Coventry Town Board Meeting

December 27, 2012

Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.

Roll Call: Present; Marion Ireland, yes; George Broeg, yes; Doug Besemer, yes; Bob Boudreau, yes and George Westcott, yes.

Invocation: Doug Besemer

Pledge: George Westcott

Recognition of the Public:

Supervisor’s Report: George W.

·         We received a Christmas card from the Lord Mayor and Lady of Coventry, England.

·         George W. discussed the cash assets as of December 27, 2012.

·         Rick has done a wonderful job of keeping up with snow removal and keeping the roads clear.

·         We are awaiting discussion with the County to move the repeater from the Town Hall to the County Tower.

New Business:

·         Resolution: That the Town of Coventry does hereby accept and ratify the duly negotiated contract, as presented by Teamsters Local 693, between the Town of Coventry Highway Employees and the Town of Coventry.  All provisions of said contract will take effect on January 1, 2013 and will end December 31, 2015. Motion to accept the Resolution for the Union Contract was made by Doug.  Seconded by George B. Roll Call: George B., yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes and George W., yes.  Resolution passed.

·         In paying the bills for December 12, 2012, we noticed that there was a Lowes Bill that was paid out of both the General and the Highway.  The bill is for Equipment to repair vehicles.  The amount was for $169.65.  George W. is voiding the General Fund check.  The new amount for the General Abstract will be $5012.54 vs. the $5182.19. We need to amend the General Abstract.  George B. made a motion to let George W. make the correction.  Marion Seconded.  Roll Call: Doug, yes; Marion, yes; George B., yes and George W., yes.

New Business

·         Resolution: The Town Board of Coventry: Be it resolved that the Town of Coventry Supervisor and Bookkeeper be authorized to make the necessary budgetary line items adjustments on the 2012 budget, with the proviso that the line by line adjustments will be presented to the board at the regular January 9, 2012 Board Meeting. Motion to accept the Resolution made by George B. with an amendment that 2012 be made to 2013.  Motion seconded by Doug.  Roll Call: Marion, yes; George B., yes; Doug, yes and George W., yes.

Public Participation:

·         No Comments

Audit of the Bills:

Highway Bills in the amount of $6,747.28 as listed on Warrant 13; items 217-224 having been audited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Marion; seconded by George B.  Roll Call: Marion, yes; Doug, yes; George. B., yes and George W., yes.

General Bills in the amount of $780.20 as listed on Warrant 13; items 207-210 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Doug; seconded by George B.  Roll Call: George B., yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes and George W.

The work session for the Town will be held on January 4, 2013 at 7 p.m. and the Organizational and Board Meeting will be held @ 7 p.m. on January 9, 2013.

Motion was made to adjourn the meeting at 7:20 p.m. by Marion.  Seconded by George B.

Supervisor_____________________________ Town Clerk______________________

Town Council__________________________       ____________________________

                        __________________________        ____________________________

Coventry Town Board Meeting

November 14, 2012

The Public Hearing for the 2013 Fire and Town Budget was opened at 6:30 p.m.

Roll Call: Marion Ireland, George Broeg, Bob Boudreau, Doug Besemer, George Westcott.  All are present.

Invocation: Doug Besemer

Pledge: George Westcott

George W. stated that the Town would stay under the 2% Tax Cap.

George W. went over the 2013 Fire Budget.  The Fire Budget has not changed from last year. The amount to be raised is $107,500.

George W. went over the 2013 Town Budget and let everyone know that no Real Property Taxes were to be raised for the General Budget.  Discussion was had.

Doug made a motion to close the Public Hearing.  George B. seconded.  All are in favor.

Coventry Town Board Meeting

December 12, 2012

The December 12, 2012 meeting was called to order a 7 p.m.

Roll Call:  Present: Bob Boudreau, Marion Ireland, George Broeg, Doug Besemer, and George Westcott.

Invocation: Doug

Pledge: George W.

The minutes from the November 14, 2012 meeting were reviewed.  No corrections were needed.  George B. made a motion to accept the minutes.  Doug seconded the motion.  All are in favor.

Supervisors Report:

·         Received a check for $9,925 from Mortgage Tax and a check for $822.75 from Scrap Metal.

Assessors report:

·         Enhanced STAR renewal applications were sent out around Thanksgiving time.  Residents have started bringing them in for verification, giving me an opportunity to meet more folks.  Friendly reminder, the deadline for the application is March 1st, 2013.  As we get closer to the deadline and I have not heard from someone, I'll send a reminder letter.  If we get very close to the deadline, I'll reach out with a phone call.  I try to do everything I can to ensure those who deserve the exemption, receive it.  I plan on sending out the Senior Citizen exemptions in the next week or two.  This exemption requires 2012 income as opposed to the Enhanced STAR, which requires 2011 income.  If you qualify for the Senior Citizen exemption, then you automatically qualify for the Enhanced STAR.  Agricultural exemption renewals will be sent at the beginning of the New Year.

Highway Superintendents Report: Richard Granger, Jr.

·         The Highway Crew have been out fixing potholes. 

·         Wiggins Tree Service has been hired to trim and cut trees along Stiles and Cueball road.

·         A new driveway is going in on North Road and working on fixing the hydrant that is in the pond on North Road.

·         Rick was asked about Owlville Road.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company: Julie Clark

·         There are two new Junior Members.  They will be training for Firematics. 

·         The next Pancake Breakfast will be January 6, 2012 from 8-11 am.

Community Events Committee:

·         The Community Events is on a break at this time.

·         Julie Clark read a letter about how the Community Events Committee started.  See attached.  http://townofcoventryny.com/Letter from Julie to Town.pdf

Planning Board: Greg Miller

·         It was a brief meeting. 

·         There is a need to revise and update forms.  George suggested discussing revisions and updates with the County Planning Department.

Old Business:

·         Doug gave an update on the Union Contract.

New Business:

·         OSC office sent a representative to do a review of our budget because of the 2% Tax Cap Law. 

·         We did miss placing the Fire Budget figure which they wanted in our figure. By placing it in to the figure it helped us out.  The report should be here at some point in the New Year.

·         We have a BAR member who is rotating off who would like to remain on.  This is Donna Commesso.  George would like a resolution.  Bob made a motion to reappoint Donna Commesso.  George B. seconded.  See attached. Roll Call: Marion, yes; George B., yes; Doug, yes; Bob, yes and George W., yes.

·         The close out end of year meeting will be held on December 27, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.

·         We need to look into the purchase of a Dishwasher for the kitchen. George B. made the motion to purchase a new Dishwasher.  Doug seconded the motion.  All are in favor.

·         Resolution: The Town Board of Coventry Be it resolved that an intra-fund transfer be made from General Unallocated Surplus to the 2013 General Account, Line A1000, in the Amount of 10,000.

Moved by Doug.  Seconded by George. B. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Bob, yes; Doug, yes; George B., yes and George W., yes.

·         Resolution: The Town Board of Coventry: Be it resolved that an intra-fund transfer be made from Highway Unallocated Surplus to the 2013 Highway Account Line D1000, in the amount of $51,400.  Moved by George B... Seconded by Marion.  Roll Call: Bob, yes; Doug, yes; George B., yes; Marion, yes and George W., yes.

Public Participation:

·         It was mentioned that the Town Historians position is vacant.  If anyone knows of someone interested please send a resume to the Town Clerk.

·         Kim asked about the pipeline.  There is nothing new to report at this time.

Audit of Bills:

Marion made a motion to accept the Town Clerk Monthly report.  Bob seconded.  Roll Call: Bob, yes; George B., yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes and George W., yes.

Highway bills in the amount of $11,182.23 as listed on Warrant 12; items 196-216 having been audited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Moved by George B. Doug seconded.  Roll Call: Doug, yes; George B., yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes and George W., yes.

General bills in the amount of $5,182.19 as listed on Warrant 12; items 190-206 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Doug.  George B. seconded.  Roll Call: George B., yes; Marion, yes; Doug, yes; Bob, yes and George W. yes.

The working session will be held on January 4, 2013 at 7 p.m. the Organizational /Board Meeting on January 9, 2013 at 7 p.m.

George B. made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:38.  Bob seconded.  All are in favor.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Coventry Town Board Meeting

November 14, 2012

The Public Hearing for the 2013 Fire and Town Budget was opened at 6:30 p.m.

Roll Call: Marion Ireland, George Broeg, Bob Boudreau, Doug Besemer, George Westcott.  All are present.

Invocation: Doug Besemer

Pledge: George Westcott

George W. stated that the Town would stay under the 2% Tax Cap.

George W. went over the 2013 Fire Budget.  The Fire Budget has not changed from last year. The amount to be raised is $107,500.

George W. went over the 2013 Town Budget and let everyone know that no Real Property Taxes were to be raised for the General Budget.  Discussion was had.

Doug made a motion to close the Public Hearing.  George B. seconded.  All are in favor.

Coventry Town Board Meeting

November 14, 2012

Regular meeting was opened at 7:30. 

Marion made a motion to accept the October minutes with no changes.  Seconded by George B.  All are in favor.

Correspondence:

·         George W. received a letter from Brian Fitts the assessor.  George W. read the letter to the public.  See attached.

·         George W. received a letter from NYMIR and the Proposed Rate Decrease.

Highway Superintendent Report: Rick

·         Everything is going well.

·         The trucks are ready for the snow.

·         The crew has been doing some brush cutting and ditch cleaning.

·         There was no overtime used during the storm.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company: Daron Schultes and Dan Clark

·         Fundraiser was a success to help with the purchasing of the New Truck.

·         If residents need Chimneys cleaned, they can call the Fire Company.

·         The Fire Company has received a new piece of Equipment it is a combination Rescue/Engine and will be put into service in January 2013.

Community Events Committee: Doug Besemer

·         The committee is on a break at this time.

·         The committee will be planning the upcoming Cabin Fever Dance.

·         The Benefit dinner for Eric Koster was a success.

·         The Halloween Party was very nice.

·         The Museum Association, Fire Company and Community Events Committee will hold the 8^th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting will be held on Dec. 2 at 4:30.  Santa will be present.

Planning Board: Greg Miller

·         There was no quorum so a meeting could not be held.

·         If anyone would like to submit names for the planning board please turn them into the Town. 

Museum Report:

·         No Report.

Community Garden: Doug Besemer

·         Tilled the beds and planted some garlic for next year.

Old Business:

·         Bob made a motion to adopt the 2013 Town and Fire Budgets with the following changes A1340.10 adding the /Bookkeeper. And A6772.4 contractual for Programs for the Aging.  Marion seconded the motion.  Discussion: None was had. Roll Call: Bob, yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes; George B., yes and George W., yes. The 2013 Budgets have been adopted.

·         We received two bids for Equipment last month after the meeting.  The bids were delivered on time but no one was at the office to accept them so the board has opted to open at this time. 

Davino Trucks and Parts:  1991 Mack Truck $7,577

Village Truck Sales: 1991 Mack Truck $8,290

Rick felt the minimum had been met on the Mack Truck.  George B. made a motion to accept the bid from Village Truck Sales of $8,290 for the 1991 Mack Truck.  Marion seconded.  All are in favor.

Village Truck Sales:  Bid for Gradall $4,290.  This was the only bid for the Gradall and it did not meet the minimum bid.  So Rick felt it would be best to reject the bid and hold onto the Gradall at this time.  George B. made the motion to reject the bid for failing to meet the minimum bid on the Gradall.  Doug seconded.  All are in favor.

·         The Board reviewed the SPCA Contract for 2013.  It has not changed from last year.  Doug made a motion to let George W. sign the contract.  George B. seconded.  All are in favor.

·         Marion made a motion to go into executive session to discuss personnel issues, pending litigation, property transfers, and other various issues that would qualify for an executive session.  Doug seconded.  So moved.

·         George B. made a motion to come out of executive session for personnel issues, pending litigation, property transfers, and other various issues that would qualify for an executive session.  Bob seconded.  All are in Favor.

·         Justice Appointment:  Joseph Agunzo was asked to come in and address the board.  He has given the board the necessary information and residence requirements to be our next Town Justice.  George B. made the motion to accept Joseph Agunzo as he meets all the requirements that Town has set forth before he takes the oath of office in January as our Town Justice for Coventry. Doug seconded.  Roll Call: George B., yes; Marion, yes; Doug, yes; Bob, yes and George W., yes.

·         Joe Agunzo appointed Terri Bickford as his Town Justice Clerk.  Doug made a motion to accept Terri as the Town Justice Clerk.  Marion seconded. All are in favor.

·         Marion made a motion to appoint Mr. Greg Evans as a member of the Board of Assessment Review.  George B. seconded.  Town Attorney asked if the person was qualified and met the Towns requirements.  George W. said that he does meet the Towns requirements.  Roll Call: George B., yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes and George W., yes.

Audit of the Bills:

·         Town Clerk Monthly report review and accept.  Moved by Doug.  Seconded by George B. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Doug, yes; Bob, yes; George B., yes and George W., yes.

·         Highway bills in the amended amount of $18,494.83 as listed on Warrant 11; items 174-195 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval.  Moved by George B. Marion seconded. Roll Call: Doug, yes; Bob, yes; George B. yes; Marion, yes and George W., yes.

·         General bills in the amount of $4,758.57 as listed on Warrant 11; items 173-189 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval.  Moved by George B. Marion seconded. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Bob, yes; Doug, yes; George B., yes and George W., yes.

The working session will be on December 3, 2012 at 7 p.m. and the Board meeting will be on December 12, 2012 at 7 p.m.

Marion made a motion to adjourn meeting at 8:45.   Doug seconded.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Public Hearing for the 2 % Tax Cap Override

October 10, 2012

The Public Hearing was opened at 7 p.m.

Roll Call: Present Marion Ireland, yes; Doug Besemer, yes; George Broeg, yes; Bob Boudreau, yes and George Westcott, yes.

Invocation: Doug Besemer

Pledge: George Westcott

·         George read Local Law #2 of 2012 known as “Town of Coventry Responsible Budgeting Law of 2013”.  Rules of Engagement: Each person who wishes to speak will have an opportunity to talk for 3 minutes and speak for one time. This is a Public hearing only for the 2% Tax Cap Override for Budget 2013 nothing else.  We are doing this because initially we were over the calculated Tax Cap by State Comptroller Office.  However, cuts have been made to the budget to allow us to be under the Real Property Tax Levy.  But we have a situation where we are still young in the year and things could change where we may have to adopt additional monies into the budget.  As it stands right now we are under the 2% Tax Cap limit.  We need do have this in place in case a major change to the budget should take place.  We have worked hard to meet the Tax Cap without sacrificing the Highway Budget.  There will be no Tax Levy for the General Budget, just the Highway.  That is where the money is needed.

·         It was asked about using unused portion of last year’s Tax Cap.  George W. stated that has already been implemented.

·         There was discussion on how the 2% Tax Cap Override would only be used if there is an unforeseen circumstance before the Public Hearing for the 2013 Budget. 

·         It was asked why if we are under the budget would we need to do this now.  George W. stated that the Local Law to override, needed to be in place before the Budget hearing.

Doug made a motion to close the Public Hearing.  George B. seconded.  All are in favor.

Respectfully Submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Coventry Town Board Meeting

September 12, 2012

The September 12 meeting was called to order at 7 p.m.

Roll Call: Present were Marion Ireland, Bob Boudreau, Doug Besemer, George Broeg, and George Westcott.

Invocation: Doug Besemer

Pledge: George W.

Minutes of the August 8th meeting were reviewed.  Marion would like to elaborate on a part of the public participation on the Assessor issues. She would like it stated that the result of the actions are open to the public they are not confidential as it was stated previously.  Anyone can ask questions and look at them. Doug made a motion to accept the minutes as amended.  Marion seconded.  All are in favor.

Recognition of the Public: 

Supervisor’s Report: George Westcott

·         George W. received a check from NYMIR in the amount of $1,237.71 for their share of the surplus back to the Towns.

·         There has been some progress with Mrs. Lerwick and the Town on the tire situation.  There are approximately 350 tires gone and another 400 tires will be taken away. 

·         The Bainbridge First Baptist Church thanked us for the use of the Ball field this summer.

·         The NYMIR sent us Workmen’s Compensation Disability Compliance Notice that has been posted in both the Town Office and the Highway Garage.  

·         Marion mentioned that she received a notice about the Constitutional Pipeline which she will make available in the office after she has had a chance to look it over.

Highway Superintendents Report: Rick Granger, Jr.

