The Village Board met Tuesday, August 25, 2015 at 7:00 PM at the village offices.
Present: John Spaeth, Mayor
Patrick Barnett, Trustee Debra Ellsworth, Trustee
John Markiewicz, Trustee
Excused: Matthew Ginter, Trustee Wendy Reu, Village Clerk, Recording Secretary
Mayor Spaeth called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Motion to approve the minutes of the July 21, 2015 Regular Meeting was made by Trustee Markiewicz, seconded by Trustee Ellsworth, and passed by voice vote as follows:
Aye: Mayor Spaeth, Trustee Ellsworth, Trustee Markiewicz
Nay: 0
Abstain: Trustee Barnett (absent from meeting)
PUBLIC COMMENTS – Kirk Tooley asked to address the Board regarding the Skiff Road water line. He stated the residents that use that private line would be installing a yard hydrant at the end of the line but asked if the Village could provide any assistance to the project of replacing the line. Trustee Barnett stated that it wasn’t a matter of the Village not wanting to help but the Village cannot use Village funds outside the Village. He stated it would be like using Village tax dollars in the Village of Mayfield. Mayor Spaeth stated that the Village’s hands are tied immediately. He indicated there was discussion of applying for joint water grants between the Village and the Town and if those grants were obtained, the Town could form a water district on Skiff Road and the Town would be responsible for maintenance and repair. Mayor Spaeth stated as it stands now, if there is a break in the Skiff Road line, the Village would have to go to the nearest shut off and turn off the line to preserve the integrity of the Village of Northville water system to avoid contaminants and maintain the required pressure as set per the Department of Health. Mayor Spaeth reported that he has spoken with Supervisor Groff and the Town is in no position to form a district out there now but if a shared grant was obtained and the line was replaced, he was confident the Town would take over the line. Mayor Spaeth stated there are infrastructure issues in the Village also and the joint grant would benefit all the users.
REPORT OF COMMITTEES:
Police – Mayor Spaeth presented a letter from Officer Ronald Reu, indicating that due to recently adopted Gloversville Police Department policy, he must resign from the Northville Police Department. The resignation was accepted with regret and Mayor Spaeth indicated he would keep Officer Reu on the roster, as we have available slots, in the hope that Gloversville might reconsider their policy in the future.
Streets – Highway Superintendent Reidell reported that the cold storage building is complete. He stated the crew has been working on the Water Street guard rails and catch basins around the Village. Highway Superintendent Reidell also reported that the Third Street accessory buildings are completely emptied and ready for demolition.
Mayor Spaeth reported that the current Christmas decorations are aging and need replacement. He indicated that there is currently a “buy 3 get 1 free” sale and we are purchasing four decorations for $ 1,000.00. Mayor Spaeth stated that the Civic Association would be donating $ 250.00 toward the cost of decorations and that he expected the Merchant’s Association to make a donation also.
Mayor Spaeth reported that Matt Ginter, Jr. would be leaving his seasonal job with the highway department this week. Mayor Spaeth reminded the Board that they had previously approved Mr. Ginter’s CDL training while working seasonally for the Village and that had worked out well. Mr. Ginter still needs hours for training and asked to continue on his own time, not as an employee, driving the garbage truck and other vehicles that would give him the training hours he needs. Discussion ensued and it was determined that a “training in lieu of compensation” agreement could be drafted if the Board wanted the pursue it. After discussion, Trustee Markiewicz made a motion to draft a “training in lieu of compensation” agreement with Mr. Ginter to allow him to drive the vehicles necessary to aid in the completion of his CDL licensing. The motion was seconded by Trustee Barnett and carried by voice vote as follows:
Water – It was reported that usage increased from 3,116,000 gallons in July 2014 to 3,601,000 this year. Water testing and operations were normal.
Fire – Fire Department Report for July 2015
Village of Northville (1)
MVA 1
Town of Northampton (2)
False Alarm 2
Town Of Hope (1)
Helicopter LZ 1
Total Man-hours reported were 50
Mayor Spaeth reported that the Fireman’s Association was now the owner of the former Stewart’s property. He indicated the Association was looking into the mortgage process to move forward with the proposed construction plans. Mayor Spaeth stated that Association’s goal was to have the project done by May 2016 if they can get their funding sources lined up quickly.
