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The Town Board of St. Johnsville

Minutes Archive - 2023

 

These Entries are SCANNED copies of the printed minutes and are published for general information only.

For Legal and OFFICIAL copies we recommend that you obtain them directly from the Town Clerk.

 

Note: Board Member Index - PS = Phoebe Sitterly - GH = George Haines - LR = Louise Robusto - MM = Martha Mancini - RH = Ronald Hezel

 

2023 - Jan.05 / Feb.09 / Feb.23 / Mar.09 / Mar.20 / Apl.13 /

 

TOWN BOARD REGULAR MEETING - July 13, 2023

A regular meeting of the Town of St. Johnsville was held on July 13, 2023, at 7:00 pm, at the Town Offices, 7431 STHWY 5, St. Johnsville, NY 13452

Present: Phoebe Sitterly, Supervisor; Louise Robusto, Councilwoman; Martha Mancini, Councilwoman; Ronald Hezel, Councilman; Norman Mastromoro, Attorney for the Town & Lynn Stever, Town Clerk

Absent: George Haines, Councilman

Public: William Putman, Hwy. Superintendent, Kelly Wilder, Bookkeeper, Michael Mancini, Katrina Caringi, Michael Isaac & Dawn Swartz

Meeting called to order 7:00 pm Salute to the flag

Roll Call - Councilman Haines absent

Public Comment - Michael Isaac questioned the board on the proposed Heidelberg expansion. Supervisor Sitterly said they cannot move forward until they fulfill DEC's requirements and the application is approved.. She also stated that they have offered to well checks on surrounding properties. The Town Board does not have a great deal of authority, however they can have input on ingress & egress and things like dust control. The approval/disapproval on the expansion is from the DEC. (Please see Mining Update under Old Business)

Minutes - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to accept the minutes of June 8, 2023; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-078)

Departmental Reports - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to accept the Town Clerk, Justice, Code Enforcement Officer & Dog Control Officer's monthly reports; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-079)

Correspondence - a letter of application was received from Anthony Howland indicating interest in the position of Code Enforcement Officer.

Old Business

1. Mining Update - Supervisor Sitterly stated that she has been invited to tour Heidelberg tomorrow as well as any board member who might be interested. Attorney Mastromoro will reword the proposed Local Law. No. 4 of 2023 further regulating quarrying in the Town of St. Johnsville. Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to set a public hearing for August 10, 2023, at 6:45 pm on proposed Local Law No. 4 of 2023 as amended; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-077)

2. Code Enforcement - Supervisor Sitterly said that issues continue to arise between the new Amish residents and our Code Officer. At a public meeting James Castrucci, CEO agreed that the same blueprints could be used if the homes were identical and within the same family. Jim stated that the home that is being constructed on STHWY 5 is not using the same blueprints and has refused the permit and payment. The Town has received another letter of interest for the position of Code Enforcement Officer from Anthony Howland; no board action was taken.

3. Baum Road - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to rebid Baum Road paving with William Putman, Hwy. Superintendent to change the specs to read 1-1/2" top, less shimming and delete the paving of Edwards Road. (Res. #23-080) Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to hold bid opening at a public hearing on August 10, 2023, at 6:55 pm; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-081)

4. Garbage - Discussion continued on whether to continue or discontinue the garbage/recycling service within the Town of St. Johnsville. Motion by Sitterly, seconded by Robusto (to bring it to the table for a vote) to discontinue garbage/recycling and turn it back to the responsibility of each homeowner. Discussion followed with Sitterly stating that costs have risen considerably and will continue to increase each year, which would require overriding the tax cap each year to fund garbage collection. She also stated that we are the only town in Montgomery County that has garbage collection. Mancini stated that the people wanted garbage collection however in looking at the budget she cannot find enough to cover the current increase. Robusto stated that on an average $40,000 assessment the increase this coming year would be approximately $73.00. Hezel stated that the people he talked to were in favor of a tax increase if it was solely to continue garbage collection. Motion failed 3-1 with Sitterly voting yes, Hezel, Mancini & Robusto voting no. (Res. #23-082) Motion by Robusto, seconded by Hezel to hold an informational session regarding the garbage situation on August 2, 2023, at 6:30 pm at the High School; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-083) It was agreed to do a notice to the public on Facebook, Parent Square, Newspaper and Posters, indicating that this only affects residents outside of the Village.

