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Minutes of meeting held January 11, 2010
CANAAN TOWN BOARD MEETING
JANUARY 11TH, 2010
Supervisor Richard Keaveney opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag followed by a moment of silence.
PRESENT: Supervisor Richard Keaveney
Councilperson Brenda Adams
Councilperson Peter Stelling
Councilperson Carrie Bither
Councilperson David Patzwahl
Town Clerk Charlotte Cowan
Highway Superintendent Bernhard Meyer
Assessor Jean Rohde
AUDIENCE: 18
MINUTES: Councilperson David Patzwahl made a motion, seconded by Supervisor Richard Keaveney, to approve the December 11th, 2009 minutes. 5-ayes
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
BILLS: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to approve the payment of all bills presented: General Fund Encumbered Bills: #450 - #491 in the amount of $15,872.22; General Fund Bills: #1 - #6, in the amount of $16,892.11. Highway Encumbered Bills: #161 - #172, in the amount of $21,589.33. Highway Fund Bills #1 - #2 in the amount of $259.61. .
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
Supervisor’s Monthly Finance Report:
Town Clerk Revenues: $ 112.41
Highway Fund Balance: $339,810.33
Highway Fund-Capital Balance: $ 96,810.64
Lighting Districts Balance: $ 791.54
Ambulance Districts
and Fire Districts Balance: $ 2,294.64
Building Inspector Revenues: $ 580.00
Planning Board Revenues: $ 25.00
Recreation Balance: $ 3,177.36
General Fund Balance: $ 164,312.09
Court Revenues: $
Tax Collector: $
Covanta – Transfer Station Revenues November: $13,135.90.
RESOLUTION #40 –INSTRUCT THE TOWN’S ENGINEER, CREIGHTON & MANNING TO EXERCISE THE ‘NULL’ OPTION ON THE VANDERBURGH ROAD PROJECT. Councilperson David Patzwahl made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither to adopt Resolution #40. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Resolution #40 adopted.
RESOLUTION #41 – SPEED LIMIT REDUCTION REQUEST FROM 45 MPH TO 35 MPH ON STATE ROUTE 295 FROM JUST EAST OF BEEBE POND ROAD TO JUST WEST OF STONY KILL ROAD.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Brenda Adams, to adopt resolution #41. 5-ayes.
Councilperson Carrie Bither to adopt Resolution #40. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Resolution #41 adopted.
RESOLUTION #42 – TRANSFERRING FUNDS TO ADJUST THE 2009 BUDGET
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Brenda Adams, to adopt Resolution #42. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Resolution #42 adopted.
HIGHWAY REPORT: Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer, read his monthly report. The report is on file at the Town Clerk Office and may be viewed during normal office hours.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson David Patzwahl, to permit Superintendent Meyer to use $2,500.00 from the Garage Account to continue upgrading the Highway Garage. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Peter Stelling, to approve the 284 AGREEMENT to improve seven miles of roads at the cost of $97,220. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Brenda Adams, for Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer, to go out to bid for a used excavator. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer read his opinion of the Vanderburgh project and asked that it be entered in record.
“In addition to the monthly report I want to express my sadness at the demise of the Vanderburgh Road Project. This was a project that I felt was not only worthy but a necessity for the safety of the motoring public.
“We took a long hard look at the intersection during the summer of 2004 and started collecting accident information, had conversations with DOT engineers and spoke with DEC regarding the adjoining wet lands.
“In the fall of 2005 we received a solicitation letter from the Columbia County Transportation Advisory Committee. They were working with NYS DOT looking for transportation projects for Federal funding. I submitted an application specifically stating there was very limited sight distance at the intersection of Vanderburgh Road and State Route 295. In December 2005 we were notified that our project rated 6 out of 12 for Columbia County and would be forwarded to NYS DOT Region 8.
“In March of 2006 we were notified by DOT that our project had been accepted. We went to Poughkeepsie to meet with the representatives from Region 8. The DOT reps explained that in order to receive funding for this project we needed to follow the federal guidelines and that our portion would be 5% ~ in other words the towns’ responsibility would be a nickel for every dollar spent on the project With that in mind and the town supervisors approval we went forward. It took a year to get the agreements in place before we were allowed to start the engineer selection process. Protocol required contacting the 15 firms on the Locally Driven Selection Arrangements list which we did. The Vanderburgh Road committee reviewed all the responses, created a short list and interviewed the candidates and consequently Creighton Manning Engineering was selected.
