May 14, 2008

 

This regular meeting was called to order at 7:04 pm by Supervisor Keith Batman with the following present:

 

Supervisor:                   Keith Batman                        Highway Superintendent:  Ron Walter

Council Members:              Gary Goodnough                  Town Assessor: Scott Snyder

                                    Mark Malys                           Town Clerk:  Judith Rowlands

                                                                                    County Legislator: George Fearon

                                                                                    Guests: Rolland Dodge, Keith Welch

Excused:                      Greg Rury

Absent:             Gary Whitten

 

MOTION:                   To accept the minutes of the April 9, 2008 regular meeting

as written. (Goodnough/Malys).  All in favor.  

 

There was discussion regarding advantages and disadvantages of having an assessment reevaluation done in 2009.  2009 would be consistent with the previous pattern of doing a reval every 3 years. The surrounding towns are on a similar pattern, so assessors can easily collaborate.  The results of a county survey to research advantages of changing the assessment procedures will not be available in time to influence.  Town Assessor Scott Snyder answered questions about the assessment process.

 

RESOLUTION:        To do an assessment reevaluation in 2009 at a cost of $20,000.

                                    (Goodnough/Malys).  All in favor.

  

REPORTS:

Supervisor:  Keith Batman reported that he met with Dave Miller and learned more about the

process of setting up a wind farm.  He has spoken with a couple of attorneys and Town of

Fenner’s Supervisor. The Board agreed to look over the attorneys’ prospectuses, and wait a month

or two to see what the landowners’ response is.  About ten-twelve people have

shown interest in serving on the Wind Farm Citizens’ Advisory Committee.  The Broadband

Citizens’ Advisory Committee will be meeting this coming Saturday to consider best option for

high speed internet service.   The county is working on the option of worker’s compensation

insurance through self-coverage.  Clean up Day went well.  A town resident has offered to pick up

scrap metal and freon appliances; Keith will check with the town attorney regarding the town’s

liability and advisability of involvement.  The School Budget presentation took place on May 7th

with 5 or 6 attending.

 

Highway Superintendent:  Ron Walter reported that prices of fuel and materials are going up.  He is checking on exit lighting the back door, and a light for the flag.

 

Comprehensive Plan Committee:  Mark Malys reported that the Comprehensive Plan Survey results are in, and recommended they be put on the website if the format is compatible.  Kristy LaManche has accepted another job, so her replacement will be helping with the rest of the analysis process. Mark offered to bring in his laptop computer to check on wireless internet access at the town office.                 

 

County Legislator: George Fearon recommended checking on wind turbines’ potential for multiple uses such as radio or broadband. Sales tax picked up in April.  He can pass along emergency notification emails he receives to anyone interested – just contact him.  There was discussion of the highway department radio system.

 

 

 

MOTION:            To appoint Jim Macbeth, at Phil Buckhout’s recommendation, to the Zoning

Board of Appeals for a 5-year term at a salary of $125.00 per year.  (Malys/Goodnough).  All in favor.

 

MOTION:            To appoint Keith Batman Marriage Official for the Town of Scipio,

at no salary. (Malys/Goodnough).  All in favor.

 

New Business: 

Mark passed along greetings from former Supervisor Chuck Howell.  Keith Batman will ask him of his interest in serving as Budget Officer.

 

There was discussion about the 27-foot lake frontage strips that are for sale in Scipio near the Fleming town line. While this situation is not addressed in the current Scipio Zoning Law, Keith agreed to ask the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals to consider regulation of lakefront lot size for the future.

 

MOTION:                               To accept and approve the following vouchers for payment:         

                                                General:   Vouchers #   60-77                                              5,547.27

                                                Highway:  Vouchers #  22-25                                            41,608.44

                                                TOTAL                                                                             47,155.71

                                                (Goodnough/Malys). All in favor.

 

MOTION:                   To adjourn the meeting at 8:53 pm.  (Malys/Goodnough). All in favor.

 

The next regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday June 11th at 7:00 pm.  The semi-annual audit of the Books will take place at 6:30 pm prior to the meeting.

 

                                                            Respectfully submitted,

 

 

                                                            Judith Rowlands, Clerk