Town Board News - JANUARY-JUNE, 2005


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Town Facilities Improvements Added To Project - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, August 1, 2005 . . .Change orders amounting to an increased cost of some $83,000 were approved at Monday's town board meeting with monies coming from a healthy contingency budget line. Added to the Performance Service Contract that provides for energy-saving improvements and upgrades to the town’s facilities are as follows:
• $1,595 to furnish and install Spandrel panels in the State Police locker room.
• $19,690 for asbestos abatement caulking removals at Town Hall.
• $3,626 to provide labor, material and supervision for the VFD & Motors Sequence of Operations for pumps at the water and wastewater plants.
• $11,858 to provide for the 125 hp VSD (variable speed drives) in lieu of the 75 hp VSDs for pumps at water and wastewater plants.
• $51,814 to replace ceiling tile, grid, lighting fixtures and HVAC grilles/diffusers in the accounting area and new diffusers and lighting fixtures for the court room.
• $3,125 to remove and replace the 10-inch plug valve at the wastewater treatment plant.
• $4,200 for the initial inspection and evaluation of the Sluice Gate at the wastewater treatment plant.
   There were also change orders for credits of $4000 and $8400 for insurance credits.
   Town Clerk Patricia Frentzel was authorized to petition Erie County Board of Elections to allow consolidation of voting districts for Primary Election Day, September 13. The cost-saving effort would provide for all the opening of all polling places, but consolidate election districts thereby reducing the number of election inspectors and voting machines per location.
   Final plat approval of Hidden Oaks – Phase 2 (10 lots) was referred to the Planning Board following a public hearing at which developer Randon Hillock and Jim Dinsmore spoke in favor of the project. Hillock talked about the benefits of the project including the increased tax base and additional jobs, and how the Hidden Oaks subdivision had provided thousands of dollars for improvements at Buckhorn State Park.
   A request to close a portion of Park Place for a block party on August 7 from 1:30-8 p.m. was approved after a public hearing at which no one spoke.
   In other business, the board:
• Re-approved final plat for Majestic Woods Subdivision – Phase 2 and the map cover for Fairway Greens of River Oaks Phase II – Cluster 18.
• Accepted with regret the resignation of Hakin Hawramee as principal engineer assistant.
• Announced the hiring of Robert Westfall of Staley Road as Assistant Municipal Engineer at $24.75 per hour effective August 22.
• Accepted with regret the resignation of Joan James, part-time employee at the Senior Center and authorized advertising for her replacement.
• Granted a special use renewal for National Fuel Gas to operate a natural gas regulator/metering station at 1589 Stony Point Road.
• Approved the selling back of four weeks vacation time for David Stamler, a Highway Dept. employee.




Blue Star Service Banners For Families Of Active Military Personnel - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, August 1, 2005 . . .The American Legion Post 1346 is providing Blue Star Service Banners to be displayed in a window, or inside the home of a person currently serving in the Armed Forces. The banner is free for families of a service person who is deployed overseas and connected to Grand Island through home, school, etc. The cloth banners, blue star on a white field with a red border, are available by calling Dave Birt at 773-5300 or Shorty Vanthoff at 773-7915.
   The banner was designed and patented by a World War I Army officer in 1917 and became widely used on the home front in both World War I and World War II. The American Legion rekindled this program in 2001.
   More than one star may appear on the banner, each star representing an active duty service person in the family. A Gold Star commemorates the supreme sacrifice (one who died while serving in the Armed Forces. Workplaces, organizations and institutions may also display banners to honor their members called to serve in the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, active Reserve components and National Guard.




Town Adopts Waterfront Consistency Review Law - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, August 1, 2005 . . . In order to provide a framework for agencies of the town to consider policies and purposes contained in the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program for possible projects that impact the shoreline, the Town Board, Monday, adopted the Waterfront Consistency Review Law. The unanimous vote followed a public hearing at which no one spoke in favor or against the law.
   The intent of the law is to ensure a proper balance between the preservation of natural resources and the need to accommodate population growth and economic development in coastal areas.
   Listed below are 18 guidelines that would impact any projects or actions along the Grand Island shoreline:
1. Revitalize the deteriorated and underutilized waterfront areas of the Island.
2. Retain and promote commercial and recreational water-dependent uses.
3. Ensure that development occurs where adequate public infrastructure is available to reduce health and population hazards.
4. Expedite permit procedures trough coordinated actions and incorporation of new regulations within existing procedures.
5. Protect significant and locally important fish and wildlife habitats from human disruption and chemical contamination.
6. Minimize flooding and erosion hazards through non-structural means, carefully selected, long-term structural measures and appropriate siting of structures.
7. Safeguard economic, social and environmental interests in the coastal area when major actions are undertaken.
8. Maintain and improve public access to the shoreline and to water-related recreational facilities while protecting the environment.
9. Protect and restore historic and archeological resources.
10. Protect and upgrade scenic resources.
11. Site and construct energy facilities in a manner which will be compatible with the environment and contingent upon the need for a waterfront or water location.
12. Prevent ice management practices which could damage significant fish and wildlife and their habitat.
13. Prepare for the onshore impacts of exploration, extraction, transportation and storage of oil and gas that may be discovered.
14. Protect surface and groundwater from direct and indirect storage of pollutants and from overuse.
15. Perform dredging and place dredge spoil in a manner protective of natural resources.
16. Handle and dispose of solid and hazardous wastes and effluent in a manner which will not adversely affect the environment.
17. Protect air quality.
18. Protect freshwater wetlands.




Seneca Land Claim Appeal Denied - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Tuesday, July 19, 2005 . . .The United States Court of appeals for the 2nd Circuit denied a petition for a rehearing by the appellants in the Seneca Nation land claim of Grand Island and other islands in the Niagara River. The decision was rendered July 8 and leaves only one final option for the plaintiffs who include the Seneca Nation, the U.S. Department of Justice and others. They can file a petition for Certioriari to the U.S. Supreme Court that has the sole discretion about whether or not to hear the case.
   "We are certainly very pleased that the Court of Appeals has upheld the decision of the three judge panel. It moves us one step closer to the end of this issue," said Supervisor Peter McMahon who announced the decision at the end of Monday’s Town Board meeting.
   McMahon said in a release issued Monday that the Island "suffered significant economic damage as a direct result of this land claim, and he thanked the people of Grand Island for all their support and to the town board and legal advisors "to fight for what’s right."
   In September 2004, a three-judge panel from the 2nd Circuit upheld the decision of Federal District Court Judge Richard Arcara who dismissed the Seneca Nation land claim filed in the early 1990s.





Town Recreation Attendant Part-Time
Posted July 7, 2005
   Town of Grand Island - Reality Cafe is seeking qualified candidates to provide supervision, site management of facility safety standards. A youth center environment schedule includes Thursday, Friday and/or Saturday evenings, 3 to 5 hours per night. Desirable qualifications include a College Degree and experience working with young adults. Mail letter of interest including qualifications to:
Town Supervisor Peter McMahon
2255 Baseline Road
Grand Island, New York 10472
Letters received prior to July 22, 2005 will be considered.




Planning Board Agenda - July 11, 2005 Meeting
   For the Planning Board Meeting Agenda for the 7:30 p.m., Monday, July 11, 2005 meeting, click Planning Board 7/11/05




Unapproved Town Board Meeting Minutes - July 5, 2005
   Click for Unapproved Minutes July 5 Meeting.




Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - June 20, 2005
   Click for Unapproved Minutes June 20 Meeting.




Traffic Signal Sought For Staley & Baseline Roads - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Tuesday, July 6, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .Councilman Dick Crawford, board liaison to the Traffic Safety Advisory Board, announced Tuesday that the county has given preliminary approval for a three-color traffic signal at Staley Road and the Baseline Road. Within the last 12 months there have been five right angle accidents at this location. A letter from Mary Machelor in support of a stop light was referred to at Tuesday’s Town Board meeting. She wrote that “traffic is very heavy particularly during shift changes at the three companies located on Staley Road: Astellas Pharma Manufacturing, American Pharmaceutical Partners and Gibco.” Joseph Lukasiewicz spoke about his own accident at that intersection and vowed to support any effort to get a light there.
   An amendment to the bond resolution for the Veterans Park Enhancement Project was adopted Tuesday. The amount of money bonded remains at $350,000 with the amendment recognizing actual costs at $410,000 for the construction of two softball fields complete with drainage, fencing, backstops and skinned infields; the construction of additional asphalt parking area for approximately 80 vehicles, and the landscaping of 12 acres of grassed lawn areas between and around athletic fields.
   In action items regarding Park Place Subdivision, the board accepted the annexed Deed of Dedication of a town highway to be known as part of Park Place – VI subject to approval of the town engineer, town attorney and the highway superintendent. The board also accepted turnaround public drainage, sanitary sewer and easements for the Park Place Subdivision – VI subject to approval of the town attorney.
   A public hearing will be held July 18 at 8 p.m. regarding Paul Long’s petition to amend the zoning map. He requests turning his boat house into a residence and asks for rezoning of the 359 East River Road property from B2 to R-1E.
   In other business, the board:
• Awarded the bituminous resurfacing bid for various town roads to Amherst Paving at a cost of $203,673.
• Approved a special use renewal for Sandy Beach Yacht Club parking lot at 1851 Winter Road.
• Approved a special use renewal for the keeping of three agricultural animals by Florence Prawel at 993 Whitehaven Road.



Town Takes Stand On Pension Reform, Megan’s Law - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Tuesday, July 6, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .
The Town Board, Tuesday, authorized Supervisor Peter McMahon to draft letters in support of three different issues.
   Resolutions from the Towns of Lancaster, Clarence, West Seneca, Concord, Brand and Elma are recommending changes in the NYS Retirement System. Supervisor McMahon will draft a letter in support of pension reform that includes the establishment of Tier V (employee contributions beyond the 10-year requirement to alleviate future costs for municipalities) and a possible change from defined benefit to money purchase and/or lower benefits.
   Supervisor McMahon will also draft a letter in support of strengthening sex offender legislation, joining the towns of Amherst and Elma in the effort to put more teeth in Megan’s Law. Recommendations include a provision for civil confinement and a GPS tracking system for the most dangerous offenders, and prohibit sex offenders from living within 1,000 feet of a school or school grounds. In addition, law enforcement would be required rather than permitted to release information on Level 2 and Level 3 offenders and the DCJS web site would be expanded to include information on all sex offenders.
   Both letters will be approved and signed by the entire Town Board and sent to Governor Pataki, Senate Majority Leader Bruno, Assembly Speaker Silver, Comptroller Hevesi, Senator Brown and Assemblyman Hoyt.
   A third letter to be drafted by Supervisor McMahon concerns support for a pending petition regarding preservation of municipal authority pertaining to Verizon’s construction of a fiber-to-premises network in the town. Presently, the town is doing business with Adelphia for TV cable with Adelphia paying a franchise fee of $80,000. Adelphia wants to be sure that Verizon be obligated to secure a cable television franchise prior to being allowed to construct the fiber-to-premises network.




Friends of Lynnette Recognized By Town Board - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Tuesday, July 6, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .A large contingent of Friends of Lynnette was on hand Tuesday night to receive a proclamation recognizing the 12th annual Friends of Lynette Bike Tour that will be held Saturday, July 16. The tour honors the memory of Lynnette Grisanti and her grandson Billy Gugino Jr. both of whom succumbed to cancer. All proceeds from the tour benefit the Friends of Children with Cancer at Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
   The proclamation stated that more than 550,000 Americans die each year from cancer and urged residents to support the worthy cause in declaring July 16 as Friends of Lynnette Bike Tour Day.




NOTICE OF REZONING - July 2005 Meeting
   For Notice of Rezoning property at 359 East River Road, click 359 East River Road.




NOTICE OF BOND RESOLUTION - July 2005 Meeting
    Click Bond Resolution - Veterans Park




Town Board Meeting Agenda - July 5, 2005
   A Grand Island Town Board meeting #11 will be held at 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 5, 2005 in the Town Hall. Click for July 5 Meeting Agenda.




