Objections To Mesmer Hangar Heard
By Joelle Logue
December 16, 2002 . . .Kristine Lavango and Chuck Goris went on record during Monday's town board meeting to object to the proposed 44x49 ft. hangar that is part of a revised site plan to the Mesmer airstrip at 2548 Love Road. Both questioned why the hangar was not part of the original site plan and pointed out that there is already a detached garage and another freestanding storage building on the corner lot. To add a hangar would further devalue nearby property values, Goris insisted.
In a memo to the town board, the town engineer advised that under the current zoning, private airports require a special use permit in a R1-A district and the definition of a private airport includes a "shelter for the maintenance of not more than two aircraft." After some discussion among town board members, attorney Peter Godfrey advised the town board to take no action until the Planning Board considers the revised site plan.
A temporary Certificate of Occupancy was approved for Tops Express. Fulfillment of site plan requirements include 40 ft. of sidewalk, trees, striping on the parking lot and one sewer system test, none of which can be completed until spring.
The Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) on Island-wide Zoning Code revisions was adopted 4-1 with Councilman Dan Robillard voting against the FEIS. No comments were made during a public hearing on the 2003 special districts roll and it passed unanimously as published.
Town Engineer John Phillips, who has been with the town for 28 years, announced he will retire December 30. John Whitney will step into his spot January 1. Also filling vacancies are Kevin Koch as the new fire inspector and Michael Braun as wastewater working crew chief. Ten other appointments were tabled due to union negotiations.
Site plans were approved for a 40x36 ft. addition to the rear of the existing building at Marty's Towing, 1741 Baseline Road; a fill permit for Ransom Village Subdivision, and construction of a 1990 linear earth berm at River Oaks on Whitehaven Road across from Spicer Creek Townhouses as long as the berm is topsoiled, graded and seeded.
Subdivision regulations were waived for Lincoln and Barbara Nutting to split a parcel, owned by William Dixon, adjacent to their property at 3722 East River Road. Mr. Dixon's house is located on the river side and the Nuttings are planning to purchase the road side property and to keep the lot separate.
In requests for the town's abandonment of Fourth St., a paper street, the highway superintendent advised the Planning Board that abandonment of approximately 150 ft. of Fourth St. that is directly adjacent to the portion already abandoned will not impact Highway operations. However, the first 50 ft. of Fourth St., measured northerly from Westwood must be retained.
In other business, the board:
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
8:00 a.m. – TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2002
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
RE: REORGANIZATION
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA – WORKSHOP #46
6:30 P.M. – Monday, December 16, 2002
I MOTION FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION
A. Labor Negotiations – Update
B. Personnel – Appointments and Promotions
C. Legal Counsel – Advice
II AGENDA REVIEW
III NEW ITEMS
A. People to People – Student Ambassador Funding Request
B. Holiday Greeting – Ad?
C. Parking Restrictions – Vets Park
D. Map Order Form - ?
E. Pesticide Policy – Action?
F. Nike Base Tennis Court Lights
G. Vets Park – Maintenance Building – Costs (Workshop 12/19)
H. Small Business Ass’t. – Advisory Board
I. NYSERDA Water Study – Exec Summary (Workshop 12/19)
J. Fast Track Permitting
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
A. Bonding – Mining/Ponds
B. Update Honor Roll – DeGlopper Monument
C. Drainage
1. Town Wide
2. Neighborhood
D. Sign Ordinance
E. Plumbing Ordinance
F. Town Hall Signs
V ROUNDTABLE
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 23 Date: DECEMBER 16, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: New Apostolic Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Rustowicz
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of December 2, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. 2002 SPECIAL DISTRICTS ASSESSMENT ROLL
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meeting: November 7, 2002
2. Board of Architectural Review - Minutes of Meeting: November 12, 2002
3. Recreation Advisory Board - Minutes of Meetings: August 26, September 30 & October 28, 2002
4. Seneca Nation of Indians v. New York State, et al. - Latest Civil Action 11/22/02
5. Sprint - Notice to Cell Site Landlords
6. Building Permits - November 2002
7. 2003 HEAP Information
8. Golden Age Center - Usage of Facilities and Vehicles for November 2002
9. Planning Board - Minutes of Meeting: November 11, 2002
10. NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation - Veterans Park Grant
Application Denial
11. NYS Unified Court System - Notification of Grant Award for Justice Court
12. American Farmland Trust Publication
13. Erie County Computer Recycle Event
14. Adelphia - Status of Franchise Fee Audit
15. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: November 12, 2002
16. Reality Café Attendance Report - November 2002
17. 2003 Cutoff Dates - Submission of Vouchers for Regular Audit
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Monthly Report - November 2002
2. 2002 STOP-DWI Contract Between County of Erie and Town of Grand Island
3. Award Bid - Workman’s Compensation
4. Peace Bridge Project
5. Appointment - Grand Island Police Department
6. Town Engineer Retirement Letter
7. Town Insurance Bids
8. Retirements - Appointments
COUNCILMAN ROBILLARD
9. Resolution Adopting Complaint Form for the Town of Grand Island
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Budget Transfer
PLANNING BOARD
2. Marty’s Towing 1741 Baseline Road - Site Plan Approval Building Addition
3. Lincoln & Barbara Nutting - Exception to Subdivision Regulations for Lot Adjacent to 3772 East River Road
4. Michael Samland 2944 Westwood - Abandonment of Paper Street
5. Bill Torchia 2940 Bedell Road - Abandonment of Paper Street 6. Retirements
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
7. Site Plan Approval - River Oaks Construction of Earth Berm
8. Site Plan Approval - Fill Permit for Ransom Village Subdivision
9. Site Plan Approval - Mesmer 2548 Love Road
10. Town Wide Web Based Geographic Information System
TOWN ENGINEER & TOWN ATTORNEY
11. Adopt FEIS Zoning Code Revisions
TOWN ATTORNEY
12. Majestic Woods Subdivision - Road Dedication
CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER DOUGLAS LEARMAN
13. Electrical Election
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DLUGOKINSKI
14. Deputy Highway Superintendent’s Retirement
TOWN ACCOUNTANT PAM WHITNEY
15. Budget Amendment Erie County Grant - GI Foundation
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
ROBERT WEAVER
1. Rezoning Objection - East River and Whitehaven
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Cecelia H. Weselak
Alex Szur
Mabel E. Sanders
Islanders Pack Peace Bridge Meeting, Impact Vote
By Joelle Logue
December 7, 2002 . . .A strong presence of Grand Island citizens at last Saturday's Peace Bridge meeting held in WNED-TV studios changed the public ranking of new Peace Bridge locations. This was the fourth public workshop in a series scheduled by the Peace Bridge Authority's binational review. The Island coalition, some 200 strong, was vocal and emphatic about the fact Islanders do not want the new bridge near the town. Keeping the bridge in its current location ranked first after Saturday while one of the International Railroad Bridge alternatives was second.
Registered for the public hearing were 719 people and many took the ranking forms home to complete. Thus, the voting from Saturday's meeting is incomplete and mailed in forms will be accepted if they are postmarked by December 17, 2002. Final results will be available on the web site www.PeaceBridgeX.com
In commenting on the meeting, Supervisor Peter A. McMahon said, "The entire town board was very pleased with the turn out and results of the voting." He applauded the efforts of citizen groups from West River, the Oakfield area, Towerwood-Bronson area and Ferry Village. Also Quality Quest, the Chamber of Commerce and the Buffalo Launch Club had a positive impact on Saturday's meeting.
A core group of Islanders led by Paul Leuchner, Mary Beth Bush, Margaret Conway, Liz Lutnick and John Sobol worked tirelessly for the past week getting flyers distributed and answering questions about the proposals. A speaker's meeting held December 5 at Town Hall, with 80 people in attendance, prepared everyone for Saturday's meeting and provided detailed information on sites and impacts.
McMahon further indicated that a pro-active group of Islanders will be paying close attention to the process and keeping others informed about bridge plans that might effect the Island. Though organizers of the review process indicated that plans involving Grand Island had been removed from the selection process weeks ago, McMahon said those sites are still listed on the Peace Bridge Authority's web site.
Upcoming meetings with Assemblyman Sam Hoyt, County Legislator Chuck Swanick and the Consultant Team are planned and another town meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 17, 2002 at 7 p.m. for all interested. Also, public hearings to garner more public input are planned by the Peace Bridge Authority with the next workshop to be held in late January 2003 or early February.
Tonawanda Citizens Join GI Quality Quest To Combat Bridge
The Citizens for a Green Tonawanda (CGNT) have joined forces with Quality Quest to combat the ill conceived notion of putting bridges on Grand Island or in the environmentally sensitive areas south of Grand Island. Their website contains a great deal of information so I would recommend that you consider establishing a link to their site. Here is their address: Citizens for a Green Tonawanda
Letters Offer Insight To Peace Bridge Proposals
Dec. 11, 2002. . .The following letters have been written by Island resident Paul Leuchner, US Army Corps of Engineers, who offers much knowledge and insight into the Peace Bridge Expansion Project in relationship to Grand Island.
Click the following titles:
Buffalo News: “Peace Bridge Site Selection Process Imperils Strawberry Island”
Island Dispatch: "Schimminger's Folly"
First Grand Island Public Meeting: Letter of Comment Presented at the First Grand Island Public Meeting on the Peace Bridge Expansion Project
Letter, Workshop #4: Letter of Comment to be Entered into the Official Record for Collaborative Workshop #4
Island Dispatch: “Islander’s Working for the Common Good”
December 2002 Peace Bridge Meetings
Island residents holding a ballot for the Peace Bridge expansion project may attend a meeting in Town Hall 7 p.m. Thursday, December 12, 2002 to have any questions about filling out the ballot answered. Interested Island residents may also attend a Peace Bridge expansion project meeting in Town Hall 7 p.m. Tuesday, December 17 when a process will be formed on how to proceed with future information on the project.
Peace Bridge Meeting Update - Dec. 8, 2002 Article
Bridge Debate - Grand Island Residents Vote, Changing Site Rankings
By LOU MICHEL
Click Bridge Debate.
Planning Board Meeting Agenda
The Grand Island Planning Board will meet in the Town Hall Conference Room at 7:30 p.m., Monday, December 9, 2002. Click Planning Board for complete agenda.
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
3:15 P.M. – Thursday., December 19, 2002
Town Hall Conference Room
Re: Water Department NYSERDA Study
Veterans Park Maintenance Building
Peace Bridge Alert
Click for full view of map.Island residents should be aware that powerful special interest groups are pushing five alternative sites for a new Peace Bridge with significant negative impacts on our community. A bus or buses will leave town hall at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, December 7, 2002 whereby Island residents needing a ride will be transported to the Public Vote taking place at the WNED Studios. Bus transportation is limited and those interested are asked to call 773-9600 ext. 616 by Wednesday, December 4 at 5 p.m.
A group of residents working to educate other residents has listed the following as reasons to vote against locating the Peace Bridge as shown on the map: higher taxes, air & noise pollution, traffic congestion, lower property values, major roads closed, neighborhoods isolated, homes condemned, significant environmental harm, a billion dollars of excess costs, increased public safety risks, and traffic jams at South Bridge. Please scroll down for more information. Click for More Maps.
Buffalo News Article - Dec.7
Islanders Urged to Attend Peace Bridge Meeting
By Joelle Logue
December 2, 2002 . . .Supervisor Peter McMahon and Councilwoman Mary Cooke reminded Islanders Monday that there will be an important meeting regarding the various Peace Bridge plans being considered on Saturday, December 7 at WNED Studios. The public will have an opportunity to vote on five out of 30 alternate sites being recommended for further consideration. Two of the plans negatively impact Grand Island.
Grand Island Plan I, according to McMahon, has a bridge crossing the east Niagara River near the Buffalo Launch Club. A six lane road will link with the Parkway through East Oakfield and cross the river into Canada. Also planned is a huge truck facility on the Island with the whole project taking $15 to $20 million off the tax base.
Grand Island Plan II will result in an additional 7,000 trucks on the South Grand Island Bridge daily. Both plans would devastate the Island by causing traffic jams, lowering property values, increasing public safety risks including air and noise pollution, elevating taxes plus much more. Thus, Islanders are urged to arrive at WNED (next to Adams Mark Hotel in Buffalo) before 8 a.m. as seating will be limited and vote for the following: EBNP-1, EPEP-1, EBEP-2, EBNP-2 and EBXP-1, all of which exclude Grand Island in the planning process.
To prepare for Saturday's meeting, Islanders are invited to Town Hall Thursday, Dec, 5 at 7 p.m. More information is also available on the Internet: http://darius.pce.net/bridgealert/ and http://www.grand-island.ny.us. Anyone in need of a ride to Saturday's meeting in Buffalo is asked to call Supervisor McMahon at 773-9600, Ext. 616 by 5 p.m. Wednesday, December 4, 2002.
Fire Company Contract Approved, Hear New EPA Rules
By Joelle Logue
December 2, 2002 . . .Hearing no public comment on the 2003 Fire Company contract, the town board, Monday, authorized the supervisor to sign the contract that will begin January 1 and end December 31, 2003. The Fire Company will receive $673,500 for services including answering all fire and first calls, providing 911 service and maintaining all fire equipment.
Supervisor Peter McMahon announced that the US EPA has adopted new and comprehensive rules regarding stormwater system cleaning and maintenance programs, pollution control programs including construction sites and public education programs. Research for funding the new rules through establishment of a town-wide special district for drainage will be done by the town attorney who will work with the town engineer and highway superintendent. A report is due back to the town board after January 1, 2003.
A public hearing has been set for 8 p.m. Monday, December 16 on the Special Districts Assessment Roll which can be inspected at the Town Hall.
The town board voted to spend $5,315 to prevent computer viruses from disrupting operations. This will involve the purchase and installation of an Exchange Server with software and backup. The money will come out of the Computer Budget line that has an available balance of $8,400.
Due to the fact Water Superintendent John Martin has retired, the town board referred some emergency plans and vulnerability assessments that need to be completed to the wastewater superintendent. Involved is re-doing the Emergency Response Plan, publishing public notices for two consecutive weeks the plan is available for review and comment, and file a copy with the NYS Dept. of Health marked "Confidential" by December 31.
In other business, the board:
Veterans Park Priorities and Parking Discussed
By Joelle Logue
December 2, 2002 . . .Town Recreation Director Linda Tufillaro, in a memo to the town board, wrote that parking is a high priority need in Veterans Park and hopes the parking can be addressed with the $50,000 enhancement grant from the state. She also requested that the town board approve "No Parking" along Veterans Park and Island drives for safety reasons. The town board will hear comments on the banning of parking along the road leading to the parking areas 8 p.m. Tuesday, January 21, 2003.
Other priorities listed by Tufillaro, in addition to the parking area with drainage and receivers, curbs and landscaping were as follows: a new softball diamond including backstop, dug outs, fencing and landscaping; bridges over Woods Creek and creek bank enhancement. Listed as future projects were a trail within park boundaries and additional leisure facilities such as skate park, bocce ball, etc.
The town board, Monday, also referred to the town accountant a request from Tufillaro to establish an account line for the purpose of holding funds for the aesthetic development of Veterans Park. Withdrawals from this line item would be limited to visual amenities such as planning and design, plants, trees, signs, pots, etc. The monies for this account line would come from donations and fees that are collected from park users such as the fee that Little League pays for the concession stand and donations from individuals, businesses and civic organizations.
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA – WORKSHOP #45 6:30 P.M. – Mon., December 2, 2002
I CODE ENFORCEMENT CONCERNS
II AGENDA REVIEW
A. Personnel - Appointment at Golden Age
B. Exchange Server
III NEW ITEMS A. Procurement – Update
B. Pesticide Policy (Proposal)
C. Majestic Woods – Conservation Easement
D. Chamber of Commerce – Citizen of the Year – Ad and Nomination
E. Assessor’s Office – Staffing
F. Nike Base Tennis Courts – Lights
G. Reality Café – Request for Larger Space
H. Veteran’s Park – Maintenance Building – Cost Estimates
I. Fuccillo – Balloons on Cars
J. Coalition for Women’s Appointments
K. Small Business Assistance Center Advisory Board
L. NYSERDA Study – Executive Summary
M. Employment – Residency Requirement
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
A. Bonding – Mining/Ponds
B. Update Honor Roll – DeGlopper Monument
C. Drainage
1. Town Wide
2. Neighborhood
D. Sign Ordinance
E. Plumbing ordinance
F. Town Hall Signs
V ROUNDTABLE
Peace Bridge Proposals Could Mean Disaster For Island
Local Peace Bridge Meeting Fills Court Room
Dan McMahon Photo
By Teddy Linenfelser
Peace Bridge alternatives, which could drastically affect Grand Island, were discussed at a well attended meeting in the Town Hall courtroom Tuesday evening (Nov. 26, 2002). Also reviewed was a long list of other proposed sites which span an area from Lake Erie to the mouth of the Niagara River at Lake Ontario. All international truck traffic that now crosses the Peace Bridge, Rainbow Bridge, or the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge will be diverted to whatever site is chosen.
Alternative GI-1 will enter the Island from the West River at West Oakfield Road and cross slightly north to the East River in the area of the Buffalo Launch Club/Towerwood Road area. Alternative GI-1 proposes a new highway connection across the southern portion of Grand Island and would impact relatively dense residential development, and a portion of Beaver Island State Park. This alternative could also result in a new US Plaza to be located on the abandoned Tonawanda Coke Plant site in Tonawanda, which has known contamination and is considered a brownfield site. The new Canadian Plaza would be located in a rural-residential portion of the Town of Fort Erie. 
Alternative GI-2 will enter the Island from West River somewhere between Love and Staley roads. Alternative GI-2 proposes a new I-190 Interchange and US Plaza in an undeveloped portion of the Town of Grand Island surrounded by residential and recreational (Park) uses. The new Canadian Plaza would be located in the southern, rural part of the City of Niagara Falls.The Peace Bridge Authority will hold a public vote on the proposed Peace Bridge sites, including those on or near Grand Island, at WNED Studios in Buffalo on December 7, 2002 between 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. There is limited seating capacity, therefore Island residents are encouraged to be at WNED Studios, 140 Lower Terrace, Buffalo by 8 a.m. A presentation of the proposed sites will be made, followed by a public comment period and the selection by ballot of five sites for further consideration.
Here are three other alternatives that exist slightly farther south in the Niagara River.
Click Here PeaceBridge.com or Bridge Alert for further information.
For Buffalo News coverage of the Nov. 26, 2002 meeting, click News Story.
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 22 Date: DECEMBER 2, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: Bible Presbyterian Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Rustowicz
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of November 18, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. GRAND ISLAND FIRE COMPANY CONTRACT
CONSENT AGENDA
1. New York Power Authority Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Project No. 2216
2. Grand Island Youth Advisory Board Minutes of Meeting: October 1, 2002
3. Grand Island Traffic Safety Advisory Board Minutes of Meeting: October 8, 2002
4. Erie County Environmental Management Council 2002 State of the Environment Report
5. Grand Island Central School District Girls Soccer Team State Championship Competition
6. NYS Assemblyman Robin Schimminger- Proposed Changes AEMT Paramedics Training
7. NYS Assemblyman Sam Hoyt - CCAP Grant for Veterans Park
8. Fujisawa Healthcare, Inc. - SPDES Permit
9. NYS Assemblyman Richard Smith - Local Share Seneca Nation Casino Revenue
10. Reality Café: November 2002 Attendance
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
EPA Stormwater Rules
Computer Security
Erie County Personnel - Creation of Position: Senior Water Treatment Plant Operator
Erie County Division of Highways Snow Removal and Ice Control Contract 2000-2005
NYS Department of Public Service - Meeting re Adelphia Cable Communications
Adelphia - Commercial Business Rate Change
Appoint Full-Time Recreation Attendant at Golden Age Center
COUNCILMAN CRAWFORD
8. Garden Parkway Drainage
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN ASSESSOR DAVID UNMACK
Set Public Hearing for Special Districts Assessment Roll
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAYMOND DLUGOKINSKI
Employee Retirement
3. New Hire
RECREATION DIRECTOR LINDA TUFILLARO
4. Part Time Winter Hire
Hire Recreation Attendant
Veterans Park Enhancement Project
Division for Youth Reimbursement
Parking - Veterans Park Area
Creating Account of Funds for Aesthetic Development of Veterans Park
ENRICHMENT & REFERRAL CENTER
Letter of Resignation
REALITY CAFE
Leave of Absence
WATER SUPERINTENDENT JOHN MARTIN
12. Emergency Plans and Vulnerability Assessments
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
LINCOLN AND BARBARA NUTTING
Exception to Subdivision Regulations - Vacant Lot Adjacent to 3722 East River Road
ANDREW T. CONTA
2. Removal of U.S. Postal Collection Boxes
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Highway Superintendent - Advertise For Bids for New 2003 Warner Swasey Gradall and New 2003 Mobile Road Sweeper
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Bernice Ciszek
John ‘Jack’ Costanzo
Marjorie (Blackmore) Gilmore
Margaret M. Ragnar
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2002 - 3:15 PM
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
Pay Raises Are Cut To Increase Drainage Improvements
By Joelle Logue
November 18, 2002 . . .The Town Board Monday passed amendments to the budget proposed by the three Republicans. A resolution by Council Kevin Rustowicz to cut the tax rate by 10 percent failed to garner any support and was solidly criticized by other town board members for lacking a plan to make the cuts. It was the same resolution made by Rustowicz last year.
The amendments brought forth by Dick Crawford, Mary Cooke and Dan Robillard will not change the proposed budget rate but instead give additional funds to the Drainage Improvements Program. An increase of $25,000 for drainage will come from eliminating a 2.5% pay raise across the board and eliminating a proposed increase in part time help for the town clerk's office. It also cut the town's legal fees by $10,000 and excluded the Youth Advisory Board line item of $1350 due to the fact the board did not submit a budget on time.
In commenting on the budget, Crawford said "conservative approaches over the past years have kept fund balances at adequate levels to prevent double-digit tax increases and that increases in the town tax rate have been minimal since 1994."
Next year's budget for general and highway has a combined tax rate of $4.99 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, an increase of 4.6 percent over this year. There is a 10.4 percent decrease in the water budget and water rates remain the same at $2.45 per 1,000 gallons used. The sewer budget also shows a decrease, 10.5 percent with sewer rates staying the same at $3.70 per 1,000 gallons. The garbage and refuse fund is $715,000, up a $1 from this year, and lighting is $154,043.
The 2003 budget includes double-digit increases in health care and insurance. The increase in the pension fund contribution could top $300,000 due to poor stock market performance. The assessed value of Grand Island homes is about 62 percent of fair market value.
Committees Formed, Fire Company Budget Hearing Set
By Joelle Logue
November 18, 2002 . . .Supervisor Peter McMahon announced Monday that a Supervisor's Committee on Citizens' Corps will be formed and would include several pieces and be a self-help community guide for preparedness in case of a widespread disaster. Among the pieces is a Neighborhood Watch system already partially in place in the community, a Medical Reserve Corps, and a Community Emergency Response Training (CERT) which would guide individuals to help themselves. Citizen volunteers with military and police expertise would also be called upon to assist in times of an emergency when surrounding communities are also affected by a disaster involving Western New York as a whole. Interested citizens are asked to contact the supervisor and a preliminary meeting date will be announced at the next town board meeting.
Another committee to address Peace Bridge location plans will formally be put in place to deal with the Peace Bridge Authority as it considers sites for a new international bridge. Several citizens are already actively involved and others are invited to join. A meeting will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at Town Hall and all are invited to come and participate in strategies. Councilwoman Mary Cooke and Supervisor Peter McMahon reminded residents that consultants will be meeting on bridge plans Saturday, December 7, 2002 at WNED Studios and urged Islanders to be there to vote down proposals that impact Grand Island.
A public hearing on the 2003 Fire Company Contract will take place at the next town board meeting, 8 p.m. Monday, December 2. The Fire Company budget is $673,500 to be paid quarterly by the town and the money will be used for the maintenance and upkeep of its fire-fighting equipment. The Fire Company will respond to all fire and first aid calls and operate a Public Service Answering Point (PSAP) as part of the Erie County E-911 system. In addition, the town will be named as additional insured under the Fire Company's insurance policy and the fire company will maintain liability insurance in the amount of $6 million.
Special use permits were renewed for a construction yard operated by John Lexo at 2527 Bedell Road, the keeping of five horses by Shirley Schultz at 2661 Fix Road, and the keeping of a horse by Robert Luthringer at 2723 Staley Road.
A revised site plan for a recreational pond expansion by Gary Halliwell at 1925 Bedell Road was approved provided the pond did not exceed .33 acres and with the understanding that the work would be subject to inspection by the building department and that safety postings would be installed.
Site plan approval was given for proposed berms at River Oaks Golf Course on Whitehaven Road and a revised site plan for VIP Pharmaceuticals' expanded parking lot was given the green light with modifications to the storm drainage detention facility, added trees and concrete gutters.
In other business, the board:
Peace Bridge Meeting Tuesday
An open meeting will be held in Town Hall at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 26, 2002 to discuss the Peace Bridge alternatives, which effect Grand Island. The meeting will discuss the Peace Bridge staff recommendations for alternate sites on or near the Island.
This meeting will continue to develop strategy for the December 7th public vote on the thirty alternate sites including those on or near Grand Island. The public is encouraged to attend to get the facts.
IMMEDIATE OPENING
Town of Grand Island Clerk Typist - Part-Time
Nov. 21, 2002. . . The Town of Grand Island is seeking a qualified candidate for the position of Clerk Typist part-time in the Enrichment and Referral Department nineteen hours per week. You must possess a high school diploma and be proficient in Word and Excel. Starting salary is $8.00/ hr. A letter of interest including qualifications to:
Kim Auger
Enrichment & Referral Department
2255 Baseline Road
Grand Island, N.Y. 14072
Letter received prior to December 6, 2002 will be considered.
IMMEDIATE OPENING
Town of Grand Island Recreation Attendant - Part Time
Nov. 21, 2002. . .The Town of Grand Island - Reality Café is seeking qualified candidates to provide supervision, site management and maintenance of facility safety standards. A youth center environment schedule includes five hours per week on Friday and/or Saturday evening. Desirable qualifications include a college degree and experience working with young adults. Starting pay is $6.02/hr. A letter of interest including qualifications to:
Town Supervisor Peter McMahon
2255 Baseline Road
Grand Island, N.Y. 14072
Letters received prior to December 6th will be considered.
Peace Bridge Expansion Project Update -
Over 100 Residents Attend Meeting
The following has been provided by Supervisor Peter A. McMahon, following the public meeting of November 13, 2002.
Approximately 100 people, mostly residents of Grand Island, filled the courtroom at Town Hall on Thursday (Nov. 13, 2002) evening to hear a presentation on plans for expansion of the Peace Bridge. The meeting, which was arranged by the Grand Island Town Board, brought the Peace Bridge consultants to the Island to review the five proposals which impact Grand Island and to answer questions from the public.
Vincent P. "Jake" Lamb, Peace Bridge expansion project manager, reviewed the five proposed sites on or near Grand Island. Two of the proposals actually cross the Island while the remaining three cross the Niagara River near the south tip of the Island, in the vicinity of Strawberry Island. During his presentation, Lamb acknowledged a meeting with Grand Island officials last July during which a number of significant objections and issues were raised. He also displayed a copy of a resolution, adopted by the Grand Island Town Board, which formally requested that the consultants drop any consideration of the five sites. As a result of the Town Board's opposition, Lamb said that they would not be recommending either of the two sites that actually cross the Island.
More than a dozen people spoke in opposition to one or more of the five sites. It was clear from the public comments, that there are significant environmental issues with each of the five sites. In the case of the two proposed Grand Island sites, the concerns included traffic, noise, pollution, access issues, property values, security issues, wetland disturbance and various impacts to the habitat in the East branch of the Niagara River near Strawberry Island. A number of significant environmental concerns were raised for the three sites South of Grand Island. The major issues involved nesting and migratory birds including the largest rookery for Blue Heron in the State of New York, internationally recognized spawning grounds for muskellunge, along with all of the issues which were previously mentioned.
