The Peru Gazette

The regular meeting of the Peru Town Board was held on Monday, April 9, 2018, at the Peru Town Hall. Those present were Mr. Brandy McDonald Supervisor; Mr. James Douglass, Councilman; Mr. James Langley, Councilman; Mr. Melvin Irwin, Councilman; Mr. Matthew Favro, Town Attorney; Mrs. Dianne Miller, Town Clerk. Also present were Mr. Courtney Tetrault, Water/Sewer Superintendent; Mr. Michael Farrell, Highway Superintendent; Mr. Bob Guynup, Zoning Officer; Ms. Pamela Barber, Confidential Secretary to the Board and Mr. Dave Drollette, Dog Control officer.

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Mr. McDonald, with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Motion by Mr. Langley, seconded by Mr. Douglass to approve the minutes from the March 26, 2018 meeting. Ayes 4 Nays 0 Motion Carried

Motion by Mr.  Irwin, seconded by Mr. Douglass to include the reports from the following departments into the official record of tonight’s meeting. (Water/Sewer/Valcour; Highway; Town Clerk; Dog Control; Youth Department; Code/Zoning; Supervisor’s Report; Court; Website; and Banking Reports). Ayes 4 Nays 0 Motion Carried

Community Input and Questions
John Hart shared his concerns of the feral cat situation in his neighborhood located on Jabez Allen Road. He had contacted the N.Y.S. Department of Agriculture and they have no involvement with feral cats. Mr. Hart is asking for consideration to eliminate the situation. Mr. McDonald is going to reach out to other agencies for possible assistance in resolving the situation.

John Ryan recommended sending a letter of thanks to individuals for their service to our community that have retired. Mr. McDonald will follow up with Ms. Barber on the recommendation.

Zoning Ordinance Review regarding Banners
Mr. Guynup stated April 11 at 6PM before the zoning board meeting is being held to discuss the current banner sign regulations.

Approval of PLACE Alliance Northeast Contract

RESOLUTION NUMBER: 18.04.09.1 – APPROVING THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE TOWN OF PERU AND PLACE ALLIANCE NORTHEAST FOR THE MAIN ST. ENHANCEMENT PROJECT – PHASE II AND AUTHORIZING THE SUPERVISOR TO EXECUTE THE SAME.

MOTION: Mr. Douglass SECOND: Mr. Langley

WHEREAS, the Town Board has the contract between the Town of Peru and the PLACE Alliance Northeast for the Main St. Enhancement Project – Phase II, before it, THEREFORE, BE IT

RESOLVED, said proposed contract is approved and the Supervisor be and hereby is authorized to execute said contract, AND, BE IT

RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.
Ayes 4 Nays 0 Motion carried

Erection of Signage on Davey Drive

RESOLUTION NUMBER: 18.04.09.2 – REQUESTING THE TOWN OF PERU TO ERECT A SIGN BANNING TRACTOR TRAILER PARKING ON DAVEY DRIVE

MOTION BY: Mr. Langley SECOND BY: Mr. Irwin

WHEREAS, the Peru Town Board for safety reasons, desires to have erected a “No Tractor Trailer Parking” sign on Davey Drive, Peru, New York, and THEREFORE, BE IT

RESOLVED, that the Peru Town Board wishes to establish a “No Tractor Trailer Parking Zone” on Davey Drive and erect or cause to be erected appropriate “No Tractor Trailer Parking Zone” signs to mark the area established. AND, BE IT

RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.
4 Ayes Nays 0 Motion carried

Sewer Upgrade Funding Update
USDA has denied the low-interest application. Mr. McDonald will appeal that decision with a letter written by Liz Tedford. Mr. Tetrault has asked the Board to authorize $100,000.00 so the project can keep moving forward with construction to begin in 2020.

FEMA Storm Stella
Mr. Farrell has all the paperwork finalized and submitted including the P4 form for reimbursement of $29,167.26 for Storm Stella March 2017.

Other Business
Mr. Farrell stated Tyler Jarvis has completed his 90-day probation and he is doing really well, street sweeping had to be suspended due to inclement weather. The 100-200 tires from a deserted trailer is having to be transported to Hudson Falls at the Town’s expense for disposal.
The trailer was dismantled and scrapped and money turned in.

Mr. Drollette has a dog hearing in April and May.

Mr. Guynup is notifying residents of violating the zoning ordinances with a warning in an attempt to avoid court action.

Mr. Tetrault inquired about the pump house on Buttonwood subdivision. Mr. Guynup stated all paperwork was filed and now waiting for land acquisition from Don Swain.

Public Comments on Agenda Items Only
John Ryan asked the location of the feral cat situation which was the Jabez Allen Road.

