2014-04-07 - Mtg 14 REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 871
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING MTG#14
APRIL 7, 2014 RES#120-127
7:00 P.M. B.H. 6-8
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
SUPERVISOR JOHN STROUGH
COUNCILMAN ANTHONY METIVIER
COUNCILMAN BRIAN CLEMENTS
COUNCILMAN DOUG IRISH
COUNCILMAN WILLIAM VANNESS
TOWN COUNSEL
ROBERT HAFNER
PRESS
POST STAR, LOOK TV
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE LED BY COUNCILMAN BRIAN CLEMENTS
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Opened meeting.
1.0 RESOLUTION ENTERING QUEENSBURY BOARD OF HEALTH
RESOLUTION NO. 120, 2014
INTRODUCED BY: Mr. Doug Irish
WHO MOVED FOR ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: Mr. William VanNess
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Queensbury hereby adjourns from Regular
Session and moves into the Queensbury Board of Health.
Duly adopted this 7th day of April, 2014, by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Metivier, Mr. Clements, Mr. Irish, Mr. VanNess, Mr. Strough
NOES: None
AB SENT:None
QUEENSBURY BOARD OF HEALTH
PUBLIC HEARING SEWAGE DISPOSAL VARIANCE APPLICATION ADIRONDACK
MOUNTAIN RIDGE ESTATES, LLC
PUBLICATION DATE: MARCH 29, 2014
ATTORNEY STEPHANIE BITTER AND DEVIN DICKINSON PRESENT
ATTORNEY BITTER-As you are aware we started this application in February. The project
actually started with a conventional septic system seeking five septic variances. On March 10th
we had a public hearing and heard comments and suggestions from the board as well as from the
neighbors. We then understood that they had concerns relative to the proximity of the system as
well as the lines. On March 11th, Councilman Irish and Councilman VanNess were nice enough
to do a site visit with us and the neighbors, at which time we got to discuss the design as well as
some suggestions; we sent Devin home to sharpen his pencil and look at the design a little
further. The Town Board was nice enough to meet with us for a workshop to discuss the
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 872
proposal and possible modifications to the plan, which brings us here this evening. We listened
to those concerns and made modifications and come tonight with an Eljen System proposal. This
Eljen System still maintains that 100 foot setback to the existing well. It is in a similar location,
but because it is smaller in size it is able to maintain that 10 foot setback to North Tract
Properties, LLC, which was the neighbor who was concerned at the last public hearing. We are
seeking a variance from the setback property line to the north of the system, we are proposing a
two foot setback on that northern property line. The applicant also moved the effluent lines away
from the southern property line. Again, the neighbor that was concerned and moved it closer to
the house so the variance being sought is to place that line 1 foot to the existing house, the
applicants house. In addition to the concerns that were raised the applicant is also proposing to
incase the Effluent Line as well as put a 10 foot portion of pavement over the gravel drive where
the line is going to cross, those additional safeguards, again addressing the concerns raised. To
give an overview because we understand that this is a public hearing, the structure on the site is
modest in size. It is a small cottage, three bedroom,1,050 square feet in size. It was constructed
over 70 years ago. The applicant is trying to put some updates and modifications and renovate
the structured in order to do that they need to upgrade the septic system, which brings us to the
variances that we are seeking this evening. In order to do these improvements this variance has
to be sought and achieved. We have reduced the number of variances from five to now two and
added these safeguards as I just identified. We are also incorporating a landscaping buffer to
decrease any visual impact to the proposed septic system, it has also been incorporated in the
application that is being presented. Without this variance there will be an unnecessary hardship
that will result to the applicant in depriving them of the reasonable use for the property without
being able to renovate the structure. No variances leads to no renovations. With these
modifications and safeguards there will not be a material detriment to Chapter 136 or to the
adjoining property lines. I am going to turn it over to Devin to just highlight where those
variances are that are being sought.
DEVIN DICKINSON-The two variances that we seek this is the one foot separation distance to
the existing house. This is the two feet on the northerly property line to lands of Nally. Again,
for the board this is a one foot separation from the effluent line to the house. This is the two foot
separation to the northerly property line from the adsorption bed.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Thank you. Are there any questions from the members of the Town
Board?
COUNCILMAN VANNESS-I want to thank you for your diligent work. Everybody putting
their heads together up there I think it worked to the best of everyone up there. We spoke about
getting an opportunity to speak to the residents to the north. I know you said they were up there
they didn't have a problem.
ATTORNEY BITTER-We had originally corresponded with them on the original plan they
didn't have any concerns that came to the public.
COUNCILMAN VANNESS-I thank the Didio's for their help with it, too.
COUNCILMAN IRISH-I would agree with Bill. I think that having the chance to go up there
with the both of you and the Didio's and have a discussion about what could or could not occur
there that was very helpful thanks for moving that forward for us.
COUNCILMAN CLEMENTS-I went up also in the morning. I think the plan is much better. I
see on the east side and the south side you are in compliance now so you do not need those
variances I think that it's good covering the line and doing that I think is a good idea.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Any members of the public who wish to speak to this application
sewer variance is that Joe Didio.
JOE DIDIO, MEMBER OF CASA LA ROCCE, LLC-I live full time in Dunham's Bay in Lake
George. Number one, we appreciate you guys stopping up making the effort, it really meant a lot
to us. This plan certainly looks good, my son who is the environmental scientist who was here
earlier knows the Eljen System pretty well he has a couple of concerns. One that they have
created a turnaround area there where a protected sleeve has stopped. If you look at this plan
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here, the protected sleeve wherever that line is ends prior to the parking so we are a bit afraid that
the line may, because you will be turning around heavy trucks in there I am sure they will and
other folks will as well so just to protect that sleeve. The Eljen bed is fine. Again, it is a
tremendous improvement, they do tend to fail. I think the guarantee on them is maybe ten years
or something like that, fifteen years possibly. The only concern maybe that if they can put a non-
permeable barrier around the existing, I don't know if they are going to be treated lumber or
block or whatever because basically sewage or septic could, if it did fail leak out the side that is
just a comment from Andy. If it is possible I would love to see that and again just that protected
sleeve, but otherwise we appreciate everyone's effort.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-You said you would like the protected sleeve extended a little
further into the driveway?
MR. DIDIO-Across the road. They have paved the area so that should protect it somewhat, but
that parking area where people will turn around, I am sure heavy trucks in there, whatever, that
could still crush that line.
COUNCILMAN VANNESS-John is that something that we can address in this public hearing
and hopefully get it settled before we move it forward.
TOWN COUNSEL, HAFNER-Yes you could if that is agreeable to you and the applicant.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Anyone else from the public like to speak to this application the
sewer variance request? Seeing none would the applicant and the applicant's agent return to the
desk.
MR. DICKINSON-I did some calculations on those lines in the sleeve there. We can certainly
extend the sleeve, I don't think it is necessary even with nine inches of cover, we have like a
thirty times factor of safety on that. It is not that much further, it is not a big additional cost we
can definitely do it, it is only another fifteen or twenty feet. As far as the life expectancy there is
a life expectancy in every system this is seasonal, it gets a lot of time to rest in between usage.