New Business

1.Truck Purchase - Motion by Sitterly, seconded by Hezel to advertise for bids for a 2021 or newer four door, diesel pick-up with less than 40,000 to be opened at a public hearing to be held July 31, 2023, at 10:00 am; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-084)

2. Employee Assistance Program - Motion to approve by Hezel, seconded by Robusto; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-085)

Public Comment - none

Audit - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Sitterly to accept the audit (Voucher # 23-158 thru #23-169 for $13,733.48; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-086)

Adjournment - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-087) Meeting adjourned 8:51 pm

Submitted by: Lynn M. Stever, Town Clerk

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TOWN BOARD REGULAR MEETING - June 08, 2023

A regular meeting of the Town of St. Johnsville was held on June 8, 2023, at 7:00 pm, at the Town Offices, 7431 STHWY 5, St. Johnsville, NY 13452

Present: Phoebe Sitterly, Supervisor; Louise Robusto, Councilwoman; Martha Mancini, Councilwoman; Ronald Hezel, Councilman; Norman Mastromoro, Attorney for the Town & Lynn Stever, Town Clerk

Absent: George Haines, Councilman

Public: Michael Mancini & James Castrucci

**Bid Opening for Paving of Baum & Edwards Roads 6:45 pm. One bid received from Heidelberg in the amount of $210,648.75***

Meeting called to order 7:02 Salute to the flag

Roll Call Councilman Haines absent

Minutes - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Mancini to accept the minutes of May 11, 2023; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-069)

Departmental Reports - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Mancini to accept the Town Clerk, Justice, Code Enforcement Officer & Dog Control Officer's monthly reports; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-070)

Correspondence - letter from James Castrucci, Code Enforcement Officer & a notice of proposed rate increase from Blue Cross/Blue Shield

Old Business

1, Mining Update - Supervisor Sitterly informed the board that she is waiting on a call back from Patrick Connolly of the DEC regarding the proposed Local Law that we have sent for their review.

2. Other -none

New Business

1. Budget Transfer - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to transfer $34,000 from the Part-Town Fund Balance to B8160.4 to cover the increased costs for garbage pickup; passed 3-1, Mancini abstained. (Res. #23071)

2. Paving Bid for Baum & Edwards Rd. the board agreed to withhold any decision until William Putman, Hwy. Superintendent reviews it.

3. Proposed Local Law to Override Tax Cap for 2024 - under the 2% tax cap the town would be allowed to increase the budget by $5,600. In order to continue with curbside garbage pick-up an additional $35,000 would be needed. The tax rate currently for the part-town is $2.19/thousand, in 2024 it would be $3.70/thousand, which on a proposed average assessment of $40,000 the yearly increase would be $73.00. The other option would be to turn it back to the homeowners and they would contract privately with the hauler as was done prior to curbside collection. Councilwoman Mancini said we cannot discontinue curbside collection services and will not vote to raise taxes. A motion by Sitterly, seconded by Mancini to review account balances and come up with a solution to this issue next month; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-072)

4. Executive Session - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to enter into an executive session regarding personnel; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-073) 7:37 pm. At 8:01 pm the board asked James Castrucci into the executive session. Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to return to regular session with no action taken; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-074) 8:07pm. It was agreed and directed the Code Officer to one inspection trip per month and that the cell phone provided by the town with terminate in 30 days, since he now has an extension with voicemail at the town offices.

Public Comment - none

Audit - (423-134 through #23-157, $40,228.87) Motion to accept by Hezel, seconded by Mancini; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-075)

Adjournment - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-076) Meeting adjourned 8:10 pm

Submitted by: Lynn M. Stever Town Clerk 

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TOWN BOARD REGULAR MEETING - May 11 2023

A regular meeting of the Town of St. Johnsville was held on May 11, 2023, at 7:00 pm, at the Town Offices, 7431 STHWY 5, St. Johnsville, NY 13452

Present: Phoebe Sitterly, Supervisor; Louise Robusto, Councilwoman; Martha Mancini, Councilwoman; Ronald Hezel, Councilman; Norman Mastromoro, Attorney for the Town & Lynn Stever, Town Clerk

Absent: George Haines, Councilman

Public: Michael Mancini, William Putman, James Castrucci & Roy Thompson

Meeting called to order 7:01 pm Salute to the flag

Roll Call - Councilman Haines absent

Public Comment - Roy Thompson submitted a letter to the Town Board and a sample letter for residents to sign who are unaware of the proposed quarry expansion. He stated that an independent engineering firm has inspected his well, stating that he has 40' of water, took five samples of water to test, pictures of his water softener and used an ultraviolet light. They did not inspect the foundation. Supervisor Sitterly said she will provide Mr. Thompson with a contact number for the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.

