1983-08-08 RGMAGENDA
TOWN BOARD
TOWN OF WAPPINGER
AUGUST 8, 1983
1. SUPERVISOR CALL MEETING TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO FLAG
3. ACCEPT MINUTES Reg. June 13, 1983
4. REPORTS OF OFFICERS:
Town Justices Bldg/Zng Receiver of Taxes Hydrant Report
5. PETITIONS•& COMMUNICATIONS
a. Sheldon Kantor, Ardmore Drive re: Sewer Pump Station
b. Chelsea Fire District Recommendation for Fire Prevention Bureau
member
Resignation of Judge Wm. J. Bulger - Effective 8/3/83 - Vacancy
now exists
Correspondence from H. Gunderud & Ping. Bd. re: Brescia Site
R.E. Lapar submission of Map, Plan & Report re: Central Wapp.
Water Improvement Area Contract #1 - Extension #3
R.E. Lapar report re: Sheraton Enterprise (Soil Mining Question)
Planning Board Correspondence re: Fee for submission of revised
Site plan approval
Request from Zoning Bd. of Appeals Members to attend Seminar
at Grossingers Oct. 16 -18th, and permission is also requested for
Gloria Morse to attend Seminar at Nevele Sept. 11 --14th.
Accept "Letter of Credit" for Tall Trees, Sect. 4, Steinhaus Rd. i
Roger Mastri, Engineer, re: Swan Surveys
R.E. Lapar report on Re -Bids for installation of Cold Water Meters'
Article 78 - Petition and Petition & Complaint Served on Town -
DWS and WVC vs Town Board, Town Planning Bd, et al
6. COMMITTEE REPORTS
7. RESOLUTIONS
a. Pizzagalli Development Company Petition for establishment of
water District
b. Amendment to Driveway Permit Ordinance
c. Local Law for water meter installation
d. Local Law on Accessory Apartments (Introduction)
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
9. NEW BUSINESS
10. ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Wappinger
was held on August 8th, 1983 at the Town Hall, Mill Street, Village
of Wappingers Falls, Dutchess County, New York.
Supervisor Diehl opened the meeting at 8:00 P.M.
Present:
Louis Diehl, Supervisor
Nicholas Johnson, Councilman
Gerard McCluskey, Councilman
Bernice Mills, Councilwoman
Elaine H. Snowden, Town Clerk
Absent:
Frank Versace, Councilman
Others Present:
Jon Holden Adams, Attorney
Rudolph Lapar, Engineer to the Town
Kenneth Croshier, Highway Superintendent
Henry Cuatt,'Comptroller
Mr. Diehl reported that Mr. Versace was in the hospital but his
condition was not considered serious.
The meeting started with the Pledge of Allegiance to the American
Flag.
The Minutes of the Regular Meeting of June 13th, 1983, having
previously been sent to all Board Members, were now placed before
them for their consideration.
MR. JOHNSON moved that the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of June
13th, 1983, be and they are hereby approved as submitted by the
Town Clerk.
Seconded by Mrs. Mills
Motion Unanimously Carried
Reports were received from the Town Justices for the month of July,
Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator for May, June and July,
Hydrant Report for July and the Supervisor/Comptroller Report
through June 30, 1983.
MR. JOHNSON moved that the Reports as stated be accepted and placed
on file.
Seconded by Mr. McCluskey
Motion Unanimously Carried
Mr. Diehl requested that Item 5f, regarding a request for a soil
mining permit for Sheraton Enterprises, be considered by the Board
at this time to accommodate the principals who had another appoint-
ment.
At the last meeting this request had been referred to the Engineer
and the Conservation Advisory Council for their review and recom-
mendation to the Board. A report was received from Mr. Lapar
stating that from an engineering standpoint, the work anticipated
would improve the property; from a zoning standpoint, as long as
there is an agreement with the abutting property owner, there is
no zoning barrier to the proposed work. During a discussion with
the Attorney, Mr. Lapar indicated that this clearance was considered
an,ineidantal use and therefore would not require a permit for the
project, A report had not been received from the Conservation Advisory
Council due to the fact that Mr. Hawksley, Chairman of that Council
had not seen the referral, however, he was familiar with the site
and could not foresee any problem that such a project would cause.