Also dose, which helps the whole system, gets time to operate and rest in between.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-That is true.
MR. DICKINSON-I don't love the idea of putting a non-permeable fabric in there air is all part
of this. It is not something I really want to do if I don't have to, to be honest with you.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-How does the board feel about that? There are two issues. One is
extending the pipe under the driveway for the entire length of where cars might be parked,
almost up to the Eljen System. The other one is putting some kind of a permeable barrier around
it. If I speak for myself I can see the pipe, but not convinced that the other is....
COUNCILMAN VANNESS-I agree with you. I agree with you on the air, that the air has to get
to it. Being it is a three season residence, it is going to have time to work. I think we have all
worked through a lot of issues going on through this thing. If that is the only one that is going to
be the holdout; I personally don't have a problem supporting it, I think we can move forward
with it.
MR. DICKINSON-Oxygen is a big component in the whole treatment.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-The Eljen Systems are very good, very efficient systems. Like you
say, it is seasonal so I think you will get more than ten years out of it.
MR. DICKINSON-Yeah, I would expect so.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-How about this side?
COUNCILMAN CLEMENTS-I don't have a problem with it. I think they should extend the
line, I think that it is a good idea underneath the parking area.
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SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Is there a motion to approve this request along with the amended
versions saying that the pipe will be extended to the end of the parking area?
COUNCILMAN IRISH-Can we hear what Bob would say?
TOWN COUNSEL, HAFNER-In the last resolved, we already had a contingent upon the merger
of the deeds, which was something that we discussed at the last meeting. I just added a clause to
the end of this resolved right after where it says Town Counsel. Also it is contingent upon the
sleeve surrounding the pipe to extend past the driveway and parking area.
RESOLUTION APPROVING ADIRONDACK MOUNTAIN RIDGE
ESTATES, LLC'S APPLICATION FOR
SANITARY SEWAGE DISPOSAL VARIANCES
RESOLUTION NO.: BOH 6,2014
INTRODUCED BY: Mr.William VanNess
WHO MOVED ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: Mr.Doug Irish
WHEREAS, Adirondack Mountain Ridge Estates, LLC filed an application for variances from
provisions of the Town of Queensbury On-Site Sewage Disposal Ordinance, Chapter 136 to place the:
1. Effluent Line one foot (1') from the existing house in lieu of the required ten feet (10')
setback;and
2. Elijen System two feet (2') from the northerly property line in lieu of the required ten feet
(10') setback;
on property located at 85 Hanneford Road in the Town of Queensbury,and
WHEREAS,the Town Clerk's Office published the Notice of Public Hearing in the Town's official
newspaper and the Local Board of Health duly conducted a public hearing concerning the variance requests
on Monday,April 7th,2014,and
WHEREAS,the Town Clerk's Office has advised that it duly notified all property owners within 500
feet of the subject property,
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED,that
1. due to the nature of the variances,the Local Board of Health determines that the variances would
not be materially detrimental to the purposes and objectives of this Ordinance or other adjoining
properties nor otherwise conflict with the purpose and objectives of any Town plan or policy;
and
2. the Local Board of Health finds that the granting of the variances is necessary for the reasonable
use of the land and is the minimum variances which would alleviate the specific unnecessary
hardship found by the Local Board of Health to affect the applicant;and
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 875
BE IT FURTHER-
RESOLVED, that the Local Board of Health hereby approves the application of Adirondack
Mountain Ridge Estates for variances from the Sewage Disposal Ordinance to place the:
1. Effluent Line one foot (1') from the existing house in lieu of the required ten feet (10')
setback,and
2. Elijen System two feet (2') from the northerly property line in lieu of the required ten feet
(10') setback,
on property located at 85 Hanneford Road in the Town of Queensbury and bearing Tax Map No.: 227.18-1-
30 and 31,and
BE IT FURTHER-
RESOLVED, that this Resolution is contingent upon the applicant recording a deed merging both
parcels into one parcel and providing proof of such recorded deed of merger referencing this Resolution
satisfactory to the Town's Director of Building and Codes Enforcement and Town Counsel and also it is
contingent upon the sleeve surrounding the pipe to extend past the driveway and parking area.
Duly adopted this 7 t day of April,2014,by the following vote:
AYES : Mr. Clements,Mr. Irish,Mr. VanNess,Mr. Strough,Mr. Metivier
NOES : None
ABSENT: None
RESOLUTION SETTING PUBLIC HEARING ON SEWAGE DISPOSAL
VARIANCE APPLICATION OF STEPHEN O'LEARY
RESOLUTION NO.: BOH 7,2014
INTRODUCED BY: Mr.Doug Irish
WHO MOVED ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: Mr.William VanNess
WHEREAS, the Queensbun- Town Board serves as the Town's Local Board of Health and is
authorized bv Town Code Chapter 136 to issue variances from the Town's On-Site Sewage Disposal
Ordinance,and
WHEREAS, Stephen O'Leary has applied to the Local Board of Health for variances from Chapter
136 to install a new on-site replacement wastewater treatment system as follows:
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1. Septic tank to be 2' from the dwelling instead of the required 10' setback;
2. Fill system to be 0' from the property line instead of the required 10' setback;and
3. Vertical separation distance from bottom of wastewater treatment sand bed to bedrock
within 1,000' of Lake George,to be 2.5' instead of the required 3' setback;
on property located at 77 Bra-don Lane, Queensbun
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Town of Queensbury's Local Board of Health will hold a public hearing on
Monday, April 21St, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. at the Queensbury Activities Center, 742 Bay Road, Queensbun% to
consider Stephen O'Leary's sewage disposal variance application concerning property located at 77 Bra-don
Lane, Queensbury(Tax Map No.: 239.12-2-87)and at that time all interested persons will be heard,and
BE IT FURTHER-
RESOLVED, that the Local Board of Health authorizes and directs the Queensbury Town Clerk to
publish the Notice of Public Hearing presented at this meeting and send a copy of the Notice to neighbors
located within 500' of the applicant's property as required by law.
Duly adopted this 7 t day of April,2014,by the following vote:
AYES : Mr. Irish,Mr. VanNess,Mr. Strough,Mr. Metivier,Mr. Clements
NOES : None
ABSENT: None
RESOLUTION ADJOURNING QUEENSBURY BOARD OF HEALTH
RESOLUTION NO. BOH 8, 2014
INTRODUCED BY: Mr. Doug Irish
WHO MOVED FOR ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: Mr. Brian Clements
RESOLVED, that the Queensbury Board of Health hereby adjourns and moves back into the
Town Board of the Town of Queensbury.
Duly adopted this 7th day of April, 2014, by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. VanNess, Mr. Strough, Mr. Metivier, Mr. Clements, Mr. Irish
NOES: None
AB SENT:None
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 877
2.0 PUBLIC HEARING
PUBLIC HEARING PROPOSED LOCAL LAW OF 2014 LOCAL LAW
ESTABLISHING LAWN FERTIZLER AND PESTICIDE RUNOFF CONTROL
RESTRICTIONS
PUBLICATION DATE: MARCH 28, 2014
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-It is a public hearing and it is only going to be a public hearing. We
will not take any action on this tonight because it is being reviewed by New York State DEC.