Motion by Mr. Douglass seconded by Mr. Langley to adjourn the regular meeting at 7:36 PM. Ayes 4 Nays 0 Motion Carried

_________________________Supervisor _________________________Councilman

_________________________Councilman _________________________Councilman

The Clinton County Historical Association Announces:

³Relics of War: Clinton County 1774 – 1815 ²
May 7, 2018 from 6:30 7:30 pm
Clinton County Historical Association Museum, 98 Ohio Avenue, Plattsburgh

Source: East Branch of Ausable River over flood stage | News | pressrepublican.com

Source: NY governor condemns federal raid on upstate dairy farm | News & Observer

By John T. Ryan 

Peru School District Superintendent Dr. Thomas Palmer addressed the Town Board and residents regarding the District’s Capital Project that will be voted on by voters on May 15, 2018. The District seeks approval for an $18,485,000 “Three R” Capital Project that the Board says is designed to renovate, rejuvenate and restore existing facilities and meet the demands of 21st century learning. Dr. Palmer said the project would be financed by an existing $1,750,000 District Capital Reserve Fund, $700,000 from the District’s current fund balance and the remaining 88% by New York State school aid. 

The project includes restoring roofs, pavement and playgrounds; renovation of obsolete infrastructures such as heating and cooling systems, communication systems, plumbing fixtures, windows and lighting; rejuvenation of existing space such as the K-2 House kitchen, 3-5 House library, 3-5 art room, and High School science and art rooms. A project highlight is the conversion of an existing gym space into a two-level fitness center. It would include weight lifting equipment, cardiovascular fitness equipment, and a wrestling/fitness studio. Public access to the fitness facility during evening hours is anticipated. LED lighting for night games and events will also be installed at the stadium/track. 

An informational session on the Capital Project will be held on Tuesday, May 8th at 7 PM in the Middle/High School Community Room. An informational mailing is being made to all households in the District.  Dr. Palmer is also appearing before several town boards and community groups. To view Dr. Palmer’s presentation view the video from the 11:40 to 18:30- minute mark. Click here for Capital Project details.

Beth Spaugh-Barber of Rehoboth Homestead on Route 9 – Jabez Allen Road continued her effort to be permitted to fly banners or fluttering signs at her Route 9 farm stand. Spaugh-Barber was looking for a “workaround” to the existing zoning law which only permits such signs during limited periods such as grand openings. She began her presentation by stating, “It will be a cold day in hell before we can get the Zoning Board to change.” None of the Board members expressed agreement with her proposal. Counselor Melvin Irwin suggested that she work her proposal up through the Zoning Board.  See video from the 4:18 to the 10:40-minute marks. 

Bids on the Main Street Upgrade Project will be solicited on May 27 with a pre-bid conference on May 2, bid opening on May 10 and bid award on May 14.

Planning for the hamlet’s sewer system upgrade continues. The Board approved a contract with AES Engineering at an amount not to exceed $50,000 to conduct preliminary design which includes such things as aerial mapping and archeological studies. USDA recently denied the Town’s application for a low-interest loan for the $4 million project.  The Town is appealing the denial because financing the project through commercial banks would result in significantly higher interest charges. The Town hopes to begin construction in 2020. The Board approved a loan of $50,000 to the Sewer District from the General Fund to finance AES work.  NYS has awarded the Town 25% grant funding.

Supervisor Brandy McDonald said residents have been asking questions on broadband expansion in the Town. NYS recently awarded monies to make broadband available to every residence or business in the Town. The funds were awarded to companies such as Verizon and Primelink, not to the Town.  An exact time schedule has not been finalized. Work has to be completed no later than February 20, 2020. 

Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell continues to explore the installation of plastic liners in the deteriorating culverts at the Telegraph Street – Sullivan Road intersection. Installing liners rather than replacement should save significant money. Farrell is not sure if U.S. Fish and Wildlife or New York State DEC will approve the plastic liners. They have been approved in several other states.  

Town plows damaged five or six mailboxes during recent storms. Superintendent Farrell said he had removed the plow wings; nevertheless, the heavy ice damaged mailboxes. The Town replaces mailboxes, but only when the boxes were properly installed and when they are directly impacted by a Town plow.  The Town replaced one of the damaged boxes. 

The Board adjourned to Executive Session at 7:40 PM to discuss the employment history of an employee.  

PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – Prescription Opiate and Heroin Addiction and opiate-related overdoses continue to increase in the North Country. Several local professionals and concerned citizens have joined forces to form Substance Abuse Prevention and Recovery of Clinton County (SPARCC). The coalition, comprised of people in recovery, concerned citizens, treatment providers, elected officials, law enforcement, educators, and community organizations, joins together to raise awareness and to address the issues associated with substance abuse in our community. Our mission is to foster community health through education, prevention, treatment and recovery of substance abuse.

