Town Board Regular Meeting – February 2021

The Town of Rochester Town Board held the Regular Meeting on February 4, 2021 at 6:30pm via
Livestream Broadcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg7ykop50cWmqPFUpgDjRSQ
Listening Dial in Number +1 929 205 6099 Meeting ID: 818 3456 7947 Password: 560286

CALL TO ORDER- PLEDGE TO THE FLAG

PRESENT:

Councilwoman Erin Enouen Councilwoman Bea Haugen-Depuy
Councilman Chris Hewitt Councilman Adam Paddock
Supervisor Michael Baden Town Clerk Kathleen Gundberg
Town Attorney Marylou Christiana

COMMUNITY RECOGNITION:
Resolution # 73-2021:

A Motion was made by Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy;

Whereas, on January 26, 2021 first responders from the Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad responded to a call during a severe snowstorm to the Accord KwikMart parking lot for a person in labor; and

Whereas, the mother gave birth in the KwikMart parking lot and experienced complications for both mother and baby and the baby required CPR; and

Whereas, the quick-thinking actions and training of the volunteer personnel resulted in mother and baby doing fine; and

Therefore, the Town of Rochester Town Board wishes to extend recognition to the Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad members who assisted the family in their time of need.
Second: Councilman Hewitt

5-0aye, motion carried
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD:

Dear Supervisor and Town Board,

I want to thank the town board for the care that is being taken at the transfer station to ensure that the new rules are being followed especially concerning recycling of plastics.
I do have to say that I really miss the free bin as it was a great way to recycle and to keep the items off the roads.
Recently, since the new changes , I have had to for the first time drive up on top to surrender my bags. It was very muddy, full of holes and up on top there were pot holes full of water. It became very congested with cars as we all tried to navigate the conditions.
I am asking the town board to use town resources to fix the road, and potholes. To also check for any old nails as unbagged CD was dumped previously up there.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,

Barbara Fornal

Dear Ms. Gundberg, Supervisor Baden and Town Board Members:

We trust that you read the Planning Board’s review and summary of operations as submitted to the Board in concert with our joint strategy meeting with the Zoning Board of Appeals on January 25th, 2021. The Planning Board managed 45 applications in 2020. Some were straightforward lot line improvements. Many others were and continue to be complex and multivariate subdivisions, site plan reviews, and special use permits. In our strategy meeting, Planning Board members were in consensus that (a) our meetings need greater structure; and (b) the Planning Board needs to engage ‘professionals’ earlier, more readily, and in a more codified fashion in the application review process. This is consistent with best practices as outlined by the Department of State, various Planning Federations, the Association of Town sand other advisory bodies and is common practice in other Ulster County Towns. The Board was in consensus as well that Planning Board meetings, reviews, and office management must be independent, as stated in New York General Municipal Law, from intervention by the Supervisor or Town Board Members, a blurring of duties which is not allowed. Independence, codification of the process, and the use of experts in relevant fields insures that Planning Board members are agnostic sand provides consistency over time in application review when relying on volunteer lay persons to make and write decisions. Under § 140-63, Fees the Planning Board is:•(1)“empowered to charge an applicant the reasonable and necessary expenses incurred […] for professional fees incurred […] as a result of professional work required to be performed on behalf of any of said Board […] as a result of the filing of an application seeking approval by that Board. “[…] and [the table of fees] from time to time [may] modified or updated upon recommendation of the Planning Board.” AND
•(2) “Creation of an escrow account may be required simultaneously with the filing of an application for approval of a development and prior to the commencement of the review of the application[…]”BUT•(9)“The amount of the initial deposit for the various developments covered by this section shall be as set forth in a schedule of deposits established from time to time, by resolution of the Town Board. Said schedule shall remain in effect and shall apply to all applicants and developers until amended or revised by subsequent resolution.” Therefore, pursuant to § 140-63 Fees, the Planning Board requests that Town Board retain a Planning Consultant additional to our current Engineering Consultant, CPL that shall be retained for engineering consultation. Retention of separate Architectural, Environmental and Landscaping Consultant(s)would further be recommended. Ideally, consultant choices would be vetted by the PB, ECC and the HPC, as well as the Town Board. The PB has some suggested consultants in mind. The Planning Board(as per § 140-63 Fees (B) (1)& (2))is further requesting by resolution of the Town Board the addition to the table of fees an escrow amount(account)of $500.00“that may be required simultaneously with the filing of an application for approval of a development and prior to the commencement of the review of the application as per code. This “initial review by professionals” escrow would be determined after the mandatory pre-application, and would not apply to lot line improvements or natural subdivisions ,thus not initially burdening applicants. On our part, for codification of the review process, the Planning Board’s initial changes are:•treating all initial applications as pre-applications (with the exception of Lot Line Improvements and Natural Subdivision),•implementing a standardization of meetings’ review processes(attached addendum),•presenting said standardized review process to applicants at the beginning of each meeting, •refining the application checklist into a more manageable and electronic and paper tabular form, •creating an electronic application tracking system,•creating a file management and coding system for all documents submitted by applicants. New York General Municipal Law empowers a Town’s Planning Board to implement a Town’s Comprehensive Plan through its land use laws. The Town of Rochester has undergone a great deal of change and evolution since the 2006 Comprehensive Plan was adopted: •an estimated 15% plus of our housing stock is in place short term rentals—only surpassed in the region by Hunter (30% plus) and Woodstock (17% plus)1.The Short Term Rental business of Airbnb did not even exist in 2006•Development Pressure is increasing exponentially2. Approximately30% of the Town’s housing stock has turned over in the past two yearsalone3.This has dramatically altered the demographics of our town even more toward second homes and rental homes.1Source: Air DNA and Granicus Airbnb generated $24.4 million in revenue in Ulster County bookings, nearly triple that of any of the other 55 counties north of New York City. Ulster County had double the number of Airbnb guests (149,800) and nearly double the number of listings (2,500 listings among 1,800 hosts) of any other county.2https://therivernewsroom.com/urban-removal-kingston-housing-crisis/https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/cico.12429“The Racialized “Brooklynization” of New York’s Hudson Valley”3New York Association of Realtors and NYDATABASES.com
•Longstanding generational farms and properties are transitioning to the next generation which is selling and subdividing .Farms, forests and vistas shall be permanently lost. We could continue, but we believe that you know the statistics. For your Planning Board to be effective in the implementation of the aforementioned, we need(1) a Planning Consultant and preferably an Environmental, an Architectural and a Landscaping consultant as well and (2) an ‘initial professional review of $500.00 added to the table of fees. Please honour our requests in a timely fashion.
Sincerely, The Town of Rochester Planning Board

Attorney Christiana stated that she supports this and has seen it in other Towns.

Councilwoman Enouen stated that she supports things going before professional services to make it an easier process.

Robert Kilpert: spoke of a document submitted to the County Clerk’s office regarding how to improve zoning in respect to 5 G roll out. An organization that I belong to “ truth sayer’s forum’ who have been instrumental in identifying problem areas associated with technology. I would like to see this information be generated to the citizens throughout Town with an awareness campaign. Many believe technology issues are invasive & discomforting but there are a lot of knowledgeable resources out there helping with using safe technology devices. I want a safe community and would like the Board to get involved as well.

Rick Jones in regards to the letter Kate read from the Planning Board, we have been working on this for the past couple days. We want to have a process in place that doesn’t depend on people specifically when a consultant is needed. CPL has been great to work with on engineer like studies. We need a planner for larger subdivisions, organize, apply regulations to living breathing larger subdivisions. We know a concern is cost but we were hoping this process would be more for larger projects. The Planning Board puts their best foot forward but the availability of a planner would make the process go quicker and hopefully cover any environmental processes. Maren puts in an incredible amount of time but a professional planner should be made available at the expense of the applicant. The downside of not having a planner could result in us missing some points, causing applications further delays. We have practical knowledge but someone in the business of doing this would be appropriate at this time. We petition the Town Board to acknowledge this and help us to do the job.

