Document Type: Minutes

TOWN OF FORESTPORT
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING MINUTES
OTTER LAKE FIRE HALL
13853 State Rte. 28, Forestport, N.Y. 13338
July 19, 2023 @6:30

PRESENT: Supervisor Entwistle
Councilwoman Kardash
Councilwoman Verschneider
Councilwoman Abrial
Councilman Scouten
ABSENT: No members of the Town Board were absent.

RECORDING SECRETARY: Tracy Terry, Town Clerk
CALL TO ORDER
ABSTRACTS:
WATER DISTRICT #1:
A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to pay Abstract #7, Vouchers #90- #102 in the amount of $36,465.49
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
BUCKHORN WATER:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to pay Abstract #7, Vouchers #27- #30 in the amount of $247.75
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
SEWER DISTRICT #1:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to pay Abstract #7, Vouchers #54- #58 in the amount of $1,524.05.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
GENERAL:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Verschneider and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to pay Abstract #7, Vouchers #325- #389 in the amount of $37,114.38.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
HIGHWAY:
A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to pay Abstract #7, Vouchers #211- #237 in the amount of $96,230.33.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED

TOWN BOARD ESCROW:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to pay Abstract #7, Vouchers #7- #8 in the amount of $100.00
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
PLANNING BOARD ESCROW:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to pay Abstract #7, Vouchers #9- #10 in the amount of $100.00
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED

TOWN CLERK MINUTES:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilman Scouten to accept the minutes from the:
Town Board Regular Meeting- June 21, 2023
Area Variance Hearing: Harris- June 21, 2023
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
REPORTS
WATER DISTRICT #1
WATER DISTRICT #2
SEWER
TOWN CLERK REPORT
JUSTICE REPORT
PLANNING REPORT
DOG REPORT
SUPERVISOR REPORT
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilman Scouten to approve the reports as a whole.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
NOCCOG:
John Healt, of NOCCOG went over the monthly announcements.
OLD BUSINESS BOARD:
• Buckhorn Transfer of deeds: Buckhorn is still in the process of transferring assets.
• Lucas Sewer Plant Operator: He has been approved by Oneida County Civil Service as the new Wastewater Treatment Plant Head Operator. Ted Daktor will be stepping down July 25 for Wastewater only.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to approve Lucas Kafka as the new Wastewater Plant Operator.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
• Grant Application for further Sewer Project funding: Jen is trying to get additional money the Sewer District is still responsible for.
• Entry Door Quotes: Supervisor Entwistle is waiting on the quote for the entry door and has had no quotes for the curb cut.
• Groomer: The groomer has been declared surplus equipment. Supervisor Entwistle read Resolution #3 of 2023 aloud.

A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to approve Resolution #3 of 2023
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED


• Resolution to deed water rights to Woodgate Library for Community Hall: Supervisor Entwistle read Resolution #2 of 2023 aloud. Jessica, the Town Attorney will change the deeds.
A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to approve Resolution #2 of 2023.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED

• Forestport Dam/ Canal Issues: Supervisor Entwistle spoke with another local resident that had a timeline with the wastegate over the last year. Supervisor Entwistle spoke with Jessica Hart and FERK and shared the information with them. They will take this to the table. FERK said they would be reaching out with further information.
• Bower Road noise complaints: Supervisor Entwistle stated since last month’s meeting he has spoken with the Town Attorney, and she is working up a draft. Since then, the transgressors have been to court and have been fined. Supervisor Entwistle and Susan have been in contact. She has come up with a Public Nuisance Lawsuit. There’s a private lawsuit where a homeowner sues the transgressors personally. A public nuisance lawsuit where there’s a community that’s been tortured by a nuisance the municipality can file a lawsuit on behalf of the community. The town needs to know what portion of the information is applicable to the Town of Forestport and New York State from the Attorney. A woman from the gallery stated a Public Nuisance Ordinance is geared towards the individuals who are a nuisance. An abatement ordinance covers a wide range of things and would have the Code Enforcement Officer issue tickets. Supervisor Entwistle is considering shifting to a Full-Time Code Enforcement Officer with possibly a Clerk. The municipal jobs have expanded with all positions. If there is a Part time Codes Officer, they are limited to 20 hours a week. They work more than that but do not get paid for it. Councilwoman Verschneider asked about a Peace Officer. Supervisor Entwistle said towns used to have constables and he would look into it with the Attorney.
• Comprehensive Plan Update: The Comprehensive Plan Committee met with LaBella Associates to assist with the Comprehensive Plan. They would like to recommend to the Town Board the appointment of LaBella Associates to assist the town with the Comprehensive Plan. Their bid was $62,500.00. There’s $31,000 in grants for this and the other $31,000 will come out of the taxes for the next year to two years.

