This Regular Meeting of the Brant Town Board was held on Tuesday, March 11, 2014 at the Brant Town Hall, located at 1272 Brant North Collins Rd, Brant, New York at 7:00 PM.

PRESENT WERE:

Leonard K. Pero Supervisor
Chad Kaczmarek Councilman
Donald Clark Councilman
Jeffrey Gier, Councilman
Mark DeCarlo, Councilman
William J Trask, Sr. Town Attorney
Barbara J. Daniel, Town Clerk, Recording Secretary

Also present and signed in were:

Joseph Ostrowski Planning Board Chairman
Lynda Ostrowski, Deputy Town Clerk
Patricia Friend, Town Historian
Joseph DeCarlo, Assessor
Lee Brunelli, resident
Brian Rott Resident
Debra Ritz, resident
Selena Schmitt, resident
Samantha Gier
Joseph Giambrone, Highway Superintendent
Frank Broughton, Resident
Allen Nolan, Building Superintendent
Kiley Nolan, Resident
Nick Burbige, resident
Sammy Sicurella, Highway Laborer
Karl Simmeth – Representative of State Assemblyman David DiPietro
Brian Campbell, SUN reporter
Patrick Kelly, National Fuel Gas
Luke Anderson, National Fuel Gas
Jeff Grice, National Fuel Gas

The meeting opened at 7:00 PM with a pledge to the flag. 

MINUTE APPROVAL FEBRUARY 11, 2014 Regular Town Board meeting.  Councilman Gier motioned to accept the minutes with the noted change, and was seconded by Councilman Clark.  5 ayes, 0 nays. MOTION CARRIED. 

Town Historian Patty Friend had to depart the meeting early, therefore the Board allowed her to present her report out of its normal sequence:

TOWN HISTORIAN REPORT Town Historian Patricia Friend presented her report.  She then noted that the centennial book celebrating its 175th anniversary has been sent for printing.  She noted that a logo was created for the centennial by Chrissie Ells.  She also asked the Board to have photos taken of the Town Board together, and also photos of the Town’s employees.  She is looking for advertisers to help defray the cost of publishing the book.  Councilman Gier moved to accept the report as presented, and was seconded by Councilman Clark.   5 ayes, 0 nays. MOTION CARRIED.

SUPERVISOR’S FINANCIAL REPORT: Councilman Gier moved and was seconded by Councilman Clark to accept the Supervisor’s January 2014 Financial Report as presented.   5 ayes, 0 nays. MOTION CARRIED. 

BUDGET MODS: None were presented

TOWN CLERK’S FINANCIAL REPORT: Councilman Kaczmarek moved to accept the Town Clerk’s January 2014 Financial Report as presented by the Town Clerk, and was seconded by Councilman DeCarlo.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED. 

COURT CLERK’S JANUARY 2014 FINANCIAL REPORTS FOR JUSTICES CROUSE & BORNGRABER REGULAR AND BAIL ACCOUNTS: Councilman Gier moved to accept both reports for JANUARY 2014 Financial Reports for the Bail and Regular account.  Councilman DeCarlo seconded the motion.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.

Code Enforcement Officer Gary Brecker had not arrived at the meeting, his report will be delayed until further in the meeting.

DOG CONTROL OFFICER’S FEBRUARY 2014 REPORT:  Dog Control Officer Daniel’s read the February Dog Report.  Councilman Gier motioned to approve the report as presented, Councilman Clark seconded the motion.  5 ayes, 0 nays. MOTION CARRIED.

POLICE REPORT FEBRUARY 2014: The February 2014 police report was read by Councilman Kaczmarek.  Councilman Gier moved to accept the February Police report, and was seconded by Supervisor Pero.  5 ayes, 0 nays. MOTION CARRIED.

TOWN CLERK MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORT FOR FEBRUARY 2014: The Town Clerk’s monthly activity report for February 2014 was read by Clerk Daniel. Councilman Gier moved to accept the report as read, and was seconded by Councilman Kaczmarek.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.  

