 from the NYS Assembly earmarked for the Golden Age Center and security enhancements at Town Hall.
• Approved a school/town mutual benefit agreement that requires no money exchange for use of facilities or equipment from either town or school.
Town Salutes Golden Agers - 2007
By Joelle Logue
Monday, May 7, 2007 . . .A contingent of members from the Golden Age Club were on hand at Monday’s Town Board meeting to lead the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance and to receive a proclamation declaring May as Older Americans Month. Al Ackerman led the group of seniors. The Golden Age Club, which was established in 1959, was cited for providing necessary services and stimulating opportunities for older Americans residing on Grand Island.
Councilwoman Mary Cooke, later in the evening, reminded spectators that Gram’s Garage Sale would be held at the Golden Age Center May 19 with proceeds benefiting the Center.
Legal Notices - May 2007
Click for the Legal Notices and scroll down.
Town Board Agenda - May 7, 2007
Click for the May 7, 2007 Town Board Meeting Agenda.
Joint Grand Island Town Board/School Board Meeting - April 30, 2007
The Grand Island Town Board and School Board will hold a joint meeting 6 p.m. Monday, April 30, 2007 in the Grand Island High School Sr. Cafeteria, 1100 Ransom Road. Click for Joint Town/School Meeting Agenda.
Town Historic Preservation Advisory Board's “Before Beaver Island State Park” Draws Fantastic Crowd - April 2007
Display to move to Town Hall in May. Click photo for larger view.
Historical Society Docents Mary Burngasser and Dottie Roehrig; (left) Councilman and Town Board Liaison To the Historic Preservation Board Mary S. Cooke, Historical Society President Curt Nestark, Town Historian Teddy Linenfelser, Town Historic Preservation Board members Sharon Nichols, Shirley Luther and Bill Koch; Mary Cooke, Bill Koch and Mary Burngasser visit with JoAnn Vanderheite (2nd from left) and Peggy Baumann (2nd from right) during the Historical Society's Open House
Click photos for larger view
By Teddy Linenfelser
The Grand Island Historic Preservation Advisory Board's photo display, “Before Beaver Island State Park” drew a record-breaking crowd to the Grand Island Historical Society headquarters, River Lea in Beaver Island State Park on Sunday, April 15, 2007. The occasion was the Historical Society's monthly open house when members dressed in period clothing are stationed in the various rooms to educate the visitors. The photo display includes the beautiful mansions, home interiors, boathouses, barns and outdoor scenes on property occupied by the Allen, Spaulding and Sidway families and known as "River Lawn." The land was taken by the State of New York in the early 1930s when plans were made to develop Beaver Island State Park.
Historic Preservation Board members headed by Bill Koch and Town Board Liaison Mary Cooke, presented close to 30 photos that included the following:
The Beaver Island Club (1934 photo) - "The Villa" River Lea (before 1934) - E. G. Spaulding's Victorian era Stick Style home
Town Board Workshop Meeting 3:30 p.m. - May 2, 2007
The Grand Island Town Board will hold a workshop meeting 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 2, 2007 re: Code Book Revisions.
Town Board Workshop Meeting 3:30 p.m. - May 10, 2007
The Grand Island Town Board will hold a workshop meeting 3:30 p.m. Thursday, May 10, 2007 re: Code Book Revisions.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - April 2, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes April 2, 2007 Meeting.
Historic Preservation Committee Becomes Permanent Advisory Board - 2007
By Joelle Logue
Monday, April 16, 2007 . . .The Historic Preservation Committee, appointed by the supervisor, has been in existence for a number of years working on historic preservation law.
Since the work of the committee will be ongoing and is important to Grand Island’s natural beauty, rich heritage and history, Supervisor Peter McMahon proposed the committee become a permanent advisory board and that action was taken Monday night.
The Board will consist of four at-large members, two representatives from the Historical Society and the Town Historian. At-large members appointed by the Town Board are William Koch serving a four-year term, Sharon Nichols serving a three-year term, Joe Macaluso for a two-year term and Barbi Lare for a one-year term. Historical Society member representatives are Shirley Luther for a two-year term and Curtis Nestark for a one-year term. Town Historian Teddy Linenfelser serves a one-year term and, if reappointed, will serve each year of appointment.
The Town approved rate changes for part time seasonal employees who will become full time employees in the Recreation Dept. Mike Cole and Shaun Quinn will see an increase from $9.15 to $10 per hour and Neil Hoffman will be increased from $8.92 to $9.15 per hour.
During the public comment period, John Kackmann alerted the Town Board about a contract being proposed by Verizon to build a 120 ft. tall microwave tower in the middle of a prime residential area off the south side of Huth Road with Sandy Beach, Autumnwood Drive and Pellamcourt on either side. Proposed in addition to the tower is a concrete block building and a 6-8 ft. chain-link fence that would surround a 10,000 sq. ft. area. A gravel road off Huth Road would service the area 24 hours a day. Kachmann indicated that his neighbor, John Cook, has already started circulating a petition objecting to the project which contains 100 names.
The foremost objection to the Verizon project is the location (on tax-exempt land that is a wetland) and the potential health risks due to emissions from microwave towers. In addition, there is the obvious negative impact on property values, and the proximity of Huth Road School. Kachmann said there are many other areas in the town where Verizon could erect a tower that would have little or no impact on residents and suggested it should be on town property to gain additional tax revenue.
Public Hearing Set On Final Plat For Island Landings - 2007
By Joelle Logue
Monday, April 16, 2007 . . .The Town Board, Monday, set a public hearing regarding final plat approval for Island Landings Subdivision, Phase I – (4 lots). Lots 1 and 2 across Bush Road and Lots 3 and 4 across Ferry Road are at least three acres. The Corps of Engineers is still debating on the wetlands. A private conservation area with deed restrictions on property owners cutting trees, filling or grading will be in place. Rear yard drainage will be installed along the conservation line with the drainage pipe on Lot 3 running all the way to Ferry Road. The Planning Board is recommending approval.
A request to re-divide existing residential parcels owned by David Perri
(1911 Webb Road) and Robert Saj (1899 Webb Road) was approved subject to evidence of new deeds on the reconfiguration being filed with the county clerk. A SEQR that resulted in a negative declaration was held during the workshop leading up to the town board meeting.
A request from Randy Hillock to rezone a strip of land (1973 to 2005) on Baseline Road from R1-D to TCMR was denied based on the past history determining that the R1-D is acting as a border for Webb Road residents and the rest of the Hillock land that is zoned TCMR. Hillock wanted to have all the land zoned the same.
In other business, the board:
• Referred to the Zoning officer a letter from David Mazur requesting a
60-day extension to clean up his property at 131 Industrial Drive citing weather-related issues.