Mr. Vasti, Attorney for Sheraton Enterprises, spoke briefly to the
Board and requested that they consider action on this request at this
time and enable his client to proceed with his plans. It was agreed
that Mr. Vasti would forward a map to Mr. Hawksley for review by the
Council.
MR. JOHNSON moved that approval be given to Sheraton Enterprises for
their soil mining activity as presented to the Town Board subject to
a report from the Conservation Advisory Council within a five day
period.
Seconded by: Mr. McCluskey
Motion Unanimously Carried
A letter was received from Sheldon Kantor, 88 Ardmore Drive
regarding the requirement of a pumping station at the bottom of
his road in order to tie two homes into the Town sewer system.
MR. JOHNSON moved that this matter be referred to the Water and
Sewer Committee for review and report to the Town Board at the
next meeting.
Seconded by Mr. McCluskey
Motion Unanimously Carried
The Chelsea Fire District wrote to the Town Board recommending
the appointment of James Tompkins to the Town Fire Prevention
Bureau.
MRS. MILLS moved to confirm the appointment of James Tompkins
as a member of the Town of Wappinger Fire Prevention Bureau
from the Chelsea Fire District.
Seconded by Mr. Johnson
Motion Unanimously Carried
Mr. William J. Bulger wrote to the Board advising them that he
was retiring as Town Justice of the Town of Wappinger and submitted
his resignation from that position effective as of August 8, 1983.
MR. MCCLUSKEY moved to accept Mr. Bulger's resignation with regret
and best wishes for his retirement.
Seconded by Mr. Johnson
Motion Unanimously Carried
A vacancy now existed in the Town Justice Court and two applications
had been received by the Board for this position both accompanied
by a resume.
Resume of Herbert G. Elman
Residence:
99 Ardmore Drive
Wappingers Falls, N.Y. 12590
Telephone 297-5657
Age: 41
Marital Status:
Married to G. Susan Landau. Three children,
Matthew 17, Andrew 15 and Rachel 11. Mrs.
Elman attended Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, N.Y.
with a major study in Fashion Design. At
present she is a stained glass craftsperson.
Personal Background: Graduate of Pratt Institute, B.S. in Art
Education, 1965. Advanced studies at State
University at New Paltz; Catawba College,
Salisbury, N.C.; Juniata College,
Huntingdon, Pa. Member of Wappingers Central
School District faculty. Former instructor
of Art, Dutchess Community College. Super-
vising Teacher, SUNY -New Paltz, for student
teachers. Delegate to the New York State
Teachers Retirement System. Former Vice
President, New York State Art Teachers
Association. Member, Board of Directors,
Hudson Valley Artisians Guild. Immediate
past Vice President of same.
Resident of Town of Wappinger since 19654
Carl S. Wolfson Resume
Residence: Wheeler Hill Road
Wappingers Falls, New York 12590
Age:
Marital Status:
46
Married Ronnie Ellen Miller 6/29/67. Three
children - David 13; Ira 11 and Aaron 8. Mrs.
Wolfson graduate of Syracuse University. Masters
Degree from Columbia University. Certified
New York State Teacher, Secondary Level,
Social Studies
Graduate Duke University 1959
Graduate of Brooklyn Law School 1965
Active Duty U. S. Navy 1959-1965
Lt. Commander U. S. Navy Reserve
Admitted to the practice of law in the State of New York
January 1966
Admitted to the practice of law in the Federal District Court
for the Eastern and Southern District of New York 1967
Admitted to the practice of law in the U. S. Circuit
Court, Second Circuit Court of Appeals 1967
Admitted to the practice of law before the Supreme Court
of the United States May 1976
Assistant District Attorney, Kings County 1968-1970
Assistant District Attorney, Dutchess County under
Albert M. Rosenblatt 1970-1972
Former member of the Mid -Hudson Crime Control Planning
Commission
Instructor at Dutchess Community College Police Science
Course and Criminal Procedure Law
Member law firm of Rosen, Crane & Wolfson, 11 Market Street,
Poughkeepsie, New York
Resident of the Town of Wappinger since 1970
Instructor to local police agencies and New York State
Police on justice court trials
The following resolution was offered by COUNCILMAN MCCLUSKEY who
moved its adoption:
RESOLVED, that Carl S. Wolfson, be and he is hereby appointed
as Town Justice of the Town of Wappinger to fill the vacancy which
has occurred due to the resignation of William J. Bulger from that
position, and it is further
RESOLVED, that the said Carl S. Wolfson is hereby appointed
as Town Justice for a term which shall expire December 31, 1983.