PLANNING BOARD REPORT:  Supervisor Pero read a letter from Planning Board Chairman Ostrowski.  In summary, the Chairman recommended the Town review the Master Plan.  Supervisor Pero noted that the Town had obtained a grant for that project in the past.  He will look into another grant to update it.   The Planning Board Report, read by Secretary Ostrowski, also requested a few changes to the Building Permit application now being used by the Town.  The Planning Board report suggested the following:

1. At the box labeled “Hereby Make Application for Permission to”, add an asterisk (*) after the word DEMOLISH. (i.e. DEMOLISH*)

2. At the end of the line labeled “Estimated Cost of Structure”, insert the line “ *date of original structure (if demolition). 

The Town Board discussed the Planning Boards reason behind the changes requested.  The change would allow the Town to establish the historical value of the structure being demolished.  Supervisor Pero motioned to approve the Building Permit changes, and was seconded by Councilman DeCarlo.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.

The Board then discussed an application reviewed by the Planning Board and mentioned in the Planning Board report. Councilman Clark asked what sort of building permit was required for the Lime dryer application. Joseph Ostrowski noted that he received no formal application for the Lime dryer.  The applicant attended their meeting and described the project. No decision could be made because no formal application was received.

Code Officer Brecker explained that he is awaiting the application. He also stated that the equipment that does the lime drying evaporates the moisture into the atmosphere and there will be no run off into the ground water. Supervisor Pero asked Attorney Trask if anything prevented the Town Board from approving the application at this meeting. Attorney Trask informed the Board that since the project was described by the CEO as possibly requiring a Special Use permit, the Planning Board must submit their recommendations to the Town Board first. However, since the Planning Board was unable to provide a report on their recommendations because no formal application was presented to them, the Town Board also has no basis to approve the application at this time. Trask continued that once the Code Enforcement Officer receives a formal application for the project, he will have first right to determine if a permit is required. If the CEO determines that no permit is required, then no permit is required.

Councilman Clark then motioned to approve the Planning Board report as read, and was seconded by Councilman Gier.   5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.

Zoning Board Report:  No meeting held

Recreation Director Report: None presented.

Parks Commissioner report: None presented

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORTS:  Councilman Gier presented the Board with the Brant Volunteer Fire Companies 2013 expense report.  He stated he hadn’t received reports from Farnham or North Collins. 

Councilman Clark motioned to approve the Fire Report as presented, and was seconded by Councilman DeCarlo.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER’S REPORT: CEO Gary Brecker asked the Town Board to review the law which prohibits public utility companies from using private property to store their items and as a staging area on a temporary basis. He wanted clarification from the Board regarding a recently issued stop work order to National Fuel Gas. However, he explained that our Town code does not allow what they were requesting, which was to set up a temporary utility storage yard/ staging area. The National Fuel Supply Corporation attorney Luke Anderson spoke to the Board and refuted the CEO’s interpretation that they should not be identified as a “utility company” since they are the Supply company. Also, since this project would be temporary (approx. 2 months), they don’t consider this a storage area and feel that the code shouldn’t include them. The staging area (located on Dale John’s property) will allow them to place an R32 transmission line, not a utility line. Attorney Trask spoke that the Town’s Code Enforcement Officer’s interpretation of the code was reasonable. He then stated that the Town could enact a Local Law to allow the CEO to permit temporary storage areas for work being conducted by utility companies. Attorney Trask had earlier drafted a proposed local law that the Town could enact to allow the Code Officer to permit temporary utility staging areas. He read from the law he had drafted:

Proposed Local Law No. 1 of the year 2014
Town of Brant, County of Erie

A local law amending Section 161-39.C of the Town of Brant Zoning Code
to allow the Code Enforcement Officer to issue temporary permits for Public Utility service or storage yards.

Section 1.  Legislative intent

It is the intent of this local law to allow the Town of Brant Code Enforcement Officer to issue special permits allowing public utilities to establish temporary storage or service yards in any district in the Town of Brant.