“In July of 2007, DOT was notified of the engineer selection and by January of 2008 we were given the go ahead to start the design report phase. The federal guidelines required us to submit alternative solutions in the design report consequently many months were spent on gathering information. Traffic studies were done, social, economic and environmental impacts were researched and alternatives were looked into in order to present a comprehensive draft design report to DOT. The design report was submitted to DOT in May of 2009 for their review.
“In August a public informational meeting was held. At this time we presented to the public an overview of the alternatives. The funding process was reiterated ~ the towns’ share of the project would be 5% or roughly $50,000.00. We asked for comments & concerns which would be taken into concerns which would be taken into consideration in preparing the final design. Misinformation derived from the meeting was circulated and in September, a petition that was signed by a few residents on Vanderburgh Road was presented to the town board. We forwarded the petition as well as all the comments to DOT for their review and requested a meeting with them to see how we could mitigate some of the concerns that were brought up and still meet the federal guidelines.
“By the end of October, DOT had reviewed the submitted draft design report as well as the forwarded comments and agreed to a meeting. Of the three alternatives submitted, the roundabout at County 30 & State Rte 295 was rejected due to cost as well as it primarily involved a county & state road ~ not a town road. The “Do Nothing” alternative was really not acceptable as a safety issue has been acknowledged and the third alternative was to move the road. Moving the road was the chosen alternative. The actual placement of the new road had not been established at this time because we were looking for ways to accommodate those residents that had concerns. Discussed at the meeting was whether or not the FHWA would accept alternatives to hot mix paving and what the next step was in the project. DOT gave us permission to go forward. We were told the once the preliminary design agreement was signed and in place we could proceed with the ROW acquisition phase which would take roughly a year to complete.
“In November a second informational meeting was held despite the fact that we had no additional information to give.
“A conference call was held on December 22nd at which time we were told by DOT that the project had been pulled due to public discord.
“The engineers and I have been accused of being on the take with this project, an accusation that I find insulting. My only objective with this project was to improve the line of sight at this intersection. The safety of the motoring public as well as the safety of my men is imperative. Every time an expected service, i.e. plow truck, fuel truck, propane truck, or school bus exits Vanderburgh Road they are in peril. There is no such thing as a “jack rabbit” start with any heavy vehicle!
“I am dismayed that “ambiance” and personal interests took precedence over safety; the total disregard for others is a purely self centered action. I want to go on record that I as the highway superintendent for the Town of Canaan have done everything within my powers to remedy what I deem a dangerous intersection.”
Bernhard F. Meyer
Town of Canaan Highway
Superintendent, January 11, 2010
Councilperson Peter Stelling asked about a sign being placed at the Highway Garage to limit sand usage. Superintendent Meyer said how do you prevent a person doing a long driveway vs. a person doing a short walkway, on the amount of sand they may have as long as they use pails.
Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer, said that the speed limit signs are in place on the New Concord road.
BOARD DISCUSSION:
1. PLANNING BOARD COMPENSATION – Pierre Gontier, planning board member,
objects to the chairperson compensation. Mr. Gontier said that the other board members were in favor of the chairperson compensation idea. Supervisor Keaveney said that he would inquire what other Towns’ position are on the subject of Planning Board and Zoning Board compensation.
2. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH MUNICIPAL ASSESSMENT SERVICES for providing additional data and file cleanup services. Town Assessor, Jean Rohde, said that the files are not in the shape they should be and extra work is needed to update information. Councilperson David Patzwahl is concerned about this request.
MOTION: Councilperson Peter Stelling made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to have a letter written to the law enforcement to monitor uncovered loads being transported to the Covanta Transfer Station. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to investigate the cleaning along the edge of the Stoddard Park pond. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
ADJOURNMENT: Councilperson Brenda Adams made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to adjourn the meeting at 8:07 p.m. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Charlotte L. Cowan, RMC, CMC
Canaan Town Clerk
CANAAN TOWN BOARD MEETING
JANUARY 11TH, 2010
Supervisor Richard Keaveney opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag followed by a moment of silence.