·         The sand pile has grown and should have all the sand they need for the winter.

·         Going through the Equipment and inspecting and make sure that it is ready for the season.

·         Notification that the State has changed the law that there is no deadline to replace Street Signs. 

·         DEC Habitat, working on a Permit to clean the Culvert pipe that is under Cahoon Road so that the road does not get damaged. There is a deadline of October 5 to get this done.

·         Starting to move equipment out on Afton end of Tracy Road to start working on the road as well we can.

·         Rick would like to put 4 pieces of equipment to be placed as surplus and offer for bid.  The pieces of equipment are: Mack Case Tractor 440-L, no reserve;  Airflo pickup Sander, no reserve; 1990 Gradall G3WD with a $4,500 reserve; 1991 Mack R6885RD 10 wheeler, $7,500 reserve.  George B. made a motion to put 4 pieces of equipment up for bid place in the papers with 1991 Mack at minimum$7,500 and the 1990 Gradall minimum at $4,500 the other two items no minimum.  Marion seconded the motion.  All are in favor.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company: Daron Schultes and Dan Clark

·         The 2013 Fire Budget was reconstructed and presented to the board before the meeting.

·         The Chicken Barbeques are over with for the year and now the Pancake Breakfast will start up with the first one on October 7, 2012.

·         Going down to New Jersey to look at a truck.  This will replace two older vehicles. 

Community Events Committee: Doug Besemer

·         Planning a Halloween Party.

·         There will be a meeting on Friday night.

Planning Board: Bruce Warren

·         There was discussion of the activity at Echo Lake and that Mr. Phelan has continued with his refusal to file a site plan application. 

·         The Planning board is requesting that the Town Laws and application be posted on the website.

·         The Planning board was presented with a change of use from Mr. Richard Ley. 

·         Discussed the Unsafe Building on 206 owned by Mr. Sandell.

·         There will be further Training for the planning board on October and November.

Coventry Museum Report: Joyce Besemer

·         See attached.

Community Garden: Doug Besemer

·         It is open to anyone who would like to pick the vegetables and weed.

Assessor Report:

·         The Assessor will be attending a course on Agricultural Exemptions and will not be in the office next week.

Old Business:

·         It was asked when Bob and George B. will start the replacing of the Pavilion Posts in the fall.

·         There is a meeting tomorrow evening for Pipeline lease.  We have been released from the old Lease.

·         RESOLUTION to accept OSC Audit Correction actions.  Marion made a motion to accept the OSC Audit Correction Actions.  Doug seconded.  Question was asked by George B. about the cell phone bill. It was asked as to who this was set up for. Theresa let the board know that it was only intended for the Highway Superintendent because of times when he needed to reach the guys when they were out of reach of the repeater. Need to show receipts for any Town Calls.  Rick and George W. do not submit vouchers for their phone.   Roll Call: Doug, yes; George B., yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes and George W., yes. 

·         Budget and Union negotiations are under way.

·         Discussed the Fireworks permit.  Doug made a motion to except the Fireworks Permit Application.  George B. seconded.  All are in favor.

·         There was discussion about the Shared Services Agreement for the Highway Dept.  Rick looked over the one that was set up in 2004. A few minor changes need to be made but overall it looks good.

New Business:

·         There will be a public hearing on a Local Law to override the 2% Tax Cap.  The reason is that we lost $85,600 that could have put toward the reduction of the particular new budget for 2013.  Doing the best to keep it as low as possible.   

·         George W. has received a written resignation as Town Justice from Russell Lerwick as of December 31, 2012. Whoever takes the position will have to run for election in 2013. We hold interviews for this position on October 1, 2012.   A few names have been brought forward.  They are as follows: Ken Klaiber, Bruce Warren, Jennifer Smith, Terri Bickford.  Russell wanted everyone to know that this position is time consuming and you need to be computer literate.

·         Work Session meeting minutes were read as we had to pay a bill for Lawn mowing service.  George B. made a motion to accept the Work Session minutes.  Marion seconded.  Roll Call:  Doug, yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes; George B., yes and George W., yes.

Public Participation:

·         Ron Davy wanted to thank Rick for the work that was done on the North Road.  Asked about the town’s position on replacing culverts.  Pipe can be bought from the town and the town will place as long as it is on a town road.

·         Kim had a concern about the chicken farm.

·         Julie Moore is upset about her Ag. Exemption being cut in half and wanted to know why.

Audit of the Bills:

·         The Town Clerk Monthly report was submitted for approval.  George B. moved to accept the Clerks Monthly report.  Marion seconded. Roll Call: George B., yes; Bob, yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes and George W., yes.

·         Highway bills in the amount of $59,799.26 as listed on Warrant 9; items 137-154 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Doug; seconded by George B.  Roll Call: Bob, yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes; George B., yes and George W., yes.

·         General Bills in the amount of $2,709.45 as listed on Warrant 9; items 140-153 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Marion; seconded by George B. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Bob, yes; George B. yes; Doug, yes and George W., yes.

The working session will be on October 1, 2012 and the Public Hearing for a Local Law in the event that the town may need to go over the 2% Tax Cap will be at 6:30  on October 10, 2012 with the Board meeting to follow.

George B. made a motion to adjourn at 8:26 p.m. and Bob seconded.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Coventry Town Board Meeting

August 8, 2012

The Board meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.

Roll Call: Present:  Marion Ireland, George Broeg, Bob Boudreau and George Westcott.  Absent: Doug Besemer.

Invocation: George Westcott

Pledge: George Westcott

Minutes of the July Board meeting were read and corrections in spelling were made. George Broeg made a motion to accept the minutes with corrections.  Marion seconded.  All are in favor.    The Special Meeting minutes were looked over and George B. made a motion to accept them.  Marion seconded.  All are in favor.

Town Supervisors Report: George Westcott

·         Received $1,058.35, $27,831.98 and $46,965.04 with an existing $33,666.64. Last month we had to pay out $30,000 for road repairs which gives us a balance of $79,522.01 in July 2012 for FEMA road repair.

·         George received $52,019.20 for the 2^nd quarter sales tax and $439.80 from the Town of Coventry Justice to general checking.

·         Transfer from Town General Checking to Highway savings in the amount of $30,600 to close out the remaining balance for the $85,600.

Highway Superintendents Report:  Rick Granger, Jr.

·         The work on Moran Road is complete accept for the Guard Rails.

·         We will be receiving $96,000 for CHIPS in September.

·         Needed to purchase CB High Frequency radio’s to be compatible with new communication per county.

Ethics Committee:  Kathy Granger

·         The Code of Ethics is still with the Lawyer.

Assessors Report: Brian Fitts

·         See attached.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company: Daron Schultz

·         The Fire Company marched in the Norwich Parade.

·         Thank you to George W. and Doug Besemer for sitting in the Dunk Tank.

·         Lloyd Drachler was named Fireman of the year.

·         Squad calls are up a little this month.

·         The Budget will be ready to turn in next month.

Community Events Committee: Daron Schultz

·         The Blueberry Fest was a success.

·         The annual Halloween Party in will be held in October.

·         The fireworks that were held for the Blueberry Festival were a success.

Planning Board:

·         Discuss the Gas Drilling resolution.

·         The board was supposed to review the site plan for Echo Lake but no papers were turned in and Echo Lake has opened for business without application being filed.  This has been forwarded to the Code Enforcement Officer.

·         Discuss irregularity of site plan for property submitted by Mr. Boudreau for the Mobile home business.

Museum Association Report: Janine Hakim

·         See attached.

Community Garden Update:

·         No report

Old Business:

·         The Update on Moran Road. The construction is done it is just waiting for guardrails.

·         The pavilion is in need of some repairs.  George B.  and Bob will get measurements for the post that need to be replaced. 

·         Bob and Doug are working together get answers for the Norse Energy pipeline lease.

·         A copy of the OSC audit is being given to the Lawyer.  George went over the recommendations and let everyone know that the audit is posted on the Town Website.

·         NYMIR inspection had three items that needed to be fixed.  They were:  the flower bed out front had to have the lambs ear removed because of bees,  the light out back needed to be adjusted and the chips in under the swings had to be refilled.  Everything has been fixed at this time.

·         Rick is working on a Shared Resource Document for the Highway Department to use with other Town Highway Departments.

New Business:

·         The Town clerks hours starting August 20, 2012 will be Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 4-7 p.m. and Saturdays 9-12.

·         The board needs to do a new resolution for the retirement due to the hiring of Brian Fitts. George B. made a motion to authorize the resolution of the NYS Retirement System for Brian Fitts and Dara Smith.  Marion seconded the motion.  Roll Call: George B., yes; Bob, yes; Marion, yes and George W., yes.

·         Work has started on the 2013 Budget and George Broeg and Doug Besemer are working on the Union negotiations.

·         Bill Sampson has gone through and reworked our Fireworks Application.  George W. is giving a copy to Daron to look over and familiarize the Fire Dept. on because they will be overseeing the display set up prior to signing off on the Application.

Public Participation:

·         The topics that were discussed during public participation were: Assessor issues, the softball field, and some site plan issues.

Audit of the Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $109,473.74 as listed on Warrant 8; items 118-136 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval.  Moved by George B. and Marion seconded.  Roll Call: Bob, yes; George B., yes; Marion, yes and George W., yes.

General bills in the amount of $1,381.86 as listed on Warrant 8; items 130-139 having been audited by the Boaqrd are submitted for approval.  Moved by Marion and seconded by George B. Roll Call:  Marion, yes; George B., yes; Bob, yes; and George W., yes.

The working session will be on August 29, 2012 at 7 p.m.

The Board meeting on September 12, 2012 at 7 p.m.

Meeting adjournment at 8:10 p.m. Motioned by George B. and seconded by Marion.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Town Clerk

Coventry Town Board Meeting

July 11, 2012

The Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.

Roll Call: Present; Marion Ireland, Doug Besemer, George Westcott, George Broeg.  Bob Boudreau was late.

Invocation: Doug Besemer

Pledge:     George W.

The minutes of the June meeting were read and no corrections were made. Motion made by Marion to accept the minutes as read.  Seconded by Doug.  All are in favor.

Recognition of the Public: George W. let the public know that there will be no discussions on the side which the meeting is in session.

Supervisor’s Report: George W.

·          The ZMK Construction bill in the amount of $53,000 is paid.  We have received a $30,008.74 check from NYS Emergency Management.  The new balance is $34,724.99.

·          The Town Hall will be open to our residents when the temperatures exceed 90 degreees.

·          The Town of Bainbridge will have a meeting on the 17^th, they are going forward with the Leatherstocking pipeline.  Doug feels it is premature to do anything until we know more. Marion feels we should wait for final reports.  George B. is for it if it is safe.  It is felt that we need more information. 

·          In August the Town Board will start working on the Budget and the Union Contract for 2013. The contract will be worked on by George and Doug.

·          The Department of Labor was contacted about the fireworks display that was set off without approval of the permit on July 7, 2012. 

Highway Superintendents Report: Richard Granger, Jr.

·          A lot of the roads have been resurfaced thanks to the good weather that we have had.

·          Work on the North Road is almost done.

·          Moran Road is coming along.

·          Rick was told that he is doing a good job.

Ethics Committee:

·          The new document is with the lawyer.  Kathy is waiting for feedback from the Lawyer.  Doug let Kathy know that the committee has done a wonderful job.

Assessor Report: Brian Fitts

·          See attached.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company: Daron Schultes

·          Dan said they are on track with the budget. They should have the budget ready to present in August.

·          There is a plan on downsizing the fleet. Looking to get rid of an Engine and rescue and combining them into a Engine/rescue.

·          The Fire company will do pool fills on a limited bases.

·          Lloyd Drachler was named Fireman of The Year.

Community Events Committee: Doug Besemer

·          There will 3 more meetings before the actual Blueberry Festival. The Fire Company will do traffic control.  There will be two Town Board members in the Dunk tank.  A flag ceremony will be held at 8 am followed by a Pancake Breakfast, Net life will do a demonstration, Sheriff Dept. will do I.D. for kids.  There will be a strong man competition, Mud bog, and a pie eating competition. The Shortchange band will be performing form 1-3.  There will be a fireworks display at dusk.

Planning Board Report: Bruce Warren

·          The agenda was to review Echo Lake but no plan was submitted.

Museum Report: Joyce Besemer

·          See attached.

Community Garden Update: Doug Besemer

·          The garden has been planted and things are coming up.  Jennifer has been doing her best to keep everything watered.

Old Business:

·          The update on Moran Road BAN. The bond has been returned by Mr. Diehrline as it needs some modifications.

·          George W. would like measurements taken of the posts that need to be replaced on the Pavilion.

·          The Code of Ethics is with the Lawyer at this time.

·          At this time the Town will not take any actions for or against Gas drilling. The DEC will be the deciding factor in how the Town votes. All the Board members are in favor of waiting to see what the DEC has to say before making a decision.

·          There was some discussion on the Pipeline lease. It was stated that we have one person that will be the contact person, so that there is no missed communications. Doug and Bob will work together on this.

New Business:

·          There was discussion of the shared services document for the different town Highway Departments.

·          Resolution to appoint Brian Fitts as Assessor for the remaining term now until September 30, 2013. See attached.  Motion was made by George B. to extend Brian Fitts contract to September 30, 2013.  Marion seconded.  Roll call: George B., yes; Bob, yes; Marion, yes; Doug, yes and George W., yes.

·          The Town Clerk will be on vacation from July 22-28, 2012.  The Deputy will cover the office during this time.

·          NYMIR was here to do an inspection.  They found 3 areas at the Town Hall that needed to be fixed.  The first area was the wood chips under the playground equipment needed to be redone.  Second was a security light in the Hall needed to be replaced. Third was the lambs ears in the landscaping in front of the Town Hall need to come out as it was attracting honey bees.  All of these items have been addressed and either removed, replaced or built up.  The Highway needed license notifications for highway personnel.

·          OSC Audit was sent to the Board Members.

George B. made a motion to go in to executive session to discuss OSC Audit. Marion seconded.

Doug made a motion to come out of executive session of OSC Audit.  George B. seconded.

The Marion made a motion to send a Letter of Acceptance to the OSC for their findings.  George B. seconded the  motion.  Roll Call: Marion, yes; George B., yes; Doug, yes, Bob, yes and George W., yes.

Public Participation:

·          There was more discussion on the Code of Ethics.

·          A question was asked about speed limit signs for Town Roads.  Rick explained that in order to change a speed limit you need to have a petition and turn it into the state then wait for them to check it out and decide if it will be changed.

·          Lee Schultz mentioned that the Town needs to make a decision one way or another on the Gas Drilling resolution.  Marion stated that whatever DEC and SGEIS come out with will be the deciding factor .  Doug made a motion to hold a meeting in 10 days to discuss the resolution.  The meeting will be held on July 20^th at 7 p.m. Marion seconded.  Roll Call: Marion, yes; Doug, yes; Bob, yes; George B., yes and George W., yes.

Audit of Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $119,346.15 as listed on Warrant 7: items 101-117 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Marion. Seconded by George Broeg. Roll Call: Bob, yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes; George B., yes and George W., yes.

General bills in the amount of $3,121.51 as listed on Warrant 7; itms 117-129 having been autdited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Doug.  Seconded by George B.  Roll Call: George B. yes; Marion, yes; Doug, yes; Bob, yes and George W., yes.

There will be a Special meeting on Friday, June 20 to discuss the Gas Drilling Resolution.

A working session will be held on July 30, 2012 at 7 p.m.

The Board meeting will be held on August, 8, 2012 at 7 p.m.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.m. Motioned by George B. Seconded by Marion.  All are in favor.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk.

Town of Coventry Board Meeting
June 13, 2012, 7 pm

Meeting is called to order at 7:04.

Roll Call: Present; Doug Besemer, Marion Ireland, George Broeg, Bob Boudreau and George Westcott.

Invocation: George W.

Pledge'of Allegiance: George W.

The minutes of the May 2012 meeting were reviewed and George B. made a motion to accept the minutes, Marion seconded.  Roll Call: Doug, yes; Marion, yes; George B. yes; Bob, yes and George W., yes.

Town Reports

"

Town Supervisors Report:

·   Financial update: $57,720.58 from NYS Emergency Management (FEMA). Monies received to the General checking: $46,710.71 l" qtr. sales tax, Justice fees $2,467.60, Town Clerk fees $782.00, Chenango County Mortgage tax of $4,573.50 and $4,563.63 Feb-April penalty fees from taxes. Highway checking received $1,554.45 for sale of scrap metal.

