The Peru Gazette

Peru Town Board April 22 Meeting highlights: 

Responding to a request from Assemblyman Billy Jones, the board unanimously approved a resolution supporting renaming the “Carpenter’s Flats Bridge” in the Town of Peru (NYSDOT#1005970) the “Captain Christopher J. Garrow Memorial Bridge.” The Town of AuSable passed a similar resolution. The New York State Police presented the name change request to Assemblyman Jones. Possessing the towns’ resolutions, Assemblyman Jones will present a bill to the New York State Assembly requesting the name change. It must go through the normal legislative process.

New York State Police Captain Garrow passed away on June 12, 2023, from an illness stemming from his assignment at the World Trade Center following the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. Garrow was in New York City to aid in the search and recovery efforts as a member of the New York State Police. Captain Garrow was a Peru High School graduate who resided near the Carpenter’s Flats Bridge.

The board debated the town’s sick leave policy.

The town’s personnel handbook states that an employee “may be” required to provide a doctor’s written statement if an absence exceeds three days. The agenda resolution would have changed the doctor’s statement policy to “will be” required. Town Attorney Matt Favro recommended the change in response to a question. He said it would ensure that all employees work under the same policy. Water-Sewer-Parks Superintendent Courtney Tetrault stated that he uses discretion when asking for a doctor’s statement because he knows and trusts his employees. He also cited concerns about confidentiality and insurance deductible costs. Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell said he always requires a written statement. Following an extended discussion, the board agreed that Councilmen Eric Duquette and Kregg Bruno would meet with department heads to develop a uniform policy. Matt Favro said the board could establish a set number of total days off each year (i.e., replacing sick time and vacation time), leaving it up to employees to take earned days off at their discretion. 

The Zoning Board of Appeals needs alternate members

Code Enforcement Officer Bob Guynup reported that the Zoning Board of Appeals badly needs alternate members. Guynup mentioned the April 17 meeting when two members had valid reasons for being unable to attend. Because a majority vote is required, the three board members present who attended would have had to vote 3-0 to approve the application. An applicant can request a delay; however, delays hurt Peru’s reputation as an efficient, well-run community. The individual representing the April 17 applicant traveled from New Haven, Connecticut, to attend the zoning board meeting. The board tabled the application pending the applicant’s response to questions the board posed at the meeting.