• Accepted with regret the resignation of Lewis Rich from the Economic
Development Advisory Board and appointed Robert Ratajczak Jr. to fill Rich’s term that expires Dec. 31, 2007.
• Authorized the purchase of a 2007 Ford pick up for the Town Recreation
Dept. at a cost of $13,608.
• Announced that on Arbor Day, April 27, 25 elm trees, donated by Home Depot,
would be planted in Veterans Park and volunteers to assist with the planting would be welcome.
Town Salutes Dr. Miller, Town Clerk - 2007
By Joelle Logue
Monday, April 16, 2007 . . .The Town Board took the occasion of Dr. Robert Miller’s 80th birthday to recognize his volunteer efforts and the outstanding contributions he has made to the Grand Island community by presenting a proclamation to he and his wife, Sherry, at Monday’s Town Board meeting.
Citing his family practice from 1956 to 1996, his active participation as a charter member of the Rotary Club and Grand Island Neighbors Foundation, the town also saluted his professional leadership in the Grand Island schools, the Grand Island Narcotics Council, the Grand Island Nursing Home, St. Timothy Lutheran Church, and SUNY Buffalo Medical School where Dr. Miller is a professor emeritus and received the Golden Stethoscope Award.
In honor of his 80th birthday, the Town Board declared April 27, 2007 as Dr. Robert Miller Day.
Town Clerk Patricia Frentzel was also honored for her public service role as the Town Board recognized April 29 thru May 5 as Town Clerks Week. The office of Town Clerk is the oldest among public offices providing professional links between the citizens and agencies of government. The administration of duties is constantly updated and improved through participation in education programs, seminars and annual meetings. Appreciation for this significant public government role is extended to Frentzel and each of her deputies.
Town Board Agenda - April 16, 2007
Click for the April 16, 2007 Town Board Meeting Agenda.
Town Preservation Committee To Present Photo Display - April 2007
“Before Beaver Island State Park”
The Georgian style Sidway mansion from a collection of photos taken April 29, 1932 by Hare Photography Studios.
By Teddy Linenfelser
Thursday, April 5, 2007 . . .The location of Beaver Island State Park, opened to the public in 1935, was at one time known as River Lawn, the 350-acre estate where one of the largest and most elegant homes was built around the turn of the century. This was the Georgian style home built by Franklin and Charlotte Spaulding Sidway and the center piece of "River Lawn."
The town's Historic Preservation Committee will present a photo display, “Before Beaver Island State Park,” at an Open House at River Lea in Beaver Island State Park from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, April 15, 2007. The display will feature over two dozen photographs taken at River Lawn including several interior scenes of the Sidway mansion as well as outbuildings, several picturesque barns, boat houses and carriage houses and more. Two other homes to be featured are the Elbridge Gerry Spaulding Victorian era Stick Style home built about 1870 as his summer retreat, and the Ralph Sidway home, still standing.
The Historic Preservation Committee will continue its goals of preserving and promoting the rich heritage and history of Grand Island: its people, structures and natural beauty. The Preservation Committee plans to set up the display in various Island locations for the benefit of the community.
Town Board Workshop Meeting- 2006
A.Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, 2007 Re: Grading Permit for River Oaks Marina.
Deadline Approaching For Star And Senior Star Exemptions - 2006
May 1, 2007 is the cutoff date for all Basic Star, Enhanced Star/Senior Exemption and Veterans tax exemptions for the tax year - School 2007/2008 and Town/County 2008. Those who have not already done so, are asked to bring their paperwork to the Assessors Office at Town Hall on or before Monday, May 1, 2007.
Town Board Action - 2007
Procedure Set For Recreation Fee Collection
By Joelle Logue
Monday, April 2, 2007 . . .Since most requests for exception to subdivision waivers involve too little land to permit dedication of land for recreation purposes, the Town Board Monday adopted a resolution for a recreation fee per new lot to be paid in advance (at the time of the waiver request). No waivers will be considered without the payment. Should the waiver not be granted or if the Board requires a dedication of land for recreation purposes, the fee will be reimbursed. Exceptions to the resolution procedure would be situations in which movement of property lines do not result in the creation of a new lot.
Special use renewals were granted for Communications Towers at 318 Baseline Road/Water Plant, Bedell Road/bike path and 3078 Staley Road. The board also approved a special use renewal for the excavation of a pond by James and Irene Daigler at 2340 Staley Road.
Authorization for the highway department to bid on the followings vehicles was approved: a new 2008 light duty 4x4 truck cab and chassis; a new 2008 9 ft. all season dump box; a new 2008 small pavement roller with trade-ins of a 1991 Vermeer chipper, 1992 Vermeer chipper and 1998 Beuthling roller.
A budget transfer was approved to allow for an increase in the Water Equipment line to accommodate buying a dump truck in 2007. The funds were moved from last year’s budget and the transfer does not affect the fund balance from the original budget. The budget line was increased to $40,670. There were decreases of $26,000 in the Water Overtime budget line and $14,670 in the water repair line.
Part-time and seasonal hirings were approved as follows for Parks & Recreation:
(April 3-20 for 19 hours a week): Mike Cole, George Christensen, Shaun Quinn, Clifford Smith, Neil Hoffman, Tom Digati, Andy Pappano, Kyle Moody, Ted Rogers.
(April 3-Oct. for 19 hours a week): Gerald Peete
(Seasonal beginning April 23 – 40 hrs. for 20 weeks): Mike Cole, George Christensen, Shaun Quinn, Clifford Smith, Neil Hoffman, Tom Digati, Andy Pappano, Kyle Moody, Ted Rogers, Beverly Benton, Mark Larry.
Town Supervisor Peter McMahon was authorized to sign an amendment with NYS extending the funding for the Scenic Woods/Bicentennial Master Plan project until December 31.
In other business, the board:
• Approved Parks & Recreation Director Linda Tufillaro’s attendance at the NYS Recreation & Parks Conference in Buffalo.
• Accepted with regret the resignation of Maisie Dommell from the Citizens Corp./CERT Council.
• Announced that the Historical Society Open House at River Lea would be held April 15.
Town Board Action - 2007
First FEMA Check Arrives
By Joelle Logue
Monday, April 2, 2007 . . .Councilwoman Mary Cooke announced Monday that the first check from FEMA, covering costs incurred during the October Surprise storm and totaling $172,232, had arrived in Town Hall. Two other checks are expected, one for $3160 and another for $89,000.
Another $55,000 is expected from the Town’s insurance company to cover costs involved with a sewer pumping station going down. Should there be any problem with collecting this money, FEMA will pick up the costs or any difference between the amount the insurance pays and the actual cost to fix the pump.
Town Board Action - 2007
GIHS DECA Proclamation, Public Safety Telecommunications Proclamation - Apr. 2007
By Joelle Logue
DECA Advisor Cheryl Chamberlain and Grand Island High School Principal Sandra Anzalone attended the town board meeting along with DECA students.