Minutes - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to accept the minutes of April 13, 2023; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-056)

Departmental Reports - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to accept the monthly reports from the Town Clerk, Justice, Dog Control Officer, Code Enforcement Officer and Planning Board minutes of May 2023; passed 4-0. (#23-057)

Correspondence - Roy Thompson's letter regarding Heidelberg Materials quarry expansion concerns over blasting below the water table resulting in loss of private wells, as well as air quality and dust particles.

Old Business

1. Montgomery County Brush & Weeds Contract - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Mancini to accept the 2023/2024 contract at a cost of $5,600; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-058)

2. Other - none

New Business

1. Proposed Paving of Baum Road - William Putman, Hwy. Superintendent would like the board to go out for bids for the paving of Baum Road and Edwards Road. Motion by Hezel, seconded by Mancini to have the Hwy. Superintendent to draw up the specifications and have the Clerk advertise for bids to be returned by June 8, 2023, at 12:00 pm with bid opening on June 8, 2023, at 6:45 pm; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-059)

2. NYS Retirement Resolution - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to approve 5.87 days reported for Kelly Wilder, Bookkeeper; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-060)

3. Proposed LL No. 4 of 2023 - A local law amending the Land Use Law regarding quarries drafted by Attorney Mastromoro for the board's review. Motion by Hezel, by Robusto to send the draft to NYS DEC for their review; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-0614) It was agreed to include on the June agenda also.

4. Planning Board - The Town Clerk stated that on any subdivision application before the Planning Board, all property owners that border the proposed subdivision must be notified in writing of the proposed subdivision, along with the date and time of the public hearing prior to approval/denial. Motion by Hezel, seconded by Mancini to have the Planning Board make these notifications on Town letterhead and send Certified Mail-Return Receipt Requested; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-062) The Town Clerk will provide and form letter for the Planning Board to use.

5. Barton & Loguidice Contract - Motion by Robusto, seconded by Hezel to authorize Supervisor Sitterly to sign the contract; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-063) This contract provides the Town protection on proposed solar projects within the Township. Currently Cypress Creek would pay $10,000 to cover this protection and when the costs of services have been used down to $1,500, they would then need to replenish the account.

6. Executive Session (Personnel) - Attorney Mastromoro stated that it must be stated what Department the executive session is regarding. Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to enter into an executive session for personnel/codes at 7:55 pm; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-064) Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to return to regular session at 9:00 pm; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-065) Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto that the Supervisor shall draft a letter addressing concerns regarding code enforcement issues that have arisen, and meet with James Castrucci, Code Enforcement Officer and Norman Mastromoro, Attorney for the Town to clarify, address and resolve these issues; passed 4­0. (Res. #23-066)

Public Comment - none

Audit - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Mancini to accept the audit and authorize the Supervisor to pay Vouchers .#110-133 $22,257.93; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-067)

Adjournment - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-068) Meeting adjourned 9:16 pm

Submitted by: Lynn M. Stever Town Clerk

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TOWN BOARD REGULAR MEETING - April 13, 2023

A regular meeting of the Town of St. Johnsville was held on April 13 , 2023, at 7:00 pm, at the Town Offices, 7431 STHWY 5, St. Johnsville, NY 13452

Present: Phoebe Sitterly, Supervisor; Louise Robusto, Councilwoman; Ronald Hezel, Councilman; Norman Mastromoro, Attorney for the Town & Lynn Stever, Town Clerk Absent: Martha Mancini, Councilwoman & George Haines, Councilman

Public: Michael Mancini, Katrina Caringi, Roy Thompson, Justice Bruce Dye & James Castrucci

6:30 pm Public Hearing on proposed Local Law No. 3 of 2023, A Local Law to Amend the Town of St. Johnsville Land Use Law to Regulate Solar Energy Systems. Notice read by the Town Clerk. Katrina Caringi asked for an explanation of this law. The board stated that it is to change the size of arrays from 2MW to 5MW to be in compliance with NYS regulations. Public hearing closed 6:42 pm

*6:45 pm Audit of Justice Dye's court records by town board. Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to accept and found to be in compliance; passed 3-0. (Res. #23­047)

Meeting called to order 7:00 p.m.

Salute to the flag

Roll Call - Councilwoman Mancini and Councilman Haines absent

Public Comment - it was commented that the Military Banner Program is looking great. Katrina Caringi gave a quick presentation on the upcoming Earth Day in St. Johnsville that will take place on April 29 from 12-5:00 pm at 44 Bridge Street. Various vendors and activities will take place.

Minutes - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to accept the minutes of March 9th & March 20th  passed 3-0. (Res. #23-048)

Departmental Reports - Motion by Robusto, seconded by Hezel to accept the Town Clerk, Justice, Code Enforcement Officer & Dog Control Officer's Reports; passed 3-0. (Res. #23-049)

Correspondence -

-A letter from Anthony Algerio interested in serving on the Zoning Board of Appeals -A quote from NBT Insurance for and increase in insurance coverage.

