REGULAR MEETING
MAY 9, 2006
GALWAY TOWN HALL

Supervisor Hargrave called the meeting to order at 7:31 p.m. The following Town Board Members were present:

PRESENT: Supervisor George Hargrave Councilman Michael Tillson Councilwoman Susan Sutch Councilman William Topper Councilman George Weed

OTHERS PRESENT: A. Oakley; D. Fontanella; P. Keeler, Historian; D. Balbian; M. Concilla, Code Enforcement Officer; T. Killeen, Assessor; D. Costanzo, Highway Superintendent & M. DeFoe, Town Clerk. S. Hatala arrived late at 7:45 p.m.

Pledge to the Flag

A motion was made by Councilwoman Sutch, seconded by Councilman Weed to approve the minutes of the April 11, 2006 meetings as submitted.
All ayes. MOTION CARRIED

Communications – Town Clerk read legal notice placed in Daily Gazette on 4/17/06 advising public that Town Clerk’s Office only would be closed April 24^th thru 26^th to allow the Town Clerk and Deputy Town Clerk to attend a training seminar. Town Clerk thanked Highway Superintendent, David Costanzo for helping one of the Town’s seniors get a bird out of their house. Town Board received copies of the following correspondence: Assessor’s Report dated May 9, 2006; Building Department permit report covering 4/1/06 to 5/1/06; letter from Joyce LaComb resident of Corinth requesting surrounding town support to prevent trash industry in their town; contract from Town of Charlton for shared highway services; Saratoga County Planning Department correspondence regarding General Municipal Law Section 239-nn Amendment; & Dog Control Officer’s report for the month of April, 2006.

Privilege of the Floor - None.

COMMITTEE REPORTS: Historian - Phyllis Keeler advised that the 4^th State Marker will be placed on Consaul Road for the Town of Galway. The marker reads as follows: Stimson Cemetery also known in 1878 as Jersey Hill Cemetery Gen. Earl Stimson 1776-1847 First Burial Nov. 18, 1792 Latest Burial March 9, 1875; Purchased by Galway Preservation Society 2006. Phyllis then read a Proclamation to establish June 16, 2006 as Joseph Henry Day in Town of Galway and requested that Town Board make a motion to endorse this proclamation. Library – Alissa Oakley stated that Library web site is being redesigned. Sara has been working on summer reading program for June entitled “Books & Treasures”. Circulation for April was 1,803, with four new library cards issued. Library will host a perennial plant exchange this Saturday the 13^th starting at 2:00 p.m. Story Quilt Project will receive a plaque & cash prize award from Southern Adirondack Library System. The Library will be hiring a student Library Page for four hours a week during July & August, this will be posted. NYS has required that Library prepare a brief summary of previous year activity, Alissa gave Town Board Members a copy of this summary. Assessor – Tracy Killeen had information for the board to review on the 2^nd half of the new homes list he discussed last month. Public Safety – No Report. Property – No Report. Buildings & Grounds – Councilman Topper stated that he talked with Environmental Design Partnership regarding playing field project. Comments from engineering office indicate that about 50’ of the proposed parking lot expansion is wet, so they will stop at that area. Hopefully, project will be ready for Town Board to act on for next month. Supervisor Hargrave welcomed Councilman Topper back after his illness & hospital confinement. Public Affairs – Councilwoman Sutch stated that the County held their last Green Infrastructure Plan Meeting on Monday, May 8^th. They have scheduled the following series of public workshops: May 18^th at Moreau Community Center; May 24^th at Edinburg Community Center; June 1^st at Charlton Presbyterian Church (to be confirmed) & June 8^th at Halfmoon Senior Center, all workshops being held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Draft & colored maps can be viewed at the Behan Planning website: www.behanplanning.com. The Galway Open Space Committee will hold a meeting at the school on June 8^th from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. with many speakers lined up to discuss what other town are doing ; how they are handling this issue and resources available to people. Highway – Dave Costanzo, Highway Superintendent stated that the Town of Broadalbin has contacted him and advised that they will be paving Hooseville Road this year. A section of Hooseville Road is in the town of Galway. Broadalbin will have road paved, put down shoulder material and pave road, Galway will pay for their portion of material and help out with a truck or two the day they pave. Highway Department activity for April consisted of the following: Sweeping town roads of winter sand. Removal of snow plows and related equipment. Spring maintenance of heavy equipment to prepare for upcoming paving & summer road maintenance. Maintenance on ball field. Made 220 loads of sand for water stockpile. Hauled stone for seals. Repaired washout on Greens Corner Road. Replaced culvert on Stanton Road. Ditched & graveled Saw Mill Road. Ditched lower end of Perth Road. Clean up of Town wide wing cuts. They have the following items scheduled for May: Begin the reconstruction of Kania Road; screen gravel and put seals on Donnan Road & Crane Road. County & Town – Supervisor Hargrave stated on a town level, the Town Board has been working on the zoning. They have had about 7-8 workshops to date and have about 3-4 more planned. Supervisor Hargrave is confident that Town will be happy with what they bring before them. On a county level, meeting tomorrow will address funding of water project. This will be financed thru the Saratoga Water Authority, which will obtain the bonding, county will act as co-pay and users will pay for water. County will honor Ted Turek on May 16^th at 2:30 p.m., a deceased Veteran. Veterans’ Moving Wall will come to Malta June 8^th thru 12^th, volunteers are needed.