PRESENT: Supervisor Richard Keaveney
Councilperson Brenda Adams
Councilperson Peter Stelling
Councilperson Carrie Bither
Councilperson David Patzwahl
Town Clerk Charlotte Cowan
Highway Superintendent Bernhard Meyer
Assessor Jean Rohde
AUDIENCE: 18
MINUTES: Councilperson David Patzwahl made a motion, seconded by Supervisor Richard Keaveney, to approve the December 11th, 2009 minutes. 5-ayes
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
BILLS: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to approve the payment of all bills presented: General Fund Encumbered Bills: #450 - #491 in the amount of $15,872.22; General Fund Bills: #1 - #6, in the amount of $16,892.11. Highway Encumbered Bills: #161 - #172, in the amount of $21,589.33. Highway Fund Bills #1 - #2 in the amount of $259.61. .
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
Supervisor’s Monthly Finance Report:
Town Clerk Revenues: $ 112.41
Highway Fund Balance: $339,810.33
Highway Fund-Capital Balance: $ 96,810.64
Lighting Districts Balance: $ 791.54
Ambulance Districts
and Fire Districts Balance: $ 2,294.64
Building Inspector Revenues: $ 580.00
Planning Board Revenues: $ 25.00
Recreation Balance: $ 3,177.36
General Fund Balance: $ 164,312.09
Court Revenues: $
Tax Collector: $
Covanta – Transfer Station Revenues November: $13,135.90.
RESOLUTION #40 –INSTRUCT THE TOWN’S ENGINEER, CREIGHTON & MANNING TO EXERCISE THE ‘NULL’ OPTION ON THE VANDERBURGH ROAD PROJECT. Councilperson David Patzwahl made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither to adopt Resolution #40. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Resolution #40 adopted.
RESOLUTION #41 – SPEED LIMIT REDUCTION REQUEST FROM 45 MPH TO 35 MPH ON STATE ROUTE 295 FROM JUST EAST OF BEEBE POND ROAD TO JUST WEST OF STONY KILL ROAD.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Brenda Adams, to adopt resolution #41. 5-ayes.
Councilperson Carrie Bither to adopt Resolution #40. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Resolution #41 adopted.
RESOLUTION #42 – TRANSFERRING FUNDS TO ADJUST THE 2009 BUDGET
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Brenda Adams, to adopt Resolution #42. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Resolution #42 adopted.
HIGHWAY REPORT: Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer, read his monthly report. The report is on file at the Town Clerk Office and may be viewed during normal office hours.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson David Patzwahl, to permit Superintendent Meyer to use $2,500.00 from the Garage Account to continue upgrading the Highway Garage. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Peter Stelling, to approve the 284 AGREEMENT to improve seven miles of roads at the cost of $97,220. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Brenda Adams, for Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer, to go out to bid for a used excavator. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer read his opinion of the Vanderburgh project and asked that it be entered in record.
“In addition to the monthly report I want to express my sadness at the demise of the Vanderburgh Road Project. This was a project that I felt was not only worthy but a necessity for the safety of the motoring public.
“We took a long hard look at the intersection during the summer of 2004 and started collecting accident information, had conversations with DOT engineers and spoke with DEC regarding the adjoining wet lands.
“In the fall of 2005 we received a solicitation letter from the Columbia County Transportation Advisory Committee. They were working with NYS DOT looking for transportation projects for Federal funding. I submitted an application specifically stating there was very limited sight distance at the intersection of Vanderburgh Road and State Route 295. In December 2005 we were notified that our project rated 6 out of 12 for Columbia County and would be forwarded to NYS DOT Region 8.
“In March of 2006 we were notified by DOT that our project had been accepted. We went to Poughkeepsie to meet with the representatives from Region 8. The DOT reps explained that in order to receive funding for this project we needed to follow the federal guidelines and that our portion would be 5% ~ in other words the towns’ responsibility would be a nickel for every dollar spent on the project With that in mind and the town supervisors approval we went forward. It took a year to get the agreements in place before we were allowed to start the engineer selection process. Protocol required contacting the 15 firms on the Locally Driven Selection Arrangements list which we did. The Vanderburgh Road committee reviewed all the responses, created a short list and interviewed the candidates and consequently Creighton Manning Engineering was selected.