Cooperative Effort To Improve Park - July 2005

Grace Kulikowski (left) and Mary Kneer - (right photo) John Kneer (father of Mary), Councilman Dan Robillard, Councilwoman Mary Cooke, Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel, Mary Kneer, Grace Kulikowski, Supervisor Peter McMahon, Kevin Kulikowski (father of Grace), Invitrogen Coordinator Lori Nestler, Recreation Department Director Linda Tufillaro, and Councilmen Gary Roesch and Richard Crawford.
Jodi Robinson Photo - Click for larger view
   Earlier this year two young residents in the area of Colonial Drive wrote to Town Supervisor Peter A. McMahon requesting permission to make some improvements to the Town's playground in their neighborhood. At about the same time, the employees at Invitrogen contacted the Town to see if there were any Town projects which they could work on as part of their Corporate Global Volunteer Day.
   Grace Kulikowski and Mary Kneer, shown above, along with some of their friends and neighbors, employees at Invitrogen and the Town of Grand Island have agreed to the playground improvement project. A meeting was held Thursday morning, June 30, 2005 at the Colonial Drive playground where the girls asked the town officials questions about their plans for fixing up their park. Their long list of concerns included wiping away graffiti, cleaning up a ditch, replacing a sign that read, "automobiles, motorcycle, and four-wheelers prohibited," adding "thinking" places, and fixing up a tree house. "This really means a lot to us because we would like the park to stay alive for years to come," the girls wrote in a letter to the supervisor.
   Lori Nestler of Invitrogen is heading up this year's Global Volunteer Day on Thursday, July 28, 2005 and bringing 10-15 volunteers to help spruce up the Colonial Drive Playground. Grace and Mary are going to make flyers to be passed around the neighborhood to encourage others to join the volunteers.





Public Hearing - July 7, 2005
   For the purpose of hearing objections to or for the granting of appeals, the Zoning Board of Appeals will hold the following public hearing on July 7, 2005 at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall. The following variance will be considered:
• Todd Tollner, a variance to construct a deck with less side yard setback than required at 2975 Stony Point Rd.
• Kevin Ullrich, a variance to construct a porch with less side yard and front yard set back at 55 Williams Road
• Paul Ackendorf, for a variance to replace an existing fence with a new privacy fence with less front/side yard set back than required at 3021 Baseline Road
• Richard Mawkowski, for a variance to construct a garage at 3002 Sunset Dr.
• Vincent Spada, for a variance to construct a garage at 458 Ransom Road
• Gary Lash, for a variance to construct a roof structure over a front porch at 276 Laurie Lane
• Rich and Lois Taylor, for the construction of an addition to the front of the home with less front yard set back at 1472 East River Road.
• Erik Carlson, for the construction of a garage at 2543 Love Road
• Kenneth Sondel, for the construction of a pole barn to keep equine animals at 2743 Staley Road
• Scott Thompson, for the construction of a deck in the front yard set back at 2712 East River Road
• Edwin Kitow, for the construction of a home 12' into the front yard setback at 2632 East River Road


LEGAL NOTICE - July 2005
   Notice is hereby given that pursuant to a Resolution of the Town Board of the Town of Grand Island, Erie County, New York, sealed Proposals will be received and considered by the Town Board on July 13, 2005 at 10:00 A.M. Local Time at the Town Hall for furnishing all materials and equipment together with all labor for the reconstruction of the Town Highway Garage parking lot in the Town of Grand Island, New York. Click for Legal Notice Regarding Town Highway Garage Parking Lot .




Town Board Workshop June 30 - 2005
   A Town Board Workshop is scheduled for Thurs. June 30, 2005 at 8:30 a.m. at the Colonial Drive Playground regarding Invitrogen Cleanup.




Fireworks To Light Up The Skies On The 4th - 2005

Shown from left during the River Lea Gates Proclamation are Councilman Dan Robillard, Supervisor Peter McMahon, Historical Society members Barbara Birt and Maisie Dommell, and Councilmembers Mary Cooke and Dick Crawford.
Mary Stewart Photo - Click photo for larger view
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, June 20, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .The Town Board, Monday, announced that Astellas has donated $5000 to the Town to add to the Fantasy Island fireworks display scheduled for dusk Monday, July 4. Motions were made to have Supervisor Peter McMahon sign the contract with Skylighters of WNY, the company that will set off the display, and to issue a permit for the public display. The rain date for the fireworks is Tuesday, July 5.
   In other July 4th matters, the Town Board agreed to deny vendors access to the Town Commons during the Independence Day parade and made the following amendments to the Peddlers Special Permit. Changes state that vendors must obtain permits five days prior to the parade; that a $10 non-refundable application fee and $10 fee for each worker must be paid at the time of application, that silly string and snap crack are prohibitive items, and that certificates of insurance and credible ID must be provided.
   A proclamation honoring the Grand Island Historical Society was presented to Society members Barbara Birt and Maisie Dommell for efforts in having River Lea’s historic gates returned, restored and installed back in Beaver Island State Park, home of River Lea. A ceremony to re-dedicate the gates was held Wednesday, June 22. Assisting the Historical Society with the project were Matthew Makowski of Modern Disposal, the Grand Island Garden Center, and the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
   An agreement between the Town and the Buffalo & Erie County Workforce Development Consortium will add four summer youth workers to the Town – two for Town Hall and two for the Recreation Department. Dates of employment are July 1 through August 30, 2005.
   Upon recommendation from the Traffic Safety Advisory Board, the county will be asked to consider a speed reduction on Webb Road, to determine if a traffic light is needed at Staley and Baseline and to consider taking down a stop sign at Bonnywoods and Forest Creek until some later date when it may be needed.
   In a workshop, held prior to Town Board meeting, the board authorized Supervisor McMahon to sign a memorandum of understanding with the CSEA Union regarding the fact the town does not have a Director of Water & Wastewater, and work normally allocated to that position is being done by others.
   In other business, the board:
• Acknowledged an Occupational Safety & Health grant in the amount of $9,655 and authorized the supervisor to sign the contract.
• Agreed to advertise for bids on the highway garage parking lot reconstruction with bids to be opened on July 13 at 10 a.m.
• Approved a revised site plan at Pinto Construction, 2409 Whitehaven Road, for the construction of a 30x60 ft. covered loading dock addition to the front of Building “B”
• Approved a tower permit for Omnipoint Communications to extend its tower 10 feet at 3078 Staley Road.
• Granted a special use renewal for the keeping of two horses by Thomas Thompson at 2487 Long Road.
• Agreed to abandon the town’s interest is paper street, First St., upon the request of Joseph and Mary Ognibene, 3427 West River Road, subject to the approval of the town attorney and Highway Superintendent.
• Accepted the resignation of Paul Leuchner from the Traffic Safety Advisory Board.
• Granted conditional plat approval for Park Place Subdivision – Phase VIII, extending Bonny Woods Crossing out to Whitehaven Road.
• Acknowledged that a new contract was signed with the county for snow removal at a cost increase of 9 percent.




Town Urges Citizens To Support Efforts To Save Niagara Falls Air Base - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, June 20, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .The Town Board adopted a resolution Monday in support of the WNY Congressional Delegation’s fight to keep the Niagara Air Reserve Station open, and urged citizens to add their voices. Letters of support are available online at NIMAC.org and at the Town Clerk’s Office or Charles N. DeGlopper Post #9249 Veterans of Foreign Wars. Letters may also be left at the Town Hall or be mailed to NIMAC, P. O. Box 231, Niagara Falls 14303-0231. Residents are encouraged to attend scheduled rallies and attend the hearing on June 27, 2005 to show the BRAC Commission that the Niagara Air Reserve Station has strong community support.
   The resolution cited the fact that the 914th Airlift Wing of the Air Force Reserve and the 107th Refueling Wing of the NY Air National Guard were both heavily utilized during the current war in Iraq, efforts in Afghanistan and Bosnia plus numerous other relief efforts worldwide. It also cited its proximity to New York’s largest electric generating facility and its strategic location in the war on terrorism.
   Closure of the Base would eliminate the last Federal Air Force flying mission in the state. The resolution also cited that since 1995, some $35 million has been invested in the Station to add new facilities, lengthen runways and improve energy efficiency.




Fuccillo Master Plan Approved - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, June 20, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .Approval for the full build-out of the Fuccillo Automotive Group on Alvin Road was approved Monday with Phase I of the final three dealerships being Hyundai, a 32,350 sq. ft. building on 11 acres. Chevrolet and Toyota dealerships are already completed. The setback for Hyundai will be the same as the other two dealerships and two storm water detention basins will be separated by a driveway.
   Attorney Robert Scalione, attorney for the Fuccillo Group, explained at the Planning Board meeting June 15 that because of the contract price of real estate, Fuccillo would have to develop three sites. He added that when you place one manufacturer on the road, you have to put everyone on the road since each wants to market his product the same way.
   Land, bought from Joe and Mary Marino, approximately 87.28 acres contains 13.37 acres of wetlands (9.95 acres are state regulated wetlands and 3.42 are federal wetlands). As compensation for the 1.82 acres of wetlands impacted by Hyundai, Fuccillo will construct approximately 4.05 acres of onsite mitigation adjacent to other wetlands. The Army Corps of Engineers suggested Fuccillo consider alternative sites, but Fuccillo prefers Alvin Road.
   The Town Board approved the Master Plan with the following restrictions – that display areas must be on pavement and that Fuccillo provide a bond that would adequately handle any repair or road damage. The Town is worried about the overall condition of Alvin Road that was not built to handle heavy traffic, but a grant to upgrade the road is being sought. The remaining two dealerships will be on 11 acres and 13 acres, respectively.




Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - 2005
   Click for Approved Minutes June 6, 2005 Meeting.




Unapproved Town Board Meeting Minutes - June 20, 2005
   Click for Unapproved Minutes June 20 Meeting.




Town Board Meeting Agenda - June 20, 2005
   A Grand Island Town Board meeting #11 will be held at 8 p.m. Monday, June 20, 2005 in the Town Hall. Click for June 20 Meeting Agenda.




LEGAL NOTICE - June 2005
   Notice is hereby given that pursuant to a Resolution of the Town Board of the Town of Grand Island, Erie County, New York, sealed Proposals will be received and considered by the Town Board on June 29, 2005 at 10:00 A.M. Local Time at the Town Hall for furnishing all materials and equipment together with all labor for the bituminous resurfacing of various town roads in the Town of Grand Island, New York.
   The Proposals will be received in accordance with the Plans and Specifications prepared by the Town Engineering Department all of which are on file with the Town Clerk at her office in the Town Hall, Grand Island, New York, where same may be examined during the usual business hours.
   Copies of said Drawing and Specifications may be obtained for the sum of a $25.00 deposit at the office of the Town Clerk, Town of Grand Island, 2255 Baseline Road, Grand Island, New York 14072 on or after June 17, 2005 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. The deposit for each set will be refunded upon return of the Contract Documents in good condition within seven (7) days following the opening of Bids.
   The Town of Grand Island reserves the right to reject any and all Bids, or waive any informalities, or to make an award to the lowest responsible Bidder.
   Each Proposal must be accompanied by cash, Certified Check payable to the Town of Grand Island, or Bid Bond having a surety thereon from a surety company acceptable to the Town Attorney, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the Base Bid, conditioned that if the Proposal is accepted, the Contractor will enter into a Contract for the same, for the faithful performance of the Contract.
   No Bidder may withdraw his Bid within forty-five days after the date set for the opening thereof, but may withdraw same at any time prior to the scheduled time for the opening of Bids.
   Each Bid Proposal must be submitted in the complete bound Specification Booklet Form with Bid Bond attached, enclosed in a sealed envelope addressed to the Town of Grand Island. On the outside of the envelope, clearly label “Job No. M-14-2005, Town Highway Resurfacing” and indicate name, and address of Bidder. Proposals not meeting the above format will be unacceptable.
Patricia A. Frentzel
Town of Grand Island
Publish: June 17, 2005


Planning Board Agenda - June 13, 2005 Meeting
   For the Planning Board Meeting Agenda for the 7:30 p.m., Monday, June 13, 2005 meeting, click Planning Board 6/13/05




Unapproved Town Board Meeting Minutes - June 6, 2005
   Click for Unapproved Minutes June 6 Meeting.




Dorothy Bitner Recognized At Town Board Meeting - June 6, 2005

Mary Stewart Photo - Click for larger view
   The Grand Island town board, by proclamation, recognized Dorothy Bitner's long history of giving generously of her time to various activities which benefit the Town of Grand Island and its residents. She has been a faithful, dedicated servant on the community's Traffic Safety Advisory Board for thirty years including seven years as its chair. She has received the Erie County Traffic Safety Board's 2005 William G. Payne Memorial Award in recognition of exemplary commitment to traffic safety. The Town Board extended its sincerest thanks to Dorothy for all the things she's done to help this community.