When we hear back from them we may make alterations as needed to satisfy the State. If the
State is happy with it as is, the board may make further alternations. Tonight is a mere public
hearing, so I see some people probably want to speak to this, you are welcome to come forward.
Anybody from the public like to speak to the proposed changes in the Town Law on Fertilizer
Control Restrictions?
LISA ADAMSON, ASSEMBLY POINT-I am here with some residents from the east side of the
lake in North Queensbury and also representing a number of people who are in contact with us
who can't be here in strong favor of the board passing these revisions to the present fertilizer
ordinance. First of all, I just want to express to you all that we are very grateful that you have
done the work that you have done to date in looking at these revisions, we thank you very much
for that work. We all think that this is a very critical and timely revision. I feel that if you all do
go ahead and pass this, that you will be setting the bar for the other Town's around Lake George
specifically, but for all the water bodies concerned within North Queensbury. My understanding
is that other Town's, even as soon as next week will be beginning to get this on their agendas.
The Town of Queensbury has classically, especially with this issue for Lake George, been a
leader. I think that this revision is very critical to have as a lake wide standard. I am not an
expert, but from listening to experts and scientist, I think that the only way we can hope to be
stemming the degeneration that we are seeing in Lake George specifically, but our upstate
wetlands and water bodies and streams is through strongly enforcing stated articulated
ordinances in addition to resident cooperation. I just mostly wanted to voice on behalf of people
that there is a strong support for this and thank you again.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Anybody else wish to speak to this
DAVE LINEHAN, EMPLOYEE OF JIM GIRARD LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE
CORPORATION AND JIM HUNT, 53 BOULEVARD PRESIDENT OF TREE CARE BY
STAN HUNT
MR. LINEHAN-The two of us thought we would come together. We very much like to
appreciate the opportunity to comment on the law to review it again. I was here when you
originally passed the law back in 2011 and I appreciated the time there. I think as a member of
another community, I think Queensbury is looked up to as a big sister. You guys are all forward
thinking this law is very critical. I think Jim Girard, Jim and myself we have a beautiful lake up
there, Lake George, Glen Lake, Lake Sunnyside all these water bodies that we have it is
important that we preserve them to the best way we can. We think what we do is the right thing
to do; to do the maintenance the lawn care that we do the total maintenance and lawn care. Our
particular company actually not only treats lawns to make sure that it is vigorously growing and
healthy, but also removes clippings that may have those nutrients that are uptake from the soil.
We actually take them right out of the basins and compost them off site. I don't know if that was
one thing that was considered initially, but maybe that could be considered later on that there are
certain parcels that do, do a complete maintenance program. I think first, a little housekeeping, I
want to make sure that everybody got materials that I sent out on Friday. I did send some emails
out and there is a letter from myself as a Certified Commercial Pesticide Applicator. There was
also a list of findings just a rough going over the law itself just to give you some ideas of where
we think it might be lacking. I didn't get into specific details, but there maybe even some errors
in the law. So, I gave you that the findings. There was a summary of a study that was done at the
University of Florida. I have a copy of that, which I might like to go over and entered into the
minutes that was also submitted, I think in 2011, John you spent some time looking at the
studies. It just basically said that in the summertime fertilizers bans may not be a quick fixed
solution. There might be unintended consequences of not taking care of a lawn and keeping it
healthy. Basically, properly maintained lawns and landscapes provide excellent soil erosion
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control enhance entrapment an uptake of nutrients, nitrogen and phosphorus can improve aquifer
recharge. Again, to speak to that issue about clippings or not clippings there is also some
additional science. One of the authors here is Marty Petrovic, Cornell University our land grant
institution so I would also like to enter that into the record. Maybe Karen you can pick that up, I
will give you a copy of that. I have electronic copies of these so if anyone wants those I can do
that. There were three things on Friday that I sent out via email, then this afternoon I also sent
out a document that was send to the Vandervort Group. I believe after the law was passed just
asking about some sections of the law that industry people think that was preempted by Article
33 of the DEC Law. I like to agree with everything the individual said before about preserving
Lake George, it is very critical. Like I said, you are forward thinking it is a blessed lake. I think
both Jim Hunt, myself, Jim Girard anyone pellet of either phosphorus or nitrogen or any other
nutrient in Lake George is one pellet too many. We do appreciate you trying to expand the
restrictions, but at the same time I think it is important to recognize that there are professionals
certified by the department that have to comply with a myriad of papers, regulations, record
keeping in addition to sending in those report to the Department of Environmental Conservation.
That was the reason for my initial letter that I sent to you on Friday, which I asked the Town
Board to consider and exempt all application requirements from Chapter 107 in the Queensbury
Town Code other than all requirements found in the New York State Environmental Title 21,
Article 17, which meets the same intentions. The exemption would be for duly certified
applicators of registered businesses that provide DEC acceptable service contracts only; and who
need to comply with all state regulations that in their entirety exceed the requirements of the
Town both existing and proposed of Chapter 107, Lawn and Fertilizer and Pesticide Runoff
Control. I am hoping that you may consider that down the road. I think our goal here tonight, Jim
and myself is to see if whether or not we can maybe hold a workshop and go over some of the
issues that we are concerned about none the less of which is neighbors having to enforce it. I
totally agree with the comments made that there needs to be some outreach as well as some
enforcement, other than neighbors speaking to neighbors. Back in the day, Assembly Point, for
example, individual's gathered there on a Sunday to kind of get together and talk about things on
the point. Nowadays, it seems they talk about things and you are not sure that at the end of the
day what they are arguing about. You know what is being done on their particular property, so I
think the outreach is very important. The other aspect is I want to make sure the Town takes into
consideration the entire universe of residential lawn applicators that is stated in the law. It
actually has the definition in an Article 33 Part 325, which are the regulations that come from
Article 33 of Environmental Conservation Law, so that does have a definition. That means
anybody that applies a chemical including a pesticide to a lawn would be included. Just over the
weekend I went to some of the garden centers to look and see what the signage was that is
required of this Article 17. That really gives you the authority to make more restrictive laws
governing these nutrients, phosphorus in particular. It is called the Detergent Law or the
Phosphorus Law in the DEC Law, which is Article 17 not Article 33. I went around a few of the
stores just to see what the signage might be if you go to the DEC website they have a fairly good
description of the Detergent and Phosphorus Law. I have a copy of what it is the bottom part of
the page is what the DEC recommends that these retailers have. I think if the Town goes
forward and makes these additional restrictions and sets that requirement it would behoove the
board to include this entire universe, those people that do residential lawn applications, but
because of service fees are apt to begin to want to do it themselves the do- it- yourselfers. If there
isn't a signage at the point of purchase, I think it is very unfair to those people that are going
there to purchase a grub control or a weed and feed or combination fertilizer package and then
find out from his neighbor that he is not going to be able to apply that particular chemical
because he doesn't have the required setbacks of his small property. With that, I went around,
the signage just didn't seem to be there I don't know if it is a lack of resources on the States
part, why it is not enforced a little bit more, but there were none of these signs. There was
signage in one business that I went to, but it was more that it followed the Article 33 segment of
law and not the Article 17, which is what you all are addressing here with the new law. I want to
enter this also as part of the record some things that maybe the State should do for a particular
sign for a garden center then in addition what language might have to be necessary if the Town is
required to do that. Keeping in mind that people that come here to service individuals within the
Town might not be from the Town of Queensbury, they might be from further down services that
might be from Albany and come here and not know the regulations. I think there should be a
bare minimum, like the speaker said before, to begin to enlighten those people as to what the
requirements are that the Town, and in addition to what the state already requires. I think that is
about all I have. I did review the minutes from last meeting and I was wondering why certain
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sections, even the Attorney had some comments and why those weren't addressed. That will
probably come out in the states review. I was concerned, I did foil last year for the comments
that did come from the Department of Environmental Conservation. I was concerned that they
were a little brief for what the Town is intending to do, especially with regards to maybe soil
topography, soils types, topography. If a site was less than two percent, if a guy had a lawn that
was in the range of two or three percent, it was less chance of runoff that those would be
considered, those areas of the Town would be considered and be somewhat perhaps exempt from
the area. The other areas I am concerned about is, what exactly the definition of regulated
surface water might be. John you had an interview with the Post Star, there was an issue at the
Hobby Lobby. You very carefully described the train of events how that water moved out of the
low impact development device and into the pipe near the spring and into the stream then into
the Cemetery pond then into Hovey Pond, which I thought was very good all along the way there
is that opportunity for the contaminant to get absorb then down the road get maintained. Even a
lawn a residential lawn needs to be maintained. Again, if you do have that total lawn care
package, often times we are taking away the leaves and the natural debris that would build up
that also goes out of the watershed. I think that is all I have; I think the state was a little light on
the definition of what a lawn is. I firmly believe that it is a type of filter strip on these parcels. I
think they are quite important. I think it is important to keep them maintained as best as we can.