Sometime next week, the Peace Bridge consultants will release a staff report which will include their recommendations on which site should be given further study. Copies of the staff report will be available on the Peace Bridge expansion project website, www.PeaceBridgeX.com. The report should be available on or about November 20, 2002.
The next step in the process will be a meeting on Saturday, December 7, 2002 when public participants will be voting to select five final sites for further consideration. Among the voters' choices will be the two sites on Grand Island and the three sites immediately south of the Island. Concerned residents have already begun working to make sure that Islanders attend the meeting and cast their votes. In the past, public participation at the Peace Bridge expansion meetings has averaged around 200 people per meeting. Organizers hope to have at least that many Grand Island residents in attendance on December 7.
A committee has been formed to coordinate efforts to keep the Peace Bridge off Grand Island. Anyone interested in serving on this committee or who can attend the meeting on December 7 is asked to contact any member of the Town Board. Residents can send an email to townboard@gand-island.ny.us or call 773-9600, ext. #616 and are asked to provide their name and phone number.
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 21 Date: NOVEMBER 18, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: St. Timothy Lutheran Church
PLEDGE: Councilwoman Cooke
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
PROCLAMATIONS:
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of November 4, 2002 Town Board Meeting of November 6, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M. NONE
CONSENT AGENDA
1. New York State Police - Click It or Ticket Campaign Support
2. Building Permits - October 2002
3. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meeting: October 3, 2002
4. Golden Age Center - Usage of Vehicles and Facilities for October 2002
5. Animal Control Statistics - September and October 2002
6. Planning Board - Minutes of Meeting: October 14, 2002
7. CTC Progress Report
8. Board of Architectural Review - Minutes of Meeting: October 14, 2002
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Adopt 2003 Budget
2. Formation of a Supervisor’s Committee on Citizen Corps
3. Grand Island Fire Company Contract - Set Public Hearing
4. Appoint Temporary Senior Water Plant Operator
5. Empire State Games 2003
COUNCILMAN RUSTOWICZ
6. Resolution for 2003 Property Tax Reduction
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewals:
A. John C. Lexo 2527 Bedell Road - Construction Yard
B. Shirley Schultz 2661 Fix Road - Five (5) Horses
C. Robert Luthringer 2723 Staley Road - Keeping of One (1) Horse
PLANNING BOARD
2. Revised Site Plan - Gary Halliwell 1925 Bedell Road for Recreational Pond Expansion
3. Site Plan Approval - River Oaks Golf Course 201 & 817 Whitehaven Road
4. Revised Site Plan - VIP Pharmaceuticals 300 Alt Boulevard
5. Site Plan Approval - Fred and Bonnie Albrecht 3510 East River Road
6. Abandonment of Paper Street - Bill Torchia 2940 Bedell Road
TOWN ACCOUNTANT PAM WHITNEY
7. Budget Amendment - Reality Café
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DLUGOKINSKI
8. Employee Position Upgrade
9. New Hire
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
10. Re-approval Majestic Woods Subdivision Phase 1
11. Site Plan Approval - Proposed Building Addition at 1741 Baseline Road
12. P.I.P. for Oakwood Estates at River Oaks
TOWN ATTORNEY
13. Lease Agreement for Grand Island Small Business Assistant Center
WASTEWATER WAYNE CLINTON
14. Authorize to Extend Sludge Hauling Contract
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
MICHAEL A. JUDD
1. Legal Advertisements on Town Web Site
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Gladys (Giering) Sloan
Laura M. Conboy
Barbara J. (Smith) Study
Lewis Frankenfield
Gay Marie (Walker) Macro
Town of Grand Island Advisory Board Openings
The Town of Grand Island may have vacancies on one or more advisory boards in 2003. Advisory boards include Architectural Review Board, Board of Ethics, Cable TV Committee, Commission for Conservation of the Environment, Community Enrichment Council, Economic Development Committee, Historical Preservation Committee, Human Right Commission, Library Board of Trustees, Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, Planning Board, Traffic Safety Advisory Board, Youth Advisory Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals. Anyone interested in being considered for appointment to a board should submit a letter of interest to:
Supervisor Peter McMahon
Town Hall, 2255 Baseline Road
Please include any relevant experience or special talent in the letter. The application deadline is December 6th, 2002. For more information contact any member of the Town Board.
Planning Board Meeting Agenda
The Grand Island Planning Board will meet in the Town Hall Conference Room at 7:30 p.m., Monday, November 11, 2002. Click Planning Board for complete agenda.
2003 Town Budget Approved
November 6, 2002 . . .A public hearing on the proposed 2003 town budget held Wednesday evening, November 6 in Town Hall was attended by town board members, the deputy town clerk and the town attorney only. Supervisor Peter A. McMahon read the following figures for the General Fund:
Total appropriation amount: $4,879,173
Amount to be raised by taxation: $1,556,351
Tax Rate: $2,656 per thousand A. V.
With no one appearing in the affirmative or the negative, the supervisor declared the General Fund budget hearing closed.
All other proposed budget figures were also approved. Click Town Budget 2003 for exact figures.
Public Information Meeting Date: NOVEMBER 14, 2002
A public meeting regarding the Peace Bridge Expansion Project is scheduled for 7 p.m., Thursday, November 14, 2002 in the Grand Island Town Hall Courtroom.
Spending Cap Put In Place Thru End Of Year
By Joelle Logue
November 4, 2002 . . .After much discussion Monday regarding the semantics of a proposed spending cap through December 2002 proposed by Council members Mary Cooke, Dick Crawford and Dan Robillard, the board passed a resolution to have all expenditures over $500 submitted to the supervisor for approval. The action was prompted by uncertainty over an inflated pension fund that the town is facing in 2003, an estimated increase of $250,000 over this year.
An amendment to the resolution by Councilman Kevin Rustowicz called for a freeze on all expenditures and asked that the supervisor provide a report justifying those expenditures he approved. Rustowicz also added that a freeze be put on all hiring with the exception of essential personnel.
The Republicans agreed to the addition of the supervisor's report but were unwilling to freeze all expenditures including hiring. The resolution passed 3-1 with Rustowicz opposing.
Special use renewals were approved for the following: Jennifer Shanor for the keeping of five horses and a barn at 2855 Staley Road; Susan Fadel for three horses at 2773 Love Road; Michael and Judith Schneider for three horses at 1952 Harvey Road; and David Wunsch for two horses at 3072 Stony Point Road.
Sent to the Planning Board for review and recommendation were site plans for proposed berms at River Oaks Golf Course, proposed fill for a lot north of Fred and Bonnie Albrecht's residence at 3510 East River Road, and proposed expansion of a parking lot to allow for 59 new spaces at VIP Pharmaceuticals, 3000 Alt Blvd.
In other business, the board:
Town Employee Evaluation Program Approved
By Joelle Logue
November 4, 2002 . . .Following a year of work developing an employee evaluation form, the town board Monday approved a process to evaluate employees upon completion of evaluator training.
As part of the town's Human Resources policies and procedures, the purpose of the evaluation program is "to insure that each town employee gets advice from an immediate supervisor on how to do a better job and to enable each town employee to discuss with his/her supervisor opportunities to provide a greater contribution and/or areas in which the employee feels more development would be beneficial."
The policy provides that at the end of the probationary period and annually all employees will undergo a performance appraisal conducted by each employee's department head or, for employees who answer directly to the town board, by the board or its designee. These appraisals are designed to give employees a better understanding of what is expected of them and add perspective on how he or she is doing. Development goals and steps to reach these goals are also discussed. Several forms will be used to evaluate an employee's performance on a variety of levels.
Isle Peace Bridge Possibilities Prompt Town Resolution
By Joelle Logue
November 4, 2002 . . .Five plans to position the Peace Bridge on or near Grand Island have prompted the town board to send a strong message to the Bridge Authority in the form of a resolution. Monday the town board stated that any project site on or near the town of Grand Island would involve significant, inescapable and extremely negative consequences for the community and its environment. A resolution urging the Peace Bridge Expansion Project Committee to focus their future selection activities on bridge and plaza designs in and around the alternatives that are closer to Buffalo and the existing Peace Bridge (plans 1 thru 8) was approved unanimously.
The Grand Island locations are secondary to eight primary sites in the design selection process, but the mere possibility of the bridge locating here has town officials and residents concerned that the safety and tranquility of the Island is threatened by these proposals.
Mary Beth Bush of West Oakfield spoke regarding the upcoming meeting with the Bridge Authority slated for 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14, 2002 at Town Hall. She expressed the importance of Island residents rallying in opposition of any Grand Island bridge plan and hopes to see an overflow crowd in attendance. Councilwoman Mary Cooke also urged residents to attend the fourth workshop on the Peace Bridge proposals set for 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, 2002 at WNED Studios when a revote will be taken on bridge preferences. Cooke added that she knows there is a healthy contingent of Buffalo residents who are organized and will be on hand to vote for alternative plans to the eight primary selections.
Councilman Dick Crawford, standing in for Supervisor Peter McMahon, suggested that to move the location of the Peace Bridge would obviously cost far more than building a new bridge in the present location.
Advisory Board Members Sought
By Joelle Logue
November 4, 2002 . . .The town board, Monday, authorized the supervisor to advertise for 2003 Advisory Board positions. Those wishing to serve on any of town's advisory boards are asked to send letters of interest to Supervisor Peter McMahon, 2255 Baseline Road by 5 p.m. Wednesday, November 27.
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA – WORKSHOP # 38
6:30 P.M. – Monday, November 4, 2002
I MOTION FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION
A. Personnel Matter
B. Contract Negotiations – Update
C. Legal Matter – Update
II AGENDA REVIEW
III NEW ITEMS
A. Town Board Workshop Schedule – see attached with note
B. Legal Services – RFQ
C. Welcome to Grand Island Signs – Chamber of Commerce Request
D. Nike Base – Tennis Court Lights
E. Small Business Assistance Advisory Board
F. Dunlop Building – Update
G. Garden Parkway Drainage
H. Policies
1. Recreation/Athletic Field Use
2. Water Meter Reading
I. Time Capsule – Location?
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
A. Bonding – Mining/Ponds
B. Update Honor Roll – DeGlopper Monument
C. Drainage
1. Town Wide
2. Neighborhood
D. Sign Ordinance
E. Plumbing Ordinance
F. Town Hall Signs
G. Holiday Decorations – Town Center
H. Citizen Patrol
V ROUNDTABLE
Public Hearing On Proposed 2003 Town Budget Set
By Joelle Logue
October 28, 2002 . . .Grand Island taxpayers will be able to comment on the proposed 2003 town budget during a public hearing scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 6, 2002 in Town Hall.
Increases in the proposed general fund budget including a 2.5 percent raise for all town employees, a 16 percent increase in health insurance and a retirement-incentive buyback increase that is budgeted at $300,000 (up $249,000 from this year) result in a proposed 1.6% increase in the total tax rate. The huge increase attributed to retirement is due to the stock market being down, however McMahon says Albany is expecting it to rebound somewhat over the next year. "We will be watching this very closely," McMahon added.
As far as special districts go, the proposed water budget ($2,305,157) shows a decrease of 65 cents and the sewer fund ($2398,755) is recommended at a 55 cent decrease per $1000 of assessed valuation.
The proposed garbage fund, at $715,600, is up 1.8 percent over this year. The lighting budget is set at $140,000, unchanged from last year as is fire protection budgeted at $692,752. Highway is budgeted at $1,656,017.
The town board will hold another budget workshop Friday, Nov. 8, 2002 at 4 p.m. to consider any comments made at Wednesday's public hearing. Click Town Budget 2003 for exact figures.
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 20 Date: NOVEMBER 4, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: Whitehaven Baptist Church
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: Whitehaven Baptist Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Robillard
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of October 21, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M. NONE
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Ottaviano & Sansone, L.L.P. - Proposed Wilson Farms Store at Ransom/Stony Point
2. State University at Albany-2002 Annual Report of Center for Technology in Government
3. DOT to Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation re. Sidewalk Extension of Parkway
4. Minutes of ECEMC Meeting: September 17, 2002 & Report on October 19, 2002
5. Grand Island Youth Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: September 12, 2002
6. Fujisawa Health Care, Inc.- Application to DEC for a SPDES Permit
7. Erie County - Fully Executed Copy of STOP - DWI Contract for 2001
8. Seneca Nation of Indians v NYS, et al. - Second Circuit of Court of Appeals
9. Erie County Comptroller - Sales Tax Revenues for October 2002
10. Operation ABC Mobilization/ Click It or Ticket Program
11. Reality Café Attendance
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
TOWN BOARD
1. Peace Bridge Resolution
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
2. Monthly Report - October 2002
3. Insurance Program
4. 2003 Advisory Board Openings
5. Employee Evaluation Program
COUNCILPERSONS COOKE, CRAWFORD & ROBILLARD
6. Budget Freeze
COUNCILMAN CRAWFORD
7. Signage
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewals:
A. Jennifer L. Shanor 2855 Staley Road - Five (5) Horses & One Barn
B. Susan Fadel 2773 Love Road - Keep Three (3) Equine Animals (Horses)
C. Michael & Judith Schneider 1952 Harvey Road - Keeping of Three (3) Horses
D. David Wunsch 3072 Stony Point - Keeping of Two (2) Horses
WATER SUPERINTENDENT JOHN MARTIN
2. Delinquent Water and Sewer Accounts for 2003 Tax Rolls
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DLUGOKINSKI
3. Appointment of Temporary Working Crew Chiefs 4. New Hire
WASTEWATER SUPERINTENDENT WAYNE CLINTON
5. Renew Co-op Resolution with City of Niagara Falls for Chemical Purchases
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
6. Site Plan Approval - Proposed Berms River Oaks Golf Course 201 & 817 Whitehaven
7. Site Plan Approval - Proposed Fill at 3510 East River Road
8. Revised Site Plan - VIP Pharmaceuticals 3000 Alt Boulevard
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL NONE
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Highway Superintendent Request to Advertise for Bids - 2003 Grade All & 2003 Sweeper
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Lillian Mesmer
Larry Playfair Honored by Town Board
As a surprise to Larry Playfair, he and the Playfair family were specially recognized at the Town Board meeting on Monday, October 21, 2002 when a Town Proclamation was read honoring Mr. Playfair for being named to the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame. The Playfair Family has lived on Grand Island for several years and has been active in town projects and activities.
School Board Recognized By Town Board
The Grand Island School Board was recognized Monday, October 21, 2002 for their service to Grand Island by a Proclamation for "School Board Recognition" during the coming month. Supervisor Peter McMahon is shown left with School Board President Jeri Schopp, and School Board members David Goris and Myrna Blair who were on hand for the presentation.
Town Board News - 10/21/02
Click Town Board Story for coverage of the October 21, 2002 town board meeting.
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2002
6:30 PM
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
RE: 2003 BUDGET
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
TOWN BOARD, TOWN ENGINEER, AND ARCHITECT
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2002
3:00 PM
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2002
8:00 AM
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
RE: PROPOSED CHANGES ZONING CODE AND MAP
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 19 Date: OCTOBER 21, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: St. Martin-In-The-Fields Episcopal Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Rustowicz
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
PROCLAMATIONS:
SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION WEEK
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of October 7, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Conservation Commission - Minutes of Meeting: September 9, 2002
2. CTC Communications - Notice of Voluntary Chapter 11 Filing
3. State Department of Health - Drinking Water State Revolving Fund
4. Erie County Home Energy Assistance Program Meetings
5. Safety Committee Minutes: August 28, 2002
6. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: September 10, 2002
7. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meeting: September 5, 2002
8. Library Board of Trustees - Minutes of Meeting: July 11, 2002
9. Board of Architectural Review - Minutes of Meeting: September 9, 2002
10. Planning Board - Minutes of Meeting: September 9, 2002
11. Erie County Division of Budget, Management & Finance-2003 Town Budget Deadline
12. County of Erie - Oral Rabies Vaccine Program
13. Civil Action - Seneca Nation v. State of New York State, et al
14. "Operation Safe Stop" Report
15. State Office of Real Property Services - Distribution of 2002 Star Program
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Supervisor’s Report - September 2002
2. Proposed Stop Sign at Red Jacket & East Park
3. Public Service Commission re Cable Television Franchise
Set Public Hearing – 2003 Budget
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewal: Paul Ianni 828 East River Road for Keeping of Three (3) Riding Horses on 4 Acres
PLANNING BOARD
2. Town Hall Terrace - Revised Site Plan
3. Michael Samland 2944 Westwood - Abandonment of Fourth Street
4. Granson Geis 2920 Stony Point - Residence Access and House Number
5. Bill Torchia 2940 Bedell Road - Abandonment of Fourth Street
6. Design Standards From Zoning Law - Site Plan Approval Jurisdiction
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
7. Revised Site Plan - Recreational Pond Expansion for 1925 Bedell Road
8. P.I.P. for Tops Express at 2130 Grand Island Boulevard
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT
9. Employee’s Retirement Letter
10. Advertise for Bids - 2002 Grade All & 2003 Road Sweeper
REALITY CAFÉ
11. Request for Larger Quarters
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
G.I.F.T.S.
1. Approval of Proposed 2003 Erie County Youth Grant Application
TRUDY O’CONNOR
2. Petition to Retain Residential Zoning - Niagara Sailing Club on East River Road
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Michael Giambra
Mary A. Killian
Dolores S. Rogers
Hoyt Announces $50,000 Grant For Vet's Park
Shown from left are Councilman Dan Robillard, Recreation Director Linda Tufillaro, Assemblymen Sam Hoyt, Supervisor Peter McMahon and Councilwoman Mary Cooke.
Barbi Lare Photo
Assemblymember Sam Hoyt presented the Town of Grand Island with $50,000 in state grant money for improvements to one of Grand Island's most popular recreation areas, Veteran's Park. The funding will go towards a new softball field in the park.
"Quality of life is why people choose to live on Grand Island. I hope that investing in a softball field will be a home run for enhancing recreational opportunities for the families of Grand Island," Hoyt said Tuesday (Oct. 15, 2002).
Veteran's Park is a 126-acre plot that was originally donated, in part, by the Jerome Funk family. Through a grant to Grand Island, the Funks contributed 100 acres to the town to be used as a park. Local developers donated the other 26 acres to complete this popular site. The park has been a favorite of bikers, joggers and picnickers for a number of years. Veteran's Park on Bedell Road also houses eight Little League baseball fields, 10 soccer fields, one Little League football field, two basketball courts, two volleyball courts and a seasonal ice rink. In addition, the park is also home to the Grand Island Memorial Library.
The $50,000 capital grant, derived from the Restore New York program, will be the largest contribution to building a state-fo-the-art softball field in Vet's Park. The entire project has a price tag of approximately $60,000, the rest of which will be footed by the Town of Grand Island.
Town of Grand Island Supervisor Peter A. McMahon stated this week that, "We're very pleased to have Sam's help again, especially on this particular project. Our youth softball program is growing by leaps and bounds and the diamond is desperately in need of repair."
"It's great! A softball diamond is needed and wanted by both the adults and children of our community," Recreation Director Linda Tufillaro said. "I'm so glad to see it happening in Veteran's Park," she said.
Re-zoning Issues Bring Large Crowd To Public Hearing
By Joelle Logue
October 7, 2002 . . .Nearly eight years after the adoption of the Comprehensive Master Plan and after two lengthy public hearings over the summer, the subject of re-zoning on Grand Island still musters a huge audience. So it was Monday when another hearing, this time on the Draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (DSGEIS) and zoning map caused an overflow crowd to listen from the lobby. Changes to the zoning due to those summer hearings forced yet another hearing and comments from nearly 30 speakers and led to the board referring the DSFEIS back to the board for further review. In addition, the public has a 10-day written comment period that ends October 17, 2002 at 5 p.m.
If the town board makes few to no changes to the existing plan, the FEIS could possibly be adopted at the October 21, 2002 meeting with the adoption of the findings following at the November 4 meeting. But most speaking at Monday's meeting want more tweaking and want the town board to take its time.
Most of the comments centered around three trouble spots. One is the hamlet described in the new zoning which a proposed Wilson Farms project at the corner of Ransom and Stony Point roads would jeopardize according to opposition voiced Monday. Another is the Niagara Sailing Club on East River Road that is presently zoned residential but is to change to B1. That zoning change came from the state Water Revitalization plan devised to create more public access to the river around Grand Island. However, apparently there are deed restrictions to keep it residential and those will be checked.
The third spot is the Webb Road area where residents are demanding a 200 ft. buffer against a plan for moderate density (six units to acre) which had originally been designated high density (12 units per acre) as recommended by the Master Plan. Thus, both the Webb Road residents and those owning the vacant land next to them are unhappy with the changes.
William W. Tuyn, a planner with Jeffrey Palumbo law office and representing Webb Road residents, said residents are concerned there will be an apartment complex next to them and asked that the current zoning of residential stay in place.
However, John Simon, owner of vacant land on Webb Road wants to build a driving range and Sue and Randy Hillock, who also own land on Webb Road, had hoped to build townhouses under the Master Plan proposed zoning of 12 units per acre. In addressing the town board, Mrs. Hillock wondered why the board was lessening density in other areas according to the plan but not keeping with high density in the center of town that was recommended after thousands of dollars worth of studies.
The new zoning schedule provides for 24 classifications of zoning rather than the six currently used now.
Owners Now Responsible For Vet Fees When Pet Is Impounded
By Joelle Logue
No comments were made during a public hearing held Monday, October 7, 2002 on proposed Local Law 3 2002 which makes owners liable for veterinary fees incurred during the time a pet is impounded. The town board, hearing no opposition, unanimously passed the law.
Ideas for using community block grant funding will be entertained at a public hearing scheduled for Monday, November 4, 2002 at 8 p.m. during the regularly scheduled Town Board meeting.
The town board recognized, via a proclamation, the efforts of the Bridgeview Garden Club which distributed more than 400 bookmarks detailing the history of the White Oak trees on Grand Island and for facilitating the planting of more than two dozen oak trees throughout the community.
Four special use renewals were granted: one to Joseph Higgins at 900 Ransom Road for the keeping of three horses on 4.35 acres; another to Cathleen Shaw at 3054 Stony Point for the keeping of two horses on 3.5 acres; one to Lee and Jolie Celano at 2341 Falls Link Road for the keeping of two horses on 3.4 acres; and, lastly, to Kathleen Doldan at 1505 Huth for the keeping of horses on 3.38 acres (presently there are none).
Water Department appointments were as follows: Donald Hoover as working crew chief effective October 8 at $20.69 per hour and Robert Alaimo as maintenance worker effective October 8. A laborer's position will now be posted in the Water Department for the vacancy opened up by Alaimo.
The board accepted the public streets and easements for Park Place Subdivision - Phase II contingent on the following: complete disinfection and bacterial tests of waterline be done; benches are poured in all sanitary manholes; storm sewer and waterline under south turnaround wings are extended, south turnaround wings are constructed and final inspection be completed by water, wastewater and highway departments.
In a workshop prior to the town board meeting, the board set budget workshops for October 15 at 7:30 p.m., October 16 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 19, 2002 from 7:30-10:30 a.m.
In other business, the board:
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 18 Date: OCTOBER 7, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: Trinity United Methodist Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Crawford
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
PROCLAMATIONS:
BRIDGEVIEW GARDEN CLUB
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of September 16, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. LOCAL LAW INTRO # 3 of 2002 ASSESSMENT OF VETERINARY SERVICES FOR IMPOUNDED DOGS
2. PROPOSED NEW ZONING CODE AND MAP FOR TOWN OF GRAND ISLAND CONSENT AGENDA
1. Youth Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: June 4, 2002
2. New York State Police - "Operation Safe-Stop"
3. Conservation Commission - Minutes of Meetings: June 12 & Aug. 8, 2002
4. Animal Control Statistics - August 2002
5. Town of Ithaca - Fee Schedule Analysis
6. Inventory for Highway Department Machinery, Tools and Equipment
7. WebTrends - Report of Grand Island Website
8. Golden Age Center - Usage of Vehicles and Facilities for September 2002
9. Building Permits - September 2002
10. Erie County Commission on the Status of Women - Talent Bank Survey Results
11. Civil Action - Seneca Nation of Indians vs. the State of New York
12. BFI - Recyclable Contamination
13. Department of Environment & Planning - Annual Community Assessment/2001 Program
14. Erie County Sales Tax Distribution for September 2002
15. ECIDA November 4, 2002 Public Hearing for 2002 Invitrogen Corporation Project
16. State Attorney General’s Office - Fourth Annual Neighborhood Watch Conference
17. Reality Café Attendance Report
18. Town of Grand Island: EPCRA Consent Agreement/Final Order
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Housing and Community Development Act Contract with Erie County
2. Set Public Hearing for Community Development Block Grant
3. Board of Assessment Review Appointment
4. Water Department Working Crew Chief
5. C.S.E.A. Memorandum of Agreement Regarding Code Enforcement Officers
6. "The Grand Crafts on the Island" for June 28-29, 2003
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewals:
A. Joseph Higgins 900 Ransom Road - Three Horses on 4.35 Acres/Conditions
B. Cathleen Shaw 3054 Stony Point - Personal Use of Two Horses
C. Lee & Joie Celano 2341 Falls Link - Keeping up to Three Equine Animals
D. Kathleen Doldan 1505 Huth - House Two Horses on 3.385 Acres
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
2. Boiler Replacement at Grand Island Library
3. Town Hall Terrace- New Apartments
CONSERVATION COMMISSION/PESTICIDE SUBCOMMITTEE
4. Town Pesticide Use
RECREATION DIRECTOR LINDA TUFILLARO
5. Set Date for Town Auction Items
PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD
6. Master Plan/Autumnwood Trails
7. Maintenance Building Plan
TOWN ATTORNEY
8. Acceptance of Public Streets and Related Easements - Park Place Subdivision Sec. 2
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
DIANE HASSAN
1. Stop Sign Request
MICHAEL SAMLAND
2. Abandonment of Paper Street
G. GRANSON GEIS
3. Residence Access and House Number
BILL TORCHIA
4. Abandonment of Paper Street
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Sheila A. Martin
Edith E. (Ernst) Andrews
Supervisor Recommends 2003 Budget Figures
From the Office of Town Supervisor Peter A. McMahon. . .September 30, 2002
"In the General Fund, Department Head appropriation requests totaled $5,431,899. I’m recommending appropriations totaling $4,942,039. The proposed tax rate is $2.656 per $1,000 of Assessed Value, which is an increase of 5.7% over the current year.
"There are significant increases in appropriations for the retirement incentive including buybacks ($148,481). We estimate health insurance premium increases at 15% ($100,948) and general insurance premium increases at 20% ($22,000). The proposed budget contains a 2.5% increase in wages.
"On the General Fund revenue side, we’re proposing very modest increases in sales and mortgage tax revenue. Other revenues are projected at current levels.
"In the Highway Fund, the recommended appropriations total $1,659,830 that would require a tax rate of $2.34 per $1,000, which is a 3.4% increase over this year.
"The Highway Fund appropriations show increases for retirement costs and the same level of increases for insurance coverage. These three items total $95,148. Highway Fund revenue projections remain unchanged.
"Copies of the Fire Protection and Debt Service Funds are also attached. Copies of the Water and Wastewater Budgets were provided to you on September 12th.
"The Sewer Fund tax rate was recommended at $4.71 per $1,000 (based only on the land value). The current sewer tax rate is $5.26. The tax rate recommended is a 55¢ per $1,000 or 10.5% decrease. Sewer rents remain unchanged at $3.70 per 1,000 gallons of water used.
"The Water Fund tax rate was recommended at $5.63 per $1,000 of land value. That compares with a tax rate of $6.28 in the current year. The recommended decrease in the Water Fund tax rate is 65¢ per $1,000 or 10.4%. Water Rents remain unchanged at $2.45 per 1,000 gallons used."
Dates will be set for Budget Workshops and the Public Hearing during the October 7, 2002 Workshop.
CANCELLED - Public Information Meeting
The public information meeting regarding Peace Bridge Alternatives and scheduled for October 10, 2002 has been cancelled.