Seconded by: Councilwoman Mills
Roll Call Vote: 4 Ayes Mr. Versace ---Absent
Mr. Johnson pointed out that by appointing an attorney to dais
position, it would eliminate the waiting period to allow a lay judge
to attend the required courses.
The following memo was received from Hans Gunderud:
Memo to: Town Board
From: Hans R. Gunderud, Bldg. Insp. & Zoning Admin.
Date: August 8, 1983
Subject: Brescia Lot
I have made several site inspections of the clean-up work on
Mr. Brescia's lot and have found all debris to have been removed,
the rear bank graded properly, seeded and mulched.
I have been in contact with Mr. Lapar's office and he is satisfied
with my site inspections.
I would recommend rescinding the stop work order and allow Mr.
Brescia to go forward with normal subdivision approval with the
Planning Board.
At the last meeting The Board Members had directed that a letter
be sent to the Planning Board recommending that they postpone action
on approval of the Brescia Subdivision until the dumping problem
was resolved.
MR. JOHNSON moved to rescind their previous motion and inform the
Planning Board that the Town Board has no objection to the approval
of the Brescia Subdivision as recommended by the Engineer and the
Building Inspector.
Seconded by Mr. McCluskey
Roll Call Vote: a Ayes Mrs. Mills ---Nay
Mr. Lapar submitted a Map, Plan and Report for Central Wappinger
Water Improvement Area, Contract #1 -Extension #3 in accordance
with the recommendation of the Bonding Council.
MRS. MILLS moved to set a Public Hearing on the Bonding Resolution
for this project on August 22, 1983 at 6:45 P.M. at the Town Hall,
Mill Street, Wappingers Falls, New York.
Seconded by Mr. McCluskey
Motion Unanimously Carried
(This Public Hearing was not held due to lack of information for
publishing the Legal Notice).
A letter was received from the Planning Board requesting considera-
tion by the Town Board for a requirement of a $25.00 fee on sub-
missions for revised site plan approvals.
MR. JOHNSON moved to approve the establishment of a $25.00 fee
on submissions for revised site plan approval, as recommended by
the Planning Board.
Seconded by Mrs. Mills
Motion Unanimously Carried
The Zoning Board of Appeals wrote to the Board requesting permission
to attend the Annual Planning and Zoning Institute at Grossinger,
New York from October 16th through October 18th, this communication
also requested permission for some of the members who had attended
the Association of Towns meeting in February. According to Town
Policy, one overnight conference is allowed to each employee per
year, however, they may attend these sessions on a daily basis and
charge transportation and one meal to the Town.
A second request was received from the Justice Court for Gloria
Morse to attend a seminar for Town Court Clerks at Ellenville, New
York from September llth through the 14th.
MR. JOHNSON moved to grant permission to the Zoning Board of Appeals
and Gloria Morse to attend their respective conferences subject to
adherance to the Town Policy.
Seconded by Mr. McCluskey
Motion Unanimously Carried
Mr. Adams forwarded a Letter of Credit for the Tall Trees Subdivision,
Section 4, Steinhaus Lane for consideration by the Board; both he and
Mr. Lapar had approved the form and substance of the document.
MR. JOHNSON moved to accept the Letter of Credit for Tall Trees
Subdivision, as recommended by the Attorney and the Engineer.
Seconded by Mrs. Mills
Motion Unanimously Carried
The next item on the Agenda, 5j, was tabled for executive session
at the request of the Attorney (Town of Wappinger vs Swan).