• Summer Rec: The children are having a great time.

NEW BUSINESS BOARD:
• PBA Resignation: Susan O’Meara has submitted her resignation. An ad will be placed for a new member of the Planning Board of Appeals.
• Codes Personnel:
Councilman Scouten asked when Tony will be taking his test and it was answered he is working on it. Councilwoman Verschneider asked if Joe will be the new Codes Officer and it was answered he will be the Code Enforcement Officer of record, but Tony will be doing most of the work.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilman Scouten to appoint Joe Rowlands as the Provisional Code Enforcement Officer until Tony can finish his certification.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED

• NYMIR Renewal: The new quote for the town insurance is $41,000 which includes cybersecurity.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to accept the NYMIR quote.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
• Fall EXPO: Tracy Terry, the Town Clerk explained a little bit about the EXPO. It will be held September 27th from 10am-2pm. There will be vendors and food trucks.
• Boat wash Station Grant Application: Supervisor Entwistle discussed invasive species and the importance of boat washing for the Community. The cost is $171,0000. If this can be funded through grant money the first couple years, the DEC will pick up the cost of supplies, equipment and labor.

A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to approve Resolution #4 of 2023.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
NEW BUSINESS PUBLIC:
ADJOURNMENT:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Verschneider and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to adjourn the meeting.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:37 pm by Supervisor Entwistle.
Respectfully submitted,

Tracy M. Terry

Forestport Town Clerk

TOWN OF FORESTPORT
AREA VARIANCE HEARING-HARRIS
OTTER LAKE FIRE HALL
13853 State Rte. 28, Forestport, N.Y. 13338
June 21, 2023 @6:15 P.M.

PRESENT: Supervisor Entwistle
Councilwoman Kardash
Councilwoman Abrial
Councilman Scouten
Councilwoman Verschneider
ABSENT: No members of the Town Board were absent.

RECORDING SECRETARY: Tracy Terry, Town Clerk

CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 6:15 pm by Supervisor Entwistle
LEGAL NOTICE:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Board of the Town of Forestport will be holding an Area Variance Hearing on June 21, 2023, at 6:15 PM at the Otter Lake Fire Hall 13853 State Rt. 28, Forestport NY 13338. The Area Variance Hearing is being held to review and accept public comments on an application from Steve Harris for a garage on a non-conforming lot. An approximate 139 +/- depth of land, tax map no. 1.004-1-23, located at 4267 Lakeview Road, Forestport, NY 13338. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD.
PUBLIC COMMMENTS:
• Supervisor Entwistle started the meeting off by stating Mr. Harris’ shed is 33 feet from the road and the plan is to demolish the shed and build a garage. The Site review Law states it has to be 50 feet from the road and 10 feet from the side lot. The only issue is the distance from the center of the road.
• It was asked from the gallery if the permit was supposed to be visible and do you have to have permits for sheds the size of a garage. Supervisor Entwistle stated it is supposed to be visible and if anyone has questions as to if a permit has been issued, please call. All sheds are permitted, except for something two people can pick up themselves with their hands and move. Up to 120 square feet shed you won’t be assessed but still need a permit.
• The Highway Superintendent has no issue with plowing and maintaining the road.

ADJOURNMENT:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to adjourn the meeting.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED

There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 6:30 pm by Supervisor Entwistle.
Respectfully submitted,

Tracy M. Terry
Forestport Town Clerk

TOWN OF FORESTPORT
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING MINUTES
OTTER LAKE FIRE HALL
13853 State Rte. 28, Forestport, N.Y. 13338
June 21, 2023 @6:30

PRESENT: Supervisor Entwistle
Councilwoman Kardash
Councilwoman Verschneider
Councilwoman Abrial
Councilman Scouten
ABSENT: No members of the Town Board were absent.

