THE R.A.P. SHEET
SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF AVOCA, PRATTSBURGH AND PULTENEY

Editor's Note: The Minutes of the Village and Town Board meetings appearing below have not been approved at the time this goes to press.

Town of Prattsburgh

The regular meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Prattsburgh was called to order at 7 p.m. on Dec. 18, 2007 at the Prattsburgh Town Hall, 19 North Main Street, Prattsburgh, N.Y.

The Call to Order was made by Supervisor McConnell and was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

PRESENT: Supervisor J. Harold McConnell, Councilwoman Stacey Bottoni, Councilman David Hall, Councilman Charles Shick, and Councilwoman Sharon Quigley; Highway Superintendent Chris Jensen; Water/CEO Les Babcock; Town Attorney John Leyden; Bookkeeper Dolores Billings; and Town Clerk Pamela Kula.

ALSO PRESENT and welcomed by the Supervisor was Nancy Hall, Kim and Glenn Lambertz, Allan Muscianese, John Servo, Donna Campbell, Donnie Snyder, and Stevie Kula.

On a motion of Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilwoman Quigley, it is resolved that the minutes of the November 20, 2007 Town Board are approved.

On a motion of Councilwoman Quigley, seconded by Councilwoman Bottoni, it is resolved to accept the monthly financial report as submitted by the Town Supervisor.

On a motion of Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilwoman Bottoni, it is resolved that the following bills be paid as audited. GENERAL FUND BILLS ck#18246 through ck#18304 (Including Highway, Light, Sidewalk and Water) and amounting to $85,225.56. TRUST & AGENCY BILLS ck#5237 through ck#5275 including payroll checks and electronic transfer and amounting to $48,286.00.

On a motion of Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilwoman Quigley, it is resolved to make the following appropriations to prevent shortages in various accounts.

General Fund:

From: A1989.4, Unclassified, C.E., $1,560.00

To: A1620.4, Bldgs., phones, 300.00

A1620.43, Buildings, supplies, 10.00

A1670.4 , Office supplies, 500.00

A1670.41, Postage, Printing, 200.00

A1670.42, Computer Supplies, 400.00

A5010.4, Hwy. Supt., C.E., 100.00

A5132.4, Barn, Phones, 50.00

Highway Fund:

From: D5112.4, Perm. Improve., C.D., $23,150.00

To: D5120.1, Bridges, P.S., 350.00

D5120.4, Bridges, C.E., 8,600.00

D5130.43, Machy., parts & repairs, 14,000.00

D5130.45, Machinery, supplies, 200.00

Water District Fund:

From: SW8310.4, Admin., Ins., 750.00

To: S W 8 3 1 0 . 4 , Administration, C.E., 350.00

SW8330.4, Purification, C.E., 200.00

SW84340.4, Trans. & Distrib, C.E., 200.00

On a motion of Supervisor McConnell, seconded by Councilman Hall and duly carried, it is resolved to transfer $150,000.00 from the Highway Savings account balance of $244,602.00 to the Highway Equipment Reserve savings.

There were 7 water bills relevied on the January 2008 Town and County Tax bills, for a total relevy of $1,381.54.

Communications:

Letter from American Legion thanking the Town for paying for the repair of the plexiglass in the war memorial. Also, the Legion appreciates the effort of the Town to divert the flow of runoff from the Town properties, but the installation of the drain is not enough to handle the overflow of water in heavy rains, and they will be looking for a more lasting solution.

A letter from the State of New York requesting that the Town reconsider its decision not to participate in the Local Update of Census Addresses.

New Business: On a motion of Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilwoman Quigley, it was duly resolved to approve the renewal of the Town's Insurance Policy with NYMIR for the year 2008.

Supervisor McConnell said that the Salvation Army has requested the use of the Town Hall's parking lot once a month for a food donation. The Board agreed this would be okay.

On a motion of Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilwoman Bottoni, it was duly resolved to appoint the Town Supervisor to be the Town representative under the Findings Statement that was issued by the Steuben County IDA on May 30, 2007. The Town Supervisor shall have all authority vested in the Town representative in connection with any setback disputes raised by landowners.

On a motion of Councilwoman Bottoni, seconded by Councilwoman Quigley, and duly carried, the board resolved to enter into a contract with the Naples Ambulance for the year 2008 at a cost of $1,320.00 for Ambulance Coverage in Fire District 2.