On Thursday, May 10 from 7 – 9 PM, SPARCC is hosting a free Community Event at the Strand Center for the Arts, 25 Brinkerhoff Street, Plattsburgh, in order to raise awareness of the impact of the heroin crisis and to educate the community about services available to help. Our guest speaker, Richard Jensen, will present his story of his toughest opponent – addiction. Mr. Jensen is a former wrestler who struggled with addiction for years and then found his courage to overcome his obstacles and barriers. 

All members of Clinton County and surrounding counties are urged to attend to be informed of the impact of the heroin crisis in our community and to join forces with SPARCC in creating positive change. Visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SPARCCNY to RSVP.

Source: SkyWest to begin service in late August | Local News | pressrepublican.com

From the Office of Assemblyman Bill Jones

Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay) announced that legislation he introduced designating Chazy Lake as an inland waterway for the purposes of waterfront revitalization has passed the Assembly (A.8723-A).

“Chazy Lake is a prime example of the North Country’s true beauty,” Jones said. “This legislation further commits to protecting our area’s natural resources and helps boost the local economy by increasing property values.”

The bill allows surrounding municipalities to apply for state and federal funding to protect the lake as well as boost infrastructure, fishing and local recreational activities to areas along the lake. Chazy Lake is a popular fishing spot located in Clinton County that serves as an integral part of the Adirondacks, stretching roughly four miles at the foot of the Lyon, Johnson and Ellenburg Mountains.

A Peru Gazette meeting summary will be added ASAP. Peru School District Superintendent Dr. Thomas Palmer was present to describe the $18 million capital project proposition that the voters will decide on May 15, 2018. His talk begins at the 11:15 minute/second mark of the video. Click here for Capital Project Details

Source: Legislative hearing on aid-in-dying bill attracts big crowds – Times Union

Source: Cuomo proposes plastic-bag ban – Times Union

Source: ‘We can treat them close to home’ | Local News | pressrepublican.com

On May 5, 2018 two significant roadside historical markers will be unveiled – one in Harkness and one in Keeseville. A third marker will be unveiled on May 19th in Keeseville. The public is warmly invited to attend. The Anderson Falls Heritage Society in Keeseville was granted permission to erect the markers. The markers were funded by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation Historic Roadside Marker Program.

The marker that will be unveiled in Harkness will commemorate the life of Dr. Georgia E. Harkness, a renowned Methodist theologian who was born in Harkness and was a member of the Harkness Methodist Church; the life of Thomas F. Conway, New York State Lt. Governor; and the depot for the Keeseville, Ausable Chasm, and Lake Champlain Railroad (nicknamed “Peanut Railroad”).

The ceremony honoring Dr. Georgia Harkness will take place on May 5th at 12:30 PM on the grounds of the Harkness Methodist Church. Beginning at noon, photos and historical items relating to Dr. Harkness will be displayed in the church. Dr. Harkness’ great nephew, Ralph Harkness of Peru, plans to attend and other descendants may attend.

The second marker honors the Honorable Thomas F. Conway (1859-1945). He served as New York State Lt. Governor, was an esteemed statesman and an independent thinker. His selfless work was visionary, benefiting farmers, local students and charities. In 1938 the Pope awarded him a singular honor by appointing him a knight commander of the Order of St. Gregory the Great. The unveiling will be at 1:30 PM at the Immaculate Conception Cemetery behind the Church of The Immaculate Conception, 7 Spring Street, Keeseville. A reception will follow at the Anderson Falls Heritage Museum, 96 Clinton Street, Keeseville at 2 PM.

On May 19, 2018 a third historic marker will be unveiled honoring the Keeseville, Ausable Chasm and Lake Champlain Rail Depot. The ceremony will take place at 2 PM at the North Country Club Restaurant.

Dt. Georgia Harkness has a special place in the hearts of the Harkness Methodist Church members. The following information appeared in one of the church’s Sunday bulletins:

Dr. Georgia Harkness (1891–1974) was born in Harkness NY, the youngest of four children of Joseph Warren Harkness and Lillie (Merrill) Harkness. She was a member of this church for nearly seventy years and never changed her membership, even when her calling made her a global citizen. Her birth place and burial site are located within a mile of here. She attended high school in Keeseville, and although she went on to continue her education at Cornell University, Boston University, Union Theological Seminary, and Harvard and Yale Divinity Schools, both her family and theological origins are firmly rooted in her beloved home town.

Dr. Harkness was a prolific author of dozens of books, as well as many inspirational poems, prayers, magazine articles, and hymns. Her writings addressed various topics including Theology, the Ministry of the Laity, spiritual life, and the responsibility of the church to combat war and discrimination against women and ethnic persons. She broke new ground for women in the Methodist church at a time when the pulpits and seminaries were closed to females, and her efforts to attain full clergy rights for women in the Methodist Church came to fruition at the 1956 General Conference. The first woman to teach in a seminary in the United States, Dr. Harkness served on the faculties of Garrett Biblical Institute and the Pacific School of Religion. She was a social pioneer who took radical positions for societal justice that were bold, prophetic, and drawn directly from Biblical truth. Her books, hymns and prayers are still widely known and are just as relevant to our day as they were in her own.