Hearing On Isle-wide Rezoning Set
By Joelle Logue
Sept. 17, 2002 . . .The town board, Monday, set a public hearing for 8 p.m. Monday, October 7, 2002 on the proposed new zoning code, including a zoning map and the Draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (DSGEIS). In addition, comments on the code and the DSGEIS will be accepted in writing until 5 p.m. October 17 in the office of the Town Clerk. The zoning map can be viewed online at Grand-Island.ny.us and maps are available to view as well in the Town Clerk's office and the Grand Island Memorial Library.
Due to the importance of such a broad re-zoning, the town is hoping to have post cards sent to all property owners regarding the hearing. Mailing labels are being sought through the State Real Property Office and if the town gets them in time, the cards will be sent.
The town also set a public hearing for October 7 on proposed Local Law 3 that would charge necessary veterinary fees for impounded dogs to the owner. Those fees, if needed to protect the health and welfare of the dog, would be added to the impoundment fee.
Representatives from Tops were on hand Monday to hear the board approve their site plan for Tops Express at 2130 Grand Island Blvd. A driveway will be allowed to accommodate delivery trucks, 40 percent will be landscaped and DEC and EPA requirements will be met. A sidewalk will be constructed and an island will be striped. A concrete gutter was part of the original proposal and that issue will be resolved.
In other business, the board:
GI Business Assistance Center Lease Approved
By Joelle Logue
The Supervisor's Economic Development Committee got a green light Monday (Sept. 16, 2002) when the town board approved the signing of a 3-month lease with IsleChem (formerly Occidental Chemical) on Long Road. Dr. Charles Rader of IsleChem has generously offered to donate office space and equipment and permit use of training rooms, a conference center, computers and local phone service to the Assistance Center for the purpose of attracting new businesses to the Island.
The lease and release of $3000 of donated money by M&T Bank are subject to a 30-day permissive referendum and approval of the lease by the town attorney. A 12-month lease beginning January 1, 2003 and release of additional donated money by Assemblyman Sam Hoyt in the amount of $10,000 will be figured into the town budget for 2003.
Hunting License Deadline Extended
Computer glitches related to a new computer system for generating hunting licenses have made getting a hunting license difficult for many and the deadline for licenses has been extended to October 15.
The Department of Environmental Conservation said that unfortunately there was no time to fix the glitches in the new computer system before launching it the end of August. Interruptions in the program were noted throughout the state and, in many places, hunters found themselves waiting for hours. Others ran out of time and had to leave empty-handed.
"It's been a really tough couple of weeks," said Grand Island Town Clerk Nancy Samrany. "I've spent a lot of time in the foyer apologizing to hunters. Some of them have had to come back three or four times."
However, Samrany reported that license supplies are now available in the town clerk's office and it's business as usual for issuing hunting licenses.
2002/2003 School Tax Bills Mailed
Town Clerk Nancy Samrany announced that the 2002/2003 School Tax Bills have been mailed. If you have changed banks, have paid off your mortgage or do not have an escrow account and did not receive a tax bill, please contact the Town Clerk’s office at 773-9600 ext. 620. The office will be open 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Saturday, October 12, 2002. Checks should be made payable to Town Clerk. The last day to pay without penalty is October 15, 2002. Envelopes must show a legible postmark of October 15, 2002 to be accepted on time. Taxpayers should call the office for correct amounts for payments made October 16, 2002 and later. Personal checks are not accepted after November 15, 2002 and payments can be made until December 2, 2002. After this date, payments must be sent to the County.
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 17 Date: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: St. Stephen’s Roman Catholic Church
PLEDGE: Councilwoman Cooke
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of September 3, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M. NONE
CONSENT AGENDA
1. State Comptroller’s Office - Satellite Teleconference for Town Clerks
2. Golden Age Center - Usage of Facilities and Vehicles for August 2002
3. Building Permits - August 2002
4. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meeting: August 1, 2002
5. Board of Architectural Review - Minutes of Meeting: August 12, 2002
6. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: August 13, 2002
7. State University at Albany - E-Government "pioneers" Report
8. Assemblyman Hoyt’s Request to NYS DOT for Extending Sidewalks at Parkway
9. Reality Café Attendance Report
10. Planning Board - Minutes of Meeting: August 12, 2002
11. Safety Committee - Minutes of Meeting: August 28, 2002
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Supervisor Monthly Report - August 2002
2. New York Coalition for Alternatives to Pesticides - Survey of Playground Equipment
3. U.S. EPA, ACC, NYSCA & LEPC - Plant Security Seminar
4. Department of State - Reimbursement for Code Enforcement Training
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewal: Dean & Ronald Duguay 2858 Staley Road - Keeping of One or More Riding Animals on 12.5 Acres
PLANNING BOARD
2. Special Use Permit - Michael Lawton 3588 Stony Point Road for Home Occupation
3. Revised Site Plan - Fuccillo Chevrolet 2000 Alvin Road
4. Exception to Subdivision Regulations - William & Gail Click 1070 Alt Boulevard
5. Final Plat Approval - Ransom Village Section 4 C (14 lots)
6. Site Plan Approval - B. Pariso Transport 2647 Whitehaven Road
7. Site Plan Approval - Tops Express 2130 Grand Island Boulevard
8. Invitrogen Site Plan Approval
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
9. P.I.P. for Ransom Village Section 4C (14 lots)
TOWN ATTORNEY
10. Local Law Intro # 3 of 2002 - Veterinary Fees for Impounded Animals
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL NONE
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Grand Island Business Assistance Center
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Edward H. Lenhard
Monsignor Richard A. Graeber
John E. "Jack" Thompson
Donald R. Crowell
PLANNING BOARD MEETING - AGENDA: SEPTEMBER 9, 2002 7:30 PM/CONFERENCE ROOM
APPROVE MINUTES: Planning Board Meeting – August 12, 2002
APPROVE VOUCHER: A. Ehde, Recording Secretary - $87.64
REFERRALS
1. Town Board MICHAEL A. LAWTON – 3588 STONY POINT RD. - SPECIAL USE PERMIT – HOME OCCUPATION
2. Town Board FUCILLO CHEVROLET – 2000 ALVIN RD. - REVISED SITE PLAN
3. Town Board WILLIAM AND GAIL CLICK – 1070 ALT BLVD. - EXCEPTION TO SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS
4. Town Board RANSOM VILLAGE – SECTION 4C (14 LOTS) - FINAL PLAT APPROVAL
5. Town Board B. PARISO TRANSPORT – 2647 WHITEHAVEN RD. - SITE PLAN APPROVAL
COMMUNICATIONS – OTHER OFFICIALS
1. Town Board MINUTES – August 5, 19, 2002
2. Board of Arch. MINUTES – July 8, 2002
Review
3. Supervisor McMahon NYS QUALITY COMMUNITIES, QUALITY COASTS CONFERENCE - OCTOBER 22, 23, 2002
4. Supervisor McMahon NY PLANNING FEDERATION PLANNING & ZONING CONFERENCE - SEPTEMBER 29 – OCTOBER 2
COMMUNICATIONS – OTHERS
None
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. Town Board TOPS EXPRESS – 2130 GRAND ISLAND BLVD. - SITE PLAN APPROVAL
2. Town Engineer REVISED DRAFT ZONING MAP – dated May 28, 2002
3. Town Engineer REVISED LWRP/NOVEMBER 2000
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2002 - 3:30 PM
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
REORGANIZATION - EXECUTIVE SESSION
Isle To Remember 9/11/01
By Joelle Logue
Sept. 3, 2002 . . .The Grand Island Ministerium will hold a commemorative service 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at Trinity Church. The hour long service will be in remembrance of the tragic events of one year ago when terrorists attacked the World Trade Center and the Pentagon killing thousands of Americans. Following that, the VFW will hold a candlelight vigil outside the Post on Grand Island Blvd. at 8:30 p.m. All are welcome and urged to attend.
In addition, Supervisor Peter McMahon announced Tuesday that the governor's office is encouraging gestures of unity consistent with observances taking place in New York City. Each school and religious institution is asked to toll their bells at 10:29 a.m. and for all to observe moments of silence at 8:46 a.m., 9:03 a.m., 9:59 a.m. and 10:29 a.m. Those times coincide with the impact of the planes on the twin towers and the towers collapsing. Citizens are also asked to turn their lights on when driving on that date.
No one spoke at public hearings Tuesday regarding final plat approval for Ransom Village - Section 4 C, and in response to Amy Drive residents' request to close the road for a block party September 7. Final plat approval was referred to the Planning Board for review and recommendation and the Amy Drive Road closing was granted subject to emergency vehicles gaining access if needed. The road will be closed from noon to dusk and a raindate has been set for September 8.
Special use renewals were granted to Gene Ryshkus to operate Grand Island Garden Center at 2120 Alvin Road and to John Ventry for keeping a horse at 3440 Stony Point Road.
A temporary Certificate of Occupancy was issued to Fuccillo Chevrolet at 2000 Alvin Road even though a revised site plan has been referred to the Planning Board for consideration September 9. The revised site plan leaves out several landscaping islands, concrete gutter detention basins and a top course of pavement for the entire parking lot that were part of the original site plan.
A public improvement permit for 70 ft. of sanitary sewer at 4961 East River Road was approved as were revised map covers for Park Place Subdivision, Phase 2 & 3. Revisions to Phase 2 involve the elimination of sublot 41 and the widening of the frontage of sublots 42, 43 and 44. Revisions to Phase 3 involve eliminating sublot 55 and the addition of some sanitary sewer easements.
In other business, the board:
Computer Recycling Date Planned
By Joelle Logue
Erie County will accept CPUs (hard drives), CRTS or monitors, keyboards, mice and printers for recycling Saturday, September 14, 2002 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Erie Community College's North Campus, 6205 Main St. in Williamsville. TVs, VCRs or stereos will be not be allowed and no commercial and industrial waste will be accepted.
Household Hazardous Waste Drop Off Day Set
By Joelle Logue
Erie County and the City of Buffalo will co-sponsor a Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off day Saturday, September 7 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Buffalo Color Corporation. Those bringing items should enter the site at Lee Street off Elk.
Allowable items for free disposal are oil based paints, pesticides, solvents, gasoline, used motor oil and antifreeze, lead acid and dry cell batteries, propane tanks and cylinders, auto tires and mercury. Also allowed are up to eight auto tires without rims per vehicle.
Commercial or industrial waste and latex paint will not be accepted. Oil base paints are limited to 10 gallons and solvents limited to two gallons.
Those needing additional information should call Erie County Household Hazardous Waste 24-hour Hotline at 858-6800 or visit the website at www.erie.gov
Oral Rabies Vaccine To Be Dropped Here
By Joelle Logue
Erie County has informed town officials that helicopters will be used to drop rabies vaccine along the shoreline, power lines and stream corridors on Grand Island September 10-12, 2002 in the fight to combat raccoon rabies. Personnel from Cornell University will supplement the airdrop by hand placing vaccine packets. The schedule may change if weather conditions delay the aircraft scheduled in other parts of Canada and the New England area.
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 16 Date: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: New Apostolic Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Robillard
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of August 19, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. FINAL PLAT APPROVAL - RANSOM VILLAGE SECTION 4C
2. APPLICATION FOR A BLOCK PARTY - AMY DRIVE
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Animal Control Statistics - January Thru June 2002 and July 2002
2. Erie County Health Department - Oral Rabies Vaccine Airdrop
3. County Department of Environment & Planning - Computer Recycling Day
4. Peace Bridge Expansion Project News
5. NYSDEC - Notice of Application by T. Schulte for Dock at 2550 East River Road
6. NYS Humane Association & Police Department/Investigating Animal Cruelty Workshop
7. County Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Day - September 7, 2002
8. NYS Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation-Grant Money for Veterans Park
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Observance of September 11, 2001
2. Resignation from Youth Board
3. Code Enforcement Officer
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewals:
A. Gene Ryshkus/Grand Island Garden Center 2120 Alvin Road
B. John Ventry 3440 Stony Point Road - One Horse on 2+ Acres
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
2. P.I.P. for Lettiere at 4961 East River Road
3. Revised Map Covers - Park Place Subdivision Phase 2 & 3
4. Site Plan Approval - Pariso Transport at 2647 Whitehaven
ENRICHMENT & REFERRAL CENTER
5. Hire Outreach Worker
BUILDING INSPECTOR DOUGLAS LEARMAN
6. Temporary Certificate of Occupancy - Fuccillo Chevrolet Alvin Road
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
STICKL CONSTRUCTION CO. INC.
1. Final Approval - Spicer Creek Townhouses Parcel "D"
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Grand Island Business Assistance Center
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
George E. Casey, Jr.
Seth Millard Walck
Town of Grand Island
Recreation Attendant - Full Time
The Town of Grand Island - Recreation & Parks Department is seeking qualified candidates to provide routine and/or unskilled work in connection with the conduct of activities and/or the care of physical facilities while in use. This is the beginning level for work in the field of recreation and involves the performance of routine tasks under direct supervision. This position will require evening, weekend and holiday availability in working with programs for adults and children.
Candidates will need a working knowledge of several types of sports and games, working knowledge of first aid, ability to comprehend, remember and follow detailed instructions; interest in recreation work; good physical condition. Experience: completion of high school, work experience and training. Starting pay is $10.80/hr. A letter of interest including qualifications to:
2255 Baseline Road
Grand Island, NY 14072
Pataki Announces $150,000 Grant For Vets Park
New York Governor George Pataki has announced a $150,000 Grant to the Town of Grand Island for Enhancements to Veterans Park. The grant represents almost two-thirds of the original amount requested by the Town. This is the second grant to Grand Island announced by the Governor in the past week. The earlier grant was a $480,000 grant for bicycle paths and picnic areas on the north end of the Island.
“We’re extremely fortunate to be awarded the two grants,” Town Supervisor Peter A. McMahon said on Wednesday, August 21, 2002. “Together they will allow us to significantly improve recreational opportunities which will serve all of our residents needs,” McMahon added.
Items under consideration for the Veterans Park Grant include construction of a softball field, a canoe launch on Woods Creek and access pathways from Veterans Park to Sandy Beach. Additional parking and landscaping are other possibilities.
“With these two grants from Governor Pataki, the whole community wins. It affords our Town the opportunity to turn some much needed projects and programs at Veterans Park into a reality,” Councilman Dan Robillard stated.
Mesmer Airstrip Cleared For Take Off
By Joelle Logue
Aug. 19, 2002 . . . Despite forceful arguments from Kristine Lavango and Michael Judd to ask the town board to reject the revised site plan for Robert Mesmer's airstrip at 2548 Love Road, the board approved the plan in a 4-1 vote Monday. Councilman Kevin Rustowicz continued his opposition of the project by stating "it was not in the best interests of the neighborhood."
The approval is the last major obstacle for Mesmer to construct a 1,470 ft. airstrip on 16-acres. Revisions to the site plan moved the airstrip 150 ft. southwest of the original plan and further from away from nearby homes.
According to town attorney Daniel Spitzer, the revised site plan meets every requirement in the statement of findings and all conditions of SEQRA. The FAA and DOT have signed off on the project and the airstrip is a permitted special use for the property.
Apparently, confusion surrounds the 20 to one clearance required by the FAA which residents against the airstrip insist is not being met. But Spitzer explained that the 20 to one isn't necessarily horizontal distance but fans out vertically as the plane takes off. Lavango said the town as lead agency on the project should reject the plan on buffer and clearance grounds, and feels the town is ignoring huge safety and property value issues. She threatened legal action from the residents. Judd called the airstrip "anti-environmental."
The town board first approved the revised plan as not having any negative environmental impacts and then approved the plan itself giving Mesmer the go ahead. New zoning, presently being considered to match the Master Plan adopted in 1995, would have given the town board legal means to oppose the project. The fact that an airstrip is not cohesive in a residential area would be reason enough to turn it down. Councilman Dick Crawford said under the present zoning code the board could not turn down the plan.
Local Law Bans Parking On Roads Surrounding High School
By Joelle Logue
Aug. 19, 2002 . . .Several people spoke in favor of parking restrictions near Grand Island Central High School on Ransom Road during a public hearing Monday night, but most felt they weren't restrictive enough. Keith Tripi called the parking a nuisance and a hazard not only during weekdays but weekends and evenings also. Frank Burkhart agreed, calling for a 24-hour ban during the week. He also requested the town draft a memo to the school board asking for increased parking areas.
Pat Garten and Mike Heftka, International and Continental Lane residents, emphasized that the safety of children came first over the convenience of student parking on roadways. Other residents near the high school complained about parking that took place on both sides of the road leaving only one lane for cars, garbage trucks and mailmen to maneuver. Students walking to school were denied shoulder access due to parking on both sides of Ransom Road. Parents of soccer players and visitors to the school for special events who parked along the side of the road were cited as problems along with student drivers.
Under the new law, which was the work of the Traffic Safety Advisory Board, school personnel and town board members, parking will be banned from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the following locations: Ransom Road - Sturbridge east for 1/2 mile; Ransom Road -Tracey Lane west for 1/2 mile; the entire length of Sturbridge, International, Continental, Brandywine, Park, Sandra, Sandpiper, Cobblestone, Surrey Run; Tracey Lane from Sandra for 1/4 mile south; Laurie Lane from Sandra for 1/4 mile south; all of Foxcroft and Windham.
Councilman Dick Crawford emphasized that the parking ban was a start but it would take a lot of monitoring and follow up for it to work. Councilwoman Mary Cooke asked residents to report any problems.
Approval For Fee Refunds Gets Teeth
By Joelle Logue
Aug. 19, 2002 . . . A resolution by Councilman Dan Robillard to return fees paid for zoning variances or special use applications that weren't necessary will become a new local law. The procedure will involve a voucher, signed by the Zoning or Planning Board Chair and processed through the normal audit system. First to benefit from the refunds will be Winkler Drive residents and Shirley Schultz of Fix Road for unnecessary zoning variances and Larry Chism of Bedell Road for an unnecessary special use application.
Pest Control Home Business Brings Controversy
By Joelle Logue
Aug. 19, 2002 . . .A public hearing regarding a special use application for Michael Lawton of 3588 Stony Point Road to store office documents and conduct monthly training for certification of licensed pest control employees brought much comment Monday. Immediate neighbors to the left and right of Lawton spoke in favor of the application citing him as a good neighbor, caring and well respected, but others objected not to the man himself but to his business, Trust Pest Control.
Donald Kline presented a petition of 18 names objecting to the special use permit and complaining about traffic and congestion on the street. He was also concerned about a storage building Lawton has built and whether it contained pesticides that would present a danger to the neighborhood. Questioned also was the frequency of the training sessions, suggesting that they were much more frequent than once a month. Angie Tollner agreed with him stating he shouldn't run a business in an A1 residential area and objected to the service vehicles advertising his business.
Rev. Kevin Backus vouched for Lawton citing him a good and generous churchgoer who offered his home to visiting ministers and using the outside building to store church items and materials. He asked the board to investigate all comments before deciding.
The application was referred to the Planning Board which will meet Monday, September 9, 2002 in Town Hall.
A less contentious public hearing concerned a request for street closure of Schutt Court for a Block Party Saturday, August 24 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. It was granted providing emergency vehicles would have access.
On recommendation from the Planning Board, the Town Board denied an exception to subdivision regulations to subdivide a lot for Mary and Michael Fifolt of 394 Ransom Road. Denial was based on the fact that a lot greater than five acres can not be subdivided until sewers are available. Also denied was a revised site plan to increase a recreational pond originally approved at .13 acres in size to .32 acres. The revised site plan was submitted after the fact and the Planning Board discussed establishing a time table for resubmitting the pond to a properly graded and seeded condition.
Twenty items need to be addressed before the Planning Board rules on a site plan for Tops Express at 2130 Grand Island Blvd. Proposed is the development of two acres of an eight acre parcel that is separate from where the supermarket is located. Tops will retain ownership. Planned is construction of a 44x24' building along with the gas pumps. Beverages and snacks will be sold. There is an exit for right hand turn only. Discussion surrounded the very large approach to the building and the ability to control access.
A special use for the keeping of horses by Robert Wakefield at 2413 Staley Road was approved as well as a waiver of subdivision regulations to split property at Pinto Equipment, 2409 Whitehaven Road so land can be sold to Randy Gleave for a landscaping business.
Final plat approval was granted to Majestic Woods Subdivision with the condition that the Conservation Easement be applicable for lots 28 through 51. Also approved was a site plan to construct a 1500 square foot addition to the existing transmitter at Fox 29 WUTV at 951 Whitehaven Road.
Referred to the Planning Board was a request by Fuccillo Chevrolet to omit the top surface of the asphalt parking area to the site plan for 2000 Alvin Road. A request to divide property at 1070 Alt Blvd. from William and Gail Glick for a single family dwelling was also referred to the Planning Board.
In other business, the board:
Town To Advertise For Jobs
By Joelle Logue
Aug. 19, 2002 . . .Upcoming retirements in the town's water, wastewater, highway and recreation departments have prompted the town to begin advertising for positions. Advertising will begin immediately and closing date for letter of interest and resumes will be September 13, 2002. Interviews will be held the weeks of September 23 and 30th allowing for replacements to be effective for the October 7, 2002 town board meeting.
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
MONDAY, AUGUST 26, 2002 - 9:00 AM
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
RE: HEADS OF BARGAINING UNITS - EXECUTIVE SESSION
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
TUESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2002 - 9:00 AM & 11 AM
TOWN HALL
RE: EMPLOYEES INFORMATION MEETING - EXECUTIVE SESSION
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA WORKSHOP #29- 6:30 P.M. – Monday, August 19, 2002
I MOTION FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION
A. Personnel Issue
B. Property Purchase/Sale
II AGENDA REVIEW
III NEW ITEMS
A. Employee Evaluation – Review Form
B. Peace Bridge Alternatives – Comment
C. Fee Responsibilities – Impounded Animals
D. 2002 Capital Budget
1. Highway
2. Recreation
E. Drainage Issue Garden Parkway
F. 2002 YTD Sales Tax Revenue – Update
G. Zoning Officer – Six Month Activity Report
H. General Code Publishers – Format Comments
I. Recreation/Athletic Field – Policy
J. Water Meter Policy – FYI
K. Pesticides - Town Property
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
A. Bonding – Mining/Ponds
B. Update Honor Roll – DeGlopper Monument
C. Drainage
1. Townwide
2. Neighborhood
D. Sign Ordinance
E. Plumbing Ordinance
F. Town Hall Signs
G. Holiday Decorations – Town Center
H. Mobile Eye Patrol
V ROUNDTABLE
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 15 Date: AUGUST 19, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: Bible Presbyterian Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Rustowicz
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of August 5, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. SPECIAL USE APPLICATION - MICHAEL A. LAWTON 3588 STONY POINT ROAD FOR HOME OCCUPATION
2. SCHUTT COURT RESIDENTS - REQUEST FOR STREET CLOSURE FOR BLOCK PARTY
3. PARKING RESTRICTIONS NEAR GRAND ISLAND CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Planning Board - Minutes of Meeting: July 8, 2002
2. Public Hearing/Erie County Industrial Development Agency - 2002 Invitrogen Corporation Project
3. Notice of Appeal re: Seneca Nation of Indians vs. New York State, et. al.
4. Golden Age Center - Usage of Facilities for July 2002
5. Building Permits - July 2002
6. Board of Architectural Review - Minutes of Meeting: July 8, 2002
7. Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) & DEIS
8. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meeting: July 11, 2002
9. State Board of Real Property Services - Final State Equalization Rate for 2002
10. Notice of Conditional Cross-Appeal - Seneca Nation vs. New York State, et. al.
11. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: July 9, 2002
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Appoint Permanent Golden Age Director - Barbara Gannon
2. Recreation Attendant - Advertise Position
3. Grand Island Business Assistance Center
COUNCILMAN CRAWFORD
4. Advertising for Future Hirings for the Town of Grand Island
COUNCILMAN ROBILLARD
5. Town Refund Policy on Variances and Permits
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewal: Robert Wakefield 2413 Staley Road - Keeping of One or More Riding Animals
PLANNING BOARD
2. Mary & Michael Fifolt 394 Ransom Road - Exception to Subdivision Regulations
3. Gary Halliwell 1925 Bedell Road - Revised Site Plan for Recreational Pond
4. Tops Express 2130 Grand Island Boulevard - Site Plan Approval
5. Pinto Equipment 2409 Whitehaven - Exception to Subdivision Regulations
6. Majestic Woods Subdivision - Final Plat Approval
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
7. HVAC Preventive Maintenance Contract for Library & Parks Building
8. Revised Site Plan - Fox 29 Station 951 Whitehaven Road
9. Final Plat Approval - Ransom Village Section 4C
10. Revised Site Plan - Fuccillo Chevrolet 2000 Alvin Road
11. Revised Site Plan - Mesmer Airstrip 2548 Love Road
TOWN ATTORNEY PETER GODFREY
12. Authorize Sale of Town Property
13. Resolution Reaffirm Authority of Deputy Town Clerk
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DLUGOKINSKI
14. Deaf Child Area Sign Request
TRAFFIC SAFETY ADVISORY BOARD
15. Speed Limit on Webb Road
GOLDEN AGE DIRECTOR BARBARA GANNON
16. Advertise Recreation Attendant Part-Time
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
WILLIAM & GAIL CLICK
1. Exception to Subdivision Regulations at 1070 Alt Boulevard
LAURIE YARNES
2. Request for Street Closure for Block Party
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Majestic Woods Subdivision - Final Plat Approval
2. P.I.P. - Majestic Woods Subdivision
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of: All Island Residents Who Have Passed Away This Year
Grant To Fund Bike and Pedestrian Path
Gov. George E. Pataki, during a late-afternoon news conference, Monday, August 12, 2002 in front of the DL&W terminal in Buffalo, announced a federal grant of $481,135 for the Town of Grand Island's bike and pedestrian path. The grant money will allow the town to connect the Island's bike path from Bedell Road to Buckhorn Park. The federal grant was among 18 totaling $9 million - and including several other bike paths - that Pataki earmarked for Western New York communities.
The money for various "revitalization and improvement" projects comes from two federal programs that let localities decide how the money is spent, said Pataki, who was joined by Rep. Thomas Reynolds, R-Clarence, State Sen. Byron Brown, D-Buffalo, and State Sen. George Maziarz, R-North Tonawanda. Grand Island Supervisor Peter A. McMahon was also in attendance.
GRAND ISLAND PLANNING BOARD MEETING
AGENDA - 7:30 PM – Monday, AUGUST 12, 2002 - TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
APPROVE MINUTES: Planning Board Meeting – July 8, 2002
APPROVE VOUCHER: A. Ehde, Recording Secretary - $76.69
1. Town Board - MARY & MICHAEL FIFOLT – 394 RANSOM RD. EXCEPTION TO SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS
2. Town Board -GARY HALLIWELL - 1925 BEDELL RD. REVISED SITE PLAN – RECREATIONAL POND
3. Town Board - TOPS EXPRESS – 2130 GRAND ISLAND BLVD. SITE PLAN APPROVAL
4. Town Board - PINTO EQUIPMENT – 2409 WHITEHAVEN RD. EXCEPTION TO SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS
1. Town Board MINUTES – June 11, 19, July 1, 15, 2002
2. Board of Arch. MINUTES – June 10, 2002
Review
3. Zoning Board of - MINUTES – June 6, July 11, 2002
Appeals
4. Conservation Comm. CONSERVATION EASEMENT DRAFT FOR MAJESTIC WOODS
None
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. Town Board - MAJESTIC WOODS SUBDIVISION -FINAL PLAT APPROVAL
2. Town Engineer - REVISED DRAFT ZONING MAP – dated May 28, 2002
3. Town Engineer - REVISED LWRP/NOVEMBER 2000
Economic Development Committee Pitches New Business Deal
By Joelle Logue
Aug. 5, 2002 . . The incubator project, formerly planned for town leased property on Whitehaven Road (formerly Rockwood Brothers) and advocated by the Supervisor's Economic Development Committee, has been replaced with a new proposal that was described to town board members during Monday's workshop session. Economic Development Committee Chair Mike Heftka, former councilman, introduced the new plan with the help of Ted Bates, Mary Sommer, Jerry Doane and Hank Carroll.