Proclamation For Relay For Life Read At Town Board Meeting - 2005

Mary Stewart Photo - Click for larger view
   A proclamation was read at the Monday, June 6, 2005 Town Board Meeting regarding the fact that in its twenty-year history, Relay for Life has honored more than 500,000 cancer survivors and raised approximately $300 million dollars for cancer research; and that Grand Island will hold its third Annual Relay for Life on June 10 and 11, 2005 with over fifty teams participating, having fun, and working toward the goal of raising $25,000. The proclamation, read by Supervisor Peter A. McMahon, ended with: Be It Further Resolved, that this same Town Board encourages all Grand Islanders to support, to participate in and to enjoy the entertainment the Relay offers for a very worthy cause.




Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel Registers High School Seniors To Vote - June 2005

Click photo for larger view.
Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel with senior Kathryn Figliotti.
 Jodi Robinson photo
    In a long standing tradition, Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel spent the morning of Tuesday, June 7, 2005 in the High School senior cafeteria registering seniors to vote. Seniors who are eighteen or will be during the calendar year of 2005 are eligible to register. The Town Clerk later reported that 44 students registered to vote.




Bond Resolution, Resurfacing Island Roads - 2005
   Click for NOTICE OF BOND RESOLUTION.




Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - 2005
   Click for Approved Minutes May 16 Meeting.




Town Board Workshop Cancelled - 2005
   The Town Board Workshop scheduled for Thurs. June 9th at 3:30 p.m. with the Sign Ordinance Committee has been CANCELLED.
   There is a new Town Board Workshop scheduled for Wednesday, June 15th at 3:30 p.m. with the Sign Ordinance Committee and a Town Board Workshop on Tuesday, June 21st at 3:30 p.m. with General Code Publishers.


2005 Town/County Tax Bill Information - 2005
   Town Clerk Patricia Frentzel reminds taxpayers that June 30, 2005 is the last day town/county tax payments can be made to the Town Clerk’s office. 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. Checks should be made payable to Town Clerk. Taxpayers should call the office for correct balance due. Personal checks are not accepted after June 15 and payments may be made until June 30, 2005. After this date, payments must be sent to the County.


Town Board Workshop Agenda - June 6, 2005
   A Grand Island Town Board Workshop #31 will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 6, 2005 in the town hall conference room. Click for June 6 Workshop Meeting Agenda.






Town Board Meeting Agenda - June 6, 2005
   A Grand Island Town Board meeting #10 will be held at 8 p.m. Monday, June 6, 2005 in the Town Hall. Click for June 6 Meeting Agenda.




Window Replacement At Town Hall - 2005
Jodi Robinson Photos - Click photos for larger view
   The window replacement project taking place at Town Hall was photographed today (June 2, 2005) by Isledegrande.com staffer Jodi Robinson. The weather has been most cooperative and it is very dramatic when whole, large panels are out of the building. The window replacement is part of the energy performance contract that also includes the water meter replacement, various lighting and other electrical improvements in several town buildings and traffic signal upgrades.




Town Board Workshops - June 2005 Meetings
   Town Board Workshops scheduled for the month of June
• Zoning Amendments - June 2 - 3:30 p.m.
• Regular before mtg. - June 6 - 6:30 p.m.
• Sign Ordinance - June 9 - 3:30 p.m.
• LWRP - June 13 - 3:30 p.m.
• Waste Management - June 14 - 3:30 p.m.
• SEQR - June 15 - 8:45 a.m.
• Regular before meeting - June 20 - 6:30 p.m.
• LWRP - June 22 - 3:30 p.m.


Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - May 2, 2005
   Click for Approved Minutes May 2 Meeting.




Town Hall Employees Hold Fundraising Luncheon - 2005
Organizer, Lynn Dingey, James Soto and Mom, Mary Jo Linenfelser Soto
Click photo for larger view
   The employees at Grand Island Town Hall love lunch and doing a good deed. Lynn Dingey organized a fundraising luncheon on Tuesday, May 17, 2005 in the upper foyer to benefit Cystic Fibrosis and her nephew, James Soto. James was born on December 28, 2004 and within two weeks was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis. As long as he takes his medicine that allows him to digest his food, he is in good shape. Mom, Mary Jo Soto, believes he has an excellent prognosis due to the early diagnosis.
   The employees were asked to bring dishes to pass and to wear orange. Over $300 was raised and will donated at the Great Strides Walk for Cystic Fibrosis being held at Veteran's Park in Tonawanda at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 21, 2005. For more information go to www.cff.org.




Town Approves Woods Creek Store/Gas Station - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, May 16, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . . After five years of consideration and deliberation marked by several public hearings, three traffic studies and environmental impact studies, the Town Board, Monday, unanimously approved the site plan and issued a special use permit for the Woods Creek convenience store and gas station, a Parkland Enterprises project. Located on the northeast corner of Ransom Road and Stony Point Roads, the project, especially the gas station component, had been vigorously opposed by a group of Concerned Citizens of Grand Island.
   Concerned by safety issues around increased traffic with the project so close to the schools and the gas station in general, these citizens led by Frank Burkhart and Kim Tetreault expressed their disappointment with the board's decision. They had proposed the widening of Woods Creek to help with drainage and felt a gas station was inappropriate in a residential area. The DEC felt the widening of the creek was unnecessary and under new zoning laws, the area at Ransom and Stony Point roads is deemed a hamlet and allows for commercial development.
   In recent months the Concerned Citizens advocated for special provisions that called for the removal of the gas tanks and canopy should the gas station close. A request by the Citizens for the convenience store roof design (sloping in nature) to match the day care center was stipulated by the Town Board in the special use permit and will help with the aesthetics of the project. Further traffic studies as the project develops are promised by the Town Board, members of whom countered on comments made by Burkhart and Tetreault. Supervisor Peter McMahon claimed the Concerned Citizens were very much involved with the project and that every step taken in the decision process was very public. He added that the store/gas station going in is a much better project because of their involvement.




VFW Buddy Poppy Days Declared - 2005

Shown from left are Councilman Dan Robillard, Honor Guard Captain Gerry Korzen, Councilman Gary Roesch, Ladies Auxiliary Senior Vice President Sue McMahon, Ladies Auxiliary President Kathy Blake, Supervisor Peter McMahon, Buddy Poppy Chairman Wally Wigdorski, Bernie Brice, Councilman Dick Crawford, Senior Vice Commander Mike Cutini, Councilwoman Mary Cooke, and Lee Becker.
   Joe Synakowski Photo - Click photo for larger view
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, May 16, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . . Members of the Grand Island VFW Post 9249 and the VFW Auxiliary were on hand Monday to receive a proclamation declaring May 26, 27 and 28 VFW Buddy Poppy Days on Grand Island. Sales of Buddy Poppies, assembled by disabled veterans with proceeds benefiting widows and orphans of deceased veterans and for disabled and needy veterans at the National Home in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, will take place around town at banks, Tops and other public places. Patriotic citizens are requested to wear the Buddy Poppy, especially on Memorial Day, as a symbol of their gratitude to men and women who have risked their lives on the battlefront.
   Memorial Day Ceremonies will be held at 10 a.m. on Memorial Day at Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Park, Grand Island Blvd. and Baseline Road, following a VFW presence at each of the Island cemeteries in honor of deceased veterans.




Changes To Speed Limits Recommended For Isle Roads - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, May 16, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . . Traffic Safety Advisory Board liaison Dick Crawford requested the Town to submit TE-9's to Erie County for consideration of reducing speed limits in five areas of the Town. If approved by the county, there would be a reduction of the speed limit from 55 mph to 45 mph on Alvin Road. On Baseline Road from Webb Road to the intersection of Bedell Road, the request is to reduce the speed limit from 45 to 35. Others are: Long Road from Grand Island Boulevard to West River Road (55 to 40); Whitehaven Road (from 55 to 45); Bush Road between Baseline and West River roads (55 to 40); Ransom Road between Sturbridge and East River roads (55 to 45).
   A change in water/wastewater personnel affected a request to hire two part-time seasonal employees as laborers to work in the water department effective June 6. It was resolved Monday that Wayne Clinton, temporarily Director of Water/Wastewater, will return to the position of Water Superintendent. It was, therefore, decided that Water Crew Chief Don Hoover would interview candidates and recommend two to the Town Board. If there are no returning candidates, the Town Board authorized advertising for the part-time positions.
   Supervisor Peter McMahon was authorized to write a letter in support of pending Collateral Source legislation that would allow municipalities, sued by their own employees, to offset awards for future lost earnings made to those employees with payments from disability pensions and other collateral sources of compensation. Currently, negligence damages recovered against a municipality by its employees are not reduced by the amount of the employee's disability pension. This often results in an employee being compensated twice for future lost earnings.
   The Town Board authorized the supervisor to sign a lease with Chem Isle, LLC at 2801 Long Road where the Town's Economic Development Committee leases space for $1 a year to hold open meetings and trainings. The action is subject to a 30-day permissive referendum.
   Because of a healthy fund balance, the Town Board approved the transfer of $151,475 to the Highway Fund for the purchase of a cab, chassis and snowplow rather than proposing a bond for the expense.
   In other business, the board:
• Appointed James Pedlow of Wallace Drive to the position of Water Plant Helper at the rate of $20.98.
• Authorized the closing of Whitehaven Road from Grand Island Boulevard to Baseline Road and assign one police officer from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to accommodate activities related to the Chamber of Commerce's Isle Happenings and KidBiz.
• Renewed a special use permit allowing agricultural use of their land for Dan and Marge Robillard at 423 Ransom Road.
• Issued a special use permit for the keeping of four agricultural animals by Jayne Schaber at 394 Ransom Road following a public hearing at which no one spoke.
• Approved the changing of property lines at 2296 and 2266 West Oakfield Road owned by Robert and Elizabeth Lutnick.
• Granted final plat approval for Park Place Subdivision - Phase VI.
• Appointed Sam Akinbami of West River Road to the Erie County Environmental Management Council with his term to expire in May of 2007.
• Accepted the resignations, with regret, of Betty Harris from the Public Safety Board and Anne Ehlert from the Traffic Safety Advisory Board.
• Authorized the Professional Services agreement with URS Corporation for the Grand Island Blvd. sanitary sewer construction to be accomplished with funds in the 2005 Capital Plan.
• Approved the hiring of 25 part-time seasonal employees for the Recreation Dept.'s summer program.
• Authorized the supervisor to sign the contract with the agency providing administration and operation services for the GIFTS program.
• Set June 9 as Assessment Grievance Day for the Board of Assessment Review hearings.




Public Notice - May 16, 2005
   PEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT on the 16th day of May 2005, the Town Board of the Town of Grand Island adopted a resolution, subject to permissive referendum, to authorize the Supervisor to sign the lease agreement with IsleChem.


Town Board Meeting Agenda - May 16, 2005
   A Grand Island Town Board meeting #9 will be held at 8 p.m. Monday, May 16, 2005 in the Town Hall. Click for May 16 Meeting Agenda.




Town Board Workshop Meeting Agenda - May 16, 2005 Meeting
   A Grand Island Town Board Workshop #27 will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, May 16, 2005 in the Town Hall. Click for Workshop #27 Agenda.




MEETING NOTICE
Town Board Workshop - June 2, 2005
   A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, June 2, 2005 in the town hall conference room - Re: Zoning Code Amendments


Unapproved Town Board Meeting Minutes - May 2, 2005
   Click for Unapproved Minutes May 2 Meeting.




Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - April 18, 2005
   Click for Approved Minutes April 18 Meeting.




LEGAL NOTICE - 2005
APPLICATION FOR SPECIAL USE PERMIT
UNDER THE BUILDING ZONE ORDINANCE CHAPTER 49-130
   NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held by the Town Board of the Town of Grand Island, Erie County, New York, on MONDAY, MAY 16, 2005 AT 8:00 P.M. in the Town Hall 2255 Baseline Road to consider an application by Jayne Schaber, 394 Ransom Road, Grand Island, New York 14072 for authorization by the Town Board for a Permit for Special Use Keeping of Up to 4 Equine Animals by the Town of Grand Island Building Zone Ordinance, on premises in an R-1B zoning district located at: 394 Ransom Road, Grand Island, NY 14072. All interested persons may attend at said time and place and be heard thereon. By Order of the Town Board of the Town of Grand Island




Town Board Workshops - May 16, May 17 - 2005
   A Town Board Workshop will be held Monday, May 16, 2005 at 3:30 p.m. in the conference room with the Management of Waste Management regarding residential garbage collection.
   A Town Board Workshop will be held Tuesday, May 17, 2005 at 3:30 p.m. in the conference room regarding the Local Waterfront Revitalization Project.




