The Peru Gazette

By John T. Ryan

The Peru Town Board Awarded a bid to Stephen Fuller Excavating Inc. in the amount of $139,139 for work at Heyworth-Mason Park at its June 27th regular meeting. The access road to the park will be improved, a parking area behind the Heyworth-Mason building will be constructed, drainage will be installed at the building perimeter, park benches and a bike rack will be put in place and a link to the planned walking trail will be constructed.

Roger Bonner, a member of the Babbie Rural and Farm Learning Museum, addressed the Board. He said the museum was very successful during its first year of operation with over 2,000 visitors including over 200 students. The museum has budgeted expenses of $25,000 and needs support from many segments of the community. Bonner asked if it would be possible if the Town of Peru could offer some support. Supervisor Peter Glushko said he was present for the museum’s grand opening and has written letters of support. Several Board members expressed the view that the museum is a great asset to the community. Town Attorney Donald Biggs will determine if the town is legally permitted to contribute to a non-profit museum. Bonner said he would be contacting several civic and community organizations seeking their support.

In other actions the Board:

• Continued discussions on vandalism at the Little AuSable River Park, especially under the Route 22 Bridge. The Board would like to illuminate the area with bright lighting.
• Scheduled a workshop for July 18^th at 7 p.m. to discuss the Highway Department Budget for the current fiscal year. Clearing the heavy winter snows and repairing damage caused by recent flooding has resulted in a budget shortfall.
• Discussed resident complaints regarding tall grass and poor maintenance at several vacant properties including two properties on LaFleur Lane, one on Alicia Drive and one property on School Street. The Town Code Enforcement Officer has been attempting to contact the property owners. Other legal remedies will also be explored.
• Supervisor Glushko suggested purchasing a used van or SUV for use by the Dog Control Officer. Council member Kregg Bruno asked when the Water and Sewer Department is going to return the Dog Control Officer’s Jeep. Supervisor Glushko said that Water And Sewer apparently has use for the vehicle. Bruno said that he believed that the vehicle should be returned to the Dog Control Officer. Council member Brandy McDonald concurred.  Water and Sewer Superintendent Greg Timmons was not present, therefore, the matter was not resolved.
• Learned that it will cost approximately $300 to construct another records storage area in the Town Hall basement.
• Continued discussion on the need to complete the disposal of old town computers, printers and assorted furniture.
• Discussed the condition of the Town Hall entrance ramp and grounds. The Board members agreed to examine the entrance following the meeting. The railing and wall near the sidewalk have deteriorated and weeds dominate the area.
• Supervisor Glushko informed the Board regarding a July 10th, 10 AM training session for town officials to be held at the Town of Plattsburgh offices. It will include Civil Service laws and harassment regulations.
• Approved a resolution authorizing the Town Engineer to begin drafting engineering plans for work on water and/or sewer lines on Locust Drive, North Bend Street and McDonald Drive.
• Approved a resolution authorizing the Town Engineer to inspect Spitfire Drive to determine if an obstruction is preventing water from passing through an easement. Property owner Dennis Curtin has complained about his property being flooded.
• Received a report from Pam Barber that the Little AuSable Park summer concert series has been scheduled and is being publicized.
• Learned from Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell that flooding repairs have been accomplished on Old Town Rd., Fox Farm Rd., Elm Street, Rock Rd., Rounds Drive and the Military Turnpike. Town Highway Department crews and Stephen Fuller Excavating Inc. have accomplished the work. Farrell is still evaluating repairs needed on Pleasant Street. Farrell also reported that the transmission on truck #5 must be replaced. It may or may not be covered by warranty. Discussion with V.S. Jerry is ongoing.
• Authorized payment for bills in the amount of $331,609.24.
• Adjourned at 8:26 p.m.