John Servo was present to request that the Town's Highway Department plow the seasonal portion of Blacklock road that leads to his property. Mr. Servo states that he is a full-time resident of this property located at 11752 Blacklock Road. He presented the Board with a letter stating this request. (A copy of which is on file with the Town Clerk). Highway Superintendent Chris Jensen said, that last winter, there was 4 to 5 weeks where no one was there. Chris stated that this is a very difficult stretch of the road to plow, and takes additional time which is not right when there is no one there. The Board did not take any action regarding this issue.

On a motion of Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilwoman Bottoni, and duly carried, it is resolved that the Town enter into an agreement with Betty Walden for dog sheltering services for the year 2008.

Highway Report: (Chris Jensen) Since our last meeting, we were able to finish putting up snow fence and repair some shoulders in Ingleside before the bad weather started.

Once it started, we have been busy either sanding ice or plowing snow. Out of the last 28 days, 21 of them we had to do some plowing, sanding, or both.

In the shop, it has been pretty much routine maintenance for this time of year. This consists of building and repairing chains, changing cutting edges on plows and wings, oil changes, washing and repairing lights. On December 4th, our single axle truck that plows most of Ingleside quit, in the middle of Blodgett Road. It was about 4:30 a.m. and snowing steadily. I had Sonny's tow it to his shop. It turned out to be a bad water pump, which also took out the cam sensor. He repaired it and we got it back that evening.

Our new 10-wheeler was delivered, we sent it back due to hydraulic problems, but it's back and in service.

The weather gave us a break today, so we started hauling in some sand and salt mix from Bath. I have been receiving some quotes for hauling sand/salt in the event we don't have time to do it ourselves.

On a motion of Supervisor McConnell, seconded by Councilman Hall, and duly carried it is resolved that the Town of Prattsburgh enter into the Agreement for Engineering Services with Hunt Engineers, Architects & Land Surveyors, P.C.

Code Enforcement/Water: (Les Babcock) Issued 19 buildings permits which includes the following: 36 wind turbines, 1 addition and coal stove, 1 new single wide, 1 storage shed; did 8 building inspections; 4 certificates of occupancy or certificates of compliance; 2 septic inspections; received 2 complaints about burn barrels; 1 complaint from tenant about house they are renting; 3 reports from the Fire Department on carbon monoxide detectors going off.

Water Department… Annual inspection from Department of Health; turned off 4 services, turned on 3 services, repaired broken off hydrant. Parks & Maintenance… Decorated for Christmas, put snow plow and blower on Kubota, took care of water bills and turn offs; plowed sidewalks 2 times; Richard plowed 2 times.

Les said that he is getting more and more complaints about burning barrels, and that people are actually getting ill. He thinks the board should look into this issue.

Supervisor: (J. Harold McConnell) Harold told the Board that the cost of health insurance is increasing by over 9% for the year 2008. For family coverage, the town's share each month is $1,007.00 and the employee's share is now $431.00 per month. For individual coverage, the town's share each month is $411.00 and the employee's share is $176.00 per month.

The Supervisor set the 2008 Organizational Meeting for Thursday, January 3, 2008 at 7:00 p.m.

McConnell mentioned the Association of Towns Training School for newly elected officials, which will be held in Rochester, New York in January 2008. He advised that the new Town Board Member, as well as current Board Members who have never attended should consider attending.

Supervisor McConnell said that this is the last meeting for Councilman Hall. Harold said that David has been an excellent Board Member for the past 15 years and he will be greatly missed. Councilman Hall said that it has been a privilege to serve on the Town Board.

Councilwoman Bottoni thanked all who were involved in decorating the Town for Christmas. Everyone agreed that the town looks beautiful.

On a motion by Councilman Hall, seconded by Councilwoman Bottoni, the meeting was adjourned at 7:50 P.M.

Town of Pulteney

The regular meeting of the Pulteney Town Board was called to order by Supervisor William Weber at 7:00 PM on Wednesday, December 12, 2007, at the Pulteney Town Hall with roll call followed by Pledge of Allegiance.

Present were: Supervisor William Weber; Councilman Janet Stone; Councilman Richard French; Councilman James Fox; Councilman Robert Kemp; Highway Supt. George McIntyre; Town Attorney John F. Leyden; Bookkeeper Helen Coombs; CEO/Watershed/Zoning Officer Lauren Welch and Town Clerk Donna Conley.