As a theologian Dr. Harkness was able to translate the most profound truths into plain, clear and direct language without diluting them. She was among the first theologians to interpret ministry as the calling of all God’s people; not just of the ordained. Georgia Harkness lived and articulated a vision that can continue to challenge church and society as we navigate the 21st century, and we hope she would be proud of this little church that strives to spread the message of Jesus’ love and care to our nearby neighbors as well as the larger global community. We are profoundly grateful for her extraordinary life and example, and for the opportunity to honor and continue her trailblazing legacy.

Source: Essex Co. worker allegedly murders DA’s brother in bar fight – LakePlacidNews.com | News and information on the Lake Placid and Essex County region of New York – Lake Placid News

Source: Behind Saranac Lake’s big green fence, a clean-up decades in the making | NCPR News

Source: What’s it like to be a child of color in the Adirondacks? – LakePlacidNews.com | News and information on the Lake Placid and Essex County region of New York – Lake Placid News

AGENDA – Planning Board, WEDNESDAY, May 9, 2018 @ 7:00 PM

TOWN OF PERU

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

1. 2-Lot Minor Subdivision with SEQR: P-2018-007 Winfried & Stefanie Holderied

2-Lot Minor Subdivision 

#280.1-5-4.1

Peru, NY 12972

2.  Merge with SEQR: P-2018-008 Winfried & Stefanie Holderied

Merge 

280.1-5-4.1 to 280.1-5-6

Peru, NY 12972

3.  Site Plan Review: P-2018-009 Shawn Garrow

Site Plan Review- Sign

3999 Rt. 9

Peru, NY 12972

4. Site Plan Review with SEQR: P-2018-010 Lisa & Scott Sartwell

Site Plan Review – Home Based Business for a Hair Salon

74 Felton Rd.

Peru, NY 12972

The North Country Chamber of Commerce Business Expo is the largest business-to-business event in northern New York! Registration has begun. Sponsored by Twinstate Technologies, Sun Community News & Printing, Local 22 & Local 44, ETS, Agency Insurance, & Community Bank, the Expo offers an easy way to connect with the business community of the North Country.

An 8’X10’ booth is $450 for Chamber members and $550 for not-yet-members. Discounts for multiple booths are available. Registration information can be found at www.northcountrychamber.com.

Business Expo will be held on June 7^th at the SUNY Field House. This event is a chance to showcase your products and services. More than 150 businesses will be on display. Exhibitors also have the opportunity to participate in the Exclusive Networking and Leads Session from 10 – Noon.

Doors open to the public from Noon-4:30.  Show off a new product, educate attendees about your services, and build relationships with current and potential customers.  Free coffee will be available throughout the day courtesy of La Quinta Inns & Suites ..

Assistance is available to those who need advice on how to maximize their success at the Expo. Call the Chamber at 563-1000 for more info.

Businesses of every type and size will be at the Expo. Reserve your booth today by visiting www.northcountrychamber.com or calling the Chamber at 518-563-1000.

Source: Judicial Conduct admin: Ellenburg justice failed to be faithful to the law | Local News | pressrepublican.com

Source: Are doctors to blame for opioid crisis? New Yorkers think so – Times Union

Mike Kirk and longtime vounteer Dan Rock getting the job done

Mike Kirk looked like he knew what he as doing

Day of Caring volunteer Corinne Pulsifer

By John T. Ryan

The Babbie Rural and Farming Museum was springing to life this morning as Day of Caring volunteers worked with longtime volunteers to prepare for the museum’s May 9th opening. Georgia Pacific employees Mike Kirk and Corrinne Pulsifer have participated in the Day of Caring for several years.

The United Way of the Adirondack Region, Inc. teams up with Project H.E.L.P. at SUNY Plattsburgh and the Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau for the Annual Day of Caring. Each year, this volunteer-driven event brings together local businesses, organizations, clubs and individuals to help regional nonprofit human service agencies and nonprofit attractions accomplish a variety of projects.

Source: Protecting the lake – LakePlacidNews.com | News and information on the Lake Placid and Essex County region of New York – Lake Placid News

Source: Gun control roars as issue in NY 21 House race, with Democrats shifting against NRA | NCPR News

Peru Central School District’s Board of Education will have a brief special meeting on Thursday, April 26th at 7:20 PM in the Jr/Sr High School Community Room.

Thursday’s brief special meeting will focus mainly on consideration of the BOCES administrative budget for the 2018‐2019 school year and consideration of candidates running for seats on this region’s BOCES.

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

All are welcome.