Town Board Workshop Meeting Agenda - May 2, 2005
   A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, May 2, 2005 in the Town Hall. Click for May 2 Workshop Agenda.




Town Board Meeting Agenda - May 2, 2005
   A Grand Island Town Board meeting #8 will be held at 8 p.m. Monday, May 2, 2005 in the Town Hall. Click for May 2 Meeting Agenda.




TOWN OF GRAND ISLAND RESIDENTS
Water Meter Change - Automatic Meter Reading System - 2005
   The John W. Danforth Company, along with the Town of Grand Island Water Department, will be changing all water meters in the Town of Grand Island sometime between May 2005 and the end of the year. An automatic meter reading system will be installed which will allow the Town to quickly and accurately collect water meter readings through radio signals sent by the home meter to water department vehicles as they drive down each street. This new system will reduce meter reading costs, helping to keep water rates as low as possible.
   Residents are required to clear access to their meter.
   John W. Danforth Company will be contacting property owners approximately two weeks before they anticipate being in the area to schedule an appointment.
   There will be no charge for this work if the water meter is upgraded as part of this program. Regular billing cycles will not be interrupted as a result of the changes to the meters. To avoid a charge for this conversion, homeowners must schedule an appointment when they are contacted. The charge after 12/31/05 would consist of: cost of the meter and automatic reading device, installation and a 100% surcharge on water and sewer usage, until the meter has been replaced.




Public Notice, Town of Grand Island - 2005
   PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT on the 18th day of April 2005, the Town Board of the Town of Grand Island adopted a resolution to, subject to permissive referendum, to approve the request of the property owner at 160 Park Place to reduce the sewer easement at 160 Park Place by nine (9) feet starting from the boundary furthest from Bonnywoods Crossing. The Supervisor and Town Clerk are authorized to take any, and all steps necessary to record the easement reduction. Easement modification documents must be prepared by the property owner’s attorney subject to Town Attorney’s approval. The property owner is required to pay all costs associated with the modification. Any piping shall be designed by a professional engineer, hired at the expense of the property owner, subject to the Town Engineer’s approval.
Patricia A. Frentzel,
Town Clerk


Town Board Workshop Meeting - May 5, 2005
   A Town Board Workshop will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 5, 2005 in the town hall conference room for an Executive Session with the Town Attorney.


Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - April 4, 2005
   Click for Approved Minutes April 4 Meeting.




Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - March 21, 2005
   Click for Approved Minutes March 21 Meeting.




Town Workshop #21 Agenda- 2005 Meeting
   A Town Board Agenda Workshop #21 for 3:30 p.m. Thursday, April 21, 2005 follows:
I ROLL CALL
II ENERGY PERFORMANCE CONTRACT – Financing Resolution
III FUTURE MEETING SCHEDULE
   A. LWRP Review – set
   B. Already scheduled
      1. 3:30 p.m. – Monday, May 2, 2005
      2. 7:30 p.m. – Tuesday, May 24, 2005
IV LWRP Review
V ADJOURN




Subdivisions Get SEQR Approval - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, April 18, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . . In the workshop leading up to the Town Board Meeting Monday, the Town Board declared negative environmental declarations on several subdivision projects including the Golf Course Villas at River Oaks, Island Landings on Baseline between Bush and Ferry roads, and Scenic Woods Subdivision on Love Road.
   As part of the regular board meeting, preliminary plat approval was granted for four lots in Island Landings and seven lots in Scenic Woods. An exception to subdivision regulations was requested with regard to one lot in Scenic Woods subject to Erie County Health Department approval for a septic system. An extension of sanitary sewers along Love Road will be asked for the seven lots of Scenic Woods. Preliminary plat was also granted for Golf Course Villas with the understanding that the Homeowners Association details will be reviewed and approved by the Legal and Engineering departments and that street lighting will be provided.
   Re-approval of final plat of Parcel “P” of Spicer Creek Townhouses was recommended by the Planning Board and approved by the Town Board.
   Following a public hearing on Park Place Phase VI, final plat was approved for that project. The board also adopted a resolution to undertake Baseline Master Lift Station improvements and a bond in the amount of $1,245,000 to complete the work following a public hearing at which no one spoke. Involved in the Lift Station improvements is the replacement of pumps and forcemain.
   A public hearing was scheduled for 8 p.m. May 2 for consideration of a tax-free status of the Grand Island Fire Company Inc. mortgage. Federal law allows the Fire Company to obtain a bank mortgage which has tax exempt interest to the lender with an overall lower interest rate, but the IRS requires a public hearing prior to granting the tax free status.
   A proposed 9-foot drainage easement modification request by Daniel and Kathleen Zorich at 160 Park Place was approved by the board. The resolution calls for the reduction by nine feet of the sewer starting from the boundary furthest from Bonnywoods Crossing and is subject to a permissive referendum. The Zorichs are required to pay all costs association with the modification and any piping needed must be designed by a professional engineer and approved by the Town Engineer.
   Additional work was approved for the Golden Age Center Vestibule that includes installing a Beacon Morris hot water fan coiled cabinet heater at an increased cost of $1,140 and removal of existing concrete sidewalk and installation of a new sidewalk at a cost of $900.
   Referred to the Town Attorney was a request from Elizabeth Stevenson for the town to take over the deed of sublot 236, Oakgrove 61. There are outstanding school taxes from 2004-2005 and county taxes from this year. Also referred to the Town Attorney and Planning Board was a request from Joseph and Mary Ognibene at 3472 West River Road for the town to abandon a paper street (the planned continuation of First Street) so they can join two lots of their property.
   The Recreation Department was given the go ahead to hire 12 summer part time recreation attendants with hourly wages ranging from $7.74 to $9.55. Also approved was the rental of two 8x40’ storage trailers to meet storage and maintenance needs at Veterans Park for five months.
   A letter from Christine Weaver, president of Anchor Marine, interested in expediting the approval and permitting process for improvements to her marina as part of the Ferry Village Master Plan, was referred to the Town Board and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program. Her letter seeks government assistance in either funding or securing low interest loans in order to replace existing fixed docks with floating docks, construction of a break wall or wave attenuator, and removal of sunken barges which bar access to slips.
   In other business, the board:
• Issued a Public Improvement Permit for paving and curbing in Phase II of Majestic Woods Subdivision.
• Authorized the supervisor to sign the Permanent Drainage Easement between Huth Acres Inc. and the Town of Grand Island.
• Awarded Sado Gas Sales, Inc. doing business as Family Express the bid as fuel suppliers with a Fuel Management System.
• Announced the hiring of Sophie Fortunato and Kathryn Fratello as part-time court assistants effective April 19.
• Approved a change in fencing at 917 North Colony for a 3 ft. section from stockade to split rail.
• Authorized the supervisor to post the position of water plant helper with starting pay of $16.03 per hour for 10 business days as per the AFSCME Contract.
• Authorized the supervisor to write a letter NYS Environmental Facilities Corp. requesting the restoration of funds to the Clean Water State Revolving Fund.
• Authorized the supervisor to sign Traffic Safety Advisory Board’s grant application seeking $15,300 for a portable speed-monitoring device
• Acknowledged the name change of Fujisawa Healthcare, Inc. to Astellas Pharma Manufacturing, Inc.
• Appointed Betty Harris as a member and Robert Mesmer as an alternate member of the Zoning Board of Appeals with terms ending in December 2007 and December 2005, respectively.




Architectural Review Board To Meet Monthly On Tuesday - 2005
    Announced Monday, April 18,2005, was a change in meeting dates of the Architectural Review Board from the second Monday of the month to the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings are held in the Town Hall Conference Room at 7:30 p.m. The shift to Tuesdays was made to accommodate members’ schedules.


Eagle Scout Recognized By Town Board - 2005
   Ronald Warner Jr. was issued a proclamation by the Town Board Monday, April 18, 2005 for achieving Eagle Scout status in the Boy Scouts of America. The Troop 510 Scout was accompanied by his parents and reaped praise for his Eagle Scout project that brought in more than 3700 pounds of food for the Western New York Food Bank and 704 winter coats for those in need.


Town Workshops Announced - 2005 Meeting
   There will be a Workshop of the Town Board on Thursday, April 21, 2005 at 3:30 p.m. in the conference room regarding the Local Waterfront Revitalization Project.
   There will be a Workshop of the Town Board on Tuesday, May 24, 2005 at 7:30 p.m. in the conference room regarding Agricultural Uses and new zoning.


Notice Of Bond Resolution - April 18, 2005 Meeting
   TOWN OF GRAND ISLAND NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Grand Island, County of Erie, on the 18th day of April, 2005 and the validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if . . . Click for NOTICE OF BOND RESOLUTION.




TOWN OF GRAND ISLAND - NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING - April 2005
   NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Board of the Town of Grand Island will hold a public hearing at 8 p.m. on Monday, May 2, 2005 at the Town Hall to consider the request of the Grand Island Fire Company to obtain a $500,000 tax-exempt loan for the purpose of improving the Fire Company facilities. All interested persons may attend at said time and place and be heard.


Town Board Workshop - April 2005
   There will be a Workshop of the Grand Island Town Board on Monday, May 2, 2005 at 3:30 p.m. in the conference room regarding the Retiree Health Insurance.


Sanitary Sewer District No. 5 - April 2005
   Sanitary Sewer District No. 5 - Grand Island Blvd. Sanitary Sewer Construction. The Town of Grand Island (the TOWN) is issuing this Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the selection of a consultant to implement the Grand Island Boulevard Sanitary Sewer Construction project. Click for Sanitary Sewer District NO. 5 for complete information.




Town Board Workshop Meeting Agenda - April 15, 2005 Meeting
   A Grand Island Town Board Workshop #18 will be held at 3:30 p.m. Friday, April 15, 2005 in the Town Hall. Click for Workshop #18 Agenda.




Town Board Workshop Meeting Agenda - April 18, 2005 Meeting
   A Grand Island Town Board Workshop #19 will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 18, 2005 in the Town Hall. Click for Workshop #19 Agenda.




LEGAL NOTICE
Carl Road Sewage Pump Station Reconstruction Project
   Notice is hereby given that pursuant to a Resolution of the Town Board of the Town of Grand Island, Erie County, New York, sealed Proposals will be received, and considered by the Town Board on April 27, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. Local Time at the Town Hall for the Carl Road Sewage Pump Station Reconstruction Project, Town of Grand Island, New York. Click for "Legal Notice - Carl Road".