Supervisor Weber made

motion seconded by Councilman Kemp to amend the motion "to modify the agreement with Ken Forenz and be paid salary the first of December 2007 not withstanding taking the test for certification for Class D" in the November 14, 2007 minutes to read "to modify the agreement with Ken Forenz and be paid salary November 25, 2007 not withstanding taking the test for certification for Class D. Roll call vote: Councilman Stone, yes; Councilman French, yes; Councilman Fox, yes; Councilman Kemp, yes; Supervisor Weber, yes. Carried.

Councilman Stone made motion seconded by Councilman Fox to accept the minutes of the November 14th meeting with the above amendment. All in favor. Carried.

Supervisor Weber gave general and highway profit & loss statements.

John Murphy, from Hunt Engineers, explained they anticipate hook-ups shortly; had a small leak south of the Stone Pt. area and repaired it. Telemetry is still missing but can be done manually.

Ken Forenz, Water Plant Operator reported he has given 11 permits to residents in the water district and the EFIpeople were here two weeks ago and has much of the equipment up and running. They found some meter problems but that is now solved. We are waiting for their return to turn it on.

Councilman French made motion seconded by Councilman Stone to receive and place on file Code Enforcement Officer's (CEO) & Watershed Officer's; Zoning Officer's; DCO Officer's and Justice's reports. All in favor. Carried.

Highway Supt. McIntyre noted they have been doing ditching, cold patching roads, put the water line in at the town barn; plowing and sanding roads.

Supervisor Weber noted the two (2) signs indicating the Town's Curfew Law to be put around the Town Hall were ordered at $45.00 each. Board agreed that their locations be at the discretion of the Highway Supt. He further noted the assessor generated a bar graph showing taxes and assessments for the school districts taxes. He is looking into the matter further.

Councilman French made motion seconded by Councilman Fox to suspend regular order of business to hold the public hearing on the Town of Pulteney Preliminary 2008 Water District No. 1 Budget. All in favor. Carried.

Supervisor Weber opened the public hearing.

Town Clerk read legal ad. Supervisor Weber explained items in the budget.

After all people being heard that wanted to be heard, Supervisor Weber closed the hearing.

Councilman French made motion seconded by Councilman Fox to resume the regular order of business. All in favor. Carried.

Supervisor Weber made motion seconded by Councilman Kemp to adopt the Town of Pulteney Preliminary Water District No. 1 Budget for 2008 and make it the Adopted Town of Pulteney 2008 Water District No. 1 Budget. Roll call vote: Councilman Stone, yes; Councilman French, yes; Councilman Fox, yes; Councilman Kemp, yes; Supervisor Weber, yes. Carried.

Rita Finley was present to discuss a sign proposal for the Town of Pulteney and the Library for up by the road. The Library Board of Trustees proposal was for a 4' x 5' double-sided sign costing $575.00 and the 2 signposts to put it up will cost approximately $105.00 totaling $680.00 which does not include installation. They asked if Town would like to share in the cost, which would be about $340.00 each and if not they would just do a smaller sign.

Supervisor Weber added that our 911 number should be added to the sign also.

Supervisor Weber made motion seconded by Councilman Stone to approve the sign proposed by the Library Trustees and agree to share the cost of the sign and signposts at about $340.00 each plus installation. Roll call vote: Councilman Stone, yes; Councilman French, yes; Councilman Fox, yes; Councilman Kemp, yes; Supervisor Weber, yes. Carried.

Councilman Fox made motion seconded by Councilman Kemp to recess regular order of business to hold the public hearing on the Town of Pulteney Local Law Tentatively No. 4 of the year 2007 entitled "Land Use and Zoning Regulations". All in favor. Carried.

Supervisor Weber opened the public hearing and explained the changes.

Town Clerk read legal ad.

Attorney Leyden noted the Steuben County Director of Planning Dept. was sent a notice of our law change who returned a letter stating the County had no comment and left it as a local decision.

After all people being heard that wanted to be heard, Supervisor Weber closed the hearing.

Councilman Kemp made motion seconded by Councilman French to resume the regular order of business. All in favor. Carried.

Attorney Leyden and Supervisor Weber did a short environmental SEQR form and found it had a negative declaration with no adverse effect on the environment.