RECORDING SECRETARY: Tracy Terry, Town Clerk
CALL TO ORDER
. ABSTRACTS:
WATER DISTRICT #1:
A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to pay Abstract #6, Vouchers #78- #89 in the amount of $1,635.19
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
BUCKHORN WATER:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to pay Abstract #6, Vouchers #22- #26 in the amount of $371.86
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
SEWER DISTRICT #1:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Verschneider and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to pay Abstract #6, Vouchers #47- #53 in the amount of $476.28.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
GENERAL:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to pay Abstract #6, Vouchers #265- #324 in the amount of $33,205.25.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
HIGHWAY:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to pay Abstract #6, Vouchers #185- #210 in the amount of $201,875.74.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
 The stone, oil and paving are in these vouchers. Supervisor Entwistle mentioned the roads behind White Lake Inn look good.

PLANNING BOARD ESCROW:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Verschneider and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to pay Abstract #6, Vouchers #6- #8 in the amount of $200.00
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
TOWN CLERK MINUTES:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to accept the minutes from the:
Town Board Regular Meeting- May 17, 2023
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
REPORTS
WATER DISTRICT #1
WATER DISTRICT #2
SEWER
TOWN CLERK REPORT
JUSTICE REPORT
PLANNING REPORT
DOG REPORT
SUPERVISOR REPORT
A motion was made by Councilwoman Verschneider and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to approve the reports as a whole.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
NOCCOG:
Lisa Bellinger, of NOCCOG went over the monthly announcements.
OLD BUSINESS BOARD:
• Lucas water certification: He will be taking the certification class in July. Ted has been making rounds with Lucas and stated Lucas has the day-to-day operations under control. Supervisor Entwistle is in conversation with Oneida County Civil Service over Lucas’ paperwork. He is going to have to take a Wastewater Trainee and Water Trainee civil service exam.
• Chlorine/ Fluoride Complaints: There have been numerous inquiries regarding the town water systems and use of chlorine and fluoride. The town has never put fluoride in the water. The state mandates water sources to be chlorinated. Reports are sent to the Health Department and are monitored at the four locations daily. There is an annual drinking water quality report. The chlorine is at the bare minimum of the requirement.
• Grant Contract: The grant contract has been executed for the improvement project. Jack Dodson has included new pumps in the wastewater project.

• Planning Board of Appeals: The first meeting is this Monday at 6:30 at the Town Hall. There are no variances on the docket, and this is an introductory meeting. Steve Addison, Jeffrey LeBuis and Susan O’Meara are on the PBA. Recently the Town Board has created a PBA to manage use variances, area variances, interpretation of code matters, if there is new construction in a flood plain and is denied at the Fema level, they can try their case in front of the PBA. They will meet on the last Wednesday of the month.
• Groomer: this has been discussed for several months. The groomer was bought by the town in 2001 through a grant. Trackside Blazers has discussed it and they all agreed to sell the groomer for $1. The town Attorney has drawn up a bill of sale for it.

A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to sell the groomer to Trackside Blazers for $1.00
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
It was asked by someone in the gallery why the town would buy a groomer. Supervisor Entwistle stated the town was able to get a grant for the majority of the groomer.

• Entry Door at Town Hall: Supervisor Entwistle received a quote from JM Doors for $11,037.00. Supervisor Entwistle will be getting a couple more quotes.
• Curb cut for senior access: A curb cut has been discussed for seniors accessing the meeting room for meetings and senior activities without having to walk down the hall. Supervisor Entwistle is still waiting on a couple of bids. Jen Hartsig, the Grant writer, was able to secure a $5,000.00 grant from the Community Foundation towards a curb cut. This will be a Fall project.
• Harris Variance: Supervisor Entwistle went over the 5 factors.