“In July of 2007, DOT was notified of the engineer selection and by January of 2008 we were given the go ahead to start the design report phase. The federal guidelines required us to submit alternative solutions in the design report consequently many months were spent on gathering information. Traffic studies were done, social, economic and environmental impacts were researched and alternatives were looked into in order to present a comprehensive draft design report to DOT. The design report was submitted to DOT in May of 2009 for their review.
“In August a public informational meeting was held. At this time we presented to the public an overview of the alternatives. The funding process was reiterated ~ the towns’ share of the project would be 5% or roughly $50,000.00. We asked for comments & concerns which would be taken into concerns which would be taken into consideration in preparing the final design. Misinformation derived from the meeting was circulated and in September, a petition that was signed by a few residents on Vanderburgh Road was presented to the town board. We forwarded the petition as well as all the comments to DOT for their review and requested a meeting with them to see how we could mitigate some of the concerns that were brought up and still meet the federal guidelines.
“By the end of October, DOT had reviewed the submitted draft design report as well as the forwarded comments and agreed to a meeting. Of the three alternatives submitted, the roundabout at County 30 & State Rte 295 was rejected due to cost as well as it primarily involved a county & state road ~ not a town road. The “Do Nothing” alternative was really not acceptable as a safety issue has been acknowledged and the third alternative was to move the road. Moving the road was the chosen alternative. The actual placement of the new road had not been established at this time because we were looking for ways to accommodate those residents that had concerns. Discussed at the meeting was whether or not the FHWA would accept alternatives to hot mix paving and what the next step was in the project. DOT gave us permission to go forward. We were told the once the preliminary design agreement was signed and in place we could proceed with the ROW acquisition phase which would take roughly a year to complete.
“In November a second informational meeting was held despite the fact that we had no additional information to give.
“A conference call was held on December 22nd at which time we were told by DOT that the project had been pulled due to public discord.
“The engineers and I have been accused of being on the take with this project, an accusation that I find insulting. My only objective with this project was to improve the line of sight at this intersection. The safety of the motoring public as well as the safety of my men is imperative. Every time an expected service, i.e. plow truck, fuel truck, propane truck, or school bus exits Vanderburgh Road they are in peril. There is no such thing as a “jack rabbit” start with any heavy vehicle!
“I am dismayed that “ambiance” and personal interests took precedence over safety; the total disregard for others is a purely self centered action. I want to go on record that I as the highway superintendent for the Town of Canaan have done everything within my powers to remedy what I deem a dangerous intersection.”
Bernhard F. Meyer
Town of Canaan Highway
Superintendent, January 11, 2010
Councilperson Peter Stelling asked about a sign being placed at the Highway Garage to limit sand usage. Superintendent Meyer said how do you prevent a person doing a long driveway vs. a person doing a short walkway, on the amount of sand they may have as long as they use pails.
Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer, said that the speed limit signs are in place on the New Concord road.
BOARD DISCUSSION:
1. PLANNING BOARD COMPENSATION – Pierre Gontier, planning board member,
objects to the chairperson compensation. Mr. Gontier said that the other board members were in favor of the chairperson compensation idea. Supervisor Keaveney said that he would inquire what other Towns’ position are on the subject of Planning Board and Zoning Board compensation.
2. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH MUNICIPAL ASSESSMENT SERVICES for providing additional data and file cleanup services. Town Assessor, Jean Rohde, said that the files are not in the shape they should be and extra work is needed to update information. Councilperson David Patzwahl is concerned about this request.
MOTION: Councilperson Peter Stelling made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to have a letter written to the law enforcement to monitor uncovered loads being transported to the Covanta Transfer Station. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to investigate the cleaning along the edge of the Stoddard Park pond. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
ADJOURNMENT: Councilperson Brenda Adams made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to adjourn the meeting at 8:07 p.m. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Charlotte L. Cowan, RMC, CMC
Canaan Town Clerk
CANAAN TOWN BOARD MEETING
JANUARY 11TH, 2010
Supervisor Richard Keaveney opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag followed by a moment of silence.