The results of the second bid for the installation of water meters
ummt submitted by Mr. Lapar and the report indicated that Central
Installation Company was the low bidder. Since this bid came in
approximately $20,000 (20%) lower than their first bid, Mrs.Mills
asked for a discussion with the representative from that company.
Mr. Robert Garden identified himself as the District Manager, New
York and when questioned by Mrs. Mills if he felt they could do
the work for that amount, he responded that he felt very comfortable
about it ----they could do it very easily. Mr. McCluskey pursued the
matter and asked why they felt so comfortable with a $20,000 cut to
themselves. Mr. Garden replied that he did not have to relocate his
crew, he had trained plumbers and qualified men in North Tarrytown.
His last reply to Mr. McCluskey's question regarding union pay was
that his men were paid above the union scale.
MRS. MILLS moved to refer the bid and all pertinent correspondence
to the Attorney, also at the Attorney's request, a draft of the
Performance Bond from Central Installation Company be forwarded
to him, for his review and recommendation to the Town Board.
Seconded by Mr. McCluskey
Motion Unanimously Carried
An Article 78, Petition and Petition and Complaint was served on
the Town Clerk on July 28, 1983 by DWS and WVC.
MR. JOHNSON moved to refer this matter to Jon Holden Adams, Attorney
to defend on behalf of the Town of Wappinger.
Seconded by Mr. McCluskey
Motion Unanimously Carried
The following letter was received from Theresa Hamilton:
Box 546 Hamilton Rd.
Hughsonville, N.Y. 12537
Town Board
Town of Wappinger
Dear Members:
This letter is to inform you of the drainage of water from
two roads of the Town of Wappinger, into and overmyproperty.
On Connor Rd. there is a pipe beneath the road into my
property, then across the surface of my land, which is now cut
into two, by a gully 4 feet or better in spots. The water flow
measured into my land was 11 gallons a minute, during a storm.
This water goes over my land down to the Creek Rd, which is County.
On the other side of my property, which is Hamilton Rd. the
water runs down the road and it is ditched into my land, down to
the Creek Rd. Where does the Town get the right to drain the
water from their roads across the surface of the property owners
land? On the other road across from us, the town put drains down
the Marlorville Rd. all beneath the surface of the road. Does it
make a difference who owns property along the roads?
I have twice personally talked to Mr. Diehl about this
matter through the years. He said he would come down to look at
it and send the engineer down, but needless to say, neither ever
came down. Mr. Diehl drives a Town car, and I live less than a
mile from the Town Hall, but we understand he does forget at times.
I talked many times with our late Superintendent of Highways
and he always said the Town had no money to put drains down for
the roads. Our present superintendent has no reason. If the Town
can afford to pay $28,000 a year for a part time Supervisor, and
at once have a surplus of $400,000, it is about time they did
something for the tax payers who pay the salaries. I do not mean
just my own, but for many others in the town. I expect the town
board to do something about this matter, and also for the damages
to - my property.
I am also contacting the County Supervisor, and Superintendent
of Highways, on this matter so they can see that the water, dirt,
and ice does not come from me, but from the Town of Wappinger.
The only way I have been able to contact Mr. Diehl, in the
past few years, is by sending him a copy of the Certified letters
that I have sent to the TownBoard. When I called his office he is
never available.
I am sending a copy of this letter to Mr. Diehl and to Mr.
Croshier, by certified mail.
Yours truly,
s/ Mrs. Theresa R. Hamilton
Mr. Diehl's reply follows:
August 1, 1983
Theresa Hamilton
Box 546 -Hamilton Road
Hughsonville, NY 12537
RE: Your Certified Letter received July 28, 1983
Theresa:
To say the least and attempting to be rational and hopefully
polite, I, Lou Diehl am appalled and shocked at your remarks,
unconfirmed statements and below the belt distasteful quotes. It
certainly does not do justice to the Theresa Czervak Hamilton I
know.
Immediately upon receipt of your Certified Letter, I contacted
Highway Superintendent Kenneth Croshier and Deputy Highway Super-
intendent John DeCarlo and immediately went to your property, you
were not at home.