Zorian Pinsky stated he wanted to follow up on the letter as well. The Town Comprehensive plan is due for an update and we should start the prepping now for when things get better. There have been many changes in Town and it’s time to update.

ATTORNEY FOR THE TOWN REPORT:

The Court ruled in favor of the Town of Rochester in the Catalpa Lane/ Hoots case. The ZBA did a good job. A chance for an appeal can be done by Mid-February.

TOWN CLERK/ TAX COLLECTOR REPORT:

RESIGNATION:

Rebecca Paddock-Stange submitted her resignation as provisional zoning coordinator.
Town Clerk Gundberg wished her all the best on her next journey! Becky has been a true asset to the Town of Rochester and will be greatly missed!

TAX COLLECTOR :

During the month of January the following taxes were collected;
$ 5,327,869.51- total collected
$ 3,325,551.91- personal check payments
$ 218,281.72 – on line payments ( $ 122,475.96 e-checks, $95,805.76 c/c)
$ 65,661.40- cash payments
$ 1,718,374.48- escrow payments

The Tax Warrant to the Town in the amount of $ 2,719,215.23 has been satisfied and turned over to the Town.
The remaining balance to be collected is $ 2,255,527.39
BIG THANK YOU to my staff for all they do!!

HIGHWAY SUPT. REPORT:

Supervisor Baden Thanked the Highway Department for all their work during the last couple storms.

SUPERVISOR’S REPORT:

January 2021 report – Filed with the Town Clerk

January 2021 Financials
Revenue
Receipts received from the Town Clerk’s office $27,107.41

Expenditures

Abstract 13-2020
General Fund $38,078.96
Highway Fund $9,204.74
Street Lighting Fund $328.31
Grant Fund $43.63

Abstract 1-20201
General Fund $155,751.99
Highway Fund $200,308.99
Street Lighting Fund $101.39
Grant Fund $54.80

SUPERVISOR’S UPDATE/ CORRESPONDENCE REPORT:

Monthly Correspondence :
The Governor’s proposed budget for 2022 reflects a 20% decrease in AIM funding which if goes through would be approximately a $ 4,400 decrease to the Town revenue.
A resident correspondence thanking the Board for the great staff at the Transfer Station.
Assessor Report: From Assessor Mike Dunham: New Construction: started to review the status of open building permits. I will be inspecting properties and updating our records and assessments as necessary. All properties are assessed as of their status as of March 1, 2021.
Exemption renewal applications: we will start calling property owners to remind them that their renewal applications are due by March 1, 2021 We have also started to contact senior citizens to inform them that they do not need to file renewals unless their income has decreased from last year. Based on a review of sales by myself and the state we will be able to maintain an equalization rate of 100% for the 2021 roll without having to change or trend any assessments.
COVID-19 Report: To date there have been 80 positive cases in the Town of Rochester, 4 fatalities, 242 confirmed. The numbers in the county are going down last looked 2,400 active cases.
NY Rising – Alligerville Firehouse update:
Bids were opened on 1/25/21. We are over budget so the team is looking at reductions to the project

DEPT. UPDATES/ LIAISON REPORTS/ TOWN BOARD MEMBER TIME:

Councilman Hewitt: ECC: watershed park presentation update was presented to the ECC. They are eager to volunteer and want to help in any way possible.
Councilwoman Enouen: ZBA: a copy of the 2020 year in review was submitted to the Board.
The Stone Ridge Library has 238 memberships still available for Town residents. Digital memberships are also available. You can apply by phone or email.
Transfer Station: the staff is continuing to work towards improvements. There has been a lot of positive feedback with Kris. We are looking into getting high visibility wear for personnel. Some concerns of the size of the office shed also being used as the breakroom have been addressed. We are going to look into cleaning out the garage and making that the break room. There’s also concerns of the leech field causing issues with the bathroom that needs to be addressed.
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy: Court: We are ready to go with the audit of the Court files but because of COVID we are trying to remain cautious and find alternative locations to do the reconciliation.
Councilman Paddock: Park Equipment: We are excited to looking into the 5 approved NY vendors on playground equipment.
Constabulary:
The Constabulary answered 8direct calls for service and other duties in January of 2021.These included:•4Neighbor to Neighbor and Quality of Life Complaints•2Resident Traffic Complaints (Whitfield Rd., Upr. Whitfield Rd., Lwr. WhitfieldRd.)•2Environmental Complaints, (Lake View Rd. and Queens Hwy.)•2Building Department Violations•0New Court Cases Opened*•27Court Proceedings Remain Open*•0Court Proceedings Closed*(Due to COVID-19 Court Closures, Latest Numbers are Unavailable) Interesting Occurrences: During this month, complaints regarding trespasses on residents’ properties are down Complaints regarding garbage being dumped on private properties and on several local roads have been ongoing. Neighbor to Neighbor complaints have decreased this month with all of them being defused successfully and without further incident. Some are ongoing. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we continue to have limited direct contact with complainants with a proportional increase in direct phone calls.

BOARD MEMBER TIME:

Councilwoman Enouen stated now that she has 1 year as a board member completed, she feels it would be helpful to have a Special Board meeting with the Town Attorney, our HR Representative sooner than later to figure out our roll as liaisons, personnel issues, employment practices and performances.

Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy stated she would like to see Kris considered a department head so he can handle issues with staff at the Transfer Station. Also has the Town considered having a vaccine location in the Town of Rochester?

Supervisor Baden stated that the vaccine distribution is controlled by the County the Town has nothing to do with it.

Councilwoman Enouen stated that she was inspired by the short-term rental process. We received a lot of positive feedback and would like to see us move forward with the re-scheduling of the Comp Plan public hearing.

Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy stated that she urges the Board to wait until we can meet in public.

Councilman Hewitt stated that we’ve had huge success with the short-term rentals why wouldn’t we have it with the Comp Plan?

Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy stated that it is a horse of a different color.

Supervisor Baden asked Attorney Christiana for guidance on the letters submitted for public comment were withdrawn. There was information that was shared that would be valuable in discussion moving forward.

Attorney Christiana stated that residents have the right to withdraw their comments especially since the hearing did not take place.

Councilman Paddock stated that he motions to move forward with the public hearing its irresponsible of the Board not to hear from the public at this point.

The Board agreed to discuss it next week.

DISCUSSIONS:

FIRE ALARM BID:
Supervisor Baden stated 6 bids were received. He reached out to our Fire Inspector to review and get feedback before the Board makes a final decision.

PLANS FOR OPERATIONS IN THE EVENT OF A DECLARED PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY INVLOVING A COMMUNICABLE DISEASE:

Supervisor Baden stated that the Clerk’s office wasn’t listed as essential workers but that will be corrected. The Board agreed much of the plan seemed to be COVID specific. Attorney Christiana stated that she thought the draft the Board was currently reviewing has since had changes made. Supervisor Baden stated he would check with Michael Richardson and the Board can review it at next week’s meeting.

PARK PAVILION POLICY:

The Board reviewed the policy that Supervisor Baden created for the Pavilion rental. The Board discussed insurance liabilities. The Board discussed the price of $ 25.00 per hour. Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy stated that she felt it was pricey. She suggested a hardship waiver for those who couldn’t afford it and suggested $ 10 per hour with a $ 100 cap. Councilwoman Enouen stated that the burden shouldn’t fall on all taxpayers because the rental does utilize Town resources so a cap or a graduated fee structure is understandable but we don’t want to make it unaffordable.

RESOLUTIONS:

Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy stated, ‘I can’t stay connected. I switched rooms tonight and can’t seem to stay connected. There are 7 pages to the agenda and still only on page 2 after two hours. I certainly feel like what we have to do is important but we can’t sit on a topic for 45 minutes repeating ourselves we need to use common sense. I can’t stay connected, I’ll be at the next meeting scheduled for the 11th you can go on without me, you don’t want to hear what I have to say anyway.” Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy signed off at 8:22pm.

Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy left the meeting at 8:22pm.