-A letter from Katrina Caringi filing a formal complaint against the Code Enforcement Officer.

Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto appointing Anthony Algerio to the Zoning Board
of Appeals with a term expiration date of December 31, 2025; passed 3-0. (Res. #23-050)

Old Business

A. Frontier Fraud Case - nothing new to report per Attorney Mastromoro

New Business

1.   Local Law No. 3 of 2023 (changing the Town of St. Johnsville Land Use Law Regarding Solar Energy from 2MW to 5MW as per NYS - Motion to approve by Hezel, seconded by Robusto; passed 3-0. (Res. #23-051)

2.   Mining - Supervisor Sitterly presented a copy of the Town of Plattsburgh Mining Regulations for the board's review. Attorney Mastromoro stated that he feels this a very good sample. Items in addition that were discussed were notifications of when a blast will occur and the hours of the blasts, with a letter five days prior to blasting. Supervisor Sitterly said she will get a sample letter from Valentie to Attorney Mastromoro for his review. Attorney Mastromoro will then prepare a proposed Local Law. NO. 4 of 2023 for the board's review.

3.   Hanson Notifications - Supervisor Sitterly presented a letter that Roy Thompson of Mill Road received asking that he fill out and return. Supervisor Sitterly is suggesting that everyone that has received this questionnaire to fill it out, she feels it is a protection for the homeowners should they receive any damage from future blasting. Discussion took place regarding air quality, well and foundation stability, etc. It was suggested that letters of concern and/or a petition be sent to the DEC stating resident's concerns over blasting and the possibility of affecting numerous residents (not just the small handful that received letters) requesting that they also be included in the notification list.

4.   Montgomery County Brush & Weeks Contract - put on agenda for May meeting.

5.   Executive Session - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to enter into an executive session regarding personnel issues; passed 3-0. (Res. #23-052) (7:43 pm) Motion to return to regular session with no action taken by Hezel, seconded by Robusto; passed 3-0. (Res. #23-053) (7:54 pm)

Public Comment - Councilman Hezel stated that when he was obtaining signatures for his petition he discussed the garbage issue and people he spoke to were not against a tax increase to cover the increased costs for continuing curbside pickup. Supervisor Sitterly stated that various options will be costed out sometime in May and presented to the board for their review. James Castrucci, Dog Control Officer submitted a voucher the decreased amount of his salary as Dog Control Officer. Attorney Mastromoro stated that the position of Dog Control Officer is a yearly term. Mr. Castrucci term ended on December 31, 2022. His new appointment began January 1, 2023, which no longer covers the Village of St. Johnsville, therefore, the reason for his reduction in salary.

Audit - (#23-085 through #23-109 $83,433.94) Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto; passed 3-0. (Res. #23-054)

Adjournment - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto; passed 3-0. (Res. #23-055) Meeting adjourned 8:04 pm

Submitted by: Lynn M. Stever Town Clerk

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TOWN BOARD SPECIAL MEETING - March 20, 2023

A special meeting of the Town of St. Johnsville was held on March 20, 2023, at 9:00 am, at the Town Offices, 7431 STHWY 5, St. Johnsville, NY 13452

Present: Phoebe Sitterly, Supervisor; Louise Robusto, Councilwoman; Ronald Hezel, Councilman; George Haines, Councilman; Norman Mastromoro, Attorney for the Town & Lynn Stever, Town Clerk

Absent: Martha Mancini, Councilwoman

Public: Floyd Stever, Brandt Rostohar, Lee McIntyre

This special meeting was called to order 9:00 am

Public Comment - Questions from the public were addressed, stating that this is to change the current 2 MW limit to a 5MW limit as allowed by the State.

This is a special meeting to adopt for presentation Local Law No. 3 of 2023 at a public hearing to be held April 13, 2023 at 6:30 pm, at the request of the Planning Board who are dealing with a special permit that they cannot issue under the current Solar Law. This law would take effect immediately for any pending applications.