We three again checked your property and your problem. We
saw three areas of instances where water is running from your
property to Creek Road which appears to be from springs on your
property. This, along with possible overflow of septic system
or leach fields or the combination of all could be the major
cause for creating problems to Creek Road. I shall contact the
Commissioner of Dutchess County Department of Public Works to
order capping the possible three (3) springs by you on your
property. I shall contact the Dutchess County Department of
Health to inspect your septic system and leach fields to ascertain
that they are not overflowing and in workable condition. The
Dutchess County Health Department and Environmental Conservation
Department should inspect your property to see that no health
problems exist, along with capping and closing off of your springs
on your property, which even with a dry spell presents flow on
Creek Road.
Mr. Croshier advises me, yes, he has been on your property
previous and is aware of highway drain pipe which carried surplus
water to your property and finally to Creek Road drainage system.
From research it appears said pipe was installed approximately
twenty-five (25) years or more ago. If said pipe was not in its
present position, water and freezing problems could be increased
ten fold to your property and driving conditions on the town road
would be a problem.
Your quote: "Mr. Horton, (now deceased and a capable and
excellent Highway Superintendent) as saying he had no money" is
difficult now to interpret what he said or implied due to his
passing away.
I shall not attempt to clarify what Mr. Croshier (present
Highway Superintendent) means, saying quote: "no reason".
Again, you quote: "a surplus of $400,000.00", the question
is at what time of year, not at the close of books at end of
year? Again, a fund balance such as you refer to $400,000.00
is compiled of two individual sections of Town's Budget by law
and comprises many projects, such as; sewer plants, water plants,
equipment, drainage and special construction problems. The law
does not allow a town to take from an account where money is
earmarked for a special district or project, such as; Town Hall
Fund (new Town Hall) where money is earmarked for new Town Hall
and is placed in a special individual bank account by full Town
Board for only a new Town Hall.
Your quote: "Part-time Supervisor". I don't know what you
read or hear, but Theresa, the Town's Budget is approximately
three and a half million dollars with over fifty (50) employees
full and part-time and I can assure you (and invite you as my
guest) to come to the Town Hall to spend a day and actually
see the complex of Town government, talk with employees (of
all political faiths) and hear if I am part-time. I am here
everyday of the week, as I have been in the last fifteen (15)
years, three days each year for vacation spent at New York
State Association of Towns for Conference and/or school. That
is a total of three weeks a year of forty-five days in fifteen
years. I am entitled to three weeks a year or forty-five weeks
of vacation. I have had forty-five days in fifteen years.
Again, you quote: "when you call my office I am never
available", come down and hear the truth, my records support
answering calls everyday as they come in or referring and
directing them to the proper Town Official or employee whose
professional experience qualifies them for detailed work program.
Finally Theresa, come visit us and see and hear the facts.
A previous letter Certified and sent by you on January 7, 1983
is confirmed here and in writing I advised the full Town Board
and the proper department head who responded and commented on
your complaint. Copies are enclosed.
Very truly yours,
s/ Louis Diehl, Supervisor
Under Committee Reports, Mrs. Mills reported on the Saturday Morning
Garbage Disposal Program at the Highway bepartment. The Landfill
Committee had previously recommended putting up a gate at the dumpster
to prevent people from dumping at undesignated times. The accumulated
garbage and the concern that it would attract rodents, necessitated
an additional pickup during the week by the refuse carter. By taking
this action, the Landfill Committee hope to realize the money they
were losing with the free dumping. Mrs. Mills had received two
estimates from local fencing companies ---A-1 Fence submitted a figure
of $855.00 and Marshall Fence, $595.00 which included repair of the
existing fence. The Committee recommended that Marshall Fence Co.,
low bidder be authorized to do the fencing around the dumpster at
the Highway Garage.
MRS. MILLS moved that Marshall Fence Company be awarded the bid for
the gate and fencing and fepair of the existing fence at the Highway
Garage dumpster, at a total cost of $595.00.