Section 2.  Amendment to Town of Brant Zoning Code Section 161-39.C

Section 161-39.C of the Town of Brant Zoning Code is hereby amended by adding thereto a new paragraph following (4) which reads as follows:

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Town Board hereby delegates to the Code Enforcement Officer authority to issue temporary special permits for service or storage yards required by one or more public utilities for temporary work projects in the vicinity of the proposed service or storage yard site.  For purposes of this section, a “temporary work project” shall mean a project which will not exceed six (6) months duration.  The Code Enforcement Officer is authorized to set reasonable conditions for such permits to mitigate possible impacts on neighboring properties and will follow the standards set forth above for public utilities, but may waive the requirements for fences and the required buffer strip when such requirements are determined by the CEO as not reasonable or necessary given the temporary character of the service or storage yard and the proximity of the yard to neighboring uses. 

Section 3.  Severability

If a court determines that any clause, sentence, paragraph, subdivision, or part of this local law or the application thereof to any person, firm or corporation, or circumstance is invalid or unconstitutional, the court’s order or judgment shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder of this local law, but shall be confined in its operation to the clause, sentence, paragraph, subdivision, or part of this local law or in its application to the person, individual, firm or corporation or circumstance, directly involved in the controversy in which such judgment or order shall be rendered.

Section 4.  Effective date

This local law shall take effect immediately upon adoption by the Brant Town Board.

He then advised the Board to adopt the following resolution calling for a public hearing on the above proposed law:

RESOLUTION #031114-01 OF THE BRANT TOWN BOARD
(3/11/2014)

RESOLVED, that a public hearing be held on April 8, 2014 at 8:00 pm for the purpose of receiving public comment on proposed Local Law No. 1-2014 which would establish new regulations allowing the Code Enforcement Officer to issue temporary special permits for temporary public utility service and storage yards in the Town of Brant, and it is further

RESOLVED, that the proposed local law be referred to the Brant Planning Board for review and report, as required by the Brant Zoning Code, and it is further

RESOLVED, that the Town Board does hereby declare itself Lead Agency under SEQR and authorizes Supervisor Leonard Pero to sign the short form Environmental Assessment Form (EAF) and further authorizes issuance of a ZR-1 (zoning referral) to the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning and notices to the Clerks of each contiguous municipality and to the State Regional Park Commission in connection with the said public hearing on the proposed local law.

Supervisor Pero motioned to adopt the resolution #031114-01 above, and was seconded by Councilman DeCarlo.  A roll call vote was taken: Supervisor Pero-aye, Councilman DeCarlo-aye, Councilman Kaczmarek-aye, Councilman Clark-abstain, Councilman Gier-aye.  5 ayes, 0 nays, 1 abstain.  MOTION CARRIED.

Supervisor Pero expressed concern that the project will be delayed while the Town adopts the amended law.  Attorney Trask responded that CEO Brecker has the right to withhold enforcement while the law is being adopted.  Attorney Luke Anderson expressed a willingness to cooperate with the Town.

Councilman Clark explained that he abstained because of the issue with National Grid seeking to lease space on his brother’s property for the same reason. He asked if this law would apply to them too. CEO Brecker stated that they would fall under the law also. However, he added that they would also be subject to approval from other agencies such as the D.E.C. and since Milestrip Rd is a County Road with Bridge weight limits, Ag & Markets, etc.  Councilman Gier noted that the difference between National Fuel and National Grid is that National Fuel is going to be on their right of way.  The Grid is not. CEO Brecker noted that the Grid wants to put in a Transmission line to Dunkirk and it would pass through Brant. He added that he couldn’t see why it couldn’t be passed.