If anybody has any questions I could answer them or we can setup a workshop.
COUNCILMAN IRISH-I don't have a question as much as a comment. I got Jims email, but I
don't think I got an email from you Dave.
COUNCILMAN VANNESS-I don't think I got it either?
COUNCILMAN IRISH-It is just dougiggueensbury net.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-I did and I will make sure they each get a copy of everything you
submitted in their mailbox.
MR. LINEHAN-My computer there was real, some lettering on my email thing so I was having
trouble, I misspelled Queensbury.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Oh, you don't want to do that.
COUNCILMAN VANNESS-I just want to say John we had several workshops on this and
talked about it individually with each other. Even in the exemption part of it, making a new
lawn, building a new turf, being able to prove our Code Enforcement Officer that the lawn that
needs emergency attention we have allowed for certain situations, like that to say, okay if you
were to come to Dave and just say this is what happening this is what I need done. With your
suggestions, I mean being professional, both of you in that line gives us a little more to look at a
little more to think about.
MR. LINEHAN-That is an interesting point because some things are an emergency.
COUNCILMAN VANNESS-Right.
MR. LINEHAN-Some things are almost prophylactic. You are planning ahead. You know there
was an issue there last year so some of these chemicals you put down in anticipation that
something bad might happen. There are diseases that might come up within twenty-four hours,
we would have to have an officials phone number maybe to do that type of application if we
were worried about a fungus.
COUNCILMAN VANNESS-If you look at the exemptions of 107-7 it gives you the exemptions
of where you....
MR. LINEHAN-That is what we would want to tackle. We would like one additional exemption
that is to exempt those of us that are certified by the Department of Environmental Conservation.
Those of us, who are trained recertified every year, pay our fees, do our record keeping, and send
in those reports.
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 880
MR. HUNT-The point I wanted to make and Dave has made almost every one of them except to
tell them the last time we performed together was Junior High Band in the trombone section and
that's true. Dave's recent point about what we do it is a lot of work to run a government and to
protect the lake, but that is exactly what we have been doing for thirty years. We've withstood
many many changes in the laws and the way we have had to do business neither company has
shirked their responsibility. We have changes and we have changed with the times, but so too
have the companies like Bayer and Glaxo Smith Kline the companies that build and make the
drugs that we all take are the same companies that build and make the products that we are
talking about they have made thirty years of tremendous progress specifically in Lake George.
The backward part of Lake George progress was algae, but the chemical cleaning and the
changes in the aquifer and the animals and birds that live around there has been extraordinary. I
guess my point was very simple if you have any more workshops, I like you to include us
because I would like to make you aware not only of what we do and how we are trained, you can
call us an expert if you'd like, but we really do have to put forth a tremendous amount of effort
very specifically in using these products. For example, five years ago manufacturers began
selling us fertilizer without phosphorus long before this law became a law, so they saw the
handwriting on the wall and they changed before we did as a government. The products that we
do use are used differently they are used with very specific regard to how the label reads. I don't
know if all of you do your own lawns I am not certainly here making a pitch for us to do the
lawns, but if you read the label carefully you will find some extraordinary information and that is
you can't just use it wherever you want to, however, you want to. You will also find is the letter
I sent to John the words that are there say it is a violation of Federal Law to use this product in a
manner inconsistent with the way it is labeled. That goes for Clorox, that goes for most of your
soaps, your waxes and most everything you use in the home. That federal thing is there that
statement is there.
MR. LINEHAN-If I could just add, I was reading a label just recently it said that for best results
contact your Cooperative Extension Agent to find out the best window for application. To his
points those things are in the label. I do not know how many people read the label they are
certainly not reading any signs because the sign is not up.
MR. HUNT-My take home message here is simple. We know the rules to the extent that we
know the rules. We know the products and believe me the people that we work for on Lake
George, Glen Lake, Lake Sunnyside all have the same point of view. They have the same point
of view that you do, that these folks do, and we do, keep it clean, do it right, play by the rules, so
we want to do that. What we want to be part of is how you educate the community on what their
part is in this and how you regulate what they do so there is a little education that has to be
involved. If we can get into these workshops with you, unless you have exhausted all of them,
we would prefer to do that; tell you what is required of us, how the product manufactures had an
increase in the viability of those products. What the public requests a recent publication of pest
control technology said forty nine percent of people with problems would prefer to have a
professional. My take home message to Dave for all these years is take these pesticides out of
the use of homeowners because they are not trained we are. So again, an exemption if it is in the
cards too, I would like to be included in the decision making process from here on out just so that
we are heard. We are not against any rules we are not against any changes heck we are not
against most anything we just want to be included in it. We think our expertise is invaluable
both to you the lawmakers and the general public.