Click photos for larger view
Monday, April 2, 2007 . . .Most of the audience at Monday’s Town Board meeting consisted of Grand Island High School DECA students and their faculty advisors who recently participated in the NYS Career conference in Rochester. Competing in areas such as travel and tourism, sports and entertainment, marketing, and decision-making, the group of 20 plus brought home 15 medals and three trophies. For their outstanding efforts, the Town Board proclaimed April 3 DECA Day throughout the town and saluted the school district for its focus on the DECA business curriculum that is woven into school programs to better prepare students for competitive events and future life experiences.
Also recognized by the Town was Fire Chief Greg Butcher who accepted a proclamation declaring the week of April 8-14 as National Public Safety Telecommunication Week. Telecommunicators serve as the first and most critical link between the citizens of a community and its emergency services, performing duties that have the potential for dramatic impacts on the safety of both citizens and emergency service providers. The efforts of Grand Island’s professional and diligent public safety telecommunicators have been outstanding.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - March 19, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes March 19, 2007 Meeting.
Town Board Meeting 3:30 p.m. - April 2, 2007
The Grand Island Town Board will hold a workshop meeting 3:30 p.m. Monday, April 2, 2007 re: Advisory Board Interview.
Town Board Agenda - April 2, 2007
Click for the April 2, 2007 Town Board Workshop Agenda.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - March 5, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes March 5, 2007 Meeting.
Unapproved Town Board Meeting Minutes - March 19, 2007
Click for Unapproved Minutes March 19, 2007 Meeting.
Town Board Action - 2007
Eagle Scout Recognized
Town Board Considers Training Mandate
(left) Supervisor McMahon with Sean Michael McDermott and his parents Christine and Michael McDermott.
By Joelle Logue
Jeff Stange Photo - Click for larger view.
Monday, March 19, 2007 . . .The Town Board, Monday, recognized GIHS senior Sean Michael McDermott and congratulated him on attaining the most prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. Sean, who was accompanied by his parents, Michael and Christine McDermott of Pheasant Trail, is a member of Boy Scout Troop 630 sponsored by St. Stephen Catholic Church. His Eagle Scout project was to help prepare St. Mary’s of the Cataract Church in Niagara Falls for re-dedication with a landscaping project that took approximately 150 man-hours of planning and leadership.
Due to new state legislation that requires annual training for members of the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals, the Town Board wrote a resolution that specifically identifies what training is acceptable. Required as per resolution is a minimum of four hours of suitable training that may be achieved through educational activities such as attending conferences, seminars, workshops etc., attending college courses, participating in online tutorials, reading journal articles or books or other acceptable activities. The training may be offered by a municipality, regional or county planning office or commission, state planning federation, state agency, college or university or other similar entity. A record of the training must be maintained with a copy provided to the Town Board before reappointment to the boards. Suitable training in excess of four hours may be accumulated and carried over the succeeding year. The resolution was referred to both the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals for review and recommendation.
Four budget transfers were approved. All were made within the same fund for the year ending 2006. In General Fund, $7,452; Highway, $99; Sewer, $103,495; Water, $18.
In a workshop prior to the town meeting, the Town Board granted a negative declaration regarding the creation of an 8.66 acre lot on Love Road as requested by Joan Dlugokinski for Elaine Oakley. Proposed is to split 140x2693 ft. from parcel 50.04.1 leaving 275 ft. of frontage. The waiver to subdivision regulations was approved subject to the receipt of a $500 recreational fee.
The Town granted another waiver to subdivision regulations for Concetta and Julian Archie who want to split a 3.61 lot on Alt Blvd. The approval is contingent on the receipt of the $500 recreation fee.
In consideration of a $4200 tree grant, the result of Municipal Urban Restoration Assistance from the State Division of Lands & Forests, the Town Board will meet with the Conservation Commission, Garden Clubs and Parks & Recreation Board to determine how to spend the funds. Discussed will be placement (public property – street tree planting and maintenance) and types of trees.
In other business, the board:
• Authorized the purchase of mower/tractor for the Recreation Dept. at a cost of $54,148.80.
• Referred to Special Districts a letter from Claudia and Kevin O’Neil of Bedell Road complaining about three major water main failures occurring in April and August of 2006 and most recently February 2007.
• Referred back to Zoning Officer John McCarthy a memo regarding a proposed Spiderman figure that would be placed over the ledge of a comic book store located on Love Road next to Say Cheese and asked that an application be made based on the existing sign ordinance.
• Agreed to write a letter in support of separate legislation and penalty for Internet sex offenders as proposed by State Assemblyman Mark Schroeder.
• Scott Ferguson again appealed to the Town Board to extend parking restrictions on Bishops Gate to noon or even the end of the school day.
Town Clerk Alerts Residents To Passport Request Delays
By Joelle Logue
Monday, March 19, 2007 . . .Due to tougher immigration rules and new passport requirements for citizens traveling between the USA and Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, the State Department is experiencing lengthy delays in filling passport requests. Despite hefty fees to speed the application process, would-be travelers are waiting up to four weeks and routine passport processing is taking 10 weeks instead of the usual six weeks.>
For adults, the routine processing fee for a first time passport is $97 with an additional charge of $60 for expedited service. Passport renewals cost $67. For more information on the passport application
process, call the Town Clerk's office at 773-9600, Ext. 600.
br>
Town Board Action - 2007
Town Wants To Keep Cable Decisions Local
By Joelle Logue
Monday, March 19, 2007 . . .The Town Board suspended the rules, Monday, to add an agenda item regarding the negotiation of Cable TV franchises. The Cable/Communications Committee learned of an Assembly bill that was introduced just last week that would change the way towns and cable companies do business and it wanted to react in a timely manner. Thus, the town approved a resolution that would keep local government involved in negotiating and addressing specific concerns of residents as regards cable television franchises.
Grand Island’s contract with the local cable TV franchise ended last year and the Cable/Communications Committee has been negotiating on a number of items including a senior citizen discount and cable accessibility to Grand Island Blvd. where there currently is no service.
The proposed Assembly Bill would leave cable TV franchise decisions to the state. Grand Island strongly objects to the proposed bill and a resolution stating so will be sent to all members of the WNY delegation, along with the Governor, requesting that the legislature reject the proposed Assembly bill.
Town Board Meeting Notice - March 22, 2007
A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held 3:30 p.m. Thursday, March 22, 2007 in the town hall Re: Meeting with Golden Age Center Director.
Town Board Workshop Notice - March 19, 2007
Click for the Mar. 19, 2006 Town Board Workshop Agenda.
Town Board Agenda - March 19, 2007
Click for the Mar. 19, 2006 Town Board Workshop Agenda.
