The Peru Gazette

By John T. Ryan

In General News the Board: 

Reversed its decision to award an $8,000 bid for material and installation of a roof at the Court House to New Image Roofing (Chad Rivers). The Board conditionally awarded the bid to Ron Hoy Construction at a price of $11,400.  Hoy will get the bid if he can fit the work into his schedule. No reason was stated for New Image not being able to perform the work. 

Responded to a question from John Ryan of the Peru Gazette regarding the summer-long algae bloom at the Gazebo/Mill pond.  Water Superintendent Courtney Tetrault said the pond’s aerator was out of order for several weeks worsening algae conditions. He said algae is present every year. Ryan responded that since the pond is in the center of the community its care might be a higher priority item. 

Referred Peru Farm Center Manager Jordan Keleher to the Fire Department when Keleher asked the Board’s advice on conducting a tractor parade in conjunction with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. He said several of of his customers have expressed interest in participating.  

Tabled a resolution to approve a contractor’s quotation for interior restoration work at the Lyons Road Schoolhouse. Counselor Jim Langley asked that the matter be tabled. When questioned by the Peru Gazette he cited deed issues.

Discussed taking action to clarify the property deeds for the dog park and Heyworth-Mason Park.  Heyworth-Mason Park has several flood plain restrictions such as not adding additional structures. The dog park parcel does not have such restrictions. 

Learned from Counselor Jim Langley that the historic stone building at Heyworth-Mason Park is not subject to flood plain use restrictions. Over the course of the past several years the building has been mentioned as a museum site and other uses. Any use above the first floor would have to include an elevator to satisfy handicapped access requirements. 

In Zoning/Plannig Board News the Board: 

Accepted the resignations of Steve LaBounty and Tom Fusco from the Zoning Board of Appeals. Appointed Terry Aubin Jr to the Zoning Board of Appeals to fill Steve LaBounty’s term ending December 31, 2020.  Even with Aubin’s appointment, the five-person Board will be short one member.  There is a critical need for residents to step forward to serve on both the Zoning and Planning Boards. 

In Water/Sewer/Parks News the Board: 

Approved the purchase of clarifying equipment for the waste water treatment plant in the amount of $15,387.  

Scheduled a Monday, October 21st workshop regarding the sewer system upgrade project.

Scheduled November 14th at 6:30 p.m. for a pubic hearing on a proposed Valcour Water District rate increase. Rates would increase $10 per quarter for each of the system’s 36 or 37 users. 

Reacted positively when Water/Sewer Superintendent Courtney Tetrault asked the Board for its approval to establish a Water Department Facebook page. Tetreault would use the page for boil water orders, customer notifications and other department news.