·  Town general checking will transfer to Highway checking $25,000 to reduce the amount owed from

$55,600 to $30,600 still owed (original amount owed $85,600 from previous administration FY 2011).

Assessor Brian Fitts and hours:

·          June 2012 and forward: Mondays 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm and every 4th Monday only 9:00 am-12:00 pm.

Highway Superintendents Report: Rick Granger

·          See attached

Ethics Committee Report: Kathy Granger

·          Kathy was not present, Ken Klaiber spoke on her behalf.  The Final Resolution is ready to present to the Board.  The Board made a motion to send the Code of Ethics to Lawyer so that he can go through it. Marion seconded.  Roll Call: Doug, yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes; George B., yes and George W. yes.  The Document will be forwarded to the Town Attorney for review. Ken was asked by George W. how the committee voted on the document, “He stated that everyone was asked if they were in agreement with the document the way it is written to be presented to the board and everyone voted yes”.  If there is anything that is not properly defined it will go back to committee.

 Assessors Report:

·          On May 23^rd the Grievance Board had 2 people for the first session and 3 people for the second session.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Department

·          There was 1 shed fire.

·          There were a few concerns on campfires.

·          There will be a Mud Bog on June 24^th at the Firehouse.

·          A Chicken Barbeque will be held the first of every month from noon until gone.

·          The drawing for the motorcycle will be held during the Blueberry Fest on July 28^th.

Community Events Committee: Doug Besemer

·          On June 8^th there was a meeting to discuss the 6^th Annual Blueberry Festival.  Daron Schultes is the planning coordinator and individuals who are looking to sponsor an activity will be required to attend the meetings in July.  By the July meeting there will be an agenda. 

Planning Board Report

·          The Planning Board would like the Town Attorney to look into possibly rescinding a Site plan Application that was presented by Mr. Phelan and Mr. Boudreau due to circumstances that show that Mr. Phelan does not appear to own the parcel across from Town Hall that they applied for last month and was originally approved.

·          Echo Lake update: George W. and Marion went to do a walk through, progress is being made.

·          Donna Jones from County Planning was in to do a training of the Planning Board.  They still need 3 hours of training.

·          The Planning board will meet on Thursday; July 5, 2012 at 7 pm due to July 4^th is a Wednesday.

Museum Association: Joyce Besemer

·          See attached.

Community Garden Update: Jennifer Boudreau

·        Doug spoke on Jen’s behalf and stated that the work was started and seeds planted.

Old and New Business

Old Business:

·          Update on Moran Road.

o    Bond Anticipation Note for Moran Road is in the Hands of the Town Lawyer

·          Pavilion update 4 posts need to be replaced at this time. George W. would like to set a date to do this work.

New Business:

·          Resolution to accept Mr. Atkinson retainer for Town of Coventry. See attached resolution. Mr. Atkinson has opted to not charge for services prior to this resolution.

·          There was a discussion of the resolution on gas drilling.  We will talk about this in the working session but no action will be taken.

·          There was a request from Norse Energy to renew the pipeline lease and will be reviewed by the Town Board.

·          Code of Ethics- Final resolution of the Code of Ethics is presented to the board for their approval or disapproval.

·          Resolution: Sale of highway vehicles monies to go to Highway Equipment Reserve.  Resolution:  Moved by Doug, seconded by Bob.  Roll Call: George B., yes; Bob, yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes and George W. yes.

·          Grievance Board resolution per section 25 and 30, Mr. Finelli did not take the Oath of Office within 30 days of sitting on the Board and as such has left the post vacant.  Town Law 25entitled Oaths of Office and Undertaking requires that each officer of the town take an oath of office within 30 days of commencement to Office.  The Clerk is to let the County know of the vacancy.  Marion made a motion to accept the resolution, seconded by Doug. Discussion: George B. stated that it is the proper thing to do. George W. will send a letter to Mr. Finelli as to the resolution.  It has been run through Legal Counsel to make sure it was appropriate.  Roll Call: Doug, yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes; George B., yes and George W. yes.

Public Participation:

·          Kim Michels handed George W. a Moratorium on gas drilling.  Marion is going to review and get more information from Coalition.

·          Chris thanked the board for looking into the pros and cons of the gas drilling.

Audit of Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $88,793.34 as listed on Warrant 6; items 81- 100 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by Doug, seconded by Marion. Discussion: $53,000 is for repairs on Bowbell Road which will be reimbursed by FEMA. Roll call: George B. yes; Bob, yes; Marion, yes; Doug, yes and George W., yes.

General bills in the amount of $2,997.42 as listed on Warrant 6; items 96 - 116 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by George B., seconded by Marion.  Roll call: Bob, yes; Doug, yes; George B., yes; Marion, yes and George W., yes.

Next Working Session: July 2, 2012 at 7 pm

Next Board Meeting: July 11, 2012, at 7 pm

Adjournment: 8:20, Motioned by: George B. Seconded by: Bob

Respectfully Submitted by: Theresa A. Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk       

Coventry Town Board Meeting

May 9, 2012

The meeting was called to order at 7:00

Present: George Broeg, Bob Boudreau, Doug Besemer, Marion Ireland, George Westcott.

Invocation: Doug

Pledge: George W.

Board minutes were reviewed and Doug Besemer asked for a correction to be made to the Grievance Board Appointment of Mr. Finelli that it was not asked if anyone was opposed to the appointment.  And that he wants it noted that he is opposed to this appointment. Marion made a motion at accept minutes as amended.  George B. seconded.  Roll Call: Doug, yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes; George B. yes and George W. yes.

Recognition of Public: Thanked everyone for coming

Town Reports:

Town Supervisors Report: George Westcott

·          Financial update: NYS Emergency Management $57,720.58 more PW to come and could be around $120,000. The 1^st quarter sales tax is $46,710.71.

·          The New Assessor Brian Fitts hours for the month of May will be as follows; May 7 and May 14, 4:30-8:30 p.m.; May 19, 1-5 p.m.; May 21, 9 am-1 pm; As of June 2012 and forward: Mondays 4:30 pm-7:30 pm and every 4^th Monday only 9 am- 12 pm.  The assessors email address is [email protected], phone 607-656-8602.

Highway Superintendents Report: Rick Granger

·          We had to start a project on Buckley Road sooner than planned due to the rain as it was washing out down the stream.  Our cost for us to do the work was going to be $11,000.  ZMK came in at $12,500 and they have all the equipment needed.  Rick was not going to be able to get a big enough excavator.  Money from FEMA will reimburse this amount.

·          Working way around town to smooth out roads for dust oil. This year try to do it at night time. 

·          Working on Wylie Horton to fix drainage with approval from land owner.

·          Rick looked on the GSA website and was able to acquire a Broom for free and, we pay shipping. 

·          Bowbell Road will be black topped next week.

·          Met with the contractor for Moran Road this morning and went over what is expected so that everyone is on the same page.  Road maybe closed for 1 day at the most. 

Ethics Committee Report: Kathy Granger

·          Everything is going great.

·          Have some questions on wording and will be contacting the Association of Towns for legal advice.

Assessor Reports:

·          George W.  is going to ask for a written report to present to the Town if the Assessor cannot make a board meeting.

Historians Report:

·          Tom Sisk said that he will encourage her to get in touch with the board.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company: Nate Barber

·          Saturday May 19^th the Auxiliary will hold a Pulled Pork Dinner.

·          There will be a Chicken Barbeque on the first Sunday of the month.  This past Sunday we sold out within the first hour.

·          If you need your pool filled give the Department a call.

·          This month we had 1 chimney fire, 1 fire, 3 MVA, 2 Mutual Aid Fires and the Squad had 25 calls.

Community Events Committee: Doug Besemer

·          The Spring Fling was very successful.

·          Planning now for the Blueberry Festival on July 28.  Can always use volunteers.

Planning Board: Bruce Warren

·          There was discussion of the semi demolished houses and Jason and Lisa Page came in with a site plan for an Ice Cream stand to be placed on the property closest to the Town Barn and the board approved the plan.  The other owner Mr. Sandel has not responded to the letter that was sent so he will be getting another more forceful letter. We are waiting until after Labor Day at which point if no progress is being made citations will be issued.

·          Mr. Phelan and Mr. Boudreau presented a site plan application for the 1 acre plot behind the Store. Its purpose was for a Manufactured Home Sales.  The application was approved with the stipulation limiting the number of models to 12 as opposed to the 22 requested.

·          Mr. Phelan gave a rundown of what is planned for Echo Lake, and has taken objection to the request for a site plan review and states that it is not required from him.

·          Meeting is on You Tube thanks to Ms. Pat Fiske.

·          Mr. Phelan strongly objected to everything that Mr. Warren stated.

Museum Association: Joyce Besemer

·            See attached.

Community Garden Update: Jennifer Boudreau

·          Lumber has arrived and ready to be set up. Thank you to Mr. Neumann for the use of his fork lift to get the wood off the truck.

Old Business:

·          Right of Way for the Town Highway Garage and Property Owners update. There has been no news and we will be sending a letter when they are ready.

·          Cemetery Mowing Bid.  The Town received one bid from JH Landscaping.  George B. made a motion to accept the bid.  Doug seconded the motion.  Roll Call: George B., yes; Bob, yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes and George W., yes.

·          The board has decided to leave the Historian Slot vacant at this time. Doug made the motion to leave the Historian Spot vacant.  Marion seconded.  Roll Call: George B., yes; Bob, yes; Marion, yes; Doug, yes and George W., yes.

·          George W. went out to look at the pavilion and felt 4 of the posts need to be replaced.  George W. would like to do it as a work session.  Date to be determined. 

·          Opened the bids for the Highway Equipment. Rick feels that we should accept the bids for the John Deere Loader and the Volvo Truck and reject all other equipment bids. George B. made a motion to accept $7,112.00 for the John Deere Loader.  Doug seconded.  Roll Call: Bob, yes; George B., yes; Marion, yes; Doug, yes and George W., yes.  Marion made a motion to accept the bid of $6,413.00 for the Volvo Truck.  George B. seconded.  Roll Call: Marion, yes; Doug, yes; Bob, yes; George B., yes; and George W., yes.  Doug made a motion to reject the bids for the Mack Truck and Gradall.  Marion seconded the motion. Roll Call: Doug, yes; Marion, yes; George B., yes; Bob, yes and George W., yes.

·          Grievance Board will be held on May 23, 2012 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.

New Business:

·          The Town Clerks Summer hours will start June 2 and will go through August 18, 2012.  Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays 4-8 p.m., Saturdays closed. The normal hours will resume after August 18, 2012.

Public Participation:

·          Tom Sisk asked about the Tire Situation and wants the Board plans to about it.  The board feels it is time to have the Town Attorney contact the DEC Lawyer.  Bob made a motion to get the Lawyer involved. George B. seconded.  All are in favor.

·          Kim handed the board information about hydro fracking. She asked if it was possible to start a library with c.d.’s and DVD’s on this and was told that we would have to give equal space to pro gas as well.

·          It was asked about garbage on side roads and who is responsible for picking it up.  Theresa let them know if they find bagged garbage with names let Dick Metzger know and he will checked it out and get it taken care of. 

·          Bruce addressed Mr. Phelan about the planning board issue.

·           

Audit of Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $18,817.68 as listed on Warrant 5; items 62-80 having been audited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Marion.  Seconded by George.  Roll call: Bob, yes; George B., yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes and George W., yes.

General bills in the amount of $3,605.07 as listed on Warrant 5; items 79-95 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval.  Moved by George B. Seconded by Doug.  Roll Call: Doug, yes; Bob, yes; Marion, yes and George W., yes.

The next work session will be June 4, 2012 at 7 p.m. and the next Board meeting will be June 13, 2012 at 7 p.m.

George B. made a motion to adjourned meeting at 8:15.  Bob seconded the motion.  All are in favor.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa A. Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Town of Coventry Town Board Meeting

April 11, 2012

The Board meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.

Roll Call: Present; Marion Ireland, Doug Besemer, Robert Boudreau, George Broeg and George Westcott.

Pledge: George Westcott      Invocation: Doug Besemer

The minutes were looked at and corrections were made. Marion made a motion to accept the minutes as amended.  Doug seconded.  All are in favor.

George recognized the public.

Town Reports

Town Supervisors Report: George Westcott

·          Financial update: Received $25,793.19 and $28,752.35 $3,175.04 for a total of $57,720.58 from NYS Emergency Management.

·          2012 Action Items: If you have anything that you need to have put on the Town Website please give to Theresa a hard copy.

Highway Report: Richard Granger

·          The Garage entrée door and roll up door  are installed.

·          Sweeping the towns road has been in progress..

·          Grading and honing roads are still in progress.

·          FEMA update: mailed out another P4 form to FEMA and just received one to fill out and mail back.

·          Rick will mail out letters to residents about the work being done on Owlville Road. Rick will do this for other road work as it progresses and if there should be a road closure it will explain the detours and an estimate as to how long it will be closed.

·          Rick has been in contact with the DEC for requirements on Moran Road, they have gotten back with a short list of requests. 

·          Rick had a request for improvements to be made on Echo Lake Road. Rick checked through previous minutes and road inventories and found that it has never been a town road. Rick has composed a letter and if the board would like to have Mr. Atkinson look it over and okay he will send it out with the documentation to prove that it has never been a town road.

Ethics Committee: Kathy Granger

·          Making good progress and some of the inquires might prompt some trainings. 

·          Within the next two weeks they may have a good solid copy for the Town Attorney and the Board to look over.

Assessors Report:

·          No Report

Historians Report:

·          No Report

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company Report:

·          On April 21^st there will be an open house at the station and in the evening there will be a Spring Fling dance and barbecue held by the Community Events Committee.

·          Starting on May 6^th the Fire Company will hold a Chicken Barbecue on the first Sunday of the month.  Chicken will be cooked by and ready to purchase at 12:00.

Community Events Committee: Doug Besemer

·          There will be a Spring Fling dance and barbecue held by the Community Events Committee at the Fire House on April 21, 2011, starting at 3:00.

Planning Board: Bruce Warren

·          The Poultry Processing Business was approved,  both a representative from Cornell Cooperative extension and our Code Enforcement Officer will be policing the area.

·          The semi-demolished houses; Jason and Lisa Page were present and discussed plans for the property closest to the Town Barn. We will revisit this item at the September meeting and the progress that has been done at that time.

·          Bob asked about the tire situation. Bruce let him know that it is in the DEC’s hands at this time.

Coventry Museum: Joyce Besemer

·          The first Museum meeting will be held Tuesday May 1^st there will be a cover dish dinner program and business meeting.  The first program will be Vicki House who is the Town of Oxford Historian.  She is the creator of pictorial postmarks that will be touring through the Post Office.

·          The Museum Association received a grant through the Broome Chenango Council of the Arts that will go towards the Civil War Event.

Old Business:

·          Right of Ways for the Town Highway Garage and Property Owners update.  George W.  sent a letter out to the party to see if any progress has been made.

·          Grievance Board update: Doug moved to go in to Executive Session.  Marion seconded. Marion moved to come out of Executive Session for various personnel reasons.  Motion based upon the evidence received and reviewed and accepted from Mr. Finelli as evidence of his residence. The Town Board finds the evidence submitted by Mr. Finelli to be persuasive and welcomes Mr. Finelli to the job of the Grievance Board. Conditioned upon several things: 1. His application to take the class on 5/2/12 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. it is required the Mr. Finelli not only apply to attend but attend and complete and on the basis of that his application to serve on the Grievance Board is welcome. Motions of prior meetings are ratified to that effect.  George B. made the motion.  Bob seconded the motion.  All are in favor.

·          Lawn Care bids for the upcoming summer. The bids were opened.  See attached. Bob made a motion to accept the bid from JH Landscaping. Doug seconded.  All are in favor.

