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MEETING
NOTICES, EVENTS & MINUTES
Durham Town Board Meetings
July 6 & 20
7:30 p.m.
Town Building, 7308 Route 81
Court Nights
Mon, July 12, 19, 26
6:30 p.m.
Town Building, 7308 Route 81
Court Clerk will not have hours week of June 28
Durham Recreation Program
July 6 thru July 30, 2010
Monday thru Friday
9:30 a.m. to Noon
Information contact Ruth Fishman 518-634-7603
Oak Hill Cemetery Association Meeting
July 7, 2010
6:30 p.m.
Durham Town Hall
7309 State Route 81
East Durham
Reval Information Meeting
July 8, 2010
7 p.m.
Durham Town Hall
7309 State Route 81
East Durham
Durham Historic Preservation Meeting
July 10, 2010
9 a.m.
Durham Town Hall
7309 State Route 81
East Durham
East Durham Irish Arts Week
July 12 - 16, 2010
www.irishvillageusa.com
Grey Fox IBMA Bluegrass Festival
July 15-18
Oak Hill, NY
www.greyfoxbluegrass.com
Andy McGann Music Festival
July 17, 2010
www.east-durham.org
Greene County
Youth Fair
July 22, 23, 24 & 25
Angelo Canna Park
Cairo, NY
information: 518-239-6587
Annual Oak Hill Days
July 30 & 31
Anthem Sports
3rd Annual Tour of the Catskills
Cycling Race
July 30 & 31
information: 518-275-6185 or www.tourofthecatskills.com
MINUTES:
REGULAR MEETING, TOWN OF DURHAM, MAY 4, 2010
A regular meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Durham, County of Greene and the State of New York was held
at the Town Hall, 7309 State Route 81, East Durham, NY on the 4th day of May 2010.
PRESENT: Gary Hulbert ---- Supervisor
Linda Sutton ---- Councilperson
Jerry Cunningham ---- Councilperson
William Carr ---- Councilperson
Jodi Wood ---- Councilperson
Chris Kohrs ---- Town Clerk
OTHERS PRESENT: Wes Moore, Highway Superintendent; Larry Cooke, Code Enforcement Officer; Hillary Hawke, Daily
Mail; twenty-four residents.
Supervisor Hulbert called the meeting to order at 7:33 p.m. with the pledge to the flag.
Supervisor Hulbert announced that the Town of Rensselaerville has extended its moratorium on Wind towers.
Proof of Notice having been furnished, the Public Hearing on the Tremble Subdivision was called to order at 7:35
p.m. by Supervisor Hulbert.
The following person(s) spoke in support of the proposed subdivision:
None
The following person(s) spoke against the proposed subdivision:
None
All persons desiring to be heard, having been heard, the Hearing was terminated at 7:37 p.m.
Ms. Wood motioned to make a negative declaration on the SEQR seconded by Mr. Cunningham, all in favor motion carried.
(Hulbert-yea, Sutton-Yea, Cunningham-yea, Carr-yea, Wood-yea)
Mrs. Sutton motioned to approve the subdivision of James Tremble, 2929 County Route 20, Cornwallville (tax id 48.02-1-10,
11 & 26) seconded by Ms. Wood, all in favor motion carried. (Hulbert-yea, Sutton-Yea, Cunningham-yea, Carr-yea,
Wood-yea)
Discussion on the proposed Parisella subdivision was postponed until May 18, 2010, as there was not a representative
present.
Lisa Husted, Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival, submitted the remaining documentation for the 2010 Mass Gathering permit,
except for the acknowledgement from the Greene County Sheriff.
Mrs. Sutton motioned to approve the Mass Gathering Permit 2010-02 to Greyfox Bluegrass Festival, July 15-18, 2010,
seconded by Ms. Wood, all in favor motion carried. (Hulbert-yea, Sutton-Yea, Cunningham-yea, Carr-yea, Wood-yea)
Proof of Notice having been furnished, the Public Hearing on the Sutton/Sharkey Subdivision was called to order
at 7:46 p.m. by Supervisor Hulbert.
The following person spoke in support of the proposed subdivision:
John W. Abbuhl - via letter
The following person(s) spoke against the proposed subdivision:
None
All persons desiring to be heard, having been heard, the Hearing was terminated at 7:47 p.m.
Ms. Wood motioned to make a negative declaration on the SEQR seconded by Mr. Carr, all in favor motion carried.
(Hulbert-yea, Sutton-Yea, Cunningham-yea, Carr-yea, Wood-yea)
Mr. Cunningham motioned to approve the Sutton/Sharkey Subdivision, 501 Sutton Road, Cornwallville (tax id #47.00-1-12.1)
seconded by Mrs. Sutton all in favor motion carried. (Hulbert-yea, Sutton-Yea, Cunningham-yea, Carr-yea, Wood-yea)
Dr. Goldstein addressed the board regarding the NYS Quality Communities Grant Program, and the Ag and Open Space
Grant. The final summary needs to be completed for each project. Dr. Goldstein is willing to coordinate the different
committees so that the information can be compiled into one document and submitted, the town would administer the
remaining stages of the grant. A discussion followed, a meeting will be scheduled for May 13, 14 or 15 the Andy
Cole of ERO who has been instrumental in much of the work on both projects. Rick Zimmerman and Glenwood will be
contacted to add their work to the final report.