ACTION ON MINUTES:
Resolution # 74-2021:

A Motion was made by Councilwoman Enouen The Town Board accepts the minutes of the January 4, 2021 Organizational Meeting, January 7, 2021 Regular Meeting, January 14, 2021 Special Meeting, and January 28, 2021 Workshop meetings as amended.
Second: Councilman Paddock

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

ACCEPTANCE OF A DONATION:
Resolution # 75-2021:

A Motion was made by Councilman Hewitt that the Town of Rochester accepts a donation of $93.13 from St. Pauly’s Textile, Inc.
Second: Councilman Paddock

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

CREATION OF BUDGET CODE/ STIPEND/CHANGE IN WORK HOURS:
Resolution # 76-2021:

A Motion was made by Supervisor Baden that the Town Board authorizes the Budget Officer to
1. Create General Fund Budget Line A1345.100, Purchasing, Personal Services and to fund such budget line in the amount of $2,880.00. (+$2,880)
2. Increase the amount budgeted for General Fund A1220.112, Supervisor Office, Personal Services from $33,670 to $38,470. (+$4,800)
3. Decrease the amount budgeted for General Fund A9060.800, Employee Benefits, Health and Medical Insurance from $280,725 to $273,045. (-$7680.00)

The Town Board authorizes a stipend of $60 per week be paid in compensation to the Confidential Secretary to the Supervisor/Bookkeeper for coordinating all general fund purchasing of supplies and materials.
The Town of Rochester Town Board authorizes the Town Supervisor to increase the work hours for the Confidential Secretary to the Supervisor/Bookkeeper from 35 hours per week to 40 hours per week.
Second: Councilman Hewitt

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

APPOINTMENT OF EMPLOYEE/ SETTING RATE OF COMPENSATION:
Resolution # 77-2021:

A Motion was made by Councilwoman Enouen that the Town of Rochester Town Board confirms the appointment of Michael Lown to the vacant position of Laborer, Transfer Station, and establishes a compensation rate of $15.00 per hour for a work period of 24 hours per week, as budgeted. The Laborer position has been classified in the Labor category under the NYS Civil Service classification system.
Second: Supervisor Baden

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

APPOINTMENT OF EMPLOYEE/ SETTING RATE OF COMPENSATION:
Resolution # 78-2021:

A Motion was made by Supervisor Baden that the Town of Rochester Town Board confirms the appointment of Alyssa Farrell to the vacant position of Zoning Coordinator (provisional) and establishes a compensation rate of $20.00 per hour for a work period not to exceed 40 hours per week, as budgeted. The Zoning Coordinator position has been classified in the Competitive category under the NYS Civil Service classification. The appointed person has been reviewed by the Ulster County Personnel Department and has been confirmed as having the minimum qualifications required to be appointed provisionally.
Second: Councilman Hewitt

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent
SPECIAL MEETING
Resolution # 79-2021:

A Motion was made by Councilwoman Enouen that the Town Board sets a special meeting to be held via videoconference on February 11, 2021 for the purpose of review of a request to consider an application for addition to the Economic Enterprise Overlay District and any other Town Board business. The Town Board requests the Town Clerk post required legal notice of the meeting.
Second: Councilman Hewitt

AMEND RESOLUTION # 79-2021:

A Motion was made by Councilwoman Enouen that the Town Board sets a special meeting to be held via videoconference on February 11, 2021 at 6:30pm for the purpose of review of a request to consider an application for addition to the Economic Enterprise Overlay District and any other Town Board business. The Town Board requests the Town Clerk post required legal notice of the meeting.
Second: Councilman Hewitt

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

LOCAL LAW 1 OF 2021: AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER 17, ETHICS:
Resolution # 80-2021:

A Motion was made by Councilman Paddock that;

Whereas, The Town of Rochester Town Board desires to amend the Code of the Town of Rochester, Chapter 17, Ethics to allow for an alternate member; and

Whereas, The Town of Rochester Town Board classifies this action as an Uncoordinated, Unlisted Action for the purposes of the State Environmental Quality Review Act, and the Supervisor has completed a Part 1 assessment for the action; and