PRESENT: Supervisor Richard Keaveney
Councilperson Brenda Adams
Councilperson Peter Stelling
Councilperson Carrie Bither
Councilperson David Patzwahl
Town Clerk Charlotte Cowan
Highway Superintendent Bernhard Meyer
Assessor Jean Rohde
AUDIENCE: 18
MINUTES: Councilperson David Patzwahl made a motion, seconded by Supervisor Richard Keaveney, to approve the December 11th, 2009 minutes. 5-ayes
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
BILLS: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to approve the payment of all bills presented: General Fund Encumbered Bills: #450 - #491 in the amount of $15,872.22; General Fund Bills: #1 - #6, in the amount of $16,892.11. Highway Encumbered Bills: #161 - #172, in the amount of $21,589.33. Highway Fund Bills #1 - #2 in the amount of $259.61. .
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
Supervisor’s Monthly Finance Report:
Town Clerk Revenues: $ 112.41
Highway Fund Balance: $339,810.33
Highway Fund-Capital Balance: $ 96,810.64
Lighting Districts Balance: $ 791.54
Ambulance Districts
and Fire Districts Balance: $ 2,294.64
Building Inspector Revenues: $ 580.00
Planning Board Revenues: $ 25.00
Recreation Balance: $ 3,177.36
General Fund Balance: $ 164,312.09
Court Revenues: $
Tax Collector: $
Covanta – Transfer Station Revenues November: $13,135.90.
RESOLUTION #40 –INSTRUCT THE TOWN’S ENGINEER, CREIGHTON & MANNING TO EXERCISE THE ‘NULL’ OPTION ON THE VANDERBURGH ROAD PROJECT. Councilperson David Patzwahl made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither to adopt Resolution #40. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Resolution #40 adopted.
RESOLUTION #41 – SPEED LIMIT REDUCTION REQUEST FROM 45 MPH TO 35 MPH ON STATE ROUTE 295 FROM JUST EAST OF BEEBE POND ROAD TO JUST WEST OF STONY KILL ROAD.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Brenda Adams, to adopt resolution #41. 5-ayes.
Councilperson Carrie Bither to adopt Resolution #40. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Resolution #41 adopted.
RESOLUTION #42 – TRANSFERRING FUNDS TO ADJUST THE 2009 BUDGET
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Brenda Adams, to adopt Resolution #42. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Resolution #42 adopted.
HIGHWAY REPORT: Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer, read his monthly report. The report is on file at the Town Clerk Office and may be viewed during normal office hours.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson David Patzwahl, to permit Superintendent Meyer to use $2,500.00 from the Garage Account to continue upgrading the Highway Garage. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Peter Stelling, to approve the 284 AGREEMENT to improve seven miles of roads at the cost of $97,220. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Brenda Adams, for Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer, to go out to bid for a used excavator. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer read his opinion of the Vanderburgh project and asked that it be entered in record.
“In addition to the monthly report I want to express my sadness at the demise of the Vanderburgh Road Project. This was a project that I felt was not only worthy but a necessity for the safety of the motoring public.
“We took a long hard look at the intersection during the summer of 2004 and started collecting accident information, had conversations with DOT engineers and spoke with DEC regarding the adjoining wet lands.
“In the fall of 2005 we received a solicitation letter from the Columbia County Transportation Advisory Committee. They were working with NYS DOT looking for transportation projects for Federal funding. I submitted an application specifically stating there was very limited sight distance at the intersection of Vanderburgh Road and State Route 295. In December 2005 we were notified that our project rated 6 out of 12 for Columbia County and would be forwarded to NYS DOT Region 8.
“In March of 2006 we were notified by DOT that our project had been accepted. We went to Poughkeepsie to meet with the representatives from Region 8. The DOT reps explained that in order to receive funding for this project we needed to follow the federal guidelines and that our portion would be 5% ~ in other words the towns’ responsibility would be a nickel for every dollar spent on the project With that in mind and the town supervisors approval we went forward. It took a year to get the agreements in place before we were allowed to start the engineer selection process. Protocol required contacting the 15 firms on the Locally Driven Selection Arrangements list which we did. The Vanderburgh Road committee reviewed all the responses, created a short list and interviewed the candidates and consequently Creighton Manning Engineering was selected.