A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to approve the Harris Variance.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
NEW BUSINESS BOARD:
• Liability insurance renewal: The town is in the process of having the insurance renewed and they do not see any issues.
• Records Management Grant: Supervisor Entwistle stated they received word late this afternoon and the town received $15,756 for preservation and digitization of the minute’s books. He thanked Tracy, the Town Clerk because the application is super competitive, and she put in a lot of work.
• Community Hall / Woodgate School: There has been discussion about the Woodgate School sharing water with the Woodgate Community Hall. The Community Hall was built in 1902 and the school was built around 1912. The Community Hall, owned by the library has received many grants. One of the things the library wanted to do was host programs there during the winter. They were able to figure out a system where they did not have to have the water on at the Woodgate School and the Community Hall could have water when they wanted. Years ago, there was a yearly agreement when it was a school. When the town took it over, there was a resolution that was made but hadn’t been done in years. In the 1980’s or 1990’s, there was a request to put the easement in the deed from the Community Hall deed to make it permanent but was never accomplished. Supervisor Entwistle asked if there were any objections to having a water rights easement to the well put into the deed of the Community Hall.
A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to approve deeded water rights to the Community Hall through Woodgate Library to the Woodgate School.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
The Town Attorney will draft a resolution for the next board meeting.
• Bower Road: Supervisor Entwistle stated the residents on Bower Road have voiced their concerns to him regarding issues they are experiencing. Their neighbors children are running up and down the road on 4-wheelers with modified exhausts and making figure 8 tracks on posted property. The police have been notified and have been there. It was stated it is not just on Bower Road, it can be heard on Trestle Road. Supervisor Entwistle has spoken with the State Troopers and the Sherriff’s office.
 The State Police are reluctant to enforce a Local noise ordinance. The Sherriff does not have a problem enforcing a Local noise ordinance. The ideal situation would be for law enforcement to catch them on the road.
 A woman from the gallery handed out documents to the Town Board and read them aloud. Discussion took place.
 Supervisor Entwistle stated the town is willing to do what they can. He is going to contact Sherriff Maciol and have an in-person meeting with him. A noise ordinance is a possibility. The Attorney can draft the Local Law to be available for review at next month’s meeting. A Public Hearing will be set for the August meeting if it is agreed upon. It would be for the entire town, not just Bower Road. When you enact a local ordinance it stays in effect after the specific problem is resolved.
 Someone from the gallery asked if anyone had called CPS. It was suggested to continue to call the Sherriff and State Troopers.

• Forestport Dam complaints: Supervisor Entwistle stated for some reason there has not been water going over the dam. The problem is it affects the ecosystem and property values below the dam. It is difficult to call someone who has control of this. He has finally been able to contact the liaison for the hydroelectric plant in relation to their license renewal. The hydroelectric company has meetings, and this lady is allowed to attend. Supervisor Entwistle will be giving her contact information to MaryBeth from the gallery. He has also been in touch with the DEC on ecosystem preservation. They are currently up for relicensing. There are a couple other issues in regard to Alger Pond.
 Tom, from the Gallery listed 4 occurrences since last year. They were March 2021, December 2021, May 2023 and June 6, 2023, and he thinks there was one in the fall, but does not have proof for that one. He has documented the gate above the dam. has been opened with tremendous waterflow. The waste gate has been open, so the water is diverted from above the dam downstream back into the river. They are regulated to have a certain flow. Art, from the gallery stated they were supposed to have an inch-inch and a half of water maintained and if not, there is supposed to be big a fine.
 MaryBeth, from the gallery asked who is responsible for the falls. Supervisor Entwistle stated NYS Canal is responsible for the river, but with the addition of the hydroelectric plant in the area, it may be different. Discussion took place.
 Tom, from the Gallery stated he was forwarded a letter from the United States Department of Interior Fish and Wildlife to the owner of the project. They requested information and studies to be done for their renewal that are serious studies. Supervisor Entwistle asked him to email the letter to him. There are copies of the questionnaire at the boat launch and aren’t getting a high response.

NEW BUSINESS PUBLIC:
• Laurie, from the gallery asked what the fire inspection was for on the vouchers, as the Town has a fire inspection. Supervisor Entwistle stated the vouchers are inspections for the town owned buildings.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:
A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to enter into executive session for Personnel matters.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
The Board returned from executive session at 7:56P.M. with no action taken.

ADJOURNMENT:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to adjourn the meeting.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:57 pm by Supervisor Entwistle.
Respectfully submitted,

Tracy M. Terry

Forestport Town Clerk

TOWN OF FORESTPORT
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING MINUTES
OTTER LAKE FIRE HALL
13853 State Rte. 28, Forestport, N.Y. 13338
May 17, 2023 @6:30

PRESENT: Supervisor Entwistle
Councilwoman Kardash
Councilwoman Verschneider
Councilwoman Abrial
Councilman Scouten
ABSENT: No members of the Town Board were absent.

RECORDING SECRETARY: Tracy Terry, Town Clerk
CALL TO ORDER
. ABSTRACTS:
WATER DISTRICT #1:
A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to pay Abstract #5, Vouchers #66- #77 in the amount of $1,050.84.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
BUCKHORN WATER:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to pay Abstract #5, Vouchers #17- #21 in the amount of $343.66.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
SEWER DISTRICT #1:
A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to pay Abstract #5, Vouchers #39- #46 in the amount of $35,502.78.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
GENERAL:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Verschneider and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to pay Abstract #5, Vouchers #211- #264 in the amount of $24,110.67.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent MOTION CARRIED
HIGHWAY:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to pay Abstract #5, Vouchers #145- #183 in the amount of $30,115.25.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED

 PLANNING BOARD ESCROW:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilman Scouten to pay Abstract #5, Vouchers #4- #5 in the amount of $100.00.
                            5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED

TOWN CLERK MINUTES:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to accept the minutes from the:
Public Hearing: Local Law #3 of 2023-April 19, 2023
Public Hearing: Local Law #4 of 2023-April 19, 2023
Public hearing: Road Closures- April 19, 2023
Town Board Regular Meeting- April 19, 2023
5 ayes/ 0 nays/ 0 absent /1 abstain- Scouten MOTION CARRIED
REPORTS
WATER DISTRICT #1
WATER DISTRICT #2
SEWER
TOWN CLERK REPORT
JUSTICE REPORT
PLANNING REPORT
DOG REPORT
SUPERVISOR REPORT
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to approve the reports as a whole.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
NOCCOG:
John Healt, of NOCCOG went over the monthly announcements.
OLD BUSINESS BOARD:
• Lucas: He is working on the water with Ted. The County stated the Town has to create a Water and Sewer Operator Trainee position.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to approve creating a Water and Sewer Trainee position for the Town of Forestport.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
Lucas gave an update to the Town Board that he has been going around every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday working on water and working with Ted on Friday, doing something different every time.
• WWIP: The Town cannot access the money until the State approves the reimbursement.
• Summer Recreation: There are a total of 12 children signed up. Supervisor Entwistle stated Ash, the summer recreation Director can put together a couple of small field trips. Councilwoman Verschneider asked about a Forestport child helping out, she will be contacting Ash, to make sure she is ok with it. She has a list lined up with things to do.
• Camp Nazareth: 23 kids will be sent this year.
• Groomer: The Trackside Blazers Club has requested the town pay for the new tracks for the groomer the town owns at an estimated price of $17,000. There is currently $12,000 in the budget for the groomer for 2023. Councilwoman Kardash stated she would like Trackside to take the groomer over for $1. Councilwoman Abrial stated in one day there were 537 sleds that went through. Discussion took place. Councilwoman Verschneider suggested paying $12,000 for the repair and selling it to the snowmobile club for $1. Councilman Scouten agreed with Councilwoman Verschneider. Supervisor Entwistle stated the town does not budget for the snowmobile club; the town received a grant for the groomer, and money is budgeted to maintain the groomer. Supervisor Entwistle stated he will be contacting the Comptroller’s Office to inquire about putting a line item in the budget for Recreation. He will be contacting the Attorney to see if they can sell the groomer for $1, as long as the Snowmobile Club is ok with that, if so, they will write a check for $12,000 to fix the groomer.
• Master Plan: There are 2 estimates, and they are waiting on the third bid from Barton & Loguidice. Once the third bid comes in, the Master Plan Committee can meet. The Committee will make the recommendation to the Town Board, and they can officially choose the Planning firm.
• Planning Board of Appeals: The PBA has been created. The candidates are Steve Addison, Jeff LeBuis, and Susan O’Meara. They PBA be formally trained by Matt Johnson. Councilwoman Kardash suggested paying them $25/hour for this year and if they want it changed at budget time, they can. Councilwoman Verschneider asked who the other candidates were, Supervisor Entwistle stated he can get the list to her, as he did not have it on him.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to approve Steve Addison, Jeff LeBuis, and Susan O’Meara to the Planning Board of Appeals Board.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
• Secretary for PBA: Sandy, the Planning Board Secretary will be getting a 20% increase in her salary which is an additional $2,000 a year. Her salary will be prorated.
NEW BUSINESS BOARD:
• Summer Maintenance helper: Councilwoman Kardash had an idea of hiring a Part Time Summer Maintenance helper. There is only one maintenance guy Full Time, and his helper comes 4 hours a week to help with mechanical things. All the bleachers and picnic tables need to be painted at Dutch Hill, mowing the lawn at the Town Hall. The position will be 20 hours a week at $15/hour. Councilwoman Kardash asked if he could paint the guardrails for the Highway Department. Supervisor Entwistle stated he could as long as Bill agreed. Someone suggested having the hydrants flushed and maintained. Supervisor Entwistle stated Core and Main does the maintenance for free. The helper’s name is Dominic Rico.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Verschneider and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to approve the Summer Maintenance helper.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
• Memorial Day Ceremony: This will take place at 9am at the memorial park on Woodhull Road.
• Kirkland Road: There is a dispute if Kirkland and Corduroy roads are town roads due to a criminal case.
• Variance: Steven Harris is looking for a variance on 4267 Lakeview Road for a road setback for a new garage.
A motion was made by Councilman Scouten and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to schedule a Variance Hearing on June 21, 2023, at 6:15P.M.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
Supervisor Entwistle stated the Town Board would take this last variance and it would be a good idea for the Planning Board of Appeals to come to the meeting to see how it is done. The Planning Board of Appeals will meet on the last Wednesday of the month.
• Councilwoman Verschneider asked about the sidewalks and the door. Supervisor Entwistle would like the same company the school uses for a new door.
• The Grant for the pickleball court, the town did not get. Supervisor Entwistle asked them to resubmit for summer recreation, skiing. Supervisor Entwistle spoke with a gentleman that has his own pickleball court at his own home and it cost about $6,000. He will ask when they do the bids for the sidewalk, to give an estimate for the pickleball court too.
• The light key is missing in the gym and Dawn has a book for replacement keys.
• Councilwoman Verschneider stated the County is going to be fixing the bump on Woodhull Road.
NEW BUSINESS PUBLIC:
• Tom Abrial, from the gallery mentioned the Lithium Battery Farm they are trying to put in Raquette Lake. Supervisor Entwistle is going to be contacting the Supervisor in the Town of Long Lake to inquire about it.
ADJOURNMENT:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to adjourn the meeting.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:39 pm by Supervisor Entwistle.
Respectfully submitted,