·          Culvert bid update on Bowbell and Moran Road.

o    Bowbell road bid.  ZMK is the 3^rd lowest bid.  The two lower bids dropped out of the bidding due to the fact that we need a performance bond.  ZMK bid $53,000 and we have the money to do this work.  The estimated time for road closure is 3 days.  ZMK can start as soon as we want, the project will take approximately a 1 week.  Bob made a motion to accept ZMKs bid with proof of an Insurance Certificate, Performance Bond and the Road Specs are submitted to the Town Clerk and Highway Superintendent.  George seconded. Roll Call: Marion, yes, Bob, yes, George B., yes, Doug, yes and George W., yes.

o    Moran road bid: The 2 lowest bids dropped out. Boland’s Excavating who are bonded for a $1,000,000, There are time constraints because of DEC protection. DEC has faxed requests rather than requirements, bid was $91,800.   Traffic will be redirecting 3 to 5 days; total time of job should be 14 days (weather permitting). The alternate road during closure will be Stiles road. Marion made the motion to perform the plans and specs the bid instructions and tempered modified by the DEC. The company has no problem putting up a Performance Bond.  Bob seconded the motion. Some discussion was had.  Roll Call: Marion, yes; Doug, yes; George B., yes; Bob, yes and George W., yes.

o    Resolution for Moran Road Bond or Revenue Anticipation note, see Resolution attached.  Roll Call to accept resolution.  George B., yes; Bob, yes; Marion, yes; Doug, yes and George W., yes.

New Business:

·          Assessor resignation and new appointment.  Gloria has resigned due to health problems. There will be a Work session on April 16^th at 7 p.m. to talk with two candidates for the position.  Doug would like Theresa to send a letter to Gloria thanking her for her service.

·          Resolution for the Employee Retirement System (ERS) 315.4. George B.  made a motion to accept the Board Resolution for the Retirement System ERS 315.4.  Marion seconded.  Roll Call: George B., yes; Bob, yes; Marion, yes; Doug, yes and George W., yes.  See attached. 

·          Bids for cemetery mowing will go into the paper to be opened at next month’s meeting.

·          There was discussion about the pavilion repair.  George B. made a motion to look at and if necessary put out for bid. Doug seconded.  All are in favor.

Public Participation:

·          It was asked who gave the 2 candidates names to the town.  Mr. Harris from Real Property Tax gave one, Gloria gave one. This will be an acting appointment.  

·          Kim Michels asked how much the Town would be responsible for the road repairs of Moran Road. We have FEMA monies due to the Town so it should be $0.

·          Julie Moore asked if there has been any word on the Pipelines, George W. let her know nothing has been said.

Audit of Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $19,212.11 as listed on Warrant 4, items 49 -62 having been audited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Moved by George; seconded by Doug.  Roll call:  Doug, yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes; George B., yes and George W. yes.

General bills in the amount of $7,223.63 as listed on Warrant 4, items 61-78 having been audited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Marion; seconded by Bob.  Roll call: Marion, yes; Doug, yes; George B., yes; Bob, yes and George W., yes.

Next meeting: May 9, 2012, at 7 pm

Adjournment 8:30 p.m. time, Motioned by: Marion, Seconded by: Doug

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Town of Coventry Board Meeting

March 14, 2012

The board meeting was opened at 7:00 p.m.

Present: Bob Boudreau, George Broeg, Doug Besemer, Marion Ireland and George Westcott.

George B. asked that the letter that was sent to Mr. Finelli pleased be mentioned in the minutes. George made a motion to approve the minutes as corrected.  Marion seconded. All are in favor.

Public Hearing minutes were looked over.  No changes were made.

Correspondence:

·         George W. received a letter from PERMA. They are doing an audit on the payroll for employees year to date for 12/31/2011 for overtime, double time pay, any vouchers, 1099 pay, job titles, federal 941’s for payroll, any excludable payroll, and if have a highway dept. what was allocated for snow removal, brush removal, water, sewer and refuse for the highway.

·         George W. received an audit from the NYS and Local Retirement System for certain personnel, Richard Metzger, Jack Stafford who is no longer with us so now it would be Gloria Micha, They want to understand what their work hours or what they have worked for the last 90 days. And we have to forward that to them.  It also addressed Mr. Karl Perry for his retirement. Lori Ball, Mary Hamilton and Stephanie Kennedy who were not on file to reflect whether they accepted or rejected the retirement package.

David Crane went over the Insurance packet and the fees for the year. We will be receiving another check from NYMIR Insurance this year.

Supervisor’s Report: George Westcott

·         George gave a financial update the town.

·         Local Law #1 of 2012 Low Income Disability Law has been filed with the state.

·         2012 Action Items – Cathy Granger will give a report on the Ethics Policy review.  Doug Besemer thanked everyone for the work they are doing. Theresa is getting everything updated on the Town Website if you have anything you would like to have posted please get it to Theresa and she will add it.

·         Gloria Micha has changed her hours to Friday nights from 4 to 7.  This change has been noted on the Towns Website and the Coventry Examiner site.

Highway Superintendent: Rick Granger, Jr.

·         We were rejected for the State FEMA 404 Application which for assistance with replacement of some the culvert on Moran Road.  The reason was for the project has already begun because we had already purchased the culvert pipe.  The other reason is the Hazard Mitigation program can replace disaster damaged items.

·         Overhead door fell off the track. Rick had someone repair the door and they put it back up temporarily.  This was discussed during our work session and Rick was told to order a new garage door to replace the one that is in need of replacement.

·         Property that belongs to State on Wylie-Horton and Cueball there are some trees that are in bad shape and are leaning out across the road. This would be in the form of cutting back some trees that are on State land to make line of sight better at the intersection.  We have to buy the trees from the state for $115.  There are a total of 8 trees. We can sell them for the lumber for a possible $60/thousand board foot.  George B. made a motion to spend $115 to purchase the 8 trees, take to the mill and bring back the money and put it in the Highway Budget.  Bob seconded.  Roll Call: George B., yes; Bob, yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes and George W. yes.

·         The 50 % of the snow plows of the trucks. The grader is in getting new cutting edge and water truck is ready for the season. The Sweeper is not very trustworthy to take too far from the garage. George W. asks about longevity of the sweeper and Rick told him that it ran out 10 years ago.

·         Rick will be doing road work and will send out letters to residence if they are going to have to take a detour. The letter will let them know when and how long they will be affected and what the detour will be.

·         Because there was a reserve placed on them we would get charged. The motion to put out to auction 4 vehicles has been retracted.  George B. made a motion to put out to local bid the 4 vehicles. If it is not sold by May to sell them in the online auction, internet auction will be without reserve.  Doug seconded.  Roll Call: Doug, yes; Marion, yes; George B., yes; Bob, yes and George W., yes.

·         Rick would like to purchase a Self Propelled Broom with anticipation of the money that we get from the bid vehicles goes back into the Highway Equipment fund. Bob made a motion to purchase the Street Sweeper for $19,995 now. Utilize the proceeds available now from the balance in the Equipment Reserve and when the 4 piece of equipment are sold those proceeds are put back into this account.   George B. seconded.  Roll Call: Bob, yes; George B. yes; Marion, yes; Doug, yes and George W. yes.  

Ethics Committee Report: Cathy Granger

·         There are a great group of 12 people on the committee and they are doing a good job of looking over the existing policy. They all have different opinions and are working together with some great resources.

Historians Report:

·         No report

Volunteer Fire Company Report: Daron Schultes, Chief, Dan Clark, President

·         There will be an open house on the 21^st of April which will coincide with a Chicken Barbeque and Dance at the Fire House and hopefully it will help bring in some new Volunteers.

·         There is a State Wide Burn Ban from 3/15-5/15.

·         The last pancake breakfast is coming up on April 1^st and then starting May 6 the first Sunday of every month until September there will be a Chicken Barbeque.

·         Dan wanted to let everyone know that there have been some improvements made to the Security of personnel files at the firehouse, also have established an Account for the Vice President who is in charge of fundraising. The account contains $1,000 seed money and it already has made $550 above that anticipating more with Barbecues and the other fundraising.

Community Events Committee: Doug Besemer

·         The Cabin Fever Dance was a great success.

·         On the 21^st of April there will a Spring Fling, Kenyon Hill Band will be performing and there will be a Chicken Barbeque.

·         Beginning to work on the Blueberry Festival planning which will be on Saturday July 28^th. Looking for Volunteers.  There is a possibility of a Fireworks Display and possible carnival rides.

Planning Board: Craig Miller

·         The planning board has been working to address a couple of issue.  The first being the Tire situation.  Code Enforcement is check up on this.

·         Trying to address the three semi demolished houses next to the Town Barn.  Sent a letter to the three owners.

·         Also received a proposal for a Poultry Slaughter House and are looking into these very carefully and thourghly.  

Museum Association Report: Joyce Besemer

·         See attached.

Old Business:

·         Right of Ways of Town Highway Garage and property owners and Grievance Board vacancy update. George W. would like to move to go into Executive session to discuss personnel issues as well as property issues. Doug made motion to go into Executive Session.  George B. Seconded.  All are in favor.  Marion made a motion to move out of Executive Session.  George B. seconded.  Attorney Steve Atkinson spoke to the discussion during Executive Session in respect of the agreement with the neighbor to the Town Garage that is subject to negotiation and contracts because it involves a property transfer will not be talked about anymore so as not to place in jeopardy the transaction.  As to the Grievance Board vacancy the Town has reached an accommodation it thinks will satisfy all concerned and will move forward on that.

·         Resolution: Resolved That the Town Board of The Town of Coventry approves a date change for the Board of Assessment Review Meeting (Grievance Day) from Tuesday, May 22, 2012 to Wednesday, May 23, 2012. Roll call:

New Business:

·         Doug made a motion to table the bids for the Lawn Mowing until next month due to the fact that we only received two bids.  George B. seconded the motion.  All are in favor.

·         Opened the Bids for the Culvert work on Moran and Bowbell Road. (See attached). Marion made a motion to table the bids so as to give the board and Rick a chance to review them to make sure they meet the specifications of what is required for these particular activities. George B. seconded.  Motion was amended to have a work session to discuss and review the bids on the 21^st of March. George B. seconded.  All are in favor.

·         George W. read a letter (see attached) received from Jennifer Boudreau in regards to possibly putting a community garden on Town property.  Marion and Doug both liked the idea.  Doug made a motion to have Jennifer submit her idea to the Planning Board.  George B. seconded. Cathy Granger stated that Page Seed would be happy to donate seeds as

Participation:

·         Kim Michels asked about the work that needs to be done on Moran and Bowbell. Rick let her know what it entails. Kim asked about the Right of Way on Smith Pond (thinking that it has something to do gas franchise) Rick explained that he needed to know if the town had an obligation to maintain the road. 

·         Chris Hoeppner asked about doing something about burned out buildings around the town that have been around for 20 years.  Theresa mentioned that the Town does have an Unsafe Buildings Law.  George W. asked to have the Planning Board look it over and get back to the Town Board on this matter.

·         Julie Moore asked about the Poultry Slaughter House as to where it would be located.

Audit of the Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $6,871.45 as listed on Warrant 3, items 38-48 having been audited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Move by Marion. Seconded by George B. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Bob, yes; George B., yes; Doug, yes and George W. yes.

General bills in the amount of $25,245.36 as listed on Warrant 3, items 36-60 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Doug. Seconded by George B. Roll Call: George B. yes; Bob, yes; Doug, yes; Marion, yes and George W. yes.

The next meeting will be held on April 11, 2012  at 7 p.m.

Marion made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:30 p.m.  George B. seconded.  All are in favor.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Town of Coventry

Public Hearing

February 9, 2012

Opened the Public Hearing for Local Law #1 providing for a partial exemption from
Town Property Taxes to persons with disabilities who have limited income at 6:30.

Roll Call:  Present; Marion Ireland, Doug Besemer, Bob Boudreau, George Broeg and George Westcott:

Invocation: Doug Besemer

Pledge: George Westcott

George W. read the Local Law #1.

It was asked who this will affect and what impact will it have on the Taxes.  At this time it only applies to 1 person in the town but it could open itself up to additional persons of the Town of Coventry.

George W. asked for a motion to close the hearing.  Marion made the motion to close the public hearing.  Doug seconded the motion.  All are in Favor.

Coventry Town Board Meeting

February 9, 2012

The regular board meeting was opened at 7:00.

The board reviewed the minutes of the January meeting.  Doug made a motion to accept the Organizational meeting minutes.  Marion seconded.   All are in favor,

Review of the regular board minutes. It was asked by George B. that in the minutes where a citizen volunteered to help should say Jan O’Shea volunteered. George B.  would like it entered that he does not approve of Jan O’Shea working on Code of Ethics. He also wanted for the Grievance Board to specify what other board minutes; George W. stated they are the October 2010 and October 2011 minutes. George B. asked what we are specifying on those minutes. George W. says to define and to understand because you have two sets of minutes one says one thing and the other says something different with appointments to the Grievance Board. George B. made a motion to accept with correction.  Bob seconded.  All are in favor.

George W. recognized the public attending the meeting.

Correspondence:

·          George W. received a letter for Federal NRCS assistance this will help out with the Flood Damage.

Town Reports

Supervisors Report: George Westcott

·          The 2011 Annual Financial Report for the State has been submitted to the State Comptroller and is available for viewing in the Town Clerks office.

·          Financial Update: Real Property Tax Revenue of $107,500 paid to the Fire Dept. and 97,841 to Highway Savings. The Town received $49,987 for the 4^th quarter sales tax and deposited to the General Fund. Highway Dept.  balance in checking $51,074.52. Savings is $64,841.47. The General checking is $99,041.41. General Savings is $59,056.24. Capital Reserves are $38,545.21. Capital reserve for highway equipment $46,695.07, Coventry Recreation area capital reserve is $7,123.00, dedicated savings rec. enhancement is $8,669. The reserve and dedicated totals were $101,032.28. Total Cash assets were $375,045.92 as of February 2, 2012.  See the monthly income report for the reasons the moves were made.

·          2012 Action items- Ethics policy review:  Jan spoke to the fact that our Ethics policy does not have a Board of Ethics and it needs a Board to deal with the Ethics issues that may come up. The State has asked all Municipalities to go through their Code of Ethics and update if needed. Jan has gone through the policy and states that it is pretty adequate but terribly outdated. George asked for volunteers to sit on a committee to go through the Ethics. The following people Volunteered, Joe Finelli, Janice O’Shea, Janine Hakim, Tom Sisk, Bob Boudreau, Kathy Granger, and Chris Hoeppner. Town Website is a work in progress, some of the items have been updated, and a new FAX machine has been purchased. The SPCA contract has been signed. The  2 % Tax Cap for the 2012 budget paperwork has been submitted to the State Comptroller.

Highway Superintendents Report: Rick Granger

·          The last of the Paperwork was turned in to FEMA today.  Discussion was had about Moran Road and Bowbell Road.  George B. made a motion to put Bids out for Moran Road and Bowbell Road for culvert projects.  Marion seconded.  All are in favor.

·          Limited snowfall has created some savings in that we have not had the overtime, sand usage and fuel usage.

·          The pumps for the Fuel Tanks need to be replaced as they no longer have working read out meters and this is important for tracking fuel usage. Our fuel supplier has given a quote of $963.00. We need two.

·          Rick would like approval and a motion to surplus and auction off with Tietsworth Internet Auctions, 4 pieces of Equipment.  The equipment is as follows: 1 Mack Dump Truck, 1 544C John Deere Loader, 1 Gradall (1990) and 1 Volvo Dump Truck.  Rick would like to use the money from the auction to purchase a used self propelled sweeper at $19,995.00. George B. made a motion to put to Auction the 4 pieces of Equipment for reasonable Bluebook price.  Doug seconded.  All are in favor.

Assessors report: Gloria Micha

·          See attached.

Code Enforcement Officer: Dick Metzger

·          No report

Historian Report: Faith Sisk

·          Asked about when the Seminar for Historians will be held.  It will be in April.

·          Faith received a couple of phone calls asking about some items that they would like to donate to the town, but wanted  to know where they would be stored.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company: Dan Clark

·          The pancake breakfast went well.

·          It is asked that if you plan on doing any burning please be very careful as the grass is quite dry.  There is no more open burning and if you have a grass fire the Ranger comes out and there is a hefty fine.

Community Events Committee: Doug Besemer

·          There will be a Cabin Fever Dance on February 18 at the Coventry Fire House.  There will be a Chicken BBQ and Ribs dinner served at 3 p.m. until gone.  The dance will be from 7-11.

Planning Board: Bruce Warren

·          A plan has been brought to the board for a Poultry Slaughter House on 206. 

·          It was asked what is happening with the Tires.  Bruce let everyone know that the Tires are in the DEC’s control.

Museum Association: Joyce Besemer

·          The Museum is closed for the winter but if someone would like to take a tour it can be arranged.

·          Working on a Chenango County Commemorative project which spans the 4 years of the Civil War which will include the 8^th Annual Civil War Event in October.