Dr. Goldstein updated the board on the status of the Durham Valley Scenic Byway project, which is being administered
by the Durham Valley Land Trust. A copy of the draft plan is available at the Town Hall; the public hearing will
be May 15, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Durham Training Center. The draft is also available on line at www.durhamvalley.com.
It is the intention of this project once approved to open the area up to additional funds through NYS Scenic Byways
as well as National funding opportunities. The component of the plan for the Durham Valley Land Trust to purchase
a plot of land along the Susquehanna Turnpike in on hold as the property owner has passed on and they are now dealing
with the estate.
Ms. Sutton motioned to approve the 2010 Independence Day Fireworks contract with Telstar of Auburn, NY for $2,999.00
seconded by Ms. Wood, all in favor motion carried. (Hulbert-yea, Sutton-Yea, Cunningham-yea, Carr-yea, Wood-yea)
Resolution 2010-06 Authorizing the Town of Durham to Request Assistance in the Preparation of an Economic Development
Grant Application.
Councilman Carr offered the following resolution. WHEREAS, the Town of Durham is home to Stiefel Laboratories,
Inc. a manufacturer of pharmaceutical products; and
WHEREAS, Greene County New York State and the Town of Durham have identified the need to provide Stiefel Laboratories,
Inc. with financial assistance to facilitate the implementation of an economic development project that will retain
211 jobs at the Stiefel site; and
WHEREAS, the Greene County Planning & Economic Development Department, in concert with the Greene County Industrial
Development Agency, have the capacity and experience necessary to prepare a New York State Community Development
Block Grant application for the Stiefel Laboratories Economic Development Project;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Town of Durham hereby requests Greene County to submit on its behalf an application
for funding through the 2010 New York State Community Development Block Grant Program; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Town Supervisor is hereby authorized and directed to communicate this request to
appropriate Greene County officials, and to take any and all actions necessary to assist the County in the preparation
of this application.
Seconded by Councilman Sutton and carried.
The question of the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly put to a vote of roll call, which resulted as
follows: 5 yea
Mr. Hulbert-yea Mrs. Sutton-yea Mr. Carr-yea Mr. Cunningham-yea
Ms. Wood-yea
The resolution was thereupon declared adopted.
Mr. Carr made is second presentation "A Discussion of Land Use Regulation in the Town of Durham". He
has reviewed the regulations in our surrounding towns and has found that they have each developed a clear view
of their development objectives before implementing comprehensive regulations-often in the context of zoning and
sometimes via Local Laws. It is his opinion that the Comprehensive Plan for the Town of Durham is a wonderful
start but that we lack definition and before we move on we should review our site plan, signage, junk, junkyards,
and fences, dilapidate structures etc. He sited Berne, Cairo and Rensselaerville as examples of meaningful site-plan
review process. Catskill and Coxsackie's regulations on junk, junk vehicles and signs are concise yet specific
and easily understood.
It is Mr. Carr's recommendation that a quick fix comprised of a handful of land use laws will not serve purpose
of the Town of Durham to restore and grow our tourism industry. He suggests that a subcommittee of the Town Board
supported by legal counsel and an experienced facilitator along with significant community input be formed. That
the group should be tasked with the development of a carefully constructed legal framework for Land Use Regulation
within in our town.
Mr. Karkheck stated he does not feel that zoning is necessary to make our goals come true, Land Use Regulation
is the definition of Zoning. Mr. Carr explained he did not mention zoning and feels that we can accomplish just
short of zoning.
Additional discussion followed with the following comments
…the dump proposed for Cornwallville a few years back illustrates our vulnerability
…caution with the composition of the sub committee so as one person(s) agenda doesn't become the direction of the
committee
…objection to land use dictating what one can or can't do with their property
…zoning detours those who have little from making something
…the review is necessary and the will of the majority will prevail
…site plan can be stringent without zoning
…comprehensive plan recommended and anticipated the need for this review
…supports looking at local regulation vs. land use regulation i.e.) Windham
…opposed to the town putting a bunch of regulations on property owners.
…lets add agriculture back into the review as an economic activity in our town
Ms. Wood volunteered to sit on the committee.
Four companies have been contacted to submit bids for central air condition for the town offices. The bids will
be reviewed at the May 18, 2010 meeting.
Mr. Cunningham motioned to allow Mr. Carr and Ms. Wood to speak with Town Attorney Rappleyea on an exploratory
nature regarding the Land use Study subject to cancelation at anytime seconded by Mrs. Sutton all in favor motion
carried. (Hulbert-yea, Sutton-Yea, Cunningham-yea, Carr-yea, Wood-yea)
Supervisor Hulbert announced that the newly formed Durham Chamber of Commerce would meet Wed, May 5 at 7 p.m. at
the Durham Town Hall.