Tracy M. Terry

Forestport Town Clerk

TOWN OF FORESTPORT
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING MINUTES
FORESTPORT TOWN HALL
10275 State Rte. 28, Forestport, N.Y. 13338
April 19, 2023 @6:30

PRESENT: Supervisor Entwistle
Councilwoman Kardash
Councilwoman Verschneider
Councilwoman Abrial

ABSENT: Councilman Scouten

RECORDING SECRETARY: Tracy Terry, Town Clerk

CALL TO ORDER
.
ABSTRACTS:
WATER DISTRICT #1:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to pay Abstract #4, Vouchers #49- #65 in the amount of $7,141.87
4 ayes/ 0 nays/ 1 absent MOTION CARRIED
BUCKHORN WATER:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to pay Abstract #4, Vouchers #10- #16 in the amount of $1,140.93.
4 ayes/ 0 nays/ 1 absent MOTION CARRIED
SEWER DISTRICT #1:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Verschneider and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to pay Abstract #4, Vouchers #31- #38 in the amount of $2,888.72
4 ayes/ 0 nays/ 1 absent MOTION CARRIED
GENERAL:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to pay Abstract #4, Vouchers #161- #210 in the amount of $25,791.29
4 ayes/ 0 nays/ 1 absent MOTION CARRIED
HIGHWAY:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to pay Abstract #4, Vouchers #99- #144 in the amount of $25,652.47
4 ayes/ 0 nays/1 absent MOTION CARRIED

 PLANNING BOARD ESCROW:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to pay Abstract #4, Vouchers #1- #3 in the amount of $1,000.00.
                            4 ayes/ 0 nays/1 absent MOTION CARRIED

TOWN CLERK MINUTES:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Verschneider and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to accept the minutes from the:
Public Hearing: Local Law #1 of 2023-March 15, 2023
Public Hearing: Local Law #2 of 2023-March 15, 2023
Town Board Regular Meeting- March 15, 2023
4 ayes/ 0 nays/ 1 absent MOTION CARRIED

REPORTS
WATER DISTRICT #1
WATER DISTRICT #2
SEWER
TOWN CLERK REPORT
JUSTICE REPORT
PLANNING REPORT
DOG REPORT
SUPERVISOR REPORT
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to approve the reports as a whole.
4 ayes/ 0 nays/1 absent MOTION CARRIED
NOCCOG:
Lisa Bellinger, of NOCCOG went over the monthly announcements.
OLD BUSINESS BOARD:
NEW BUSINESS BOARD:
• Water Operator – Lucas Kafka started working this week, following Ted, and will be trained.
• Sewer Contract- Supervisor Entwistle is trying to get his contract signed.
• Sewer- Lift Station Replacement- Jim Pelno met with Siewert and they recommended replacing the one on Dutch Hill and the one behind the Sewer Plant. They are over thirty years old. Supervisor Entwistle is going to try getting another grant because they are $60,000.00 each. The Town is going to have to pay for it because it can’t be passed on to the Sewer customers. Dave Ultsch asked if the whole Town was going to be paying for it. Supervisor Entwistle stated they can use COVID money.
• Camp Nazareth- There are currently 6 spots taken. Camp Nazareth is currently looking for lifeguards.