·          The Museum Director received a phone call from Sara James of Coventry, England. She interviewed the Museum Director via phone and the interview was broadcast on BBC radio live.

Old Business:

·          Bob made a motion to approve the Local Law # 1 of 2012 Partial Exemption from Town Property Taxes to persons with disabilities who have limited income.  Marion seconded. Roll Call: Doug, yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes; George B., yes and George W., yes.  Local Law #1 of 2012 is passed and Theresa will send it to the State for filing.

·          There was some discussion of the grievance board. George B. made a motion to go into Executive Session to discuss a personnel issue with the lawyer.  Marion seconded.  Marion made a motion to come out of Executive Session.  Doug seconded.  The resolution from October 2010 was ill advised and may be wrong legally.  The resolution that is before the board now is as follows: That this Town Board affective this date February 8, 2012 determines that the actions taken at the October 2010 Board meeting regarding members of the Grievance Board are deemed void.  The Town Board determines it is in the best interest of the town to permit those persons who were otherwise displaced to serve through the balance of their term.   The October 2011 meeting which provided the appointment of certain persons is deemed accepted, subject to the qualifications and evidence of those qualifications by the person appointed specifically Mr. Joseph Finelli . He has until the next board meeting to  submit such evidence as he deems necessary to the town to meet  the requirements for service on the Grievance Board.  The actions taken at the October 2010 meeting are deemed vacated.  Doug made a motion that we accept the recommendations of our Attorney.  Marion seconded.  All are in favor.  

·          The Right of Ways for the Town Highway Garage and the adjacent  Property Owners is moving along.  Doug has a Draft of an agreement that was written up by the Lawyer and the Draft will be sent to the Owner of Record.  Rick is going to locate all the pins so landowner can see where marks are.  Marion made a motion to send agreement to Land Owner.  Bob seconded.  All are in favor.

·          The Parking Lot lighting has been replaced with a new light assembly and “No Parking” signs have been put in place.

New Business:

·          Gloria needs to change the date of Grievance day from Tuesday May 22 to Wednesday, May 23.  The resolution will be submitted at next month’s meeting.

·          George W. asked for a motion to appoint Bruce Warren as Chairperson of the Planning Board. Doug made the motion to appoint Bruce as Chairperson.  Marion seconded.  Doug, Bob, George W. and Marion voted yes. George B. voted no.

·          Resolution: Acknowledgement of Completion of a required examination by the Coventry Town Board of the Town of Coventry Justice Court’s records for Justice Russell Lerwick were examined and found correct of the period of August 2010 through November 2011.  Roll Call: Doug, yes; Marion, yes; George B., yes; Bob, yes and George W., yes.

Audit of the Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $23,665.69 as listed on Warrant 2, items 17-37 having been audited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Marion.  Seconded by Bob.  Roll Call: George B., yes; Bob, yes; Marion, yes; Doug, yes and George W., yes.

General bills in the amount of $6,737.05 as listed on Warrant 2, items 15-35 having been audited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Doug. Seconded by George B.  Roll Call: Bob, yes; Doug, yes; George B., yes; Marion, yes and George W., yes.

The Next meeting will be held on March 14, 2012 at 7 p.m.

Marion made a motion to adjourn at 10.45.  Bob seconded.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Coventry Town Board Organizational Meeting

January 11, 2012

      The board meeting was called to order at 7 p.m.

       Present were Marion Ireland, Doug Besemer, George Broeg, Robert Boudreau and George Westcott.

       The Oath’s of Office were done for all new and re-elected members.

        Organizational meeting

·         The Board will meet the second Wednesday of every month at 7:00 P.M.

·         The Town's official newspapers are the Chenango American and the Tri-Town News.

·      The Town will use NBT Bank as the depository for all funds.

·         The mileage for 2012 will be 55.5 cents per mile per the IRS.

Marion made a motion to accept Board Meeting frequency, newspaper, depository information and mileage as presented.  George B. seconded.  All are in favor.

Appointments are as follows:

·         Deputy Supervisor - Marion Ireland

·      Budget Officer- George L. Westcott

·         Assessor - Gloria Micha - appointed on Dec 30, 2011 Board Meeting

·                      Town Attorney - Stephen B. Atkinson

·          Dog Control Officer - Bob Webb

·                    Health Official - Chenango County Public Health 

·      Code Enforcement Officer - Richard Metzger        

·         Registrar of Vital Statistics, Records Management and Tax Collector - Theresa Schultheis

·      Town Webmaster - Theresa Schultheis

·                     Deputy Town Clerk - Dara Smith (appointment by Theresa Schultheis)

·         Clerk of the Court - Stephanie Kennedy

·                     Town Historian - Faith Sisk to perform as Acting Historian for 90 days

·                     Town Bookkeeper - Christine Santullo

·         Town Hall Custodian - Mary Hamilton

George B. made the motion to accept appointments. Doug seconded.  All are in favor with the understanding that Faith Sisk is to report to the Town Board every month.

Procurement Policy: There is one change to the Procurement policy. Guideline 4: Less than$25,000 but greater than $7,000 require a written RFP and written/fax proposals from (3) contractors.  Last year’s amount was $35,000. Marion made the motion to use the updated procurement policy. Seconded by George B.  All are in favor.

Ethics Policy: George W. made motion to use the current ethics policy. Marion seconded.  All are in favor.

The Supervisor is granted permission to pay the following without audit: Postage, NYS Contributions, Health Insurance, NYS Taxes, any bill that will incur late charges (electric, gas etc.) and Social Security transfers. George B. made motion to grant permission to pay bills. Doug Seconded.  Amended to allow Deputy to pay bills when Supervisor is not available.  George B. made a motion to accept as amended.  Bob seconded.   All are in favor.

Planning Board:

Bruce Warren         Lee Schultz     Scott Bovier

Art Hanrahan         Greg Miller

George B. made motion to accept these appointments to the Planning Board as presented. Bob seconded.  All are in favor.

Doug made motion to close the Organizational Meeting and open the monthly Board Meeting. Marion seconded.  All are in favor

Regular Meeting

1/11/2012

The regular meeting was called to order at 7:20.

George read an excerpt from the Town Law Book for running a Town Board Meeting.

Review the December 14, 2011 Board Meeting Minutes.  George B. made motion to accept the minutes.  Doug seconded. All are in favor.

George W. thanked the public for coming.

Correspondence:

·         George W. received a letter from the Office of the State Comptroller about the 2% Tax Cap.

·         George W. received a letter from the County Personnel Office that the 2012 Town Payroll Submission is set.

Town Supervisor’s Report: George Westcott

·         The Annual Financial Report for the State is in progress

·         2012 Action Items-  1. Update/review ethics policy as required. 

2. The Town Website will be updated by Theresa. George Broeg asked her if she is able to do this. She told the board that they would be the first to know if she could not keep up.

3. Volunteer assistance- George W. has accepted assistance from some citizens who have volunteered their time.

Highway Superintendent Report: Richard Granger

·         The crew has been picking up tires and garbage along the roads.

·         There will be all new Street signs put up throughout town due to new regulations from the State DOT.

·         The concrete barriers are now in place.

·         There is one employee out and the town is down one truck.

 Historians Report:

·         Planning to take a trip to Edmeston.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company Report: Daron Schultes

·         Daron Schulthes has been elect Chief, Dan Clark is Council President. 

·         Business plan for the year is to hold more fundraisers starting with Pancake breakfasts for the winter months and possibly have a Chicken Barbecue 1^st  Sunday of every month in the summer.

·         There are some truck issues that have to be addressed. The fire company is putting together a truck committee.

·         There will be new radios that will be able to reach the Sheriff and the Highway Dept.

Planning Board

·         Looking into Semi demolished homes that are around town.

·         Discuss the Notice of Violation for the Tires.

·         Looking into the sign locations throughout the town.

Community Events Committee:

·         There will be a Chicken and Biscuit Dinner on January 21^st from 4 p.m. until the food is gone.

·         The Cabin Fever Dance will be held on February 18 at the Firehouse.

·         The committee is working on a calendar of events for the year.

Old Business:

·         Right of Ways for the Town Highway Garage and Property Owners of the store. Doug will be heading this up with the Town Attorney. George W.  made the motion to let Doug work with Attorney on the Right of way.  Bob seconded.  All are in favor.

·         Grievance Board Vacancies will be discussed with the Town Lawyer because of contradictory motions in past minutes.  Marion made motion to allow Town Lawyer to look into this matter.  Doug seconded the motion. All are in favor.

New Business:

·         Review and accept new Town of Coventry “Oath of Office” document.  Bob made a motion to accept the new Oath of Office form.  George B. seconded.  All are in favor.

·         Marion made a motion to move the “Payroll” monies from “Contractual A1340.4 to A1340.1 in the amount of $3850 for the Town of Coventry Bookkeeper.  George B. seconded.  All are in favor.

·         Provide a phone stipend of $35 per month to Town Assessor for the Towns Personnel to be able to contact her for assessment issues.  George B. made a motion to allow $35/month stipend for the Assessors cell phone.  Doug seconded.  All are in favor.

Public Recognition:

·         Kim Michels passed on information on the pipeline to the board.

·         Chris Hoeppner asked about the exemption for Low Income Disability .  George W. will follow up and check with Afton and Bainbridge on their law.  The attorney will prepare the law and we will hold a public hearing on January 25, 2012 at 7:00.  You can obtain the application on line and complete it.  We will hold applications until we know the law is passed.

·         John wished the board good luck.

·         Patty asked about Faith taking the Oath of Office.

·         Dan Clark asked about the lighting in the parking lot and the possibility of placing No Parking signs in the area of the school house. 

Audit of Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $9,729.49 as listed on Warrant 1, items 1-16 having been audited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Moved by George B.; seconded by Marion.  Roll call:  George B. yes; Bob, yes; Marion, yes; Doug, yes and George W. yes.

General bills in the amount of $4,030.89 as listed on Warrant 1, items 1-14 having been audited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Marion, Yes; seconded by George B..  Roll call: Marion, yes; Doug, yes; George B., yes; Bob, yes and George W. yes.

George B. made a motion to go into Executive session.  Bob seconded. Roll call: Doug, yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes; George B., yes and George W., yes.

George W. moved to come out of Executive session.  Marion seconded.  All are in favor.

Next meeting: February 8, 2012, at 7 pm

Adjournment: 8:30 p.m. Motioned by: Doug, Seconded by: George. 

Respectfully submitted by Theresa A. Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Coventry Town Board Meeting

October 12, 2011

The meeting was called to order at 7 p.m.

Roll Call:  Present; Marion Ireland, Harvey Fletcher, George Broeg, Bob Boudreau, John Phelan.

Invocation: John

Pledge: John

The minutes of the September 29, 2011 meeting were given to the board and there was one correction, this was to change Mr.

Davy to Ron Davy. Harvey made a motion to accept the minutes as corrected.  George seconded.  All are in favor.  Carried. Bob

asked Theresa if Quick books was set up on the computer.  Theresa told him no due to computer problems. 

Highway Superintendent Report: Richard Granger, Jr.

· There has been a FEMA Kickoff at the Sheriffs’ Station in Norwich. A few things were pointed out to the Highway

Superintendents. There are two categories:  Small category and Large Category.  We fall under the small. This is

$63,900 per project.  The benefit to this is that we get the money up front. Anything over and above $63,900, you get

the money at the end of the project.

· DEC is granting a stay to Chenango, Broome and Tioga Counties, extending their permission to get into the creeks to

straighten until November 7.  This so we can straighten out culverts without locating a permit.  After November 7 we

have to go back to having a permit for any  work in a creek.

· Rick is pursuing Mitigation for the Moran Road Project. If he follows the proper procedures, they will pay 87% plus the

cost to upgrade to the larger pipe. It only qualifies it because  has been a repetitive problem.

· Have redressed culverts around the area by upsizing many of the culverts from a two-foot culvert to a 4-foot culvert. 

· Not all the damage has been repaired from the flood.  They will be gotten to as soon as possible.

· Worked on some dirt road work, honing and brush.  

· Will start hauling sand to get ready for the winter.

· The new containment for the Kerosene Tank is built and will be placed in the next day or two.  This will put us in

compliance with the DEC.

· Ron Davy asked Rick if the FEMA amount of $63,900 was one lump sum or per project.  Rick let him know that this is

per project.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company:

· No Report

Planning Board: Bruce Warren

· It was a good meeting.

Correspondence:

· Theresa read a letter from Tom Sisk asking about Historian Items.  See attached.  On October 2010, there were approximately 18 items listed that she has collected.  Pat has started a catalog of items.  Ms. Fiske feels the items that  were donated were entrusted to her for a historical center and she feels that it is up to the people that donated these items as to what to do with them.  John stated there are two cases in the back to display these items. She will give the  items to  George by October 15.

Old Business:

· John has spoken with three Attorney’s that have expressed interest in the position of Town Attorney.  Two of the  three have since backed out.  John is planning to schedule an interview with the one Attorney who is still interested  sometime next week and will let the board know what day that will be. This Gentleman came highly recommend by another Law Firm and has experience in Natural Gas and Municipal Law.

· John would like to move to clarify that the part time clerk that has been helping with John’s work was hired on

9/28/10.  John knows that the board moved to approve her hiring but did not know on what date that was.  All are in favor.

New Business: 

· The fax machine is installed.  At this time it is only for fax and copying with possibility  of network for other

computers.

· Marion wanted to go back to verify the hire date of new assistant.  Marion stated that in the February 9, 2011 minutes, John hired Lori Ball to be his assistant to help data entry and has been doing this job since November and is being paid out of 1620.4. John says it is in the minutes now and is date back to 9/28/2010. 

· A request has been asked for a Low Income Disabled Tax Exemption. Years ago that the Town did not properly adopt

a Local Law for this and the ORPS  this year denied the town this exemption.  The Town passed a resolution when in reality it had to be a Local Law.  John looked for a motion to create and adopt a Local Law that grants a tax reduction for Low Income Disabled persons.  Bob made the motion. George seconded but asked if this was only for Disabled  people.  Ron Davy asked what is considered Low Income.  All are in favor.

· John made a motion to deny use of the Town Hall Facilities to any organization or anyone while the voting machine is secured and in place prior to any election. George seconded. Harvey asked if this included the Sheriff’s Department.  It was brought up that this is happening just before a meeting being held on November 6.  It was asked if other towns go to this extreme. Roll Call: Harvey, no, Marion, no; George, yes; Bob, yes and John, yes.  There were 3 votes yes, 2  votes no.

· John stated that last year we made a motion to appoint Joe Finelli to the Board of Assessment Review. John moved that Mr. Joe Finelli of Afton, NY is appointed to the Coventry Board of Assessment Review to replace Wilbur Day whose terms expired on September 30, 2011.   George seconded.  All in favor.  Carried.

· Theresa gave John the SPCA contract and told John it is identical to contracts from past years.  John will look it over and sign it and send it back to them.

Audit of the bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $26,244.89 as listed on Warrant 10, items 159-174: having been audited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Moved by Bob.  Seconded by George.  Roll call: Harvey, yes; Marion, yes; George, yes; Bob, yes and

John, yes. 

General bills in the amount of $4,883.43 as listed on Warrant 10, items 165-179: having been audited by the Board are submitted for approval.  Moved by George.  Seconded by Bob.   There was discussion about a bill from the Lawyer.  George asked about a voucher that was placed in the bills for the Museum.  It was stated that this is a line item in the budget.  John said  it is in the budget but is not necessarily spent. Bob made a motion not to pay the Museum Association.  Harvey mentioned that  it is in the budget and that would be like not paying the SPCA. George motioned remove the $500 from the bills and to table the bill until next month for more consideration.  Roll Call: George, yes; Bob, yes; Harvey, no; Marion, no and John, yes.  Total

General bills is to be modified to $4,383.43.  Harvey asked what a bill from Chris Hoeppner as for.  To clarify it is to update the Quick Books from the Bookkeepers records. The NYMIR Check for $1,237, 31 came and we will get one again next year. George made a motion to pay the general bills in the amount of $4,383.43. Bob Seconded. Roll Call: Bob, yes; George, yes; Marion, yes;

Harvey, yes and John, yes.  Carried

Public Input:

Marion asked about year to date reports.  She has not received anything showing what we have year to date to help us with the budget.  John will try to get it up just the way Marion would like to see prior to any motion on the budget.