THEREFORE, the Town Board requests the Town Clerk circulate and post notice of a public hearing for Local Law 1 of 2021, Amendment of Chapter 17, Ethics to be held March 4, 2021 at 6:30pm, to be held at the Harold Lipton Community Center or via videoconference in compliance with the Governor’s Executive Order 202.1 and successors and requests the Town Clerk post and advertise legal notice of such public hearing.
Second: Councilwoman Enouen

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

LOCAL LAW 2 OF 2021: AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 140- ZONING SHORT TERM RENTALS:
Resolution #81-2021:

A Motion was made by Supervisor Baden that;

Whereas, the Town of Rochester convened the Comprehensive Plan and Land Use Code Review Committee on February 6, 2020, and

Whereas, the committee has met and made written recommendation to the Town Board, and

Whereas, the Town Board determines with the increase in tourism over the past several years in the Town of Rochester and adjacent areas, there has been an increase in the number of property owners renting to tourists on a short-term transient basis, and

Whereas, the Town Board has reviewed the recommendations and made changes and has developed a local law which imposes mandatory regulations and requirements on all Town of Rochester property owners that desire to rent on a short-term transient basis their property. The purpose of such regulations and requirements are to assure that the properties being rented meet certain minimum safety and regulatory requirements thereby protecting both the property owners, occupants of such housing and the residents of the Town of Rochester, and

Whereas, the Town Board held a public hearing on December 9, 2020 and received comments on a draft local law 5 -2020 at such public hearing, and

Whereas, the Town Board received written comments on the draft from residents, the Town of Rochester Planning Board, and the Ulster County Planning Board, and

Whereas, the Town Board has made changes to the draft code in response to the written and verbal testimony, and

Therefore, the Town Board requests the Town Clerk circulate and post notice of a public hearing for Local Law 2 of 2021, Amendment of Chapter 140, Zoning, Short-Term Transient Rentals
to be held March 11, 2021 at 6:30pm, to be held at the Harold Lipton Community Center or via videoconference in compliance with the Governor’s Executive Order 202.1 and successors and requests the Town Clerk post and advertise legal notice of such public hearing and to circulate such local law to the Ulster County Planning Board and the Town of Rochester Planning Board for comment.
Second: Councilwoman Enouen

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent
NOTICE OF PUBLIC BIDDING: MILL HOOK BRIDGE:
Resolution # 82-2021:

A Motion was made by Councilwoman Enouen that;

Whereas, The Town of Rochester, Ulster County, New York, is soliciting bids for the Demolition and Removal of the existing Steel Beam Bridge with Asphalt Deck (The Town will remove existing Wooden Deck and Railings) and Installation of Pre-Cast, Pre-Stressed Concrete Bridge Deck Beams, Steel Double Box Beam Bridge Rails, Modify Existing Concrete Abutment, and Blacktop Resurfacing of Approaches meeting the minimum specifications as defined by the project engineer and the Town of Rochester Highway Superintendent, and

Whereas, the Town Board is seeking bid proposals pursuant to the specifications and plans as developed by the project engineer, and

Whereas, all bids must be submitted in writing, sealed, and submitted to the Town of Rochester Clerk with a bid Due Date of March 8, 2021 @ 12:00pm. The sealed envelope must contain the wording “SEALED BID” stating “Bid for Bridge”, and

Whereas, all bids must be submitted with an affirmed non-collusive bidding certification or will not be considered for award, and

Whereas, the bid Opening will be conducted on March 8, 2021 at 2pm via videoconference, and

Whereas, bid award is anticipated to be on or about March 22, 2021, and

Whereas, The Town expects successful completion of the project by June 18, 2021, and

Whereas, Bid Sets may be obtained from project engineer Medenbach & Eggers, and

Whereas, Bids must include all costs including labor and materials for installation. The proposed bid specifications may be supplemented in whole or in part by at least equally superior parts, models and brands. Any specification to which the bidder cannot comply or believes not reasonable for compliance may be omitted or changed as seen fit by the bidder in order to meet the overall intent of the bidder’s vision for the bid item, and