Seconded by Mr. Johnson
Motion Unanimously Carried
Mrs. Mills, Drainage Committee, reported that Phase I was already
under way and they were now ready for Phase II of the Downstream
Drainage Project. There had been previous discussion regarding
the availability of the Highway Department to do this work, however
Mr. Croshier recommended that it be put out to bid due to the heavy
work load of his department at this time.
MRS. MILLS moved to authorize Mr. Lapar to go to bid on Phase II
of the Downstream Drainage Project.
Seconded by Mr. Johnson
Motion Unanimously Carried
Mrs. Mills requested Mr. Lapar to proceed to the next step on the
Downstream Drainage Project.
Mr. Johnson, Ordinance Committee, reported that the final draft
of the Local Law on Accessory Apartments was ready to be reviewed
by the full Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals. He requested
that copies be forwarded to the Zoning Board of Appeals and they be
invited to attend the next work session on -August 22nd, 1983 for
discussion of this Local Law.
Last month Mr. Johnson reported that the CHIPS money was received
for 1983, however, as reported by the New York State Department of
Transportation, municipalities will no longer receive this money
unless the 1.3 million Bond Issue is approved by the voters this year.
Mr. Johnson's next report concerned the cost of the maintenance of
the pond in the area of Ye Olde Apple Orchard which had been requested
by the residents. The total annual cost quoted by the Recreation
Commission was $950.00 which included 6 mowings at $150.00 per mowing
and 50 lbs. of copper sulphate for treatment of the water at $1.00
a pound. Mr. Johnson requested that this information be forwarded
to the residents who had expressed concern on the condition of the
pond.
Mr. Johnson met with the Recreation Commission to discuss a
proposal received from the Little League Association regarding
facilities for the handicapped at Robinson Lane for which the
Town had received $14,000 under the Emergency Jobs Bill Application.
The Association also submitted plans to expand the field house at
Robinson Lane and additional work at Martz Field for the Board's
consideration. Since a recommendation for these proposals had not
been received from the Recreation Commission, Mr. Johnson asked that
a letter be directed to them requesting a report on this matter.
Mr. Johnson's next report related to the bus expense for the baseball
teams who were transported out of the district to compete for the
annual title. In the past the Town had paid this expense for the
winning teams traveling to the tournaments.
MR. JOHNSON moved that the Town pay the bus transportation for
members of the baseball teams traveling to the tournaments in excess
of fifty miles from the Town.
Seconded by Mrs. Mills
Motion Unanimously Carried
Mr. Johnson read the following letter:
Mrs. C. Zippo
15 Nancyaleen Dr.
Wappingers Falls, NY
July 12, 1983
Town Board
Town of Wappingers Falls
Mill Street
Wappingers Falls, N.Y. 12590
To the Town Board:
I would like the Board to know how much we appreciate the
new guard rail installed on the corner of Spook Hill Road and
Nancyaleen Drive.
Mr. Croshier came out personally and assisted in its installa-
tion. It has been a very dangerous corner especially in bad weather.
We have lived here for 2 years and had 18 minor accidents involving
our property.
Although it took some time, we are very grateful to Mr. Croshier
for handling this problem.
We now feel that the new guard rail will prevent these cars
from coming on our property, naturally, making it safer for the
children and preventing further property damage.
Sincerely,
s/ Mrs. Cheryl Zippo
Mr. McCluskey, Building Committee, reported that progress was being
made on the plans for the new Town Hall; the preliminary plan
of the building which would include the type of construction
and the layout of space needs would be available from the firm
of Hayward and Pakan about the 15th of August. A meeting would
be set up for the full Board to view the plan and discuss any
changes they felt should be made in the layout and possibly
consider construction costs.
Public Safety Committee - Mr. McCluskey was pleased to announce
that the 40 MPH signs for New Hackensack Road from the village line
to Route 376 were finally posted by the Dutchess County Department
of Public Works. He commented that he hoped our request for a
speed limit reduction on Myers Corners Road in the vicinity of the
Fire House would be given further consideration by the County.
Airport Liaison Committee - Mr. McCluskey had attended a meeting
at the Airport and reported that a report had been distributed
showing the projected growth of the airport for the next twenty
years. Future plans did not provide for any considerable growth -
it would remain a commuter airport due to the oil embargo, traffic
slowdown at the major airports and the fact that Stewart Airport
was only minutes away. There was a question on extending the runway
although this did not seem probable for the future. There would be
three or four more meetings on future reports and recommendations
for the Dutchess County Airport, with the final one in April of 1984.
