The Peru Gazette

Correction 10/17/13: Corrected to read “Hazard Mitigation.” First post read “Flood Hazards.” 

By John T. Ryan

The Peru Town Board has a full schedule this month as it formulates its 2014 fiscal year budget and holds its regular meetings and a public hearing on changes in the zoning law.

At the Monday, October 14^th meeting the Board approved expenditure of up to $8,000 for engineering and application expenses related to hazard mitigation grants offered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).  The competitive grants would pay for 75% of the project costs with the Town of Peru incurring the remaining 25%.  Water-Sewer Superintendent Greg Timmons presented priorities including a reservoir sediment trap, a Maiden Lane pump station and emergency generators. Councilman Brandy McDonald cautioned against having to increase water district tax rates. Supervisor Peter Glushko said one water district bond would be retired in 2014. Click here to see the town’s Top 10 Hazard Mitigation Priorities

Town employees will have to change health insurance carriers in 2014 because the Town’s insurance carriers have discontinued the current programs. The Board will explore alternatives. Town costs are not expected to increase.

The Board briefly discussed the planned walking trail including returning grant monies and not constructing the trail. After conferring with Grant Writer Adele Douglas, Supervisor Glushko told the Peru Gazette that it would cost more to stop the project than to complete it.  When the project was proposed it was believed that town departments could construct most of the trail. Glushko said grant construction standards and requirements are more complex than anticipated.  The availability of Highway Department and Water-Sewer Department equipment and personnel is also uncertain.

The Board continued its longtime discussion on repair or replacement of the Town Hall entrance steps. The Board has not reached a concept decision; therefore, bids cannot be solicited.

Construction of a new playground area and installation of equipment at Laphams Mills Park continues to be delayed because of incomplete project specifications and questions on workman’s compensation coverage. The new equipment has been in the town’s possession for several months.

A 2014 sand purchase agreement with Patrick and Shauna Remillard at a price of $2 per cubic yard was approved along with a $12.50 per parcel assessment contract with Clinton County.

Nine contractors have picked up bid information for the Fuller Rd. culvert repair project.  Given the number of interested contractors, Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell said, “I’m looking for a good bid.” Bids will be opened at 10 AM on Friday, October 18^th at the Peru Town Hall.

Farrell would also like to purchase a tandem truck-snowplow costing approximately $200,000 in 2014.  Farrell would have to cut back on overtime and highway paving to finance the purchase. Proceeds from selling a crusher would also help finance the truck.

The water quality improvement project equipment is up and running.  Project engineers hope to schedule a public information meeting in the near future.

FEMA monies related to Hurricane Irene repairs in the amount of $30,669 have been received.

Town Attorney Donald Biggs has prepared a revised Dog Control and Leash Law for Board consideration. Biggs said it corrects errors in the current law.

The New York State Association of Towns will conduct town board and town official  training in January.

An Elm Street resident wrote a letter to the Board stating that Elm St. is being reduced to one lane when cars are parked on both sides of the street. Supervisor Glushko said the Board would investigate the issue.