MR. LINEHAN-Just one other point, Jim spoke to the label issue. This training that we need to
go through, we have to have so many credits in the period of three year's time. I forgot what
mine is, I think it is sixteen credits, sixteen hours. Some of the sessions that we go to are repeats,
some of them are very basic. The point I wanted to make is that science changes the science the
studies that we hear. Kathleen Bozony, last session back in 2011, did an excellent job. Emily
DeBolt did an excellent job speaking to the issue of soil having the phosphorus attach to those
soil particles being moved off site by erosion wind or rain. Those are the same things that we
learned. Of course, we are in favor of the lawns and the turf that keeps it in place, thinking that
events like Hurricane Irene or Floyd way back when, they stand up better than the tree that falls
down and the roots get up and are exposed to the rain that ends up in the lake. The point I
wanted to make is that science is both a tool and a toy, it is constantly updated. These renewals
this recertification that we go through is very important, but we do rely heavily on our Land
Grant College, Cornell University for example their turf program the expert there that takes care
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 881
of Yankee Stadium that is what we rely on for the science. I will make sure Karen gets a copy of
the clipping article.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Yes, also for the sake of the public there is no restriction in here on
pesticides that doesn't already exist at the State level. We're prohibited as a local government to
make pesticides rule more restrictive than the State rules. We are allowed to make fertilizer rules
that are more prohibited than the State rules. This discussion on pesticides and this particular
law this particular law doesn't add any more restrictions than those that are already there on the
State level.
MR. LINEHAN-I just want to point out that some of those products are combination products so
you get into the pesticide applications and being trained in that and knowing what those labels
require looking at them in a little bit greater detail.
MR. HUNT-That is why we want to get involved in the workshop so you understand that when I
use the word product I am really referring to it as it can be fertilizer or pesticide or combination.
Of course, the law does say, title of the law is Fertilizer and Pesticide Runoff. Our inference is
that we're being targeted more than what is fair for us to be targeted visa vie all the other rules
that have taken place. With that said, most of the combinations that people buy, if I could tell
you for a moment how they keep track at the State level of what is bought and where people get
their information, let me give you a quick example. It varies from the side of the house at my
shop to the other side of the house. For example, if I come and spray your tree and I have used
thirty two ounces of a product for a hundred gallons I have to report the number of fluid ounces
per gallon so it would be three point two fluid ounces per gallon those are liquid chemicals. If I
come and fertilizer your lawn with Holtz pre-emerging crabgrass material and fertilizer the pre-
emerging crabgrass material is a prodamine at thirty eight one hundreds of a percent of volume
of weight. So thirty eight one hundredths of fifty is what one and a half pounds per fifty gallon
bags so if you look for the active ingredient the answer is one and a half pounds. No, no, no, no,
no, DEC will not let you report it that way they make you report the fifty pounds. When it is all
said and done at the end of the day if you used two hundred pounds, which are four bags rather
than being able to report accurately in my mind loftily that you use four and a half pounds you
have to report that you use two hundred. Where does that information go, who uses it and what
it is for? It has been on the books seventeen years, they are thinking about cancelling it. It used
to go to Albany then to China, it would be gone for three to four years while they input it at
China here is the intent. Breast cancer and testicular cancer awareness in the State of New York,
who can argue against that? We didn't even argue against it. However, but when you pulled the
data and if you are against fertilizer what you are going to find is the number one used product
with an insecticides in it is fertilizer with pre-emerging crabgrass. We don't have a problem with
people keeping track, but do it fairly and do it according to what we think and that is where we
come into this situation not that we are going to try and bend your arms in any way we just want
to be heard.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-There are nine exemptions, but you and I probably wouldn't be
having this discussion if everyone abided by one of the exemptions. That is if you put a buffer in
a buffer standard that meets 179-8-40 you can use there are no restrictions.
MR. LINEHAN-We know that.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Having that permeable buffer between the lawn and the lake solves
the problems.
MR. LINEHAN-When I was looking at the different chemicals over the weekend there was one
there that was a bag of mulch that had a chemical in it that keeps the weeds from coming up.
How is that going to work?
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-That wouldn't work. Thanks for giving us the idea for a new
restriction we have to add.
MR. LINEHAN-I am all for it you wouldn't want that thing from the buffer moving into the lake
because it carries a chemical. In the Article 33 there is a section where it gets into notification
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 882
the idea is if the neighbor is the keeper of the lawn how he is applying the material. We believe
the purview of the Commissioner of DEC and that is what that transmittal was about.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-I saw the letter from the DEC taking a look at that and we will
probably hear about that from them one way or the other.
MR. LINEHAN-Again, I am anxious to find out, I did foil for the comments once it does come
back from the DEC. My hope is that the DEC will look at this a little more critically, a little bit
more on a local level. I started out investigating right here in Region 5 to see whether or not
those people there the department there at the local level were concerned enough about how this
law was going. The universe of who is being captured in it, who is actually going to have to obey
the law, and whether or not they could help be part of this workshop to make sure everything is
covered; that there is good outreach and to go over and make sure that the law is correct in
keeping with the enabling legislation, that is before you and I think you are right, it is the Article
17.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Thank you Dave and thank you Jim.
TOWN COUNSEL, HAFNER-Mr. Linehan, you mentioned lots of things that you want the
Town Clerk to have in the record. If you hand them to her, we will make sure that they get in and
nothing is missed.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-The label I like most is the one that says for indoor and outdoor use
only.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Anybody else like to speak to the proposed amendments in this law,
Chris.
CHRIS NAVITSKY, LAKE GEORGE WATERKEEPER-I would like to thank the Town of
Queensbury for their leadership on this important water quality issue. Several years ago then
Supervisor Stec stated the Town had set a high bar and challenged other Town's in the watershed
to meet the standard. With these proposed actions you continue to set a high standard for water
quality protection. Unfortunately the majority of the other Towns have not met your challenge,
but we will continue to advocate for the consistent adoption of these protective measures. We
support the important measure of implementing regulations applicable to regulated water bodies,
which include streams, tributaries, and wetlands. Streams are vital elements that determine the
health of any watershed and the recognition of intermittent streams which can be significantly
impacted as head waters of a watershed where runoff can consist of the majority if not all of the
flow as consistent with scientific research regarding volume, transport, and conveyance. A
question we continually receive from other municipalities within the watershed, Lake George
Watershed is the concern about enforcement of such regulation. Some questions we have for the
Town, I know this is public comment but maybe we can receive some feedback. Does the Town
of Queensbury have any information regarding the number of violations issued or enforcement
actions regarding Chapter 107 of the Lawn Fertilizer and Pesticide Runoff Control? How does
the Town approach enforcement of this Ordinance, can the Town share any experiences for the
implementation of successful program that we can share with other municipalities? Again, Lake
George Waterkeeper would like to thank the Town of Queensbury for the proactive measures
regarding water quality protection. Thank you.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Thank you Chris. Is there anyone else that would like to speak to
this?
BILLMASON, RESIDENT OF TOWN OF QUEENSBURY, CLEVERDALE-First of all, I
want to thank you for your effort on all of this. I appreciate the hard work that is. I know this is
very complicated. I also appreciate all of the words that everybody is speaking here tonight. I
think that outreach and education are critically important if there is one thing I learned from the
effort of Dave Wick at the Park Commission on the AIS deal is that the most important thing is
constant outreach and constantly educating people. I appreciate that this is very complicated you
won't get it perfect. I read the law it is not perfect in my mind, but it is a darn good start and
please keep up the work. Thank you.