Town Board Workshop Notice - March 20, 2007
A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 20, 2007 Re: Town Center Performance Standards & Land Use.
Town Board Workshop Notice - April 17, 2007
A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 17, 2007 Re: Meeting with Grand Island Police Officers.
MEETING CANCELLED
Town Board Workshop Notice - April 25, 2007
A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 25, 2007 Re: Meeting with Court Staff. Meeting cancelled.
Town Board Action - 2007
Eagle Scout Honored by Town Board
(left photo) Councilmembers Gary Roesch and Sue Argy, Supervisor McMahon, Josh Camizzi and parents Barb and Tim Camizzi (Troop Committeeman), Greater Niagara Frontier Council District Commissioner Dave Goris, Councilmembers Dick Crawford and Mary Cooke.
(right photo) Sue Argy, Supervisor Peter McMahon, Eagle Scout Josh Camizzi and his mother and father.
By Joelle Logue
Jeff Stange Photos
Monday, March 5, 2007 . . .Josh Camizzi, along with members of his family and Scout leaders, was presented a proclamation by the Town Board Monday for his achievement as an Eagle Scout. A member of Boy Scout Troop 254 sponsored by Island Presbyterian Church, Josh led his Eagle Scout Project Team in the construction and placement of 12 benches in Buckhorn State Park, a project that took an entire summer of planning and implementing. A senior at Grand Island High School, Josh is the son of Timothy and Barbara Camizzi of Baseline Road
Two appointments were made to fill vacancies on the town’s advisory boards.
M. Scott Morris was appointed to the Traffic Safety Advisory Board for the balance of a vacated term expiring December 31, 2007. Dennis Dahl was appointed to the Cable/Communications Committee for the remainder of the term set to expire December 31, 2007. The board agreed to advertise for positions on other boards including another on the Cable/Communications Board and the Conservation Commission.
A change order to the engineering agreement for an additional $3,800 was approved to take care of issues relating to the operation of the new pumps, part of the Baseline Master Lift Force Main Replacement and Pump Station Rehabilitation project. This required engineering evaluation and oversight by Stearns & Wheler that discovered the issues were the fault of the contractor. The contractor credited the town with the $3,800 that was paid to Stearns & Wheler, thus there was no increase to the overall cost of the project with this change order.
The Town Board awarded a proposal for professional engineering services with respect to the Master Plan for Bicentennial Park/Scenic Woods to EDR/Wm. Schutt & Associates for a fee of $25,000. The money is provided through a NYS Dept. DOS, Division of Coastal Resource grant that is a matching grant. The town’s portion is $12,000. Six proposals were reviewed by a committee comprised of members of the Town Board, the Commission for the Conservation of the Environment, the Town Engineering Dept., the Recreation Advisory Board and NYS Dept. of State and Division of Coastal Resources.
A two-year contract with Kemira Water Solutions, which provides the Wastewater Dept. with ferrous chloride was renewed at the same price for
2007 and 2008. And the town accepted a bid from Allen Marine Services in the amount of $11,400 for the 2007 Water Intake Inspection and Cleaning.
Approval of $1500 to URS, subject to the approval of the Town Attorney, was granted for professional services relating to work to delineate the Conservation Easement along the rear yards of bordering homes in the Majestic Woods Subdivision.
Several items were referred back to the Town Board for review and consideration including a draft resolution that establishes qualifying activities for Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals training. Also referred back to the board was a memorandum on countermeasures for residential speed control submitted by the Traffic Safety Advisory Board.
Although the Town Board, in a workshop prior to the meeting, declared a negative declaration on a request by Concetta Farugia and Julian T. Archie to create a 3.61 acre lot at 2408 Love Road (part of a 119 acre parcel), the Board tabled approval of the exception to subdivision regulations on the advice of the Town Attorney.
A detailed 2006 bridge inspection report from the NYS Thruway Authority on the Staley Road and Bedell Road bridges was referred to the Town Engineer.
Maintenance of the bridges is shared by the town and the Thruway Dept.
During the public comment period, Scott Ferguson of Bishops Gate requested that the parking restrictions on Bishops Gate now in effect from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. be extended to noon.
In other business, the Board:
• Announced that the Western Erie Canal Alliance had sent an application
and information regarding the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor
2006/2007 Pilot Grants Program.
• Approved renewal of a special use permit for the keeping of two
agricultural animals by Carol Merckel of 2324 East River Road.
• Accepted with regret the resignation of Norman J. Mrkall from the Citizen
Corps Council.
• Announced that the Lions Club Spaghetti Dinner would be held March 9 from
5-8 p.m. at the Holiday Inn.
• Announced that the Academic Corporate Bowl sponsored by GISBA would be
held at GI High School Tuesday, March 13 with the final round set for March 20.
Unapproved Town Board Meeting Minutes - March 5, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes March 5, 2007 Meeting.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - February 5, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes February 5, 2007 Meeting.
Town Board Workshop Notice - March 7, 2007
A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 7, 2007 Re: Meeting with Court Staff.
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD
AGENDA – WORKSHOP #14
4:00 P.M. – Wednesday, March 7, 2007
I ROLL CALL
II AGENDA
A. COURTROOM SECURITY
B. EVICTION NOTICES
C. CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS
III ROUNDTABLE
IV NEXT MEETING
V ADJOURN
Town Board Workshop Agenda - March 5, 2007
Click for the Mar. 5, 2006 Town Board Workshop Agenda.
Town Board Meeting Agenda - March 5, 2007
Town Board Meeting #4 will take place 8 p.m. Monday, March 5, 2007.
Click for Mar. 5, 2006 Town Board Meeting Agenda.
Town Board Workshop Meeting - March 2, 2007
The following is the Grand Island Town Board Agenda Workshop #12 being held at 3:30 p.m. Friday, March 2, 2007:
I ROLL CALL
II 2007 CAPITAL BUDGET
III ROUNDTABLE
IV ADJOURN
Town Board Workshop Meeting
Grand Island Town Board Workshop Meeting 3:30 p.m. Friday, March 2, 2007 in the Town hall Conference Room Re: 2007 Capital Projects.
Town Board Action - 2007
Town Board Presents Well-deserved Proclamations
(left) Councilwoman Sue Argy, Supervisor Peter McMahon, Teddy Linenfelser, Councilwoman Mary Cooke and Councilman Dick Crawford.
Eagle Scout Travis James Zukic is shown with his brother and mother, as he shakes hands with Councilwoman Mary Cooke.
