Marbletown, NY - CDC Minutes

CDC May Meeting Minutes: May 12, 2005

Opening Statements and welcome from Lou Cardinale occurred at 7:09 pm.

Peter Fairweather, the consultant hired to help with our survey, was
introduced and described the "broad brush" survey process in which we
are engaged. At a meeting with the subcommittee in March, Peter had
proposed a "listening tour" of the various "stake holding" groups
(seniors, property tax task force, youth, emergency services,
"weekenders", etc.) in the town over the next six months. The intent
would be to learn what the concerns of the townspeople might be prior to
finalizing the survey, to learn what the "big questions" are, and the
issues that no one has thought about. Peter then suggested that, after
administering and collating the survey next spring, we engage in a
"speaking tour" reporting and discussing the results. We gave Peter the
questions that had been prepared by the Property Tax Task Force. Brooke
and Carl had already spoken with Senior Citizens in February so the
listening tour has begun. Lou has given us the dates of the Lamontville
Fire company and Marbletown First Aid meeting nights. It remains to be
determined who and when we will be meeting with the other special
interest groups.

Jenna reported on the Trails Committee projects. She indicated that
there is good and bad news about the survey of the trail. The good news
is that, through the good offices of Dave Sheeley, Highway
Superintendent of Ulster Co, the survey of the property lines and trail
is half way completed. The bad side is that it is still not finished.
Jenna reported that one of the property owners, Ms. Switzer has agreed
to sign the paperwork permitting permanent easement of the trail as it
passes her property at the old railroad station near route 213 in High
Falls. Jenna also indicated that the connection with UCCC from the trail
is still in the works. There is also some question about access through
the apple orchard and the property owner permission. The NY State grant
of $160,000 still has not been spent.

Lou reported on Emergency Services. Jim and Dan are still working on
getting the various companies together to discuss improving the
emergency services and whether consolidation is a viable option in the
town. Lou had been asked to be interviewed about the difficulties facing
emergency services concerning recruitment of new members by the Blue
Stone Press. Lou suggested that the Blue Stone Press highlight a young
volunteer fireman Paul Bogart and he was highligted in the latest issue.
Lou and Steve are trying to get an
assembly at the high school to encourage more students to join the
various companies. The school is willing to offer community service
credit, but, as of yet, the assembly has not been organized. This is one
of the real issues facing the town: volunteers for the emergency
services have not increased with the influx of population. Lou reported
that Senator Schumer is sponsoring tax credit legislation as a way to
encourage people to volunteer for emergency service.

Reverend Bob reported for Historic Preservation. At the last HP meeting
discussion focused on the need for a local law concerning protections
for properties designated as "historic". Although designation of a
property as a "historic site" enhances its value, there apparently can
be a conflict in historic districts between preservation and property
rights. According to Rev. Bob, New York State has a "boiler plate" law
that can be adapted to "content specific" issues about this by the Town
of Marbletown. A town forum with presentation to the Town Board is part
of the education process. Rev. Bob also reported that the Marbletown
Chamber Arts Festival is having its first opening concert Memorial Day
weekend at the Marbletown Reformed Church.

Vin Martello reported on Senior/affordable housing. There have been 4
meetings with RUPCO (Rural Ulster Preservation Company ) discussing what
Marbletown can do to encourage the opportunity for affordable housing.
RUPCO will talk with funding sources and will report to the Town Board
in the next month.

Town Board Report. Vin noted that new software had been purchased to
help organize and coordinate building, planning and zoning department
and make them fully integrated. The transfer station roof is almost completed.
The Community Center annex project, when finished, is targeted to cost $60,000.
Kurt Sutherland donated the architectural design. Conservation
subdivision designs are being incorporated into Town law. There is
a needs assessment of the Town Hall and offices to determine whether
more space is needed. A grant for improving the playground at the park
has been applied for, with possible award by the summer.

Maggie reported on the Environmental Commission. They organized two Open
Space forums. A final study prepared by the Conway School is expected.
The ECC received 2 grants and is collaborating with the Town of
Rochester on its aquifer study. The ECC aquifer study recommendations
will be developed by the local ordinance into moderating uses in high
recharge areas. It will also provide guidelines where development would
be best.

There were no reports from Arts and Growers.

Adjournment at 8:55