Councilman Gier motioned to approve the CEO report as presented, and was seconded by Councilman DeCarlo.  5 ayes, 0 nays.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SENIOR’S REPORT FOR MARCH 2014: No report received from the Senior’s.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF DIGNITARIES OR OFFICIALS: None present

OLD BUSINESS

GUGINO COMMITTEE:  Supervisor Pero reminded those in attendance about the Peter F. Gugino Memorial Courtroom dedication set for March 22 at 6:00 PM. He then noted problems with purchasing chairs and tables. The prices were very high. He then asked the Board to consider renting the tables and chairs from Blidy’s. The cost was estimated at $135.50 for 80 chairs $6.75 each for tables. The price included delivery and set up and removal.

Supervisor Pero motion to approve the rental and was seconded by Councilman Clark.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.

UPDATE ON THE SALE OF THE OLD TOWN HALL: Supervisor Pero addressed an issue with the items remaining in the Old Town Hall garage.  He noted that the new owner would like assurance that anyone entering the property to pick up these items be covered by Town Insurance to protect new owner from liability.  Attorney Trask stated that an inventory list must be drafted so the Town may adopt a resolution naming the items as surplus prior to scrapping the items.  Supervisor Pero motioned to approve insurance coverage of Town employees entering the property, with the agreement to get owner’s permission prior to entering the property, with him present.  Councilman DeCarlo seconded the motion.  A roll call vote was taken: Supervisor Pero-aye, Councilman DeCarlo-aye, Councilman Kaczmarek-aye, Councilman Clark-aye, Councilman Gier-aye.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.

EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK: At the February Board meeting, all Board members were given a draft copy of the Employee Handbook.  All were asked to review it and make notes of suggestions.  Supervisor Pero asked if anyone had anything to suggest for the Handbook.  No one had suggestions.  He then asked for a motion to adopt the Handbook as a work in progress.  Attorney Trask corrected the Board by saying that the Handbook should be adopted when it was in its complete.  No vote was taken.  The Board will hold a Workshop on Monday March 31st at 6:30 PM to work on the Handbook.

NEW BUSINESS:  

CRA ENGINEERING CONTRACT:  Supervisor Pero asked the Board to consider contracting with CRA for engineering services to allow Supervisor Pero to use their services to research a water project for the Town.  Contracting with CRA would cover work on a SEQR review, site plan, etc.   He was quoted $3,000. Per year which would provide 3-4 hours per month.  He added that since this year’s contract would start in March, the total would be $2,500.00 for 2014.  Attorney Trask warned Supervisor Pero against going over on the 3-4 hour limit per month because they will charge the Town for each hour above that amount.  He also suggested allowing only one person from the Board as the main contact person to limit overages on the time.  Trask added that the Town should be named as Lead Agency for the project.  Councilman Kaczmarek motioned to authorize Supervisor Pero to sign a standard agreement for professional services with CRA.  Councilman Clark seconded the motion.  A roll call vote was taken: Councilman Kaczmarek-aye, Councilman Clark-aye, Councilman Gier-aye, Councilman DeCarlo-aye, Supervisor Pero-aye.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.

APPROVAL TO HIRE SAMUEL SICURELLA, Jr. AS FULL TIME HIGHWAY LABORER:  Supervisor Pero spoke to the Board about a request from Highway Superintendent Joseph Giambrone.  He recommends the hiring of Samuel Sicurella, Jr. to fill in for the newly retired Bill Wesp.  Councilman Gier recapped the recommendations of the Superintendent.  Gier recapped fifteen dollars per hour for a six month probationary period, with benefits to come after the six month probation.  Supervisor Pero noted that the Handbook will be finished by then, so that Sicurella will know what his benefits will be.  Attorney Trask responded that if the Board hires him tonight, he will be entitled to the benefits that are in place now.   Discussion regarding part-time vs. full time issues took place.  Supervisor Pero motioned to table the appointment and to go into executive session after the meeting.

VILLAGE OF FARNHAM WATER TOWER: Supervisor Pero addressed repairs that are being done to the Water Tower in Farnham.  According to the contract with the Village, the Town pays one half of any repair expenses.  The repair is expected to be approximately $3,425.00.  No action needs to be taken tonight.  The Town will await the bill.