 

Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines to adopt for presentation proposed Local Law No. 3 of 2023, a Local Law to Amend the Town of St. Johnsville Land Use Law To Regulate Solar Energy Systems on April 13, 2023 at 6:30 pm; passed 4-0. Mancini absent. (Res. #23-045)

Adjournment - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines; passed 4-0. Mancini absent. (Res. #23-046) Meeting adjourned 9:40 pm

 

Submitted by: Lynn M. Stever Town Clerk

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TOWN BOARD REGULAR MEETING - March 09, 2023

A regular meeting of the Town of St. Johnsville was held on March 9, 2023, at 7:00 pm, at the Town Offices, 7431 STHWY 5, St. Johnsville, NY 13452

Present: Phoebe Sitterly, Supervisor; Louise Robusto, Councilwoman; Martha Mancini, Councilwoman; Ronald Hezel, Councilman; George Haines, Councilman; Norman Mastromoro, Attorney for the Town & Lynn Stever, Town Clerk

Absent: none

Public: Michael Mancini & James Castrucci

Meeting called to order 7:01 p.m. Salute to the flag

Roll Call - all present

Public Comment - none

Minutes - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines to accept the minutes of February 9th. Regular Meeting and February 23rd. Special Meeting & Public Hearing; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-036)

Departmental Reports - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Mancini to accept the Town Clerk, Code Enforcement Officer, Dog Control Officer and Justice monthly reports; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-037)

Correspondence - Letter from TY Services offering discounted services for the Town of St. Johnsville

Old Business

A. Copier/Scanner/FAX - has been repaired by Jesse Watson

B. Frontier Fraud - Attorney Mastromoro will respond by email a denial and request a copy of rules and regulation policy.

C. Other—none

New Business

A. Highway Agreement - Motion to accept as presented by William Putman, Highway Superintendent by Hezel, seconded by Haines; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-038)

B. Lottman Solar Permit - Michael Mancini, Chairman of the Planning Board reported that all is in order and the Planning Board will issue the permit at their next meeting. At a later date a representative will come and offer incentives to the public.

C. Justice Audit - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines to audit Bruce Dye, Justice records at the April 13th meeting at 6:45 pm; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-039)

D. Spring Clean-Up - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines to hold the Town of St. Johnsville Spring Clean-Up on the same dates at the Village of St. Johnsville, with dates to be determined; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-040)

E. Local Law No. 4 of 2022 - was not done properly and therefore not filed as a local law with the State of New York.

F. Garbage/Recycling Collection - Supervisor Sitterly asked the board members to be thinking what we are going to do for garbage and recycling before budget time arrives.

G. Quarry - Supervisor Sitterly said now that a six month moratorium has been passed, the board needs to poll other town to see their laws regulating quarries. Attorney Mastromoro said the Department of State website lists categories of reclamation/bonding, blasting hours, notice to residents, well/foundation checks, blasting areas from boundary lines, etc. as items to be considered.

Audit - (Voucher #23-057-084 $50,830.23) Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines approving and directing the Supervisor to pay; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-041)

Councilwoman Mancini stated that the Bookkeeper should provide balances for accounts at each meeting so that the board members know how much money is in each account prior to approving payments. Motion by Mancini, seconded by Hezel; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-042)

Adjournment - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-043) Meeting adjourned 8:00 pm

Submitted by: Lynn M. Stever – Town Clerk

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TOWN BOARD SPECIAL MEETING - February 23, 2023

A public hearing & special meeting of the Town of St. Johnsville was held on February 23, 2023, at 7:00 pm, at the Town Offices, 7431 STHWY 5, St. Johnsville, NY 13452

Present: Phoebe Sitterly, Supervisor; Louise Robusto, Councilwoman; Martha Mancini, Councilwoman; George Haines, Councilman; Norman Mastromoro, Attorney for the Town & Lynn Stever, Town Clerk

Absent: Ronald Hezel, Councilman

Public: Michael Mancini, Suzette Logan

7:00 pm Public Hearing on proposed Local Law No. 2 of 2023, "Establishing a six-month moratorium in the Town of St. Johnsville on the operation of newly proposed quarries and certain operations of existing quarries". Legal notice was read by the Clerk.

Suzette Logan questioned the board regarding various aspects of this moratorium. Supervisor Sitterly stated that it would give the town time to figure out what authorities they have and time to get them in place.

Motion to close the public hearing by Haines, seconded by Robusto; passed 4-1, Hezel absent (Res. #23-033)

Special meeting immediately following the public hearing, called to order 7:09 pm Motion to adopt Local Law No. 2 of 2023 by Robusto, seconded by Haines; passed 4-1, Hezel absent.(Res. #23-034)

Adjournment - Motion by Robusto, seconded by Haines, passed 4-1, Hezel absent. (Res. #23-035) Meeting adjourned 7:12 pm

Submitted by: Lynn M. Stever Town Clerk

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TOWN BOARD REGULAR MEETING - February 09, 2023

A regular meeting of the Town of St. Johnsville was held on February 09, 2023, at 7:00 pm, at the Town Offices, 7431 STHWY 5, St. Johnsville, NY 13452

Present: Phoebe Sitterly, Supervisor; Louise Robusto, Councilwoman; Martha Mancini, Councilwoman; Ronald Hezel, Councilman; George Haines, Councilman; Norman Mastromoro, Attorney for the Town & Lynn Stever, Town Clerk

Absent: none

Public: Michael Mancini, James Castrucci, Kathy Buckley, Julie Erno, Katrina Caringi, Charles Straney and a County Waste representative

**6:50 pm Bid Opening for Garbage/Recycling Contract**

Two bids were received. County Waste & Recycling $86,940.00 and Twin Bridges $144,900.00. Motion by Robusto, seconded by Hanes to table any decision on bids received; passed 4-1. Mancini voting no. (Res. #23-022)

Meeting called to order 7:04 p.m.