Ron Davy asked about the Norse Energy. He has seen activity on Tuttle Hill wonders what is going on.  The intent is to adopt the County Highway use policy.  Ron asked about some of the other Towns like Smyrna if they have options.  John stated that companies are proactive and will pave it before they come in to do any well.  Rick let everyone know that he has not had any contact with anyone as of yet.

Ron asked what is happening about a part time Assessor.  According to John after discussing with the Attorney and George Broeg apparently the time window is short enough that we do not need to bring in a temporary Assessor.  Marion asked when  the next meeting for the Assessor would be. There will be another meeting on October 21, at 10 a.m.

Greg Miller asked if there has been any more information about Leatherstocking.  It depends on what is going to happen with Amphenol as to what they will be doing.  

Long Hill Road is being worked on and they plan on having it finished by the middle of October.  The Oxford end of Moran Road is being contracted out to Burrell’s Excavating Service. 

Tom Sisk asked how detailed the Job of Town Supervisor.  It is about 9.2 days at the County w/o being Chairman of committee.  Town is 11 days. It is considered pretty much full time.

The next meeting will be held on November 9, 2011 at 7 p.m. and our meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk.

The minutes below are as they came from the Town Clerk, these are from prior to board approval. I did not receive corrected minutes.

Coventry Town Board Meeting

August 10, 2011

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.

Roll Call: Present were Harvey Fletcher, Marion Ireland, Bob Boudreau, George Broeg and John Phelan.

Invocation: Pat Fiske Pledge: John Phelan

The minutes of the July 13, 2010 meeting were read. Harvey moved that they be approved after they have been read to the public. John asked that they be read after the corrections have been made. George seconded. The one correction is $242 for sand recovery, it should be $253. All are in favor. Carried. The Town Clerk read the minutes.

Supervisor’s Report: John Phelan

• Sales Tax Checks have been higher this year. We received $51,185.84 placed in general savings. This is for the second quarter.

• Mortgage Tax is lower this year.

Highway Superintendents Report: Rick Granger, Jr

• See Attached.

• John gave Rick credit for a job well done in keeping cost down.

• Rick stated that the County asked if we wanted to have them repaint the lines on Moran Road.

• A new containment tank needs to be placed under the Kerosene tank. The cost is $1,500. This is last thing that has to be done for requirements.

• Cemetery Mowing: Harvey moved to accept the one bid for the remainder of the year, which was $200 for mowing all three cemeteries every occasion, frequency to be determined by Rick to JH Lawn Service. Bob seconded. All are in favor.

• Letter from Congressman, FEMA has come out with Mitigation Grant $100,000 to Fixing Road Sluice Pipes.

• Marion asked what has happened with Moran Road as John was going to look into Interest rates with John Dierlein to fix it the right way. Harvey asked if the pipe we purchased would qualify for FEMA.

• The Barn needs new insulation. John has a contractor coming into look at raising the roof 6 blocks. Another agency has offered to do an energy audit.

Fire Company Report:

• No Report

Planning Board:

• Working on a letter to Chenango Valley Ranch.

Community Events Committee: Doug Besemer

• Fantastic Blueberry Festival, Medi-Vac Helicopter was at the event. All had a good time.

Old Business:

• There has been some response to Ad for a Town Attorney. An Ad will be placed in a wider circulation area. John talked with Mr. Ferrarese who mentioned some attorneys that might be interested.

• The Security System the Town is looking to buy will need to be a internet based system. It just has to be a dedicated computer where it can be an internet capable. Bill is looking into purchasing.

• Harvey asked about a confidential letter that was in his box that pertains to the Assessor. He would like to know what is going on at this time. How much money does the town plan on spending on this issue. He feels like there should be a cap set. It should not be open ended. And how much an hour is it. John stated it is a personnel issue and would have to go into executive session to discuss it. There was a hearing last week and the Assessor is suspended. Marion asked if this is with pay. As far as John knows, the first 30 day no pay and after that is with pay. How much an hour is this, it is $180/hour for the assistant and $205/hour for the actual attorney. This month we are at $61.50 this was for 15 mins. For the year, we are at $1,733.11 plus $15.00. Mr. Besemer asked about the security of the records and who has the keys to

the cabinets. He was told that John has the keys. Mr. Besemer stated that he did not find that satisfactory due to the fact that John is not qualified to hold the key.

New Business:

• The Retirement System Contribution came in this year at $30,000, which is up from $22,000 last year.

• The 2011 Equalization Rate as determined by the State Board Assessment is 100%.

• John moved to renew 2012 contract for Chenango County Sheriffs Dept. use of the addition, for a Sheriff’s substation and authorize the supervisor to sign any contracts forth coming for the year 2012. George seconded. All are in favor. Carried.

• Harvey moved that the Coventry Town Board pass and enter into final negotiations with Leatherstocking LLC. for the proposed gas pipeline in the Coventry Township. Marion seconded. Discussion: Harvey amended motion Pass a resolution to enter into final negotiations with Leatherstocking LLC. Marion seconded. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Harvey, yes; Bob, yes; George, yes and John, yes. All are in Favor. Resolution is passed and we will move forward into negotiations. Theresa read a letter from Elaine Zeblocki. The letter is attached. Everything is negotiatable. Pat Fiske asked about some email that was sent to her. It spoke of use of eminent domain on a case-by-case bases that requires public referendum. How do you explain this? John did have some discussion. Pat also asked John about having an Open Referendum ballot vote on whether or not that we even have gas drilling in Coventry. There are 108 signatures against Leatherstocking Franchise, 7 of these had signed twice.

Audit of the Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $43,005.30 as listed on Warrant 8: items 128-144, having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by George. Seconded by Harvey. Roll Call: Harvey, yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes; George, yes and John, yes.

General bills in the amount of $5.430.56 as listed on Warrant 8: items 122-145, having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by George. Seconded by Marion. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Harvey, yes; George, yes; Bob, yes and John, yes.

Recognition of Public:

• Mr. Miller asked about personal information that the Assessor kept in the files. It was explained that this is information needed to file for Star exemption. It was asked where the files are and if they are locked. They are and John has the keys. It was asked if there is a cap on how much

• Mr. Davy asked if the Assessor is suspended from his duties. He is until the situation is resolved.

• Mr. Davy asked about money to fix the roads from flooding it seems like town of Coventry, Greene, Oxford are all in the same jam and what has the County done. There was some discussion on what is being done and the options that are available.

Harvey moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:00. Bob seconded Next meeting will be on 9/14/2011 at 7 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa A. Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Coventry Town Board Meeting

September 14, 2011

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.

Roll Call: Present were Marion Ireland, Harvey Fletcher, John Phelan, Robert Boudreau and George Broeg.

John asked if the members of the Board had a chance to go over the minutes of the August meeting, and if so, were there any  corrections. The first correction was that Jack was not suspended but put on administrative leave. The second was to the Surveillance system that is an Independent system; it does not need an outside computer. Bob made a motion to accept the minutes as corrected. George seconded. All are in Favor.

 Highway Superintendents Report: Rick Granger, Jr.

. We are down one person at this time.

. A woman from FEMA stopped and gave Rick flyers for any residents. The flyer has number that you can call if you have had any damage from the flood.

. Overall, we are in the same shape as last time. Rick has managed to get around quickly, to document the damage to the roads. We have started the repairs.

. The roads that are damaged are the same as last month. Damaged roads are Bowbell, Cahoon, North, Moran, Stiles, Ives, Wylie-Horton, Cueball, and Davy. Rick is still doing assessments to see how much they are damaged.

. Rick will be ordering some more sluice pipe. If anyone notice if end of driveway’s are being washed out or any other areas do not be afraid to contact the Highway Dept. Just let them know where and what is happening.

. Need to purchase more tires for trucks.

. Rick had a question about where they stand on Fuel since they have been going non-stop.

. Oxford has been helping us and we have been helping Oxford. Our Loader is being used by the State.

. County road 30 will remain closed for an extended amount of time. Job has to be bid out for repairs.

. FEMA as of 2 weeks ago is still working on April flood. We did receive 10” of rain compared to 16” the difference being that 16” was in 2 days whereas the 10” was in 1 day.

. Please be careful on any roads.

Volunteer Fire Company: Julie Clark

. Julie handed the board the Fire Budget for 2012. The budget was lowered from $110,000 to $107,500.

. The Pancake Breakfast’s will start October 2 and be held on the first Sunday of every month through April.

. There is a Ham and Turkey raffle be planned either the first or second weekend of November.

. There will be a Motorcycle Raffle, the tickets will be $30.00 and the drawing will be in the spring.

. The entryway to the Firehouse door is being replaced due to the Ice damage from the winter. There will be a peaked

roof instead of a flat roof over the door.

Planning Board:

. The meeting was flooded out.

 Old Business:

. We have received the Security System for the Highway Department. The unit does not require a separate computer. It will record for up to 16 days.

. The flood damage Rick has it covered.

. There will a Special Board meeting on September 28 at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall. It will be to present the Town Clerk with the 2012 tentative budget. In addition, any other such business that should come before the board will be taken care of at that time.

. Harvey asked what the total that has been spent on Lawyers fees to date. John stated that so far we have spent $1,733.11 with another $2,952 for tonight.

. The Town will receive the CHIPS money from the State on Friday in the amount of $96,305.68. The money has already spent.

. Marion asked about the Taxation and Finance Bill for $1,150. In December of 2010 the payroll clerk failed to file a correct form 45 leaving to employees off. She turned it in on January 31st. It was returned for a correction which she made and returned back. The State penalized us for the error in the amount of $50 per employee because it was sent

in incorrectly.

. Harvey asked if we have received a refund back from NYMIR. We have not received any rebate as of this time.

. John stated that the Quick Books disc has always been next to the binders in the office. Quick books can be downloaded on the Town Clerks computer at anytime. The data will be available anytime.

. The Town has received two FOIL requests. One was for anything Gas related. The second one was for Quarterly combined Withholding, Wage Reporting, Unemployment Insurance, which is 45 MN for all of 2010 and the first two quarters of 2011. As well as copies of time cards for Lori. If Chris does not have them, John says that he is sure we

have them.

Audit of Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $23,098.83 as listed on Warrant 9: items 145-158, having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by Marion. Seconded by George. Roll Call: Harvey, yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes; George, yes and

John, yes.

General bills in the amount of $9,630.61 as listed on Warrant 9: items 146-164, having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by Bob. Seconded by George. Roll Call: Harvey, yes; Marion, yes; Bob, yes; George, yes and John, yes.

Public Participation:

. Marcia Miller as Mayor of the Village of Greene thanked the Fire Company for all the help they gave in pumping out cellars and general help in the village. She also let everyone know that Senator Libous is encouraging everyone who has flood damage to call FEMA, the number is 1-800-621-FEMA. This is for individual who have any damage.

. Kim asked about the Security System. If there is need for it have if we made a police report for any of the missing items or damage done. John mentioned that we could have the board meetings videoed. Second item Kim asked about was about the Houben well with the flooding if anyone has checked it for leakage. She also had a test done on

a stream that is in the area and it over the limit for arsenic. John stated that DEC is testing Mud samples and have a storage area for this mud.

. Doug asked about if there would be a decrease in the insurance for having a Surveillance System. He was told it was possible.

. State Comptroller has been in and John spent a couple of days with him. The Comptroller was called in by some residents of the town. He is looking over the Supervisor’s Books, the Town Clerks Books, the Judges books and the Highway books.

. One resident voiced his opinion on FEMA and that as a true American stated we do not want any government Handouts. Says it is not our character. John’s comment to this is that no one in this room is a government hand out type of person but as for municipalities, the money is budgeted for towns and when it comes to $300,000 to $500,000 to fix a project and the Towns budget is only about $475,000 for the year we have to do what we have to do. Harvey made a comment: We help other countries around the world why can’t we help ourselves first for once. Marion asked if we don’t get any money from FEMA who is going to pay for the roads or just leave them as they are.

. Tom Siske made a comment about having the minutes ready in a timely fashion. And that they are a month behind on the Website. Theresa commented on the fact that the August minutes were done and sent out two weeks before the

September meeting. They were sent to the webmaster and have not been put on as of yet. Pat Fiske asked Theresa just out of curiosity how long it actually takes to go through the recorded meetings to type up the minutes. It takes about 16 hours maybe more to go through the minutes and then type them up. Tom also asked for a copy of the

quick book disc of monthly bills and information. Marion asked if John could print out a report for each month expenses and incomes.

. Harvey had some questions about the Assessor being out on administrative leave. A letter was sent on July 15. He is still on administrative leave. We were told we would have some questions answered within thirty days. It has definitely been more than thirty days since July 15. With properties in the town being bought and sold who is going to

make the calculations and put them into the proper files if we have an Assessor that is on administrative leave. What is the update. John stated that the board will be advised when we will be interviewing Assessor candidates. On September 28, we will be appointing an acting Assessor in the absence of the assessor we have and they will continue until which time the matters has been sorted out.

. Mr. Dudden asked where he could he find the results of the Primary election. He was told by Pat to check her website and the Chenango County Board of Election.

. Mrs. Doty asked about the significance of the signatures of the gas petition. She also asked to open to an actual vote.

Bob made a motion to adjourn the meeting. George seconded. All are in favor.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Town of Coventry Board Meeting

July 13, 2011

The meeting was called to order on July 13 at 7 p.m.

Roll Call: Present; Marion Ireland, Harvey Fletcher, George Broeg, Robert Boudreau and John Phelan

Invocation: John Pledge: John

The June minutes were read to the board. The minutes were handed to the Board instead of mailing due to a glitch in the Town Clerks computer that would not allow her to get to the network printed or anything that dealt with networking. George made motion to accept. Harvey asked about the NYMIR Check. John said we would be getting, not have already received. Harvey seconded the motion with correction made. All are in favor.

Fire Company Volunteer Company:

 No Report

Community Events Committee: Doug Besemer

 The committee is getting ready for the Blueberry Festival on Saturday, July 30, 2011. There will be possible display of Helicopter, Sheriffs canine and Rescue Dogs.

Highway Superintendent Report: Rick Granger, Jr.

 Rick made a report on the Flood Damage.

 Rick handed the board a map of the Town and highlighted the damaged areas and circled in blue the hot spots for requiring DEC Emergency Permit because they are culverts. He has contact the DEC and they have received the Emergency Permit Application and are still processing the permit. Rick would like to know what we are going to do for funding. These projects need to be fixed before school starts in Sept. Rick wants to know what we are going to do for funding. Rick stated that even if we can get funding from FEMA it is a reimbursement process and we have to put the money out first before we get anything back. John stated that if we spend the money before FEMA says ok it is not eligible. Rick stated that is not true as long as he has the documentation in. The risk is that we spend the money or bond and hope that we get the money. Rick read an email from Matt Beckwith on the April 28. This was about FEMA and SEMO reimbursement paperwork. John mentioned that according to Randy Gibbon, Co. Highway Superintended there has to be $25,000,000.00 in damage. And we are nowhere near this amount. John explained to Rick that he has $330,000 to get him through the year. Cueball needs exactly $1,000 yards of fill. Buckley Hill Road needs to have fill for 30" gorge. Buckley needs stabilization to keep from washing out. Sluice Pipe for Moran Road is undermined all the way back to the joints. Rick feels this work would not be fixed by the time school opens. Rick has three estimates for Moran Road. BMA Earth needs to talk with Rick about their estimate. The other ones are Al Torto $214,000, Suite Kote $288,000, ZMK Construction $193,000. There was more discussion and Marion felt that we needed to look at interest rate and all other options and do it right. John asked if he should look into ¼ of a million dollars to borrow, George Ok’d.

 The DEC was by, inspected the Town Garage Premises, and got us on Fuel Tank compliance. This is a $37,500 fine per day. This was a complaint the violation was they needed to be painted and signed appropriately. Everything has been fixed. Rick has to meet with DEC on July 18 for a hearing about the violation.

 There has been a problem with water being placed in our equipment.

 The town has acquired the part from Smithville for the Gradall and now it works very nicely.

Old Business:

 There has been more information on a surveillance system. The cost will be $2978.50. George made a motion to purchase the surveillance system. Bob seconded. All are in favor. Static IP. $19.99.

 There has been an ad placed in the local paper for a Town Attorney who is versed in Municipal Law for Gas Work and Utilities.

 A couple of month ago Norse Energy to include Town lands in 3-d testing and check anyone wells within 1000’ of the shot zone has their water test once before and 2 times after testing at 6 month and 1 year. Also, to provide the town with the actual data found resulting from this testing. The project is on hold at this time.