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 883
KATHY BOZONY, BLUE LAKE GEORGE-I wanted to thank you for bringing this back to the
table. Queensbury was instrumental in being a forefront along with the Town and the Village of
Lake George to adopt a Fertilizer Restriction Law before New York State did. To come back in
and change the wording to say regulated water bodies to include our streams our wetlands, our
tributaries and our impervious surfaces is really critical. I do agree with the gentlemen that
spoke of the certified licensed applicators. I too fear homeowners and pesticides and fertilizers
in their hands without possibly reading directions. I do trust that these licensed applicators are
doing what they are supposed to be doing. If we look at the data base from DEC I believe the
last year that they accumulated data was 2005. If you go on you can see the many thousands and
thousands of pounds of pesticides only not fertilizers they are not recorded, but are required to be
recorded and documented by every licensed pesticide applicator. I know we have talked about
this 2011 University of Florida Study, I believe that was funded by Ortho or some Lawn Care
Company. As Mr. Strough said, the point is this the Adirondack Mountains we have an
oligotrophic lake that is teaming with growth right now from excess nutrients. The Fertilizer
Restriction Law is one way to try and halt that increasing growth of algae and our invasive
aquatic species. The buffer is really what we are trying to get people to understand. I have many
licensed applicators that have lawn care companies and maintenance business they say to me I
would much rather go in and encourage a buffer and plant that buffer for the homeowner rather
than putting chemicals on their lawn. I don't know if you all heard the study last week that they
are linking Alzheimer's disease to DDT. In the United States DDT has been banned for many
years, but a lot of countries that are supporting and supplying us with vegetables are still using
the product. The thing that was most alarming about this and I am sure you all know how
alarming Alzheimer's disease is the thing that came out of this study was the fact that yes, DDT
is being studied for causing these types of devastating diseases, but it is not just DDT it is
probably a lot other chemicals that are being used. As you may be aware on your pesticide
application or on the labels the only product that is labeled there is the active portion of the
ingredient. Many of these combined products for lawn fertilizer phosphorus free, which it has
been for years ever since I starting looking at this in 2008 they all have been phosphorus free. A
phosphorus free fertilizer with a chemical for grub killing or whatever, crabgrass that type of
thing the only thing that is on that label is the active component of that ingredient and often that
in one percent of the product. We have no knowledge nor does the EPA require any of that
ninety nine percent of the inactive component of all these products that are going on our lawns to
be reported. There comes in twenty years from now we are going to come back in and we are
going to say, okay the chemicals in whatever are adding to our Alzheimer's and whatever else.
It is an alarming report that came out, and again it is not just about DDT it is about everything
else. DEC, I have spoken with them and they are in favor of this Lake George law they passed it
when you all passed it three years ago. They are still reporting it as it is written and again you've
changed the wording from Lake George and Sunnyside and Glen Lake to regulated water bodies
it is a terrific change The New York State Law that came out which our entire lake has adopted
the New York State Law mandatory. New York State Law came back with a twenty foot setback
for application of law fertilizers unless you use a drop spreader then you can apply that fertilizer
and pesticide within three feet of a water body. They have taken a law that twenty foot setback
is not nearly enough, fifty feet is not nearly enough. We are going with fifty feet because we
know we will have that much more opposition if it gets anything more scientifically responsible.
The key is, I understand healthy lawns are very important, but we are not promoting lawns here
we would really like to see people get back to the natural buffer the natural shoreline. If you
look at the shoreline even from the aerial you look at the shoreline that is a natural buffer it is a
whole different view than you do from the land use the developed area of the lake. I think that is
all I have to say I do really appreciate you bringing this back to the table and changing the
wording to make it much more effective. We are looking forward to the Town of Lake George
next Monday night, they also are having a public hearing. The Town of Lake George was
instrumental years ago, before New York State created this Fertilizer Restriction Law. They
adopted, they are on a twenty foot setback and we are hoping we can get them at a fifty foot
setback as well this is the start very very critical. Thank you so much.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Anyone else like to speak to this?
BEVERLY BOZY, HOMEOWNER ON THE SHORE OF LAKE GEORGE- WITHIN THE
QUEENSBURY JURISDICTION- My family has been there for sixty years, we boat, we swim,
we drink the water. Of course, we have a filtration system that works much more rapidly than
when we installed it twelve years ago. I fully support the efforts you are making to get a better
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 884
quality of water for everyone because it is a health issue and because it is a health thing my
family has never applied chemicals to the lawn. We work at it, but we don't apply chemicals
because there are health issues within the family and we don't want to maximize them. I just
want to say that I am very appreciative of the efforts that you are making. Yes, buffers we have
begun buffers along the edge this is the Adirondack Park do we really need lawns that look like a
golf course let's get back to being a park. Thank you.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Thank you Beverly, anybody else wish to speak to this?
RON BALL, QUEENSBURY-Everybody including me that spoke tonight seemed to be on
board with what you want to achieve. I haven't heard anybody say what would happen if you
didn't use the phosphorus. I am going to use Scott's for example; Scott's puts it in their starter
fertilizer. Do you think for one minute that they wouldn't put in there if it wasn't needed and I
can tell you some things that could happen if you don't use them? I am not sure, but I think I
seeded your lawn, right John?
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Yes you did Ron.
MR. BALL-I'm not going to say what kind of fertilizer I used.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-And you did a nice job, too. If you are starting a new lawn this
restriction doesn't apply.
MR. BALL-Right it doesn't. I understand you. Let me tell you an example of what happened on
Lake George. First off, I'm in the landscaping business. I retired from it, but we don't do
maintenance, we don't go out and do any fertilizing we just install lawns irrigations and whatnot.
On Lake George, I had a guy call me because I put his lawn in he called me a couple three years
ago. He had a steep grade going down to the lake and he had this path that the grass didn't come
back it was brown, real brown. I looked at it; it was early spring I said to him did you remove
the snow from it. He said yes my grandkids started a big snowball and they would roll in down
through there it picked up all the snow and it exposed the lawn. I said to him, I think what
happened is you have what we call a winter burn or winter kill if it is exposed and the snow is
both sides of it then it is being insulated it is very difficult to bring back. Here is the issue you
can try some starter fertilizer on it I would say rake it the best you can. Years ago, farmers used
to burn their lawn go out there burn the grass burn it all off, go into the barn, get some hay shaft
thrown it down. Boom their lawn would pop back up, no fertilizers, but today people are a little
more particular. Their houses, they think curb appeal. You want a really nice looking house, you
have to start with the lawn. To get back to this guy we raked it did the best we could. I said I
don't want to turn it over because if you turn this over or if you throw down some new soil on
there first time it rains that is going to be in the lake. There are a lot of times what we did with
houses on the lake that had the steep grades we used to sod real close to the lake so anything that
ran off from the higher points it would catch it with the sod that was maybe four or five feet wide
across their property at the lower point. So we tried fertilizers, it didn't work. So I said probably
the best thing to do is sod it, run a strip to sod down through there you just got to make good
contact with the soil you have to still put some starter fertilizer down, but it is not going to mask
the rest of your lawn. It is not going to mask the rest of your lawn not for a couple of years.