S.E.Q.R. Meeting Wednesday, April 13, 2005
   A S.E.Q.R. meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, April 13, 2005 at 8:45 a.m. in the conference room to discuss the following agenda:
NEW ITEMS
   1. Island Landings – Preliminary Plat Approval
   2. Scenic Woods Subdivision – Preliminary Plat Approval
TABLED ITEMS
   1. Rezoning – 1281 Stony Point Road – Russ Certo
   3. Golf Course Villas at River Oaks – Preliminary Plat Approval


Planning Board Agenda - April 11, 2005 Meeting
   For the Planning Board Meeting Agenda for the 7:30 p.m., Monday, April 11, 2005 meeting, click Planning Board 4/11/05




Human Resources Policy Adopted - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, April 4, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . . A Town Employee Human Resources policy ( #34) regarding performance appraisal was adopted Monday by the Town Board. Involved is a performance appraisal following each employee's probationary period and then on an ongoing annual basis. The appraisal will be conducted by the employee's department head or, for employees who directly answer to the Town Board, by the Board or a designee. Specific goals of the policy are to identify the accountabilities, expectations and results for the employee's job, evaluate how the employee is performing in these areas through objective feedback, mutually agree on goals and discuss a development plan to meet those goals.
   The Town Board approved signing an agreement with the school regarding particulars in the administration of a before and after school program subject to the okay of using the name GIFTS. Also approved was a request for proposals to operate the comprehensive, self-supporting K-8 After-School Education, Recreation & Wellness Program with dates to be determined.
   Referred to the Town Board was the rezoning request from Russ Certo for 1282 Stony Point Road. The Board indicated it was waiting for responses from the property owner. Doug Smith spoke in opposition to the rezoning and assured the board the entire neighborhood was mobilized against Certo's plan to turn the building into six apartments.
   Board action on Parkland Enterprises' request for a special use to build a service station/convenience store at Ransom and Stony Point is being halted while the Traffic Safety Advisory Board looks at traffic impact of the project.
   In other business, the board:
• Authorized the Town to participate in the Great American Clean-up set for May 7 and referred the information to Connections, Youth Board, Quality Quest, Rotary, and the Conservation Board.
• Announced that the portions of net collections from the Erie County 4% sales and compensating use tax would be paid quarterly instead of monthly.
• Presented proclamations acknowledging National Public Safety Telecommunications Week (April 10-16) and the good work on child abuse which is the mission of the Erie Niagara Sunrise Exchange Club (April being Child Abuse Prevention Month).
• Began procedure to create a position of senior wastewater treatment plant operator.
• Authorized the advertisement for bids to reconstruct the Carl Road Sewage Pump Station with bids to be open April 27 at 11 a.m.
• Approved seeking a grant for the Justice Court Assistance Program and approved two part-time employee court positions to replace two who will be having surgery.
• Awarded Kemiron Companies Inc. the bid for providing ferrous chloride at the Wastewater Treatment Plant and Lift Station 11 for the purpose of phosphorous removal and sulfide control at a cost of $0.43 per lb.
• Accepted with regret the resignation of Robert Keitz from the Zoning Board of Appeals.




Public Hearings Held And Two Scheduled - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, April 4, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . . No one spoke during two public hearings Monday. Granted was a negative declaration on Sanitary Sewer District #5, approval for improvements to the sewer and for a bond resolution in the amount of $800,000 to pay for extending the sewer from Burger King north to Tops Express.
   Also approved was the request from KNP Group Inc., doing business as New Age Inc. on Lang Blvd. to move from that location to the Niagara Falls Empire Zone.
   Two public hearings will be held at the Monday, April 18 meeting of the Town Board. The first to consider Final Plat Approval of Park Place, Phase VI (13 more lots). The Town Board Monday issued the Public Improvement Permit for the subdivision subject to final plat approval and subject to comments that may be made at the hearing.
   A second public hearing will address improvements to the Baseline Road Lift Station including pumps and forcemain replacement.




New Deeds Required For Dividing And Combining Lots - 2005
By Joelle Logue
   Monday, April 4, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . . A new process, at the suggestion of the tax assessor and adopted by the Town Board Monday, requires that landowners who wish to combine lots or divide land must file a new deed indicating the change. Thus, several requests to combine lots were granted subject to property owners filing a new deed that shows a single lot.
   Approved were two lots to be joined at 1890 Webb Road as requested by Terry and Valerie Swain; two lots to be combined at 3448 East River as requested by Stuart and Agnes Becker; two lots to be joined at 3897 East River Road as requested by John Sherwood and Jean Moran; two pieces of property at 1444 Whitehaven Road as requested by Richard Vanthoff; and the joining of six lots into one at 2397 Bush Road as requested by lawyers for John D. Fonzi.
   Also approved were two lots combined into one on Allentown Place owned by Linda Schutt. Schutt sold 1536 Cox Road to David Kimball except for a 12x12 ft. corner piece of land that will now be combined with Schutt's Allentown Place lot.




NOTICE OF BOND RESOLUTION - April 2005
Issuance and Sale of Serial Bond or Bonds and Bond Anticipation Note or Notes
   The following is a summary of a resolution adopted by the Town Board of the Town of Grand Island on the 4th day of April, 2005. Said resolution authorizes the issuance and sale of a serial bond or bonds and a bond anticipation note or notes in anticipation of the issuance and sale of said serial bonds, in an amount not to exceed $800,000. . Click for "Bond Resolution".




LEGAL NOTICE - Park Place Subdivision - Phase VI
   Click "Park Place Subdivision" for complete legal notice.




Unapproved Town Board Meeting Minutes - April 4, 2005
   Click for Unapproved Minutes April 4 Meeting.




Town Board Workshop Meeting Agenda - April 4, 2005 Meeting
   A Grand Island Town Board Workshop #15 will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 4, 2005 in the Town Hall. Click for Workshop #15 Agenda.





Public Hearing - April 7, 2005
   For the purpose of hearing objections to or for the granting of appeals, the Zoning Board of Appeals will hold the following public hearing on April 7, 2005 at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall. The following variance will be considered:
  • Sherri Heppner, a variance to construct a covered deck with less front yard setback at 49 Schwegler Rd.


    Town Board Meeting Agenda - April 4, 2005 Meeting
       A Grand Island Town Board Meeting will be held at 8 p.m. Monday, April 4, 2005 in the Town Hall Court Room. Click for     April 4th Agenda.




    Ransom/Stony Point Project Sparks Residents' Comments - 2005
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, March. 21, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . . The Town Board held four public hearings Monday, one of which, prompted much comment from the floor. Tabled for further review by the board was a special use permit for a convenience store/service station at Ransom and Stony Point Road. Marla Brown, attorney for Parkland Enterprises, urged the town to grant the permit citing that after an exhaustive SEQR and compliance with the new zoning, all approvals were in place. But Frank Burkhart said the board had a chance to do this project right by referring it to the Traffic Safety Advisory Board for traffic control considerations.
       Grading in spot elevations of the project and the widening of Woods Creek would ease drainage problems, he added. Burkhart also spoke about an outdated design for the convenience store and urged that the town, as lead agency, put conditions in the special use that would call for the removal of gas canopies and tanks should the business fail.
       Others opposing the project included Joan Arki of Ransom Road who said the town in all fairness should consider residents' concerns regarding increased traffic at that corner and Bill Jenkins, who claims he is opposed to all commercial development, particularly finds fault with this one due to drainage and traffic problems. Jennifer Dzielski said she was only opposed to the gas station part of the project, calling it "dangerous and smelly," and Brett Moore insisted Grand Island did not need another gas station, citing three close by on Grand Island Blvd. Ed Anderson called the Ransom/Stony Point corner a bottleneck and said 4-way stops should be there now with traffic lights a requirement if the store and gas station are built.
       Ed Anderson also weighed in on the Local Waterfront Revitalization Plan update advising that before the town considers buying the 3.8 acres at Edgewater, it should purchase Christine Weaver's East River property, now for sale at $125,000, as a staging area for boaters at Edgewater. Tom Burkman opposes any development at Edgewater, urging it should be open space and Councilman Gary Roesch agreed that development there would be inadvisable. Entered into the public record on the Local Waterfront Revitalization Plan were pro and con suggestions from the Environmental Conservation Commission. The updated plan was referred to the Town Board for further review.
       A request for a special use permit from Elderwood Senior Care at Riverwood to allow construction of a two-story addition at 2850 Grand Island Blvd. was approved as was the site plan. The addition will be 14,660 sq. ft. and add 10 beds to the facility.
       The Town Board also adopted Local Law 2, which amends the Water Law, following a public hearing at which no one spoke. Amendments included penalties for meter tampering, a final billing fee, conditions on the sale of meters and installing remote read meters by the end of 2005. The board also adopted amendments to the fee schedule that included costs for the new automatic water meters as follows: $150 for 5/8 and 3/4 inch, $210 for one-inch, $360 for 1 l/2-inch and $470 for two-inch.
       Referred to the town attorney was a proposal from Cingular Wireless to construct a new tower at 318 Baseline (the water plant) because the old tower would be overstressed with the addition of Cingular's antennas and new equipment to the tower. Discussed was a stipulation that would require co-location of users from the old tower to the new tower and a request that the town could have an official broadband communications system.
       In other business, the board:
    • Appointed Joseph Ippolito and Mark Stramaglia to the Economic Development Advisory Board.
    • Granted a request from Grand Island Central Schools to borrow four voting machines for use during their budget/trustee vote May 17.
    • Granted special use renewals to Christine Weaver of Ferry Road and James and Irene Daigler of Staley Road for excavation of ponds on the properties.
    • Granted a special use permit to Carol Merckel of East River Road for the keeping of two horses.
    • Granted final plat approval for Majestic Woods Subdivision, Part 2.
    • Waived subdivision regulations for Raymond DeGlopper to divide a lot at 2176 Fix Road and for Richard Williams to divide property at 2230 Fix Road.
    • Authorized advertising for bids on gasoline and diesel fuel for the town with bids to be opened April 13 at 10 a.m.
    • Approved combining lots at 3339 and 3345 Whitehaven Road for one lot at 3345 Whitehaven by Jack and Rose Marie Bugman in order to accommodate an addition.
    • Authorized the supervisor to enter into a Performance Contract with Wendel Energy Services contingent on the terms of agreement being approved by the town attorney, for improvements to town facilities that would result in guaranteed energy and operational savings.
    • Authorized the supervisor to sign the Letter of Intent to participate in the matching grant from NYS Department of Environment Conservation with the WNY Regional Stormwater Coalition in efforts to apply for a $10,500 grant to help with implementation of the EPA Phase II stormwater requirements.




    Sewer Project For Grand Island Blvd. To Be Aired - 2005
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, March. 21, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . . A project to extend sewer service the length of Grand Island Blvd. from Burger King north to Tops Express will be the topic of a public hearing at 8 p.m. April 4, 2005 during the Town Board meeting. The Island's businessmen and the Chamber of Commerce have long advocated for this and see it as a prerequisite for expanding business along the Island's main drag.
       Plans to fund the project include $241,100 by the US Environmental Protection Agency's Consolidated Appropriations Act. The remaining $558,900 would be provided by the town through the issuance of a General Obligation Bond. Of that remaining $558,900, $100.000 would be assessed to the Consolidated Sewer District with $458,900 assessed to Sanitary Sewer District #5 based on 90 percent of land value and 10 percent of water use, and bonded according to town law.
       Age Inc. to move from its Island location to a newly acquired building in the Niagara Business Park which is part of the NY Empire Zone. The move would allow the company to increase stock levels that would generate more sales as well as provide product distribution for other outlets of business. The establishment of an embroidery service is planned to provide a faster and more economical product.




    Increase and Improvement of Facilities of the Consolidated Sewer District and Sanitary Sewer District No. 5 - March 21, 2005
        A meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Grand Island, in the County of Erie, New York, was held at the Town Hall, in said Town, on the 21st day of March, 2005 regarding the following:
       Increase and Improvement of Facilities of the Consolidated Sewer District and Sanitary Sewer District No. 5 in the Town of Grand Island, County of Erie, New York, pursuant to Section 202-b of the Town Law.
       Click for     March 21 Meeting/Sewer District No. 5 for complete information.




    Unapproved Town Board Meeting Minutes - March 21, 2005
       Click for     Unapproved Minutes March 21 Meeting.




    TOWN OF GRAND ISLAND
    NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING - 2005
       NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held by the Town Board, Town of Grand Island, Erie County, New York on Monday, April 4, 2005 at 8:00 p.m. at Town Hall, 2255 Baseline Road, Grand Island, New York 14072, pursuant to the General Municipal Law Article 18-B, Section 959(a)(iii) to solicit comments regarding the relocation of KNP Group Inc., d/b/a New Age Inc, located at 373 Lang Blvd. into the Niagara Falls, New York Empire Zone.
       All interested persons will be heard at the meeting noticed above.
    Dated: March 25, 2005
    Patricia A. Frentzel
    Town Clerk
    Publish: March 25, 2005


    LEGAL NOTICE - 2005
       Notice is hereby given that pursuant to a Resolution of the Town Board of the Town of Grand Island, Erie County, New York, sealed Proposals will be received, and considered by the Town Board on April 13, 2005 at 10:00 A.M. Local Time at the Town Hall for Supplying Fuel with a Fuel Management System to the Town of Grand Island, Erie County, New York.
       The Proposals will be received in accordance with the Specifications prepared by the Town Engineering Department all of which are on file with the Town Clerk at her office in the Town Hall, Grand Island, New York, where same maybe examined during the usual business hours.
       Copies of said Specifications may be obtained at the office of the Town Clerk, Town of Grand Island, 2255 Baseline Road, Grand Island, New York, 14072, on or after March 25, 2005 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M.
       The Town of Grand Island reserves the right to reject any and all Bids, waive any informalities, or to make an award to the lowest responsible Bidder. Each Proposal must be accompanied by a certified check or bid bond in the amount of $ 2,500.00, payable to the Town of Grand Island. The check will be returned upon signing of the legal agreement.
       No Bidder may withdraw his Bid within forty-five (45) days after the date set for the opening thereof, but may withdraw same at any time prior to the scheduled time for the opening of Bids.
       Each Bid Proposal must be submitted with Bid Bond/Certified Check attached, enclosed in a sealed envelope addressed to the Town of Grand Island. On the outside of the envelope clearly label "Job No. M-139, Supplying Fuel with a Fuel Management System” and indicate name and address of Bidder. Proposals not meeting the above format will be unacceptable.
    Dated: March 25, 2005
    Patricia A. Frentzel
    Town Clerk
    Publish: March 25, 2005


    Town Board Meeting Notices - March-April 2005 Meeting
       The Grand Island Town Board will meet for Workshop #16 at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 12, 2005 in the Town Hall Conference Room. Re: Local Waterfront Revitalization Program
       The Grand Island Town Board will meet for Workshop #18 at 3:30 p.m. Friday, April 15, 2005 in the Town Hall Conference Room. Re: Local Waterfront Revitalization Program
       The Grand Island Town Board will meet for Workshop #19 at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 19, 2005 in the Town Hall Conference Room.




