The Peru Gazette

Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell anticipates the completion date of the closed Telegraph Road Bridge for July 2026. According to Farrell, acquiring DEC and the Army Corps. permits, along with the design, engineering, and construction, will take approximately two years. On May 29, the board hired C&S Engineering to design and oversee the project at a cost not exceeding $245,000.

The board approved financing of water treatment plant upgrades, which are estimated to cost up to $9.4 million. The engineering firm Barton and Loguidice of Albany, NY, evaluated the necessary changes and will apply for grant funding on behalf of the town. Hopefully, this significant investment will ensure the town’s compliance with all water quality laws. See the Peru Gazette story for details. 

As reported by the Peru Gazette on May 29, Town Supervisor Brandy McDonald announced his decision to step down this September or October. McDonald’s cited downsizing, not finding a suitable home in Peru, finding one in Plattsburgh, and the fact that he and his wife work in Plattsburgh as reasons for his decision. He said he loves Peru and its people, but this decision is right.

The town is purchasing two electronic message signs for the highway department from Donnelly Construction for $14,000 each. The signs are new and still in their original packing.

Recreation Director Kristen Marino reported that “all summer sports are through the roof, including tennis, arts and crafts and soccer.  Two hundred sixty-seven youths signed up for soccer, so much so that she’s planning to reopen registration on July 1. Marion also plans to add two boys Pony League teams.

The board accepted NYSE&G’s proposal to install 19 LED street lights in the hamlet at $2,418.97 (total cost). Pam Barber reported that the NYS Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) awarded Peru a $10,000 grant because of the town’s previous energy conservation upgrades.

The Peru Town Market’s community use application for Heyworth Mason Park was approved at $100 per occasion. Town Markets are scheduled for June 30, July 28, August 25, September 15, and October 20.

Code Enforcement Officer Bob Guynup reported that one resident submitted a Letter of Interest to serve as an Alternate Zoning Board of Appeals member.  One more alternate is needed. The interested person read the Peru Gazette’s editorial on the need for volunteers.

At 6:55 PM, the meeting adjourned to an executive session regarding a personnel issue.