Supervisor Weber made motion seconded by Councilman Fox to accept the short environmental SEQR form relative to Local Law No. 4 of 2007 entitled "Land Use and Zoning Regulations" showing a negative declaration with no adverse effect on the environment. Roll call vote: Councilman Stone, yes; Councilman French, yes; Councilman Fox, yes; Councilman Kemp, yes; Supervisor Weber, yes. Carried.

Councilman Fox made motion seconded by Councilman Kemp to adopt Local Law No. 4 of 2007 entitled "Land Use and Zoning Regulations". Roll call vote: Councilman Stone, yes; Councilman French, yes; Councilman Fox, yes; Councilman Kemp, yes; Supervisor Weber, yes. Carried.

The heat and fire sensor quotes were discussed for the Town Hall. We never received a quote from ADT and enough time has lapsed. Of the four (4) quotes we received, EVAGUARD is the least expensive.

Empire Telephone: $2,118.42; monthly charge $ 21.60

CPE Interlink: $6,292.00; annually charge $320.00

Sonitrol Security: $7,885.00, monthly charge $ 35.00

Evaguard: $1,200.00, monthly charge $ 15.99

Councilman Kemp made motion seconded by Councilman Stone to accept EVAGUARD's quote of $1,200.00 for the fire detection system of the Town Hall with a monthly monitoring fee of $15.99 per month and further authorize Supervisor Weber to sign a check for $600.00 that is half the installation fee as required up front. Roll call vote: Councilman Stone, yes; Councilman French, yes; Councilman Fox, yes; Councilman Kemp, yes; Supervisor Weber, yes. Carried.

A letter was received from the Fire Commissioners of Fire District No. 2 regarding complications with ambulance service to District No. 1 without mutual aid calls from Penn Yan after December 31, 2007. The people will need to contact Penn Yan for an ambulance. The Commissioners asked that Board members attend their next Commissioners meeting December 17th to discuss the matter.

Councilman Fox made motion seconded by Councilman French to direct the highway dept. to install the water systems at the Town Hall and the Town/Ambulance Building. Roll call vote: Councilman Stone, yes; Councilman French, yes; Councilman Fox, yes; Councilman Kemp, yes; Supervisor Weber, yes. Carried.

The lease renewal for the gravel pit with Chesapeake Energy, formerly Columbia Gas, was discussed. The Town would receive $906.50 for a five (5) year lease on the area.

Councilman French made motion seconded by Councilman Stone authorizing Supervisor Weber to execute the "Order of Payment" from Chesapeake Appalachia, L.L.C. for the amount of $906.50 being a renewal five (5) year lease for the gravel pit area. Roll call vote: Councilman Stone, yes; Councilman French, yes; Councilman Fox, yes; Councilman Kemp, yes; Supervisor Weber, yes. Carried.

The following resolution was made regarding water rates and terms and conditions for the water district:

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 7 of Local Law No. 2, 2007 of the Town of Pulteney, the Town Board is authorized and empowered to establish water rates, fees and other charges in connection with the administration and operation of Town of Pulteney Water District No. 1.

UPON motion made by Councilman Kemp and seconded by Councilman Stone, it was

RESOLVED, that for the year 2007-2008, the rate per one thousand (1000) gallons of water delivered to a customer shall be $6.97/thousand.

RESOLVED, that the above rate is subject to change by further resolution of this board.

RESOLVED, that each customer shall be billed on a quarter-annual basis commencing January 2008.

RESOLVED, that a minimum quarter-annual gallonage of water to each customer shall be ten thousand (10,000) gallons.

RESOLVED, that upon initial connection to the system, a customer shall be billed in the quarter initially connected based on initial use of water and prorated for such quarter if the quarterly minimum is not consumed.

RESOLVED, that all water meters shall only be furnished by the Town of Pulteney.

RESOLVED, that between November 14, 2007 and December 31, 2009, all initial meters installed within the Town of Pulteney Water District No. 1 shall be without charge to the customer; thereafter, the customer will be billed for a meter at the Town's cost of the meter.

RESOLVED, that meter pits, when and where required, shall be sold to the customer by the Town at the Town's cost. (AMENDED DECEMBER 27, 2007 MINUTES)

RESOLVED, that approved pressure relief valves to be installed by the customer must be purchased from the Town at the Town's cost. (AMENDED IN DECEMBER 27, 2007 MINUTES)

RESOLVED, that all water charges are due and payable pursuant to the water bill as rendered.

