TOWN OF WATERTOWN
Regular Meeting
Municipal Building
September 9, 2021
Members Present: Joel R. Bartlett, Supervisor
Paul V. Desormo, Councilman
David D. Prosser, Councilman
Joanne McClusky, Councilwoman
Members Absent: Timothy McAtee, Councilman
Supervisor Bartlett opened the meeting with a roll call of the members present at 7:00 PM.
Attorney Russell joined via zoom.
MOTION #86-2021
Supervisor Bartlett moved to adopt the minutes from the August 12, 2021 Regular Meeting, Councilman Prosser seconded.
Ayes All
Mr. Tackley from the Rohde Center Food Pantry addressed the Board. He thanked them for their continued financial support for the food pantry. He informed the Board of the success of the program for so many families in the Southern Jefferson County area. He presented the Board members with information detailing statistics of the program. He asked them to please consider their program again in the 2022 budget. Considering the COVID situation he offered a possible 50% reduction of funds requested if that would help make a decision to continue support of the organization.
Supervisor Bartlett opened the public hearing at 7:00 pm concerning Local Law #2 of year 2021. A Local Law pursuant to Cannabis Law §131, opting out of licensing and establishing retail cannabis dispensaries and/or on-site cannabis consumption establishments within the Town of Watertown.
Bart Bonner, Co Rte 67, addressed the Board. He expressed his support of allowing the establishments for the sale of Cannabis products. He feels it is legal and the town could benefit from the tax revenue income.
Attorney Russell advised the Board, by adopting the resolution it allows the town to opt out before the December 31, 2021 deadline. The town could opt back in at any time in the future if they choose to.
No one else wished to speak; the public hearing was closed at 7:26 pm.
Supervisor Bartlett opened the public hearing at 7:27 pm regarding the zone change for parcel #82.07-1-2.1, 22088 County Route 60 (Floral Drive) from (R3) Residential 3 to (NC) Neighborhood Commercial. The town has not received the necessary paperwork to continue with the zone change therefore, they will adjourn the public hearing at 7:28 pm and reconvene the public hearing October 7th, 2021 at 7:00 pm.
MOTION #87-2021
WHEREAS, the Town of Watertown is in receipt of a request to change the zoning classification for parcel #82.07-1-2.1, 22088 County Route 60 (Floral Drive) from (R3) Residential 3 to (NC) Neighborhood Commercial that would allow for the development of two 3.5 MW ground mounted solar arrays; and
WHEREAS, existing zoning for the property would exclude the development of said solar array; and
WHEREAS, only a portion of the current zoning would need to be rezoned to allow solar development on the parcel; and
WHEREAS, property adjacent to this parcel is currently zoned (NC) Neighborhood Commercial.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, at the public hearing scheduled September 9, 2021concerning the Local Law for proposed zoning change the public hearing was kept open and is hereby schedule to reconvene Thursday October 7th, 2021 at 7:00 PM, at the Town of Watertown Municipal Office, 22867 County Route 67, Watertown NY, 13601, whereat all interested persons shall be afforded an opportunity to be heard on the proposed zone change.
A motion to adopt the forgoing resolution was offered by Supervisor Bartlett, seconded by Councilman Prosser.
Ayes All
Supervisor Bartlett opened the public hearing at 7:29 pm on a proposed rate increase of $0.50 per unit for Sewer Districts 2, 4 and 5, increasing the rates to $5.00 per unit. No one from the public wished to speak; the public hearing was closed at 7:30 pm.
The floor was opened for general comments:
Scott Clement, Hadcock Road, inquired from the Board if the NE water district included Hadcock Road. He feels there is a great need for it by the residence on this road.
Supervisor Bartlett explained the district did not include that area at this time. A map, plan and report is being prepared for the NYS Rte 126, Hampton Gardens, and Slate Road areas. He suggested Mr. Clement return in the spring of 2022 and the board could consider an extension of the district at that time. He told Mr. Clement a petition of the residents interested on this road would be helpful.
No one wished else wished to speak; the floor was closed.
Supervisor Bartlett accepted the Town Clerk’s Report.
MOTIONS/RESOLUTIONS
MOTION #88-2021
WHEREAS, at the August town council meeting a call for a public hearing and public notice for a proposed sewer rate increase for Sewer Districts 2, 4 and 5 to cover increased cost in the purchase waste system services from the City of Watertown; and
WHEREAS, at 7:00 PM, September 9, 2021 at the Town Municipal Offices, 22867 County Route 67, Watertown NY, 13601 a public hearing on the proposed sewer rate increase was conducted providing all interested persons in opportunity to be heard.