Salute to the flag

Roll Call - all present

Public Comment - James Castrucci addressed the board stating that it is illegal for the board to lower his salary and that he makes more in every other township he works for. He also questioned why he was not reappointed and is acting as a "holdover". Supervisor Sitterly stated that the position of Code Enforcement Officer was a "holdover" because the Town received a letter from an individual interested in the position. She suggested that these issues be addressed in an executive session. Councilwoman Mancini stated that Jim is correct that his salary cannot be reduced and that she feels he is doing a wonderful job. She also stated that people come to her store and tell her things before the Town Board or Village Board even knows about them. She also stated that Town business should be conducted at a Town meeting not at the local diner or Ripepi’s restaurant.

Minutes - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines to accept the minutes of January 5, 2023, with the correction of Sally Countryman reappointed to the Board of Appeals until 2027, not Margaret DiGiacomo (term ending in 2026); passed 5-0. (Res. 423-023)

Departmental Reports - Motion by accept the Town Clerk, Justice, Code Enforcement Officer, Dog Control Officer & Historian's reports; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-024)

Correspondence - none Old Business - none

New Business

1. Garbage/Recycling Bids - have been tabled.

2. James A. Brennan Animal Shelter Contract - the Town Clerk has negotiated a price of $1,000 for the 2023 calendar year, which covers four dogs, additional dogs placed would be at a cost of $250 each. Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines to accept; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-025) James Castrucci, Dog Control Officer suggested that the Town contract with either Glen Animal Hospital or another veterinary for emergency situations. He said Glen Animal Hospital currently charges another town $500/annually for an emergency contract.

3. Hanson Aggregates, LLC - a proposed expansion of their mining operation is currently filed with the Department of Environmental Conservation. Attorney Mastromoro suggested the town to consider a six month moratorium for expansion or new quarrying in the Town of St. Johnsville. This would allow the Planning Board time to draw up special considerations for a special use permit. Currently no specific conditions exist in the Town of St. Johnsville Land Use Law. Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines to propose a Local Law No. 3 for a six month moratorium on any new or expansion of quarrying to be presented at a public hearing/special meeting on February 23, 2023 at 7:00 pm; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-026) Attorney Mastromoro suggested a copy of this proposed law be sent to DEC, Hanson & Gravel Sales.

4. Military Banner Program - a short presentation from Julie Erno explaining the program, along with sample banners took place.

5. Internet/Copier/Scanner/FAX - Supervisor Sitterly proposed that she has asked Jesse Watson to come take a look at the situation regarding the copier issue. He has proposed that he would be able to clean-up the issues and have the scanner working and synced to each computer at a cost of $60/hr and approximately $300 in materials. Councilwoman Mancini questioned where in the budget would this be paid from and whether or not he is capable. Supervisor Sitterly said she has checked with the Bookkeeper and money is in the budget. Motion by Robusto, seconded by Haines to hire Jesse Watson; passed 4-1. Mancini abstaining. (Res. #23-027)

6. Code Enforcement Officer Application - Motion by Haines, seconded by Robusto to interview Stephanie Dye on March 9, 2023, at 6:45 pm; passed 4-1 Mancini abstaining. (Res. #23-028)

6. Executive Session - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines to enter into an executive session for personnel reasons; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-029) 8:30 pm Motion to return to regular session by Hezel, seconded by Haines; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-028) 8:37 pm Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines to remove the 15% insurance cost paid by the Highway Superintendent; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-030)

Public Comment - Lynn Stever, Town Clerk commented on the application from Stephanie Dye for the position of Code Enforcement Officer. She stated that she received a call from Mrs. Dye questioning whether she could apply for the position of Code Enforcement Officer. Stever told her yes anyone can, that it is a yearly appointment made by the town board. Directing her comments to Councilwoman Mancini, Stever said that numerous discussions have taken place at previous board meetings regarding the Code Officer, however, Councilwoman Mancini now states that she feels he is doing a wonderful job.

