Source: Questions Raised Over Adirondack Conservation Easements – – The Adirondack Almanack

The Clinton County Coalition to Prevent Suicide will kick off this year’s mental health awareness events with “Battling Stigma” in the Battle of Plattsburgh Parade on September 8^th at 1PM on Cumberland Ave.  Line up for the parade begins at noon.  Join us with signs of hope and encouragement as we walk with our giant “Semicolon Man Float.”  Research shows that stigma is the number 1 reason why those needing treatment do not seek it.

September 10^th is World Suicide Prevention Day.  To recognize the day, employees of CVPH will be sponsoring a bake sale outside of the cafeteria from 10:30AM to 1:30PM all proceeds will be used towards suicide prevention efforts. The Clinton County Coalition to Prevent Suicide joins employees of CVPH at 3:30PM at the Circle of Healing and Hope for a Moments of Reflection Ceremony, featuring a story of hope from a suicide loss survivor.  The event is open to the community.

On October 9^th, 2018  from 8AM-5PM at Clinton Community College The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Champlain Valley will be hosting “Stand up 2 Stigma” Conference.  The conference is an opportunity for peers, families, providers and other interested community members to come together to learn strategies to help combat stigma.  Special Speakers include: David Granirer, founder of Stand Up For Mental Health (www.standupformentalhealth.com), The NYS Office of Mental Health, NYS Mental Hygiene Legal Services, and many more.  The conference is free and open to the community.  Registration is required and can be done by going to nami-cv.org (and clicking the conference tab).

ABOUT
The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Champlain Valley is a local non-profit organization that provides free support, education and advocacy services to all those effected by mental illness.

By John T. Ryan 

A new era in local aviation began at 2:25 PM on Wednesday, August 22, 2018 when Flight 5006 touched down at Plattsburgh International Airport. United Express operated by SkyWest Airlines replaces PennAir that provided service to and from Boston for the past six years. Ironically, the first United Express aircraft arriving in Plattsburgh was a Canadair model CJR 200. Most CJR 200s were manufactured in Plattsburgh’s primary market – Montreal, PQ, Canada. 

United Airlines Regional Sales Manager Bare Angleos was present to welcome the first flight. He said, “United is offering our customers in the Plattsburgh area more choice in their travels. A short flight from Plattsburgh to our Washington Dulles hub will not only give direct access to our nation’s capital, but more than 70 domestic and nearly 40 international destinations in Asia, Europe and Latin America.”  Flight time is 1 hour, 40 minutes to 1 hour 52 minutes. Drive time to Washington D.C. is 9 to 10 hours assuming no delays. 

United Express is offering two daily weekday departures and arrivals. Monday through Friday flights depart Plattsburgh at 9:30 a.m. and 3:38 p.m. and arrive at Dulles at 11:22 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.  On Saturday and Sunday one flight daily departs Plattsburgh at 9:30 a.m. 

Monday through Friday flights depart Dulles at 1 p.m. and 6:05 p.m. arriving in Plattsburgh at 2:40 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. On Saturday and Sundays flights depart Dulles at 6:05 p.m. arriving in Plattsburgh at 7:45 p.m. 

Beverly Thwaits of Clintonville boarded the first flight. She and a friend were connecting to a flight to California at Dulles. She commented, “It’s great to have United Express here. I think the whole airport being here is just great.” Thwaits and her friend will return to Plattsburgh in six days. 

Plattsburgh native and SUNY Plattsburgh student Aidan Vogel concurred with Thwaits. He was on his way to visit a friend in Washington, D.C. Shelly Wood of Saranac Lake, accompanied by her daughter Emma was on her way to visit her son Ethan, a sophomore at the University of Maryland in College Park. She commented, “This is much better than flying out of Albany. It’s an hour closer to Saranac Lake.” Wood expects Ethan will fly to Plattsburgh during school breaks rather than flying into Albany. She paid $396 for the total one-way fare for herself and Emma. 

Assemblyman Billy Jones, Garry Douglas, Bare Angleous of United Airlines, Harry McManus, Bobby Hall

North Country Chamber of Commerce President Garry Douglas, Clinton County Legislature Chairman Harry McManus, Airport Chairman Bobby Hall and New York State Assemblyman Billy Jones were the main speakers at the welcoming ceremony. Many other county legislators and local officials were also present. 