By Joelle Logue
Monday, February 5, 2007 . . .Town Historian and Isledegrande Editor Teddy Linenfelser was presented a
proclamation Monday honoring her mother, Marion Klingel, for a lifetime of
service to the Town of Grand Island. In commemoration of what would have
been her 100th birthday February 16, the Town Board is dedicating the Town
Common in Marion’s name and erecting a sign to that affect in a ceremony to
be held this summer. 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 editorial")
("see Proclamation")
Also honored Monday was Travis James Zukic, a member of Boy Scout Troop
630, who attained the rank of Eagle Scout. His project, leading to the
award, was refurbishing and building purple martin houses for Beaver Island
State Park. This took 200 man-hours of planning and leadership.
The Town Board declared February Disaster Preparedness Month by recognizing
members of the Grand Island Citizen Corps and Grand Island Community
Emergency Response Team. The mission of both organizations is to harness
the power of every individual through education and training, thereby
preparing them to be self-sufficient and able to help others in time of
disaster.
Two contracts have been extended between the town and State Office of
Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation regarding payment to the town
for water and wastewater at Beaver Island State Park. The rate for water
will be $3.74 per 1000 gallons of water and $8.03 per 1000 gallons of
sewage received, treated and disposed of by the town.
A change order resulting in a net increase of $19,059.02 to the Baseline
Master Lift Force Main Replacement and Pump Station Rehabilitation was
approved. The work includes labor and materials to adjust the final
contract quantities for road replacement, temporary road replacement,
asphalt driveway replacement, concrete driveway replacement, grit removal
from the wet well as well as costs associated with the rerouting of the
force main, paving the entrance drive to wastewater treatment plant, sump
pump piping modifications at the Baseline Master Lift Station (MLS),
installation of a relay panel at the Baseline MLS to transmit alarm signals
to the wastewater treatment plant, and a credit to the owner in engineering
costs due to the contractor’s delay.
A resolution was approved opposing unfunded NYS mandates. The resolution
outlines the fact that town government, the school district and taxpayers
were being inundated with mandates and costs that make the property tax
burden one of the most regressive in the country, and it calls for mandate
relief measures by legislators rescinding 19 NYCRR Part 1203 effective Jan.
1, 2007 and other unfunded mandates. It also asks for release of 54-g
monies to help financially support all local governments in NYS in the
administration and enforcement of NYS codes. The resolution will be
forwarded to the governor, leaders of the state legislature and Western New
York representatives.
In other business, the Town Board:
• Authorized the supervisor to sign the collective bargaining agreements
with Teamsters and CSEA subject to the approval of the town attorney.
• Appointed Peter C. Godfrey as Affirmative Action Officer for the year
2007.
• Created a new police officer (part-time) “A” at pay Grade 6 with a salary
range of $15.12 to $17.40 per hour, and to add a “B” to the existing
position at Grade 5.
• Appointed Jacquelyn McGinty as Clerk Part-time B, at Grade 3, Step A
effective Feb. 7.
• Changed Donna Jean McGilveary’s job title to Recreation Attendant
Part-time at Grade 1, Step B, effective from the date of hire.
• Named Thomas Dworak parts crew chief effective Feb. 14 subject to a
six-month trial period.
• Adopted a resolution approving the Niagara River Greenway Plan.
• Approved hiring Barbara Johnson as a cook’s helper (Recreation Attendant
Grade 1, Step B) at a rate of $7.18 per hour.
• Referred to the Town Board for review a resolution in support of Internet
Sex Offender Legislation.
• Referred to the Town Board and tabled by the applicant for 90 days a
petition to amend rezoning 131 Industrial Drive from M-1 to M2.
• Approved usage of the Town Hall Common area for a chicken barbecue May 19
for the Town Employee Relay for Life Team.
• Tabled until March 5 information on a plan to utilize a $4,200 state
grant for street tree planting, maintenance and inventory in response to
the October snowstorm.
• Authorized the preparation of specifications for the demolition of the
water tank/ Cingular tower at 85 Carl Road that will go out for bid with
half the cost to be borne by Velocitel Inc. representing Cingular Wireless.
Town Board Action - 2007
Town Okays Preliminary Plat for Waterford Park
By Joelle Logue
Monday, February 5, 2007 . . .Developers of Waterford Park Subdivision were given preliminary plat
approval by the Town Board Monday, with two conditions, one of which will
satisfy concerned neighbors who wanted a cut through to Revere Road. The
second condition insists on a recreational fee per lot because the town
determined there is inadequate area for a public park within the proposed
subdivision.
Prior to the action taken, neighbors of the proposed subdivision reiterated
their traffic and environmental concerns. Don Wilkinson, adamant about
insisting on a cut through to Revere Road, spoke to that issue. Keith
Hoffman asked the town to rescind SEQR and seek conservation easements next
to designated wetlands and detention and retention ponds. Dorothy Westhafer
felt vegetative buffers should be included in the project to help protect
the quality of streams from erosion and pollution, and she asked that
archaeological studies be done. Usage easements from this development to
the bike path and a sound stormwater management plan were other points
Westhafer spoke to.
Diane Evans called Grand Island a special place and asked the town board to
set high standards for development here such as wooded areas and bike
paths. Nan Hoffman, disappointed with the developers who wouldn’t consider
residents’ suggestions like cluster development, claimed that all the
developers were concerned about was turning a profit.
Councilwoman Mary Cooke, speaking at the end of the meeting, said decisions
made on Waterford Park were based on facts, well researched environmental
and traffic studies and she would be glad to share any of the reports with
concerned residents.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - January 16, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes January 16, 2007 Meeting.
Unapproved Town Board Meeting Minutes - February 5, 2007
Click for Unapproved Minutes February 5, 2007 Meeting.
Town Board Agenda Workshop - February 5, 2007
Town Board Agenda Workshop #10 will take place 6:30 p.m. Monday, February 5, 2007.
Click for Feb. 5, 2007 Town Board Agenda Workshop.
Town Board Meeting Agenda - February 5, 2007
Town Board Meeting #3 will take place 8 p.m. Monday, February 5, 2007.
Click for Feb. 5, 2006 Town Board Meeting Agenda.
Cable/Communications Committee To Hold Public Meeting - February 2007
Town Board liaison Gary Roesch has announced that the Cable/Communications Committee will hold a public meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday, February 15, 2007 in the upstairs court room at town hall. The purpose of the meeting is to solicit input from the residents pertaining to their concerns and recommendations regarding Cable service on Grand Island.
The Cable/Communications Committee has developed a wish list, Draft #3, derived from the advisory board meetings with Time Warner, input from the Town Board and School recommendations.
Town Board Workshop Meeting - January 30, 2007
A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will take place at 4 p.m. Tuesday, January 30, 2007 in the town hall - Re: Executive Session - Parks & Recreation Crew Chief Position
Town/County Tax Information - January 29, 2007
For complete town and county tax information, click "2007 TOWN/COUNTY
TAX NOTICE".
Town Board/School Board Joint Meeting - January 29, 2007
A Town Board/School Board
Joint Meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, January 29, 2007 at the Grand Island High School. "Jan. 29th Agenda".