Code Enforcement- Mayor Spaeth reported that the Code Enforcement Officer was on vacation and reports for July and August would be issued next month.
Joint Youth – Mayor Spaeth reported that the summer camp season had concluded. He stated there were a few issues that should be addressed and the commission would be meeting in early September to review the season.
TRANSFERS
Treasurer Nathanial Matthews requested the following Transfer:
$4,500.00
From: F9950.9 – Transfer to Cap Reserve – Water
To: F8320.402.– Water – Source Supply – Repair/Maint.
Reason – To cover emergent repair to VFD
Reason – to cover construction docs and application for grant for spillway park(s)
Trustee Ellsworth made a motion to approve the transfers as presented. The motion was seconded by Trustee Markiewicz and carried by voice vote as follows:
Bills to be paid from the General Fund in the amount of $ 61,827.94 from the Water Fund in the amount of $ 16,567.95, from the Joint Youth Fund in the amount of $ 4,983.83 and from the Capital Reserve Highway fund in the amount of $ 16,320.73 were presented for payment. Motion to approve payment was made by Trustee Markiewicz, seconded by Trustee Ellsworth, discussed, and carried by voice vote as follows:
A motion to approve the Annual Financial Report for Village was made by Trustee Barnett, seconded by Trustee Markiewicz, and carried by voice vote as follows:
A motion to approve the Annual Financial Report for Joint Youth Commission was made by Trustee Markiewicz, seconded by Trustee Barnett, and carried by voice vote as follows:
Mayor Spaeth reported he would like to form a committee to review the current park use rules and make recommendations for changes or determine if the rules are sufficient as written. He indicated the Clerk has also provided copies of several municipal park use rules for additional input. After discussion, Trustee Ginter and Trustee Ellsworth were appointed to the committee.
Mayor Spaeth addressed the Board about potentially leasing and/or purchasing the Legion property and asked for input. Trustee Barnett stated he was concerned about the Village purchasing a building just to house Fulmont, an agency that is utilized by surrounding municipalities. Mayor Spaeth stated there is nothing available for them to rent. He stated that he felt Fulmont provides a great service for our community and that extends past the boundaries of the Village. He stated that the people that access Fulmont services send their children to our school and pay school taxes in our community. Trustee Ellsworth stated the Third Street building definitely needs to come down and we don’t want to throw Fulmont out. After continued discussion, the Board agreed to pursue the idea of leasing the Legion building and Mayor Spaeth stated he would speak with Bill Mackey.
As previously reported, construction of the cold storage facility was completed and as such, Trustee Barnett made a motion to utilize funds that have been accumulated in a reserve fund for the purpose of construction of a cold storage facility, which fund is designated RH231.1 Capital Reserve for Highway Garage, under General Municipal Law 6-c, and the amount that will be utilized from the reserve fund should not exceed $ 100,000.00. The motion was seconded by Trustee Markiewicz and carried by voice vote as follows:
Mayor Spaeth presented a request from the Civic Association to conduct October Fest in the Waterfront Park on October 10th from 1-7 p.m. Trustee Barnett made a motion to approve the Civic Association request for park use as presented. The motion was seconded by Trustee Markiewicz and carried by voice vote as follows:
The Civic Association also presented a request for $ 375.00 to pay for hayrides at October Fest. It was noted this was covered by the Village at previous fall events. Trustee Barnett made a motion to approve $ 375.00 for hayrides at October Fest. The motion was seconded by Trustee Ellsworth and carried by voice vote as follows:
Mayor Spaeth presented a complaint from an individual regarding double parking on Main Street of a delivery vehicle in front of Shelby’s Kitchenette. The individual questioned the driver and was told the business owner told him to double park and not take up customer parking spaces. Mayor Spaeth noted that other businesses on Main Street block off the area in front of their store fronts if they are expecting a delivery. After discussion, Mayor Spaeth stated he would make the suggestion to the owner of Shelby’s to block off the parking spaces for delivery as the other Main Street businesses do.