In his remarks Garry Douglas said he expects both Canadian and regional travelers to fly in and out of Plattsburgh. He predicted business travelers, Lake Placid visitors, people traveling to and from SUNY Plattsburgh, Clarkson University and St. Lawrence University will welcome the service.

In the final analysis United Express’s success may depend on its acceptance by Canadian travelers. The vast majority of the airport’s current customers reside in Canada utilizing the low cost Penn Air, Spirit and Allegiant service and the airport’s very low parking fees. Douglas is confident that they’ll utilize United Express. He sees Plattsburgh as the secondary airport that Montreal doesn’t have. 

By John T. Ryan

Peru – Natural gas lines were installed in most of the Peru hamlet several years ago. For some unknown reason they were not installed along a few streets. Thankfully, that era is coming to an end. Over the past few weeks NYSEG has installed gas lines on McIntosh Drive, Birchwood Avenue and McDonald Place. Gas is currently available on those streets. This week lines were installed along Maiden Lane and Locust Drive. Next week work will take place on a small portion of Maiden Lane and Holden Avenue. In ten to fourteen days the contractor will begin installation of 8,000+ feet of gas lines along the Laphams Mills Road.

AUGUST 27, 2018 @ 7:00 PM

1. Call Meeting To Order

2. Pledge of Allegiance

3. Roll Call

4. MOTION:  Approval of Minutes for the August 13, 2018 Regular Board Meeting.

5. Community Input

6. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION:  Tobacco Free Town Properties & Parks. 

7. DISCUSSION:  Vac Truck Repairs.                                    

8. DISCUSSION:  Youth Soccer Wall

9. DISCUSSION:  Other Business.

10. DISCUSSION:  Public Comments on Agenda Items Only.

11. DISCUSSION/RESOLUTION:  Approve/Pay Bills.

12. DISCUSSION:  LED Streetlight Presentation

MOTION:     Adjourn

Source: Plattsburgh International Airport upgrades near completion – Sun Community News & Printing

Local officials gathered at Plattsburgh International Airport today to celebrate the opening of daily air service between Plattsburgh and Dulles International Airport in Metropolitan Washington, D.C.

Source: Eye on the Arts – Sun Community News & Printing

Source: Ausable moves toward civic center bond vote – Sun Community News & Printing

Plattsburgh – A new era in the history of Plattsburgh International Airport occurred at 2:25 PM today when the first SkyWest/United Express flight touched down. The Peru Gazette will post a story ASAP, but here are a few photos of the historic arrival of the Bombardier 50-passenger jet aircraft.

AGENDA REVISED 8/24/18 – Planning Board, WEDNESDAY, September 12, 2018 @ 7:00 PM

TOWN OF PERU

1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. APPROVAL of July 11, 2018 minutes.
5. OPEN FLOOR to public hearing
6. APPLICATIONS:

1. 3-Lot Major Subdivision with SEQR: P-2018-018 Nathan Wilson

3-Lot Major Subdivision 

280.-1-30.1

Peru, NY 12972

2.  Site Plan Review with SEQR: P-2018-020 Olof Franzon

Site Plan Review – Creation of an accessory apartment in the existing single family dwelling.

16 Coastland Dr.

Plattsburgh, NY 12901

3.  2-Lot Minor Subdivision with SEQR: P-2018-021 Leeward Lamoy

2-Lot Minor Subdivision

561 Fuller Rd.

Peru, NY 12972

4.  2-Lot Minor Subdivision with SEQR: P-2018-022 Steven & Jessica Gainer

2-Lot Minor Subdivision

2645 Rt. 22

Peru, NY 12972

7.  ANY FURTHER BUSINESS: David Barber -Major Preliminary Plan for Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness

8. CEO REPORT:

9. ADJOURNMENT

Peru, NY 12972

4.  2-Lot Subdivision with SEQR: P-2018-022 Steven & Jessica Gainer

2-Lot Subdivision

2645 Rt. 22

Peru, NY 12972

7.  ANY FURTHER BUSINESS: David Barber -Major Preliminary Plan for Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness

8. CEO REPORT:

9. ADJOURNMENT

Source: Underground Railroad tour highlights hidden history – Sun Community News & Printing

Source: School boards ready for merger discussion – Sun Community News & Printing

Source: Podcast boom maps Plattsburgh’s multitudes – Sun Community News & Printing

Source: 2 coaches’ lasting tribute for late student | Local News | pressrepublican.com

JULY 2018 DEPT. REPORTS

By John T. Ryan 

• Main Street Enhancement Project to Move Forward  
• $3.6 Million Loan Application to Be Filed for Sewer System Upgrade 
• Cameras to be Installed at Laphams Mills Park 
• 25 Ton Equipment Trailer Purchase Approved 
• Motor Equipment Operator Hired
• Hydrogeologic Work to Begin 

Peru’s Main Street Enhancement project has been reduced in scope but it is going to take place.  At its Monday, August 13, 2018 meeting the Peru Town Board accepted a $139,000 bid to the only bidder, Northern Stone and Dirt Inc.. The street changes will take place from the Maiden Lane – Route 22 intersection to just beyond the Town Hall rather than to the Dollar Store as originally planned. Bids submitted during two previous bidding opportunities far exceeded the remaining $152,000 in NYS grant monies.  The Board decided to proceed, but only as far as the grant monies permitted. Given the upcoming sewer project, the Board is very reluctant to spend any more money than is absolutely necessary to maintain essential services.  

Major work will take place following the September 15-16 Applefest to be completed no later than November 15th. Minor work will take place prior to the Applefest. Supervisor Brandy McDonald made a special point to thank the Town’s grant coordinator Adele Douglas saying, “Adele, thank you for all your hard work.”  Douglas, former Town Councilman Donald McBrayer, and a Main Street Committee worked on the project for over four years. Click here to see the project as originally envisioned. 

A major step toward upgrading Peru’s sewer system was taken when the board voted to apply for a USDA Rural Development Administration loan in the amount of $3,612,000 over 38-years at a 3.5% interest rate. USDA interest rates are considerably less than the rates offered by local financial institutions. Planning is being conducted at this time with actual work to be done in 2020. 

Security cameras will soon be installed at Laphams Mills Park. The Board authorized expenditure of up to $999 from the Youth Commission’s budget.  A few weeks ago vandals removed equipment from a baseball dugout. More recently, one of the buildings was defaced with sun tan lotion. 

The Highway Department was authorized to purchase a new 25-ton heavy equipment trailer at a cost of $31,394. Rampart Trailers LLC of North Carolina is the supplier.  The Town will utilize NYS Consolidated Local Streets and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) monies to pay for the trailer. 

The Board authorized hiring A. J. Rivera as a Highway Department Motor Equipment Operator at an hourly rate of $14.78, plus benefits. 

The expenditure of $3,250 was approved for hydrogeological work to determine the feasibility of drilling a well to supplement the current reservoir. 

The regular meeting of the Peru Town Board was held on Monday, July 23, 2018 at the Peru Town Hall.  Those present were Mr. Brandy McDonald Supervisor; Mr. James Douglass, Councilman ; was not present and is excused, Mr. James Langley, Councilman; Mr. Melvin Irwin, Councilman; Mr. Matthew Favro, Town Attorney; Mrs. Dianne Miller, Town Clerk.  Also present Mr. Courtney Tetrault, Water/Sewer Superintendent; Mr. Michael Farrell, Highway Superintendent; Ms. Pamela Barber, Secretary to the Board and Mr. Dave Drollette, Dog Control Officer.

The meeting was called to order at 7:02 PM by Mr. McDonald, with the Pledge of Allegiance.  

Motion by Mr. Irwin, seconded by Mr. Langley to approve the minutes from the July 9, 2018 meeting.  

Ayes 3 Nays Motion Carried

Community Input and Questions

None

Lapham Mills Park Vandalism

Mr. McDonald, Ms. Barber and Mr. Tetrault  each received a phone call from John Flynn in the morning of July 15, 2018  that the equipment boxes in  the dug outs had been vandalized.  Mr. McDonald & Mr. Tetrault went to the park.  Locks were broken and all contents thrown onto ground.