Modifications to the original proposal now eliminate the incubation and micro lending phase but will keep the business technical assistance aspect with the new location being IsleChem (formerly Occidental Chemical) on Long Road. According to Heftka and Bates, Dr. Charles Rader of IsleChem has generously offered to donate office space and equipment and permit use of training rooms, a conference center, computers and local phone service. Heftka called it a wonderful opportunity and emphasized that there would be no tax burden to the town. Bates went on to assure the board that the Economic Committee would not act as leasing agents for IsleChem. Those negotiations would be done strictly between businesses and Dr. Rader.
With the shift in emphasis, there are now new goals. The first is "to become a catalyst for the economic activity of the town resulting in an increase to the town's tax base through the development of commercial and mixed use." The second is "to improve the image and appearance of the town through the utilization and development of retail, service and light industrial business and provide technical assistance to all entrepreneurs." The third goal is to maintain a good working relationship with public and private agencies, and the fourth is to assemble and maintain a database of available information as requested by site selectors, business owners or developers regarding resources and demographics.
Instead of developing its own micro lending program, businesses will be referred to the Erie County Industrial Development Agency (ECIDA) which was funded in 2001 to develop a micro loan program.
Among the initiatives described for 2002-2003 were to develop a marketing brochure, participate in no less than two trade shows, offer quarterly workshops, develop a data base of information, hold monthly open houses, and offer space for entities that offer technical assistance such as Internal Revenue Service, NYS Small Business Development Center and US Small Business Administration.
In order to get things rolling, the Committee asked the town board for two resolutions: one signing a lease with IsleChem and another establishing a budget of $1,985 for the remainder of 2002 to cover stationery, postage, a workshop, business cards, an open house, long distance phone calls and advertising. That budget would be funded with money already on hand donated by M&T for business promotion and incentive. A budget of $9,955 is requested for 2003. Supervisor Peter McMahon said that $10,000 has been made available from Assemblyman Sam Hoyt.
Councilwoman Mary Cooke asked if there would be Chamber of Commerce involvement. Although Chamber Vice President Gary Astridge serves on the Economic Committee he was not in attendance and no one was certain that the Chamber was aware of the new plan. Mike Heftka indicated that a formal presentation would be made to the Chamber.
The town board is taking the plan under advisement
Public Hearing Set On School Parking Restrictions
By Joelle Logue
Aug. 5, 2002 . . .Following comments by former Councilman Mike Heftka at Monday's Town Board meeting, the board set a public hearing for Monday, August 19, 2002 at 8 p.m. to hear comments regarding parking restrictions near Grand Island High School located on Ransom Road. Heftka emphasized that discussion should include side street parking as well and referred to the fact there had been a bus accident on International Lane. Members of the Traffic Safety Advisory Board and representatives from the school district have met concerning the student parking issue.
A public hearing was also set for Monday, August 19 at 8 p.m. regarding a request to close Schutt Court on August 24, 2002 for a block party from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and another hearing to consider a special use application for a home occupation ( the storing of office documents and the conducting of a monthly training course for certification of state mandated licensing) by Michael Lawton at 3588 Stony Point Road.
The town board granted final plat approval for Robert Weaver's Island Meadows Subdivision - Part 2 following a public hearing at which no one commented.
Referred to the Planning Board and Traffic Safety Advisory Board was site plan approval for the Wilson Farms store and gas station proposed for Ransom Road by Tops Express. Joan Arki speaking for 1000 concerned citizens against the project urged the board to limit the project to the store only. In recommending the "no gas" alternative she said it would eliminate odors, the risk of an accident or spill, the wear and tear on roadways, the unsightly gas canopies and lights, plus the negative impact on property values. It would also reduce noise from trucks delivering the gas. She further urged the town to insure the health, safety and quality of life for its citizens when reviewing the project. Dolly D'Orazio added that "there are five gas stations between Burger King and McDonalds on Grand Island Blvd." and asked the question, "Do we really need another gas station on Grand Island?"
Also referred to the Planning Board was a revised site plan for a recreational pond at 1925 Bedell Road which would more than double the size requested originally, public improvements for Park Place Subdivision - Phase 3 (water main, fire hydrant, street with curbs, sanitary sewer, storm sewer), and an exception to subdivision request for Pinto Equipment at 2409 Whitehaven Road.
In other business, the board:
Public Hearing Set On School Parking Restrictions
By Joelle Logue
Aug. 5, 2002 . . .Following comments by former Councilman Mike Heftka at Monday's Town Board meeting, the board set a public hearing for Monday, August 19, 2002 at 8 p.m. to hear comments regarding parking restrictions near Grand Island High School located on Ransom Road. Heftka emphasized that discussion should include side street parking as well and referred to the fact there had been a bus accident on International Lane. Members of the Traffic Safety Advisory Board and representatives from the school district have met concerning the student parking issue.
A public hearing was also set for Monday, August 19 at 8 p.m. regarding a request to close Schutt Court on August 24, 2002 for a block party from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and another hearing to consider a special use application for a home occupation ( the storing of office documents and the conducting of a monthly training course for certification of state mandated licensing) by Michael Lawton at 3588 Stony Point Road.
The town board granted final plat approval for Robert Weaver's Island Meadows Subdivision - Part 2 following a public hearing at which no one commented.
Referred to the Planning Board and Traffic Safety Advisory Board was site plan approval for the Wilson Farms store and gas station proposed for Ransom Road by Tops Express. Joan Arki speaking for 1000 concerned citizens against the project urged the board to limit the project to the store only. In recommending the "no gas" alternative she said it would eliminate odors, the risk of an accident or spill, the wear and tear on roadways, the unsightly gas canopies and lights, plus the negative impact on property values. It would also reduce noise from trucks delivering the gas. She further urged the town to insure the health, safety and quality of life for its citizens when reviewing the project. Dolly D'Orazio added that "there are five gas stations between Burger King and McDonalds on Grand Island Blvd." and asked the question, "Do we really need another gas station on Grand Island?"
Also referred to the Planning Board was a revised site plan for a recreational pond at 1925 Bedell Road which would more than double the size requested originally, public improvements for Park Place Subdivision - Phase 3 (water main, fire hydrant, street with curbs, sanitary sewer, storm sewer), and an exception to subdivision request for Pinto Equipment at 2409 Whitehaven Road.
In other business, the board:
Supervisor Invited To Grand Island, Nebraska Parade
Mayor Ken Gnadt is shown in the Island's July 4th 2002 parade.
Barbi Lare photo
Supervisor Peter A. McMahon, and his wife, Mary, have been invited by the Mayor of Grand Island,Nebraska to ride in the 61st Harvest of Harmony Parade on October 5, 2002. Following Mayor Ken Gnadt's visit to Grand Island for the Sesquicentennial/Independence Day parade, he wrote in a letter to the supervisor, that the Supervisor, his family and the community made a great and lasting impression on "Grand Island West." Mayor Gnadt explained to Supervisor McMahon that his title would have to change to mayor, "as our folks would not understand Supervisor, as that is the title of our Hall County elected officials."
Supervisor McMahon will accept the invitation.
National Airborne Day Proclaimed
Barbi Lare Photo
By Joelle Logue
Accepting a proclamation declaring August 16, 2002 National Airborne Day at Monday's Town Board meeting was Joe Synakowski representing the 82nd Airborne and Charles N. DeGlopper VFW Post 9249. Citing the 82nd Airborne's early parachute training program and the heroism of Pfc. Charles N. DeGlopper, Congressional Medal of Honor awardee, who died serving as a member of Company "C" First Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment at LaFiere, France June 9, 1944, the proclamation urges citizens to observe and commemorate the day.
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA WORKSHOP #28- 6:30 P.M. – Monday, August 5, 2002
I UPDATE ON SMALL BUSINESS INCUBATOR
II AGENDA REVIEW
III NEW ITEMS
A. General Code Publishers
B. Vacancy in Recreation Department
C. Peace Bridge – Alternatives
D. 2002 Sales Tax Revenue
E. Zoning Officer – Six Month Activity Report
F. Computer Security
G. Water Meter Policy
H. Fees for Impounded Animals
I. Policy for Athletic Field Use
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
A. Highway Department – 2002 Capital Budget (Highway Committee)
B. Bonding for Mining/Ponds (Hodgson Russ)
C. Parking near Grand Island High School (Traffic Safety)
D. Update Honor Roll – DeGlopper Park (McMahon)
E. Drainage (Town Board)
1. Stormwater Plan
2. Neighborhood
F. Sign Ordinance (Town Board)
G. Revised Plumbing Ordinance
V ROUNDTABLE
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 14 Date: AUGUST 5, 2002
INVOCATION: St. Timothy Lutheran Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Crawford
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
PROCLAMATION: NATIONAL AIRBORNE DAY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of July 15, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. FINAL PLAT APPROVAL - ISLAND MEADOWS SUBDIVISION PART 2
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Erie County Department of Environment & Planning-Quarterly Report 4/01-6/30/02
2. Erie County’s 2002-2003 Business Assistance Directory
3. Erie County Personnel Department- Notice of Public Hearing for Amended Appendices of Classified Civil Service
4. Niagara Mohawk and National Grid Merger
5. NY Department of State - Revision of Local Waterfront Revitalization Program
6. Niagara Mohawk’s 2002 Community Renaissance Award Program
7. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meeting: June 6,2002
8. Library Board of Trustees - 2001 Annual Report & Minutes of Meeting: April 13, 2002
9. Electric Examining Board - Minutes of Meeting: July 15, 2002
10. Erie County - Rabies Vaccine Air-Drop Meeting
11. NYSDOT - Amended Highway Resurfacing Schedule
12. Notice of Appeal - Seneca Nation of Indians; et al vs. State of New York et al
13. Erie County Department of Environment & Planning-Proposed Amendment to the Action Plan Components of the Five-Year Consolidated Community Development Block Grant
14. NYS Environmental Facilities Corporation-Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements Compliance with Clean Water State Revolving Fund Regulations
15. Golden Age Center - Usage of Vehicles for July 2002
16. Restamp Map Cover for Fairway Greens of River Oaks Phase Cluster No. 6
17. Buffalo Launch Club "Annual Boat Show" of Niagara Frontier Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society Inc.
COMMUNICATIONS – TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Monthly Report - July 2002
2. Set Public Hearing - Parking Restrictions Near Grand Island Central High School
3. Appoint Affirmative Action Officer
4. Erie-Niagara Regional Partnership Tourism & Culture Subcommittee Request
5. Hire Cook at Golden Age Center
COUNCILMAN RUSTOWICZ
11. Appointment to Youth Advisory Board
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewals:
A. Mary Ann Fairbairn 2136 Fix Road - Customary Home Occupation
B. Zygmunt Bieniulis 3380 Staley Road - Barn Housing Four Horses
C. Mark Zarbo 2665 Grand Island Boulevard-Hotel/Motel/Restaurant/Business
2. Special Use Application Withdrawal - Larry Chism 1504 Bedell Road
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DLUGOKINSKI
3. Eastern Winter Road Maintenance Symposium & Equipment Expo
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
4. P.I.P. Park Place Subdivision Phase III
5. Revised Site Plan -1925 Bedell Road for Recreational Pond
6. Site Plan Approval - TOPS Express 2130 Grand Island Boulevard
7. Renewal HVAC Preventive Maintenance Contract - Grand Island Town Hall
8. Revised Site Plan - American Pharmaceutical Partners Inc. 3159 Staley Road
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
STICKL CONSTRUCTION CO. INC.
1. Final Approval - Spicer Creek Townhouses Parcel "E"
RICHARD O. ROBINSON, P.C.
2. Exception to Subdivision Regulations - Pinto Equipment 2409 Whitehaven Road
BRANDON W. PIASECKI, Esq.
3. Exception to Subdivision Regulations - Gleave for Vacant Lot on Bedell Road
MICHAEL A.LAWTON
4. Special Use Application - 3588 Stony Point Road for Home Occupation
SCHUTT COURT RESIDENTS
5. Request for Street Closure for Block Party
JOHN W. THOMPSON
6. Resignation
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Majestic Woods Subdivision - Final Plat Approval
2. P.I.P. - Majestic Woods Subdivision
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Frank Butcher
Gloria M. (Grant) Kalman
Concetta Tripi
James A. Williams
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14, 2002 - 7:00 PM
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
RE: PROPOSED ZONING CODE
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
(EXECUTIVE SESSION)
TUESDAY, JULY 30, 2002 - 8:30 AM
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
RE: TOWN OF GRAND ISLAND GOVERNMENT REORGANIZATION/POSSIBLE REORGANIZATION OF CERTAIN DEPARTMENTS OF TOWN GOVERNMENT
Grand
Island's Newest Police Car
Barbi Lare photo
Town officials were on hand for the introduction of a new police car. Officer Lou Tufallaro is behind the wheel with Town Council members Mary
Cooke and Richard Crawford on the left and Supervisor Peter McMahon on the
right. The new car will replace an older model to be phased out.
Town Board Meeting
Click
Town Board Meeting for "Buffalo News" report.
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP - 7:00 P.M. – Monday, JULY 29, 2002
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM - RE: ZONING
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA WORKSHOP #23- 6:30 P.M. – Monday, July 15, 2002
I MEET WITH BUILDING INSPECTOR REGARDING STAFFING
II AGENDA REVIEW
III NEW ITEMS
A. Reg Schopp – Regarding Youth Board
B. Sidewalk District – Town Center
C. Peach Bridge Alternatives – Meeting July 18, 2002 – 9:00 a.m.
D. Bikepath Plan – July 17, 2002 – 9:00 a.m.
E. Computer Security
F. Employee Evaluation Forms
G. Small Business Incubator – Update
H. Water Meter Policy
I. Zoning – Workshop for Issues
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
A. Highway Department – 2002 Capital Budget (Highway Committee)
B. Bonding for Mining/Ponds (Hodgson Russ)
C. Parking near Grand Island High School (Traffic Safety)
D. Small Business Incubator ( Economic Development)
E. Update Honor Roll – DeGlopper Park (McMahon)
F. Drainage (Town Board)
1. Stormwater Plan
2. Neighborhood
G. Sign Ordinance (Town Board)
H. Revised Plumbing Ordinance
V ROUNDTABLE
Marion "Long" Young Day on Grand
Island
Barbi Lare photo
Town Supervisor Peter McMahon declared Sunday as Marion Young Day on Grand
Island, recognizing Island native Marion Long Young on her 95th birthday. Mrs. Young, a decendant of the Joachim Long family and former teacher in, not only Sidway and Kaegebein schools, but also Grand Island's one-room schools,
returned to Grand Island from her Florida home, to celebrate with her
nieces, Sharon Nichols and Barbara Zafuto and many of her local friends.
The party was at the Nichols home in Ferry Village complete with candled
birthday cake and all the extras for the party.
Town Board Meeting
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Town Board Meeting
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 13 Date: JULY 15, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: Whitehaven Road Baptist Church
PLEDGE: Councilwoman Cooke
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of July 1, 2002
Special Public Hearing/Zoning June 11, 2002
Special Public hearing/Zoning June 19, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. FINAL PLAT APPROVAL - MAJESTIC WOODS SUBDIVISION - PART I
2. FINAL PLAT APPROVAL - PARK PLACE SUBDIVISION PHASE III
3. LOCAL LAW INTRO #1 of 2002 - NYS RETIREMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM
CONSENT AGENDA
1. State Board of Real Property Services-Tentative State Equalization Rate for 2002 Roll
2. Building Permits - June 2002
3. County Health Department Re: Dunlop Building
4. Adelphia Cable - Commitment to Local Service Letters
5. Congratulatory Letter to Oakland California Celebrating Sesquicentennial Year
6. Board of Architectural Review - Minutes of Meeting: June 10, 2002
7. Golden Age Center - Usage of Vehicles & Facilities: June 2002
8. Planning Board - Minutes of Meeting: June 10, 2002
9. Animal Control Statistics for May & June 2002
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Supervisor’s Monthly Report - June 2002
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Consolidation of Election Districts for Primary Day
2. Records Management Improvement Fund - Grant Submission Denied
3. Special Use Renewals:
A. Donald & Andrea Magro-Nursery & Day Care Center at 2880 Grand Island Blvd.
B. National Fuel Gas-Natural Gas Regulator at 1589 Stony Point Road
PLANNING BOARD
4. Majestic Woods Subdivision - Final Plat Approval
5. Hugill Storage 2761 Bedell Site Plan for Additional Storage Buildings
6. Park Place Subdivision Phase III - Final Plat Approval
7. Woods Creek Daycare Center 1353 Ransom Road - Revised Site Plan
8. Robert Schooping 2600 Grand Island Blvd.-Rezoning B-1 to B-2 for Boat Sales
9. Hot To Go 2600 Grand Island Blvd. Site Plan Approval
10. Daniel Stedman 1475 Cox Road - Site Plan Approval for Boat Storage Building
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
11. Authorize Financial Advisory Services Agreement
12. Site Plan Approval at 4058 East River Road for Shoreline Stabilization
13. P.I.P. for Majestic Woods Subdivision Phase I (25 lots)
TOWN ENGINEER & HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT
14. Award Bid - Bituminous Resurfacing of Various Town Roads
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DLUGOKINSKI
15. Award Bid for One New Heavy Duty Cab & Chassis
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
LARRY CHISM
1. Special Use Application for 1504 Bedell Road to Allow "Handyman Business"
MARY & MICHAEL FIFOLT
2. Exception to Subdivision Regulations at 394 Ransom Road
CHARLES & MARIE GALANTE
3. Acknowledgement of Building, Engineering, Water & Highway Departments
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Edna (Kohl) Braddell
Brooke Madison Dynko
Suzanne S. Dawson
Mae (Webb) Eastman
Marie Stimac
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA WORKSHOP #22 - 6:30 P.M. – Monday, July 1, 2002
II NEW ITEMS (Note) Schedule Additional Workshop
A. NYS Retirement Incentive
B. Employee Evaluation (Forms)
C. Employee Appreciation
D. Water Meter Policy
E. Economic Development Update
F. Minutes Workshop Agenda #21 – 6-17-02
III CONTINUING ITEMS
A. Highway Department – 2002 Capital Budget (Highway Committee)
B. Bonding for Mining/Ponds (Hodgson Russ)
C. Parking near Grand Island High School (Traffic Safety)
D. Small Business Incubator (Economic Development)
E. Update Honor Roll – DeGlopper Park (McMahon)
F. Drainage (Town Board)
1. Stormwater Plan
2. Neighborhood
G. Sign Ordinance (Town Board)
H. Revised Plumbing Ordinance
IV ROUNDTABLE
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 12 Date: JULY 1, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: Trinity United Methodist Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Robillard
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of June 17, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M. NONE
CONSENT AGENDA
1. County of Erie - Transmittal of Final Roll & Schedule for 2002 School Taxes
2. Safety Committee - Minutes of Meeting: May 29, 2002
3. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: May 14, 2002
4. Local Water Revitalization Program Implementation
5. Veterans Park Enhancement Project
6. Public Service Commission - Adopting Amendments to Rules and Regulations for the Protection of Underground Facilities
7. Adelphia Cable - Franchise Fee Payments & Rate Increase Notification
8. Youth Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: May 2, 2002
9. NYSDEC - Renewal of Mining Permit at 2000 Baseline Road
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Appoint Grand Island Police Officer
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewal: Sandy Beach Yacht Club 1851 Winter Road - Parking Lot
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
2. Final Plat Approval - Majestic Woods Subdivision
3. Site Plan Approval - Hugill Storage 2761 Bedell Road - Additional Storage Buildings
4. Final Plat Approval - Park Place Subdivision Phase 3
5. Revised Site Plan - Woodscreek Daycare Center 1353 Ransom Road
6. Site Plan Approval 1475 Cox Road - Boat Storage Building
7. Site Plan Approval 2600 Grand Island Boulevard - Hot to Go
TOWN ENGINEER & HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT
8. Award Bid - Alt Boulevard Resurfacing
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DLUGOKINSKI
9. Handicapped Child Sign
SPECIAL DISTRICTS COMMITTEE
10. Petition for Sanitary Sewer District Extension 4960 East River Road
RECREATION DIRECTOR LINDA TUFILLARO
11. Summer Hire
TRAFFIC SAFETY ADVISORY BOARD
12. Traffic Recommendations for Various Locations
BOARD OF ETHICS
13. Rules, Regulations & Procedures for Town of Grand Island Board of Ethics
ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER
14. Veterinary Costs
CONSERVATION COMMISSION
15. Town Pesticide Use
REALITY CAFÉ
16. Change of Age Limit for Attendance
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
CAMPBELL, ROSSI & PARLATO, LLP
1. Request to Purchase Town Land at End of Colony Road for Dowd 1571 Bronson Road
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Enrichment & Referral Center - Hire Outreach Worker
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Darrell “Newbaby” Covert
Bulletin! Town Clerk Tax Payment Notice
Town Clerk Nancy Samrany reminds taxpayers that July 1, 2002 is the last day town/county tax payments may be made to the town clerk's office. No personal checks will be accepted for payment after June 15, 2002. Payments made after July 1 must be sent to the county. If you have any questions, please call the clerk's office at 773-9600, EXT 622.
Concerns Aired At Rezoning Hearing
By Sue Hillock
The Town Board held the second of two public hearings Wednesday June 19, 2002 at Kaegebein School, on a proposed new zoning code that will result in changes to approximately 2,000 properties. The new code is an attempt to update the town’s current zoning and bring it into compliance with the 1995 Comprehensive Master Plan. Individual property owners will not be notified but can view the proposed changes at the town hall. A copy of the proposed new code and zoning map may be purchased from the town clerk for $21. Supervisor Peter McMahon said comments from the two hearings will be reviewed and changes publicized in an Islandwide Dispatch in August. He expects to have a final public hearing in September.
Issues raised at the first public hearing included the town center zoning, specifically north of Webb Road, the definition of a Hamlet, the definition and provisions for the Enhanced Environmental Development District with a map designating the boundaries, and a list of non-conforming legal uses.
David Birt of Ferry Village told the board that the architectural guidelines for Ferry Village were unnecessary and asked that they eliminate the single-family attached waterfront zoning proposed at Ferry and East River Roads.
Webb Road residents described their neighborhood as being a pocket neighborhood with no sewers, curbs, or streetlights. They asked that the board look at the ramifications of the proposed rezoning that they felt would negatively affect their properties. Colleen Huff added that people use Webb Road to get from Grand Island Blvd. to Baseline Road and they didn’t want additional traffic.
Frank Burkhart and Joan Argy spoke about the project currently under review for the Ransom and Stony Point area. They asked that performance standards be set with consideration given to buffer zones and signage. They questioned the board's action in changing the zoning from Hamlet as defined in the Master Plan to business use. McMahon said that they were advised by the town attorney not to make any changes since the project was underway. Argy noted that courts have upheld changes in zoning if it was in compliance with a Master Plan.
Betty and Leo Hopkins presented a petition from Ransom Road and East River residents opposing the rezoning of the area property from R-1A to R-1B. Hopkins cited a long-standing history of agricultural uses that has enhanced the rural quality of the area and would not be allowed in the new proposed zoning. She asked that further clarification be given on the definition of a nursery, as it was uncertain as to the effect the proposed zoning would have on their nursery business. She added that the creation of over 23 different districts would have potential environmental and community impacts and the public should be informed of this.
Ron Livingston questioned why neighborhood businesses like the Beach House, Village Inn, and Phillips Garage were being rezoned and would now fall into the non-conforming use category. He asked if it was the first step in eliminating these long time businesses that would now be at the mercy of a zoning board should they wish to improve their property.
Stacy Kreis encouraged the board to move forward with the rezoning, which is based on information gathered over a ten-year period. She said the result is a balance of green areas and business
. Linda Kutzbach asked that the board be fair to business and stick with a plan. She said the town needed "some balance and common sense as we already have more green space than any other town."
Ed Anderson of East River criticized the board for not publicizing the rezoning which is expected to affect 2,000 properties.
McMahon said that written comments regarding the proposed changes are welcome.
Highway Dept. To Get New Plow
By Joelle Logue
The town board authorized the highway department to advertise for bids on a new 2003 heavy duty plow truck and chassis over the objection of Councilman Kevin Rustowicz who felt it was an inappropriate purchase since it wasn't budgeted. He called for a plan of action for the future and better budget planning such as starting an equipment fund. Rustowicz felt the FEMA money received from the Christmas snow storm was money needed to reimburse the town for overtime, but Dick Crawford said the town had a 20 percent cushion for the overtime costs. Mary Cooke agreed that using fund balances to answer the need of the highway department was indeed appropriate and that the board at budget time was being overly cautious in view of September 11th events.
The highway department also got approval to advertise for bids on the 2002 resurfacing program. Bids will be open July 10 at 10 a.m. The road striping was awarded to Atlantic Paving at a cost of $195 per mile for double yellow center lines and $137 per mile for white edge lines.
Approval was given for a Public Improvement Permit for construction of the pavement, storm drainage, waterline and sanitary sewer to serve 15 lots in Park Place Subdivision. Contractor on the job is Sam Long's Landscaping.
Only the owner of 2600 Grand Island Blvd., R. Schooping, spoke at a public hearing requesting rezoning of the property from B-1 to B-2 for boat sales and related equipment sales. The request was referred to the Planning Board for review and recommendation. A second public hearing was held on establishing a lighting district for Hidden Oaks Subdivision on Fix Road. No one spoke and the board voted to establish the district.
The town agreed to help fund a sign for the town commons to promote special events and for use by all Island non-profits to help publicize their special happenings. The Connections program is providing $1000 of the estimated $3200 cost while $1000 will come out of the supervisor's travel budget and another $1000 will come from the town board's travel budget.
In other business, the board:
Town Accepts Airstrip Site Plan, Wilson Farms SDEIS
By Joelle Logue
Two controversial projects got a step closer to reality Monday when the town board in 4-1 votes (Councilman Kevin Rustowicz opposing) approved the Mesmer airstrip site plan and accepted the Wilson Farms Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement (SDEIS).
The Planning Board recommended approval of the airstrip subject to an opinion by the DOT as to whether a pond on the property would constitute a hazard because of the possibility of attracting geese and other birds. Planners also asked the DOT to review the actual length of the runway. The town board reported the DOT found the pond acceptable and that a discrepancy in the length of the runway was corrected and a new site plan submitted. The approval is also subject to Mesmer's obtaining a special use permit. Rustowicz voiced inherent problems with the fact that the airstrip would affect property values, his was the only dissenting vote.
In the Parkland Plaza/Wilson Farms case, Supervisor Peter McMahon said the remaining documents on traffic impact and the transportation of fuel had been provided to complete the SDEIS. Upon the acceptance, McMahon said the public comment period would take place from June 26 to July 26. Rustowicz' motion for a public hearing instead of the public comment period failed for the lack of a second. Councilwoman Mary Cooke said to hold a public hearing would not be prudent. "We have all the information. We know the issues here."
Opposition to both projects was voiced by several residents at the beginning of the meeting. Krisitne Lavango, upset over the airstrip, said she was uncomfortable with the variances and said she wanted the board to table approval of the airstrip which she deems inappropriate for 2548 Love Road. She suggested it would be responsible of the board to slow down and review the inconsistencies in the site plan. Chuck Goris agreed and said the site plan should be resubmitted with the correct information.
Voicing concern over the Wilson Farms SDEIS, Jennifer Dzielski said the document was still not adequate, asserting that not all impacts and mitigations were included. She insisted she was not there to delay the process but to protect the legal rights of citizens. spoke at length about tanker accidents and the lack of federal regulations regarding tankers. She cited the fact there have been 95 tanker accidents over the last five years and described several of them.
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
RE: CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS - (EXECUTIVE SESSION)
Date WEDNESDAY, JULY 10, 2002 - 7:00 P.M.
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
Legality of Town Board Meeting Questioned
The legality of a heated Town Board meeting on Wednesday, June 12, 2002 has been questioned. For a complete story, click "Buffalo News."