“In July of 2007, DOT was notified of the engineer selection and by January of 2008 we were given the go ahead to start the design report phase. The federal guidelines required us to submit alternative solutions in the design report consequently many months were spent on gathering information. Traffic studies were done, social, economic and environmental impacts were researched and alternatives were looked into in order to present a comprehensive draft design report to DOT. The design report was submitted to DOT in May of 2009 for their review.
“In August a public informational meeting was held. At this time we presented to the public an overview of the alternatives. The funding process was reiterated ~ the towns’ share of the project would be 5% or roughly $50,000.00. We asked for comments & concerns which would be taken into concerns which would be taken into consideration in preparing the final design. Misinformation derived from the meeting was circulated and in September, a petition that was signed by a few residents on Vanderburgh Road was presented to the town board. We forwarded the petition as well as all the comments to DOT for their review and requested a meeting with them to see how we could mitigate some of the concerns that were brought up and still meet the federal guidelines.
“By the end of October, DOT had reviewed the submitted draft design report as well as the forwarded comments and agreed to a meeting. Of the three alternatives submitted, the roundabout at County 30 & State Rte 295 was rejected due to cost as well as it primarily involved a county & state road ~ not a town road. The “Do Nothing” alternative was really not acceptable as a safety issue has been acknowledged and the third alternative was to move the road. Moving the road was the chosen alternative. The actual placement of the new road had not been established at this time because we were looking for ways to accommodate those residents that had concerns. Discussed at the meeting was whether or not the FHWA would accept alternatives to hot mix paving and what the next step was in the project. DOT gave us permission to go forward. We were told the once the preliminary design agreement was signed and in place we could proceed with the ROW acquisition phase which would take roughly a year to complete.
“In November a second informational meeting was held despite the fact that we had no additional information to give.
“A conference call was held on December 22nd at which time we were told by DOT that the project had been pulled due to public discord.
“The engineers and I have been accused of being on the take with this project, an accusation that I find insulting. My only objective with this project was to improve the line of sight at this intersection. The safety of the motoring public as well as the safety of my men is imperative. Every time an expected service, i.e. plow truck, fuel truck, propane truck, or school bus exits Vanderburgh Road they are in peril. There is no such thing as a “jack rabbit” start with any heavy vehicle!
“I am dismayed that “ambiance” and personal interests took precedence over safety; the total disregard for others is a purely self centered action. I want to go on record that I as the highway superintendent for the Town of Canaan have done everything within my powers to remedy what I deem a dangerous intersection.”
Bernhard F. Meyer
Town of Canaan Highway
Superintendent, January 11, 2010
Councilperson Peter Stelling asked about a sign being placed at the Highway Garage to limit sand usage. Superintendent Meyer said how do you prevent a person doing a long driveway vs. a person doing a short walkway, on the amount of sand they may have as long as they use pails.
Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer, said that the speed limit signs are in place on the New Concord road.
BOARD DISCUSSION:
1. PLANNING BOARD COMPENSATION – Pierre Gontier, planning board member,
objects to the chairperson compensation. Mr. Gontier said that the other board members were in favor of the chairperson compensation idea. Supervisor Keaveney said that he would inquire what other Towns’ position are on the subject of Planning Board and Zoning Board compensation.
2. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH MUNICIPAL ASSESSMENT SERVICES for providing additional data and file cleanup services. Town Assessor, Jean Rohde, said that the files are not in the shape they should be and extra work is needed to update information. Councilperson David Patzwahl is concerned about this request.
MOTION: Councilperson Peter Stelling made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to have a letter written to the law enforcement to monitor uncovered loads being transported to the Covanta Transfer Station. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to investigate the cleaning along the edge of the Stoddard Park pond. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
ADJOURNMENT: Councilperson Brenda Adams made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to adjourn the meeting at 8:07 p.m. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Charlotte L. Cowan, RMC, CMC
Canaan Town Clerk
CANAAN TOWN BOARD MEETING
JANUARY 11TH, 2010
Supervisor Richard Keaveney opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag followed by a moment of silence.