RESOLVED, that water bills unpaid for thirty (30) days or more shall be subject to an administrative charge of one and one-half percent (1.5%) per month with a maximum cap of ten percent (10%).

RESOLVED, that is water charges are not paid within sixty (60) days of the date due, the water supply to the subject property may be shut off, upon written notice of ten (10) days, until such water charges are paid.

RESOLVED, that all water charges shall be a lien upon the real property on which, or in connection with which, such water is used.

RESOLVED, all voluntary and involuntary water shut off shall incur a fee, which shall be established by resolution of the Town Board and amended by further resolution of the Town Board from time to time.

This resolution was duly adopted by a majority vote of the Town Board as follows:

Supervisor Weber, yes, Councilman Stone, yes; Councilman French, yes; Councilman Kemp, yes; Councilman Fox, yes. Carried.

A fact sheet was received informing us about the upcoming investigation and interim remedial measures at the former Nichol Inn site.

The "STOP" sign at the top of Boyd Hill was discussed. Vince Spagnoletti, Steuben County Public Works Commissioner, had sent a letter indicating by state law there is no such thing as a "3-way STOP" which the Town wanted. The County put up a "four way STOP". Supervisor Weber will contact him regarding this decision.

Councilman Kemp made motion seconded by Councilman Stone authorizing Attorney Leyden to modify our current subdivision law for the wording of the fees charged. All in favor. Carried.

Supervisor Weber made motion seconded by Councilman French to hold the year-end meeting on Thursday, December 27, 2007 at 11:00 AM at the Pulteney Town Hall. All in favor. Carried.

Councilman Stone indicated the last piece has arrived for the playground but it is now too cold to pour concrete so every thing is on hold.

Councilman French made motion to adjourn. All in favor. Carried.

Meeting adjourned at 8:40 PM.

Supervisor William Weber called the year-end meeting of the Pulteney Town Board to order Thursday, December 27, 2007, at 11:00 AM followed by Pledge of Allegiance and roll call.

Present were: Supervisor William Weber; Councilman Janet Stone; Councilman Richard French; Councilman James Fox; Councilman Robert Kemp; Highway Supt. George McIntyre; Bookkeeper Helen Coombs and Town Clerk Donna Conley.

Also present was Water Operator Ken Forenz.

Supervisor Weber discussed the Profit & Loss Statements for General and Highway.

The resolution made at the December 12, 2007 meeting regarding water fees and rates and conditions for the water district was discussed as needing amending. First amendment being: "RESOLVED, that meter pits, when and where required, shall be sold to the customer by the Town at the Town's cost" should read "RESOLVED, that meter pit packages, when and where required, shall be sold to the customer by the Town at the Town's cost." Second amendment being: "RESOLVED, that approved pressure relief valves to be installed by the customer must be purchased from the Town at the Town's cost" shall be deleted.

Supervisor Weber made motion seconded by Councilman Kemp to amend the resolution, as stated above, made at the December 12, 2007 meeting regarding water fees and rates and conditions for the water district to read as follows:

RESOLUTION:

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 7 of Local Law No. 2, 2007 of the Town of Pulteney, the Town Board is authorized and empowered to establish water rates, fees and other charges in connection with the administration and operation of Town of Pulteney Water District No. 1.

UPON motion made by Councilman Kemp and seconded by Councilman Stone, it was

RESOLVED, that for the year 2007-2008, the rate per one thousand (1000) gallons of water delivered to a customer shall be $6.97/thousand.

RESOLVED, that the above rate is subject to change by further resolution of this board.

RESOLVED, that each customer shall be billed on a quarter-annual basis commencing January 2008.

RESOLVED, that a minimum quarter-annual gallonage of water to each customer shall be ten thousand (10,000) gallons.

RESOLVED, that upon initial connection to the system, a customer shall be billed in the quarter initially connected based on initial use of water and prorated for such quarter if the quarterly minimum is not consumed.

RESOLVED, that all water meters shall only be furnished by the Town of Pulteney.

RESOLVED, that between November 14, 2007 and December 31, 2009, all initial meters installed within the Town of Pulteney Water District No. 1 shall be without charge to the customer; thereafter, the customer will be billed for a meter at the Town's cost of the meter.