NOW THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Town Council, acting as administrators for the Town of Watertown Sewer Districts hereby authorizes an increase of $0.50 per unit charge to Sewer District 2, 4 and 5 users to replenish district funds balances to cover additional treatment cost for the City of Watertown treatment services.
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was offered by Supervisor Bartlett, seconded by Councilman Desormo.
Ayes All
MOTION #89-2021
WHEREAS, with the planned retirement of Town Assessor Roger Tibbitts, an interview was conducted for his potential replacement; and
WHEREAS, Robert A. Bick, Clay N.Y. was interviewed and has received favorable consideration, of a request to hire Mr. Bick on a part time basis to familiarize himself with the Sole Assessors responsibility for the Town of Watertown; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Bick has an experience and training necessary to perform the duties of Soul Assessor for the Town of Watertown.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, Mr. Bick is hereby hired as part time assistant to the Assessor at an hourly rate of $21.00 per hour for his services.
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was offered by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded in by Councilman Prosser.
Ayes All
The sand bid were opened:
Bauer Concrete and Masonry Inc., 1941 US Rte 11, Mannsville NY, 13661
$7.00 a yard – Minimum 2,500 yards of screened and loaded sand.
MOTION #90-2021
WHEREAS, the Town Council authorized a public notice at the August 12, 2021 meeting for sealed bids for the purchase of a minimum 2,500 yards of screened and loaded sand for highway department purposes in the winter months; and
WHEREAS, the Town accepted sealed bids accompanied by a non-collusion statement for the sand purchase up until 3:00 pm Thursday, September 9, 2021; and
WHEREAS, all bids submitted for consideration and in compliance with the General Municipal Law have been reviewed by this Board; and of the bids considered responsive and responsible the Town of the Watertown Council hereby authorizes the purchase of a minimum of 2,500 yards of screened and loaded sand from Bauer Concrete & Masonry, Inc, 1941 US Rte 11, Mannsville NY, 13661 for the purchase price of $7.00 per yard.
BE IT FUTHER RESOLVED, the Town of Watertown Council hereby awards the bid to Bauer Concrete & Masonry, Inc, 1941 US Rte 11, Mannsville NY, 13661.
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was offered by Supervisor Bartlett, seconded by Councilman Prosser.
Ayes All
The sale of equipment bids were opened.
MOTION #91-2021
WHEREAS, the Town Council authorized a public notice at the August 12, 2021 meeting, calling for sealed bids for highway department equipment no longer of use. Bids were received until 3:00 pm, September 9, 2021; and
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the following bids are hereby accepted and authorized for the sale of said equipment in as condition:
2005 International 7600 Single Axle Dump Truck Desormo Excavation- $6,500.00
2001 Ford F250 Pickup Dan Grandjean- $507.00
2006 Ford F250 Pickup Tracy Edgar- $1,010.00
1965 Cat Dozer D-6 Tracy Edgar- $5,010.00
1969 Walter Plow Truck Tracy Edgar- $520.00
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was offered by Supervisor Bartlett, seconded by Councilman Desormo.
Ayes All
The Board reviewed the Short EAF concerning opting out of allowing retail cannabis dispensaries and/or on-site consumption establishments within the boundaries of the Town of Watertown.
Part I
1. Does the proposed action only involve the legislative adoption of a plan, local law, ordinance, administrative rule, or regulation? If Yes, attach a narrative description of the intent of the proposed action and the environmental resources that may be affected in the municipality and proceed to Part 2. YES
Part II
1. Will the proposed action create a material conflict with an adopted land use plan or zoning regulations? NO
2. Will the proposed action result in a change in the use or intensity of use of land? NO
3. Will the proposed action impair the character or quality of the existing community?
NO
4. Will the proposed action have an impact on the environmental characteristics that caused the establishment of a Critical Environmental Area (CEA)? NO
5. Will the proposed action result in an adverse change in the existing level of traffic or affect existing infrastructure for mass transit, biking or walkway? NO
6. Will the proposed action cause an increase in the use of energy and it fails to incorporate reasonably available energy conservation or renewable energy opportunities? NO
7. Will the proposed action impact existing: a. public / private water supplies? b. public / private wastewater treatment utilities? NO
8. Will the proposed action impair the character or quality of important historic, archaeological, architectural or aesthetic resources? NO
9. Will the proposed action result in an adverse change to natural resources (e.g., wetlands, waterbodies, groundwater, air quality, flora and fauna)? NO
10. Will the proposed action result in an increase in the potential for erosion, flooding or drainage problems? NO
11. Will the proposed action create a hazard to environmental resources or human health?
NO
The board determined, based on the information and analysis above, and any supporting documentation that the proposed action will not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts.