Eventually, with the proper fertilizers it will come back. What I am saying to you is if you don't
use phosphorus and starters fertilizers your lawns are going to start thinning out. Once they start
thinning out you are going to have erosion what happens with erosion is it is going to start
finding its way to the lowest point, which would be the lake because all houses are above sea
level. Consequently, this will erode down to the lake and now you are going to have the same
problem which this guy had where I had to go back and re-sod. If you don't use the phosphates
it is going to be difficult to keep a nice green lawn.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-This doesn't restrict phosphates because New York State Law
restricts them so we took that out.
MR. BALL-It is starter fertilizer.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Duly established lawns you are allowed to use it. Emergency
situations such as you just described you are allowed to use it. Soil test indicators you are
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 885
allowed to use it, agriculture uses and it goes on almost everything you mentioned it would allow
you to use....
MR. BALL-I am willing to bet Queensbury School, they've seeded that lawn at the Middle
School the parking lot they have seeded it twice, I saw them do it. I bet you both times they
didn't use starter fertilizer neither time did the lawn come in right and it always looked terrible
and it still does today. I don't like the way they drew up the parking lot, it is tough without an
irrigation system, that is not going to help with it. Lawns will start thinning out if you don't use
that phosphorus. Once they start thinning out the value of your home is going to go down, it is
not going to look as good and that is curb appeal. You have to weigh the situation.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-That is why you should put the buffer according to 179-8-40 and
then you won't have any of these problems. Put the buffer in.
MR. BALL-The buffer may work. It is hard to convince somebody when you got a million
dollars in a home.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-The buffers are beautiful.
MR. BALL-That is all I have to say.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Thank you Ron. Anybody else like to speak to the proposed
amendments to the law again. This law is the law that we adopted some years back. What we are
doing here is we are clarifying that tributaries to Lake George. Let me read it to you, natural
streams, tributaries, springs and wetland within the Lake George basin and it goes on has
languages that describes it as it is described in full contexts by the Lake George Park
Association. The other water bodies Glen Lake and Sunnyside for example it is a fifty foot
restriction just from the shoreline. It doesn't speak to their tributaries, this only speaks to Lake
George's tributaries. That is basically the difference we always had a fifty foot restriction this
just applies the restriction to the Lake George basin tributaries. Seeing no further comments from
the public, does the board have any other further comments; I will close the public hearing. I
have the right to reopen it should the need arise. We will wait for what New York State has to
say. I am going to share what Jim Hunt and Dave Linehan had given us. I know I have received
it, so I will make sure all the board members receive in addition to what you submitted tonight. I
will leave the public hearing open. We are going to have comments from the State, and I think
we are going to have additional comments from others as well.
PUBLIC HEARING TO REMAIN OPEN
MR. LINEHAN-Submitted articles as part of the record pertaining to public hearing, on file in
the Town Clerks Office.
3.0 PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR
HARRISON FREER-Spoke to board strongly in favor of Establishing and Adopting Sustainable
Complete Street Policy. Thanked the board for hosting the Complete Street Meetings.
CHRIS NAVITSKY, LAKE GEORGE WATERKEEPER-Spoke to the board regarding a letter
he sent to the Town regarding the Annual Low Impact Development Conference. It is an all-day
conference to be held on May 1St, 2014, put on by the Fund and Lake George Waterkeeper. We
bring national experts on low impact development and sustainable practices; we put this on for
free. We provide land use training credits that are necessary by the Department of State for all
board members so that Planning and Zoning Board members can get their credits that are needed.
The keynote speaker for this year will be David Crocket, a national leader in sustainability from
Tennessee a decedent of Davy Crocket. Spoke to the board noting his support for the
Establishment of the Adoption of Sustainable Complete Streets Policy. An important element of
Sustainable Complete Streets is the implementation of low impact development and sustainable
green infrastructure. It appears that the resolution does not recognize the need for these
environmental protection measures. He encouraged the Town to include these for environmental
benefits in the resolution.
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 886
JOHN SALVADOR-Spoke to the board noting he put a letter in their mailboxes concerning
Sweet Road, it is self-explanatory. Spoke to the board regarding the applications submitted for
the Ethics Board, he asked if one of the applications is from a Town Official?
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-In 1997, the Town passed a Local Law Revising Chapter 14, Code
of Ethics taking out that aspect, this law superseded the General Municipal Law 808-Paragraph
3.
TOWN COUNSEL, HAFNER-The Municipal Home Rule Law they enacted in 1997 to
supersede that portion of the law, it says that in our Code.
MR. SALVADOR-It is in the best interest of you and your employees to have a representative
on the board.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-If this is the way this board wants to go, we will remove the old law
and make it part of the new law.
MR. SALVADOR-Spoke to the board regarding Director of Planning and Zoning, Craig Browns
decision with the proposed zip line at Wild West Ranch. Thinks they have failed to recognize
Section 267A-6 of Town Law the issue of motorized verses non-motorized vehicles with regard
to open space use. Spoke to board regarding the Park Commissions mandatory boat inspection
and hot water pressure washing program which will go into effect on Lake George starting May
1511'
MR. LINEHAN-Asked if the board was going to forward the law to the DEC?
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-They already have the law.
MR. LINEHAN-Asked the Town to send to the DEC the discussions from the last law that was
adopted.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-If they require them we will.
MR. LINEHAN-Asked if DEC asked for public comment?
TOWN COUNSEL, HAFNER-They reviewed it and they approved it in 2011.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH-Recommended to Mr. Linehan to send the information to them.
JIM MACKEY, QUEENSBURY-Presented to board members his application for the
Queensbury Ethics Board.