Whereas, The bidder shall note clearly the deviation or omission from the bid specifications on the bid submission. Any failure to note such deviation or omission shall-serve as a basis for denial. The Town of Rochester reserves the right to deny or reject any bid for any specific-non-compliance with any item which is deemed of material importance to the Town of Rochester or for the submission of a bid with any inferior parts, models or brands, and the successful bidder shall comply with any and all provisions of the project included in the bid package, and

Therefore, The Town Board authorizes the Town Supervisor and Town Clerk to circulate notice of the bid request via the official town newspaper and on the NYS Contract Reporter.
Second: Councilman Paddock

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

AMENDMENT TO RESOLUTION 159-2006, CHANGE OF COMMISSION TITLE:
Resolution # 83-2021:

A Motion was made by Councilman Paddock that the Town of Rochester Town Board hereby amends resolution 159-2006 adopted December 7, 2006; as amended by resolution 59-2007, adopted March 28, 2007; as amended by resolution xx-2014, adopted February 28, 2014.
1. The term “Youth Commission” shall be changed to “Recreation Commission” wherever said term exists in the original resolution.
2. Additional changes to be made to the resolution shall be changed as noted to address the functions of the commission’s oversight of senior and adult residents needs of the Town of Rochester.
Establishment: Composition of Members
A Commission is hereby established which shall be known and designated as the “Town of Rochester Recreation Commission.” The Commission shall be composed of not less than five members, all residents of the town. At least one half of said Commission shall be at least twenty-one years of age and the remaining members may be at least 14 years of age or older. There will be established a Junior Youth Board, ages 10-18, to provide ongoing information.
Appointment; Terms
The members of the Commission will be appointed by the Town Board of the Town of Rochester for a period of three years. Of the members first appointed, at least two shall be appointed for terms of office of one year each and at least two for terms of office of two years each and at least two for terms of office of three years each. Thereafter, all appointments, except to fill vacancies, shall be for terms of office of three years each. Vacancies occurring otherwise than by expiration of terms of office shall be filled for the unexpired terms of the offices so filled.
Compensation
Members of the Commission shall serve without pay but shall be eligible to receive documented expenses related upon audit and approval of the Town Board, provided that such expenses are pre-approved.
Organization
The Commission shall take all action by majority vote. The Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the Commission shall be appointed by the Town Board annually at its Organizational Meeting. The Commission shall elect a Secretary and will keep accurate records of its meetings and actions.
These monthly minutes will be sent to the Town Board and put on the Town’s website. The Commission shall also appoint one member, at least 21 years of age or older, as a representative to the Ulster Children’s Advocacy Network (UCAN).
Purpose
A. The Recreation Commission shall meet monthly to research and study the needs and problems of youth, adults, and seniors in the Town of Rochester, evaluate recreational and social needs and desires of all Rochester residents, develop plans and programs to be run by the Town of Rochester, implement programs in conjunction with the Ulster County Youth Bureau and the Ulster County Office of the Aging, evaluate programs to determine their effectiveness, coordinate the effective and efficient disbursement of aid received by the Town of Rochester and help prepare quarterly and annual reports for submission to the Ulster County Youth Bureau.
B. The Recreation Commission is to report directly to the Town Board all its findings and recommendations and, in conjunction with the Town Board, request assistance from the various youth and seniors’ agencies in Ulster County and New York State to establish and implement youth, adult, and seniors’ programs.
Second: Councilman Hewitt

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

BOARD/ COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS RESOLUTIONS 84-91::

A Motion was made by Councilwoman Enouen that the following appointments be made;

Resolution # 84-2021:

The Town Board appoints Lisa Dokken to the Environmental Conservation Commission for a term to end 12/31/2023 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.

Resolution # 85-2021:

The Town Board appoints Stephen Lopez to the Recreation Commission for a term to end 12/31/2023 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.