Mrs. Rascoe asked if a town employee could be charged or hired to water the plants in the East Durham corridor
this summer? The person who did last year is not able to due to his health. The board asked the Task Force to
make a formal presentation to the board outlining the cost of the project. The highway department used to operate
with nine men and is currently down to seven, whereas, they do not have the extra personnel to perform the job.
Discussion followed no decision was made.
Historian Nick Nahas announced the Durham Historic Preservation committee meets the second Saturday of each month
9 a.m. at the Durham Town Hall.
Highway Supervisor Moore approached the board regarding purchasing a 2011 Snow Plow. He has specked one out under
state contract for $162,000 and with the money received from FEMA for the 2008 ice storms and surplus earmarked
for the replacement of a snow plow he as enough to pay for the truck without having to borrow.
Mr. Cunningham motioned to permit Highway Supervisor Moore to purchase the 2011 International Model 7500 SFA 4x4
Snowplow under state contract #PC62176 seconded by Mr. Carr all in favor motion carried. (Hulbert-yea, Sutton-Yea,
Cunningham-yea, Carr-yea, Wood-yea)
Ms. Wood motioned to adjourn at 9:15 p.m. seconded by Mr. Carr.
SPECIAL MEETING, TOWN OF DURHAM, MAY 13, 2010
A special meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Durham, County of Greene and the State of New York was held
at the Town Hall, 7309 State Route 81, East Durham, NY on the 13th day of May 2010.
PRESENT: Gary Hulbert ---- Supervisor
Linda Sutton ---- Councilperson
Jerry Cunningham ---- Councilperson
William Carr ---- Councilperson
Jodi Wood ---- Councilperson
Chris Kohrs ---- Town Clerk
OTHERS PRESENT: Andy Cole, ERO, Dr. Goldstein, Mike Boyle, Jack Rascoe, Erin Myhre, Lisa Trafton, Mick Bissere-Cornell
Cooperative Extension, Martha Suwara.
The town board met with members of the Durham Agricultural Committee to review and discuss what has been accomplished
by the committee under the Agricultural and Open Space grant project. Dr. Goldstein facilitated the meeting.
Discussion followed listing the many assets our community has to history and agriculture. The committee is collectively
trying to pursue Agri-tourism for our town as well as ideas that will support sustainable agriculture. The current
grant is for a strategic plan only. Once a business plan is developed, it can be used to obtain funding to start
a project. The Agricultural Committee with gather the necessary information to complete the final portion of the
Ag and Open Space grant. July 29, 2010 the Agricultural Committee will meet with the town board to sort and compile
the various documents and information gathered during the project in order to prepare the final report for the
state.
Many ideas were discussed regarding integrating open space and agriculture.
REGULAR MEETING, TOWN OF DURHAM, MAY 18, 2010
A meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Durham, County of Greene and the State of New York was held at the Town
Hall, 7309 State Route 81, East Durham, NY on the 18th day of May 2010.
PRESENT: Gary Hulbert ---- Supervisor
Linda Sutton ---- Councilperson
Jerry Cunningham ---- Councilperson
Chris Kohrs ---- Town Clerk
Jodi Wood ---- Councilperson
ABSENT: William Carr ---- Councilperson
OTHERS PRESENT: Highway Superintendent, Wes Moore; Town Attorney, Tal Rappleyea; David Cunningham, Building Inspector;
Larry Cooke, Code Enforcement Officer; Police Sgt., Tom Sutton; Town Historian, Nick Nahas - seventeen community
members.
Supervisor Hulbert called the meeting to order at 7:33 p.m. with the pledge to the flag.
Sandy Matthis, Greene County IDA and Warren Hart, Greene County Economic Development spoke to the audience about
the Community Development Grant - Stiefel Laboratories. This is the first of many public hearings regarding funding
for projects through the Community Development Grant program. The next public hearing will be June 1, 2010 at
7:30 p.m. and will relate directly to the Stiefel Laboratories (GSK) project. Money for these projects is funneled
from the Federal government to the state to the town.
Mr. Matthis explained there is $750,000 available per calendar year and this year $716,000 has been designated
for Stiefel Laboratories (GSK). We were referred to the following websites for additional information www.greeneida.com
(Stiefel's project) and www.greenebusiness.com (general information). This is a competitive process and a use
it or lose it program. The Office of Community Renewal reviews and determines which applications are sent to the
board at the state level and only a municipality can apply for funding. The Town board decides which applications
to submit and the county provides support to the town.
Justin Nevins, Boy Scout Troup 42 announced there is an Eagle Scout fundraiser dinner June 19, 2010 from 5 pm to
8 pm at the Norton Hill United Methodist Church. The cost is $20 per person and the proceeds with help him to
purchase three automatic defibulators for the town halls of Durham, Greenville and Rensselaerville. The approximate
cost of each defibulator is $800.