Trustee Barnett discussed forming a policy regarding banners across Main Street. Trustee Barnett made a motion to allow banners to be strung across Main Street no earlier than 21 days before an event, with Board approval prior to going up. Trustee Markiewicz seconded the motion. Discussion ensued, and Mayor Spaeth stated that he felt 21 days was too short, indicating that he felt 30 days was sufficient. The motion presented by Trustee Barnett was carried by voice vote as follows:
Trustee Barnett received a report that a resident was parking their boat on the sidewalk/terrace area. As discussion continued, it was noted that several portions of sidewalks in both commercial and residential areas are being blocked by cars parking across them. Mayor Spaeth stated he would talk with Chief VanValkenberg about addressing these issues as we need to keep our sidewalks clear.
Mayor Spaeth reported about an ongoing issue with garbage being left out in bags along Ridge Road by seasonal residents. He said he had spoken with Vicky and Dennis Mullaney and they voiced concerns about seasonal residents not using cans for their trash as required by code and animals being attracted to the garbage left out. It was suggested that seasonal residents in that area construct a screened container and then two garbage cans could remain there permanently.
Trustee Ellsworth discussed the recent MVA at the top of Gould Hill and resident’s concerns that were voiced about the intersection. Mayor Spaeth stated he has spoken with Supervisor Groff and the only thing the Village could do is put a stop sign at the top of Gould Hill as the remaining roads of the intersection are County roads. He indicated that the Town will approach the County to try and get solar operated flashing lights to warn motorists of the intersection and larger stop signs. It was also suggested that “three way stop” signs be added to the current signs. Trustee Markiewicz made a motion to send a letter of support for the County’s assistance at this intersection with increased warning devices and larger stop signs. The motion was seconded by Trustee Ellsworth and carried by voice vote as follows:
There being no further business before the Board, motion was made to adjourn by Trustee Barnett, seconded by Trustee Ellsworth and passed by voice vote with no one dissenting.
Village Board Meeting Notes – August 25, 2015
REGULAR MEETING – VILLAGE OF NORTHVILLE
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
The Village Board met Tuesday, August 25, 2015 at 7:00 PM at the village offices.
Present: John Spaeth, Mayor
Patrick Barnett, Trustee
Debra Ellsworth, Trustee
John Markiewicz, Trustee
Excused: Matthew Ginter, Trustee
Wendy Reu, Village Clerk, Recording Secretary
Mayor Spaeth called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Motion to approve the minutes of the July 21, 2015 Regular Meeting was made by Trustee Markiewicz, seconded by Trustee Ellsworth, and passed by voice vote as follows:
PUBLIC COMMENTS – Kirk Tooley asked to address the Board regarding the Skiff Road water line. He stated the residents that use that private line would be installing a yard hydrant at the end of the line but asked if the Village could provide any assistance to the project of replacing the line. Trustee Barnett stated that it wasn’t a matter of the Village not wanting to help but the Village cannot use Village funds outside the Village. He stated it would be like using Village tax dollars in the Village of Mayfield. Mayor Spaeth stated that the Village’s hands are tied immediately. He indicated there was discussion of applying for joint water grants between the Village and the Town and if those grants were obtained, the Town could form a water district on Skiff Road and the Town would be responsible for maintenance and repair. Mayor Spaeth stated as it stands now, if there is a break in the Skiff Road line, the Village would have to go to the nearest shut off and turn off the line to preserve the integrity of the Village of Northville water system to avoid contaminants and maintain the required pressure as set per the Department of Health. Mayor Spaeth reported that he has spoken with Supervisor Groff and the Town is in no position to form a district out there now but if a shared grant was obtained and the line was replaced, he was confident the Town would take over the line. Mayor Spaeth stated there are infrastructure issues in the Village also and the joint grant would benefit all the users.
REPORT OF COMMITTEES:
Police – Mayor Spaeth presented a letter from Officer Ronald Reu, indicating that due to recently adopted Gloversville Police Department policy, he must resign from the Northville Police Department. The resignation was accepted with regret and Mayor Spaeth indicated he would keep Officer Reu on the roster, as we have available slots, in the hope that Gloversville might reconsider their policy in the future.
