The Peru Gazette

By John T. Ryan

Bringing more utility options to Town of Peru residents were discussed at the October 11, 2012 Town Board meeting. 

Town Supervisor Peter Glushko reported that a Morrisonville-based company named Mountain Wisp would like to expand its wireless broadband coverage area and speed in the town.  A company representative attended a regional conference centered on available state grants for broadband expansion. Mountain Wisp would like to attach its equipment to the Terry Mountain tower.

Representatives from JCEO and NYSERDA addressed the board regarding grants, discounts and financial assistance programs for people undertaking energy efficiency projects. Part of the discussion included expansion of Peru’s natural gas service. Most town residents do not have a gas line near their homes. NYSEG would provide service if there is sufficient demand. The Peru Gazette will discuss these programs in more detail in a separate story.

Consulting engineer Peter Gibbs responded to questions raised by Counselor Kregg Bruno regarding the estimated $300,000 plus cost to repair the leaking Highway Garage roof. There is also excessive moisture in the attic and uneven insulation.

Gibbs said the core trusses are bowed and undersized. The roof fails to meet New York State building codes. He said new trusses could be installed or the existing trusses could be resupported with steel beams. Resupporting would be less expensive. Counselor Bruno appeared to be satisfied with Gibb’s explanation, though he was also frustrated over having to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars.  Once the roof is stabilized, additional vents, insulation and new roofing can be installed.

In other actions/news:

• Peru’s sewer rates will be increasing along with water rates in 2013. Capital improvements and all costs must be incorporated in the budget.
• The Board accepted the resignation of Zoning Board member Thomas Fusco. Fusco said he has served on either the Planning Board or the Zoning Board since 1999.
• Supervisor Glushko stated that a workshop would be scheduled to develop a Walking Trail budget.  The NYS Comptroller has stated that every town project must have a specific budget.
• Finalization of a fuel sharing agreement withPeru Central School is proceeding. Supervisor Glushko said the school’s fuel handling system needs an upgrade. If the buses refuel at the Town Highway Garage, the school system will not have to upgrade its system.  The Town of Peru will not receive any monetary benefit.  The Board views the agreement as an example of sharing services and as a first step toward future cooperation.
• At the town’s insistence, the owner of the dilapidated house at 5 School Street has taken some steps to clean up the property. The owner has until the first week of November to board up, clean and secure the building.
• Residents in the vicinity of Glenwood Plaza complained that three pigs were running loose in their neighborhood.  Animals such as pigs are not permitted in a residential neighborhood. A zoning violation notice has been issued.