PETER F. GUGINO PROCLAMATION – DEDICATING COURT ROOM IN HIS NAME:

Supervisor Pero read a proclamation dedicating the Brant Justice Courtroom after the late Peter F. Gugino. The following will be presented during the March 22nd Courtroom dedication:

WHEREAS, Peter F. Gugino was a lifelong resident and successful farmer who was able to find the time to serve on countless committees and organizations.

WHEREAS, The Brant Town Board recognizes Peter F. Gugino for his dedication and compassion for the Town of Brant and his many years of service as Town Justice.

WHEREAS, Peter Gugino served in this capacity after being appointed in 1969 for 4 months after the Death of then Justice Clarence Beuzenburg. Peter was elected and served our community from 1970-1977, appointed 1979 and won election 2002 until his untimely death on August 10, 2013.

WHEREAS, for 22 years Peter dedicated his life to our community and was a tireless servant for the people of the Town of Brant. He served his community with his dedication and compassion for fairness and honesty.

WHEREAS , On August 10, 2013 Peter F. Gugino died while serving his position as town justice and is sadly missed.
Furthermore, Peter was responsible for designing this court room and with great honor and humility the Brant Town Board will forever be thankful for his service.

THEREFORE, the Brant Town Board proclaims the dedication and naming of this court room for all to remember his unselfish time spent for our community

SO BE IT PROCLAIMED, By order of the Brant Town Board
That on Saturday March 22, 2014 that this court room shall forever be called the PETER F. GUGINO Memorial Court Room in his honor for his undying dedication to us.

And also Proclaimed and be recognized in the Town of Brant as:
PETER F. GUGINO DAY in the Town of Brant.  

All town residents will honor this day for his dedication to our community!

Supervisor Pero motioned to approve the proclamation, and was seconded by the entire Board.  A roll call vote was taken: Supervisor Pero-aye, Councilman Kaczmarek-aye, Councilman Clark-aye, Councilman Gier-aye, Councilman DeCarlo-aye.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PROCLAMATION FOR ACHIEVEMENT HONORING KEVIN R. CAFFERY: Supervisor Pero read from a proclamation honoring Kevin R. Caffery for his 45 years of service with the Erie County Sheriffs:

WHEREAS, The Brant Town Board recognizes a special individual that has helped the residents of our town over the past 45 years, Captain Kevin R. Caffery who through his skills has brought about a great sense of security and safety to our entire community.  

WHEREAS, On January 14, 1969 Kevin Caffery Joined the Erie County Sheriff department as a Holding Center Officer and  Guard and on February 22, 2014 retired as Permanent Captain of Erie County Sheriff Aviation and Safety fleet.   

WHEREAS, Through his work ethics and determination he honed very special skills to promote his cause to be promoted through the ranks of detective, assistant chief of detectives, criminal investigation and Narcotics investigator.

WHEREAS, The most satisfying promotion was that of Permanent Captain of Aviation and through his dedication he risked his life to save countless others through rescues and Mercy flights in incumbent weather to save many of our residents lives in time of need.  

WHEREAS, The Town Board and the citizens of the Town of Brant thank you for your service for the past 45 years and for serving our community with dignity and dedication for our well being.

Furthermore, The local communities, Town Board and residents of the Town of Brant do applaud you for all of your achievements and Forever Thank You for all of your devoted years of service that you have unselfishly given to honor our communities.

THEREFORE, SO BE IT PROCLAIMED, By order of the Brant Town Board that on Saturday April 12, 2014 that it be recognized in the Town of Brant as:    KEVIN R. CAFFERY DAY. 

All town residents will honor this day for your dedication to our community!