4.0 RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING AND ADOPTING
SUSTAINABLE COMPLETE STREETS POLICY
RESOLUTION NO.: 121,2014
INTRODUCED BY: Mr.William VanNess
WHO MOVED ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: Mr.Doug Irish
WHEREAS, "Complete Streets" are defined as roadways that enable safe and convenient access
for all users, including bicyclists, children, persons with disabilities, motorists, movers of commercial
goods, pedestrians, users or public transportation, and seniors, and
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 887
WHEREAS, "Sustainable Complete Streets" are defined as Complete Streets with elements of
design, construction and operation that also serve environmental sustainability, and
WHEREAS, streets that support and invite multiple uses, including safe, active, and ample space
for pedestrians, bicycles, and public transportation, are more conducive to public life and efficient
movement of people than streets designed primarily to move automobiles and trucks, and
WHEREAS,promoting pedestrian,bicycle and public transportation travel as an alternative to the
automobile reduces negative environmental impacts, promotes healthy living, and is less costly to the
commuter, and
WHEREAS, the full integration of all modes of travel in the design of streets and highways will
increase the capacity and efficiency of the road network, reduce traffic congestion by improving in
options, limit greenhouse gas emissions, and improve the general quality of life, and
WHEREAS, many studies show that when roads are better designed for bicycling walking and
transit use, more people do so, and
WHEREAS, the design and construction of new roads and facilities in the Town of Queensbury
should anticipate future demand for biking, walking, and other alternative transportation facilities, and
WHEREAS, "Sustainable Complete Streets" are supported by the Institute of Traffic Engineers,
the American Planning Association,the American Public Health Association,the State of New York, and
many other transportation, planning and public health professionals,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Town of Queensbury shall view all transportation improvements as
opportunities to improve safety, access, and mobility for all travelers in the Town of Queensbury and
recognizes bicycle, pedestrian, and transit modes as integral elements of the transportation system, and
BE IT FURTHER-
RESOLVED,that this Resolution shall take effect immediately
Duly adopted this 7 t day of April,2014,by the following vote:
AYES : Mr. Strough,Mr. Metivier,Mr. Clements,Mr. Irish,Mr. VanNess
NOES : None
ABSENT : None
RESOLUTION APPROVING YEAR 2013 SERVICE AWARD PROGRAM
RECORDS FOR QUEENSBURY VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANIES
RESOLUTION NO.122,2014
INTRODUCED BY: Mr.Doug Irish
WHO MOVED ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: Mr.Anthony Metivier
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 888
WHEREAS,the Queensbun-Town Board previously authorized engagement of PENFLEX, Inc.,to
provide the 2013 Standard Year End Administration Services for the Town's Volunteer Fire Companies and
Volunteer Ambulance Workers Service Award Programs,and
WHEREAS, as part of the Service Award Program(s), it is necessary-that the Town Board approve
the Fire Companies' and Emergency Squads'Year 2013 Service Award Program Records,and
WHEREAS, the Town Supervisor's Office has received and reviewed the records from each of the
Town's five(5)Volunteer Fire Companies and found them to be complete,and
WHEREAS,the Town Board wishes to approve these records,
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED,that the Queensbun-Town Board hereby approves the 2013 Volunteer Fire Compan`
Service Award Program Records for each of the Town's five(5)Volunteer Fire Companies,and
BE IT FURTHER
RESOLVED,that the Town Board further authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor and/or Budget
Officer to take all action necessary to effectuate the terms of this Resolution.
Duly adopted this 7 t day of April,2014,by the following vote:
AYES Mr. Metivier,Mr. Clements,Mr. Irish,Mr. VanNess,Mr. Strough
NOES None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Mr.,VanNess (West Glens Falls Volunteer Fire Company only)
RESOLUTION TO AMEND 2014 BUDGET
RESOLUTION NO.: 123,2014
INTRODUCED BY: Mr.Anthony Metivier
WHO MOVED ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: Mr. Brian Clements
WHEREAS, the following Budget Amendment Requests have been duly initiated and justified and
are deemed compliant with Town operating procedures and accounting practices by the Town Budget
Officer,
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 889
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Queensbury Town Board hereby authorizes and directs the Town's
Accounting Office to take all action necessary to amend the 2014 Town Budget as follows:
From To
Code Appropriation Code Appropriation $
Increase Revenue
004-0000-52680 Insurance Recovery 647.35
Increase Appropriation
004-5130-4110 Repairs 647.35
Duly adopted 7th day of April, 2014, by the following vote:
AYES : Mr. Clements, Mr. Irish, Mr.VanNess, Mr. Strough, Mr. Metivier
NOES : None
ABSENT: None
RESOLUTION APPROVING AUDIT OF BILLS-
WARRANT OF APRIL 8TH, 2014
RESOLUTION NO.: 124,2014
INTRODUCED BY: Mr.William VanNess
WHO MOVED ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: Mr.Doug Irish
WHEREAS,the Queensbury Town Board wishes to approve an audit of bills presented as a Warrant
with a run date of April 3rd,2014 and a payment date of April 8th 2014,
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the Queensbury Town Board hereby approves the Warrant with a run date of
April 3rd,2014 and a payment date of April 8th,2014 totaling$2,013,460.23,and
BE IT FURTHER
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 890
RESOLVED,that the Town Board further authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor and/or Town
Budget Officer to take such other and further action as may be necessary to effectuate the terms of this
Resolution.
Duly adopted this 7 t day of April,2014,by the following vote:
AYES : Mr. Irish,Mr. VanNess,Mr. Strough,Mr. Metivier,Mr. Clements
NOES : None
ABSENT: None
5.0 CORRESPONDENCE
DEPUTY TOWN CLERK, O'BRIEN-Supervisor's Monthly Report for Community
Development and Building and Codes for March 2014 on file in the Town Clerks Office.
6.0 TOWN BOARD DISCUSSIONS
COUNCILMAN METIVIER(WARD I)
• Nothing to report.
COUNCILMAN CLEMENTS (WARD II)
• Thanked the residents for all of their comments tonight particularly on the Fertilzer and
Pesticide Runoff Law.
COUNCILMAN IRISH (WARD III)
• Thanked the Town Highway Superintendent, Tom VanNess and Chuck Garb for their
help on some issues that constituents had and called on last week. They came out and
took a look at the concerns and put together an action plan.
• Any drainage or water issues or snow plowing issues, residents can address their
concerns to the Town Highway Department.
COUNCILMAN VANNESS (WARD IV)
• April 16th and 17th Smart Growth Meetings at West Glens Falls House. April 17th is an
invite only. April 16th we will still take comments for your ideas, opinions or questions
about the Main Street Corridor. Hopefully, after April 17t1i we will be able to make some
decisions and changes and move on from there.
SUPERVISOR STROUGH
• Invited to celebrated Cecil Allen's 100th birthday with her. She is a resident of
Queensbury lives on the Boulevard. Wished her a Happy Birthday!
• Thanked each of the Town Board members for contributing their own money to the Lake
George After Prom Party.
• April 26t1i 2014 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Hovey Pond Park there will be a
conservation celebration.
RESOLUTION ENTERING EXECUTIVE SESSION
RESOLUTION NO. 125, 2014
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 891
INTRODUCED BY: MR. WILLIAM VANNESS
WHO MOVED FOR ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: MR DOUG IRISH
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Queensbury hereby adjourns from Regular
Session and moves into Executive Session to discuss current litigation and employment history
of employees in the Town.
Duly adopted this 7th day of April, 2014 by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. VanNess, Mr. Strough, Mr. Metivier, Mr. Clements, Mr. Irish
NOES: None
AB SENT:None
RESOLUTION ADJOURNING EXECUTIVE SESSION
RESOLUTION NO. 126, 2014
INTRODUCED BY: MR. DOUG IRISH
WHO MOVED FOR ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: MR ANTHONY METIVIER
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Queensbury hereby adjourns from Executive
Session and moves back into Regular Session.
Duly adopted this 7th day of April, by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Strough, Mr. Metivier, Mr. Clements, Mr. Irish, Mr. VanNess
NOES: None
AB SENT:None
NO ACTION TAKEN
RESOLUTION ADJOURNING REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING
RESOLUTION NO. 127, 2014
INTRODUCED BY: MR. DOUG IRISH
WHO MOVED FOR ITS ADOPTION
SECONDED BY: MR ANTHONY METIVIER
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Queensbury hereby adjourns its Regular
Town Board Meeting.
Duly adopted this 7th day of April, 2014, by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Metivier, Mr. Clements, Mr. Irish, Mr. VanNess, Mr. Strough
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,
REGULAR TOWN BOARD MEETING 04-07-2014 MTG#14 892
CAROLINE H. BARBER
TOWN CLERK
TOWN OF QUEENSBURY