The Peru Gazette

Gazette file photo

By John T. Ryan

Financing the water quality and sewer improvement project was a primary subject of discussion at the Monday, April 23, 2012 Town Board meeting. The Peru Town Council, town staff and town engineers have been laying the groundwork for the project for several months. Over the next few days Supervisor Peter Glushko will estimate the impact of the $3.2 million project on water and sewer tax rates. An informational meeting will be held on Thursday, May 3rd. (Date Corrected) Click here for the project schedule and more details

Estimated annual debt service for the project ranges from $173,873 to $235,515  depending on the term of the improvement bond.  Long-term bonds require lower annual payments, but result in higher total interest costs. For example, a 35-year bond would have an estimated annual debt service of approximately $179,935 and total debt service of $3,032,389 while a 20-year bond would incur an approximate average annual debt service of $235,515, but interest would total approximately $1,444,958.

Peru’s feral pig problem has been publicized nationwide.  Now there’s a problem with feral cats in the Jenkins-School Street area. Residents have complained and Supervisor Glushko is researching the cost of capturing and neutering the animals.

Final adoption of Peru’s new Zoning Law is drawing closer. The Board scheduled a Public Hearing for Monday, May 14, 2012 at 6:30 PM.

In other actions:

• Water-Sewer Department Superintendent Greg Timmons reported that work is underway on the North Bend Street sewer project.  A new sewer line is being installed from the Town Hall north to North Bend Street.  Timmons said that all but one property owner was satisfied with a 14-foot easement.  He will continue working to resolve the issue with the remaining party. Councilman Jim Douglas complimented Timmons on the manner he works with the public to resolve problems.
• The board is considering installing new doors to improve Town Hall security. Greg Timmons reported that the Hartson Total Opening Company of Plattsburgh would install interior office doors with metal jams and exterior doors.  If the board proceeds, competitive bids will be sought.
• Highway Superintendent Michael Farrell reported that the sale of the Highway Department’s stone crushing machine to a local logger will not take place.  When the logger learned about the required training and safety requirements, he decided to lease a crusher from another party.
• Greg Timmons recommended purchase of the previously discussed Toro lawn mower-snow removal machine. Supervisor Glushko will meet with Timmons to discuss where the $36,000 expense would fit into this year’s town budget.
• Supervisor Glushko told counselors that the NYS Comptroller’s auditor is expected to be in Peru for about one more week. The auditor will present his findings to town personnel on Monday, April 30th.
• Staff members Pam Barber and Judy Akey attended a three-day NYS accounting school.  Supervisor Glushko said he plans to attend similar training in the future.
• The board took a wait and see attitude on any endorsement of the long-discussed Rooftop Highway.  The board wants to see the positions taken by the communities most directly impacted by the highway.
• Pam Barber reported that the town’s payroll procedures have been certified by the Clinton County Personnel Department with no exceptions noted.