RESOLVED, that meter pit packages, when and where required, shall be sold to the customer by the Town at the Town's cost.

RESOLVED, that all water charges are due and payable pursuant to the water bill as rendered.

RESOLVED, that water bills unpaid for thirty (30) days or more shall be subject to an administrative charge of one and one-half percent (1.5%) per month with a maximum cap of ten percent (10%).

RESOLVED, that is water charges are not paid within sixty (60) days of the date due, the water supply to the subject property may be shut off, upon written notice of ten (10) days, until such water charges are paid.

RESOLVED, that all water charges shall be a lien upon the real property on which, or in connection with which, such water is used.

RESOLVED, all voluntary and involuntary water shut off shall incur a fee, which shall be established by resolution of the Town Board and amended by further resolution of the Town Board from time to time.

This resolution was duly adopted by a majority vote of the Town Board as follows:

Supervisor Weber, yes, Councilman Stone, yes; Councilman French, yes; Councilman Kemp, yes; Councilman Fox, yes. Carried.

Councilman French made motion seconded by Councilman Stone to receive and place on file DCO report for the balance of December 2007. All in favor. Carried.

Water Operator Ken Forenz reported they had two curb stops not working right but North Country Contractors came and fixed them and the telemetry box has been received. About twelve people are now receiving water. He noted he would like to purchase repair clamps for different size pipes to have on hand for repairs at a cost of roughly $1,600.00; but for $247.00 he could purchase a 12" ductile clamp now until more money is available. As there is already a second phone line in the water stations, he further discussed having someone besides himself on call when problems arise so if he is not available. He discussed Empire Telephone having an auto dialer system at a cost of .40 cents per call.

Board agreed for Ken Forenz to purchase a 12" ductile at $247.00 and to contact Empire Telephone to install the auto dialer system for emergency contacts.

Supervisor Weber made motion seconded by Councilman Kemp authorizing Supervisor Weber to execute the necessary documents with NYS Dept. of Transportation relative to the $70,000.00 grant for the excavator. Roll call vote: Councilman Stone, yes; Councilman French, yes; Councilman Fox, yes; Councilman Kemp, yes; Supervisor Weber, yes. Carried.

Highway Supt. McIntyre noted they have worked on Gloades Corners Rd. and put guide rail up with the County's help on Roff Hill.

Supervisor Weber made motion seconded by Councilman Kemp that the Town agrees to buy the Water Plant Operator a pair of shoes on same terms and conditions as union men. Roll call vote: Councilman Stone, yes; Councilman French, yes; Councilman Fox, yes; Councilman Kemp, yes; Supervisor Weber, yes. Carried.

Board members reviewed the ledgers, journals, an d receipts/disbursement books of the Supervisor for the General Fund, Highway Fund, Water District No. 1, and Trust and Agency Accounts, the books of the Town Clerk and of the Town Justice.

The organization and regular meeting will be held January 9, 2008 at 7:00 PM.

Councilman French made motion to adjourn. All in favor.

Meeting adjourned at 12:35 PM.

Town of Avoca

Minutes of the Avoca Town Board regular meeting December 19, 2007 called to order by Supervisor Wellington at 7:05 p.m.

Present were: Supervisor, Chris Wellington; Councilman, Doug Heinemann; Councilman, Francis Feely; Councilwoman, Wendi Hammond (absent); Councilman; Ken Parsels; Attorney, Karl Anderson Jr.; Town Clerk, Kim Jackson; Highway Super., Dan Hamilton; Bookkeeper, Betty Mattison (absent).

Others present were: Nelson Eaton, Gretchen Hubbard, Evelyn Goodine, Joe Hargrave, John Walsh, Yolande Loucks, Eric Tyner, Connie and Ivan Smith.

The Avoca Town Board said the Pledge of Allegiance for the meeting.

Motion by Councilman Heinemann, seconded by Councilman Parsels accepting the minutes of the November 21, 2007 minutes of the regular meeting. All in favor. Carried.

Motion by Councilman Parsels, seconded by Supervisor Wellington approving the following departmental reports for the month of November 2007. All in favor. Carried.

Town Clerk, Zoning, Animal Control Officer and Building Code.

Motion by Councilman Heinemann, seconded by Councilman Parsels authorizing to pay the abstract bills. All in favor. Carried.