Mrs. Sutton motioned approve the minutes of April 6 and April 20, 2010, seconded by Ms. Wood all in favor motion
carried. (Yeas-4, Hulbert, Sutton, Cunningham, Wood, Nays-0, Absent-1, Carr)
Highway Superintendent Moore reported his crew has been working on getting the roads in shape for the summer season,
sweeping and repairing holes. They have received crushed gravel from Carvers to repair the dirt roads and are grading
and rolling the dirt roads. This week they are prepping to pave 8000 feet of Stone Bridge Road. He is waiting
to hear from the state as to how much funding we will receive under the CHIPS program before he continues with
other projects.
Building Inspector Cunningham reported issuing four demolition permits, four addition/alteration permits, garage
permits, one storage permit, and one permit renewal (garage).
Code Enforcement officer Cooke reported have completed twenty-two inspections resulting in two new violations,
three orders to demolish unsafe buildings, two open cases of unsafe buildings were closed as the owners have reached
full compliance. He issued two demolition permits, one Certificate of Occupancy and one Certificate of compliance.
Mr. Cooke also informed everyone that DEC - rule making division is developing legislation on outdoor wood burning
stoves. The rule will apply to existing units as well as new units. The units will need to be 100 feet from property
line, smoke stacks at least 2 feet above peak any roofline, no summer operations, additional restrictions can be
found on the DEC website.
Attorney Rappleyea reported no new issues and continues to monitor the Weldon House litigation.
Tax Collector Kohrs reported there remains $524,192.05 uncollected.
Resolution 2010-07 Purchase of a 2011 International Model 7500 SFA 4x4 Snow Plow
Councilman Cunningham offered the following resolution and moved its adoption:
WHEREAS, the Town of Durham has need of a snowplow; and
WHEREAS, the State of New York has advertised and has chosen Ben Funk, Inc. as the contractor
WHEREAS, Ben Funk, Inc. quoted a price of $162,805.49 based on 2010 NYS contract #PC62176 for the Town of Durham
to purchase said vehicle;
NOW THEREFORE, be it
RESOLVED, that the Town of Durham does hereby purchase said 2011 Model 7500 SFA 4X4 Snow Plow for $154,045.49 with
extended warranty for $8,760.00 totaling $162,805.49
Seconded by Councilwoman Sutton.
The question of the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly put to a vote of roll call, which resulted
as follows: 4 yeas, 0-Nays, 1-Absent
Mr. Hulbert-yea Mrs. Sutton-yea Mr. Carr-Absent
Ms. Wood-yea Mr. Cunningham-yea
The resolution was thereupon declared adopted.
Mrs. Sutton motioned to send a letter of support to the 3rd Annual Tour of the Catskills Cycling Race, July 30-
August 1, seconded by Ms. Wood, all in favor motion carried. (Yeas-4, Hulbert, Sutton, Cunningham, Wood, Nays-0,
Absent-1, Carr)
The town contacted four companies to obtain quotes for central air conditioning for the offices and meeting room.
As of this date only one has present a quote, two others have done an inspection but have not responded. The
fourth declined the opportunity to bid, as it requires prevailing wage. Discussion followed with the board deciding
not to take action and to wait to see if the other two companies send in their bids.
Greene County will hold a Household Hazardous Waste Collection event in Athens on June 26, 2010 contact 518-943-4600
or solidwaste@discovergreene.com with questions.
A public hearing on extending the Temporary Moratorium on Resort Conversion will be June 1, 2010 at 7:30 p.m.
The Town of Durham equalization rate is 64% for 2010.
The board reviewed and approved the following bills to be paid:
Abstract #1008, consisting of 2010 Vouchers #369 through #387 for $35,422.45 broken down as follows:
General Funds $ 4,255.64
Highway Funds $ 236.85
Trust & Agency $ 30,929.96
Abstract #1009, consisting of 2010 Vouchers #388 through #428 for $52,863.13 broken down as follows:
General Funds $ 16,456.40
Highway Funds $ 35,649.09
Street Lighting $ 757.64
Ms. Wood motioned to adjourn at 8:24 p.m. seconded by Mr. Cunningham.
REGULAR MEETING, TOWN OF DURHAM, June 1, 2010
A meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Durham, County of Greene and the State of New York was held at the Town
Hall, 7309 State Route 81, East Durham, NY on the 1st day of June 2010.
PRESENT: Gary Hulbert ---- Supervisor
William Carr ---- Councilperson
Jerry Cunningham ---- Councilperson
Linda Sutton ---- Councilperson
Jodi Wood ---- Councilperson
Chris Kohrs ---- Town Clerk
OTHERS PRESENT: Highway Superintendent, Wes Moore; Larry Cooke, Code Enforcement Officer, Hillary Hawke, Daily
Mail - ten community members.
Supervisor Hulbert called the meeting to order at 7:34 p.m. with the pledge to the flag.
