The Peru Gazette

By John T. Ryan

The Main Street Revitalization will proceed with a planned completion date of summer 2018. The Board passed a resolution (4-0) at its March 12, 2018 meeting to proceed with the first phase of the project. Supervisor Brandy McDonald noted the project workshop that preceded the meeting was generally characterized by a spirit of compromise.

Peru’s Walking Trail continues to be a regional resource. Two to three thousand people enjoy the trail each month. Ciara Nussbickle of the Clinton County Health Department reported that nature walks are taking place on the trail in conjunction with the Peru Free Library, C.V. Tech is using the trail for tree identification field trips, and the Health Department is developing an instructional video on how to use all the equipment along the trail. Participants in the morning workout classes at the Peru Community Church and Peru Central School students will participate in the video.

Beth Spaugh-Barber, who operates Rehoboth Homestead on the Jabez Allen Rd. and a farm stand on Route 9, addressed the Board regarding fluttering/moving banners which Peru’s zoning law prohibits displaying on a long term basis. She noted that one of the purposes of zoning law is to promote business. She said, “Having a flag that catches attention is important for business. The zoning law from a business prospective needs updating, recognizing that the issue of not having everything fluttered, density issues, etc.” She suggested forming a collaborative working group to discuss amending the zoning law. Adele Douglas, a former member of the Comprehensive Planning Committee commented, “When we developed the comprehensive plan we did want to encourage small farmers. Maybe there’s a gap in the zoning law when it comes to signs.” After discussion it was decided to recommend that two members of the Zoning Board, the Planning Board, the Town Board Liaison to the boards and the Town Attorney meet with the interested members of the business community to discuss the issue.

The Board accepted the resignations of Paul Sarbou and Robert Wright from the Highway Department and approved hiring Lloyd R. Provost as a motor equipment operator at an hourly rate of $18.25. One open Highway Department position will be filled at a later date.

A resolution to make the Town the lead agency for State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) for replacement of a culvert at the intersection of Telegraph Rd. and Sullivan Road was approved. A deteriorating 10 ft. x 180 ft. metal pipe would be replaced by a 18 ft. x 180 ft. precast pipe. The size increase is required by Fish and Wildlife regulations. The Town is applying for a a NYS grant to fund the project which has been estimated at approximately $900,000. The project will be delayed if the grant is not acquired.

Sprint Corporation was granted permission to install larger transmission equipment on the Town’s water tower . It will pay an increased monthly rental fee of $250. Sprint will also pay for a tower safety inspection prior to installation of any additional equipment.

The Water/Sewer Department installed antennas on the Town’s water tower. The antennas permit Supervisor’s office personnel to control and monitor the Town’s electronic sign, security and camera systems. Vandalism has dramatically decreased since cameras were installed at the Little Ausable River Park. Click here for February Dept. Head Reports