Town Board Workshop Meeting - January 23, 2007
A Town Board Workshop Meeting will take place at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 23, 2007 in the conference room of town hall. The meeting is in regard to:
Executive Session with Town Attorney 3:30 p.m.
Meeting with Developers Re: Waterford Park 4:45p.m.
Town Board Action - 2007
Residents Reiterate Objections To Waterford Subdivision
By Joelle Logue
Tuesday, January 16, 2007 . . .At the beginning of Tuesday’s Town Board meeting, Supervisor Peter McMahon announced that no action would be taken on Waterford Subdivision because there would be another meeting with the developer and the town board regarding egress and ingress into the development. But residents were upset about the negative declaration on the State Environmental Quality Review for the project that was determined in the workshop prior to the meeting, and they spoke out.
Keith Hoffman questioned the negative declaration suggesting it should be a conditional negative declaration outlining the adverse affects of drainage, impacts on services (schools), and traffic. Nan Hoffman claimed there were too many unanswered questions with regard to the studies and she pointed out that the land adjacent to Waterford Park was once an oil tank field.
Don Wilkinson said he was concerned about the Planning Board’s recommendation to grant preliminary plat in accord with the developer’s desire not to cut Revere Road into Waterford. He said it was “disgusting” that everything seemed to be at the convenience of the developer rather than the citizens who elected the town board. He asked that all three stump streets be cut into the development, referring to Revere, Enola and Stony Point.
Barbara Stochmialek focused on the importance of all the wetlands in the subdivision, not just those jurisdictional ones protected by the Corps of Engineers but the isolated wetlands as well. Her concerns were about the lowland soil water and asked that Grand Island look into studies that Amherst did on soils in wet areas much like the land in the proposed Waterford development. She asked that full disclosure be made to potential homeowners about the wet land on which their homes were built and suggested further foundation studies be conducted.
Dick Seibert bemoaned the fact that Grand Island was losing its natural habitat and its claim as a rural community while Colleen Dannels worried about drainage and infrastructure and potential fire hazards. June Beeles pointed out that it was horribly dangerous to add another road in the S curve vicinity.
Supervisor Peter McMahon said he or any of the council members would be glad to meet with residents to go over the studies and answer questions. He pointed out that power lines would be underground, a detention pond built and he alluded to other concerns residents had that he felt were unfounded.
Town Board Action - 2007
Empire Dismantlement Corp. Rezoning Tabled
By Joelle Logue
Tuesday, January 16, 2007 . . .
Dave Mazur and James Dinsmore both made a case for the rezoning from M1 to
M2 of Empire Dismantlement Corp. at 131 Industrial Drive during a public hearing Tuesday, but the Town Board referred the re-zoning request to the Town Board for review. Mazur said the new business would bring 19 employees to the Island and Dinsmore said the new demolition business would be good for the town. But the Planning Board did not recommend the rezoning and stated the applicant purchased the property less than two years ago and knew what the zoning was at the time.
However, in another rezoning request, the Town Board gave the green light to Niagara Development Group to rezone 2.06 acres west of East River Road south of Whitehaven from R-2to R1-D to permit seven single family lots. The Planning Board, in a 5-1 vote, recommended to deny the request because it would be considered spot zoning since adjacent properties are zoned R-1C (larger lot size).
Two change orders to the Performance Service Contract were approved. One is a credit change order for project closeout that results in a net decrease in the amount of $2,531.74. Another is for additional work for the Water Treatment Plant SCADA system to include Whitehaven pump station pump control upgrades, a current isolator to clearwell level sensor, additional software, alarms and trending for the low lift and Whitehaven generator, gas detection input to the system from Whitehaven, and a spare modem for iDEN Network resulting in a net increase not to exceed $15,000.
As part of the Town’s Consent Agenda, letters from the state and county indicated that an application for a grant to fund the Scenic Woods Greenway Trail was turned down as were grants for a senior minibus and Love Road walk/path improvements.
In other business, the Town Board:
• Authorized the supervisor to sign the contract with Network Services for
town computers at a cost of $27,040.
• Created a new position of part-time clerk (B) at Grade 1 with the current
part-time clerk position, at Grade 3, to be come part-time clerk (A).
• Appointed Mary Witherspoon of Stony Point as part-time clerk (A) at Grade
1, effective Wednesday, January 17.
• Agreed to allow the town’s disaster coordinator and/or deputy coordinator
to participate in mutual aid countywide, and should a presidential declaration be made, payroll costs for providing assistance elsewhere would be recovered.
• Referred to the Town Board a request to change the speed limit on West
River Road from 40 mph to 30 mph.
• Referred to the Town Board a request to change the existing speed limit
and other modifications within Majestic Woods Subdivision.
• Announced that the town received a $5,848 Active Records Management Grant
form NYS Archives and that Margaret Butler has been hired to facilitate the grant through July 31, 2007.
• Referred to the Town Board the 2006 statistics for Animal Control.
• Gave site plan approval for the Dhafir residence at 1714 East River Road
to gain waterfront access by making a break in the metal guide rail to create a stone walk, stairs and a six ft. retaining wall.
• Approved the split and consolidation of a parcel of land by Dennis and
Shellie Herman Carder of East River Road contingent upon completed paperwork to be filed in the county clerk’s office.
• Gave site plan approval for a used car dealership by Grand Island Auto
Sales at 1725 Grand Island Blvd. contingent on striping the parking area and that no temporary or permanent structures be permitted.
• Approved utility easements for Golf Course Villas subject to the approval
of the town engineer and town attorney.
Town Board Action - 2007
LWRP Gets State Approval
By Joelle Logue
Tuesday, January 16, 2007 . . .Councilwoman Mary Cooke and Supervisor Peter McMahon announced Tuesday that the Town of Grand Island Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) had been given state approval. The town received a letter from New York Secretary of State Christopher Jacobs dated December 28, 2007 that said, pursuant to the Waterfront Revitalization of Coastal Areas and Inland Waterways Act, the town’s plan had been accepted. He commended the town for “developing a comprehensive management program that promotes balanced preservation, enhancement and utilization of the town’s valuable waterfront resources.”
State and Federal agencies must adhere to the plan, to the maximum extent practicable, in waterfront activities that may impact Grand Island such as the Niagara Greenway Project. Cooke stated that the plan took years to develop, but that the work was rewarding in that it will protect Grand Island’s waterfront from any adverse development.
Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - January 2, 2007
Click for Approved Minutes January 2, 2007 Meeting.
Unapproved Town Board Meeting Minutes - January 16, 2007
Click for Unapproved Minutes January 16, 2007 Meeting.