Proof of Notice having been furnished, the Public Hearing on the Community Development Grant with Stiefel's Lab/GSK,
Inc. and the Town of Durham was called to order at 7:36 p.m. by Supervisor Hulbert.
Sandy Mathis, Greene County IDA gave an overview of the grant objectives, to maintain Stiefel's Manufacturing and
bring in additional employment opportunities. Stiefel's will us the funding to change their production from its
current product to an Aqua Fresh production site. Some of the employees from the Clifton, NJ plant (which is closing)
will be relocated to Oak Hill. It is estimated that 211 positions will be maintained, so will be filled with current
employees and others (depending on job set skills) will come from NJ. (151 jobs retained and 50 new positions
created)
The following person(s) spoke in support of the Community Development Grant project:
None
The following person(s) spoke against the Community Development Grant project:
None
All persons desiring to be heard, having been heard, the Hearing was terminated at 7:46 p.m.
Code Enforcement Officer Cooke informed the board he would be placing the following public notice in the Daily
mail:
The Town of Durham will hold a public hearing on June 15, 2010 at 7:30 p.m. 7309 State Route 81, East Durham, NY
12423. The purpose of the hearing will be to take testimony whether the collapsed building(s) located at 983 Cochrane
Road, tax map 32.00-1-24 (Dorazio) and 7719 Route 81, tax map 21.02-3-9 (Glen Royal) are unsafe and dangerous and
whether the demolition and removal of said building(s) should be ordered. He has sent notices to the property
owners requesting that they demolish the building and no action on their part has been taken. If the property
owners do not correct the condition of the sites, the town will need to requests bids to have the work done and
the cost would be levied onto the property taxes of the owner. The county has passed a law requiring the town
to notify them prior to accepting a bid for demolition and removal, as they may be able to perform the work at
a lower cost to the general taxpayer.
Mrs. Sutton asked what the situation was with the property in East Durham across from Saverio's Pizza. Mr. Cooke
explained the property is quite delinquent in taxes had been in bankruptcy, which is now dismissed. The county
will be putting the property up for tax auction soon.
The board received a letter for resignation from Highway Superintendent Moore who will retire June 23, 2010 having
worked for the town for thirty-seven years.
Mr. Cunningham motioned to approve the purchase of a 15' dump body military truck with tri axle from T & T
Body King for $9,831.00 seconded by Mr. Carr, all in favor motion carried. (Yeas-5, Hulbert, Sutton, Cunningham,
Wood, and Carr)
Mrs. Sutton motioned to approve support to the Greene County Council of the Arts Sprouts program for $275, seconded
Ms. Wood, all in favor motion carried. (Yeas-5, Hulbert, Sutton, Cunningham, Wood, and Carr)
The board discussed central air conditioning; we have received two quotes on for a single system $15,000 and one
for a zoned system $24,000. Discussion followed and the board decided to go back to single units as the cost was
too prohibitive.
Proof of Notice having been furnished, the Public Hearing on the proposed Local Law to Extend the Temporary Moratorium
on Resort Conversion was called to order at 7:59 p.m. by Supervisor Hulbert.
Attorney Rappleyea explained this is would be Local Law #2 of 2010 extending Local Law #1 of 2010 Temporary Moratorium
on Resort Conversion, of six months. The law could be repealed if the board finds it necessary prior the end of
the six months. It was explained that with Local Law 1 of 2010 and Local Law #2 of 2010 resorts could not have
a change of use from their current use other than a one or two family home.
The following person(s) offered comments regarding the proposed Local Law #2 extending the Temporary Moratorium
on Resort Conversion for six months:
Mr. Carr explained he has formed a task force with himself, Ms. Wood, and Mrs. Allan and will be meeting with Dr.
Goldstein who has compiled a great deal of information regarding other communities through out the state and their
land use efforts to maintain a tourist destination. He will make presentations at up coming meetings on their
progress and suggestions on how to meet our objectives.
Ms. Wood commented on the importance of working with the Agricultural Committee and their ideas on maintaining
their existence while encouraging tourism and economic growth.
Mr. Norbury expressed his concern regarding the number of rooms the town has lost over the last five years, with
resorts going out of business or being converted to other uses. Stated he would like to see the community embrace
more weekend venues and big events to keep the resorts open and growing.
All persons desiring to be heard, having been heard, the Hearing was terminated at 8:10 p.m.
Mr. Carr motioned to advertise a part time position to water plants along State Route 145 in the hamlet of East
Durham, seconded by Ms. Wood, all in favor motion carried. (Yeas-5, Hulbert, Sutton, Cunningham, Wood, and Carr)
Until the position is filled the highway will water Monday thru Thursday, board members volunteered to cover Friday,
Saturday and Sunday.
The board discussed the Reading Room and agreed to let it continue through 2010. They will discuss again during
the 2011 budget process.
There was no report from grievance day and it was estimated they reviewed fifteen applications.