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA - WORKSHOP #21 Date: 6:30 P.M. – Monday, June 17, 2002
I MOTION FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION
A. Legal advice regarding DOS Letter
II AGENDA REVIEW
A. Library Board Appointment
III NEW ITEMS
A. NYS Retirement Incentive
B. Renewal of BANS
C. Police Patrols – Special Events
1. Grand Island High School
2. Sesquicentennial
D. Residents for Responsible Government – Letter
E. Sen. Byron Brown Member Items
F. Water Meter Policy
G. Employee Evaluation Form
H. Zoning Maps – Publish?
I. Employee Appreciation - 7/2/02
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
A. Highway Department Capital Budget – Highway Committee
B. Bonding for Mining (P.Godfrey)
C. Parking Near High School (Traffic Safety)
D. Small Business Incubator (Economic Development)
E. Pesticide Use Town Property (Conservation Commission)
F. Update Honor Roll – DeGlopper Park
G. Drainage issues
1. Stormwater
2. Town Wide
3. Neighborhood
H. Sign Ordinance
1. Town Hall Signs
V ROUNDTABLE
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 11 Date: June17, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: St. Martin-In-The-Fields-Episcopal Church
PLEDGE: Rustowicz
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of June 3, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. REZONING - R. SCHOOPING 2600 GRAND ISLAND BOULEVARD B-1 TO B-2 FOR BOAT SALES AND RELATED EQUIPMENT SALES
2. LIGHTING DISTRICT #35 HIDDEN OAKS SUBDIVISION
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Communication Workers of America CWA - Information on Adelphia Anti-Union Stance
2. US Department of the Interior - Annual Open House of U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services
3. Golden Age Center - Usage of Vehicles and Facilities for May 2002
4. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meetings: May 2 & June 6, 2002
5. Building Permits - May 2002
6. Board of Architectural Review - Minutes of Meeting: May 13, 2002
7. Planning Board - Minutes of Meeting: May 13, 2002
8. City of Buffalo - Designation of "Lead Agent" for Border Crossing Expansion Project
9. Erie County Payroll, Human Resources, Finance and Procurement
10. Perma Achievement Award for Town of Grand Island
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Supervisor’s Monthly Report - May 2002
2. Legislator Swanick - Concern of Property at 3312 Love Road
3. GIFTS Memorandum of Understanding
4. NYSDEC Response re Love Road Air Field
5. Appoint Supervising Accountant
6. July 4th Fireworks
7. CTC Communications Contract
COUNCILWOMAN COOKE
8. CMAQ Funding
COUNCILMAN CRAWFORD
9. Highway Department New 2003 Heavy Duty Plow Truck and Chassis
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewals:
A. Patricia Burg 3030 Stony Point Road - Stable Horses (up to two (2) equine
B. Laura & Steven Gorcheck 5302 East River Road - Equine Animal one (1) Horse
2. Part-time Clerk
PLANNING BOARD
3. Park Place Subdivision Phase 2 Harvey Road - Final Plat Approval
4. Mesmer Air Strip 2548 Love Road - Site Plan Approval
5. Town Hall Terrace - Site Plan Approval for Eighteen New Townhouse Apartments
6. Majestic Woods Subdivision - Conditional Approval
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
7. P.I.P. Approval - Park Place Subdivision
ASSISTANT TOWN ENGINEER & HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT
8. 2002 Highway Resurfacing Program
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DLUGOKINSKI
9. Road Striping
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
CELLINO & BARNES
1. Notice of Claim Patricia Gaiser v. Town of Grand Island Highway Department
G. GRANSON GEIS
2. Approve Map Cover - Fairway Greens Phase II Cluster 6
SESQUICENTENNIAL CRAFT SHOW COMMITTEE
3. Request for Road Closure (Whitehaven between Baseline & Grand Island Boulevard)
DELILAH A. D’ORAZIO
4. Resignation from Youth Advisory Board
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Town Commons Sign Proposal
2. Request to Appoint Library Trustee
3. Enrichment & Referral - Hire Outreach Worker and Recreation Attendant Part-time
4. SDEIS Parkland Plaza/Wilson Farms
5. Benderson v. Town of Grand Island Tax Settlement
6. Resolution Supporting US Rt 19 as "Scenic Byway"
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
All Island Residents who have passed away this year
Mesmer's Air Strip A Step Closer To Reality
Planning Board members met Monday, June 10, 2002 and recommended approval of a site plan for a proposed airstrip at his Love Road property. For a complete story, click "Buffalo News."
Webb Road Neighbors Object To Area Zoning
Most Webb Road residents were in attendance at the first of two public hearings regarding the town's zoning code. Neighbors attending the Tuesday, June 11, 2002 hearing in Huth Road School protested the proposed changes to the zoning code which, they say, would drastically change the rural character of the Webb Road area. The second hearing is set for Wednesday, June 19 from 7-9:30 p.m. at Kaegebein School. For a complete story, click "Buffalo News."
GRAND ISLAND PLANNING BOARD MEETING
AGENDA - 7:30 PM – Monday, JUNE 10, 2002 - TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
APPROVE MINUTES: Planning Board Meeting – May 13, 2002
APPROVE VOUCHER: A. Ehde, Recording Secretary - $43.82 and 49.30
2. Town Board- MESMER AIR STRIP – 2548 LOVE RD. - SITE PLAN APPROVAL
3. Town Board - TOWN HALL TERRACE - SITE PLAN APPROVAL/18 NEW TOWNHOUSE APARTMENTS
4. Town Board - MAJESTIC WOODS SUBDIVISION - CONDITIONAL APPROVAL
2. Board of Arch. Review - MINUTES – April 8, 2002
4. Supervisor - SEQR LEAD AGENCY DESIGNATION -GIBCO INVITROGEN CORP – 3175 STALEY RD.
5. Supervisor - ERIE COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT COUNCIL - JANUARY 2002 MEETING
None
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. Town Engineer - REVISED DRAFT ZONING MAP – dated June 5, 2001
2. Town Engineer - REVISED LWRP/NOVEMBER 2000
Town Delays Vote on Wilson Farms
By Joelle Logue
The town board, Monday, June 3, 2002 tabled a decision to vote on the revised SDEIS for Parkland Plaza/Wilson Farms complex proposed for the corner of Ransom Road and Stony Point. A lengthy letter concerning deficiencies in the SDEIS, written by concerned citizens in the area, was read by Kim Tetreault at the beginning of the meeting. Signed by Kim, Jennifer Dzielski, Eileen Cobello and Joan Arki, the letter urged the council not to vote on the project tonight and argued that the SDEIS failed to address traffic and safety concerns and was incomplete.
"No where does the developer review the total impacts of the newly proposed 16-acre commercial parcel," and only reviews the impact of Wilson Farms and the daycare center. Further, residents wrote that "the scoping document says the SDEIS must include an updated accident analysis for 1998, 1999 and 2000 for the entire corridor from Stony Point/Bedell to the daycare center" and that information is not in the SDEIS.
Traffic patterns of trucks entering and exiting Wilson Farms are also missing from the SDEIS and residents also feel not enough documentation was given regarding gasoline safety issues associated with the gas station piece of Wilson Farms. The letter also points to the fact there should be a "no gas" alternative to the project.
Councilman Kevin Rustowicz voiced his concerns about the latest analysis falling short of what the town needed to base its decision and motioned that the decision should be tabled in order to meet with attorney John Ottaviano who is representing the town in this matter.
The town has until June 20 to respond to the latest SDEIS and the next town board meeting planned for June 17 gives them time for further review.
Following a public hearing, at which no one spoke, on final plat approval for Park Place Subdivision (Phase 2) on Harvey Road, the town board referred the project to the Planning Board for review and recommendation. Also referred to the Planning Board were a request for conditional approval of Majestic Woods Subdivision, site plan approval of Mesmer Airstrip at 2548 Love Road, and site plan approval of 18 new town house apartments at Town Hall Terrace.
In other business, the board:
Proclamation Cites Eagle Scout
By Joelle Logue
James A. Frantz III was recognized Monday at the town board meeting for achieving the highest rank in Boy Scouting. The Eagle Scout, a member of Boy Scout Troop 510, completed a successful Eagle Scout project involving the identification and marking of various species of plant life along the Nature Trail on West River Road. The Continental Lane resident was accompanied by his mother.
The board also proclaimed Sunday, June 9, 2002 as "Charles N. DeGlopper Remembrance Day" and encouraged citizens to attend a new headstone dedication of DeGlopper's grave 1 p.m. Sunday, June 9 at Maple Grove Cemetery. The new headstone will cite him as a Congressional Medal of Honor designee. Displays of artifacts and memorabilia from DeGlopper's life and World War II will be on display Friday, Saturday and Sunday in historic Trinity Church.
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA WORKSHOP #18 6:30 P.M. – Monday, June 3, 2002
II NEW ITEMS (Note) Schedule Additional Workshop
A. Town Common Sign – Presentation R. Schopp
B. Rotary Hot Dog Sale – Photo
C. D. Learman – C of O
D. Highway – Capital Budget 2002
E. Police Car
F. GIBCO – Invitrogen – 40th Anniversary
G. Recreation Department – Overtime
H. West Oakfield Waterline
I. Bonding for Mining
J. Citizens Patrols – Concept
K. Water Meter Policy
L. Minutes 5/6/02 Workshop
M. Employee Evaluation Form
III CONTINUING ITEMS
A. Small Business Incubator
B. Pesticide Use on Town Property
C. Update Honor Roll – DeGlopper Park
D. Drainage Plan (s)
1. Stormwater
2. Neighborhood
3. Townwide
E. Town Hall Signs
IV ROUNDTABLE
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 10 Date: June 3, 2002
INVOCATION: St. Stephen’s Roman Catholic Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Crawford
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
PROCLAMATION:
Charles N. DeGlopper Remembrance Day
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of May 20, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. FINAL PLAT APPROVAL - PARK PLACE SUBDIVISION PHASE 2 on HARVEY ROAD
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Town of Colden Resolution Congratulating the Town of Grand Island on Sesquicentennial Celebration
2. County Health Department - Vector & Pest Control Program
3. Grand Island Lions Club - Annual Special Children’s Picnic
4. ECIDA - "Project Log"
5. Erie County Sales Tax Revenues - May 2002
6. Troy & Banks - Outstanding Request to Adelphia
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Workforce Corporation of Buffalo & Erie County Youth Services Summer Agreement
2. Town Commons Sign Proposal
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewal: N. Bruce Allen for Professional Office Building at 2695 Grand Island Boulevard
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
2. Site Plan Approval - Mesmer Air Strip 2548 Love Road
3. Site Plan Approval - Town Hall Terrace - 18 New Townhouse Apartments
TOWN ENGINEER/HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT
4. Award Bid - Duplex Area Resurfacing
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DLUGOKINSKI
5. New 2003 Heavy Duty Plow Truck and Chassis
6. Summer Hires
TOWN ATTORNEY PETER GODFREY
7. Agreement With Bargaining Units re: Prescription Co-Pay
8. Agreement With CSEA - Dog Control Officer
LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
9. Resignation of Trustee Gail Lazenby
10. Request to Appoint Trustee
ENRICHMENT & REFERRAL CENTER
11. Hire Outreach Worker & Recreation Attendant Part-time
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
ROBERT SCHOOPING
1. Rezoning of 2600 Grand Island Boulevard - B1 to B2 for Boat Sales & Related Equipment Sales
ROBERT WEAVER
2. Improve Entranceway to Jamestown Road
PRATT & HUTH ASSOCIATES, LLP
3. Conditional Approval - Majestic Woods Subdivision
HIDDEN OAKS SUBDIVISION
4. Lighting District Petition
JOHN OTTAVIANO, ESQ.
5. SDEIS Parkland Plaza/Wilson Farms
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Benderson vs. Town of Grand Island - Tax Settlement
vvv 2. Resolution Supporting US Rt. 219 As "Scenic Byway"
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
James Alan Bedford
Dorothy I. Tosetto
Warren S. Stamler
Public Hearings - June 6, 2002
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 June 6, 2002 at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall. The following variances will be considered:
New Town Website
The Town of Grand Island has just posted its new web site, complete with pictures and all necessary information from all departments of the town. To view the town web site, click "Grand Island".
ATTENTION! - REGISTERED REPUBLICANS AND DEMOCRATS
Election Inspectors Needed!
A training class for election inspectors will be held on Wednesday, June 12, 2002 (two times available, either 9 a.m. or 1 p.m.) in the Grand Island Town Hall courtroom. Men and women interested in being election inspectors are welcome. For further information, call Town Clerk Nancy Samrany’s office at 773-9600 Extension 622 or 621.
Service Reminder - Rabies Awareness
The following is offered as a service reminder from Supervisor Peter McMahon and Animal Control Officer Greg Butcher. With summer coming, residents are asked to be aware of the dangers of rabies and cautious of domestic as well as wild animals. The danger of being bitten by any animal is always a possibility and therefore residents are urged to ignore all but those animals that they are most familiar with. Following a recent dog bite where the animal could not be located, an Island homeowner and good samaritan who stopped to help the dog, has had to submit to a series of painful rabies vacinations. For further information or for answers to your questions, call Mr. Butcher at 773-9654.
Public Hearings On Zoning Revisions Scheduled
By Joelle Logue
Mon., May 20, 2002. . .In what has been many years in the working, a new zoning map for Grand Island will be presented at two public hearings in June. The first is scheduled for Tuesday, June 11 from 7-9:30 p.m. at Huth Road School and the second is set for Wednesday, June 19 from 7-9:30 p.m. at Kaegebein School. The changes in zoning, if approved, will be more in keeping with the Comprehensive Master Plan adopted in 1995. Copies of the map and more detailed information on the types of zoning and their definitions will be available for review in town hall beginning Tuesday, May 29.
The board also set a public hearing for 8 p.m. Monday, June 3 for final plat approval of Park Place Subdivision - Phase 2 (15 lots) on Harvey Road.
Referred to the town attorney and the personnel committee were letters from the town's unions (Teamsters Local #264, AFSCME and CSEA) regarding negotiations for renewing the collective bargaining agreements with the town. That will be the subject of a town board workshop set for June 26 at 7 p.m.
Special use renewals were approved for the Pepper Mill Restaurant at 2749 Grand Island Blvd., for Mr. and Mrs. Randon Hillock who have an agricultural permit with restrictions at 2263 Fix Road, for the keeping of two horses by Thomas Thompson at 2487 Long Road, for agriculture and the keeping of three horses by David and Laurie Williams at 2175 Staley Rd., for the keeping of two horses on 16 acres by David Fisher at 2919 Staley Rd.; and for the keeping of four horses by Patricia Carminati at 2565 Fix Rd.
Tabled last week but approved Monday was a special use renewal for agriculture/nursery and the keeping of horses by Leo and Betty Hopkins at 555 Ransom Rd.
There was opposition by Councilman Kevin Rustowicz over $84,360 in FEMA reimbursement money to be applied for machinery and equipment purchases. The money was received to cover expenses (overtime and materials) used in the 7-foot snowfall that hit at Christmas last year. Rustowicz felt it was inappropriate and irresponsible to use the money in this way since the town had agreed to hold the line on those purchases in this year's budget. However, the amendment passed by a 4-1 vote.
Three other budget amendments passed unanimously. One to accommodate a $11,075 from a grant obtained by the Grand Island Foundation from Erie County to cover Sue Novits' position and for youth services. Another accommodates a $1,000 donation from the Grand Island Foundation to fund the Kaegebein Elementary Friday night program. And the third addresses a transfer of $5000 from fire and liability insurance to personnel in the highway department.
A parking lot expansion at GIBCO/INVTROGEN Corp. on the south side of Staley Road was given the green light by the town board. The proposal adds 80 new parking places adjacent to the existing lot to accommodate 70 new hires. Also approved was a request by Dennis Kenney for a recreational pond at 2356 Staley Rd. as well as conditional approval of Phase 2 of Whitehaven Acres Subdivision located at the west end of Meadow Lane.
A minor amended site plan regarding a change of materials for a driveway at Site Utility Services, Inc., 2389 Whitehaven Road was granted by the board, thereby eliminating referral to the Planning Board.
In other business, the board:
Town Adopts Fee Schedule
By Joelle Logue
Mon., May 20, 2002. . .In a 4-1 vote with Councilman Kevin Rustowicz dissenting, the town board finally adopted a revised fee schedule effective June 1 after it had been tabled for more than four weeks. Town department heads had asked for increases in some permits and user fees and they used a comparison of other town's fees as a guideline.
Rustowicz objected to the timing of adopting a fee schedule with increases, saying it was inappropriate to raise fees at the government level at this time. But Mary Cooke said the increases were not made just to increase the revenue stream but to cover the costs involved in doing business in 2002. She added that the fees hadn't been adjusted in several years.
The revised fees include those associated with the Building Dept., Plumbing Dept., engineering, Town Clerk's office and other uses such as water taps, etc.
VFW Buddy Poppy Days This Weekend
Barbi Lare photo
By Joelle Logue
The Grand Island Town Board, Monday, May 20, 2002 proclaimed May 23, 24, and 25 VFW Buddy Poppy Days and urged citizens to buy a poppy from VFW members and auxiliary members who will be in several locations during the three day sale.
The poppies are assembled by disabled veterans and the proceeds of this worthy fundraiser go to benefit disabled or needy veterans. In addition, monies raised also benefit the widows and orphans of deceased veterans at the National Home in Eaton Rapids, Michigan.
The Buddy Poppy resulted from the inspiration of the 1915 poem "In Flanders Fields" and is accepted as the symbol of remembrance for Memorial Day.
The VFW will conduct a Memorial Day ceremony at DeGlopper Park at 10 a.m. Monday, May 28. Preceding that the color guard will visit the grave sites of Island war veterans in cemeteries throughout the Island.
In addition to proclaiming this coming weekend as Buddy Poppy Days, the town board also declared this week (May 19-25) as Emergency Medical Services Week. Fire Company EMS Captain Bob Clevelandwas on hand to receive the proclamation which thanked all members of the pre-hospital emergency medical community, in particular, the members of the Grand Island Fire Company, for their many hours of selfless service.
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA WORKSHOP #17 6:30 P.M. – Monday, May 20, 2002
I MOTION FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION
A. Personnel Issue
B. Bargaining Units – Negotiations
C. Legal Opinion – P. Godfrey
II AGENDA REVIEW
A. Fee Schedule
III NEW ITEMS (set additional workshop)
A. Highway 2002 Budget
1. Capital
2. Equipment
B. Replace Police Car
C. GIBCO – Invitrogen – GIPD Request
D. Board of Ethics – Form Approval
E. Recreation Department Overtime
F. West Oakfield Waterline – Parks Upgrade
G. GIPD – Soluri – Request for Course
H. Plumbing Ordinance – Revision
I. Bonding for Mining
J. Citizen Patrols – Concept
K. Employee Evaluation Form – Approval
L. Water Meter Policy
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
A. Small Business Incubator
B. Pesticide Use by Town of GI Update Sign Ordinance
C. DeGlopper Park – Update Honor Roll
D. Drainage Plan
E. Town Hall Signs
V ROUNDTABLE
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA WORKSHOP #17
6:30 P.M. – Monday, May 20, 2002
A. Personnel Issue
B. Bargaining Units – Negotiations
C. Legal Opinion – P. Godfrey
II AGENDA REVIEW
A. Fee Schedule
III NEW ITEMS (set additional workshop)
A. Highway 2002 Budget
1. Capital
2. Equipment
B. Replace Police Car
C. GIBCO – Invitrogen – GIPD Request
D. Board of Ethics – Form Approval
E. Recreation Department Overtime
F. West Oakfield Waterline – Parks Upgrade
G. GIPD – Soluri – Request for Course
H. Plumbing Ordinance – Revision
I. Bonding for Mining
J. Citizen Patrols – Concept
K. Employee Evaluation Form – Approval
L. Water Meter Policy
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
A. Small Business Incubator
B. Pesticide Use by Town of GI Update Sign Ordinance
C. DeGlopper Park – Update Honor Roll
D. Drainage Plan
E. Town Hall Signs
V ROUNDTABLE
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 9 Date: MAY 20, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: New Apostolic Church
PLEDGE: Councilwoman Cooke
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
PROCLAMATION - VFW BUDDY POPPY DAYS
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of May 6, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M. NONE
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Board of Architectural Review - Minutes of Meeting: April 8, 2002
2. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meetings: April 4 & May 2, 2002
3. Adelphia Cable - Yes Network
4. State Board of Real Property Services - Final Special Franchise Assessment
5. County Computer Recycling Drop-off Day
6. Golden Age Center - Usage of Vehicles & Facilities for April 2002
7. Building Permits - April 2002
8. Erie County Personnel - Annual Certification of Town’s Payroll
9. Governor’s Acknowledgement of Resolution to Amend Vehicle & Traffic Law for Emergency Vehicles on Highway
10. County Commissioner of Public Works - Bid Information for Road Repaving
11. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: April 9, 2002
12. NYSDEC - SEQR Lead Agency Designation Gibco/Invitrogen 3175 Staley Road
13. Governor’s Office - Modifications of the New Building Codes of New York State
14. NYS Environmental Facilities Corporation-Wastewater Treatment Facilities Project
15. Planning Board - Minutes of Meeting: April 8, 2002
16. NYS Department of Motor Vehicles - "Buckle Up New York, Click It or Ticket"
17. Animal Control Statistics - April 2002
18. Erie County Community Development Block Grant Consortium Agreement
19. Youth Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: April 4, 2002
COMMUNICATIONS – TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. CSEA, TEAMSTERS LOCAL #264 & A.F.S.C.M.E: Notice for Negotiations for Successor Agreements
2. Set Public Hearing - Zoning Code Revisions
3. Town Commons Sign Proposal
4. J. O’Connell & Associates Grant Agreement Contract
5. Peace Bridge Expansion Project
6. Abolish Position - Clerk Typist Part-time
7. Approve Complaint Form - Board of Ethics
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewals:
A. Larry Braddell & Bev Davey - Bar/Restaurant at 2749 Grand Island Boulevard
B. Mr. & Mrs. Randon Hillock 2263 Fix Road - Agricultural Use/Restrictions
C. Thomas Thompson 2487 Long Road - Two (2) Horses
D. David & Laurie Williams 2175 Staley Road - Agricultural/Keeping up to Three (3) Horses
E. David Fisher 2919 Staley Road - Two (2) Equine Animals on 16 Acres
F. Patricia K. Carminati 2565 Fix Road - House up to Four (4) Horses/Private Use
PLANNING BOARD
2. Gibco/Invitrogen 3175 Staley Road - Site Plan 62,000 S.F. Warehouse Expansion
3. Dennis Kenney 2356 Staley Road - Recreational Pond
4. Whitehaven Acres West End of Meadow Lane - Conditional Approval Phase 2
TOWN ACCOUNTANT PAM WHITNEY
5. Budget Amendments:
A. Erie County Grant - GI Foundation
B. Grand Island Foundation Donation
C. Highway Fund Budget Transfers
D. 2002 Highway Equipment Budget
GOLDEN AGE DIRECTOR
6. Hiring Personnel
WATER SUPERINTENDENT JOHN MARTIN
7. Seasonal Personnel
ENRICHMENT & REFERRAL CENTER
8. Hiring Three Part-time Temporary Positions
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
9. Award Bid - West Oakfield Road Waterline Reconstruction
10. Park Place Subdivision Phase 2 (Harvey Road) - Final Plat Approval
TOWN ATTORNEY PETER GODFREY
11. Benderson v Town of Grand Island Tax Settlement
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
SITE UTILITY SERVICES, INC.
1. Site Plan Revision at 2389 Whitehaven Road
MARK GOC
2. Drainage Ditch Problem at Colonial-Driftwood Town Park
TOWN OF BOSTON
3. Resolution Supporting US Route 219 as "Scenic Byway"
BARBARA BRYSKI
4. Retirement
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Special Use Renewal: Leo & Betty Hopkins 555 Ransom Road Five Horses Agriculture/Nursery
2. Economic Development Committee - Allocation Request for Trade Show
3. Resolution Against Proposed Increase in Local Government Records Management Fund
4. Adopt Fee Schedule
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Nellie C. Weingartner
Mae (Webb) Eastman
Helena (Shea) Kerr
Monies Okayed For Playground Equipment
By Joelle Logue
Mon., May 6, 2002. . .The town board, Monday, amended the budget to provide $9,654 to the Recreation Department for costs involved in replacing and correcting the damage done from vandalism to the Kaegebein playground unit, and for providing a play unit, basketball post, funnel ball, safety surface and landscaping at Tower Park Playground.
In addition, the board approved the hiring of part-time seasonal summer recreation attendants. Twenty-four are returning attendants, lifeguards, instructors and leaders with salaries ranging from $5.90 to $7. There will also be 10 new hires at $5.70 per hour along with three in maintenance (two at $6.75 and one at $6.50).
Referred to the Town Attorney for review was a new Parks and Recreation policy regarding athletic field use. The policy sets a priority scale for groups requesting use of the fields giving town government and town run programs first consideration. The policy gives details on certificate of insurance requirements, user fees and field closures.
A request from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for a professional to prepare preliminary lay out and cost estimates for a Recreation Community Center in Veterans Park was referred to the town board for capital budget consideration.
Supervisor Peter McMahon was authorized to sign an agreement with TVGA for additional engineering services to review the revised traffic study for Parkland Enterprises/Wilson Farms that is proposed for Ransom Road. The revised study will be submitted with the revised SDEIS, the first of which was found inadequate with regards to the supplemental traffic impact assessment.
In another area of traffic concern, the board referred a memorandum from the Grand Island Safety Committee of the school district regarding parking in front of the high school and middle school on Ransom Road to the Traffic Safety Committee and asked that the committee consider the surrounding residential area in their review.
The town, having been contacted about five parcels of land owned by the county (four 40 ft. lots on Glen Avon and one on Whitehaven Road), indicated it was not interested in buying any of the properties which the county now wants to sell. Therefore, the county will proceed with the sale of the lots.
Referred to the Planning Board for review and recommendation were requests for site plan approval at GIBCO/Invitrogen Corp., 3175 Staley Road for a 62,000 sq. ft. warehouse expansion and parking lot expansion, site plan approval for a recreational pond at 2356 Staley Road, and conditional approval of six five-acre lots at the west end of Meadow Lane, Phase 2 of Whitehaven Acres.
Special use renewals were granted to Daniel Robillard at 423 Ransom Road and to Cingular Wireless for its cellular antenna on the water tower on Carl Road on condition that the landscaping be restored. Tabled for further review was a special use renewal request for agricultural use by Leo and Betty Hopkins at 555 Ransom Road. Site plan requirements were waived for Gene and Christine Ryshkus of the Grand Island Garden Center for replacement of a 21x96 ft. greenhouse that was destroyed in a March windstorm. Announced was a withdrawal of a request to amend the zoning map by Daniel Stedman at 330 East River Road.
In other business, the board:
on file in the Engineering Department to include the use of HDPE pipe.
ECIDA Sets Public Hearing For American Pharmaceuticals Project
By Joelle Logue
The Erie County Industrial Development Agency will conduct a public hearing at 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 14 in the Grand Island Town Hall Board Room.
Under consideration is financing of costs in connection with the acquisition and installation of nonproduction related equipment for manufacturing, the renovation of existing buildings and the construction of an 18,206 sq. ft. building addition for American Pharmaceuticals at 3159 Staley Road. ECIDA assistance is projected for the issuance and sale of Industrial Revenue Bonds in the estimated amount of $11,100,500 to finance the equipment and $11,170,500 to finance the building improvements. Also to be considered is property tax benefits with respect to the town and school district.
Town Presents Three Proclamations
By Joelle Logue
Mon., May 6, 2002. . .Many members of the Golden Age Club were in attendance at Monday's town board meeting. Not only did they lead the session in the Pledge of Allegiance, they received a proclamation in recognition of May as Older Americans Month. Supervisor Peter McMahon praised the club for providing necessary services, stimulating opportunities and a friendly environment since the club's inception in 1959.
In addition, a proclamation declaring May Traffic Safety Awareness Month was presented to Dorothy Bitner who chairs the Traffic Safety Advisory Board. A third proclamation declared the week of May 19-25 as National Public Works Week in recognition of the dedicated personnel who staff public works agencies and efficiently oversee systems such as water, sewer, highways and public buildings.
Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off Day Set
By Joelle Logue
Erie County and the Town of Amherst will co-sponsor a Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Day Saturday, May 18 at Erie County Community College's North Campus between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Items to be accepted include antifreeze, batteries (lead acid), bug sprays, car wax, diesel fuel, drain cleaner, fertilizers, fungicide, gasoline, glue, kerosene, motor oil, mercury products, oil-based paint, oven cleaner, paint thinner and stripper, pesticides, pool chemicals, primer, propane cylinders, rodent poison, rust remover, spray paint, transmission fluid, turpentine, varnish and wood preservatives. Items excluded are asbestos, explosives and ammunition, fire extinguishers, fireworks, fluorescent light bulbs, freon tanks, medical waste, oxygen tanks, radioactive materials, smoke detectors and biological wastes.
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 8 Date: MAY 6, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: Bible Presbyterian Church
PLEDGE: Golden Age Members
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
PROCLAMATION – OLDER AMERICANS MONTH
PROCLAMATION - NATIONAL PUBLIC WORKS WEEK
PROCLAMATION - TRAFFIC SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of April 15, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Office of State Comptroller - 2002 Schedule of Satellite TeleConferences
2. NYSDOT - Designation of Restricted Highway South Parkway/Stony Point Extension
3. Erie County Real Property Director - Notice of Certificate of Attendance at Board of Assessment Review Training
4. Adelphia Cable - Franchise Fee Structure Changes
5. GIFTS Advantage Execute Committee - Minutes of Meeting: April 16, 2002
6. ECIDA - Public Hearing May 14, 2002 for American Pharmaceutical Partners
7. Youth Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: March 7, 2002
8. Library Board of Trustees - Minutes of Meeting: January 14, 2002
9. Erie County Environmental Management Meeting: April 17, 2002
10. Erie County Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Day
11. Erie County Personnel - Rules Governing Civil Service Lists
12. County Department of Environment & Planning - Consortium Project Selection Committee Memorandums
13. County Commission of Status of Women - Request for Update of Community
14. Lumsden & McCormick, LLP - Free Government Seminar
15. Clean Water State Revolving Fund - Proposed Draft Amendment
16. Erie County Comptroller - Sales Tax Revenue for April 2002
17. Seminar - "Solving Water Intrusion and Mold Problems in New York"
18. Community Enrichment Council - Minutes of Meeting: April 18, 2002
19. DEC Commissioner - 30th Anniversary of the "Clean Water Act"
20. Univera Healthcare - Rising Costs of Health Coverage Due to Legislative Mandates
21. Recreation Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: March 25, 2002
22. Animal Control Statistics - March 2002
23. G.I. Chamber of Commerce - Request to Thruway Authority for Welcome Signs
24. FEMA Payment - December 2001 Storm
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR MCMAHON
1. Monthly Reports - March 2002 & April 2002
2. County Owned Parcels in Town of Grand Island on Glen Avon Road
3. Governor’s Announcement of Available Grant Opportunities
4. SDEIS Parkland Enterprises, Inc.
5. County Owned Parcels in Town of Grand Island on Whitehaven Road
6. G.I. Central School District - "No Parking" on Ransom Road
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewals:
A. Leo & Elizabeth Hopkins 555 Ransom Road - Five (5)
Horses/Agriculture/Nursery
B. Cingular Wireless 85 Carl Road/Water Tower - Cellular Antenna
C. Daniel Robillard 423 Ransom Road - Agriculture Use
2. Rezoning Application - D. Stedman 340 East River Road R1-B to B-2
RECREATION DIRECTOR LINDA TUFILLARO
3. Kaegebein Playground
4. Tower Playground Equipment
5. Hire Summer Personnel
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD
6. Policy for Athletic Field Use
7. Request for Funding
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
8. Site Plan Approval - GIBCO/Invitrogen Corp. 3175 Staley Road
9. Authorize Additional Engineering Services - TVGA Traffic Consultant for Parkland
Enterprises/Wilson Farms
10. Site Plan Approval - D. Kenney 2356 Staley Road for Recreational Pond
11. Conditional Approval - Whitehaven Acres Phase 2
12. Adopt Standard Detail Sheets
13. Authorize Clough Harbour Agreement
TOWN ACCOUNTANT PAM WHITNEY
14. Budget Amendment - General Fund
TOWN ASSESSOR DAVID UMACK
15. Scheduling of Assessment Grievance Day
BOARD OF ETHICS COMMITTEE
16. Sample Complaint Form
GOLDEN AGE DIRECTOR BARBARA GANNON
17. Hiring Personnel
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
ROBERT WEAVER
1. Sign Request for Island Meadows Subdivision
LOVE ROAD RESIDENTS
2. Petition Against Unsafe Building at 3312 Love Road
GRAND ISLAND GARDEN CENTER 2120 ALVIN ROAD
3. Request for Site Plan Waiver
BETTY HARRIS
4. Resignation - Youth Council/Enrichment Program
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
5. Allocation Request for Trade Show
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Resolution Against Proposed Increase Local Government Records Management Fund
2. Adopt Fee Schedule
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
George J. Meyer
Thomas A. McKeen
Mesmer Hangar Permit Stirs Up Neighbors
Neighbors of Robert F. Mesmer are protesting his request from the town to construct a 24-foot-high, 50-by-60-foot hangar on his 16-acre property at 2548 Love Road, due to the fact that the area isn't zoned for that type of structure. For a complete story, click "Buffalo News."
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP MEETING:
Date Monday, MAY 6, 2002 - 6:30 P.M.
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
Town Sets Public Hearings
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 May 2, 2002 at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall. The following variances will be considered:
Public Hearing Set On People Inc. Projects
By Joelle Logue
The Erie County Industrial Development Agency (ECIDA) has set a public hearing for Saturday, May 10, 2002 at 9 a.m. regarding the acquisition of properties, construction or renovation of buildings and refinancing of existing mortgages on facilities at 1457 Whitehaven Road and 5370 East River Road. These locations will be used to house or provide services to developmentally disabled individuals, senior citizens and their families and will be operated by People, Inc.
The project application is available for public inspection at the offices of the ECIDA, 275 Oak St., Buffalo, during weekdays, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Town Approves Site Plan For Peppermill Restaurant
By Joelle Logue
The Town Board Monday gave site plan approval for the expansion of Peppermill Restaurant located at 2749 Grand Island Blvd. The plan includes construction of a 14x27 foot addition to the front of the building which would add 42 seats and additional parking space to accommodate 70 cars.
A proclamation declaring the week of April 28 as Town Clerk's Week was presented to Town Clerk Nancy Samrany and her deputy clerks in appreciation for the vital services performed on a daily basis. Cited was their impartial and equal service to all citizens of the community and their participation in the education programs, seminars, workshops and annual meetings of the state, province, county and international, professional organizations.
Tabled by the board for further review was a request from Erie County Clerk David Swarts to support a resolution in opposition to the governor's plan for increasing the Records Management fee from $5 to $20. The resolution states that the governor proposes to remove certain offices overseeing the Cultural Education from the NYS Education Department and incorporate them into an entirely new Institute for Cultural Education. To fund the institute, fees would be raised from $5 to $20 on all recorded, indexed and entered documents. According to Swarts this fee increase would provide no improvement in service for the taxpayers paying the fee nor provide any additional benefits to the local governments responsible for collecting the fee increase.
A proposed amendment to Vehicle and Traffic Law for approaching emergency vehicles on the highway was given unanimous support by the board. Suggested wording to be added to the law is as follows: "Upon immediately approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle equipped with at lease one lighted lamp exhibiting a red light visible under normal atmospheric conditions from a distance of 500 feet to the front of such vehicle other than a police vehicle or bicycle when operated as authorized emergency vehicle, on a highway having at least four lanes,.the driver of every other vehicle shall proceed with caution, reduced speed and, if possible, such driver shall change into a lane not immediately adjacent to that occupied by such emergency vehicle."
In other business, the board:
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA WORKSHOP #15 8:45 P.M. – Monday, April 15, 2002
A. Briefing by Hodgson Russ regarding Contractual Issues
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA WORKSHOP #14 6:30 P.M. – Monday April 15, 2002
A. Personnel Issue(s)
II AGENDA REVIEW
A. Fee Schedule
B. NYS Archives Resolution
III NEW ITEMS
A. Richard Phillips Letter regarding Police Academy
B. Kaegebein Playground Equipment Damage
C. HDPE Pipe
D. Highway Department
1. 2002 Equipment Budget
2. 2002 Capital Budget
E. Employee Evaluation Form
F. Water Department Meter Reading Policy
G. Bonding for Mining
H. Citizen Patrols
I. Telephone Service
J. Plumbing Ordinance Revisions
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
A. Small Business Incubator
B. Pesticide Use by Town
C. Update Sign Ordinance
D. DeGlopper Park – Update Honor Roll
E. Drainage
F. Town Hall Signs
V ROUNDTABLE
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 7 Date: April 15, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: St. Timothy Lutheran Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Robillard
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
PROCLAMATION: TOWN CLERK WEEK
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of April 1, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M. NONE
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Building Permits - March 2002
2. Golden Age Center - Usage of Facilities and Vehicles for March 2002
3. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meetings: March 7, & April 4, 2002
4. Board of Architectural Review - Minutes of Meeting: March 11, 2002
5. Recreation Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: January 28, 2002
6. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: March 12, 2002
7. Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy - Awareness Training Course Completed
8. NYS Office of Real Property Services - Residential Assessment Ratio for the Town
9. Planning Board - Minutes of Meetings: February 11 & March 11, 2002
10. Wastewater Reports to NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
11. County Department of Emergency Services - Minutes of Meeting: February 26, 2002
12. Niagara Mohawk’s Spring Customer Briefing
13. Seneca Nation Lawsuit News Article
14. MRT, P.C. - Franchise Fee Compliance Review
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Approve Position of Van Driver Part-time
2. Grand Island Little League - Opening Day Ceremonies Saturday, May 4, 2002
3. Legislator Swanick - Residents’ Complaint of an Unsafe Fence on Dolphin Drive
4. Assemblyman Hoyt - Proposed Amendment to Vehicle & Traffic Law for Approaching Emergency Vehicles on Highway
5. ECIDA 2002 People, Inc. Project Public Hearing
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewal: James & Kathleen Lorentz 2555 Staley Road - Keeping of Horses
2. Resolution Against Proposed Increase in Local Government Records Management Fund
3. Public Records and Open Meetings Forum
PLANNING BOARD
4. Peppermill Restaurant -2749 Grand Island Blvd. - Site Plan Approval for Building Expansion and Additional Parking
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
5. West Oakfield Road Waterline Reconstruction
6. Clarification of Stedman Rezoning
BUILDING INSPECTOR DOUGLAS LEARMAN
7. Exception to Subdivision Regulations for Vacant Lot at 1463 Huth Road
RECREATION DIRECTOR LINDA TUFILLARO
8. Summer Hire
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
JACKSON MUSIC, COM
1. WNED Buffalo Niagara Guitar Festival
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation - Easement at 318 Baseline Road
2. Adopt Fee Schedule
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Louise Sprankle
William Rossie
June S. (Langhoop) Pinzel
Ruth M.Horner, Former Grand Island Town Clerk
Veronica Connor, Past Superintendent of Grand Island Schools
Town To Re-advertise For Two Rec. Positions
By Joelle Logue
Two part-time positions remain vacant in the Recreation Department and the Town Board agreed to re-advertise for candidates at Monday's Town Board meeting.
The position of Outreach Worker involves client contact, intake and referral duties, case management, running parenting programs, planning community events and taking on youth center responsibilities. Qualifications include a four-year degree in social work, psychology or human services. Two years experience with a two-year degree may be substituted for the bachelor's degree. Some evening and weekend work is required. Starting salary is $10.80 per hour.
Recreation Attendant - Part Time is needed to provide supervision, site management and maintenance of facility safety standards. A youth center environment schedule includes five hours per week on Friday or Saturday evening. Starting pay is $6.06 per hour.
Letters of interest for the above positions should be mailed to Town Supervisor Peter McMahon, 2255 Baseline Road, Grand Island, NY 14072.
Town Authorizes Bonds For Sewer Improvements
Board Divided On Camera For Sewers
By Joelle Logue
The Town Board Monday, April 1, 2002 held two public hearings on bonding wastewater treatment improvements. Hearing no comment on either one, the board authorized the supervisor to bond for the repairing, replacing and/or lining the deteriorated areas of the sanitary sewers for Love, Red Jacket and Hennepin Roads at a cost not to exceed $647,000. Manhole repairs will also be completed in these areas to maintain structural integrity of the sewer lines. In addition, bonds were authorized for a new prista grit unit, return activated sludge pumping and piping improvements, waste activated sludge pumping and piping improvements, and new sewage grinders at the wastewater treatment plant. The cost for this project is estimated not to exceed $878,000.
Related to the sewer lines and held over for further study from the March 18, 2002 town board meeting was the issue of purchasing a sewer camera inspection system. Councilman Dick Crawford moved to transfer funds from the unreserved sewer fund balance in the amount of $41,500 to buy the closed circuit TV camera and a trailer to pull the equipment behind a pick-up. Foster's Equipment was awarded the bid for furnishing the TV inspection system at a cost of $34,492 by a 3-2 vote margin.
Arguing against the camera purchase was Councilman Dan Robillard who felt that the technology was unnecessary and would become obsolete. He questioned whether this was a business the town wanted to get into. Stating it was not a priority at this time, Rustowicz attributed to the "tax and spend Republican" philosophy and said the taxpayers deserved better. He called it a luxury product rather than needed equipment, and cited that the county had 800 miles of sewer lines in which cameras were constantly breaking down. Councilwoman Mary Cooke countered by saying she would not have supported the purchase just after September 11, but seeing that the funds are available now and based on Wastewater Superintendent Wayne Clinton's report, she felt it a good preventative and eventual cost savings measure. She added that the town has spent an average of $8145 per year for camera services and in four years, the camera would pay for itself.
In other business, the board:
Polling Sites Designated
By Joelle Logue
The Town Board Monday designated the following polling places for the town: Districts 1 and 4 (Nike Base, 3278 Whitehaven Road), District 2 and 11 (Huth Road School, 1773 Huth Road), District 3 (High School, 1100 Ransom Rd.), District 5 (Highway Garage, 1820 Whitehaven Rd.), Districts 6, 7, 9 and 10 (Kaegebein School, 1690 Love Rd.), District 8 (Fire House, 790 Baseline Rd.), Districts 12, 13 and 14 (Town Hall, 2255 Baseline Rd.) and District 15 (Fire House, 3293 Stony Point Rd.)
Councilman Dick Crawford commented that the town should consider re-districting for the year 2003 and that the matter should be considered the topic of an upcoming workshop.
TOWN OF GRAND ISLAND
OUTREACH WORKER - PART TIME
The Town of Grand Island is seeking qualified applicants for the part time position of Outreach Worker. Duties include client contact, performing intake and referral, case management, parenting programs, planning community events and youth center responsibilities. The candidate must be a dependable, motivated, self-starting, responsible individual with a four-year degree in social work, psychology or human services. Two years experience with a two-year degree may be substituted for the Bachelor’s degree. This is a fifteen hours per week position. Starting pay is $10.80/hr. Some evening and weekend work is part of the job. Submit a letter of interest including qualifications and experience to:
2255 Baseline Road
Grand Island, N.Y. 14072
Letters received prior to May 1st will be considered.
TOWN OF GRAND ISLAND
RECREATION ATTENDANT - PART TIME
The Town of Grand Island - Reality Café is seeking qualified candidates to provide supervision, site management and maintenance of facility safety standards. A youth center environment schedule includes five hours per week on Friday and/or Saturday evening. Desirable qualifications include a college degree and experience working with young adults. Starting pay is $6.46/hr. A letter of interest including qualifications to:
2255 Baseline Road
Grand Island, N.Y. 14072
Letters received prior to May 1st will be considered.
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 6 Date: April 1, 2002
INVOCATION: Whitehaven Road Baptist Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Rustowicz
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board meeting of March 18, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS FOR LOVE, RED JACKET AND HENNEPIN ROADS
2. WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT IMPROVEMENTS & I & I IMPROVEMENTS
3. ESTABLISHMENT OF ISLAND MEADOWS LIGHTING DISTRICT CONSENT AGENDA
1. Youth Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: January 31, 2002
2. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: February 12, 2002
3. Animal Control Statistics for February 2002
4. State of New York Public Service Commission - Case Procedural Rulings
5. Board of Plumbing Examiners - Minutes of Meeting: March 19, 2002
6. NYSDEC - Public Hearings Relating to Commercial Lawn Pesticide Application
7. Erie County Department of Environment & Planning - Financial Assistance Information
8. County Computer Recycling Day
9. Governor Pataki - Communication/Economic Growth
10. Erie County Sales Tax Report - March 2002
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Communication From Legislator Swanick Regarding Grand Island Resident Request for Sidewalks and Reduced Speed at Bedell and Stony Point Road Area
2. U.S. Department of Agriculture District Conservationist - Federal Farmland Protection Program & NYS Priority Waterbodies List Update
3. Justice Court Assistance Program 2002
4. Reality Café Carpeting
5. Erie County Real Property Tax Services - Grand Island Tax Cancellations and Refunds
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Designation of Polling Places
2. Special Use Renewal - Sprint Sites, USA for Communication Tower at Bikepath off Bedell Road
COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT COUNCIL
3. New Hire
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
4. Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation Easement at 318 Baseline Road
5. Site Plan Approval - Pepper Mill Restaurant 2725 Grand Island Boulevard
WASTEWATER SUPERINTENDENT WAYNE CLINTON
6. Summary of Costs and Benefits of CCTV Camera
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
GRAND ISLAND SESQUICENTENNIAL COMMITTEE
1. Request for Banner Permission
BETTY GORTON
2. Resignation as Clerk Typist in Recreation Department
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Sewer Camera Inspection Station (Budget Amendment)
2. Award Bid - Sewer Camera
3. Adopt Fee Schedule
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Arthur C. Walter
Kuldip “Deep” Chopra
Patrick Lenehan
John S. Scott
Isabel B. Taylor
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD AGENDA WORKSHOP #13:
Date Monday, April 1, 2002 - 6:30 P.M.
I MOTION FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION
Discuss CSEA Correspondence
II AGENDA REVIEW
Fee Schedule
Community Enrichment Council - Vacancies
III NEW ITEMS
Town Engineer memo regarding HDPE Pipe?
NYS Archives - Resolution?
Highway
2002 Capital Projects
2002 Equipment Budget
Employee Evaluation Form
Water Department Meter Reading Policy
Mining - Bonds to cover damage
Citizen Patrols
Telephone Service
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
Small Business Incubator
Pesticide Use by Town
Update Sign Ordinance
DeGlopper Park - Update Honor Roll
Drainage
Town Hall Signs
V ROUNDTABLE
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP MEETING:
Date Monday, MARCH 25, 2002 - 4:00 P.M.
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
Town Sets Three Public Hearings
By Joelle Logue
The Town Board Monday set three public hearings for April 1, 2002 at 8 p.m. To be considered are proposed wastewater treatment system improvements for Love, Red Jacket and Hennepin roads at a cost not to exceed $647,000. This will include repairing, replacing and/or lining the deteriorated areas of the sanitary sewers and make manhole repairs in areas to maintain structural integrity of the sewer lines.
Wastewater treatment plant improvements consisting of a new prista grit unit, return activated sludge pumping and piping improvements, waste activated sludge pumping and piping improvements, and new sewage grinders will be aired as well. The cost for this project is estimated not to exceed $878,000.
Also to be heard are comments regarding establishment of an Island Meadows Lighting District (No. 34) at a total annual charge not to exceed $2,043.13.
A lengthy discussion regarding the spending of $41,500 for a sewer camera inspection system resulted in a tabling of the issue until the town board can review other technology that may cost the town less. Questions were raised by Councilman Dan Robillard who said he had spent a lot of time researching the issue and couldn't justify the cost. He supports other ways to get the job done. Kevin Rustowicz added he had asked the town engineer for a cost benefit analysis on why this had to be purchased and had not received an answer.
Special use renewals were granted to Sherwood and Florence Prawel for the keeping of three horses at 2400 Fix Road and to Diane Schooping for the keeping of five horses at 2450 Whitehaven Road.
Exception to subdivision regulations were approved for William Torchia of Bedell Road who is permitted to take 50 ft. from 2940 Bedell Road and add it to the 70 ft. parcel thereby creating a building lot of 120x287 ft. Also granted exception to subdivision regulations was Terry Manning who will split a lot that is currently 189.6x183 ft. in Meadow Lane Extension.
Site plan approval was granted to American Pharmaceuticals at 3159 Staley Road to expand by moving the warehouse towards the back of the plant with a 150x100 ft. addition to be constructed at the north end of the warehouse. The employee entrance will be moved to the east side of the new addition keeping truck traffic from going down an alleyway. Two cooling towers will be installed on top of the mezzanine, an enclosed emergency generator will be placed in front of the existing warehouse on the west side, and a new transformer will be installed as well.
A site plan waiver was approved for Fujisawa Healthcare for the construction of a 30x50 ft. storage building.
Notable among the Consent Agenda items were donations by Carl Deuble to Reality Café and Youth Court, the annual report of the Parks and Recreation Department which is available for review, and a letter from Six Flags Darien Lake indicating there were 2500 summer jobs in more than 35 areas available this summer.
In other business, the town board:
Advisory Board Appointees Named
By Joelle Logue
The following individuals were named to vacancies on advisory boards during Monday's Town Board Meeting: Betty Harris to the Traffic Safety Advisory Board, term ending 2003; Ted Bates to the Cable TV Committee, term ending 2008; Kristin Cadro to the Youth Advisory Board, term ending 2003; and David Miller to the Parks and Recreation Board, term ending 2005.
Sesquicentennial Tree Project Approved
By Joelle Logue
As part of the festivities surrounding the 150th anniversary of the town this year, the planting of 150 trees along roadways throughout Veterans Park was approved as a late spring volunteer community project.
On a date yet to be determined in May, individuals will be encouraged to purchase a tree for $25 and plant it at Veterans Park in memory of a loved one or simply to commemorate the town's birthday. A plaque will be installed in the park to acknowledge the project and recognize all contributors.
Total cost is estimated at $8500 which includes everything from digging the holes in the ground to the mulch. Donating to the commemorative event is Erie County Legislator Chuck Swanick with $2500 and GIBCO-Invitrogen with another $2500. The remaining costs would come from individual tree purchases.
Watch this website for updated information regarding the project.
GRAND ISLAND TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP AGENDA:
Date Monday, March 18th, 2002 - 6:30 P.M.
I MOTION FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION
Personnel Issue - Godfrey
Employee Benefit Issue - Godfrey
II AGENDA REVIEW
Fee Schedule
Advisory Board Appointments
Fire Extinguisher Contract
III NEW ITEMS
People to People Ambassador
Veterans Park - Sesquicentennial Tree Project
Sesquicentennial Events
Town Common
Ararat Stone
Citizen of the Year - Service to Youth
Alert Grand Island
Hamlet Zoning (H or B-3)
NYS Laws of 2001 - Chapt. #529
Employee Evaluation Form - Review
Water Department - Meter Reading Policy
Holiday Banner
Mining - Bonds for Damage
Citizen Patrol
Telephone
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
Small Business Incubator
Pesticide Use - Town Property
Update Sign Ordinance
DeGlopper Park Honor Roll Update
Town Hall Signs
Drainage
V ROUNDTABLE
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 5 Date: MARCH 18, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: St. Martin-In-The-Fields Episcopal Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Crawford
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of March 4, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M. NONE
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Six Flags/Darien Lake - Summer Employment Applications
2. Erie County Legislature - Resolution for Reimbursement of Snow Emergency Costs
3. Golden Age Center - Usage of Facilities and Vehicles for February 2002
4. Building Permits - February 2002
5. Parks and Recreation Department - Annual Report for 2001
6. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meeting: February 7, 2002
7. Great Lakes Environmental Education - Western New York Earth Day
8. Board of Architectural Review - Minutes of Meeting: February 11, 2002
9. Plumbing Board of Examiners - Minutes of Meeting: February 26, 2002
10. Kaleida Health Corporate Offices Communication
11. Donation to Youth Court and Reality Café
12. Release of Properties From County Ownership
COMMUNICATIONS – TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Supervisor’s Monthly Reports - January & February 2002
2. Greater Buffalo Track Club - Eighth Annual Grand Island Half Marathon
3. Fire Extinguisher Service Contract
4. Resolution - Town Employees on Military Duty
5. Sewer Camera Inspection System
6. Award Bid - Sewer Camera
7. Veterans Park Sesquicentennial Trees
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewals:
A. Sherwood & Florence Prawel 2400 Fix Road - Keeping up to Three (3) Horses
B. Diane Schooping 2450 Whitehaven Road - Keeping of Five (5) Horses
2. State Comptroller - Report of Examination for Town of Grand Island
PLANNING BOARD
3. American Pharmaceuticals Partners, Inc. 3159 Staley Road - Site Plan Approval for Building Expansion
4. William Torchia - West of 2940 Bedell Road - Exception to Subdivision Regulations
5. Terry Manning Meadow Lane Extension - Exception to Subdivision Regulations
BUILDING INSPECTOR DOUGLAS LEARMAN
6. Site Plan Waiver for Fujisawa Healthcare Inc.
GOLDEN AGE CENTER
7. Van Driver
TOWN COUNSEL PETER GODFREY
8. Tax Certiorari Matters
9. Set Public Hearing - WWTP & I & I Improvements
10. Negotiations for Assessment Services
11. Set Public Hearing - River Oaks Lighting District
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
CSEA - UNIT PRESIDENT
1. Supplemental Military Leave
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Revised Site Plan - River Oaks Marina 101 Whitehaven
2. Appointment to Cable Committee
3. Adopt Fee Schedule
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Ellen Griffiths
Arnold Russell Karlsen
Kenneth F. Wagner
Supervisor Attends National Strategy For Preparedness Meeting
Supervisor Peter A. McMahon (left) attended a meeting in a White House office March 1, 2002 with key leaders of the Law Enforcement, Fire Service, Emergency Preparedness Officials, Municipal Officials and representatives of the Office of Homeland Security, Department of Justice and Federal Emergency Management Agency. Discussions on a national strategy for preparedness were being held. The end result will be a national conference at the end of April when Supervisor McMahon will be one of the facilitators.
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
Date Monday, MARCH 18, 2002 - 6:30 P.M.
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
Rec. Storage Building Study Argued
By Joelle Logue
Though $4000 was approved (3-2) for Scaffidi and Moore Architects to provide a preliminary study for the proposed Veterans Park Maintenance Building, there were several voices objecting to the cost. Councilman Dan Robillard said the study cost too much for the type of building needed. Asserting that the percentage comparison between the study and the actual cost to build didn't make sense, Robillard said a lot of the work could be done by town engineers. Speaking from the floor, builder John Tripi Jr. agreed and accused the board of losing sight of how to spend money economically. He added that the board should be telling the architects what kind of building was wanted and that the study could be done for much less.
Councilman Kevin Rustowicz, who also voted against the recreation storage building study, proposed that the carpeting for Reality Café, on the agenda since last November, be approved and the bid awarded to Handyman Service at a cost of $4611. Rustowicz argued that if the board could afford a $4000 study for a recreation building, it should be able to approve the carpeting that had become a safety issue and a priority. Supervisor Peter McMahon explained that the carpet request had been tabled because there had been a freeze on items over $500 but since the town used none of its fund balance last year, the money was now available. Councilwoman Mary Cooke agreed and the carpet was unanimously approved.
In other business, the board:
Town Acts on Road and Water System Projects
By Joelle Logue
Three public hearings, that drew no comment, were held Monday on road resurfacing and water system projects in the town. Following the hearings, the town board referred to Bond Counsel a resolution authorizing the replacement and reconstruction of a water line on West Oakfield Road and a portion of East Oakfield Road and the issuance of serial bonds not to exceed $390,000 to finance the project. Also referred to Bond Counsel was the resurfacing of a portion of West Oakfield with the issuance of serial bonds not to exceed $78,000, and the resurfacing of roads in the duplex area by issuing bonds not to exceed $64,000.