Streets – Highway Superintendent Reidell reported that the cold storage building is complete. He stated the crew has been working on the Water Street guard rails and catch basins around the Village. Highway Superintendent Reidell also reported that the Third Street accessory buildings are completely emptied and ready for demolition.
Mayor Spaeth reported that the current Christmas decorations are aging and need replacement. He indicated that there is currently a “buy 3 get 1 free” sale and we are purchasing four decorations for $ 1,000.00. Mayor Spaeth stated that the Civic Association would be donating $ 250.00 toward the cost of decorations and that he expected the Merchant’s Association to make a donation also.
Mayor Spaeth reported that Matt Ginter, Jr. would be leaving his seasonal job with the highway department this week. Mayor Spaeth reminded the Board that they had previously approved Mr. Ginter’s CDL training while working seasonally for the Village and that had worked out well. Mr. Ginter still needs hours for training and asked to continue on his own time, not as an employee, driving the garbage truck and other vehicles that would give him the training hours he needs. Discussion ensued and it was determined that a “training in lieu of compensation” agreement could be drafted if the Board wanted the pursue it. After discussion, Trustee Markiewicz made a motion to draft a “training in lieu of compensation” agreement with Mr. Ginter to allow him to drive the vehicles necessary to aid in the completion of his CDL licensing. The motion was seconded by Trustee Barnett and carried by voice vote as follows:
Water – It was reported that usage increased from 3,116,000 gallons in July 2014 to 3,601,000 this year. Water testing and operations were normal.
Fire – Fire Department Report for July 2015
Total Man-hours reported were 50
Mayor Spaeth reported that the Fireman’s Association was now the owner of the former Stewart’s property. He indicated the Association was looking into the mortgage process to move forward with the proposed construction plans. Mayor Spaeth stated that Association’s goal was to have the project done by May 2016 if they can get their funding sources lined up quickly.
Code Enforcement- Mayor Spaeth reported that the Code Enforcement Officer was on vacation and reports for July and August would be issued next month.
Joint Youth – Mayor Spaeth reported that the summer camp season had concluded. He stated there were a few issues that should be addressed and the commission would be meeting in early September to review the season.
TRANSFERS
Treasurer Nathanial Matthews requested the following Transfer:
$4,500.00
From: F9950.9 – Transfer to Cap Reserve – Water
To: F8320.402.– Water – Source Supply – Repair/Maint.
Reason – To cover emergent repair to VFD
Reason – to cover construction docs and application for grant for spillway park(s)
Trustee Ellsworth made a motion to approve the transfers as presented. The motion was seconded by Trustee Markiewicz and carried by voice vote as follows:
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Bills to be paid from the General Fund in the amount of $ 61,827.94 from the Water Fund in the amount of $ 16,567.95, from the Joint Youth Fund in the amount of $ 4,983.83 and from the Capital Reserve Highway fund in the amount of $ 16,320.73 were presented for payment. Motion to approve payment was made by Trustee Markiewicz, seconded by Trustee Ellsworth, discussed, and carried by voice vote as follows:
ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORTS
A motion to approve the Annual Financial Report for Village was made by Trustee Barnett, seconded by Trustee Markiewicz, and carried by voice vote as follows:
A motion to approve the Annual Financial Report for Joint Youth Commission was made by Trustee Markiewicz, seconded by Trustee Barnett, and carried by voice vote as follows:
OLD BUSINESS:
Mayor Spaeth reported he would like to form a committee to review the current park use rules and make recommendations for changes or determine if the rules are sufficient as written. He indicated the Clerk has also provided copies of several municipal park use rules for additional input. After discussion, Trustee Ginter and Trustee Ellsworth were appointed to the committee.