PRESENT: Supervisor Richard Keaveney
Councilperson Brenda Adams
Councilperson Peter Stelling
Councilperson Carrie Bither
Councilperson David Patzwahl
Town Clerk Charlotte Cowan
Highway Superintendent Bernhard Meyer
Assessor Jean Rohde
AUDIENCE: 18
MINUTES: Councilperson David Patzwahl made a motion, seconded by Supervisor Richard Keaveney, to approve the December 11th, 2009 minutes. 5-ayes
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
BILLS: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to approve the payment of all bills presented: General Fund Encumbered Bills: #450 - #491 in the amount of $15,872.22; General Fund Bills: #1 - #6, in the amount of $16,892.11. Highway Encumbered Bills: #161 - #172, in the amount of $21,589.33. Highway Fund Bills #1 - #2 in the amount of $259.61. .
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
Supervisor’s Monthly Finance Report:
Town Clerk Revenues: $ 112.41
Highway Fund Balance: $339,810.33
Highway Fund-Capital Balance: $ 96,810.64
Lighting Districts Balance: $ 791.54
Ambulance Districts
and Fire Districts Balance: $ 2,294.64
Building Inspector Revenues: $ 580.00
Planning Board Revenues: $ 25.00
Recreation Balance: $ 3,177.36
General Fund Balance: $ 164,312.09
Court Revenues: $
Tax Collector: $
Covanta – Transfer Station Revenues November: $13,135.90.
RESOLUTION #40 –INSTRUCT THE TOWN’S ENGINEER, CREIGHTON & MANNING TO EXERCISE THE ‘NULL’ OPTION ON THE VANDERBURGH ROAD PROJECT. Councilperson David Patzwahl made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither to adopt Resolution #40. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Resolution #40 adopted.
RESOLUTION #41 – SPEED LIMIT REDUCTION REQUEST FROM 45 MPH TO 35 MPH ON STATE ROUTE 295 FROM JUST EAST OF BEEBE POND ROAD TO JUST WEST OF STONY KILL ROAD.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Brenda Adams, to adopt resolution #41. 5-ayes.
Councilperson Carrie Bither to adopt Resolution #40. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Resolution #41 adopted.
RESOLUTION #42 – TRANSFERRING FUNDS TO ADJUST THE 2009 BUDGET
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Brenda Adams, to adopt Resolution #42. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Resolution #42 adopted.
HIGHWAY REPORT: Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer, read his monthly report. The report is on file at the Town Clerk Office and may be viewed during normal office hours.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson David Patzwahl, to permit Superintendent Meyer to use $2,500.00 from the Garage Account to continue upgrading the Highway Garage. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Peter Stelling, to approve the 284 AGREEMENT to improve seven miles of roads at the cost of $97,220. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Brenda Adams, for Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer, to go out to bid for a used excavator. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer read his opinion of the Vanderburgh project and asked that it be entered in record.
“In addition to the monthly report I want to express my sadness at the demise of the Vanderburgh Road Project. This was a project that I felt was not only worthy but a necessity for the safety of the motoring public.
“We took a long hard look at the intersection during the summer of 2004 and started collecting accident information, had conversations with DOT engineers and spoke with DEC regarding the adjoining wet lands.
“In the fall of 2005 we received a solicitation letter from the Columbia County Transportation Advisory Committee. They were working with NYS DOT looking for transportation projects for Federal funding. I submitted an application specifically stating there was very limited sight distance at the intersection of Vanderburgh Road and State Route 295. In December 2005 we were notified that our project rated 6 out of 12 for Columbia County and would be forwarded to NYS DOT Region 8.
“In March of 2006 we were notified by DOT that our project had been accepted. We went to Poughkeepsie to meet with the representatives from Region 8. The DOT reps explained that in order to receive funding for this project we needed to follow the federal guidelines and that our portion would be 5% ~ in other words the towns’ responsibility would be a nickel for every dollar spent on the project With that in mind and the town supervisors approval we went forward. It took a year to get the agreements in place before we were allowed to start the engineer selection process. Protocol required contacting the 15 firms on the Locally Driven Selection Arrangements list which we did. The Vanderburgh Road committee reviewed all the responses, created a short list and interviewed the candidates and consequently Creighton Manning Engineering was selected.