Supervisor Pero motioned to approve the proclamation for Kevin R. Caffery, and was seconded by the entire Board.  A roll call vote was taken:
Supervisor Pero-aye, Councilman Kaczmarek-aye, Councilman Clark-aye, Councilman Gier-aye, Councilman DeCarlo-aye.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

INVENTORY DECLARED SURPLUS: Supervisor Pero motioned to declare the Printer #7033 currently at the Highway Garage as surplus, and was seconded by Councilman DeCarlo.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.

ASSESSOR REQUESTS APPROVAL TO PURCHASE CAMERA: The Assessor’s office requests the purchase of a 35mm digital camera at a cost of $280.00.  Supervisor Pero made the motion and was seconded by Councilman Gier.  A roll call vote was taken: Supervisor Pero-aye, Councilman Gier-aye, Councilman Kaczmarek-aye, Councilman Clark-aye, Councilman DeCarlo-abstain.  4 ayes, 0 nays, 1 abstain.  MOTION CARRIED.

PANIC BUTTONS PER COMP AUDIT RECOMMENDATIONS: Supervisor Pero reminded the Board that the Town must comply with the recent comp audit recommendations to install additional panic buttons in the Court Clerk’s office, and the Supervisor’s office. A total of three buttons will be installed.  The price quoted by DFT is $95.00 service call plus $120.00 for the installment of each button. Councilman Gier questioned the amount of the monthly fee. Clerk will look into. [CLERK’S NOTE: NO ADDT’L COST]

Supervisor Pero motioned to approve the install, and was seconded by Councilman Clark.  A roll call vote was taken: Supervisor Pero-aye, Councilman Clark-aye, Councilman Kaczmarek-aye, Councilman Gier-aye, Councilman DeCarlo-aye.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.

MISCELLANEOUS:

WATER SUPERVISOR ON VACATION IN FARNHAM:  Supervisor Pero noted that the Mayor of Farnham has brought it to his attention that the Water Supervisor of Farnham will be on vacation for the last week of March.  He has been assured that they will have a certified person in charge during his absence.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:  

BRANTFEST COMMITTEE: Scheduled to have a meeting on April 7th, at 7:00 PM.

TOWN BOARD REPORTS: 

Councilman Gier: Councilman Gier attended the February Planning Board meeting.  Also visited the Courts to see how things are running.  It was reported to him that things are running smoothly.  

Councilman Kaczmarek: Tumbling program is at full capacity.  Twenty kids on Tuesday and about thirty on Wednesdays.

Councilman Clark: He wanted to remind the Board that they had not voted on the pay rate and terms requested by the Chief of Police during the last Board meeting. Supervisor Pero replied that he is ok with the rate and they took care of his insurance increase.  There is nothing to vote on.

Councilman DeCarlo: Nothing to report.

Supervisor Pero:
 
TIME WARNER: Spoke with Time Warner.  Installation of Cable on Mileblock should start this spring and finish by summer.  He also added that the rep stated there are a few homes on the other side of Milestrip.  He wants the addresses since they may continue to that location on Mileblock.

LAKE ERIE WATER PROTECTION COMMITTEE:  Supervisor Pero stated that he is Chairman of the Lake Erie Water Protection Alliance Committee.  The committee met in Gowanda.  They are looking into seeking Federal funding to protect and clean up Lake Erie from Sewage, run off, etc.  They asked for $761,000.  They were approved for a $507,830 grant for the Water shed management plan.  Niagara River keepers are also part of this.

HAZMAN:  Supervisor Pero had a meeting with Hazman, a Company that picks up old paints, pharmaceuticals, and other hazardous waste.  It does cost money.  Looking to join forces with other Towns to share the expense.

BRIDGE CLOSINGS: He will need to speak with the Fire Departments, ambulance companies,  Angola Control, etc. that an upcoming road construction project will affect the thruway bridge on Route 438. The project will begin Sept. 1, 2014 and the bridge will close on September 15 through March 6, 2015.  The bridge will be a complete replacement.  There will be meetings in advance.
Then on March 16, 2015, the Milestrip Road Thruway Bridge will be shut down until 11/9/15.  The project will then go on a winter shut down on November 24, 2015 and will restart on March 14, 2016.  This project will be completed by April 29, 2016.  