Mayor Spaeth addressed the Board about potentially leasing and/or purchasing the Legion property and asked for input. Trustee Barnett stated he was concerned about the Village purchasing a building just to house Fulmont, an agency that is utilized by surrounding municipalities. Mayor Spaeth stated there is nothing available for them to rent. He stated that he felt Fulmont provides a great service for our community and that extends past the boundaries of the Village. He stated that the people that access Fulmont services send their children to our school and pay school taxes in our community. Trustee Ellsworth stated the Third Street building definitely needs to come down and we don’t want to throw Fulmont out. After continued discussion, the Board agreed to pursue the idea of leasing the Legion building and Mayor Spaeth stated he would speak with Bill Mackey.
As previously reported, construction of the cold storage facility was completed and as such, Trustee Barnett made a motion to utilize funds that have been accumulated in a reserve fund for the purpose of construction of a cold storage facility, which fund is designated RH231.1 Capital Reserve for Highway Garage, under General Municipal Law 6-c, and the amount that will be utilized from the reserve fund should not exceed $ 100,000.00. The motion was seconded by Trustee Markiewicz and carried by voice vote as follows:
NEW BUSINESS:
Mayor Spaeth presented a request from the Civic Association to conduct October Fest in the Waterfront Park on October 10th from 1-7 p.m. Trustee Barnett made a motion to approve the Civic Association request for park use as presented. The motion was seconded by Trustee Markiewicz and carried by voice vote as follows:
The Civic Association also presented a request for $ 375.00 to pay for hayrides at October Fest. It was noted this was covered by the Village at previous fall events. Trustee Barnett made a motion to approve $ 375.00 for hayrides at October Fest. The motion was seconded by Trustee Ellsworth and carried by voice vote as follows:
Mayor Spaeth presented a complaint from an individual regarding double parking on Main Street of a delivery vehicle in front of Shelby’s Kitchenette. The individual questioned the driver and was told the business owner told him to double park and not take up customer parking spaces. Mayor Spaeth noted that other businesses on Main Street block off the area in front of their store fronts if they are expecting a delivery. After discussion, Mayor Spaeth stated he would make the suggestion to the owner of Shelby’s to block off the parking spaces for delivery as the other Main Street businesses do.
Trustee Barnett discussed forming a policy regarding banners across Main Street. Trustee Barnett made a motion to allow banners to be strung across Main Street no earlier than 21 days before an event, with Board approval prior to going up. Trustee Markiewicz seconded the motion. Discussion ensued, and Mayor Spaeth stated that he felt 21 days was too short, indicating that he felt 30 days was sufficient. The motion presented by Trustee Barnett was carried by voice vote as follows:
Trustee Barnett received a report that a resident was parking their boat on the sidewalk/terrace area. As discussion continued, it was noted that several portions of sidewalks in both commercial and residential areas are being blocked by cars parking across them. Mayor Spaeth stated he would talk with Chief VanValkenberg about addressing these issues as we need to keep our sidewalks clear.
Mayor Spaeth reported about an ongoing issue with garbage being left out in bags along Ridge Road by seasonal residents. He said he had spoken with Vicky and Dennis Mullaney and they voiced concerns about seasonal residents not using cans for their trash as required by code and animals being attracted to the garbage left out. It was suggested that seasonal residents in that area construct a screened container and then two garbage cans could remain there permanently.
Trustee Ellsworth discussed the recent MVA at the top of Gould Hill and resident’s concerns that were voiced about the intersection. Mayor Spaeth stated he has spoken with Supervisor Groff and the only thing the Village could do is put a stop sign at the top of Gould Hill as the remaining roads of the intersection are County roads. He indicated that the Town will approach the County to try and get solar operated flashing lights to warn motorists of the intersection and larger stop signs. It was also suggested that “three way stop” signs be added to the current signs. Trustee Markiewicz made a motion to send a letter of support for the County’s assistance at this intersection with increased warning devices and larger stop signs. The motion was seconded by Trustee Ellsworth and carried by voice vote as follows:
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business before the Board, motion was made to adjourn by Trustee Barnett, seconded by Trustee Ellsworth and passed by voice vote with no one dissenting.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Wendy Reu, Clerk
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<h1><strong>REGULAR MEETING – VILLAGE OF NORTHVILLE</strong></h1> <h2>Tuesday, November 17, 2015</h2> <h2>The Village Board met Tuesday<strong>, N
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