The Peru Gazette

By John T Ryan

Peru –  The November 10 Peru Town Board Meeting began with a moment of silence to honor Town Justice James Kirby, who passed away on October 29 at age 68.  Town Supervisor Craig Randall stated, “Jim served the Town of Peru faithfully for what was almost four full terms of office, almost 16 years. I want to take a moment of silence and wish his family the best that anyone could have under those circumstances. Just a moment of silence, please.”

Town employees will have a new health plan in 2026 (13 current employees participate). Supervisor Randall explained that the premiums for the current MVP plan would increase significantly (17% or more depending on the plan). He said Northern Insuring is offering an Excellus plan that some nearby towns like. Employee premiums are considerably lower than the current plan, and there are no deductibles or co-pays. The town will fund a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) of $8,500 for single coverage and $17,000 for family coverage. HRA funds not spent in one year will roll over to the following year, potentially reducing the town’s future HRA contribution. The town also pays 80% of the premium costs. The town budgeted $284,000 for health insurance for current and retired employees.

The Board approved Judy Akey’s resignation as Deputy Town Clerk/Tax Collector offered on November 6, 2025 and effective December 22, 2025.  Mrs. Akey will continue in the bookkeeper position. Outgoing Town Clerk/Tax Collector Dianne Miller said Akey’s resignation was a “shocker” and that she did not learn of Judy Akey’s plans until the agenda was published. She said, ‘I told her I respect where she’s coming from. She and I made a great team. She can bow out. I can bow out. I’ll be on my own for nine days. I think I can handle it. It will all work out and Christine will be able to pick her own deputy after the organizational meeting….” (33:15 to 35:30 minute mark of the Peru Gazette meeting video.)

Town Justice Scott Thurber explained that the town court would like to apply for a Justice Court Assistance Program (JCAP) grant for up to $5,000. The grant would fund safety and security equipment during the court’s 1st Tuesday sessions or whenever there’s potential for unruly behavior that the court has experienced. Thurber said, “It makes the environment better for everybody.” The board authorized the town court to apply for the grant. 

Following the meeting, Thurber told the Gazette that the device would be similar to those used at airports and county courtrooms. If an alarm sounds, a security officer would perform a wand scan of the individual in question. Thurber said he believes hiring a local security firm will be on the town board’s agenda at its next meeting.

Justice Thurber also reported that on October 22, the NYS Office of Court Administration recognized Peru’s Chief Court Clerk, Holly Stone, for 25 years of service.  Thurber said, “That’s a huge milestone. She’s irreplaceable. She’s great! She’s very knowledgeable. She helps me, the entire staff, and the public.”

At Supervisor Randall’s request, the Board authorized hiring accountants Telling and Hillman, PC, for a complete audit of town finances for the period ending 12/31/25. The cost will be $20,000. Randall told the Gazette that it’s been many years since the town underwent a complete audit and that this is the appropriate time.

The Board also approved: 

The relevy of unpaid October water and sewer bills totaling $59,611.40 to the respective property owners’ tax bills.

Work change orders at the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Project, requested by Triangle Electric for $6,537 and Murnane Building Supply for $3,686.

WWTP contract payments to Danforth Construction for $59,475 (Payment #4), Murnane Building for $1,068,045.74 (Payment #4), and K & L Plumbing $62,74.59 (Payment #2).

A two-year Sand & Ice agreement with Clinton County. $151,532 in 2026 and $156,079 in 2027.  Peru plows and treats nearly 24 miles of county highways.

The highway department’s  installing three-way stop signs at the Blake Road – Fox Farm Road Intersection.  Loyal Henry informed the Board of the intersection’s visibility issues at the October 29 meeting.

Click here to view the meeting video on YouTube.