New Business:

 John received a letter from the DEC expressing their concerns in the Towns decision to grant public utilities the use of right of ways for Natural Gas distribution pipelines. John responded to the letter.

 Marion made a motion to renew the2012 Contract for the Area of the Agency Senior Center and gave John permission to sign the contract. Bob seconded. All are in favor.

 There was a quote to mow the Town Cemeteries. JH Lawn Mowing, $200 for all three. No action taken at this time.

 Rick gave a Thank you the person who mowed the cemetery on State Highway 41 twice.

 John recovered funds from 2009-2010 County Sand Loading funds of $242.00, recovered IRS funds of $709.50 for FUTA taxes that town did not have to pay. Expecting approximately $2,100 additional refund for years 2008, 2009, and 2010.

Audit of the Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $66,537.33 as listed on Warrant7: items 110-127, having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by George. Seconded by Bob. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Harvey, yes; Bob, yes; George, yes and John, yes.

General bills in the amount of $4,400.52 as listed on Warrant 7: items 101-121 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by Harvey. Seconded by George. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Harvey, yes; George, yes; Bob, yes and John, yes.

Public Participation:

 Walter Neville commented that the Road crew has done an outstanding job.

 Chris Hoeppner asked if the board considered anything about a Physical Disability Limited Income Property Tax deduction. John mentioned that he had not discuss with them at this time. This needs to be written as a Law in order to be passed. This will be placed on the agenda for next time. Marion had the letter and Theresa read to the Board the letter to Chris from Jack Stafford.

 The Town was required to put the Tentative Tax Roll on the County website and the Town Website.

 Kim asked about the Lawyer.

 Mrs. Doty asked if they would consider other renewable resources other than gas.

 Mrs. Loeb spoke of a new solar jobs act.

 Mr. Dudden and Mr. Canistra both think the Franchise should be passed. The Board is still investigating.

 Rick asked if there has been any progress on the Direct Deposit.

 There was some discussion on FOIL Request.

Harvey made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Marion seconded. All are in favor.

Respectfully submitted for approval by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

June 8, 2011

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.

Roll Call: Present- Marion Ireland, George Broeg, Robert Boudreau, John Phelan. Absent-Harvey Fletcher

Invocation: John Phelan

Pledge: John Phelan

The Board introduced themselves to the public.

Public Hearings will be held at 8:00.

Review of the minutes. George made a motion to approve the minutes from the meeting of May 11, 2011 and the Special meeting of May 24, 2011. Bob seconded. All are in favor.

Highway Superintendents Report: Richard Granger, Jr.

Dust oil has been set down on some of the roads. Grading in front of houses to get that in place and the roads will be revisited to put final grading on them.

Hauled in new material.

It was asked when the Highway Crew would fix the potholes on Gray Road. Rick said he would look into it tomorrow.

It was asked if they could look into putting Speed Limit signs on Co. Road 9 (Page Brook Road) from the corner to Cueball Road and down. John will make a note to request it and moved to ask NYS to consider allowing reduced speed limits on Co. Rd 9 (Page Brook Road). Bob seconded. There was some discussion. All in Favor. Carried.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company: Julie Clark

The Fire Company has just put Engine 162 back in service after extensive repairs from an accident.

In the process of putting in a barbecue pit on the far side of the station.

In the process of getting ready for the Blueberry Festival in July.

Department is still look for members

Planning Committee: Bruce Warren

Bruce stated that they notified Mr. Shaheed that they rejected his initial site plan combining use of Echo Lake and Chenango Valley Ranch. This was done in writing and sent certified mail.

Community Events Committee: Doug Besemer

The Blueberry Festival will be held on July 30th at the Firehouse and extra parking will be at the Town Hall.

Old Business:

TDS announced a $1.3 Million to upgrade internet service. They plan to start installing new High Speed Internet at the Smith Pond and Stone Hill Substations. It should be finished by Mid 2012.

Site Plan Review will remain almost identical to what it was in 1989. The only thing changing is as follows:

There will be a substantial raise in penalty fees.

To break or do an offense against the Site Plan Review Law, where you are using your property for a Mass Gathering when it is not authorized for a Mass Gathering will become a Criminal event instead of a Civil event.

Finally, added the power of Injunctive Relief to the Law. This is so if someone starts an event or even advertise the event we can have a Judge issue an Injunction which is a court order and the police will stop the event.

In the process of buying a Security system that will cover the Town Barn and Town Hall. It is comprised of a PC based 8 channel DVR running on windows 7, 4 day and night color bullet cameras which are fixed and also 4 color wireless cameras which are moveable the range is up to 3,000 ft at the frequency we will be running . It was $2,645 last month. The price has gone up since it had been approved last month.

Town resolved to develop a local law to Regulate Pipelines under 125 psi. John was provided with a packet from Corning Natural Gas, which is their standards of construction. They are completely regulated by the Public Service Commission. What we are moving toward is to make the same Public Service Commission Regulations apply to Utility Companies also apply to any Company.

The Town last month resolved to ban both Injection and Storage Wells with in the town. At this time we are looking at Town Regulations throughout the Country that have adopted such regulations.

The former board signed a lease with Norse Energy for a Pipe Line Right of Way on our Wylie Horton Road it expires at the end of the year. It does not look like they will start construction.

NYMIR has sent us a dividend check for this year’s insurance.

New Business:

The Town received a letter from Robert Larkin. Mr. Larkin has turned in his resignation as the Town Attorney. John would like to vote to accept h Mr. Larkin his thanks and regrets his resignation with regret. Marion read the letter of Resignation Mr. Larkin wrote to the public. Bob seconded the motion. All are in favor. Carried

John asked if the Assessor was present. Marion received an email from George 6/6/2011 to Jack, John Phelan, Supervisor asked me to forwarded to the attached letter Written and signed by John Phelan is requesting your presence at Mandatory meeting at the Town Hall, Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at 7 p.m., see you then regards Georg Broeg. Marion replied to George that back in January John said you would be handling the information on Jack and asked to be kept informed on info you had. Would you like to share what is going on with her. George stated he did not get that message. Marion received email from Jack Stafford with everybody’s email address on it stating that due to the short notice one day of the request to attend the Town Board mandatory meeting, the lack of subject matter to be discussed and preparation thereof, and commitments previously planned on for June 8, 2011, I will be unable to attend the Mandatory Meeting on June 8, 2011 at 7 p.m. John will see if he can make it in two weeks. Marion stated that she still has not seen any information.

Oscar asked if he could speak a minute. He was told that it time for Leatherstocking not for Grievance Board.

Leatherstocking, LLC. Representatives Mr. Mirabito, Mr. German, Mr. Cook, Mr. Slevee gave an overview of the proposed Commercial Local Distribution Company. Leatherstocking Natural Gas is a partnership of a New York Public Utility Corning Natural Gas and Mirabito Holding. The purpose of this company and the operation of this company ar as a local distribution company in the NYS vanacular, that is a company that distributes natural gas to customers. (they are not pipeline company, they only distribute natural gas) It was founded in 1904, and is heavily regulated by NYS Public Service Commission. They have never used eminent domain and have no intention to do so.

Highway Bills in the amount of $30,412.90 as listed on Warrant 6: items 89-109 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by Marion. Seconded by Bob. Roll Call: Marion, yes; George, yes; Bob, yes and John, yes.

General Bills in the amount of $2,112.35 as listed on Warrant 6: items 81-94 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Marion asked about Oscar Lerwick and Wilbur Day and was told that they would not be paid, then asked about the cell phone for Supervisor. Moved by George. Seconded by Marion. Roll Call: Marion, yes; George, yes; Bob, yes and John, yes.

George made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:45. Bob seconded.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

May, 2011 Coventry Town Board Meeting 

Review the Site Plan Review Law changes. Marion moved. George seconded. All are in favor. th at 8 and the Informational meeting on May 25th at 7:00. George seconded. All are in favor.

May 11, 2011 (Written but not officially approved until June meeting)

The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m.

Roll Call: Present were Marion Ireland, Harvey Fletcher, John Phelan, Bob Boudreau, George Broeg.

Invocation: John Pledge: John

The minutes of the last board meeting of 4/13/2011 were inspected. Marion moved to accept the minutes. Harvey seconded. All are in favor.

Highway Superintendents Report: Richard Granger, Jr.

• Doing grading, honing and fixing the rough roads well the weather holds out.

• The Highway Dept. will use Dust Oil this year to help keep the dust down this summer.

• Going to start working on Buckley Road, it will be put back to oil and stone.

• Will be mowing the Cemeteries so they look nice for Memorial Day.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company: Lloyd Drachler

• Fire Company is still waiting for Radios for the change over within the next couple week.

Planning Board: Bruce Warren

Museum Report: Doug Besemer

• There was a workday to get ready for the open house on Sunday, May 15, 2011.

• There is talk of an Old time Craft Fair in the fall.

• Memorial Weekend there will be a Bake Sale at the Blue Grass Festival.

Community Events Committee: Doug Besemer

• The Blueberry Festival will be held on July 30.

Correspondence:

• The Town Board has received to letters from citizens who own property in the Town of Coventry that state they are in favor of the gas drilling as long as the Companies keep it safe. See attached.

• In reference to the bake sale for the Bluegrass Festival. Ted Wrench was in and filled out the paperwork for a Mass Gathering Permit for the Bluegrass Festival. Harvey moved that the nonprofit Penny Festival being held Memorial Day Weekend at Wrench Wranch be granted. Marion seconded the motion. All are in favor. Carried.

Old Business:

• The town purchased 18 various fruit trees. Sixteen trees are planted all along the fence line of 206.

• John opened the Lawn Mowing Bids.

1. JH Landscaping: Weekly Mowing and Trimming $80.00.

2. Town- N- Country Lawn Care weakly mowing and trimming $80.00.

3. John Pratt $120 per week.

4. Cleen Cut Lawn Care $96.50 weekly

Bob made a motion to stay with Town- N- Country Lawn Care. George seconded the motion. All are in favor.

• Land Service has approached the Town to include Town owned properties 2 of them (Shale pit on Spisak Road and Wylie Horton Road Recreation area) in their ongoing sonic gas 3D testing program. There was some discussion. John looks for a motion to allow participation in 3D testing program on Town properties provided the Town is given the data for the town properties and provided that prior to any testing wells within 1000 ft be test once before and twice subsequently after testing at 6 month and 1 year after. The data from the testing that relates to public land will be available to the public. Marion seconded. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Harvey, yes; George, yes; Bob, yes and John, yes. Motion carried. As long as the company agrees to the provisions given.

• The town has received a quote from Chenango Welding for a Security System for the Town Hall and Barn. The price is competitive with internet pricing. It has 8 cameras 4 are fixed and 4 moveable. It will alert anyone it is set with. The cost is $2,645. The setup can be split between the Town Hall and the Town Barn. Bob made the motion was made to award to Chenango Welding. This is a onetime deal and we will own it. Marion seconded. All are in favor. Carried.

• John has requested from TDS phone company an Update on the $1.2 million internet upgrades that were supposed to be made to the Southern Coventry. They have not moved forward and will get back to John.

New Business:

• John would like permission to develop a resolution prohibiting Gas injection and storage wells within the Town of Coventry. John moved. Harvey seconded. There was some discussion. Roll Call: George, yes; Bob, yes; Marion, yes; Harvey, yes and John, yes. Carried

• As of last month, we are working on a Resolution to regulate any gas line under 125 psi.

• Grievance Day is May 24, 2011 from 2-4 and 6-8 at the Coventry Town Hall.

• John called for a Public Hearing to be held on June 8

• Harvey made a motion to appoint Leland Schultz to the Planning Board term thru 12/31/11. This is an annual appointment and this to replace a member who has resigned. Marion seconded. All are in favor. Carried

• Established a Coventry FOIL application form and procedure & charges. Theresa is working on this and it will be finished by Friday. John moved to develop a FOIL Application form, procedure and charges. Harvey seconded. All are in favor. Carried.

• Send a mailing to the Town Residence on a number of issues. Citizen Survey on energy & general matters.

• Leatherstocking Gas LLC has contacted the Town. This is owned by Corning Natural Gas Company and Mirabito Energy Holding Company. Their proposal is to supply Mead West Vaco, The Hospital, Amphenol, Sidney School District and the Municipal buildings. It is strictly going to run on State and County Right of Ways. John called to Move to have a Public Hearing on June 8, 2011 at 8:00 at the Town Hall for Leatherstocking LLC. Gas franchise. There will be a special second informational meeting on May 25, 2011 at 7 p.m. for people to talk with members of the Leatherstocking LLC and have a presentation of their proposal. John made the motion to hold the public hearing June 8

• Town Clerk has asked to start her Summer Hours, which will be as follows: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 4-8 and Closed Saturdays. This will start June 4 and go through the first weekend in September.

Audit of the Bills:

Highway Bills in the amount of $25,345.62 as listed on Warrant 5: items 71-91 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by Harvey. Seconded by George. Roll Call: Harvey, yes; Marion, yes; George, yes; Bob, yes and John, yes.

General Bills in the amount of $19,579.75 as listed on Warrant 5: items 68-80 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. George had a question on Jacks bill there was an error in calculation. Moved by George. Seconded by Marion. Roll Call: Harvey, yes; Marion, yes; George, yes; Bob, yes and John, yes.

Harvey moved to go in to Executive session to discuss a Personnel issue. Bob seconded.

Bob moved to come out of Executive session. Harvey seconded.

The meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Town of Coventry Board Meeting

April 13, 2011

 (These notes are not officially approved until the May meeting)

The April 13, 2011 meeting was opened at 7:00 p.m.

Present were Harvey Fletcher, Marion Ireland, George Broeg, Robert Boudreau and John Phelan.

Invocation: John Phelan

Pledge: John Phelan

The audit of the minutes and correction needed to be made of who was present at the meeting. Harvey asked
about the letter from Kim Michaels pertaining to item on page 2. George made a motion to accept the minutes
with correction. Bob seconded. All are in favor.

Highway Report: Richard Granger, Jr.

. The energy audit was passed around to the council members.
. One highway employee has resigned. At the end of the month, Rick will start the hiring process to fill this
position.
. The crew has been out patching holes and filling in washouts.
. Radio compliance for 2013 working with Matt Beckwith, Afton and Bainbridge.
. Road Sign replacement will take place during the summer.
. The Crew is working on sinkholes, grading and replace sluice pipes on Whylie Horton Road.
. David Craine and Kelly Pinney gave an overview of a Health Savings Account as an alternative to our
health insurance.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company:

. No Report

Planning Board:

. No Report

Museum Report:

. No Report

Historian Report:

. No Report

Old Business:

. Update on the Store/Town Lease Agreement. The Town is in negotiation with the Coventry Store to
obtain a long-term lease for a few feet of property by the barn closest to the store to square up the line.
. Tree trimming in the amount of $3,000 in 3 of the Coventry cemeteries that are maintained by the Town.
. The Planning Board is looking to fill an empty seat. If anyone is interested, there is a signup sheet.
. Rick has received one quote for Security Camera at the Town Barn from Chenango Welding. The quote is
for $2,445.95. The internet price is $2,400.95. This would help with the potential of fuel problems that
may occur with higher prices. Vanessa Warren asked if this would reduce insurance.
. The 18 trees that were ordered from CCSWCD will be here on Friday.

New Business:

. Firework Permits application forms are available from the Clerk. An individual has to meet state
requirements. Need to have a semi professional. There is a Designated State Official to help fill this out.
. HYCC summer program for Forestland & other Town property will do work for $1.00/hr.
. A motion to prepare a Town Law Regulating gas pipelines & disposal wells in the Town of Coventry to be
ready for next month’s board meeting, then hold a public hearing. Harvey asked about a County Wide
Law for line. George made a motion to have Pipeline under 125-psi disposal well within Town of Coventry.
Bob seconded. Rick would like it to be 6 ft below ditch level. All are in favor.
. John tentatively applied for NYPA Solar Program for up to 100 K.W. This was information found in Talk of
the Towns, 9/10.