LIAISON REPORTS: Planning Board – Councilman Tillson stated that Paul Lent received approval for a special use permit to run a horse boarding business at 85 Featherbed Lane. Donna Sowle/Ella Sherman received final approval for a 3-lot subdivision on the property right above the Town Hall on Route 147 & Route 29. Mary Jane Armer received final approval for a 2-lot subdivision on Birchton Road. Gerry McKenna was back in with proposal for Route 147 next to Legion Hall. He is currently looking at creating 15 lots, again in a cul-de-sac but more of a “U” shape. Only one entrance/exit on Route 147. Councilman Tillson feels in the end this project will have very low impact on Town because lot sizes are quite large. There were several lot line adjustments, Norman Gervais, Tom Eletto & Mark Kindinger. David Disarro was in with a conceptual 4-lot proposal for Perth Road. ZBA – Councilman Weed stated that Ruth Gau received approval for a side lot variance on her property located at 9462 Hart’s Point “B” Road. ZBA also discussed the previously approved Trosan variance; board may request to review this application again. Senior Citizens – Councilwoman Sutch stated she was unable to attend either senior meeting in April. They had a good article in newsletter & have many trips planned for this year. Youth – Councilman Topper thanked Supervisor Hargrave for attending Youth meeting in his absence. Family Fun Day will be June 17^th here at Town Hall from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Theme this year is “Saratoga County Kids Strong Links to the Future!” Councilman Topper encouraged everyone to attend. Swim program will take place at the Girl Scout Camp on Alexander Road from 8/14/06 thru 8/25/06. The Rifle Team had another successful year. They participated in the Olympic 3 Position Air Rifle competition at RPI and Colleen Tillson shot an amazing 578 points out of a possible 600. The note worthy thing about the Galway team is they have no air rifles of their own; they borrow from RPI for competition and continue to place in the top. In the parent/youth end of the year shoot off the youth came out ahead. Councilman Tillson stated that in that parent/youth shoot out he beat Colleen. Youth Commission is always looking for volunteers interested in helping out with programs. Summer Youth Theater program will be doing auditions for their summer performance on June 6^th. This is a program for youth ages 12-18.

MOTIONS AND RESOLUTIONS

Councilman Topper made a motion, seconded by Councilman Tillson to approve the General Abstract of Vouchers (A) dated 4/12/06 thru 5/9/06 for a total of $6,963.85.
All ayes. MOTION CARRIED

Councilman Tillson made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Sutch to approve the General Abstract of Vouchers (B) dated 4/12/06 thru 5/5/06 for a total of $6,693.15.
All ayes. MOTION CARRIED

Councilwoman Sutch made a motion, seconded by Councilman Topper to approve the Highway Abstract of Vouchers (DA) dated 4/12/06 thru 5/3/06 for a total of $7,457.47.
All ayes. MOTION CARRIED

Councilman Topper made a motion, seconded by Councilman Tillson to approve the Highway Abstract of Vouchers (DB) dated 4/12/06 thru 5/3/06 for a total of $8,288.63.
All ayes. MOTION CARRIED

Supervisor Hargrave stated that there was no SL Abstract of Vouchers.

Councilman Topper made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Sutch to approve the Supervisor’s Operating Statement for the period ending 4/30/06.
All ayes. MOTION CARRIED

RESOLUTION # 26-2006 – Adoption of Employee Handbook. On a motion of Councilman Topper, seconded by Councilman Tillson the following resolution was ADOPTED: AYES – 5 NAYS – 0
WHEREAS the Town Board of the Town of Galway is desirous to develop and implement an Employee Handbook detailing the various personnel policies and procedures, employee benefits, compliance policies, and other pertinent information governing employment related matters; and

WHEREAS the Town Board has retained AMTEK PS, Public Sector Human Resource Consulting to assist with the development of the Town’s Employee Handbook; and

BE IT RESOLVED this 9^th day of May, 2006 that said document be adopted as the official Employee Handbook of the Town of Galway; and

FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED that the Town of Galway Employee Handbook shall be distributed, with signed acknowledgment, to all Town officials and employees.
All ayes. MOTION CARRIED

RESOLUTION # 27-2006 – Proclamation honoring Theodore Turek. Supervisor Hargrave stated that County will proclaim May 16^th dedicated to the memory of Theodore Turek. Supervisor Hargrave would like this done on a town level also. On a motion of Councilwoman Sutch, seconded by Councilman Weed the following resolution was ADOPTED: AYES – 5 NAYS – 0
WHEREAS, the freedom, security and prosperity that the American people have enjoyed throughout the history of our nation have been preserved due to the heroism and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in our armed forces; and,

WHEREAS, the Galway Town Board wishes to honor and memorialize the lives and courageous deeds of members of the armed forces who have served distinction in the defense of our nation; and,

WHEREAS, THEODORE TUREK served in the United States Army in World War II as a Staff Sergeant and was a member of the 744^th Ordinance Light Maintenance Company of the 44^th Infantry Division; and,

WHEREAS, THEODORE TUREK fought in the Normandy landing and participated in combat across Northern France which liberated that nation, fought in the Rhineland and in Central Europe, and was awarded three citations for his bravery in the Battle of the Bulge; and,

WHEREAS, THEODORE TUREK was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Ribbon, Bronze Star Medal, European African Middle Eastern Service Ribbon and three Bronze Service Stars; and,

WHEREAS, THEODORE TUREK attended the Galway High School; and

WHEREAS, THEODORE TUREK was employed by the General Electric in Schenectady in the Gas Turbine Division retiring in 1983; and

WHEREAS, THEODORE TUREK was a member of the Galway Legion Post #146, VFW Post 8690 in Broadalbin, the Galway Senior Citizens and the Fiddlers of Schuylerville; and

WHEREAS, THEODORE TUREK risked his life in the defense of the principles of freedom and democracy for which our nation stands; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting that the heroic service and sacrifice of THEODORE TUREK, for his nation and community be recognized and remembered and his memory be honored; now, therefore, be it

PROCLAIMED that the 16^th day of May, 2006 is hereby dedicated to the memory of THEODORE TUREK, in grateful recognition by the Galway Town Board on behalf of all the citizens of the Town of the service and sacrifice made by him in the defense of his country.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the Town of Galway this 16^th day of May 2006.

_____________________________
George J. Hargrave
Town of Galway Supervisor
All ayes MOTION CARRIED

RESOLUTION # 28-2006 – Authorization for Supervisor to sign contract with County for reimbursement on water system installed at Town Hall. Supervisor Hargrave stated that the Town was required by the Department of Health to install a water purification system at the Town Hall. This contract would allow the County to reimburse the Town 75% of the instillation price of that system. On a motion of Councilman Tillson, seconded by Councilman Topper the following resolution was ADOPTED:
AYES – 5 NAYS – 0
RESOLVED that the Galway Town Board authorize the Supervisor to sign a contract with the County Department for the Aging to reimburse the Town $5,761.00, 75% of the cost of the water purification system installed at Town Hall.
All ayes. MOTION CARRIED

Supervisor discussed the latest proposal he had received for miscellaneous work needed at Town Hall. To go further on project would require work to be bid out, since both quotes came in over the $10,000.00 requirement. Board went into discussion regarding purchasing one generator for all three building. Supervisor Hargrave stated that this complex is considered an emergency site for our community and we need to prepare for an emergency with the installation of this generator. Supervisor Hargrave further stated for audience that the cost of these repairs and generator would not have any affect on taxes. Dave Fontanella questioned how this would have no affect on budget. Supervisor Hargrave stated that funding would come from funds the town receives from sales tax.

RESOLUTION # 29-2006 – Increase temporary laborer pay from $8.50 per hour to $9.50 per hour. Supervisor Hargrave stated that change would need to be made to Town Policy # 2 if approved. Highway Superintendent, David Costanzo stated that there are two temporary laborers that work for about three months in the summer. On a motion of Councilwoman Sutch, seconded by Councilman Topper the following resolution was ADOPTED: AYES – 5 NAYS – 0
RESOLVED that the Galway Town Board adjust the temporary laborer salary in Town Policy # 2 from $8.50 per hour to $9.50 per hour.
All ayes. MOTION CARRIED

Supervisor Hargrave stated that he was authorized by Town Board to look into the purchase of a folding machine at a price not to exceed $3,000.00. Supervisor Hargrave stated the cheapest folding machine he could find would cost $7,400.00 and this required booklets to be put in by hand. He checked with Post Office; the Town of Providence; School; Cooperative Extension & Saratoga County Print Shop and they recommend sending the newsletter as a flat. To send newsletter as a flat with no folding or seal it would cost $140.00 more per mailing. Board went into discussion regarding this.