EASTER EGG HUNT:  Set for Palm Sunday, April 13, 2014.  [CLERK’S NOTE: CANCELLED)

SOLAR PANELS FOR TOWN HALL: Supervisor attended a recent County meeting where Senator Grissanti was speaking.  The Senator acknowledged and mentioned the Grant that the Town will receive for the Solar Panels this summer.

RECOGNIZED PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR: Frank Broughton of Brant North Collins Rd asked if the Ambulance for the North Collins end of Town has been taken care of. The reply was that it was. Angola Control was notified as well as Farnham.

Karl Simmeth, representative of Assemblyman DiPietro’s office, announced that Mr. DiPietro is working on 3 bills to stop welfare abuse. He gave the Town Clerk some pamphlets to display in the office. He then noted the Historian’s report mentioned the need for donations to help with the cost of printing this year’s centennial book. He will look into getting the Assemblyman to donate towards the cost. He then requested an application from the Historian. Councilman Gier asked if there was any funding available for Plate Readers. Mr. Simmeth will look into it.

CORRESPONDENCE: 

Supervisor Pero read the following correspondence:

• Thank you letter from the Boys and Girls Club for the Town’s recent donation.
• Letter from Cathy Andolora, ongoing Time Warner changes
• Time Warner letter to inform of an upcoming company merger (with Comcast)
• Letter from Senator Grissanti’s office, subject: securing the future of  family farming

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Supervisor Pero read the following Abstract:

Abstract 3 of 2014

*Prepaid and unpaid as of March 11, 2014
Gen Fund Town wide Vouchers pd : 77-86, unpd#87-132 Totaling: $76,038.62
Gen Fund – Part Town Voucher, pd: 7-8, unpd #9-10  Totaling: $8,244.20
Highway T.W. Vouchers pd: #13-15, unpd#16-31, Totaling: $34,877.45
Highway P.T. Vouchers, pd: 1-2 (Voucher #3 deleted due to error) Total $12,254.14
Fire Protection: Vouchers: None
Street lighting: Voucher  pd, #2:   $3,685.33
Lotus Bay Sewer Dist 1: Vouchers: None
Brant Farnham Sewer Dist: None
Brant Water Dist 1: Voucher #1: Totaling $30.00
Special Grant Fund: unpd: None, Totaling:
Capital Projects: Vouchers: None

General Town Wide Payroll 1/26/14 - 2/22/14 Totaling: $38,481.98
General Part Town Payroll 1/26/14 - 2/22/14 Totaling: $731.34
Highway Payroll TW 1/26/14 - 2/22/14 Totaling: $12,342.93
Highway Payroll PT 1/26/14 - 2/22/14 Totaling: none

REQUEST: Providing Notary Service to our residents is very important.  The Town Board is asked to approve the reimbursement of employees that provide such service to Town residents at no charge.  Currently submitted was a voucher in the amount of $60.00 from Assessor Clerk Janet Bowman.  Please approve payment of this voucher for the next abstract (#4).

Councilman Gier motioned to approve the abstract as read, and was seconded by Councilman DeCarlo.  A roll call vote was taken:  Councilman Gier-aye, Councilman DeCarlo-aye, Councilman Kaczmarek-aye, Councilman Clark-aye, Supervisor Pero-aye.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.

At 8:50 PM, Supervisor Pero asked for a moment of silence in memory of three residents who recently passed away, Paul Chiavetta, John Herc, and Ken Ditcher.  A moment of silence was observed.  

At 8:55 PM, Councilman Gier motioned to enter executive session to discuss an employee contract.  He was seconded by Supervisor Pero.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  MOTION CARRIED.   

At 9:20 PM, Councilman Gier motioned to close the executive session and adjourn the meeting.  His motion was seconded by Councilman Kaczmarek.  5 ayes, 0 nays.  Meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted by,

Barbara Daniel
Brant Town Clerk