MOTION #92-2021
WHEREAS, Local Law No. 2 of the year 2021, a Local Law to opt the Town of Watertown out of licensing and establishing retail cannabis dispensaries and/or on-site cannabis consumption establishments in the Town of Watertown introduced by a member of the Board at a meeting thereof held on August 12, 2021, and by a majority vote of the Councilmembers present at such meeting, a public hearing was duly scheduled to consider Local Law No. 2 of 2021 for September 9, 2021 at 7:00 PM, and
WHEREAS, notice of the public hearing was duly published and posted as required by law, and on September 9, 2021, at 7:00 PM, a public hearing was duly held to hear all persons interested in the subject matter of Local Law No. 2 of 2021.
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved by the Board of the Town of Watertown as follows:
1. The foregoing recitations are incorporated herein and made a part hereof as if fully set forth hereafter.
2. The adoption of Local Law No. 2 of 2021 is an Unlisted action pursuant to the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act and the regulations promulgated thereunder.
3. This Board has now completed its review of the proposed Local Law pursuant to the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act and has issued its determination that the proposed Local Law will not have an impact on the Environment.
4. Based upon the foregoing, Local Law No. 2 of the year 2021 is hereby adopted and the Clerk is instructed to file the same with the New York State Department of State following the completion of the review and therefor under the statue as to permissive referendum.
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was made by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Councilmember McClusky and upon a roll call vote of the Board was duly adopted as follows:
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.
Supervisor Joel Bartlett yes
Councilman Paul Desormo yes
Councilman David Prosser yes
Councilman Timothy McAtee absent
Councilwoman Joanne McClusky yes
MOTION #93-2021
Supervisor Bartlett moved to pay the following abstracts as audited.
Utilities paid prior to the meeting
General Vouchers # 177 to 179 Total $ 11,850.44
Highway Vouchers # 148 to 148 Total $ 16,849.45
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 75 to 75 Total $ 4,725.08
Vouchers approved for monthly meeting
General Vouchers # 180 to 196 Total $ 20,033.74
Highway Vouchers # 149 to 156 Total $ 12,160.36
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 76 to 91 Total $ 135,451.82
Councilmember Prosser seconded the motion.
Ayes All
Old/New Business
Included in the Board packets:
– Resume for Robert A. Bick, part time assessor
– Teamster contract request for new contract
Supervisor Bartlett discussed the following issues with the Board:
The water from the hydrant the Fire Department uses to fill the trucks to practice is unmetered water. This has created a short fall of funds in the district that has to be paid for by the other customers in this district. He met with the Fire Commissioners and they will now meter and pay for the water they use. He discussed the special district tax levy for the new truck the fire department is purchasing. This tax should only be added to the commercial customers within the area it benefits (NYS Rte 3, 12F and Industrial Park). He asked them to submit a revenue sheet with this year’s expense budget.
Discussion with Highway Superintendent Clement concerning paving the base coat on Alexander Drive in the next couple of weeks.
Updates on the status of the bid process for Water 1 and Sewer 2 Districts extension and improvements. Supervisor Bartlett is working with Key Bank for low interest funding. He is also hoping to get some grant funding from NYSDEC for the improvements to the Sewer District 1 treatment facility.
Property transfers with Town of Hounsfield. He is hoping to schedule a joint public hearing with both towns later this month. Possible dates will be September 22 or 26.
The Board discussed the Teamsters contract request. Supervisor Bartlett asked the Board to review it and get back to him with their thoughts.
MOTION #94-2021
WHEREAS, the Town of Watertown possesses numerous items that are considered surplus equipment no longer of use to the town; and
WHEREAS, it is in the Town’s best interest to sell these surplus item in as is condition to the highest bidder.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk is authorized to publish in the official newspaper of the town a call for concealed sealed bids on the following surplus equipment;
2000 Sterling garbage truck with 7-yard packer
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all sealed bids will be submitted to the Town Clerk’s Office, 22867 County Route 67, Watertown NY 13601 up until 3:00 PM, Thursday October 7, 2021. All bids will be reviewed by the town council at its regular meeting held at 7:00 PM October 7, 2021, with the Town retaining the right to refuse any and all bids submitted.
A motion to adopt the forgoing resolution was offered by Supervisor Bartlett, seconded by Councilman Desormo.
Ayes All
MOTION #95-2021
Councilman Prosser moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:32 PM, seconded by Councilman Desormo.
Ayes All
_____________________________
Pamela D. Desormo, Town Clerk