RESOLUTION #30-2006 – Town Board endorsement of Joseph Henry Proclamation. On a motion of Councilwoman Sutch, seconded by Councilman Weed the following resolution was ADOPTED: AYES – 5 NAYS – 0
RESOLVED that the Galway Town Board endorse the following Proclamation Honoring Joseph Henry:

TOWN OF GALWAY
PROCLIMATION
ESTABLISHING JUNE 16, 2006 AS JOSEPH HENRY DAY
IN THE TOWN OF GALWAY
SARATOGA COUNTY
STATE OF NEW YORK

WHEREAS, the Joseph Henry Committee of the Joseph Henry Elementary School of the Galway Central School District are sponsoring a day long celebration in honor of Joseph Henry, namesake of the school, and,

WHEREAS, the Town Board recognizes and appreciates the inventive contributions of this great scientist in the fields of magnetism, magnetic induction theory and telegraph, and,

WHEREAS, the Board further recognizes his outstanding contribution to the world by organizing the systematic distribution of scientific technology as the first secretary and operating executive of the Smithsonian Institution from 1846 to 1879, and,

WHEREAS, the Board also notes that Joseph Henry organized the first nationwide weather observation and reporting system and had the foresight to link this with the newly invented telegraph, and,

WHEREAS, we may take great pride that this man was born and raised in our own Capital District area, lived in Galway during his early years, and,

WHEREAS, Joseph Henry received his elementary education in the early forerunner of the school here, now bearing his name, be it now, and therefore,

RESOLVED that this Town Board hereby designates Friday, June 16, 2006 as JOSEPH HENRY DAY in the Town of Galway and urges and calls upon all citizens to recognize and honor this occasion in a fitting and appropriate manner.

Supervisor George Hargrave
Council Members Michael Tillson
William Topper
Susan Sutch
George Weed
All ayes. MOTION CARRIED

Other Business – Councilman Tillson requested a letter of Commendation be sent to the Fire Department & Ambulance for their emergency response to an accident Councilman Tillson came upon on his way home after last month’s meeting on April 11^th. Supervisor Hargrave stated he would send letter of thanks. Supervisor Hargrave stated that he and Councilman Weed have begun negotiation with Fire Department for contract.

RESOLUTION # 31-2006 – Authorization for Town Clerk to purchase perennial plants for area around mail box at Town Hall. Town Clerk stated that every year she purchases annual plants for the area around mail box; she would like to purchase perennial plants this year. On a motion of Councilwoman Sutch, seconded by Councilman Topper the following resolution was ADOPTED: AYES – 5 NAYS – 0
RESOLVED that the Galway Town Board authorize the Town Clerk to purchase perennial plants for the area around the mail box at Town Hall in an amount not to exceed $500.00 to be charged to A1220.4 Supervisor CE.
All ayes. MOTION CARRIED

Supervisor Hargrave will talk to Cornell Cooperative Extension, Master Gardner regarding problem with tree growth in circle. Supervisor Hargrave stated that the County luncheon for seniors was very well attended, Senator Bruno attended luncheon. Meals are served daily here at Town Hall, Monday’s thru Friday’s for Senior Citizens; cost of meal is $2.00 donation. Phyllis Keeler expressed word of appreciation for progress on Historian’s office. Steve Hatala resident of Cruthers Road had a couple of concerns to discuss with Town Board. Steve believes a house is being built off the abandoned end of Cruthers Road by Jockey Street. He is not sure how this access is being done since property reverted back to property owners on each side of road when road was abandoned. Mr. Hatala also had complaint regarding condition of Cruthers Road. He stated that road was paved originally and he would like to see it paved again. He felt neighbor is damaging dirt road by riding horses on road. He would like to see these items addressed. Highway Superintendent, Costanzo stated that Cruthers Road was one of many dirt roads in the town; it is not on the plan for paving this year. He will keep an eye on road condition and york rake again as needed. Mr. Hatala was happy with the last repair made by Superintendent Costanzo but felt neighbor was destroying this by riding horses continually on road. Question also arose regarding horse droppings on road. Supervisor Hargrave stated that Galway was an agricultural community and there was nothing that could be done regarding that issue. Mr. Hatala reiterated his concern with getting road paved. Superintendent Costanzo stated that paving plan would have to be looked at to see when Cruthers Road could be addressed.

Councilman Weed made a motion, seconded by Councilman Topper to adjourn the meeting at 8:48 p.m.
All ayes. MOTION CARRIED

Respectfully submitted,

Margaret L. DeFoe
Town Clerk