Mr. Flynn was unable to attend this meeting but spoke with Mr. McDonald stating possible cameras to be installed and paid from the Youth Commission Budget.  Mr. Langley commented pricing will be needed to ensure enough funds in Mr. Flynn’s budget.

Permission to Request Bids for the Purchase of 25 Ton Equipment Trailer

Mr. Farrell was given permission to sell old trailer and motion made by Mr. Langley second by Mr. Irwin with 3Ayes to request bids for the Purchase of 25 Ton Equipment Trailer.

NYSDEC Comprehensive Compliance Inspection Report for Valcour Sewer Facility

No surprises with a marginal rating. New pumps to be installed.

Main Street Enhancement Project Re-Bid

Bids will be opened August 10, 2018

Other Business

Mr. Farrell is actively interviewing a Motor Equipment Operator. All positions will be filled once this position has been filled. The Highway Department has received $ 341,000 from the NYS Chips program which will be used for paving. Mr. Farrell estimates approximately 6 miles will be done. Mr. Langley asked the price per mile. The price is approximately $59,000 a mile.

Mr. Langley stated a $ 10,561.00 insurance check was received for the Bear Swamp lift station due to damage and electrical loss May 10, 2018.

Mr. Tetrault stated the public advisory committee complimented his team on the cleanliness on the Town’s public areas.  Mr. Tetrault asked that a check to NYSEG be expedited in the amount $ 6641.26 for the Bear Swamp Lift Station. Motion made by Mr. Langley to authorize payment second by Mr. Irwin with 3 Ayes. 

Mr. Tetrault asked for approval of $ 2000.00 for Sullivan Park ice rink fine grading. Money was raised for this project. Motion by Mr. Langley second by Mr. Irwin 3 Ayes to receive bids for this project

Public Comments on Agenda Items Only

None

RESOLUTION NUMBER:  18.07.23.01

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE POST-AUDIT PAYMENT OF CERTAIN CLAIMS, BILLS AND INVOICES OF THE TOWN

MOTION:  Mr. Langley   SECOND:  Mr. Irwin

WHEREAS, the Town Board has reviewed and audited the following claims, bills and invoices for services rendered and goods provided to the Town in July of 2018:

From Town Of Peru Vouchers: # 201800905 through and including # 201800990

Abstract dated 7/23/2018

For the dollar amount totaling:   $163,280.44 ; 

WHEREAS, the Town Board finds said claims, bills and invoices to be acceptable in form and reasonable in amount; 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT

RESOLVED, that payment of the aforementioned claims, bills and invoices is approved and the Supervisor be and hereby is authorized to make such payment; and be it further

RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.

Carried: 3 Ayes 0 Nays

Motion by Mr. Irwin, seconded by Mr. Langley to adjourn the regular meeting at 7:32 PM.  

Ayes 3 Nays 0 Motion Carried

_________________________Supervisor  _________________________Councilman

_________________________Councilman _________________________Councilman

Sunday, August 26, 2018, 12 – 4pm

Clinton County Historical Association, 98 Ohio Avenue, Plattsburgh 

On Sunday, August 26, women across the United States will be commemorating, “Women’s Equality Day”. This date was set-aside in 1971 as an annual event to celebrate the August 26, 1920, adoption of the 19^th Amendment to the Constitution.  The Commemoration’s goal is to raise awareness about the importance of gender equality and to commemorate the work and sacrifices made by women during the suffrage movement.

The Clinton County Suffrage Story is currently on exhibit at the Clinton County Historical Association Museum and part of the Museum’s effort to bring awareness to the dedicated suffragist movement and to reflect the length and breadth of the movement locally, statewide and nationally.

The Sunday Program will include:

12:00 – 3:30 pm, Guided tours of the Clinton County Suffrage Story Exhibit

1:00 – 4 pm, a series of videos and ‘shorts’ about the suffrage movement including “Forward Into the Light,” a documentary of the life of American Icon Inez Milholland.

Discussions will follow each film.

This program, free and open to the public, is co-sponsored by the Clinton County Historical Association and the League of Women Voters.