Public Safety - Mr. McCluskey commented on the Neighborhood Watch
Program which has been implemented in other municipalities -
volunteers keep watch in their neighborhoods and report anything of
a suspicious nature to the police. He felt it was imperative that
the Town encourage such a program, due to a dad incident which had
recently occurred in the Town involving a young boy. This program,
he pointed out, would not involve creating a Police Department.
Mr. McCluskey's next report was a continuation of previous ones
relating to a dog problem which involved Mrs. Van De Carr, a Dog
Control Officer for the Town and Mr. Richard Tallman. Mr. McCluskey
/3
had referred the matter to the Attorney for his opinion. Mr. Adams
stated that he could find no violation of the Zoning Ordinance
relating to the number of dogs in the kennel, based on information
supplied to him. It was previously determined that Mrs. Van De Carr
could combine her two separate lots which would allow her to house
an unlimited number of dogs. Regarding the continuous barking of
the dogs, Mr. Adams recommended that a complaint be filed at the
Town Justice Court which would be considered a violation of the
Local Law on Noise Pollution Control Law.
Mr. Tallman was recognized by the Chair and spoke of many incidences
involving the noise from the dogs and the annoyance it was causing
him. He found it difficult to file a complaint against one Dog
Control Officer and have the other Dog Control Officer testify
for him. Mr. Adams pointed out that the complaint could be filed
by him, as the aggrieved party, he did not need a law enforcement
officer. Mr. Tallman continued and said he was trying to resolve
these problems through Mr. Gunderud; he further stated that he had
been told by Mr. Gunderud that a cease and desist order had been
issued relating to violations on additions, the number of dogs
allowed and the increase in the number of pens in front of the
property. The Board agreed with him to the extent that Mr. Gunderud
was responsible for enforcing any violations pertaining to the Zoning
Ordinance, however, complaints relating to the Noise Law has to be
handled by the Justice Court as a civil matter. He was urged by the
Board to pursue this avenue of relief. In the meantime the Board
would keep abreast of any other violations that were enforceable
by the Zoning Administrator.
Mrs. Mills added that the 1982 state aid had been received for all
the Town sewer plants for operation and maintenance.
Mrs. Mills had been appointed to the Airport Liaison Committee
to represent Mr. Diehl when he was not available but she had not
been able to attend the last meeting since she was out of town.
All Board Members had feceived a copy of a letter addressed to
Mrs. Pattison, Dutchess County Executive, from concerned citizens
expressing their dissatisfaction with conditions at the Dutchess
County Airport. Mrs. Mills commented that the signatures on this
letter indicated that residents, not only from Quiet Acres, but
from various other sections of the Town, have concerns on the
operation of the airport concerning the size of the aircraft
arriving and departing, noise abatement and future expansion of
the facilities. She planned to attend a meeting with these
residents on the following Wednesday to discuss their concerns
and would report to the Board at their next meeting.
Mr. Johnson had additional information on the power lines ---the
intervenors have requested some Contingency Analysis Procedure
Models run by the Power Authority and additional time to study the
inputs; the judges who are hearing the case have granted their
request.
Mrs. Sandra Goldberg, Wappinger County Legislator, was recognized
by the Chair and commented that contrary to the opinion of the
Town Board that they had waited a long length of time for the
County to consider lowering the speed limit on New Hackensack Road,
she felt that the County had cooperated with this request but the
procedure of obtaining approval from the State had probably delayed
the action.
Mr. McCluskey took exception to this reasoning and refatedd.to a
meeting early last year with Mr. Anagnos, Deputy to Mr. Spratt of
Dutchess County Department of Public Works at which time the Town
was told that the request for the speed limit reduction on New
Hackensack Road was not being considered. It wasn't until April of
this year that the County changed their mind and approved the
reduction.