Report from John Walsh: John reported about replacing the voting machines this coming year and requiring a handicapped machine at each polling site, the county had one at their site this year and only one person came to use the machine and the county offered that anyone needing a ride they would come and get them and take them back home no charge. New jail is complete the inmates have been transferred to the new pod because of some refurbishing at the old pod, painting and minor cosmetics. Office of the Aging gave 731 flu shots this year. 911 has received a grant for $114,000.00 to set up two more work stations. New health care facility is finishing up everything is going fine and should be completed on time.

Visitors: Ivan Smith asked the board about the increase in the tax rate and what could be done about getting it lowered. He also asked why Kim Jackson had not been fired for stealing money, Mr. Wellington responded by saying that it was down at bath being handled by the prosecutor. Kim Jackson responded to Mr. Smith that she did not steal any money she had nothing to do with any money, I submitted vouchers and the town board and they paid us. Mr. Wellington tried to explained to the public about the increase. Mrs. Gretchen Hubbard asked why was the town paying a bookkeeper/budget officer $22,000.00 plus $3,000.00 when she has no experience in municipal accounting, and what are her qualifications. She feels that it is a big mistake to pay her that kind of money and not being qualified. She wanted to know why the board set that pay so high. This is someone that Mr. Feely got in the position with an astronomical salary for a starting position. She thinks the town board should be held accountable. When I am paying the bill in January that I will be paying, I would like some answers, and I would like some decisions made that are not in favor of the employees and in favor of the tax payers. I sat at the last meeting and the budget was passed and raises were voted in for all full time employees. I would like to not be taxed to death. Mr. Wellington said that $50,000.00 the court was down because of Bucky Phillips ordeal right there is the tax increase, right there is where the numbers are. Mr. Eric Tyner spoke up and said with the Bucky Phillips ordeal the State still maintained there interstate patrol, I'm not saying court revenue might not have been down a little bit, but that happened in the summer of 2006, I know all the clerks and judges everything I've talked to them all and I don't of any other peoples taxes going up all because of Bucky Phillips. Mr. Tyner asked, so you are saying that the taxes have to go up because the court is not making enough money. Mr. Wellington said well because that money you would assume every other year has ben up around $200,000.00 or so you have to take that into consideration when you are doing the budget. Mrs. Hubbard said that the tax payers are paying these kinds funds too, the gas is for us the diesel fuel is for us, everything is for us as it is for the town and I didn't expect my taxes to raise a 100% but I still have to pay it no matter what. Mr. Anderson again explained about the increase. Mr. Feely felt that the board needed to be conservative with the budget, this information he got from St. John & Baldwin. Mr. Tyner responded by saying taxes are going up 40 to 50% because of one CD and some less court money. Mr. Anderson responded by saying no there was over spending also. He stated that probably 50-100 thousand dollars in over spending and maybe an equal amount in putting in the wrong places in the budget. That is why Nelson Eaton is working on it to find out where the problem occurred. Mr. Smith said there are a lot of ways you can start decreasing our taxes, find out what you can cut. Mr. Anderson replied by saying the allocation of the taxes outside the town and inside the town where the revenues can match these things is the best way to go about it and I feel that was mismanaged, before we have had stability in taxes in the Town for many years and all of a sudden with all the change in the town that is what I feel happened. Mr. Tyner asked if this 50% increase will fix the problem then why can't you back to where were at and Mr. Anderson stated they still don't know what the problem is. Mr. Wellington stated that we should be next year. Mr. Anderson stated that is why we got Nelson Eaton to work on where did all this go, what happened, how did it get this far. And we should find out by the next meeting, all the regular board meeting, what Nelson comes up with Mr. Ivan Smith asked can we look at things hat we can do to make savings for the tax payers.

The Town Clerk had to excuse herself for a prior commitment at 8:10 p.m. At that point she read a resignation of Councilman Francis Feely effective immediately upon receipt which made it effective on November 26, 2007 along with a letter stating his reasons for the resignation of which was received on November 28, 2007. A copy of the resignation and the letter is on file in the Town Clerk's Office. Before I left Attorney Anderson asked the Town Clerk for the record did I ever receive a copy of any budget from the Town of Avoca or anybody in the Town of Avoca before that final meeting that Dr. Feely suggested, no one handed my anything it was advertised and nobody had given me anything.

From this point the minutes that are to follow were given to me by another person who took notes and this is their opinion of the rest of the meeting.

