Berlin Town Board Picks Consultant For Proposed Expansion Of Aquafarm Facility
By Doug La Rocque
At their regular monthly meeting last Thursday, members of the Berlin Town Board decided to follow the recommendation of the Planning Board, and agreed to hire Clough Harbour Associates of Albany to guide them through the long form Environmental Impact Study and other aspects of the proposed expansion and multi-level change in use for the Aquafarm facility at the site of the former Seagroatts Roses. [private] The Planning Board had narrowed their choice down to Clough Harbour and Chazin Companies of Troy, deciding on their recommendation at a special meeting just prior to the Town Board session. It’s estimated Clough Harbour’s services might run as much as $10,000, but the bill will be paid by Safe Holdings, the company currently constructing the facility. Safe Holdings already has a consultant preparing the plans, the nature of which still have not been revealed. It is believed that the details will be part of the long form SEQR presented to the Town Board for approval. The Town Board has declared itself to be the lead agency on the proposal.
The Board also welcomed the news that a Dollar General Store is being considered for land currently owned by Eagle Energy, on the north side of their structure. Dollar General has confirmed to The Eastwick Press that a store in Berlin is part of their planned Northeast expansion. The company said they hope to be operational by early 2017, but the consulting and engineering firm that represented them at the last Planning Board session, indicated they are shooting to open by the Holiday shopping season. Dollar General said stores such as the one planned for Berlin, typically hire between 8 and 12 employees. The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on the proposal as part of its next meeting on Thursday, May 26. It was also disclosed that the owners of Eagle Energy, Larry King and Cheryl Maxon, may well be back in front of the Planning Board with a proposal to open an eatery in their building. The building once housed the Lamp Post Restaurant.
Supervisor Jaeger Resigns…Briefly
On April 30, Town Supervisor Rob Jaeger tendered his resignation to the Board, but was reappointed at a special meeting held May 2. Jaeger’s actions were precipitated by his recent resignation as a bus driver from the Berlin Central School District, and his desire to start collecting his pension. He needed to resign from all employers that contribute to the NYS pension fund, the Town of Berlin being one. The resignation had to be in effect for at least 24 hours. Jaeger was able to resume his duties, as his salary as Supervisor does not rise to the level that generates a mandatory pension contribution. Deputy Supervisor Tara Fisher assumed the position of Town Supervisor in the interim.
With increased temperatures have come increased speeds along Bly Hollow Road once again. Dog Control Officer Doug Goodermote, a resident of the road, asked if there had been any word from the NYS Department of Transportation about the Town’s request to lower the speed limit from 40 to 30 miles per hour. He said that during the winter months, vehicles traveling the road had slowed down some, but with better weather many are once again greatly exceeding the speed limit. Supervisor Jaeger replied that as yet, they have had no word as to their request. Goodermote also thanked all those who helped with last month’s dog and cat rabies clinic. He described the turnout as very good. He also reported he is working on some dog issues on the south end of town and by the elementary school.
New Regulations And Building Codes Coming
Building Inspector and Codes Enforcement Officer Allen Yerton advised the Board of a number of changes taking effect soon, that include additions and new construction. Yerton said his new rules book requires a design professional to draw up plans for any additions, so every applicant will meet all state and local codes during construction. Newly constructed homes will have to have new energy efficient lighting, and those with basements will also have to have a fire rated flooring in that basement, not just around heating units.
Both water districts are fairly quiet, but Water District 2 Commissioner Jim Winn said he has noticed a few leaks in vacant homes. He said he wishes he could find out who owns the houses to contact them about repairing leaks or getting the water turned off.
Highway Superintendent Jim Winn said work on the roads is routine and they are preparing for some summer paving projects.
The summer youth recreation program will run three weeks, July 6 to 22 from 9 am to noon. The Town has not yet heard back from the Hoosick Pool, so learn to swim programs are not yet set.
The Board heard a presentation from the Youth to Youth program at Berlin Central School. Sophomores Rachel Cahill and Henry Ruebel outlined the successes of the program in community service and pro-social alternatives to such problems as alcohol and drug abuse. The students asked the Town to renew its sponsorship of two youths to attend the Y2Y Eastern States Conference.
Supervisor Jaeger reminded the Board that this July they will have to review their Comprehensive Plan for the town. This is required every five years. Town Clerk Anne Maxon reported state, local and county revenues for April totaled $7,820 and non- local revenues were $1,008. The
Board approved all bills as audited before adjourning.[/private]