• Summer Recreation-Activities include plants and gardening, beekeeping, yoga, arts, crafts. There are currently 11 kids signed up. This will run from July11th- first week of August
• White Lake Block Party- June 3, 2023, 10am-10pm and “Old Forestport Days”, August 26, 2023:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to approve the road closures.
4 ayes/ 0 nays/1 absent MOTION CARRIED
• Planning Board of Appeals:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Verschneider to the approve Local Law #3, creating a Planning Board of Appeals.
4 ayes/ 0 nays/1 absent MOTION CARRIED
• Update to NYS Codes Law:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to approve Local Law #4 of 2023, A Local Law providing for the Administration and Enforcement of the New York State Uniform Prevention and Building Code.
4 ayes/ 0 nays/1 absent MOTION CARRIED
• Groomer- This is tabled until next month.

• Master Plan Update- The Committee has received two proposals and are waiting on a third from Barton & Loguidice. Labella’s quote is $62,000.00 and Behan and Associates quote is $90,000.00. Discussion took place.
• Dump Day and Shred Day: Both will take place at the Highway Barn on July 15th. Dump Day is 8am-2pm and Shredding is 9am-12pm. It is on the website. You need to be a resident with a limit of 8 tires and two loads. The Forestport Fire Department will have a dumpster at the Highway Barn for steel.
• Resolutions: Supervisor Entwistle stated Tracy Terry has brought some resolutions to his attention that other towns are passing. Supervisor Entwistle will be emailing these resolutions to the Board members. Discussion took place.
• Belle Kilb Day: Supervisor Entwistle said thanks to Councilwoman Verschneider they recognized Belle Kilb for turning 104.
• Office of the Aging: The office of the aging will be having a session at the town Hall on May 3, from 10am-11:30am. Councilwoman Verschneider asked if they can have it on zoom, and Supervisor Entwistle stated they could.

NEW BUSINESS PUBLIC:
• Ron, from Trackside Blazers gave an update. They had 1,118 members for the year and were 6th in the state for membership. They had an Easter egg hunt with over 2,000 eggs for the kids.
The club left their counters out to count the number of snowmobiles that went through the Counters. The number of sleds that went through with locations are as follows:
Near the Junction: 3,338 North of the Club House 5,902 Masonic camp 2,597 C-4 1,657
Railroad in McKeever 1,052 Round Pond Trail 1,407
The busiest day was March 4th, 530 sleds went through Alder Creek.
• Gary Staab of Old Forge Ambulance stated the Board would like a change to the contract. Supervisor Entwistle stated the contract is currently with the Town Attorney. The section will be down to Bear Creek Road for the certificate of Need. Supervisor Entwistle mentioned having Gary sit down with StaR ambulance when they come in for the budget in September. Discussion took place.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to enter into Executive Session to discuss a legal matter.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
The Board returned from Executive Session at 7:06 with no action taken.
ADJOURNMENT:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Abrial and seconded by Councilwoman Kardash to adjourn the meeting.
5 ayes/ 0 nays/0 absent MOTION CARRIED
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:15 pm by Supervisor Entwistle.
Respectfully submitted,

Tracy M. Terry

Forestport Town Clerk

TOWN OF FORESTPORT
FORESTPORT TOWN HALL
10275 State Rte. 28, Forestport, N.Y. 13338
April 19, 2023 @6:15P.M.

PUBLIC HEARING-LOCAL LAW #3 of 2023, “An amendment to Local Law #1 of 1986-Town of Forestport Site Review Law”, creating a Planning Board of Appeals

PRESENT: Supervisor Entwistle
Councilwoman Kardash
Councilwoman Abrial
Councilwoman Verschneider
ABSENT: Councilman Scouten
RECORDING SECRETARY: Tracy Terry, Town Clerk

CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 6:15 pm by Supervisor Entwistle
LEGAL NOTICE:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Board of the Town of Forestport will be holding a Public Hearing on April 19, 2023, at 6:15 PM at the Forestport Town Hall, 10275 State Rte.28, Forestport, NY, 13338. The Public Hearing is being held to review and hear public comments regarding proposed Local Law #3 of 2023, “An amendment to Local Law #1 of 1986-Town of Forestport Site Review Law”, creating a Planning Board of Appeals.
BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD
Tracy M. Terry – Forestport Town Clerk
PUBLIC COMMMENTS:
• Supervisor Entwistle read the letter below for the record.