Ms. Wood announced the Oak Hill Durham Volunteer Fire Department would host the Annual Greene County Firemen's
Drill Day, Saturday June 12 starting at 9 a.m. It is a good time for firefighters and spectators.
Mr. Hulbert reminded everyone of the BS Troop 42 Eagle Scout fundraising dinner June 19, at the Norton Hill United
Methodist Church from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Scout Nevins is raising money to outfit the Durham Town Hall, Rensselaerville
Town Hall and Greenville Town Hall with Automatic Defibrillators.
Town Historian Nahas announced a Cemetery Conservation Preservation Seminar Saturday, June 19 at the Town Hall
starting at 10 a.m.
Alan Beechert informed the board that Oak Hill Fire Company voted to have a fire truck on the grounds of the Grey
Fox Music Festival.
Ms. Wood motioned to adjourn at 8:28 p.m. seconded by Mr. Carr.
SPECIAL MEETING, TOWN OF DURHAM, JUNE 09, 2010
A meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Durham, County of Greene and the State of New York was held at the Town
Hall, 7309 State Route 81, East Durham, NY on the 9th day of June 2010.
PRESENT: Gary Hulbert ---- Supervisor
Linda Sutton ---- Councilperson
Jerry Cunningham ---- Councilperson
Jodi Wood ---- Councilperson
Chris Kohrs ---- Town Clerk
ABSENT: William Carr ---- Councilperson
OTHERS PRESENT: Terry Borwegen, OHDVFC; Alan Beechert, OHDVFC; Lillian Wood, OHDVFC; Lacey Sala, OHDVFC; DANIEL
SALA, OHDVFC; MITZI-SU FREMGEN, OHDVFC; CHARLIE FREMGEN, OHDVFC; CONNIE WHITBECK, OHDVFC; SYDNEY KOHRS, OHDVFC;
CARL KOHRS, OHDVFC; KEVIN SATTLER, OHDVFC; PETE WEAVER, OHDVFC;
Supervisor Hulbert called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
At 7:04 p.m., Ms. Wood motioned to enter into executive session as the Oak Hill Durham Vol. Fire Co. requested
a special meeting with the Durham Town Board to discuss a pending litigation between Oak Hill Durham Vol. Fire
Co. and American Integrity etal., seconded by Mr. Cunningham.
Ms. Wood motioned to adjourn at 7:16 p.m. seconded by Mr. Cunningham.
A REGULAR MEETING, TOWN OF DURHAM, JUNE 15, 2010
A meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Durham, County of Greene and the State of New York was held at the Town
Hall, 7309 State Route 81, East Durham, NY on the 15th day of June 2010.
PRESENT: Gary Hulbert ---- Supervisor
William Carr ---- Councilperson
Jerry Cunningham ---- Councilperson
Linda Sutton ---- Councilperson
Jodi Wood ---- Councilperson
Chris Kohrs ---- Town Clerk
OTHERS PRESENT: Wes Moore-Highway Superintendent; Larry Cooke-Code Enforcement Officer; Tal Rappleyea-Attorney(8:11
p.m.-arrived); Sean Frey-Greene County Legislator; Thomas Sutton-Police Sgt.; Nick Nahas-Historian; David Cunningham-Building
Inspector; Daily Mail-Press; and Greenville Mountain View Pioneer-Press. - seventeen community members
Supervisor Hulbert called the meeting to order at 7:34 p.m. with the pledge to the flag.
Proof of Notice having been furnished, Supervisor Hulbert called the Public Hearing on the Community Development
Grant with Stiefel's Lab/GSK, Inc. and the Town of Durham to order at 7:35 p.m.
Sandy Mathis, Greene County IDA explained Stiefel Laboratories a/k/a GSK would receive approximately $716,000 federal
funding through the state's community renewal program. These funds would be used to change the facility operations
from a soap-manufacturing site to an oral health care manufacturer. The soap manufacturing would shift to a GSK
site in Canada and the their current and only oral health care manufacturing would relocate from Clifton, NJ to
Oak Hill, NY. GSK will invest an additional $56 million in this location to refit the manufacturing. The new
product line will require strong math skills and more automation. Greene County IDA and GSK are committed to working
with the current employees at the Oak Hill site to retrain for the new product line and or to help them secure
employment elsewhere. GSK has committed to maintaining 211 sites at the Oak Hill location to be filled with local
employees and transfers from the Clifton, NJ site.
Additional incentives have been agreed to between GSK and other funding areas such as the Empire State Development
program, NYSERDA, Greene County sales tax on building materials and equipment purchased to make the transition,
property tax freeze (details still to be finalized), Athens Generating Plant Grant etc.
Among their plans are to work close with DEC to enclose the existing wastewater facility and open a new state of
the art wastewater facility.
Comments from the public were addressed. GSK oral health care product, which will transfer up here, will be the
manufacturing of Aqua Fresh Toothpaste; they will maintain a portion of the research and development in their Center
for Excellence. The suggestion was made to approach GSK about assisting with funding and implementation of a town
sewer project. Construction work will be put out to bid, which will open up local job opportunities; specific
details are not yet available.