    Approved Town Board Meeting Minutes - March 7, 2005
       Click for     Approved Minutes March 7 Meeting.




    Town Board Workshop Agenda - March 21, 2005 Meeting
       A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 21, 2005 in the Town Hall. Click for     March 21st Workshop Agenda.




    Supervisor Receives Compliment On Designet International
       The following was received by Supervisor Peter A. McMahon on Tuesday, March 15, 2005.
    Hello Mr. McMahon,
       Just a note, to give you great compliments about a local company that helped my family. Designet International has been so incredibly helpful with a family problem... My daughter Kelly just returned from school for a year in Galway Ireland ..the short story is we had parties and many many visitors to our large family. As a result of these great social gatherings my custom made, one of a kind wedding band was now missing/lost. I could tell much, much more of the EPIC search by all for my wedding band.
       Anyhow I contacted deSignet International where my wife, Brigid, and I had our bands custom made at raru.com and explained how I lost my band...wow what a nice heartfelt company you have representing Grand Island. They are going to make another exact ring at a much reduced cost ....in this day and age this is outstanding customer service.
       What good town Public Relations, I will be sure to let travel websites know how nice Grand Island is !!
    Sincerely,
    Brian Davison
    Baltimore Maryland


    Town Board Meeting Agenda - March 21, 2005 Meeting
       A Grand Island Town Board Meeting will be held at 8 p.m. Monday, March 21, 2005 in the Town Hall Court Room. Click for     March 21st Agenda.




    Planning Board Agenda - March 14, 2005 Meeting
       For the Planning Board Meeting Agenda for the 7:30 p.m., Monday, March 14, 2005 meeting, click     Planning Board 3/14/05




    Notice Of Public Hearing - 2005
       NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held by the Town Board, Town of Grand Island, Erie County, New York on Monday, March 21, 2005 at 8:00 p.m., at Town Hall, 2255 Baseline Road, Grand Island, New York 14072, to consider and possibly accept the Town of Grand Island’s Draft Local Waterfront Revitalization Program, Including the Draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement as complete, and ready for public review and authorizing its submission to the New York State Department of State. At the time and place above, all members of the public shall be heard.
    Dated March 11, 2005
    Patricia A. Frentzel
    Town Clerk




    First Isle Bed & Breakfast Approved - 2005

    Jodi Robinson Photo - Click for larger view
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, March. 7, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .A special use permit was approved Monday for Glenn Wallace to operate a bed and breakfast at 917 North Colony Road. It is the first bed and breakfast so designated in the town and is a permitted use in all residential areas. Stipulations of the permit include construction of a stockade fence on the north property line, no signage and appropriate landscaping for screening.
       Wallace indicated his home would be used for lodging only and he has three bedrooms available with three parking places designated for guests. He indicated there would be no parties and no pets permitted and that renters had to be 25 or older. In addition, he would be on the premises to monitor and supervise. Rental will be limited to primarily the summer months and not every week in the summer.
       The Planning Board recommendation for approval took place February 18 at which time Jean-Marie Ensminger of North Colony appeared to voice concerns. Although she didn’t like the property being a bed and breakfast, she was more concerned about the precedent it was setting taking a residential neighborhood and creating a business neighborhood. Planners explained to her that Mr. Wallace’s initial request was downsized in order to meet the physical restraints of the property. It is important to note that two taverns, Turner’s and B.A’s, also share the neighborhood with homeowners.
       Councilwoman Mary Cooke, in commenting on the business, said perhaps bed and breakfasts should be permitted in larger lot residential areas only. If residents have concerns amendments to the zoning code could be suggested.




    Long Range Planning Committee Back In Business - 2005
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, March. 7, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . . The Town Board, Monday, announced that since the town wide rezoning was completed in 2004, it was time to begin a review of the Comprehensive Master Plan. Approved was the re-creation of the Long Range Planning Committee with nine voting members and 24 non-voting members.
       The nine voting members will include a representative from the following boards, committees or groups: Town Board, Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Commission on the Conservation of the Environment, Traffic Safety Advisory Board, Economic Development Board, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Chamber of Commerce and Community-at-Large.
       The 24 non-voting members will include: remaining four members of Town Board, remaining six members of the Planning Board, Highway Superintendent, Town Engineer, Director Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, one Code Enforcement Officer, and one each from the Architectural Review Board, Public Safety Board, Youth Advisory Board, Historical Preservation Board, Grand Island Central School District, West River Homeowners Association, Ferry Village, Quality Quest plus two more representatives from the Community at Large.




    Wastewater Treatment Plant Costs Increase - 2005
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, March. 7, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . . Due to a quantity over run for sludge dewatering, the Town Board approved Change Order #4 for the Wastewater Treatment Plant improvements that will add $22,657 to the cost of the contract. The actual quantity of sludge dewatered and disposed of came to 212.21 dry tons or 68.21 dry tons over the estimated 150 dry tons.
       Also approved, was advertising to bid ferrous chloride to be used for phosphorus removal and sulfide control. Bids will be open March 29 at 10 a.m.
       Design and construction for the Baseline Master Lift Pump Station rehabilitation and the Master Lift Forcemain replacement were approved at a cost of $101,200. These funds are currently in the 2005 Capital Plan.
       The signing of a performance contract financing resolution with Wendel Energy Services was tabled for further review. The town has identified $3.7 million in energy saving improvements that should be completed in town facilities. Borrowing the money at low interest rates and guaranteed paybacks in operational cost reductions and increased revenues make it cost effective. The town board, however, is still reviewing and prioritizing its list of projects such as replacing windows in town hall. Once the list is finalized, action on this item will be reconsidered.




    Concerns About Development On Stony Point Aired - 2005
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, March. 7, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .Final plat approval of Majestic Woods Subdivision, Phase II on Stony Point near the S curve was tabled Monday despite no objections from the public during the public hearing. Town officials are not opposed to the project but want to study the traffic impact especially in conjunction with development at Stony Point and Ransom by Parkland Enterprises.
       The Town Board set a public hearing for 8 p.m. March 21 to hear comment on a special use permit request by Parkland Enterprises for gas tanks needed for a planned service station/convenience store. New legislation requires the permit. Site plan re-approval for the project was tabled until after the public hearing on the gas tanks. Changes to the site plan include sanitation control and usable spaces in place of “future parking” since under the new code there are fewer parking requirements.
       Joan Arki of Ransom Road spoke about residents’ concerns with the project sitting three major factors: aesthetics, drainage and traffic. Safety issues with respect to the nearby school complex are a priority among residents who object to the gas station in particular.
       Marla Brown, attorney for Parkland Enterprises, advocated for an administrative item on the agenda and the board subsequently approved the splitting of a 16-acre commercial parcel of land from a 16-acre residential parcel. The purpose of the split is to allow transfer to a separately named entity.
       Heritage Centers at 1360 Baseline were given the green light to split the lot into two allowing for the building of a second residence on the property. Also approved was site plan approval for an addition to the Grand Island Fire Company at 2275 Baseline Road with the condition that any trees that are removed will be replaced or transplanted and maintained. The new addition will be used to store trucks.
       Benderson Development Co. got approval, subject to providing a drainage plan, to split an 8.5 acre parcel at 2130 Grand Island Blvd. leaving a vacant lot of 7.74 acres and the existing gas station on .79 acres.
       A request for a special use permit from Elderwood Senior Care at Riverwood to allow construction of a two-story addition at 2850 Grand Island Blvd. will be aired at a public hearing March 21 at 8 p.m. If permitted, the addition will be 14,660 sq. ft. and add 10 beds to the facility.
       A third public hearing scheduled for March 21 concerns changes to the town’s Water law. Considered will be the water meter replacement program and more stringent penalties for meter tampering.
       Local Law #1 was adopted authorizing the installation of stop signs as follows: Blackmon and West Park (southwest corner), Tracey Lane and Park (northeast corner) and an all-way stop at Sawmill. The Planning Board did not recommend placement of a stop sign on Dolphin at the Commons as was originally proposed.
       In other business, the board:
    • Approved the town’s participation in the April 23 Half Marathon with all costs to be incurred by the Greater Buffalo Track Club.
    • Authorized the supervisor to sign Estoppel Agreements acknowledging an agreement with Global Signal to sublease Sprint’s interests in the leases with the town and to look into utilizing the towers to enhance the town’s official communication system.
    • Appointed Stephanie W. Cowart of Carter Creek Drive to the Community Enrichment Council with a term expiring Dec. 31, 2005.
    • Announced the final tax rates for 2005.
    • Agreed to pay Michael Pusatier $854.25 for damage to his automobile caused by a town snow plow.
    • Referred to the assessor and supervising accountant a schedule of tax cancellations and refunds authorized by the Erie County legislature for 2004.
    • Returned a $100 fee application for a variance to Sam Long since he is ill and receiving treatment out of town.
    • Named Citizen’s Financial Group/Charter One Financial as an additional bank designee.
    • Accepted, with regret, the resignation of Joan Bodkin from the Historic Preservation Committee.
    • Approved a special use permit for John Lexo to operate a construction yard at 2527 Bedell Road.
    • Referred the Parks & Recreation Community Center Plan to the Town Board for further study.
    • Announced that SEQR for Russ Certo’s building on Stony Point would be held March 16 at 8:45 a.m. and heard from John Tripi Jr. that converting the professional space into residential apartments would be more in keeping with the character of the neighborhood.




    Unapproved Town Board Meeting Minutes - March 7, 2005
       Click for     Unapproved Minutes March 7 Meeting.




    Town Board Workshop #12 Agenda - 2005
       A Grand Island Town Board Workshop #12 will be held at 3:30 p.m. Monday, March 14, 2005 in the Town Hall Conference Room.
    I   ROLL CALL
    II   ENERGY PERFORMANCE CONTRACT
    III   2005 CAPITAL PLAN
    IV   ROUNDTABLE
    V   ADJOURN


    Town Board Agenda - Workshop #11 - March 7, 2005
       A Grand Island Town Board Workshop #11 will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 7, 2005. Click for     March 7 Workshop #11 Agenda.




    Town Board Meeting Agenda - February 7, 2005 Meeting
       A Grand Island Town Board Meeting will be held at 8 p.m. Monday, February 7, 2005 in the Town Hall Court Room. Click for     February 7th Agenda.





    Public Hearings - March 3, 2005
       For the purpose of hearing objections to or for the granting of appeals, the Zoning Board of Appeals will hold the following public hearings on March 3, 2005 at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall. The following variance will be considered:
  • Raymond and Anita DeGlopper, a variance to have a barn with less side yard setback at 2176 Fix Rd.
  • Sam and Laura Long, to expand a garage which is in a non-conforming use area at 2514 Long Rd.
  • Stickl Construction Company, Inc., a variance to construct a single family home with less front yard setback than required at 8 Buckhorn Court.
  • Daniel Drexelius, a variance to put an addition on an existing building with less side and front yard set back and also construct another building with less side yard set back at 2735 Bedell Road.
  • Terry Swain, a variance to construct a 30'X56' garage at 1890 Webb Road


    Grand Island Town Board S.E.Q.R. Workshops
       For schedule of the March-December S.E.Q.R. Workshops scheduled for 8:45 a.m. in the town hall conference room, click     S.E.Q.R. Workshops.