Audit - (#23-023 through $23-055, $35,290.37) Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-031)

Adjournment Motion by Hezel, seconded by Haines; passed 5-0. (Res. #23-032) Meeting adjourned 8:47 pm

Submitted by: Lynn M. Stever Town Clerk

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TOWN BOARD REGULAR MEETING - January 05, 2023

A regular/organizational meeting of the Town of St. Johnsville was held on January 5, 2023, at 7:00 pm, at the Town Offices, 7431 STHWY 5, St. Johnsville, NY 13452

Present: Phoebe Sitterly, Supervisor; Louise Robusto, Councilwoman; Martha Mancini, Councilwoman; Ronald Hezel, Councilman; Norman Mastromoro, Attorney for the Town & Lynn Stever, Town Clerk

Absent: George Haines, Councilman

Public: Michael Mancini; William Putman, Hwy. Sup. & Arthur Dockerty

*6:45 pm Public Hearing on proposed Local Law No. 1 of 2023, Enforcing NYS Fire & Building Code was held. Notice was read by the Clerk, no one from the public spoke. Motion to close the Public Hearing at 6:59 pm by Robusto, seconded Sitterly; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-001)

Meeting called to order 7:00 p.m.

Salute to the flag

Roll Call - Councilman George Haines absent

Public Comment - Supervisor Sitterly remarked that a pancake breakfast will be held on Route 163 in the Town of Minden to help with the costs they sustained from a recent fire at the Town Offices/Garage.

Minutes - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to accept the December 8, 2023 minutes with the correction that Martha Mancini, Councilwoman was absent; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-002)

Departmental Reports - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to accept the Town Clerk's, Justice's, Dog Control Officer's & Code Enforcement Officer's monthly reports; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-003)

Correspondence - letter of interest from Stephanie Dye for the position of Code Enforcement Officer/Land Use Officer

Old Business

1. Health Insurance Renewal - Motion by Robusto, seconded by Sitterly to renew with the Excellus SimplyBlue Plus Standard Silver (Option 3); passed 3-1 with Councilwoman Mancini abstaining (Res. #23-004)

2. Service for Scanner - Supervisor Sitterly reported to the board that she is trying to get the IT Technician at the school to look at it.

3. Hanson Aggregates - Supervisor Sitterly reported that she has been made aware of a mine expansion which is in the hands of the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. The previous Supervisor Dominick Stagliano was sent a letter on August 17, 2022, notifying the town of this proposed expansion and whether we have an interest in being lead agency with the SEQR and any issues or concerns the town may have. This was never brought before the board and we are only now being made aware of it because They contacted Dominick Stagliano again because they did not receive a reply from the town and he informed them that he is no longer Supervisor and that Phoebe Sitterly is the newly elected Supervisor and to forward all information to her. Attorney Mastromoro said the Town of St. Johnsville Land Use Law Section 13 deals with this issue and suggested that the DEC should be lead agency, however, he pointed out a concern he noted is that they are planning to go below the water table. Supervisor Sitterly will meet with NYS DEC in an attempt to gain additional information.

New Business

1. 2023 Wage & Appointment Schedule - see attached (Res. #23-005-#23-016)

2. Garbage/Recycling - Discussion took place regarding the proposed rate hikes from County Waste & Recycling. Motion by Robusto, seconded by Hezel to advertise for bids for a yearly contract for garbage/recycling curbside pick up to be returned by February 9, 2023, at 12:00 pm, and opened at the regular meeting on February 9, 2023, at 6:50 pm; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-017) The specifications will be the same as what was used for the original contract.

3. Local Law No. 1 of 2023 - Motion to accept by Hezel, seconded by Robusto; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-018)

4. Physical Inventory - discussion followed regarding the need for a physical inventory of the Town's assets. Jillian Wilder has completed physical inventories for various other townships and has agreed to also do it for the Town of St. Johnsville. Motion by Robusto, seconded by Hezel to hire Jillian Wilder at the rate of $15.00/hour to conduct our physical inventory of assets; passed 4-0. (Res. #237019)

Audit - Motion by Mancini, seconded by Hezel to accept the vouchers #22/254-22/259 & 23-001-23/022 and authorize the Supervisor to pay; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-020)

Adjournment - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-021) Meeting adjourned 8:40 pm

Submitted by: Lynn M. Stever - Town Clerk

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WAGE & FEE SCHEDULE 2023

OFFICIAL RESOLUTIONS - Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto; passed 4-0. (Res. #22-006.)

Official Newspapers: The Recorder

Depository: NBT

Monthly Meeting Date: 2nd Thursday of ea. Month at 7:00 p.m.