“In July of 2007, DOT was notified of the engineer selection and by January of 2008 we were given the go ahead to start the design report phase. The federal guidelines required us to submit alternative solutions in the design report consequently many months were spent on gathering information. Traffic studies were done, social, economic and environmental impacts were researched and alternatives were looked into in order to present a comprehensive draft design report to DOT. The design report was submitted to DOT in May of 2009 for their review.
“In August a public informational meeting was held. At this time we presented to the public an overview of the alternatives. The funding process was reiterated ~ the towns’ share of the project would be 5% or roughly $50,000.00. We asked for comments & concerns which would be taken into concerns which would be taken into consideration in preparing the final design. Misinformation derived from the meeting was circulated and in September, a petition that was signed by a few residents on Vanderburgh Road was presented to the town board. We forwarded the petition as well as all the comments to DOT for their review and requested a meeting with them to see how we could mitigate some of the concerns that were brought up and still meet the federal guidelines.
“By the end of October, DOT had reviewed the submitted draft design report as well as the forwarded comments and agreed to a meeting. Of the three alternatives submitted, the roundabout at County 30 & State Rte 295 was rejected due to cost as well as it primarily involved a county & state road ~ not a town road. The “Do Nothing” alternative was really not acceptable as a safety issue has been acknowledged and the third alternative was to move the road. Moving the road was the chosen alternative. The actual placement of the new road had not been established at this time because we were looking for ways to accommodate those residents that had concerns. Discussed at the meeting was whether or not the FHWA would accept alternatives to hot mix paving and what the next step was in the project. DOT gave us permission to go forward. We were told the once the preliminary design agreement was signed and in place we could proceed with the ROW acquisition phase which would take roughly a year to complete.
“In November a second informational meeting was held despite the fact that we had no additional information to give.
“A conference call was held on December 22nd at which time we were told by DOT that the project had been pulled due to public discord.
“The engineers and I have been accused of being on the take with this project, an accusation that I find insulting. My only objective with this project was to improve the line of sight at this intersection. The safety of the motoring public as well as the safety of my men is imperative. Every time an expected service, i.e. plow truck, fuel truck, propane truck, or school bus exits Vanderburgh Road they are in peril. There is no such thing as a “jack rabbit” start with any heavy vehicle!
“I am dismayed that “ambiance” and personal interests took precedence over safety; the total disregard for others is a purely self centered action. I want to go on record that I as the highway superintendent for the Town of Canaan have done everything within my powers to remedy what I deem a dangerous intersection.”
Bernhard F. Meyer
Town of Canaan Highway
Superintendent, January 11, 2010
Councilperson Peter Stelling asked about a sign being placed at the Highway Garage to limit sand usage. Superintendent Meyer said how do you prevent a person doing a long driveway vs. a person doing a short walkway, on the amount of sand they may have as long as they use pails.
Superintendent of Highways, Bernhard Meyer, said that the speed limit signs are in place on the New Concord road.
BOARD DISCUSSION:
1. PLANNING BOARD COMPENSATION – Pierre Gontier, planning board member,
objects to the chairperson compensation. Mr. Gontier said that the other board members were in favor of the chairperson compensation idea. Supervisor Keaveney said that he would inquire what other Towns’ position are on the subject of Planning Board and Zoning Board compensation.
2. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH MUNICIPAL ASSESSMENT SERVICES for providing additional data and file cleanup services. Town Assessor, Jean Rohde, said that the files are not in the shape they should be and extra work is needed to update information. Councilperson David Patzwahl is concerned about this request.
MOTION: Councilperson Peter Stelling made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to have a letter written to the law enforcement to monitor uncovered loads being transported to the Covanta Transfer Station. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
MOTION: Supervisor Richard Keaveney made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to investigate the cleaning along the edge of the Stoddard Park pond. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
ADJOURNMENT: Councilperson Brenda Adams made a motion, seconded by Councilperson Carrie Bither, to adjourn the meeting at 8:07 p.m. 5-ayes.
Roll call showed: Supervisor Richard Keaveney – yes;
Councilperson Brenda Adams – yes;
Councilperson Peter Stelling – yes;
Councilperson Carrie Bither – yes;
Councilperson David Patzwahl – yes. Motion Carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Charlotte L. Cowan, RMC, CMC
Canaan Town Clerk
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