. The town board also referred to Bond Counsel the repairing, replacing and/or lining of deteriorated areas of the sanitary sewers on Love, Red Jacket and Hennepin roads as well as manhole repairs in the same areas. This work is necessary to maintain structural integrity and reduce extraneous flows. Estimated cost is $647,000.
Relatedly the supervisor was authorized to sign an application to the NYS Environmental Facilities Corp. for a low interest loan through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. This loan would be used for the proposed upgrades at the Wastewater Treatment Plant and the I&I Corrections proposed in the Red Jacket, Hennepin and Love Road sanitary sewer systems. Niagara Estates Subdivision, Phase 3, got approval for a public improvement permit to construct approximately 280 lineal feet of 12-inch RCP storm sewer along with receivers
Approval of a revised site plan for River Oaks Marina at 101 Whitehaven Road was tabled pending resolution of code enforcement issues that involve boats stored where they are not supposed to be and inappropriate plumbing and sewer hook-ups.
Final plat approval was given to John Stickl for Spicer Creek Townhouses, Phase 2, Parch "C."
Vacant land belonging to Dan Stedman on the east side of East River Road and the corner of Cox Road was approved for rezoning from R-1B to B-2 as it will be used by the adjoining marina. In addition, 1475 Cox Road was rezoned from R-1B to B-2 for inside boat storage and service.
A revised site plan was waived for Anchor Marine in its rebuilding of a storage building at 1501 Ferry Road that had collapsed under snow last December. Rebuilding, however, will still be subject to the usual Board of Architectural Review and State Code review requirements.
A special use renewal for Suzanne Dewey at 2881 Fix Road for keeping of five horses was returned as it had expired. Dewey will have to apply again.
Several projects were referred to the Planning Board:
Town Added to List of Children's Hospital Supporters
By Joelle Logue
Island residents Traci and Peter Terlecky spoke passionately about Children's Hospital during Monday night's town board meeting and urged the town to give its formal support in helping to maintain the position of the hospital in the Western New York community. Speaking about their own experience with physicians and other staff during the birth and subsequent death of their son, they praised the level of expertise and caring, and claim that would be lost if Children's was merged into the High Street medical corridor. The Terleckys feel that many talented physicians and nurses would leave the area if Children's Hospital were to close.
Also entered into the record were two letters of support for keeping Children's Hospital on Bryant Street from Nadine DiStefano and Natalie Polisano who shared their personal experience regarding the successful lifesaving efforts by Children's Hospital physicians for Aviya DiStefano.
In response to the above, a resolution was unanimously adopted by the town urging the Board of Directors of Kaleida Health system to continue to develop a financial plan that would keep Children's Hospital as a full service facility. In addition, the resolution called for the board to give full and complete consideration in maintaining a free standing facility.
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP AGENDA:
Date Monday, March 4th, 2002 - 6:30 P.M.
I MOTION FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION
Update on Tax Certiorari Cases
Review on Troy & Banks Correspondence
Inter-Municipal Agreement - Assessor
II AGENDA REVIEW
Special Use Renewal
III NEW ITEMS
2002 Capital Budget - Set Meeting Highway Fund
Board of Elections - Additional Invoice
Veterans Park Tree Project
Sesquicentennial Ad
Veterans Park Tree Project
Revised Plumbing Ordinance - Action?
Keep WNY Beautiful - Participation
Hamlet Designation Zoning Ordinance (H or B3)
Chapter #529 Laws of 2001 NYS
Sign Ordinance - Enforcement
CDL Testing Policy
2002 Fleet Changes
Sesquicentennial Events
Town Common Use
Ararat Stone
Alert Grand Island
Advisory Board Vacancies - Interviews?
Employee Evaluation Form - Review Draft
Water Department Meter Reading Policy
Holiday Banners
Mining - Bonds for Damage
Citizen Patrol - Concept
Town Wide Fire Extinguisher - Inspection/Recharge
Telephone Service
IV CONTINUING ITEMS
Small Business Incubator
Pesticide Use - Town Property
Update Sign Ordinance
DeGlopper Park Honor Roll Update
Town Hall Signs
Drainage
V ROUNDTABLE
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 4 Date: MARCH 4, 2002
INVOCATION: Trinity United Methodist Church
PLEDGE: Councilwoman Cooke
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of Monday, February 4, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Resurfacing of Duplex Area
2. Water System Improvements for West Oakfield and a Portion of East Oakfield
3. Resurfacing of West Oakfield in Connection with Water System Improvements
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Erie County Department of Environment & Planning - Storm Water Phase II Regional Coalition Meeting
2. Comp Alliance Acknowledgement Letter
3. Golden Age Center - Usage of Facilities and Vehicles for February 2002
4. Youth Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: January 10, 2002
5. Building Permits - January 2002
6. Planning Board - Minutes of Meeting: January 14, 2002 7. Adelphia Cable - Winter Edition of "Adelphia Connection"
8. Board of Architectural Review - Minutes of Meeting: January 14, 2002
9. County Environment & Planning - Rescheduled SEQR Meeting 10. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meetings: January 3rd & February 7th, 2002
11. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: January 8, 2002
12. Health Care Advocate Course
13. County Comptroller - Sales Tax Distribution for February 2002
14. Erie County Sheriff Gallivan - Local Government Liaison Program
15. County Comptroller - Dog Tax Refund for 2001
COMMUNICATIONS – TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Chamber of Commerce - "Island Treasures Festival, Craft & Flea Market"
2. Erie County Youth Agreement Contract
3. Authorization for Agreement of P.I.L.O.T. for the Heritage Christian Home
4. 2001 Budget Transfers
COUNCILPERSONS COOKE, CRAWFORD, ROBILLARD
5. Children’s Hospital Resolution
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Grand Island Central School District - Request to Borrow Voting Machines
2. Postmaster Reply to Staley Road Resident Request
PLANNING BOARD
3. Daniel Stedman 1475 Cox Road - Rezoning R-1B to B-2 for Boat Storage and Service
4. Daniel Stedman Vacant Land on East Side of East River and the Corner of Cox Road - Rezoning R-1B to B-2 to be Used by Adjoining Marina
5. River Oaks Marina 101 Whitehaven Road - Revised Site Plan
6. M. Mirza 2257-2261 Grand Island Boulevard - Revised Site Plan/Proposed Coin Operated Laundry
BUILDING INSPECTOR DOUGLAS LEARMAN
7. Request to Waive Site Plan Requirement for Anchor Marine 1501 Ferry Road
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
8. P.I.P. Permit Drainage Improvements for Niagara River Estates Subdivision Phase III
9. Proposed Building Expansion - American Pharmaceutical Partners Inc. 3159 Staley Road
10. Authorize Preliminary Study-Veterans Park Maintenance Building
11. Authorize Application to NYS Environmental Facilities Corporation 12. Award Traffic Signal Inspection and Emergency Service Contract
13. WWTP & I & I Improvements - Engineers Map, Plan & Report
14. Withdrawal of Application for Laundromat at 2261 Grand Island Boulevard
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
BILL TORCHIA
1. Exception to Subdivision Regulations - West of 2940 Bedell Road
TERRY MANNING
2. Exception to Subdivision Regulations on Meadow Lane Extension
NADINE DISTEFANO & NATALIE PALISANO
3. Request for Resolution in Support of Keeping Children’s Hospital on Bryant Street
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Special Use Permit for Suzanne Dewey 2881 Fix Road for Keeping of Five Horses
2. Appointment to Cable Committee
3. Adopt Fee Schedule
4. Carpet for Reality Cafe
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Richard W. McNamee
Ruthann W. Jones
Howard K. Benns
Travis W. Hennigar
James B. Welfare
Michael D. Braun, Sr.
Jena Grace McGuire
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
MONDAY, MARCH 4, 2002
6:30 P.M.
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
Town of Grand Island
Outreach Worker - Part Time
The Town of Grand Island is seeking qualified applicants for the part time position of Outreach Worker. Duties include client contact, performing intake and referral, case management, parenting programs, planning community events and youth center responsibilities. The candidate must be a dependable, motivated, self-starting, responsible individual with a four-year degree in social work, psychology or human services. Two years experience with a two-year degree may be substituted for the Bachelor's degree. This is a nineteen-hour per week position. Starting pay is $10.80/hr. Some evening and weekend work is part of the job. Submit a letter of interest including qualifications and experience to:
2255 Baseline Road
Grand Island, NY 14072
Letters received prior to March 15th, 2002 will be considered.
Advisory Board Openings
Town of Grand Island
The Town of Grand Island has vacancies on the following advisory boards in 2002:
Cable TV Committee
Traffic Safety Advisory Board
Anyone interested in being considered for appointment to a board should submit a letter of interest to:
Town Hall, 2255 Baseline Road
Youth Advisory Board Presents Brochure
Grand Island Youth Advisory Board Chairman Bob Marinucci presented the board's new brochure at the February 4, 2002 town board meeting. Their mission and goals follow:
Mission: "To support and enrich the physical, emotional and social well being of youth throughout the community."
Goals: Working collaboratively with youth, town government and community groups to:
Develop a comprehensive plan that promotes the use of existing programs and facilities.
Develop new programs to meet the diverse needs of the youth on Grand Island.
The Advisory Board was officially established in early 2000 and consists of 15 community members including five Grand Island youth between the ages of 14 and 19. It is mentioned in the brochure the "hope to facilitate improved coordination, cooperation, and engagement among the community youth-related organizations and town government. Residents interested in becoming a member are asked to contact Bob Marinucci, Chairman, at youthadvisory@grand-island.ny.us.
Youth Advisory Page
Town Board Report - Feb. 4, 2002
Bob Marinucci, Chairman of the Grand Island Youth Advisory Board, made a presentation on its behalf to begin Monday night's Town Board Meeting. The Youth Board mission statement and goals were presented and a just completed brochure was introduced by Marinucci.
Adelphia Cable's rate increase for 2002 was referred to the Cable Committee and a workshop will be scheduled to address citizens' concerns. Adelphia Cable General Manager Tom Haywood is being asked to address the workshop.
The Community Development Block Grant received for the Duplex re-paving project, will cover $90,000 of the estimated $155,000 cost. The additional $65,000 cost will be on a separate bond.
The Town Board deferred to the planning board a revised site plan for River Oaks Marina, and for a coin operated laundry to be located at 2257-2261 Grand Island Blvd. A water contract and waste water contract in Beaver Island State Park were approved by the Town Board. Items scheduled for a March 4 public hearing are water systems improvements and the resurfacing of West Oakfield and a portion of East Oakfield roads.
In other business, the board:
-Denied Robert Weaver's request for an entrance sign at the Island Meadows subdivision.
-Accepted with regret Paul Leuchner's resignation from the Traffic Safety Advisory Board and agreed to advertise for replacement of that seat and a seat on the Cable Committee.
-Appointed Nolan Allen to the Planning Board for a six-year term. At the end of the meeting, Frank Burkhart of Ransom Road, who held the Planning Board seat for a three-month period, spoke out on the planning board appointment and what he referred to as "the predisposition of the Town Board to political agendas."
Town Board members thanked the residents of Grand Island, the Town employees and the Grand Island Fire Company for coming together and helping each other through the ice storm last week.
The next Town Board Workshop is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Wednesday, February 6. The next Town Board meeting is sheduled for March 4th.
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2002
3:00 P.M.
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
RE: PROPOSED 2002 PROJECTS – CAPITAL PLAN
TOWN BOARD AGENDA
Date MONDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2002 - 6:30 P.M.
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 3 Date: FEBRUARY 4, 2002
THE YOUTH BOARD WILL MAKE A PRESENTATION TO THE TOWN BOARD AT 7:45 P.M. IN THE COURTROOM PRECEDING THE TOWN BOARD MEETING
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: St. Stephen’s Roman Catholic Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Robillard
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of Tuesday, January 22, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE
CONSENT AGENDA
1. NorthEast-Southtowns Solid Waste Management Board - Notice of Public Meetings
2. Board of Architectural Review - Minutes of Meeting: December 4, 2001
3. State of New York Public Service Commission - Ruling Extending Deadlines
4. Youth Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: November 29, 2001
5. Library Board of Trustees - Minutes of Meeting: December 8, 2001
6. Safety Committee - Minutes of Meeting: November 28, 2001
7. County Comptroller - Sales Tax Revenue for January 2002
8. NYSDEC - Proposed Clay Mine/Pond Construction at 2111 Stony Point Road
9. NYS Office of Real Property Service - Status of Activities in Erie County
10. Third Annual "Smart Growth Conference" Sponsored by Audubon New York
COMMUNICATIONS – TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Adelphia Cable - Rate Increase for 2002
2. Community Development Block Grant - Duplex Re-paving Project
COUNCILMAN ROBILLARD
3. Resolution - Business Conduct for Town Employees
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
1. Engineers Map, Plan & Report for Duplex Area Resurfacing
2. Revised Site Plan for River Oaks Marina
3. Revised Site Plan 2257-2261 Grand Island Blvd. - Coin Operated Laundry
TOWN COUNSEL PETER GODFREY
4. Beaver State Park - Water Contract
5. Set Public Hearing - Resurfacing of Duplex Area
6. Set Public Hearing - Water Systems Improvements for West Oakfield and a Portion of East Oakfield Road
7. Set Public Hearing - Resurfacing of West Oakfield and a Portion of East Oakfield Road
in Connection with Water System Improvements
YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD
8. Youth Board Dues
9. Accept Youth Board Mission and Goals Statement
BUILDING INSPECTOR DOUGLAS LEARMAN
10. Request for Site Plan Waiver - Channel 17 Site at 871 Whitehaven Road
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
ROBERT MESMER
1. Planning Board Member Application
ROBERT WEAVER
2. Entrance Sign Request for Island Meadows
PAUL LEUCHNER
3. Resignation from Traffic Safety Advisory Board
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Special Use Renewal: Suzanne Dewey 2881 Fix Road for Keeping of Five Horses
2. Appointment to Planning Board
3. Appointment to Cable Committee
4. Adopt Fee Schedule
5. Carpet for Reality Cafe
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Laura T. (Wichlacz) Amann
Kenvin Moreau
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
Date MONDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2002 - 6:30 P.M.
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
Duplex Paving Grant Selected
"We're very pleased that our Duplex area paving project was selected for inclusion in the 2002 Community Development Block Grant program," Supervisor Peter A. McMahon said in a press release this week. "This $90,000 will help us complete a sewer rehabilitation and repaving project which started last year," he said.
The Town Board unanimously approved the application last year following a public hearing seeking input on potential projects.
Paving work is expected to be completed this summer.
Town of Grand Island
Outreach Worker - Part Time
The Town of Grand Island is seeking qualified applicants for the part time position of Outreach Worker. Duties include client contact, performing intake and referral, case management, parenting programs, planning community events and youth center responsibilities. The candidate must be a dependable, motivated, self-starting, responsible individual with a four-year degree in social work, psychology or human services. Two years experience with a two-year degree may be substituted for the Bachelor's degree. This is a fifteen-hour per week position. Starting pay is $10.80/hr. Some evening and weekend work is part of the job. Submit a letter of interest including qualifications and experience to:
2255 Baseline Road
Grand Island, NY 14072
Letters received prior to February 15th, 2002 will be considered.
Sewer Rents Set For 2002
By Joelle Logue
A public comment on sewer rents drew no public comment until after the
board approved $3.70 per 1000 gallons of water usage. Hank Carroll, asking
if it was more than last year, said he thought there had to be a better way
to assess water costs. Councilwoman Mary Cooke said other town's include
the assessment in the property taxes and she didn't feel that was any
better. Last year's rate was $3.42 which indicates a .28 cent increase.
Two other public hearings on requests from Daniel Stedman of Cox Road were
referred to the Planning Board. No one spoke in opposition to rezone from
R-1B to B-2 in order to provide for a boat storage facility and to rezone
vacant land on the east side of East River Road and the corner of Cox Road
from R-1B to B-2 to be used by the adjoining marina.
A special use renewal for Suzanne Dewey of Fix Road to keep five horses on
21 acres was tabled so the zoning officer could check on a number of other
animals apparently located there.
The town board approved a rezoning request for a mining overlay at Majestic
Woods Development on the east side of Stony Point Road to provide for
construction of a lake greater than 1/3 of an acre, and gave site plan
approval for Lyle Dinsmore, 1920 Baseline Road, to construct a new office
and storage building. The following conditions for the latter have to be
met, however: paved visitor parking, roof drainage, screening, variance for
front yard parking, special use permit for outside storage.
Three resolutions were adopted for town construction projects -
replacement, repair and/or lining of various sections of 8 and 10-inch
sanitary sewer in the Red Jacket, Hennepin roads area; replacement of one
grit removal system with a PISTA swirl concentrator and replacement and
upgrading of the Return Activated Sludge Pumps and related piping, along
with replacement of two Waste Sludge Pumps at the Wastewater Plant; and
waterline reconstruction on West Oakfield and a portion of East Oakfield.
The board also approved the preparation of bond resolutions to complete the
waterline reconstruction on West Oakfield at an estimated #390,000 and to
complete road resurfacing of West Oakfield at an estimated $78,000.
In other business, the board:
- Referred to the town attorney and Traffic Safety Advisory Board a request
from the highway superintendent to install a stop sign at the northwest
corner of Jamestown and Sherman which would make the intersection a four-way stop.
- Accepted the resignation of Sue Novits as Outreach Worker for the town
and agreed to advertise for a replacement. Applications will be taken until
February 15, 2002. Novits left the position to become the new GIFTS Coordinator for the town.
- Referred for review to the town attorney and highway superintendent
proposed easements for use of property at 45 Edgewater Drive.
- Reaffirmed its commitment to e-Government by agreeing to establish a
committee to explore credit card transactions online and by authorizing the
supervisor to submit a Local Government Records Management Improvement Fund
grant application to the NYS Archives in the amount not to exceed $15,000.
- Referred to the Recreation Director an application for submission to
participate in the Erie County Conservation Tree & Shrub Seedling Program.
- Appointed Marian Fabiano for a five-year term on the Zoning Board of
Appeals and tabled a Planning Board appointment until February 4.
Mesmer Airstrip Readies For Take Off
By Joelle Logue
Prior to approving (a 4-1 vote) the special use permit to allow Robert Mesmer
to build an airstrip on a 16-acre site at 2548 Love Road, the town board
interrupted Tuesday's meeting for a 30 minute executive session to consider
public comment given prior to the meeting on the subject. While a few
residents spoke in favor of the airstrip, most were vehemently against the
project on safety grounds.
Kristine Lavango presented 25 postcards from residents on Love Road who
indicated their opposition to the airstrip and an additional 60 signatures
to add to the 181 already submitted. She also cited statistics for January
of this year that revealed 25 of 42 crashes were during take off and
landing. As for Piper planes, 14 of 18 accidents occurred during take off
and landing. Joseph Dowd, Gerald Ast, Frances Havens and Jeannette Judd
also objected for safety reasons.
Jan Squire questioned Mesmer's health and wellness issues but Robert
Copeland, a pilot himself, detailed the rigorous tests (flight knowledge
and physical wellness) needed to maintain a pilot's license.
An extensive statement read by Michael Judd focused on the errors and
omissions in the Environmental Impact Statement for the airstrip and called
the project "an ongoing subsidy to one individual." He threatened further
action by the citizens if the board approved the project.
Bob Ginsburg said he moved to Grand Island from Cheektowaga to get away
from airplane noise, but a few spoke in support of Mesmer. Kelly Porter
said planes flew over the Island every day and pointed to the fact there is
a major Air Show at the Niagara Falls Air Base every summer. Gail Click
whose land is next to Mesmer's cited his good character and the fact he
would not put his own family in danger. She added that if everyone was
worried about safety they wouldn't drive cars.
Strangely, it was the statistics on airplane crashes provided by the
opposition that convinced Supervisor Peter McMahon that safety was not an
issue. While there were more accidents attributed to take offs and
landings, he said there were very few injuries as a result of them.
Councilman Kevin Rustowicz, casting the one nay vote, said that though the
process was followed correctly he could not vote for the airstrip because
he believed it was not in the best interest of Grand Island. To him, that was the bottom line and it came down to a judgment call.
Following the decision, Mike Torrance accused the board of not listening to
the people, and Kim Tetreault said they made their decision because they
were afraid of being sued by Mesmer.
Councilwoman Mary Cooke, emphatic in stating she was not afraid of any
lawsuit, said what town board attendees see at the meetings is only a small
part of what goes into making a decision as important as this. She cited
the fact that the special use was allowable under the present code, a
proper process was followed and that Mesmer had met all requirements. She
also mentioned that two previous requests for airstrips on Grand Island had
been turned down because they did not meet requirements.
The town board's special use approval is only one hurdle in the long road
to Mesmer's first take-off. The air strip's application, by law, is
referred to the NYS Department of Transportation for approval and
conditions. In addition, special conditions were cited before the special
use permit is issued beyond NYSDOT approval. Included is that the airstrip
can never be paved, no commercial use of the facility is allowed and no
storage of airplane fuel is permitted on site. All requirements of the
noise ordinance shall be met during the construction phase. The airstrip
will be for daylight use only, air traffic operated to minimize noise
particularly during weekends and over Emmanuel Church. Two towers are to be
obstruction marked and lighted, at applicant's expense if necessary.
Mesmer will have to obtain site plan approval and, prior to construction,
will have to prepare, plan and construct a breeding habitat for the
Blue-Spotted Salamander.
Following the meeting, Mesmer was asked if he had expected the outcome to
be in his favor. He said he wasn't sure but was glad the airstrip was
approved. When asked about the concern of his neighbors, he said "in the
long run, there will be no problem at all."
Town Officially Announces Sesquicentennial Year
Supervisor McMahon is shown presenting the proclamation to Sesqui Chair Michael Schneider. Also shown are (left) Councilmembers Dan Robillard and Kevin Rustowicz, Sesquicentennial Secretary Karen Vanthoff, Vice President James R. Sharpe, Committee members Phyllis Martin, Peggy McNulty, Town Historian Teddy Linenfelser and Sonja Hill, and Councilmember Mary Cooke. Standing in the back are Sesqui Treasurer Chuck Lawrence, Councilmember Richard Crawford and Sesqui Committee member Henry Carroll.
Fred Claus photo
By Joelle Logue
In a proclamation presented to the Sesquicentennial Committee at Tuesday's
town board meeting, members of the Town Board designated 2002 as its
sesquicentennial year and encouraged every citizen and business to support
and enjoy sesquicentennial celebration events.
Grand Island became separated from the Town of Tonawanda October 19, 1852
at which time it organized as an independent township formally recognized
by the State of New York. It celebrated a centennial in 1952 and many
activities are planned for its 150th birthday as well. Check this website
for a complete calendar.
2002 Town/County Tax Bills Mailed
Town Clerk Nancy J. Samrany announced that the 2002 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. The office will be open Saturday, February 9, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Checks should be made payable to Town Clerk. The last day to pay without penalty is February 15. Envelopes must show a legible postmark of February 15 to be accepted on time. Taxpayers should call the office for correct amounts for payments made February 16 and later. Personal checks are not accepted after June 15 and payments can be made until June 28, 2002. After this date, payments must be sent to the County.
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 2 Date: JANUARY 22, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: New Apostolic Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Rustowicz
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
PROCLAMATION:
GRAND ISLAND SESQUICENTENNIAL
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of January 7, 2002
Special Town Board Meeting of January 8, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. Rezoning Application - Daniel Stedman for 1475 Cox Road from R-1B to B-2 for Inside Boat Storage and Service
2. Rezoning Application - Daniel Stedman 330 East River for Vacant Land Located on the East Side of East River Road and the Corner of Cox Road from R-1B to B-2 to be Used by Adjoining Marina
3. Resolution to Set Sewer Rents for the year 2002
CONSENT AGENDA
1. State Senator Rath - Reply to Town Board Resolution re Seneca Land Claim Compact Agreement
2. Planning Board - Minutes of Meeting: December 10, 2001
3. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: December 10, 2001
4. Building Permits - December 2001
5. State Comptroller - Budgetary Comparison Information
6. Erie County Health Department - Restamped Map Cover for Island Meadows Subdivision
7. Workshops for Municipal Officials (Planning& Zoning Boards & Code Enforcement)
8. Erie County Department of Environment & Planning - Quarterly Report 10/1 -12/30/01
9. Erie County Department of Environment & Planning - Public Review of Draft 2002 Erie County Annual Action Plan Report
10. Animal Control Statistics
11. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meetings: 12/06/01 & 1/03/02
12. Erie County Sheriff Gallivan - Deputy Insalaco Annual Youth Award
13. Public Service Commission - Procedural Ruling re Niagara Mohawk
14. Golden Age Center - Usage of Facilities for December 2001
COMMUNICATIONS – TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Monthly Report - December 2001
2. Workman’s Compensation for 2002
3. E-Government Resolutions
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewal: Suzanne Dewey 2881 Fix Road - Keep Horses Five (5) on 21 Acres
2. Erie County Soil & Water Conservation District’s Tree & Shrub Seedling Program
PLANNING BOARD
3. Majestic Woods Development, L.L.C. East Side of Stony Point Road - Proposed Majestic Woods Subdivision - Rezone R-1A to M/E
4. Lyle Dinsmore 1920 Baseline Site Plan Approval for Construction of a New Office & Storage Building
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DLUGOKINSKI
5. New Stop Sign
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
6. Type Two (2) Action for Various Construction Projects
7. West Oakfield Waterline Reconstruction
RECREATION DIRECTOR LINDA TUFILLARO
8. Facility Use Permits
ENRICHMENT & REFERRAL CENTER
9. Resignation of Sue Novits as Outreach Worker
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
VITO & KRISTINE LAVANGO
1. Letter of Opposition to Mesmer Airstrip
ROBERT WESTFALL
2. Proposed Easements for Use of Property at 45 Edgewater
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Appointment - Zoning Board of Appeals
2. Appointment - Planning Board
3. Appointment - Cable TV Committee
4. Adopt Fee Schedule With Changes
5. Special Use Permit - Mesmer 2548 Love Road Private Airport R-1A Zoning
6. Carpet for Reality Café
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Erwin F. Schulz
Marie L. Moreland
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
Date MONDAY, JANUARY 22, 2002 - 6:30 P.M.
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
Date MONDAY, JANUARY 28, 2002 - 7:30 P.M.
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
RE: REORGANIZATION
Decision On Mesmer Airstrip Delayed
By Joelle Logue
At the beginning the Town Board meeting Monday, January 7, 2002 Supervisor Peter McMahon announced there would be no decision on the Mesmer airstrip until January 22. Despite that, several residents spoke against the project during the public comment period prior to the meeting.
Kristine Lavango presented research on small a research on small aircraft crashes citing 2678 Cessna accidents between 1998 and 2000. She also had 115 names on a petition protesting the project bringing the total names submitted to 181. Safety issues were on the minds of most who spoke especially in light of the two single engine crashes that took place over the weekend, one in Tampa and one on the west coast.
Michael Judd called Mesmer's proposal a "taxpayer subsidy for one individual's hobby," and criticized a letter by Robert G. Copeland in support of the airstrip.
The Town Board approved two special use renewals - one for Sprint Sites USA for a Communication Tower at 3078 Staley and another for Sprint Sites USA for a Communication Tower at 318 Baseline Road (at the water plant).
Payment for additional engineer services required for the review of traffic issues for the proposed Wilson Farms project on Ransom Road was approved contingent that payment be reimbursed to the town by Parkland Enterprises and Wilson Farms. Also adopted was an agreement to spend $339,459 in highway funds for general repair upon 71.61 miles of town highways including sluices, culverts and bridges.
Referred to the Planning Board was a site plan by L.D.C. Construction Inc. for a new office and storage building at 1920 Baseline Road.
The Town Board acknowledged a letter of resignation from Barbara Dzialak, a part-time attendant at Reality Café effective January 6, 2002, but tabled a request to advertise for a replacement pending town board review.