2007 Town/County
Tax Bills Mailed
Town Clerk Patricia Frentzel announced that the 2007 Town/County 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 or 600. The office will be open extras hours on Saturday February 10 - 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Wednesday February 14 - 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Thursday February 15, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Checks should be made payable to Town Clerk. The last day to pay without penalty is February 15. Envelopes must show a legible postmark of February 15 to be accepted on time. Taxpayers should call the office for correct amounts for payments made February 16 and later. Payments can be made until June 29, 2007. After this date, payments must be sent to the County.
ONLINE TAX RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS (SERVICE FEE DOES APPLY):
Click for "Tax Information 2007"
Part-Time Clerk Position Available - January 2007
Part-Time Clerk Position for the Zoning Board of Appeals and Zoning Department: this position is 19 hours per week as P/T Clerk in the Zoning Department. Duties include preparing agenda, minutes, legal notices, vouchers, notification of hearing letters, and correspondence. The job requires at least one evening meeting on the first Thursday of each month (Recording Secretary - ZBA). Microsoft Word, computer knowledge, and organizational skills required. Starting salary is $10.59 per hour. Please reply to:
The Town of Grand Island
Attention: Supervisor Peter McMahon
2255 Baseline Road
Grand Island, N.Y. 14072
Please include any relevant experience, education or training. Replies received on or before Monday, Jan. 22 will be considered. For additional information, contact any member of the Town Board.
Town Board Agenda Workshop - January 16, 2007
Town Board Agenda Workshop #5 will take place 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 16, 2007.
Click for Jan. 16, 2007 Town Board Agenda Workshop.
Town Board Meeting Agenda - January 16, 2007
Town Board Meeting #2 will take place 8 p.m. Tuesday, January 16, 2007.
Click for Jan. 16, 2007 Town Board Meeting Agenda.
Planning Board Workshop Meeting - January 8, 2007
A Grand Island Planning Board Workshop will take place at 7:30 p.m. Monday, January 8, 2007 in the down stairs conference room of town hall. Click for Jan. 8, 2007 Planning Board Meeting Agenda.
Town Board Workshop Meeting - January 8, 2007
A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will take place at 4 p.m. Monday, January 8, 2007 in the town hall Conference Room - Re: Executive Session with Town Attorney
Unapproved Town Board Meeting Minutes - January 2, 2007
Click for Unapproved Minutes January 2, 2007 Meeting.
Town Board Workshop - Jan. 3, 2007
Click for "Jan. 3, 2007 Workshop.".
Town Board Action - 2007
Town Reorganizes for 2007: Crawford Continues As Deputy Supervisor
By Joelle Logue
Tuesday, January 2, 2007 . . .Supervisor Peter McMahon again named Dick Crawford Jr. as his deputy supervisor during the town’s reorganization meeting held Tuesday, January 2. McMahon asked for and was granted a 60-day extension for filing the Supervisor’s Financial Report for the fiscal year 2006. He also appointed Elizabeth Zilbauer as his secretary for the new year.
The town board adopted three resolutions pertaining to methods of assessment for water, sewer and lighting. All operation and maintenance costs, net of water rents and other revenues shall be apportioned against the assessed land valuation of each of the properties or parcels of land within the Consolidated Water District. All lighting costs shall be apportioned against the properties in all districts of the town based upon the frontage of said property. The method for the apportionment of the capital construction and operation and maintenance costs of the Wastewater Treatment Plant facilities and sewer district lines and appurtenances is as follows: 100% of all net operation and maintenance costs and 10% of capital costs shall be apportioned to the water consumption of each of the properties or parcels of land within the town sewer districts and recovered as sewer rent; 90% of capital costs shall be apportioned against the assessed land valuation of each of the properties or parcels of land within the town sewer districts; where there is an accessible line frontage it shall bear an annual tax of 80 cents per front foot in the areas of the Consolidated Sewer District formerly known as Sewer District #4, except that lateral sewer lines installed by a real property developer such front foot charges shall not apply. Also, a charge per frontage feet in said former Sewer District #4 or those connected in the East River lateral to be determined by the county.
The town board also took action on the following:
• Set mileage at 48.5 cents per mile for town officials and town employees performing duties for the town.
• Authorized membership at the NYS Association of Towns Meeting in New York City by those department heads and/or elected officials with necessary funds in the budget; and authorized the supervisor to cast one vote for the town at the meeting. The alternate delegate is yet to be determined.
• Renewed the town’s membership in the Association of Erie County Governments, NYS Government Finance Officers Association, State Association of Municipal Purchasing Officers (SAMPO), the New York Planning Federation, and the Association of Towns of New York State.
• Adopted Rules and Procedures originally adopted Jan. 20, 1964 and amended January 18, 1988, May 19, 1997 and January 5, 2004.
• Set petty cash funds as follows – town clerk ($700), sewer and water ($150), town justices ($200), highway dept. ($125), recreation dept. ($100), Enrichment & Referral ($100).
• Announced town clerk’s office hours as 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 1-June 30 and Sept. 1-Dec. 31; 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. July 1-Aug. 31; closed on town designated holidays; special hours for tax collection to be announced.
• Set bond amounts for town personnel – supervisor ($250,000), town clerk ($250,000), deputy town clerks ($250,000), supervising accountant ($250,000), Court clerks – town justices ($100,000), and a blanket bond for each other bonded employee ($5000).
• Designated the Island Dispatch as the official newspaper for the town.
• Designated M&T Trust Company, HSBC Bank, MBIA CLASS, JP Morgan Chase Bank. Citizens Bank, First Niagara Commercial Bank and Bank of America as depositories for the town.
• Named Bonadio Group as audit counselors.
• Set the payroll date as every other Thursday, beginning Jan. 12
• Set town board meetings for the first and third Mondays of each month at 8 p.m. unless it falls on a holiday in which case it will be held on Tuesday. Workshops will precede the meetings at 6:30 p.m. There is no meeting the third Monday in February due to the Association of Towns conference.
• Designated Supervisor Peter McMahon as budget officer for the town, and as police commissioner and town liaison for the Grand Island Police Dept.
• Agreed to retain the law firm of Hodgson, Russ, Andrews, Woods & Goodyear LLP, Peter C. Godfrey, Esq. Of Counsel as attorneys for the town.
• Adopted an investment and procurement policy and adopted a fee schedule for 2007.
Supervisor & Town Board Appoint - 2007
By Joelle Logue
Tuesday, January 2, 2007 . . .The following appointments were made during the reorganization meeting of the town of Grand Island Tuesday.
Supervisor Peter McMahon named the following committees:
Audit: Chair Mary Cooke, Gary Roesch.
Personnel Committee: Supervisor Peter McMahon, Dick Crawford.
Sidewalk & Bike Path Committee: Chair McMahon, Town Engineer John Whitney, Traffic Safety Advisory Board member Lawrence Kieffer, Councilwoman Mary Cooke, Highway Supt. Ray Dlugokinski, Planning Board Chair Peter Morelock, Recreation Director Linda Tufillaro.