Mr. Mathis shared that the when the GSK representatives visited the Oak Hill site they were very impressed with
the work ethic of the employees, which was instrumental in the site staying open. GSK is committed to training
the current workforce to adapt to the new product line or to move on to a different line of employment. It is
Mr. Mathis understanding that the chemicals used in manufacturing of toothpaste will not require state or federal
permits, which is significantly different from the current operations. GSK expects to be producing toothpaste
at the Oak Hill site by late summer early fall with the transition completed by 2012.
Mr. Carr read an email from Hannah Connaire regarding noise and visual aesthetics. Mr. Mathis will respond to
Mrs. Connaire's concerns.
All persons desiring to be heard, having been heard, the Hearing was terminated at 8:05 p.m.
Mr. Cunningham motioned to approve the minutes of May 4, 13, and 18, 2010 seconded by Mrs. Sutton, all in favor
motion carried. (5-yeas, Hulbert, Sutton, Cunningham, Carr, Wood)
Supervisor Hulbert reminded everyone of the Troop 42 Scout Dinner on June 19, at the Norton Hill United Methodist
Church, to raise money to fund three Automatic External Defibrillators for the Town Halls of Durham, Greenville
and Rensselaerville.
Legislator Frey reported the sales tax revenue for the county is looking better and is only 2.25% down from last
year. The Legislators will be reviewing the half-year budget and working on the 2011 budget.
Highway Supervisor Moore reported the highway crew has been blacktopping sections of Stone Bridge Road, Mullins
Spur Road and Saybrook Valley Road. They have been working on rebuilding the last section Hillcrest Road over
the past three weeks; will be oiled in stoned over the summer. With the work done last year and this year to build
up Hill Crest, he will have spent approximately $93,000 for 4,100 feet of dirt road, which is less than a mile
of road. He recently learned the State CHIPS program has been enacted and expects to receive $139,000 to use to
finish Stone Bridge Road and some other small projects.
He sent out a quick bid request through the CHIPS program for the paving portion of the Stone Bridge Road project.
Building Inspector Cunningham reported issuing the following permits: demolition-1, new structures-3, addition/alterations-2,
agricultural-2, renewal-1, cc's-7, co's-1.
Code Enforcement Officer Cooke reported conducting twenty-one inspections resulting in no new violations. He issued
five orders to demolish and two existing violations were closed with full compliance being achieved.
He expressed the need for everyone to be vigilant in voicing their concerns over the proposed DEC regulation on
Outdoor Wood Burning units. The time for public comment ends July 2, 2010.
He requested permission to post a legal notice of unsafe buildings on properties owned by Mr. Sharkey located at
1636 Route 145 and Mr. Attenborough located at 4177 Route 145.
Legislator Frey offered comment to the DEC proposed regulation on Outdoor Wood Burning units; the Legislators adopted
a resolution in opposition of said regulation.
Councilman Cunningham offered the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION 2010-08 OPPOSITION TO PROPOSED 6 NYCRR PART 247
REGULATIONS ON OUTDOOR WOOD BOILERS
WHEREAS, the price of home heating fuels has skyrocketed over the last few years for citizens within Greene County;
and
WHEREAS, outdoor wood boilers (OWBs) can provide a cost effective alternative to fossil fuels; and
WHEREAS, OWBs were not made for, and never should have, any solid waste burned in them; and
WHEREAS, no other State has required that existing OWBs be taken out of service; and
WHEREAS, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation in April 2010 published and is currently
soliciting comments on proposed regulation 6 NYCRR Part 247, Outdoor Wood Boilers; and
WHEREAS, the Durham Town Board does not support the requirements in the proposed DEC Part 247 regulations;
WHEREAS, in addition , the Durham Town Board considers Municipal Home Rule a highly valued privilege and believes
that local governments should be free to exercise that authority; this DEC proposal would preempt local home rule,
interfering and removing the ability of local governments to make determinations regarding issues traditionally
handled a the local level; and
WHEREAS, the Durham Town Board gives notice of this opposition to DEC's proposal and considers this a threat to
Home Rule by infringing on the jurisdiction of local municipal decision making;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Durham Town Board hereby supports efforts to protect the use of properly operated
OWBs that are installed and operated properly, and to protect the property rights of those outdoor wood boiler
owners; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Durham Town Board hereby strongly opposes this new proposal and believes that
it should be regulated on a local level consistent with local zoning and land use regulations; and be it further
RESOLVED, that copies of the resolution shall be forwarded to Governor David Paterson, Attorney General Andrew
Cuomo, United States Senator Charles E. Schumer, New York Senator James Seward, Assemblyman Peter Lopez, Assemblyman
Timothy P. Gordon, New York State Association of Towns, and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
Seconded by Councilmember Wood. (Yeas-5, Hulbert, Sutton, Cunningham, Wood, and Carr)
The resolution was thereupon declared adopted June 15, 2010.