Supervisor, Town Board Appoint
By Joelle Logue
The following appointments were made during the reorganization meeting of the town of Grand Island Monday (Jan. 7, 2002). Supervisor Peter A. McMahon named the following committee heads:
- Special Districts , Peter McMahon; Audit Committee, Mary Cooke and Kevin Rustowicz; Sidewalk & Bikepath Committee, Rustowicz; Economic Development, Michael Heftka; Historic Preservation Committee, Cooke.
- Cooke was named liaison to the Environmental Conservation Board and Human Rights Commission; Rustowicz to Community Enrichment Council, Cable TV and Youth Board; Dick Crawford to Traffic Safety Advisory Board, Library Trustees, Personnel and Economic Development; Dan Robillard to Architectural Review Board and Parks & Recreation Board; McMahon to Personnel and Planning Board.
- Town Clerk Nancy Samrany appointed the following as full time deputy clerks: Margaret Butler, Betty Lantz and Robin Swedish. Also Swedish as deputy registrar with Lantz and Butler as sub-registrars.
- Highway Superintendent Ray Dlugokinski reappointed Robert V. Fraser as deputy highway superintendent.
- Douglas Learman was reappointed Building Inspector and Dave Salt, Plumbing Inspector although Mary Cooke indicated that code enforcement was in the process of being reevalutated.
Advisory Board Appointments
- John Butler to Board of Architectural Review for a five year term.
- Mary Sommer as Human Rights Chairperson
- Diana Schwartz as Library Trustee for a five year term.
- Lawrence Klock to the Parks & Recreation Board for a five-year term.
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- Dorothy Bitner, Anna Ehlert and Bradford Masters Jr. to Traffic Safety Advisory Board for a three-year term.
- Thomas Butler, Harry Carter, Robert Cleveland, Danielle Gworek, Betty Harris, Carmen Pena-Denk, and Jan Squire for one-year terms on the Community Enrichment Council.
- Joanne Carr and Dorothy Westhafer to the Commission for the Environment for five-year terms.
- Robert Marinucci, Mike Sendlbeck, Darlene Sprague and Harry Carter to the Youth Advisory Board.
- Appointments to the Zoning Board of Appeals, Planning Board and Cable TV Committee were tabled until the January 22 meeting. In the case of Cable TV there were no candidates.
Resolutions Pass
For Assessing Special Districts
By Joelle Logue
As part of the reorganization meeting January 7, 2002, resolutions were passed establishing methods for assessment in consolidated sewer districts, consolidated water district and town lighting districts.
It was determined that 100 percent of all net operation and maintenance costs and 10 percent of capital costs would be apportioned to the water consumption of each of the properties or parcels of land within the town sewer districts and recovered as sewer rent. Ninety percent of capital costs will be apportioned against the assessed land valuation of each of the properties and or parcels within the sewer districts. In addition, where there is an accessible line frontage, an annual tax of 80 cents per front foot will be levied in the area formerly known as Sewer District 4. Lateral sewer lines installed by real property developers will not incur front foot charges. County charges to be determined will also apply in former Sewer District 4 or those connected in the East River lateral.
A user, property or parcel that fronts or abuts a sewer line or is connected or required to be connected to a public sewer line, pays all wastewater treatment plant and sewer district lines and appurtenance costs assigned to the operation and maintenance. The user also pays for capital construction costs of the wastewater treatment plant facilities.
A non-user, property or parcel not fronting or abutting a public sewer line or where a sewer is not immediately available, will pay 90 percent of capital construction of costs for wastewater treatment plant facilities based upon land value.
In assessing costs in consolidated water districts, it was approved that all net operation and maintenance costs and all net capital costs would be apportioned against the assessed land valuation of each of the properties or parcels of land within the district.
In the case of lighting districts, all costs would be apportioned against the properties in all districts in the town based upon the frontage of said property.
Town To Observe
The Following 2002 Holidays
By Joelle Logue
All town offices will be closed in observance of the following holidays, as set forth in the various union bargaining units: Martin Luther King Day (Monday, Jan. 21), President's Day (Monday, Feb. 18), Good Friday (1/2 day Friday, March 29), Memorial Day (Monday, May 27), Independence Day (Thursday, July 4), Labor Day (Monday, Sept. 2), Columbus Day (Monday, Oct. 14), Veterans Day (Monday, Nov. 11), Thanksgiving and day after (Thursday & Friday, Nov. 28-29), Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 24-25), New Year's Eve (1/2 day Tuesday, Dec. 31), New Year's Day (Wednesday, Jan. 1).
Town Reorganizes For 2002
Crawford Named Deputy Supervisor
By Joelle Logue
Supervisor Peter McMahon reached across party lines in picking his deputy supervisor during the town's reorganization meeting held Monday, January 7, 2002. Chosen was Republican Dick Crawford Jr., a two term council member. McMahon also welcomed Dan Robillard to the board that is now 3-2 Republican after Democrat Mike Heftka failed to win a re-election bid. McMahon asked for and was granted a 30-day extension for filing the Supervisor's Financial Report for the fiscal year 1999. He also re-appointed Diane Nesbitt as his secretary for the new year.
The town board also took action on the following:
- Set mileage at 36.5 cents per mile for town officials performing duties for the town in 2002.
- Authorized attendance 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.
- Renewed the town's membership in the Association of Erie County Governments.
- Set petty cash funds as follows - town clerk ($700), sewer and water ($100), town justices ($100), highway dept. ($100), recreation dept. ($100).
- Set town clerk's office hours as 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays except for July and August when the hours will be 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
- Set bond amounts for town personnel - supervisor ($250,000), town clerk ($250,000), deputy town clerks ($250,000), blanket bond for each other bonded employee ($5000).
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- 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 liaison to and police commissioner of 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 following a failed resolution by Kevin Rustowicz to establish a process of selection based on qualifications and criteria.
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 1 Date: JANUARY 7, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: Bible Presbyterian Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Crawford
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of December 17, 2001
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
COMMUNICATIONS - REORGANIZATION MEETING:
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. 30-Day Extension Supervisor’s Report
2. Deputy Supervisor
3. Mileage
4. Assessment Formulas Reaffirmed
5. Membership - Association of Towns
6. Authorization - Association of Towns Meeting
7. Authorization - Membership Association of Erie County Governments
8. Authorization - Petty Cash Funds
9. Rules and Procedures
10. Town Clerk’s Office Hours
11. Bonding - Town Personnel
12. Legal Holidays
13. Town Newspaper Designated
14. Bank Depositories Designated
15. Audit Counselors Designated
16. Facsimile Signature of Supervisor
17. Town Board Meeting Nights Designated
18. Date to Audit Bills
19. Payroll Dates
20. Supervisor’s Appointments & Committees
21. Town Clerk’s Appointments
22. Highway Superintendent’s Appointments
23. Registrar’s Appointments
24. Budget Officer Designated
25. Salaries Adopted
26. Appointment - Board of Architectural Review
27. Appointments - Zoning Board of Appeals
28. Appointment - Human Rights Chairman
29. Appointment - Library Trustee
30. Appointment - Parks & Recreation Advisory Board
31. Appointment - Planning Board
32. Appointment - Planning Board Chairman
33. Appointment - Traffic Safety Board
34. Appointment - Community Enrichment Council 35. Appointment - Cable TV Committee
36. Appointments - Environmental Conservation
37. Appointments - Youth Board
38. Building Department Reappointments
39. Appointment - Commissioner of Police
40. Justice Court - Monthly Payment to New York State
41. Membership to Government Financial Officers Association
42. Adopt Fee Schedule/with Changes
43. Legal Representation for the Town of Grand Island
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Erie County Department of Youth Services- 2001 Program Annual Reports
2. DEC - Application of River Oaks Golf Course Inc - Stream Disturbance & Clean Water
Act Water Quality Certification
3. NYS Office of Real Property - Determination of State Aid for Assessment Improvements
4. Niagara Mohawk - Community Renaissance Awards of 2001
5. Erie County Division of Budget, Management & Finance - Board of Assessment Review
(BAR) Procedure for Newly Appointed or Reappointed Members
6. Office of State Comptroller - Average Estimate Costs - Special Improvement Districts
7. Erie County Legislature - Distribution of Mortgage Tax to Town of Grand Island
8. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meeting: December 6, 2001
9. H.E.A.P. Outreach Sites and Dates
10. DEC Division of Solid & Hazardous Materials - Changes to Regulations of Organic Waste
11. Reality Café Attendance Report
12. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: November 13, 2001
13. NYSDOT - Designation of Restricted Highway
14. Zoning Officer - Activity Report for 2001
15. Erie County Comptroller - Sales Tax Report for December 2001
16. Golden Age Center - Usage of Vehicles for December 2001
17. Memorial Library Board of Trustees - Minutes of Meeting: October 13, 2001
18. City of Buffalo Comptroller - Regionalism Proposal
19. United States Tennis Association/Eastern - Certificate of Recognition
20. U.S. Bankruptcy Court - Lodgian, Inc., et al., v Debtors
21. United Way 2001-2002 Community School Collaboration Fund
22. Erie County Department of Youth Services - 2001 Program Annual Reports
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
COUNCILMAN RUSTOWICZ
1. Request For Qualifications for Appointment of the Attorney for the Town
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewals:
A. Sprint Sites U.S.A. for Communication Tower at 3078 Staley Road
B. Sprint Sites U.S.A. for Communication Tower at 318 Baseline Road/Water Plant
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
2. Authorize Additional Engineer Services
3. Site Plan Approval - Dinsmore 1920 Baseline Road for Construction of a New Office and Storage Building
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DGULOKINSKI
4. Agreement to Spend Town Highway Funds
REALITY CAFÉ
5. Resignation of Employee and Request to Advertise
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
ROBERT G. COPELAND
1. Comments on the Mesmer Airport Request and the Petition Against It
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Special Use Permit - Robert Mesmer 2548 Love Road Private Airport R1A Zoning
2. Town Accountant Pam Whitney - Bank NSF Charges
3. Carpet for Reality Café
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Edward J. Killian
Raymond A. Yensan
Jack A. Roth
Edward J. Elstrodt
Frances "Vi" Remde
Town Inauguration 2002
Justice Eric Reimann installs newly elected Councilman Daniel Robillard who is shown with (left) his mother Rita Hagerman, his daughter Shannon Robillard, Larry Hagerman, and his wife Margie.
Newly elected Town Justice Randy White is installed by retiring Judge Eric Reimann.
Barbi Lare photos
A large crowd was present for the swearing-in ceremonies of the newly elected town officials in the Sidway School. Two councilmembers, a highway superintendent and a town justice took the oath of office from retiring Town Justice Eric Reimann. All were dutifully registered by Town Clerk Nancy J. Samrany.
Mary S. Cooke will continue as a councilmember after receiving the highest vote during the recent election. Daniel F. Robillard will begin his first term on the town council at the next town board meeting.
Raymond F. Dlugokinski will be continuing in the position of town highway superintendent.
Randall D. White will assume his duties at the bench in town court this month when he will replaces retiring Eric Reimann. He will share duties with continuing Justice Sybil Kennedy.
A reception followed with an extensive spread of foods presented by Dennis Donovan, director of the school district's food service.
2002 Town/County Tax Bills Mailed
Town Clerk Nancy J. Samrany announced that the 2002 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. The office will be open Saturday, February 9, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Checks should be made payable to Town Clerk. The last day to pay without penalty is February 15. Envelopes must show a legible postmark of February 15 to be accepted on time. Taxpayers should call the office for correct amounts for payments made February 16 and later. Personal checks are not accepted after June 15 and payments can be made until June 28, 2002. After this date, payments must be sent to the County.
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 2 Date: JANUARY 22, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: New Apostolic Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Rustowicz
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
PROCLAMATION:
GRAND ISLAND SESQUICENTENNIAL
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of January 7, 2002
Special Town Board Meeting of January 8, 2002
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
PUBLIC HEARINGS: 8:00 P.M.
1. Rezoning Application - Daniel Stedman for 1475 Cox Road from R-1B to B-2 for Inside Boat Storage and Service
2. Rezoning Application - Daniel Stedman 330 East River for Vacant Land Located on the East Side of East River Road and the Corner of Cox Road from R-1B to B-2 to be Used by Adjoining Marina
3. Resolution to Set Sewer Rents for the year 2002
CONSENT AGENDA
1. State Senator Rath - Reply to Town Board Resolution re Seneca Land Claim Compact Agreement
2. Planning Board - Minutes of Meeting: December 10, 2001
3. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: December 10, 2001
4. Building Permits - December 2001
5. State Comptroller - Budgetary Comparison Information
6. Erie County Health Department - Restamped Map Cover for Island Meadows Subdivision
7. Workshops for Municipal Officials (Planning& Zoning Boards & Code Enforcement)
8. Erie County Department of Environment & Planning - Quarterly Report 10/1 -12/30/01
9. Erie County Department of Environment & Planning - Public Review of Draft 2002 Erie County Annual Action Plan Report
10. Animal Control Statistics
11. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meetings: 12/06/01 & 1/03/02
12. Erie County Sheriff Gallivan - Deputy Insalaco Annual Youth Award
13. Public Service Commission - Procedural Ruling re Niagara Mohawk
14. Golden Age Center - Usage of Facilities for December 2001
COMMUNICATIONS – TOWN BOARD
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. Monthly Report - December 2001
2. Workman’s Compensation for 2002
3. E-Government Resolutions
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewal: Suzanne Dewey 2881 Fix Road - Keep Horses Five (5) on 21 Acres
2. Erie County Soil & Water Conservation District’s Tree & Shrub Seedling Program
PLANNING BOARD
3. Majestic Woods Development, L.L.C. East Side of Stony Point Road - Proposed Majestic Woods Subdivision - Rezone R-1A to M/E
4. Lyle Dinsmore 1920 Baseline Site Plan Approval for Construction of a New Office & Storage Building
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DLUGOKINSKI
5. New Stop Sign
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
6. Type Two (2) Action for Various Construction Projects
7. West Oakfield Waterline Reconstruction
RECREATION DIRECTOR LINDA TUFILLARO
8. Facility Use Permits
ENRICHMENT & REFERRAL CENTER
9. Resignation of Sue Novits as Outreach Worker
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
VITO & KRISTINE LAVANGO
1. Letter of Opposition to Mesmer Airstrip
ROBERT WESTFALL
2. Proposed Easements for Use of Property at 45 Edgewater
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Appointment - Zoning Board of Appeals
2. Appointment - Planning Board
3. Appointment - Cable TV Committee
4. Adopt Fee Schedule With Changes 5. Special Use Permit - Mesmer 2548 Love Road Private Airport R-1A Zoning
6. Carpet for Reality Café
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Erwin F. Schulz
Marie L. Moreland
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
Date MONDAY, JANUARY 22, 2002 - 6:30 P.M.
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
TOWN BOARD WORKSHOP
Date MONDAY, JANUARY 28, 2002 - 7:30 P.M.
TOWN HALL CONFERENCE ROOM
RE: REORGANIZATION
Decision On Mesmer Airstrip Delayed
By Joelle Logue
At the beginning the Town Board meeting Monday, January 7, 2002 Supervisor Peter McMahon announced there would be no decision on the Mesmer airstrip until January 22. Despite that, several residents spoke against the project during the public comment period prior to the meeting.
Kristine Lavango presented research on small aircraft crashes citing 2678 Cessna accidents between 1998 and 2000. She also had 115 names on a petition protesting the project bringing the total names submitted to 181. Safety issues were on the minds of most who spoke especially in light of the two single engine crashes that took place over the weekend, one in Tampa and one on the west coast.
Michael Judd called Mesmer's proposal a "taxpayer subsidy for one individual's hobby," and criticized a letter by Robert G. Copeland in support of the airstrip.
The Town Board approved two special use renewals - one for Sprint Sites USA for a Communication Tower at 3078 Staley and another for Sprint Sites USA for a Communication Tower at 318 Baseline Road (at the water plant).
Payment for additional engineer services required for the review of traffic issues for the proposed Wilson Farms project on Ransom Road was approved contingent that payment be reimbursed to the town by Parkland Enterprises and Wilson Farms. Also adopted was an agreement to spend $339,459 in highway funds for general repair upon 71.61 miles of town highways including sluices, culverts and bridges.
Referred to the Planning Board was a site plan by L.D.C. Construction Inc. for a new office and storage building at 1920 Baseline Road.
The Town Board acknowledged a letter of resignation from Barbara Dzialak, a part-time attendant at Reality Café effective January 6, 2002, but tabled a request to advertise for a replacement pending town board review.
Supervisor, Town Board Appoint
By Joelle Logue
The following appointments were made during the reorganization meeting of the town of Grand Island Monday (Jan. 7, 2002). Supervisor Peter A. McMahon named the following committee heads:
- Special Districts , Peter McMahon; Audit Committee, Mary Cooke and Kevin Rustowicz; Sidewalk & Bikepath Committee, Rustowicz; Economic Development, Michael Heftka; Historic Preservation Committee, Cooke.
- Cooke was named liaison to the Environmental Conservation Board and Human Rights Commission; Rustowicz to Community Enrichment Council, Cable TV and Youth Board; Dick Crawford to Traffic Safety Advisory Board, Library Trustees, Personnel and Economic Development; Dan Robillard to Architectural Review Board and Parks & Recreation Board; McMahon to Personnel and Planning Board.
- Town Clerk Nancy Samrany appointed the following as full time deputy clerks: Margaret Butler, Betty Lantz and Robin Swedish. Also Swedish as deputy registrar with Lantz and Butler as sub-registrars.
- Highway Superintendent Ray Dlugokinski reappointed Robert V. Fraser as deputy highway superintendent.
- Douglas Learman was reappointed Building Inspector and Dave Salt, Plumbing Inspector although Mary Cooke indicated that code enforcement was in the process of being reevalutated.
Advisory Board Appointments
- John Butler to Board of Architectural Review for a five year term.
- Mary Sommer as Human Rights Chairperson
- Diana Schwartz as Library Trustee for a five year term.
- Lawrence Klock to the Parks & Recreation Board for a five-year term.
- Gary Roesch as chairman of the Planning Board for a two-year term.
- Dorothy Bitner, Anna Ehlert and Bradford Masters Jr. to Traffic Safety Advisory Board for a three-year term.
- Thomas Butler, Harry Carter, Robert Cleveland, Danielle Gworek, Betty Harris, Carmen Pena-Denk, and Jan Squire for one-year terms on the Community Enrichment Council.
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- Robert Marinucci, Mike Sendlbeck, Darlene Sprague and Harry Carter to the Youth Advisory Board.
- Appointments to the Zoning Board of Appeals, Planning Board and Cable TV Committee were tabled until the January 22 meeting. In the case of Cable TV there were no candidates.
Resolutions Pass
For Assessing Special Districts
By Joelle Logue
As part of the reorganization meeting January 7, 2002, resolutions were passed establishing methods for assessment in consolidated sewer districts, consolidated water district and town lighting districts.
It was determined that 100 percent of all net operation and maintenance costs and 10 percent of capital costs would be apportioned to the water consumption of each of the properties or parcels of land within the town sewer districts and recovered as sewer rent. Ninety percent of capital costs will be apportioned against the assessed land valuation of each of the properties and or parcels within the sewer districts. In addition, where there is an accessible line frontage, an annual tax of 80 cents per front foot will be levied in the area formerly known as Sewer District 4. Lateral sewer lines installed by real property developers will not incur front foot charges. County charges to be determined will also apply in former Sewer District 4 or those connected in the East River lateral.
A user, property or parcel that fronts or abuts a sewer line or is connected or required to be connected to a public sewer line, pays all wastewater treatment plant and sewer district lines and appurtenance costs assigned to the operation and maintenance. The user also pays for capital construction costs of the wastewater treatment plant facilities.
A non-user, property or parcel not fronting or abutting a public sewer line or where a sewer is not immediately available, will pay 90 percent of capital construction of costs for wastewater treatment plant facilities based upon land value.
In assessing costs in consolidated water districts, it was approved that all net operation and maintenance costs and all net capital costs would be apportioned against the assessed land valuation of each of the properties or parcels of land within the district.
In the case of lighting districts, all costs would be apportioned against the properties in all districts in the town based upon the frontage of said property.
Town To Observe
The Following 2002 Holidays
By Joelle Logue
All town offices will be closed in observance of the following holidays, as set forth in the various union bargaining units: Martin Luther King Day (Monday, Jan. 21), President's Day (Monday, Feb. 18), Good Friday (1/2 day Friday, March 29), Memorial Day (Monday, May 27), Independence Day (Thursday, July 4), Labor Day (Monday, Sept. 2), Columbus Day (Monday, Oct. 14), Veterans Day (Monday, Nov. 11), Thanksgiving and day after (Thursday & Friday, Nov. 28-29), Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 24-25), New Year's Eve (1/2 day Tuesday, Dec. 31), New Year's Day (Wednesday, Jan. 1).
Town Reorganizes For 2002
Crawford Named Deputy Supervisor
By Joelle Logue
Supervisor Peter McMahon reached across party lines in picking his deputy supervisor during the town's reorganization meeting held Monday, January 7, 2002. Chosen was Republican Dick Crawford Jr., a two term council member. McMahon also welcomed Dan Robillard to the board that is now 3-2 Republican after Democrat Mike Heftka failed to win a re-election bid. McMahon asked for and was granted a 30-day extension for filing the Supervisor's Financial Report for the fiscal year 1999. He also re-appointed Diane Nesbitt as his secretary for the new year.
The town board also took action on the following:
- Set mileage at 36.5 cents per mile for town officials performing duties for the town in 2002.
- Authorized attendance 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.
- Renewed the town's membership in the Association of Erie County Governments.
- Set petty cash funds as follows - town clerk ($700), sewer and water ($100), town justices ($100), highway dept. ($100), recreation dept. ($100).
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- Set bond amounts for town personnel - supervisor ($250,000), town clerk ($250,000), deputy town clerks ($250,000), blanket bond for each other bonded employee ($5000).
- Designated the Island Dispatch and Buffalo News as the official newspapers for the town.
-
- Named Fiddler and Company as audit counselors.
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- Designated Supervisor Peter McMahon as budget officer for the town, and as liaison to and police commissioner of 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 following a failed resolution by Kevin Rustowicz to establish a process of selection based on qualifications and criteria.
PUBLIC MEETING NO. 1 Date: JANUARY 7, 2002
ROLL CALL:
INVOCATION: Bible Presbyterian Church
PLEDGE: Councilman Crawford
PUBLIC COMMENT - AGENDA ITEMS ONLY
APPROVE MINUTES: Town Board Meeting of December 17, 2001
SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR AUDIT
COMMUNICATIONS - REORGANIZATION MEETING:
SUPERVISOR McMAHON
1. 30-Day Extension Supervisor’s Report
2. Deputy Supervisor
3. Mileage
4. Assessment Formulas Reaffirmed
5. Membership - Association of Towns
6. Authorization - Association of Towns Meeting
7. Authorization - Membership Association of Erie County Governments
8. Authorization - Petty Cash Funds
9. Rules and Procedures
10. Town Clerk’s Office Hours
11. Bonding - Town Personnel
12. Legal Holidays
13. Town Newspaper Designated
14. Bank Depositories Designated
15. Audit Counselors Designated
16. Facsimile Signature of Supervisor
17. Town Board Meeting Nights Designated
18. Date to Audit Bills
19. Payroll Dates
20. Supervisor’s Appointments & Committees
21. Town Clerk’s Appointments
22. Highway Superintendent’s Appointments
23. Registrar’s Appointments
24. Budget Officer Designated
25. Salaries Adopted
26. Appointment - Board of Architectural Review
27. Appointments - Zoning Board of Appeals
28. Appointment - Human Rights Chairman
29. Appointment - Library Trustee
30. Appointment - Parks & Recreation Advisory Board
31. Appointment - Planning Board
32. Appointment - Planning Board Chairman
33. Appointment - Traffic Safety Board
34. Appointment - Community Enrichment Council 35. Appointment - Cable TV Committee
36. Appointments - Environmental Conservation
37. Appointments - Youth Board
38. Building Department Reappointments
39. Appointment - Commissioner of Police
40. Justice Court - Monthly Payment to New York State
41. Membership to Government Financial Officers Association
42. Adopt Fee Schedule/with Changes
43. Legal Representation for the Town of Grand Island
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Erie County Department of Youth Services- 2001 Program Annual Reports
2. DEC - Application of River Oaks Golf Course Inc - Stream Disturbance & Clean Water
Act Water Quality Certification
3. NYS Office of Real Property - Determination of State Aid for Assessment Improvements
4. Niagara Mohawk - Community Renaissance Awards of 2001
5. Erie County Division of Budget, Management & Finance - Board of Assessment Review
(BAR) Procedure for Newly Appointed or Reappointed Members
6. Office of State Comptroller - Average Estimate Costs - Special Improvement Districts
7. Erie County Legislature - Distribution of Mortgage Tax to Town of Grand Island
8. Zoning Board of Appeals - Minutes of Meeting: December 6, 2001
9. H.E.A.P. Outreach Sites and Dates
10. DEC Division of Solid & Hazardous Materials - Changes to Regulations of Organic Waste
11. Reality Café Attendance Report
12. Traffic Safety Advisory Board - Minutes of Meeting: November 13, 2001
13. NYSDOT - Designation of Restricted Highway
14. Zoning Officer - Activity Report for 2001
15. Erie County Comptroller - Sales Tax Report for December 2001
16. Golden Age Center - Usage of Vehicles for December 2001
17. Memorial Library Board of Trustees - Minutes of Meeting: October 13, 2001
18. City of Buffalo Comptroller - Regionalism Proposal
19. United States Tennis Association/Eastern - Certificate of Recognition
20. U.S. Bankruptcy Court - Lodgian, Inc., et al., v Debtors
21. United Way 2001-2002 Community School Collaboration Fund
22. Erie County Department of Youth Services - 2001 Program Annual Reports
COMMUNICATIONS - TOWN BOARD
COUNCILMAN RUSTOWICZ
1. Request For Qualifications for Appointment of the Attorney for the Town
COMMUNICATIONS - OTHER OFFICIALS
TOWN CLERK NANCY SAMRANY
1. Special Use Renewals:
A. Sprint Sites U.S.A. for Communication Tower at 3078 Staley Road
B. Sprint Sites U.S.A. for Communication Tower at 318 Baseline Road/Water Plant
TOWN ENGINEER JOHN PHILLIPS
2. Authorize Additional Engineer Services
3. Site Plan Approval - Dinsmore 1920 Baseline Road for Construction of a New Office and Storage Building
HIGHWAY SUPERINTENDENT RAY DGULOKINSKI
4. Agreement to Spend Town Highway Funds
REALITY CAFÉ
5. Resignation of Employee and Request to Advertise
COMMUNICATIONS - GENERAL
ROBERT G. COPELAND
1. Comments on the Mesmer Airport Request and the Petition Against It
REPORT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE:
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1. Special Use Permit - Robert Mesmer 2548 Love Road Private Airport R1A Zoning
2. Town Accountant Pam Whitney - Bank NSF Charges
3. Carpet for Reality Café
FROM THE FLOOR:
FROM THE TOWN BOARD:
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENT
In Memory of:
Edward J. Killian
Raymond A. Yensan
Jack A. Roth
Edward J. Elstrodt
Frances "Vi" Remde
Town Inauguration 2002
Justice Eric Reimann installs newly elected Councilman Daniel Robillard who is shown with (left) his mother Rita Hagerman, his daughter Shannon Robillard, Larry Hagerman, and his wife Margie.
Newly elected Town Justice Randy White is installed by retiring Judge Eric Reimann.
Barbi Lare photos
A large crowd was present for the swearing-in ceremonies of the newly elected town officials in the Sidway School. Two councilmembers, a highway superintendent and a town justice took the oath of office from retiring Town Justice Eric Reimann. All were dutifully registered by Town Clerk Nancy J. Samrany.
Mary S. Cooke will continue as a councilmember after receiving the highest vote during the recent election. Daniel F. Robillard will begin his first term on the town council at the next town board meeting.
Raymond F. Dlugokinski will be continuing in the position of town highway superintendent.
Randall D. White will assume his duties at the bench in town court this month when he will replaces retiring Eric Reimann. He will share duties with continuing Justice Sybil Kennedy.
A reception followed with an extensive spread of foods presented by Dennis Donovan, director of the school district's food service.
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