Special Districts: Chair McMahon, Mary Cooke, John Whitney, Dan Moran and Don Hoover from Water, and Wayne Clinton and Mike Braun from Wastewater.
Historic Preservation Committee: William Koch, Barbi Lare, Teddy Linenfelser, Shirley Luther, Joseph Macaluso, Sharon Nichols, Curtis Nestark.
Citizen Corps Council: Dorothy Bitner, Frank Brusino, Gregory Butcher, Hank Carroll, Maisie Dommell, James T. Glass, Carol Jones, Nancy Koch, Norman Mrkall, Richard Stoll, Stephen Stouter.
Town Board liaisons: Cooke (Environmental Conservation Board, Historical Preservation and Human Rights), Gary Roesch (Economic Development, Planning Board and Communications & Cable/Communication), Crawford (Traffic Safety Advisory Board, Library Trustees, Citizens Corps, Youth Board), Argy (Architectural Review Board, Community Enrichment and Parks & Recreation Board), McMahon (Long Range Planning Committee, Golden Age Club, Safety Committee).
Douglas Learman was re-appointed Code Enforcement Officer, Kevin Koch as Deputy Code Enforcement Officer and Michael Eisenhauer as Code Enforcement Officer B Part Time.
Town Attorney Peter Godfrey and Payroll Clerk Diane Nesbittwere appointed Harassment Complaint Officers.
Gregory Butcher was appointed Deputy Disaster Coordinator.
Teddy Linenfelser was re-appointed Town Historian for 2007.
It was announced that James Tomkins is Deputy Highway Superintendent effective January 1.
Advisory Board Appointments
• Architectural Review Board: John Butler for a five-year term expiring Dec. 31, 2011.
• Cable/Communications: Peter Bellanca and Mike Dlugosz reappointed to seven-year terms expiring Dec. 31, 2013.
• Commission for Conservation of the Environment: Dorothy Westhafer reappointed for a five-year term expiring Dec. 31, 2011.
• Community Enrichment: Thomas Butler, Danielle Gworek, Erin Koprevich and Dan Stinson reappointed for one-year terms expiring Dec. 31, 2007.
• Economic Development: John Bonora, Jerry Doane, Roy Gerard reappointed for three-year terms expiring Dec. 31, 2009.
• Human Rights: Mary Sommer reappointed for a five-year term expiring Dec. 31, 2011.
• Library Trustees: Scott Smith reappointed for a five-year term expiring Dec. 31, 2011.
• Parks & Recreation: Barbi Lare reappointed and Patti Loquasto appointed for five-year terms expiring Dec. 31, 2011.
• Planning Board: Robert Starzynski reappointed for a seven-year term expiring Dec. 31, 2013.
• Traffic Safety: Betty Harris and Christopher Pyc reappointed and Frank DelSignore appointed for three-year terms expiring Dec. 31, 2009.
• Zoning Board of Appeals: Marion Fabiano reappointed for a five-year term and Robert Mesmer as an alternate for a one-year term expiring Dec. 31, 2007.
Town Holidays Designated - 2007
By Joelle Logue
All town offices will be closed in observance of the following holidays, as set forth in the various union bargaining units:
Martin Luther King Day (Monday, Jan. 15), President’s Day (Monday, Feb. 19), Good Friday (1/2 day Friday, Apr. 6), Memorial Day (Monday, May 28), Independence Day (Wednesday, July 4), Labor Day (Monday, Sept. 3), Columbus Day (Monday, Oct. 8), Veterans Day (Thursday, Nov. 12), Thanksgiving and day after (Thursday & Friday, Nov. 22-23), Christmas Eve (Monday, Dec. 24 & Christmas Day, (Tuesday Dec. 25), New Year’s (1/2 day Monday, Dec. 31) and (Tuesday, Jan. 1).
Computer & Textiles Recycling Day Announced - 2007
By Joelle Logue
The City of Buffalo and Erie County will sponsor a computer and textile recycling day in the Buffalo Zoo Parking Lot (Jewett & Parkside), Saturday, January 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Household computer and electronic items being accepted include CPUs (hard drive), CRTs or monitors, keyboards and mice, printers, cell phones, rechargeable batteries, VCRs and DVD players. The cell phones will be donated to the Buffalo Zoo.
Old clothes and textiles will be accepted and reused at AMVETS retail locations. Those unable to be reused will be recycled. Items turned in should not be soiled.
For more information, call 858-6996 or check online at erie.gov.
Public Meeting will Air Niagara River Greenway Plans
Appointments & Approvals Made at Town Board Meeting - 2007
By Joelle Logue
A representative from the Greenway Commission will make a presentation on the project at 6:30 p.m.Tuesday, January 9 in the Golden Age Center, Nike Base, 3278 Whitehaven Road.
. All residents are urged to attend to hear how this project will impact Grand Island. Questions will be answered and comments will be heard. Councilwoman Mary Cooke suggested residents check out the plans on the Internet at niagaragreenway.org. (Website direction: PDF 9, 10, 11 and 12 of the Greenway Commission Plan: 9 - Executive Summary, 10 - Action Plan (Grand Island prominent p. 54-64), 11 - Figure 37 shows Grand Island projects, and 12 - DGEIS (Draft Generic Environmental Impact Statement)
Town Clerk Patricia Frentzel appointed Betty Lantz, Diane Darmofalski, and Karen Cooney as deputy town clerks and Sally Kaiser as part time clerk. Also, Lantz as deputy registrar and Darmofalski, Cooney and Kaiser as sub registrars.
In other business, the Town Board:
• Authorized the supervisor to sign a five-year contract with AFSCME Local 1783-A effective Jan. 1.
• Appointed Elizabeth Velocci as Account Clerk Typist at Grade 3 effective Jan. 3.
• Agreed to advertise for a part-time zoning clerk.
• Refunded $80 in agricultural permit fees to Raymond Fisher and Michael Wagner due to overcharges.
• Re-approved map covers for Fairway Greens Phase II, clusters 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, and 21 to be included in the naming of the private road, White Oak Terrace.
• Approved a special use renewal for a private airport, landing strip by Robert Mesmer.
• Approved the hiring of Donna Jean McGilveary as a part-time cook’s helper, Grade 1 Step B, at the Golden Age Center.
• Accepted with regret the resignation of Bob Cleveland from the Community Enrichment Council.
• Approved the following part-time winter hires in the Recreation Dept.: Casey Dahlstrom, Justin Wood, Morgan MacGuire, Ashleigh Freiday, and Lisa Kurpiewski (all at $7 per hour).
• Announced that the next Town Board meeting would be held Tuesday, Jan. 16 due to the Martin Luther King holiday on Monday, Jan. 15.
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