    Town Board Workshop Meeting - Tuesday, March 1, 2005 Meeting
       A Grand Island Town Board Workshop #10 will be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday, March 1, 2005 in the Town Hall Conference Room RE: Sale of Upstate Disposal to Waste Management Inc.
    Grand Island Town Board Agenda - Workshop #10
    I ROLL CALL
    II SALE OF UPSTATE DISPOSAL TO WASTE MANAGEMENT
    III ROUNDTABLE
    IV ADJOURN


    2005 Town/County Tax Bill Information - 2005
       Town Clerk Patricia Frentzel reminds residents that the last day to pay 2005 Town/County Tax Bills without penalty was February 15, 2005. 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. Taxpayers should call the office for the correct amount for payments made after February 15. Checks should be made payable to Town Clerk. Personal checks are not accepted after June 15 and payments can be made until June 30, 2005. After this date, payments must be sent to the County.




    Town Clerk Attends Association Of Towns Conference In NYC - February 2005
    "Service and Representation for the 932 Town Governments of New York"
     
    Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel is shown visiting "The Gates" during some free time - Click photo for larger view
       Grand Island Town Clerk Patricia A. Frentzel was among town officials attending the 72nd Annual Association of Towns Conference held February 20-23, 2005 in New York City. She attended classes that focused on topics for Town Clerks and Tax Collectors. Topics included tax payments on line, improving our communication with residents via our website, teambuilding strategies, town board minutes and vital records. " It's was a wonderful opportunity for me to network with other Town Clerks and Tax Collectors from all over the state," she said.
       Also attending from Grand Island were Supervisor Peter A. McMahon, Town Councilman Dick Crawford, Town Justice Sybil Kennedy, Town Attorney Peter Godfrey, Town Engineer John Whitney, and Accountant Pam Whitney.




    Town Board Meeting Calendar For 2005 - 2004 Meeting
       Click     Town Board Meeting Calendar for a listing of all Town Board Meetings in 2005




    Town Board Workshop Meeting - Friday, February 25, 2005 Meeting
       A Grand Island Town Board Workshop #8 will be held at 3:15 p.m. Friday, February 25, 2005 in the Town Hall Conference Room.


    Town Board Workshop Meeting - Monday, February 28, 2005 Meeting
       A Grand Island Town Board Workshop #9 will be held at 3:30 p.m. Monday, February 28, 2005 in the Town Hall Conference Room. RE: Capital Budget


    Town Board Workshop Meeting and Agenda - February 16, 2005 Meeting
       A Grand Island Town Board Workshop #7 will be held at 4 p.m. Wednesday, February 16, 2005 in the Town Hall Conference Room. Click for     Workshop #7 Agenda.




    Planning Board Agenda - February 14, 2005 Meeting
       For the Planning Board Meeting Agenda for the 7:30 p.m., Monday, February 14, 2005 meeting, click     Planning Board 2/14/05




    Town Files For Additional Police Positions - 2005
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, Feb. 7, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .Should the county budget crisis result in a decrease or elimination of county sheriff's services, Grand Island wants to be ready. At Monday night's Town Board meeting, Supervisor Peter McMahon asked to suspend the rules so he could get approval from the county to hire 12 seasonal police officers who could work up to 40 hours a week for five months and 30 part-time police officers who could work up to 19 hours a week. Not expecting to fill all these positions, the filing gives Grand Island staffing flexibility in having adequate police coverage. Should the Sheriff withdraw all personnel, the cost for coverage to Grand Island, if the town could hire at $15 per hour, would be $350,000 per year.
       Another action as a result of suspending the rules was to amend the 2004 and 2005 budgets by increasing amounts from a county grant that came through the Grand Island Foundation. Added to the 2004 budget was $4000 and added to the $2005 budget was $750 that covers the grant allocation of $4700.
       Hearing no comments during a public hearing to establish Lighting District 45 at Ransom Village Subdivision, Section 4D, the board unanimously approved the resolution. A public hearing has been set for 8 p.m. March 7 on final plat approval for Majestic Woods Subdivision, Phase II.
       Changes to the Tower Permit application form were approved. Included is a line at the top of the form indicating whether it is an initial application or a renewal, a sentence in the note section which explains that renewal requests do not require Planning Board approval, and block of space at the bottom to facilitate record keeping.
       The supervisor was authorized to sign the Beaver Island State Park sanitary sewer contract with the state paying $7.83 per thousand gallons of sewage treated by the town. Also authorized was the agreement with State Parks regarding water for Beaver Island at a rate of $3.74 per 1,000 gallons. A contract for county assessment services was renewed at the same rate as last year, $17,808.20 paid in four equal installments.
       Site plan approval, pending review by the town attorney, was given to American Pharmaceutical Partners, Inc. on Staley Road for the construction of an equipment platform to house two chillers.
       In order to facilitate the bike trail connect project, an agreement was approved for TVGA Consultants to expand the project to include resurfacing of the East-West Road by the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. The town's cost, $79,996, was included in a bond resolution authorized September 7. This project also involves 80 percent reimbursement from a Tea-21 grant.
       A letter from Louis B. Dingeldey Jr., attorney, regarding homeowners' concerns about property development along Whitehaven Road was referred to the Town Board and Town attorney.
       In other business, the board:
    • Appointed Dan Moran as Sr. Water Treatment Plant Operator
    • Referred to the Town Board the possible appointment of Wayne Clinton as Director of Water and Wastewater, a position he holds provisionally
    • Authorized advertising for candidates to the Zoning Board of Appeals
    • Authorized the supervisor to sign an application for a Planning Grant under the 2005 Quality Communities Grant Program
    • Authorized ordering a fully equipped Chevrolet Tahoe as a replacement to a Crown Victoria patrol car which costs $6000 more than the Crown Victoria
    • Adopted the standard detail sheets for water and sewer
    • Announced that the county approved the Community Development Block Grant for the Golden Age Center improvement project in the amount of $90,000
    • Announced that the new road with cluster #15-21 in Fairway Greens of River Oaks has been named Whiteoak Terrace
    • Referred to the Youth Advisory Board, the Community Enrichment Council, Enrichment & Referral Center and GIFTS, the announcement regarding program proposals for community based not-for-profit organizations for the 2005 Prime Time Program.




    State Encourages Reassessment Of Isle Properties To Full Market Value - 2005
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, Feb. 7, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .Pattie Valvo from the NYS Office of Real Property Services appeared before the Town Board during its workshop meeting Monday to encourage Grand Island to bring property tax assessments to full market value. And apparently she was no stranger having presented the steps to take for revaluation on a previous occasion. Grand Island hasn't re-evaluated property taxes since 1986 and properties are currently assessed at 62 percent. While generally its an unpopular thing to do, the need is real according to Valvo and brings benefits to both the town and residents.
       Valvo emphasized that to bring the assessments to 100 percent of valuation is fair and equitable for taxpayers and that the process should yield a new inventory of tax parcels to add to the town's coffers. She advises that once the revaluation is done, the program should be updated each year. That allows Grand Island to qualify for state aid - some $40,000 annually.
       The benefits of operating at full market value were pointed out - local control with one equalization rate, fewer court challenges after the initial reval is done, increased state land assessments and, in many cases, it improves the bond ratings of the towns.
       If the Town Board decides to undertake an Islandwide revaluation, it would begin with a resolution asking for the state's assistance. To accomplish the task by 2006, the process should start immediately with contractors bidding to evaluate each residential and commercial parcel at a cost of $25 to $33 each. Price tag to the town could be $300,000 or more to complete the reval.




    Zoning Board Of Appeals Vacancy
       The Town of Grand Island has a vacancy on its Zoning Board Of Appeals.
       The Zoning Board of Appeals meets the first Thursday of every month. Volunteer members interpret zoning laws and grant variances when warranted. Members are appointed by the Town Board and serve five-year terms. An ability to evaluate facts without prejudice, knowledge of or willingness to learn State law and Town ordinances are required. Zoning Board of Appeals members are required to attend training courses. Currently there is one opening for an Alternate Member.
       Interested persons should apply in writing to Town Supervisor Peter A. McMahon, 2255 Baseline Road, Grand Island, New York. Responses received by February 28, 2005 will be considered. Please include any relevant experience or training in the reply. For more information, contact any member of the Town Board.


    Town Board Meeting Notice - February 14, 2005 Meeting
       The Grand Island Town Board will meet for Workshop #6 at 3:30 p.m. Monday, February 14, 2005 in the Town Hall Conference Room. Click     Workshop Agenda




    Town Board Agenda Workshop #5 - February 7, 2005 Meeting
       Town Board Agenda Workshop #5 to be held 6:30 p.m., Monday, February 7, 2005. Click     Workshop Agenda




    Town Board Agenda - February 7, 2005 Meeting
       Click     Town Board Agenda for the Monday, February 7, 2005 Town Board Meeting Agenda.





    Public Hearings - February 3, 2005
       For the purpose of hearing objections to or for the granting of appeals, the Zoning Board of Appeals will hold the following public hearings on February 3, 2005 at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall. The following variance will be considered:
  • Gregory and Cynthia Olson, a variance to construct a home located on a lot with less side yard setback than required at 260 Park Place.
  • Robert and Holly Rovison, a variance to construct an addition with less side yard set back at 646 Alt Blvd.
  • Gene Mongan, a variance to construct a home located on a lot with less side yard setback than required at 2435 West River Road.
  • Daniel Pytlik, a variance to install a fence and garage in the rear yard at 4630 East River Road and a shed on the river side.
  • Deborah J. Serafin, a variance to have a home located on a lot with less side yard set back than required at 229 Oakridge Road.


    2005 Town/County Tax Bill Information
       Town Clerk Patricia Frentzel has announced that the 2005 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 as follows:
    • Friday February 11 - 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
    • Saturday, February 12 - 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
    • Monday, February 14 - 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
    • Tuesday 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 15 and later. Personal checks are not accepted after June 15 and payments can be made until June 30, 2005. After this date, payments must be sent to the County.




    Special Use For Private Airstrip Renewed - 2005
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, Jan. 17, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .The special use renewal for Robert Mesmer to operate a private airstrip at 2548 Love Road was approved Monday after the Town Board reviewed his covenant to keep the airstrip for private use only and that environmental mitigation agreements were upheld as previously requested by Chuck Goris who has been opposed to the airstrip from the beginning. Greg Farmer, a neighbor of Mesmer, spoke in favor of the airstrip citing no problems with sound and no inconvenience with having the airstrip close by.
       The moving of paper street Park Ave., a negative SEQR declaration and a request to combine three lots on Christine Weaver’s Edgewater property with all to be zoned R1-B was finally approved Monday. The problem of Park Avenue’s proximity in the movement of paper street next to Richard Piccolo’s property at 4144 East River Road was solved by increasing his side yard setback, increasing it to 15 ft. via an easement. The approval is subject to receipt of the easement.
       After several residents argued that there were enough stop signs at Tracey and Park and Dolphin and The Commons, the Town Board referred the installation of new stop signs for all suggested locations (southwest corner of Blackmon and West Park Roads, northeast corner of Tracey and Park lanes, all-way stop at Sawmill Run and a 3-way stop at Dolphin and The Commons) to the Traffic Safety Advisory Board and the Town Board for further review.
       Two public hearings were set - one for February 7 at 8 p.m. to air the establishment of Lighting District #45 (Ransom Village Subdivision Section 4D), and one for March 21 at 8 p.m. to air the Draft Local Waterfront Revitalization Program.
       Special use permits for a bed and breakfast on North Colony and an office for the practice of Hypnotherapy on Staley Road remained tabled in the Planning Board pending a site plan with parking and required landscaping for the first and following a meeting regarding operational questions for the latter.
       Sent to the Planning Board for review and recommendation was a request to waiver subdivision regulations to split the residentially zoned land away from the business zoned land for Parkland Enterprises in Ransom Estates Subdivision (Ransom and Stony Point). Also referred was a request to split property at 1360 Baseline Road to enable Heritage Centers to build a second community residence on the other end of the property.
       In other business, the board:
    • Adopted the official paving and drainage details for 2005
    • Approved a contract with Network Services at a rate of $60 per hour for additional computer network administrative support and services.
    • Reapproved the map cover for Fairway Greens Phase II – Cluster 17 with part of White Oak Lane renamed to White Oaks Terrace.
    • Approved a building permit for sublot 45 of Section IV of Grand Park Vue Estates (a corner lot with frontage on improved Buckhorn Court) subject to approval of the variance with no certificate of occupancy to be issued until improvements are complete.
    • Agreed to adopt and distribute “Albany Can you Hear Us Now? Resolution calling for Medicaid reform.
    • Appointed Lewis Rich to a three-year term on the Economic Advisory Board.
    • Referred to the Town Board a letter from the Grand Island American Legion Post objecting to support of a resolution to build a Veterans cemetery in the Town of Alabama, favoring instead a designated space in Erie County.