. John made a motion to create Account D2680 Insurance Recovery Deposit Repair Fund & transfer to
DA5130.4. George seconded the motion. Roll Call: Bob, yes; George, yes; Harvey, yes; Marion, yes and
John, yes.
. John read a letter written by Mr. Mason. Mr. Erickson also read a letter that he wrote. Both letters were
asking the Town to Ban Gas Drilling in Coventry. Discussion was had about the letters. Marion read a
letter from Mr. Krizauskas in favor of gas drilling.
. The Village Market and Rex Farms teamed up to have a standby Generator that will be used at the Farm
during the summer and the Store during the winter. If there is a power outage, it will be brought to the
store to help supply fuel to the town residents.
. Interest rates have gone up. We will have a money market account again. At present we get .012 %
interest, we now can get .05%. It will automatically balance over if needed.
. Harvey made a motion to put out to bid for Lawn Mowing Service. Marion seconded. The Town Clerk will
place an ad in both papers. All are in favor.
. The Town Website has added a Coventry Business News Section. Any Coventry business wishing to add
their business to the directory, please send info to webmaster. Senior Center has added a spring evening
meal-see website for details. Webmaster address is now [email protected].
. John asked permission to attend the 2011 Finance School on May 11-13 in Saratoga. Bob made motion to
let John go to School. George seconded. All are in favor.
. Norse Energy would like permission to do 3D testing on two properties owned by the Town. These
properties are the Shale pit and the Recreation Park. John read letter from Right of Way Land Services on
the subject. They will provide data to the Town. Harvey made a motion to move forward with testing.
Discussion was had for and against testing. Mr. Schultz said we might want to get assistants from an
attorney first. Harvey moved to allow pending review by attorney. George seconded. Discussion: this will
be brought back to town board. Harvey asked Mr. Schultz about attorneys with Experience in this area.
All are in favor. Carried.
. We were approached by Leatherstocking Natural Gas. This is a LLC owned by Corning and Co-owned by
Mirabito Holdings (Chief Officers Joe Mirabito and Mike Jermaine). They propose to supply service to
Amphenol, Mead, Sidney Hospital, Sidney School District, Sidney Municipal and in Future Residents. They
would like the Town of Coventry to Issue a Special Franchise for operating a line that will run from Sidney
down I88 and up St. Hwy. 206 to Greene. This is a utility pipeline. The Town would receive benefits. The
board will take no action at this time.

Audit of Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $47,925.55, as listed on Warrant 4: items 51-70 having been audited by the board
are submitted for approval. Moved by Marion. Seconded by Harvey. Roll Call: Harvey, yes; Marion, yes; George,
yes; Bob, yes and John, yes.

General bills in the amount of $6047.50, as listed on Warrant 4: items 49-67 having been audited by the board are
submitted for approval. Moved by George. Seconded by Bob. Roll Call: Harvey, yes; Marion, yes; George, yes;
Bob, yes and John yes.

Public Input on any matter:

Mrs. Michaels made mention about anyone that has signed a lease with the Gas Companies should recues
themselves from any decisions on the board. Mr. Dudden felt it is not right to ask someone to recues themselves
from any decisions.

Harvey moved to go into Executive Session. George seconded.

Harvey moved to come out of Executive Session. George seconded.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:15 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

 The March meeting was opened at 7:00 p.m.

Invocation: John

Pledge: John

 The Board introduced themselves to the public that was present.

 David Craine was in to discuss the insurance coverage for the town. Suggesting the town go from $4,000,000 to $5,000,000 liability. Right now town has $3,000,000 total $4,000,000.

 Highway Superintendent’s Report: Richard Granger, Jr.

·       During the recent storm, we were down two people, and down two trucks but still managed to plow 104 miles of road.

·       During storm before this last one, one truck slid down the Stone Hill backwards into a ditch was damaged beyond repair but is still useable. It will take way too many man-hours to cut it apart and weld it back together. It has been turned into the Insurance Company. Rick was exploring other aspects to fix. We can go out to the vendor to do repairs. Either way we do it, we will have a $1,000 deductible. Marion made a motion to have repairs done by an outside source it would be more cost effective. George seconded. All are in favor.

·       Rick commented on some of the roads taking a good beating due to the rain then snow on top not letting the road freeze up. The trucks have made a mess. Cueball Road from Wylie-Horton to Seymour, Bowbell Road from Wylie-Horton to the Grey Road and Beebe Road from the small steal deck bridge up to the top of the hill.

·       Rick went to Albany to lobby for the CHIPS for small towns.

·       There is a new welder at the town barn purchased from Chenango Welding.

·       Town of Coventry now owns their own broom to sweep our roads.

·       Rick asked if there was any reason why he could not open a Face book page for the Highway Department.

Planning Board: John Phelan

·       No main report.

·       There was a suggestion to the board about issuing an injunction to Echo Lake against 2011 operations. Attorney Larkin suggested the board look this over. George made a motion to seek an injunction on Echo Lake for not having the proper permits and no activities until such time as they present all material for County, State and Law Enforcement up to the criteria set of the Town Attorney. Harvey seconded. Roll call: George, yes; Bob; yes; Marion, yes; Harvey, yes and John, yes. So Carried.

Historian’s Report:

·       No Report

Museum Report: Doug Besemer

·       The museum committee is working on a 4 year Program with the County for the 150^th anniversary of the Civil War.

·       The museum received a $750 grant from the Chenango Co. Council of the Arts for our Local Civil War event.

Community Events Committee:

·       The Chicken and Biscuit dinner two weeks ago, was well attended.

Old Business:

·       Read a Letter from Kim Michaels.

·       Steve Merr asked when the last time was that we put our insurance out to bid. It was explained this has been the best company overall in comparison.

·       John made a motion to create a Wind Turbine Expense Account A1620.21 and to transfer from account A3 Capital Project Reserve $9,999.00 to fund it. Bob seconded. Roll call: Bob, yes; George, yes; Marion, yes; Harvey, yes and John, yes. So carried.

·       John made a motion to create a Wind Turbine Revenue Account A2590.1 and transfer $1.00 from Account A3 Capitol Reserve. George seconded. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Harvey, yes; Bob, yes; George, yes and John, yes. So carried.

 Old Business continued:

·       Discussion was had on the Waste Roll off containers and DEC Regulations. Received a 15-page article on the requirements to dispose of a computer or a television. There was nothing pertaining to Refrigerators or anything else that is put in the dumpster.

·       Supervisor moved Highway funds of $200,000 to an interest bearing sub account D2a of D2 Highway Savings Equipment Reserve.

·       The board discussed the disposition of the Assessor’s health insurance bill. Harvey mentioned that back when the agreement was made the Tri Town Afton, Bainbridge, Coventry picked up the assessors health plan was in lieu of wages to negotiate with that contract. John suggestion is to pay the present bill and move to send a letter to Jack notifying him that effective 30 day from that date his wife’s insurance will be terminated, as no agreement can be found. Then we will have future discussion as to if we want to reenter into the agreement with or without benefits for the Assessors. Harvey moved that the insurance bill be paid to Bainbridge as is and a letter be sent to the Assessor Jack Stafford that says 30 Days from the date of this letter your wife no longer has insurance unless you care to pick up the portion of your wife’s cost. George seconded. Discussion: Harvey asked what would happen if he were terminated May 1. All in are in favor. So carried.

·       John sent out thank you letters from the Coventry Planning Board to Councilor Bret Jennings, Great Bend for the presentation on natural gas development. Also, a Thank you to Lord Mayor & Mayoress of Coventry, England for their best wishes over the holidays and inviting them to visit our Town Website.

New Business:

·       Doug brought in a copy of the Town of Afton Road use Law for the board.

·       John made a motion to create a Supervisor Clerk Expense Account A1220.11 and transfer $3,000 form Surplus. Maybe Lori would come and take minutes for the planning board. Bob Seconded. Harvey felt it would have been real nice if it had been brought to the board in the first place when you wanted to create this. This should have been a board decision as per the Law Book. John apologized if he did not get to the board soon enough. Roll Call: Bob, yes; George, yes; Harvey, yes; Marion, yes and John, yes. Carried.

·       John would like authorization to purchase up to 20 trees & shrubs from CC Soil & water for planting around Town Hall and Davey Park. Harvey moved that we buy up to 20 shrubs that would be pertinent and appropriate for the park to be planted by the Supervisor. Marion seconded. All are in favor.

·       Harvey made a motion to request Town Clerk to finalize & send meeting minutes to the Council within 14 days after the meeting and a copy emailed to we[email protected]. George seconded. All are in favor.

·       George made a motion to receive and file the Supervisors 2010 Annual Financial Report and the clerk to send legal notice to the newspaper. Harvey seconded. All are in favor.

·       John received a formal resignation from Pat Fiske as Town Historian. Bob made a motion to accept the resignation. George seconded. All are in favor.

·       We have not received a formal resignation from Jim Craig. Harvey spoke with Jim and asked if they could do anything to change his mind. Jim told Harvey there was nothing to be done. Harvey will ask Jim to write a formal resignation.

·       The Supervisor recovered $1,120.30 in overpaid unemployment insurance fees. The funds will be deposited to General Surplus Savings.

·       The Town of Coventry website is up and running. The Senior News will be updated weekly.

·       John made a motion to transfer $1,000.00 from A1190 contingent to A8810.4Cemetery DE for tree removal & trimming. George seconded. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Harvey, yes; Bob, yes; George, yes and John, yes.

Audit of Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $19734.70, as listed on Warrant3: items 35-50 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by George. Seconded by Marion. Roll Call: Harvey, yes; Marion, yes; George, yes; Bob, yes and John, yes.

General bills in the amount of $5,455.99, as listed on Warrant 3: items 37-48 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by Harvey. Seconded by Marion. Roll Call: Harvey, yes; Marion, yes; George, yes; Bob, yes and John yes.

Public: Kim asked the town for a 1-year moratorium on Gas Drilling. Hand John a petition to stop Gas Drilling in the area with about 3,00o signatures. Harvey felt that Kim was preventing any official from voting on gas drilling due to any conflict of interest. It was mentioned that the board should wait until DEC has made their decisions.

Harvey moved to go into Executive Session. George seconded. Bob moved to come out of Executive Session. Marion seconded. Meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted by Theresa A. Schultheis, Coventry Town Clerk

Coventry Town Board Meeting

February 9, 2011

The board meeting opened at 7:00 p.m.

Present were Marion Ireland, Harvey Fletcher, Bob Boudreau, George Broeg and John Phelan.

Invocation: John Pledge: John

John asked if anyone had questions about the January minutes. Marion asked about the $.51 per mile. John moved approval of minutes with the necessary corrections. George seconded made that motion.

All are in favor. Carried

Marion had a question about a motion that was made on the December 29, 2010 minutes. The motion was to encumber 2010 funds from A7450.4 of $1,000 to use in 2011 that is the museum account. It should have been the historians account A7510.4 for $800. Marion made the motion to correct the resolution from the December minutes encumbering A7450.4 for $1,000 to encumbering A7510.4 for $800. Harvey seconded the motion. All are in favor. Carried.

Highway Superintendents Reports: Richard Granger, Jr.

• The Highway Crew has been out pushing back snow banks. Rick would like everyone to be aware that it is illegal to push snow across the road from your driveways. He does not have a problem with this as long as you clean up the road.
• The sand pile is frozen solid so we have been hauling sand in from Afton and that is freezing just as quick as it is being dumped.
• The equipment is starting to show its age. There have been some major breakdowns. Rick thanked Kevin Dean for consulting for free.
• Truck No. 12, which is the truck we bought from Sherburne, has been in the shop more than it has been on the road. Had to fix one tire on the loader, not because of a hole but the rim was rusted. Rick has growing concerns for this loader (newer of the two loaders). Had to put new springs in the truck.
• Rick has purchased some new tools for the Shop to help with doing repairs in shop.
• The Paver engine project is done and complete.
• In March there will be a Chain Saw Safety Course in Sidney that all of the Highway crew will attend. Put on by our Insurance Company.
• NYSERDA audit has been done. Rick needed some other information, which Theresa will get for Rick. Then NYSERDA will finish the report and get it back to Rick. The garage doors need to be fixed and that should help with some of the heat problems. Rick put the repair of the doors out to bid. He has received one bid from Overhead doors. The estimate is $3,600 per door. The procurement policy is $5,000 or over needs to come to the board. Rick feels that one door needs to be replaced the other door just needs repairs so he will get in touch with Overhead Doors for the work.
• John asked Rick if Afton is supposed to take care of County Road 30 (Long Hill Road) which Rick told him yes it is there responsibility. John asked if Coventry Highway would be interested it is $11 or $12 a lane mile. Rick told him no. Rick said he would rather do Page Brook Road.

Coventry Volunteer Fire Company Report:

• Nothing to report.

Planning Board Report: James Craig

• A representative from the State Troopers and the Sheriff’s Department attended the meeting to give some insight on how to handle Echo Lake. They are going to be talking with their District Attorney’s and will get back to the board.
• The board will relook at the Mass Gathering Law there are some corrections that need to be made and some things that may need to be added.
• John attended a Public Service Commission Hearing and heard that all gas pipelines less than 120 psi are total unregulated. Those same lines can be regulated by the town they are coming through by site plan review. The Gas Committee has come up with a set of standards and John will forward them to the Planning board.

Museum Report: Doug Besemer

• In the early planning stages for the Countywide 4 year observance of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War.
• The Towns Annual Civil War Ceremony will be held on October 9, 2011.

Historian Report:

• Nothing to report

Community Events Committee:

• There will be a Chicken and Biscuit Dinner on February 26, 20011 from 4-7 p.m. at the Firehouse.
• Starting work on the Spring Fling.

Old Business:

• Supervisor has recovered $2,000 NYSEG overpayment to the Town.
• Marion discuss the results of the energy audit. The building is in good shape.
• John went to AT&T about the concept about installing them on our proposed Wind Turbine System. They have ruled this out for various reasons.
• Speed Limit update. There have been Speed Limit Ahead Signs placed on the roads at this time.
• Discussion was had about the Planning board appointments that were tabled from last month. We had a personnel issue with a conflict of personalities. Marion made a motion to bring it up to a vote or do we reappoint in the position that is disputed. No names were presented at this time to replace the one person. John made a motion to take it off the table then put it back on. Harvey seconded to take off the table. All were in favor. Discussion was had about conflicts among the planning board members. John put it on the floor to reappoint Craig Miller, Scott Bovier, Art Hanrahan, James Craig, and Bruce Warren for 2011. Bob seconded. Roll Call: Bob, yes; George, yes; Harvey, yes; Marion, the way you but it yes and John, yes. Carried. Jim took the second option and left the meeting.

New Business:

• John received a Tentative Contract from AT&T to lease Town property to install a Tower. County cannot entire into a lease from more than 5 yrs. AT&T wants a 25-year lease. Provides Taxation as a special franchise. Lease payments of $12,000 /year to start with a 3% escalator for the next 25 years. If other companies put an antenna on the tower, we can receive more money. They will give $1000 good faith and 6 month due diligence. First payment in advance before they break ground. John would like permission to negotiate. George made a motion to start to negotiate contract to lease town barn property with Legal Council as needed. Harvey seconded. John will not sign the contract until the board has a chance to look it over.
• John made a motion to terminate Tri Town Assessor Agreement effective 9/1/11 and renegotiate & sign contract less (Town Paid) health insurance for Assessors wife. George seconded. Roll Call: George, yes; Bob, yes; Marion, yes; Harvey, yes and John, yes. So carried.
• Bob made a motion to designate Town Hall as primary office location of Supervisor and authorizing use of Town owned laptop computer for use off site on any secured network. George seconded. All are in favor. So Carried.
• Marion asked about a person she saw in the office working with John. John has hired Lori Ball to be his assistant to help data entry, has been doing this job since November, and is being paid out of 1620.4. Harvey asked why this was not brought to the board. John said according to the Law book that he did not have to bring it to the board. Where she is being paid out of will change and he will let you know.
•  

Public Participants:

• It was asked if there is a road being built of Morgan and Tracy road. Not to our knowledge.
• Kim asked about the National Gas Advisory Committee and how they are more for the gas companies then for the public. In addition, would like to push for a 6-month moratorium.

Audit of Bills:

Highway bills in the amount of $19539.45, as listed on Warrant 2: items 19-34 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by Harvey. Seconded by Marion. Roll Call: Marion, yes; Harvey, yes; Bob, yes; George, yes and John, yes.

General bills in the amount of $3,796.29, as listed on Warrant 2: items 18-36 having been audited by the board are submitted for approval. Moved by Marion. Seconded by George. Roll Call: George, yes; Bob, yes; Harvey, yes; Marion, yes and John yes.

Meeting was adjourned until March will be Wednesday, March 9