Resolution authorizing Supervisor to use a facsimile signature under her control and supervision to sign checks

Petty Cash Funds: T Clerk & Justice ($100.00 ea.) -

Official Website Webmaster: Ronald Hezel - (www.stjohnsville.com)

Motion by Robusto, seconded by Hezel to accept the above: passed 4-0 (Res #23-005)

 

ELECTED & APPOINTED POSITIONS

Supervisor - $8.840.00 - Sitterly (2023)

Councilman (4 @ $2,600.00 ea.) $10,40000 Total -  Mancini (2025),  Robusto (2025),  Hezel (2023),  Haines (2023)

Justice - $16,000.00 - Dye (2025)

Town Clerk/Tax Collector - $19,500.00 - Stever (2023)

Superintendent of Highways - $48,500.00 - Putman (2023)

Sole Appointed Assessor (6 yr. Term) -  $20,500.00 - Loucks (2025)

 

DEPARTMENT HEADS - Motion by Haines, seconded by Robusto; passed 4-0. (Res. #22-007)

Registrar (Fees Collected) - $10.00/copy

CEO - $4,200.00

LUEO - $1,200.00

Dog Control Officer - $1,000.00

Rabies Response Agent - $100.00/case

Historian (Supervisor's Appt.) - $500.00

Budget Officer - $1,400.00

Attorney for the Town of St. Johnsville - $125.00/hr. (+)

BAR Chairman *4 hr. min. griev. day - $150.00*

BAR Members *4 hr. min. griev. Day - $125.00*

* Motion by Robusto, seconded by Hezel to pay an additional $50.00 for any subsequent meeting if attended: Passed 4-0. Res.#23-008)

Planning Board Chairman - $75.00/ea.mtg (if attended)

Planning Board Members - $50.00/ea.mtg (if attended)

 

APPOINTMENTS - Motion by Mancini, seconded by Haines; passed 4-0. (Res. #22-008)

Registrar - L. Stever*

Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to approve Lynn Stever as Registrar; Passed 4-0.(Res. #23-010)

Bookkeeper - K. Wilder (appointed by Supervisor)

Court Clerk - K. Stowell (appointed by Justice)

Historian (Supervisor's Appointment) - M. Rapacz (appointed by Supervisor)

Deputy Supervisor - Louise Robusto (appointed by Sup.)

Deputy Clerk/Tax Coll./Registrar - Virginia Fox & George Stever (Clerk Appt.)

Deputy Hwy. Superintendent - Bert Cook, III (Hwy. Sup. Appt.)

CEO/LUEO/RRA - No appointment made James Castrucci remains as a holdover.

Planning Board Chairman - Michael Mancini

 

EMPLOYEES

Hwy. Employees: $21.00/hr. - Motion by Robusto, seconded by Hezel to increase to $21.00/hour ; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-011)

Deputy Hwy. Stipend $ .50/hr. (straight time only) Motion by Robusto , seconded by Hezel; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-012)

Bookkeeper $7,600.00/yr. Motion by Robusto, seconded by Hezel; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-013)

Court Clerk $ 8,500.00/yr. Motion by Robusto, seconded by Hezel; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-014)

 

MISCELLANEOUS

Motion by Hezel, seconded by Robusto to approve the following miscellaneous items; passed 4-0. (Res. #23-015)

BAR Training - $ min wage

Mile Reimbursement (IRS rate) - $ IRS rate

Land Use/Sub. Doc. Fee - $25.00

Returned Check Fee - $30.00

Photocopies $ .25/pg. After 1st. 4 pgs.

Dog Impound Fees (1st offense - $25.00) (2nd - $50.00) (3rd - $75.00)

Building Permit Fees as adopted 1/1/2018

Board of Assessment Review (5) Ronald Hezel (24) Michael Mancini (25) Sally Countryman (27) Margaret DiGiacomo* (26) Louise Robusto (23)

Motion by Robusto, seconded by Hezel to reappoint Margaret DiGiacomo to the Board of Assessment Review with a term ending 12/31/26 and

 to reappoint Anthony Smida to the Planning Board with a term ending 12/31/27; passed 4-0 (res. 23-016)

Planning Board Members (5) Michael Mancini *Chairman(24) - Sally Countryman (25) -  Julie Erno (26) - Anthony Smida* (22) Carol Ann Pearl (23)

Board of Appeals (5)  Robert Smith (23) , **vacancy** (24) **vacancy** (25), Mariah Decker (26),**Vacancy**  (27)

James A Brennan Shelter Contract increased to $3,000.00

( No approval of this contract was made due to the increased cost. It was agreed to check with other shelters )

Village of St. Johnsville Fire Contract $40,185.00 as per Town Budget.

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