    Tomkins Presents LWV Sprawl Report To Town Board - 2005
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, Jan. 17, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .During the workshop prior to the Town Board meeting Monday, Jim Tomkins, a member of Quality Quest and a new member of the Conservation Board on the Environment, presented the League of Women Voters research on sprawl titled “At Taxpayers Expense - How Government Policies Encourage Sprawl in Erie and Niagara Counties.” The premise of the report is that sprawl into the suburbs of Buffalo was instrumental in causing the demise of the city’s center and efforts should be made to re-establish the downtown into a viable mixed use area. Government mergers (city and county) were also visited in economically strengthening the overall area as well as the growth of public transportation.
       Councilman Gary Roesch, Town Board liaison to the Economic Development Committee, suggested showing the power point presentation on sprawl to the Economic Development Advisory Board and other interested groups such as the Chamber of Commerce.
       According to a Brookings Institution study published last year, “Sprawl Without Growth: the Upstate Paradox,” all of New York’s upstate cities are in financial distress because of the loss of population, households and businesses and the consequent decline in tax base. While Buffalo’s revenues from property taxes have been going down, its sales tax revenues based on assessment and population have also steadily declined. The city becomes a drain on the county that in turn negatively impacts the suburbs within that county.




    Unapproved Town Board Minutes - January 18, 2005 Meeting
       Click     Town Board Minutes for the unapproved minutes of the Monday, January 18, 2005 Town Board meeting.




    Approved Town Board Minutes - February 7, 2005 Meeting
       Click     Town Board Minutes for the approved minutes of the Monday, February 7, 2005 Town Board meeting.




    Town Board Workshop - January 21, 2005
       A Grand Island Town Board Workshop will be held 3 p.m. Friday, January 21, 2005 in the town hall Conference Room regarding the 2005 CAPITAL PLAN.


    Town Board Agenda Workshop #3 - January 18, 2005 Meeting
       Town Board Agenda Workshop #3 to be held 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 18, 2005

    I   EXECUTIVE SESSION – Interview candidate for appointment to Advisory Board
    II   JIM TOMKINS – PRESENTATION
    III   AGENDA REVIEW
       1. Public Hearing Stop Signs – Amend
       2. Network Services Contract
       3. Weaver Rezoning
          a. Negative Declaration
          b. Consent Partial Abandonment
       4. Mesmer Special Use Renewal
       5. LWRP Public Hearing – When
    IV   NEW ITEMS
       A. 2005 Police Car
       B. Quality Communities Grant
       C. Zoning Code Changes – Responsibility
          1. Original (Master) Copy – Town Clerk
          2. Map – Town Engineer
          3. List of changes – Zoning
       D. 2005 Capital Budget
       E. Water Law Amendments
    V   CONTINUING ITEMS
       A. Metro Government Study – Resolution
       B. Revisions to Plumbing Code
       C. Drainage – John Whitney – March 7th Workshop
    VI   ROUNDTABLE
    VII   ADJOURN


    Town Board Agenda - January 18, 2005 Meeting
       Click     Town Board Agenda for the Tuesday, January 18, 2005 Planning Board Agenda.




    Planning Board Agenda - January 10, 2005 Meeting
       Click     Planning Board Agenda for the Monday, January 10, 2005 Planning Board Agenda.




    Economic Development Advisory Board News - January 2005
    By John L. Bonora
       Members of the Economic Development Advisory Board met for their last meeting of the year on Thursday, December 9, 2004. Several guests attended, along with the board members. The chairman described key projects and initiatives for 2005. Web site plans and other programs were discussed. One of our guests, Leo Nowak, a Grand Island resident for 35 years, described his background, which included former Director of the Niagara County Industrial Development Agency. He mentioned that the IDA collects fees from bond issues to help cover administrative costs. Any bond issues involving Grand Island could provide a source of income for EDAB projects through those fees. We are always looking for ways to foster economic development without going to taxpayers.
       Gary Roesch reported that the Cable Communications Committee recently met with Adelphia representatives. Adelphia will work with the Chamber of Commerce’s detailed street map to identify cable optic locations. This information will be available for use by various industries so that they will know where such systems are available.
       Steve Winder of UK Software Services, Inc. spoke about his services and marketing various industrial development sites on Grand Island. We are in the process of determining if his services can aid in the use of our web site.
       CB Richard Ellis has submitted a proposal to be reviewed by the board regarding Site Finder for Grand Island development properties.
       Our next meeting will be held at 7:15 p.m. on Thursday, January 13, 2005 in the Town Hall conference room. The meetings are open to anyone interested in economic development.


    Approved Town Board Minutes - December 20, 2004 Meeting
       Click     Town Board Minutes for the approved minutes of the Monday, December 20, 2004 Town Board meeting.




    Town Ice Rink In Vets Park Open For Skating - 2005
       Thursday, Jan. 6, 2005 . . .The ice rink at Veterans Park on Bedell is ready for skaters. Hours are from sunrise to sunset. The rink is natural ice, therefore depends on cold temperatures.
       The skating rink on the Kaegebein School property on Love Road should also be ready for skating. The skating rink on Baseline between Ferry and Bush roads is no longer a town project due to the fact that the private property is not being developed.


    Unapproved Town Board Minutes - January 3, 2005 Meeting
       Click     Town Board Minutes for the unapproved minutes of the Monday, January 3, 2005 Town Board meeting.




    Supervisor & Town Board Appoint - 2005
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, Jan. 3, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .The following appointments were made during the reorganization meeting of the Town of Grand Island Monday.
       Supervisor Peter McMahon named the following committees:
    Special Districts, Peter McMahon (chair), Mary Cooke, John Whitney and Wayne Clinton; Audit Committee, Mary Cooke (chair) and Gary Roesch; Sidewalk & Bikepath Committee, McMahon (chair), John Whitney, Mary Cooke, Ray Dlugokinski, Linda Tufillaro and Planning Board Chair; Historic Preservation Committee, Cooke (chair), Joan Bodkin, William Koch, Shirley Luther, Joseph Macaluso, Tim Mordaunt, Teddy Linenfelser, Curt Nestark and Barbi Lare; Personnel Committee, McMahon and Crawford. Appointments to the Economic Development Council were tabled.
    Town Board liaisons: Cooke (Environmental Conservation Board and Human Rights), Gary Roesch (Economic Development, Community Enrichment and Communications & Cable TV), Crawford (Traffic Safety Advisory Board, Library Trustees, and Youth Board), Dan Robillard (Architectural Review Board, Planning Board and Parks & Recreation Board), McMahon (Long Range Planning Committee).
       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.
       Douglas Learman was reappointed 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 Supervisor's Secretary Diane Nesbitt were appointed Harassment Complaint Officers.
       Gregory Butcher was appointed Deputy Disaster Coordinator.
    ADVISORY BOARD APPOINTMENTS
    • Peter McKee to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a five-year term and as chair through 2006; Paul Sica for a one-year term.
    • Paul Klock for five-year term to Board of Assessment Review.
    • Christine Sanborn for a five-year term on the Human Rights Commission.
    • Fay Rech McDonald for a five-year term as Library Trustee.
    • Paul Belter for a five-year term on the Parks & Recreation Board.
    • John Trianda for a seven-year term on the Planning Board
    • Dorothy Bitner and Anna Ehlert for three-year terms on the Traffic Safety Advisory Board.
    • Michael Rossi for a five-year term on Board of Ethics.
    • Eric Berger for a seven-year term and Mike Dlugosz for two-year term on the Communications & Cable TV Committee.
    • Robert Marinucci, Harry Carter, Sofia Syed and Brandon Antonelli for three-year terms on the Youth Advisory Board.
    • Thomas Butler, Danielle Gworek and Robert Cleveland to one-year terms on the Community Enrichment Council.
    • Frank Sturniolo Jr. for a five year term on the Board of Architectural Review.
    • Sam Akinbami for a five-year term, Mark Lazeration for one-year term and James Tomkins for a three-year term on the Commission for Conservation of the Environment. Dorothy Westhafer will chair the Commission till the end of 2006.




    Town Reorganizes For 2005
    Crawford Continues As Deputy Supervisor
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, Jan. 3, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .Supervisor Peter McMahon again named Dick Crawford Jr. as his deputy supervisor during the town's reorganization meeting held Monday, January 3. McMahon asked for and was granted a 30-day extension for filing the Supervisor's Financial Report for the fiscal year 2004. He also re-appointed Diane Nesbitt as his secretary for the new year.
       The town board adopted a resolution that declared all operation and maintenance costs and all capital costs, net of water rents and other revenues, would be apportioned against the assessed land valuation of each of the properties or parcels of land within the Consolidated Water District.
       The town board also took action on the following:
    • Set mileage at 40.5 cents per mile for town officials 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. Mary Cooke, who plans to attend, was named alternate delegate. - Renewed the town's membership in the Association of Erie County Governments and the Association of Towns of New York State.
    • 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).
    • Set town clerk's office hours as 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 30-June 30 and Sept. 1-Dec. 31; 8:30 a.m.-4 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, Chase Manhattan Bank and Fleet National Bank as depositories for the town.
    • Named Fiddler and Company as audit counselors.
    • 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.
    • Authorized the supervisor's renewed membership in NYS Government Finance Officers Assoc., New York Planning Federation and State Association of Municipal Purchasing Officers.
    • Adopted an investment and procurement policy and adopted a fee schedule for 2005.




    Revised Tower Permit Adopted - 2005
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, Jan. 3, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .The Town Board, Monday, adopted a revised draft of the Tower Permit that has been reduced to a single page. A two-page attachment details written application requirements including a long form Environmental Assessment Form (EAF) with a Visual EAF Addendum, site plan details, before and after propagation studies, a search ring, copy of co-location policy, a report from a licensed professional engineer describing tower, an agreement by the applicant for removal of the telecommunication facility should it become necessary, a financial security bond and a clause for other information the town might request. Another nine-page attachment is the entire Article XXXI on Telecommunications Facilities.
       No one spoke during a public hearing on a special use application by Dr. Neil Migliore for a home occupation to practice hypnotherapy in R-1B zoning at 1849 Staley Road. The Board referred the request to the Planning Board for review and recommendation.
       The special use renewal for Robert Mesmer to operate a private airport/landing strip at 2548 Love Road was tabled. Inquiries made by Chuck Goris as to whether the covenant was kept to keep the airstrip for private use only and whether the environmental mitigation agreement was met (a habitat for spotted salamanders) will be reviewed by the Town Board prior to approval.
       David Stamler was appointed Deputy Highway Superintendent.
       The Town Board agreed to conduct a salary study for town employees following budget hearing requests by department heads to raise the salaries of their employees. The supervisor was authorized to send out a Request For Proposal for the study.
       A resolution from Erie County for support of a Veterans Cemetery to be created in Western New York, specifically in Mt. Calvary, Cheektowaga where 52 acres are available was tabled so input could be received from Island veterans groups.




    Town Holidays Designated - 2005
    By Joelle Logue
       Monday, Jan. 3, 2005 Town Board Meeting . . .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. 17), President's Day (Monday, Feb. 21), Good Friday (1/2 day Friday, Mar. 25), Memorial Day (Monday, May 30), Independence Day (Monday, July 4), Labor Day (Monday, Sept. 5), Columbus Day (Monday, Oct. 10), Veterans Day (Thursday, Nov. 11), Thanksgiving and day after (Thursday & Friday, Nov. 24-25), Christmas (Friday, Dec. 23 and Monday Dec. 26), New Year's (1/2 day Friday, Dec. 30) and (Monday, Jan. 2).

    JULY-DEC. 2004 News
    JAN-JUNE. 2004 News
    2003 News
    2002 News
    2001 News

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