Resolution # 86-2021;

The Town Board appoints Natalie Schults to the Historic Preservation Commission for a term to end 12/31/2023 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.

Resolution # 87-2021:

The Town Board appoints Suzanne Miedema to the Historic Preservation Commission for a term to end 12/31/2023 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.

Resolution # 88-2021:

The Town Board appoints Gloria Mirsky to the Historic Preservation Commission for a term to end 12/31/2023 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.

Resolution # 89-2021:
The Town Board Joanne Mariner to the Historic Preservation Commission for a term to end 12/31/2023 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.

Resolution # 90 -2021:

The Town Board Deborah Medenbach to the Historic Preservation Commission for a term to end 12/31/2023 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.

Resolution # 91-2021:

The Town Board appoints Ryan Fitzgerald to the Historic Preservation Commission for a term to end 12/31/2023 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.
Second: Councilman Hewitt

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

PLANNING BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
Resolution # 92-2021:

A Motion was made by Supervisor Baden that The Town Board appoints Marc Grasso to the Planning Board for a term to end 12/31/2027 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.
Second: Councilman Paddock

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent
PLANNING BOARD ALTERNATE APPOINTMENT:
Resolution # 93-2021:

A Motion was made by Supervisor Baden that the Town Board appoints Zachary Jarvis as alternate Planning Board member for a term to end 12/31/2022 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.
Second: Councilwoman Enouen

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS APPOINTMENT:
Resolution # 94-2021:

A Motion was made by Councilwoman Enouen that the Town Board appoints Michael Wassell to the Zoning Board of Appeals to fill a vacancy for a term to end 12/31/2022 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.
Second: Supervisor Baden

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS APPOINTMENTS:
Resolution # 95-2021:

A Motion was made by Councilman Paddock that the Town Board appoints Jill Bressler to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a term to end 12/31/2025 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.
Second: Councilman Hewitt

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

BOARD OF ETHICS APPOINTMENT:
Resolution # 96-2021:

A Motion was made by Councilman Paddock that the Town Board appoints Alan Roberts to the Board of Ethics for a term to end 12/31/2025 and requests the Town Clerk notify of the oath of office requirement.
Second: Councilman Hewitt

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

REAPPOINTMENTS TO POSITIONS:
Resolution # 97-2021:

A Motion was made by Supervisor Baden to appoint the following;

Robert Barringer- Transfer Station Laborer
Jeffrey Subah-Transfer Station Laborer
LeeAnn Warren- Clerk to Justice Shaheen
Anthony Mottola- Constable
Anthony Vignone-Constable
Second: Councilman Paddock

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent
REAPPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS/ COMMISSIONS:
Resolution # 98-2021:

A Motion was made by Supervisor Baden to re-appoint the following;

Sam Zurofsky- Vice Chair to the Planning Board
Timothy Ganon- Member to the ECC
Heather Eckhardt- Member to the ECC
Jessica Knapp- Chair to the Recreation Commission
Second: Councilman Hewitt

ROLL CALL:

Councilwoman Enouen aye
Councilwoman Haugen-Depuy absent
Councilman Hewitt aye
Councilman Paddock aye
Supervisor Baden aye 4-0, motion carried
Haugen-Depuy absent

Supervisor Baden stated that the meeting took a little over 2 ½ hours, there is a lot going on in Town and I will bring it before the Board to discuss. Previous Boards rushed through meetings and I will not do that.
Councilwoman Enouen stated that it was a big agenda and we went through it efficiently and values the discussion time.
Councilman Paddock stated that he doesn’t care how long the meeting take we want them to run correctly.
Councilman Hewitt stated amazing agenda Mike good job!

ADJOURNMENT:

A Motion was made by Supervisor Baden to adjourn the meeting at 9:06pm in memory of the following;

• Edward Baden
• Alan Levine
• Arthur Dreher
• Maria Magnowski
• Reverend Margaret Snyder
• Sigurd Gatland
• All suffering worldwide from the COVID-19 virus

Second: Councilman Hewitt motion carried

RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,

KATHLEEN A. GUNDBERG
TOWN CLERK