Just because we’re approaching the end of Summer, it doesn’t mean we have to stop eating Summertime goodies…. Come and finish your vacation with a smile and a $5 Michigan meal at the Harkness United Methodist Church! Mark your calendar for Sunday August 26th and plan to bring your family and join your friends at Michigans For Mission at the Harkness Church Hall, 776 Hallock Hill Road in Peru. The meal will be served from 11AM to 2:30PM, and there will be live music from 11:30 to 1:30. Where else can you get a Michigan, chips, pickle, drink and dessert for just $5.00?

There will also be a Bake Sale table loaded with extra goodies, and take-out meals are available. For more information, call (518) 643-8659 or (518) 834-7577. Hope to see you there!

AGENDA – TOWN BOARD REGULAR MEETING, AUGUST 13, 2018 @ 7:00 PM

1. Call Meeting To Order

2. Pledge of Allegiance

3. Roll Call

4. MOTION:  Approval of Minutes for the Town Board Regular Meeting of July 23, 2018; 

5. MOTION/DISCUSSION:  To Accept reports from all Departments: (Water/Sewer/Valcour; Highway; Town Clerk; Dog Control; Youth Department; Code/Zoning; Supervisor’s Report; Court; Website; JCEO; and Banking Reports)

6. Community Input

7. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION:  USDA Loan Acceptance Resolution.

8. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION:  Hiring of New Highway Motor Equipment Operator.

9. DISCUSSION:  Main St. Improvement Project Update. 

10. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION:  Purchase of a New 25 Ton Tag Along Equipment Trailer.

11. RESOLUTION/DISCUSSION:  Proposal for Hydrogeologic Work.

12. DISCUSSION:  Budget Workshops Scheduling.

13. DISCUSSION:  Court Clerk Training.

14. DISCUSSION:  Update for Cameras at Laphams Mills Park.

15. DISCUSSION:  Other Business.

16. DISCUSSION:  Public Comments on Agenda Items Only.

MOTION:     Adjourn

Source: Proposed Augur Lake boat launch questioned – Sun Community News & Printing

Source: Lake George Village to slash road salt use in Schuyler Heights for pilot project – Sun Community News & Printing

Training in Safe Handling of Firearms and Hunting Required before Purchasing a Hunting License

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today reminded all new hunters and trappers planning to go afield this season that they must first complete a mandatory hunter, bowhunter, or trapper education course before obtaining the appropriate sporting license or hunting privilege.

“DEC’s hunter education program provides future sportsmen and sportswomen training about how to be safe, responsible and ethical hunters and trappers,” said Commissioner Seggos. “We are grateful to the volunteer instructors who continue to provide their expertise and support to deliver this program. I encourage all prospective hunters and trappers to sign up for one of the hundreds of courses offered across New York State.”

First-time hunters and trappers are encouraged to sign up for certification courses now as these courses fill quickly. Each year, more than 45,000 New Yorkers take DEC’s hunter and trapper education courses.

DEC works closely with thousands of dedicated DEC-certified instructors statewide to provide these training courses free of charge. Courses are offered for Hunter Education, Bowhunter Education, Trapper Education, and Waterfowl Hunter Education.

DEC’s online registration system makes it easy to view a list of all available courses. Students can register from any device-smartphone, tablet or computer-24 hours a day, seven days a week. Courses are added continuously throughout the year, so those interested should regularly check the on-line system to find a course near them. To locate a hunter or trapper education course, visit DEC’s website or contact a local DEC office for assistance.

Students must complete homework prior to attending the required classroom and field course. The homework portion of the course provides an introduction to the subject and enhances understanding of the course material. Proof of the completed homework is required to attend the course. Students should register for the course well in advance of the course date in order to allow time to complete the homework requirement, which can take several hours.

Access to the homework materials and online homework options can be found on DEC’s website. Students may also follow the guidelines listed in the course announcement when registering for a course. Course manuals and homework sheets are always available from DEC wildlife offices and Hunter Education Program instructors.

Peru Central’s Board of Education launches its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, August 14, 2018 at 6:30 PM at the school district’s Community Room, adjacent to the main entrance of Peru Jr/Sr High School.  It is anticipated that an executive session will take place immediately following the 6:30 PM start, and that the school board will reconvene for public session business at approximately 6:45 PM.  Anticipated topics include:

• Code of Conduct
• Policy Review
• Bid Award
• Tax Levy
• Appointment of personnel

The full agenda is available on the District’s website. All are welcome.