Supervisor Entwistle stated the Town of Forestport isn’t going to be doing anything different than what they normally do. Currently the Town Board acts as the Planning Board of appeals. According to several Attorneys, it is legal, but not preferred.
• Art Gleasman from the Gallery asked if any problems have come back to the Town Board with their decisions. Supervisor Entwistle said they approved an area variance last May that was overturned by a County Judge through a Article 78 for a procedural issue. There have been seven variances in the last 7 years and 5 were in the last year.
• The Planning Board of Appeals would be a 3-member Board with a stipend that hasn’t been decided on yet. They would have to attend the Planning Board meeting prior to the Planning Board of Appeals meeting so they had the background information and 4 hours of training a year. They look at use and area variances and interpretation appeal.
• Councilwoman Verschneider asked how much the Board of review gets paid. It was answered $15 an hour. Discussion took place regarding the Planning Board of Appeals. Dave Ultsch, from the Gallery asked if they were going to have a secretary and said she should be getting paid more for doing this too. Other Towns are paying $25 an hour for their Appeals Board members.
• Laurie Fessler, from the Gallery stated usually people don’t come to the meeting and the Board reads the five questions and it’s a lot to ask of people and a way to hire more people into the Town. Supervisor Entwistle stated the main focus is to make progress with State regulations. Discussion took place.
• Art Gleasman, from the Gallery stated he would like to see it here with the people he elected. Discussion took place. Supervisor Entwistle stated people that have zoning, have a Zoning Board of Appeals. Of the 12 towns in NOCCOG, 9 have a Zoning Board of Appeals.

ADJOURNMENT:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to adjourn the meeting.
4 ayes/ 0 nays/1 absent MOTION CARRIED
There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 6:30 pm by Supervisor Entwistle.
Respectfully submitted,

Tracy M. Terry
Forestport Town Clerk

TOWN OF FORESTPORT
FORESTPORT TOWN HALL
10275 State Rte. 28, Forestport, N.Y. 13338
April 19, 2023 @6:00P.M.

PUBLIC HEARING MINUTES-LOCAL LAW #4 of 2023, “Repealing Local Law #1, of 2012, A Local Law Providing for the Administration and Enforcement of The New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code”.

PRESENT: Supervisor Entwistle
Councilwoman Kardash
Councilwoman Abrial
Councilwoman Verschneider
ABSENT: Councilman Scouten

RECORDING SECRETARY: Tracy Terry, Town Clerk

CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm by Supervisor Entwistle
LEGAL NOTICE:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Board of the Town of Forestport will be holding a Public Hearing on April 19, 2023, at 6:00 PM at the Forestport Town Hall, 10275 State Rte.28, Forestport, NY, 13338. The Public Hearing is being held to review and hear public comments regarding proposed Local Law #4 of 2023, Repealing Local Law #1, of 2012, A Local Law Providing for the Administration and Enforcement of The New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code.
BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD
Tracy M. Terry – Forestport Town Clerk
PUBLIC COMMMENTS:
• Supervisor Entwistle started the meeting off by saying they are not repealing the Building Code Law. New York State makes changes every so often and the Town is changing the Law accordingly. As far as the way codes is conducted, nothing is going to change.
• Laurie Fessler, from the gallery asked about where the remote inspections come from and stated there were many changes to the Law. She wanted to know where it is mandated because she couldn’t find it online. Supervisor Entwistle stated they do inspections by the number of building permits and the Code Enforcement Officers duties with the time to perform them. If there is a repeat building contractor and there haven’t been problems, the town allows the contractor to submit pictures with the progress. Laurie stated remote inspections fail too. Discussion took place.
• Laurie Fessler asked if the Code Enforcement officer was certified. Supervisor Entwistle stated the CEO is was working on it. Due to covid the classes were online only instead of in person. The live online classes are offered once or twice a year. He stated the Codes Office has been more efficient in the last two years, which isn’t against past codes officers. Laurie asked if anyone had reached out to the State regarding the difficulty in getting the Codes Officer trained. It was answered yes.

ADJOURNMENT:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Kardash and seconded by Councilwoman Abrial to adjourn the meeting.
4 ayes/ 0 nays/1 absent MOTION CARRIED

There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 6:16 pm by Supervisor Entwistle.
Respectfully submitted,

Tracy M. Terry
Forestport Town Clerk