Highway Super: Dan reported to board that the Ford 550 could be sold at auction and the Town should receive approximately 15 to 16 thousand dollars if they should decide to sell it. He also reported that the town should purchase a sand screen vibrator (cost: $875.31 complete and installed) so that the men would not have to get up in the dump body to shake down sand the sticks in the screens. Mr. Walsh suggested the Highway superintendent check with the Steuben County Highway Department to see if they might have a surplus or unused vibrator.

Motion by Councilman Parsels, seconded by Councilman Heinemann authorizing that the Town use St. John & Baldwin for the annual report. All in favor. Carried. St. John and Baldwin, accountants previously used by the Town for preparation of the Annual Report, has requested to know whether the town would want them to prepare the Annual Report again this year (2007) for the Town. After a short discussion. The firm of St. John and Baldwin was authorized to prepare the 2007 Annual Report for the Town of Avoca.

Motion by Councilman Heinemann, seconded by Supervisor Wellington authorizing that new door locks be put on the doors. All in favor. Carried. The board discussed what measures were being taken with regard to unauthorized entries into several offices of the Town and Village in the recent past. The board gave authorization to replace door locks as needed. Visitor Eric Tyner suggested that the supervisor work with the Sheriff's Department for security suggestions, possible investigation and advice.The Supervisor agreed to utilize what could be offered by the Sheriff's Office.

The Supervisor informed the board that a new computer was needed in the Assessor's Office. After discussion the board members agreed to purchase a new computer. They authorized the Supervisor and Assessor to obtain the computer.

The Town Assessor has requested that reassessment take place on a three year basis,, instead of every year basis utilized at present. This would affect the reimbursement per parcel that is now reimbursed by the State for annual reassessment. The Town Assessor will personally present the request at the next regular Board meeting in January.

The Supervisor reported to the Board on the building committee, that they were looking into possible grants to remodel the present building and the possibility of taking title to the present property.

Motion by Councilman Heinemann, seconded by Councilman Parsels authorizing to do end of year transfers. All in favor. Carried.

$20,000.00 from A1110.1 to A-1430.1

$7700.00 from A1110.4 to A-1220.4

$1000.00 from A1110.2 to A-1410.1

$7700.00 from A1110.4 to A-1220.4

$2100.00 from A1110.4 to A-1410.4

$2000.00 from A1355.4 to A-1320.4

$2500.00 from A1410.2 to A-1320.4

$750.00 from A1450.4 to A-1320.4

$150.00 from A1355.2 to A-1320.4

$300.00 from A3510.4 to A-1420.4

$2000.00 from A3510.4 to A-1910.4

$20.00 from A1355.4 to A-1910.4

$100.00 from A3620.4 to A-1620.4

$100.00 from A-3620.4 to A-1920.4

$1100.00 from A-3620.4 to A-5010.4

$300.00 from A-5010.2 to A-5010.4

$400.00 from A-5132.4 to A-5010.4

$600.00 from A-7510.4 to A-7510.1

$300.00 from A-7510.4 to A-7510.1

$3373.00 from A-1990.4 to A-1930.4

$620.00 from DA-5142.2 to DA-5130.4

Motion by Councilman Heinemann, seconded by Parsels authorizing for employees to go to NYC for meetings. All in favor. Carried.

The Annual meeting of the Association of Towns of the State of New York will be held in NYC on February 17 thru 20, 2008. The board requested that all officials who would be interested in attending the meeting and participating in the educational courses offered inform the Supervisor.

Upon motion by Douglas Heinemann, seconded by Ken Parsels and unanimously passed, Town Attorney Karl Anderson was authorized to attend

the association of Towns

Annual Meeting, attend courses for Town Attorneys and other schooling provided at the time, and is appointed delegate to the Association's meetings.

Much discussion with various visitors concerning a variety of subjects and concerns occurred throughout the meeting.

A reorganizational meeting for the Town board was scheduled for January 7, 2008 at the Town offices, 3 Chase Street, Avoca, NY at 7 p.m. The meeting will be for the annual reorganization and appointment of expiring terms. Also at that time a report may be given to the Board regarding the year end financial's. Motion by Councilman Parsels, seconded by Councilman Heinemann approving the above mentioned meeting.

Motion by Supervisor Wellington, seconded by Councilman Parsels approving to adjourn at

9:30 p.m. All in favor.