Everyone was reminded of the Greene Household County Hazardous Waste Disposal event June 26, 2010.
The board received the judges' reports.
Attorney Rappleyea reported having discussions with the Greene County IDA regarding the site plan review for Stiefel
Laboratories.
Clerk/Collector Kohrs reported $485,932.07 uncollected of the county/town tax warrant.
Historian Nahas announced there would be a program Saturday, June 19 - 10 a.m. at the town hall on Cemetery Preservation,
all are welcome.
Supervisor Hulbert informed the board that vandals damaged the Oak Hill Historic sign in located in the parking
lot of the Oak Hill Kitchen over the weekend. The police are investigating and estimates are being obtained to
have the sign repaired.
Proof of Notice having been furnished, the Public Hearing for the Unsafe Building Ordinance for the collapsed building(s)
located at 983 Cochrane Road, tax map 32.00-1-24 and 7719 Route 81, tax map 21.02-3-9 was called to order at 7:35
p.m. by Supervisor Hulbert.
Code Enforcement Officer asked the board to issue an order to demolish as he has sent the property owners the required
notices and there has been no action taken on their part. He also noted that he has spoken with a private individual
who is willing to tear down the structure at 7719 Route 81 at no expense to the town. He is willing to work with
this individual provided the work can be completed within a reasonable period.
The following person(s) spoke in support of the demolitions:
None
The following person(s) spoke against the demolitions:
None
All persons desiring to be heard, having been heard, the Hearing was terminated at 8:25 p.m.
Mr. Carr motioned to issue an order to demolish the unsafe buildings located at 983 Cochrane Road, tax map 32.00-1-24
and 7719 Route 81, tax map 21.02-3-9, seconded by Mrs. Sutton all in favor motion carried. (5-Yea, Hulbert, Sutton,
Cunningham, Carr, Wood)
Tal will provide the procedure form to ensure the proper steps are followed from the town to the county.
Mrs. Sutton motioned to approve the request from the Michael J Quill Irish Sports and Cultural Centre for a school
bus and driver to be leased from the Cairo-Durham Central School District for Irish Arts Week July 12-17, to be
paid for by Michael J Quill, seconded by Mr. Cunningham, all in favor motion carried. (5-Yea, Hulbert, Sutton,
Cunningham, Carr, Wood)
Supervisor Hulbert read the following Proclamation:
Whereas, Wesley Moore has dedicated thirty-seven years to a career at the Durham Highway Department serving as
Highway Superintendent for twenty-two years; and
Whereas, Wesley Moore has announced his plans to retire on
June 23, 2010 and is being honored by friends and co-workers, who are deeply appreciative of his many contributions
to the community through the years;
Whereas, Wesley Moore's dedicated interest and devotion to duty has had a valuable effect on the efficiency and
morale of his
co-workers, and we wish to extend to him our sincere appreciation
for his outstanding performance of duty; and
Whereas, he will be missed both professionally and as a friend,
Now, therefore the Durham Town Board and residents appreciates his many years of dedicated service, and extend
to Wesley Moore,
his wife, Cindy, and his family our best wishes for his continued success in his life's pursuits.
Mr. Cunningham moved to appoint Alan Beechert Highway Superintendent effect June 23, 2010 seconded by Mrs. Sutton,
all in favor motion carried. (5-Yea, Hulbert, Sutton, Cunningham, Carr, Wood)
Ms. Wood motioned to appoint Joe Van Holsteyn as Deputy Highway Superintendent effective June 23, 2010 seconded
by Mr. Carr all in favor motion carried. (5-Yea, Hulbert, Sutton, Cunningham, Carr, Wood)
Mrs. Sutton motioned to approve the transfer of $4,000 from General Surplus to A8020.400 Planning, Contractual,
seconded by Mr. Carr, all in favor motion carried. (5-Yea, Hulbert, Sutton, Cunningham, Carr, Wood)
Ms. Wood motioned to hold a public hearing for the Unsafe Building Ordinance for the collapsed building(s) located
at 4177 Route 145 and 1636 Route 145, seconded by Mr. Carr, all in favor motion carried. (5-Yea, Hulbert, Sutton,
Cunningham, Carr, Wood)
The flowers have been hung along Route 145 through the hamlet of East Durham, Wes Moore will water them and Jonas
Bogardus will be his back up. He needs volunteers for this weekend as both he and Jonas have prior engagements.
Mrs. Sutton and Ms. Wood volunteered.
The board reviewed and approved the following bills to be paid:
Abstract #1010, consisting of 2010 Vouchers #429 through #448 for $332,578.29 broken down as follows:
General Funds $ 1,375.73
Trust & Agency $ 31,202.56
Abstract #1011, consisting of 2010 Vouchers #449 through #523 for $130,552.21 broken down as follows:
General Funds $ 40,789.33
Highway Funds $ 89,028.87
Street Lighting $ 734.01
Ms. Wood motioned to adjourn at 8:59 p.m. seconded by Mrs. Sutton.
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