Mr. Don McMillen, Wappinger County Legislator, was recognized by
the Chair and touched on two items discussed at the County meeting --
the first related to the controversy on the legality of bills
presented in the Smith Murder Trial Case and the second was the
leasing of the Luckey Platt building presently occupied by Social
Services.
A Petition for the Establishment of a Water Distribution District,
dated July 13, 1983 from the Pizzagalli Development Company, was
received by the Town Board for their consideration. There had
been a previous discussion between Mr. Adams and the representative
from Pizzagalli to amend Paragraph 3 of the Petition.
The amended Petition reads as follows:
To the Town Board of the Town of Wappinger, County of Dutchess,
State of New York:
The Undersigned, constituting the sole property owner of the
taxable real property situated in the water district proposed to
be included in the Water Distribution District hereinafter described
and proposed to be established, does hereby petition the Board as
follows:
1. Petitioner proposes, pursuant to Article 12-C of the Town
Law, that the Town Board of the Town of Wappinger, establish a
Water Distribution District containing the boundaries set forth
in Exhibit A attached hereto.
2. The establishment of said Water Distribution District is
necessary and desirable so that needed water can be obtained from
the Atlas Water Company through a municipally owned water distri-
bution district. In order to accomplish the desired objectives,
it is necessary that the special district which is the subject
of this petition be established.
3. The maximum amount proposed to be expended for the above
described improvements is Three hundred fifty thousand dollars
($350,000), which includes improvements to be jointly used with
the Cranberry Hills Water Improvement Area. Petitioner requests
that special benefit assessment be established for the aforesaid
costs which will include an equitable apportionment of any
improvements to be jointly used.
4. The petitioner has its headquarters at 50 Joy Drive, South
Burlington, Vermont 05481.
WHEREFORE, petitioner respectfully requests that the Town
Board of the Town of Wappinger proceed to make a study of this
proposal to establish the Water Distribution District herein-
above described, and take any and all further action as is
required or deemed necessary in accordance with the provisions
of the Town Law.
Dated at Wappinger, New York, this 13th day of July 1983.
Pizzagalli Development Company
By: s/ Ronald I. Bouchard
Partner
MR. JOHNSON moved to accept the Petition, as amended, and place
it on file.
Seconded by Mr. McCluskey
Motion Unanimously Carried
Thefollowing resolution was offered by COUNCILMAN JOHNSON who
moved its adoption:
WHEREAS a petition dated July 13, 1983 has been presented
to the Town Board of the Town of Wappinger pursuant to Town
Law -Section 209-q requesting that a water improvement area be
provided for the area described therein, and
WHEREAS the petitioner has consented to the payment of all
costs associated with the preparation of a map, plan and report
for such district, and
WHEREAS a public hearing is not necessary upon the petition
as the proposed improvement area affects only lands of the
petitioner,
NOW, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town Board determines that
Rudolph E. Lapar as engineer to the town shall, at the sole
expense of the petitioner, prepare a general plan, report and
map for the providing of improvements and upon completion of the
same, to file the same with the Town Clerk.
Seconded by: Councilman McCluskey
Roll Call Vote: 4 Ayes 0 Nays
A Public Hearing having been held on an Amendment to the Driveway
Permit Ordinance of the Town of Wappinger adopted June 8th, 1983,
the matter was now placed before the Board for their consideration.
At the Public Hearing several questions came up concerning the
wording of the amendment relating to damage to town highways which
could be interpreted as being discriminatory against developers.
Mr..Croshier felt the amendment needed further discussion ---if
more than one developer was working in the area, how would you
determine which one damaged the highway.
MR. MCCLUSKEY moved to table action on the Amendment to the Drismway
Permit Ordinance for further study.
Seconded by Mrs. Mills
Motion Unanimously Carried
A Public Hearing having been held on a proposed Local Law Regulating
Water Lines, Water Meters and Water Use in the Town of Wappinger,
on July 28th, 1983, the matter was now placed before the Board for
their consideration.
MRS. MILLS moved to adopt Local Law # 7 of 1983 as follows:
(attached hereto and made part thereof of the minutes of
this meeting)
MR. JOHNSON moved that the Board go into executive session to
discuss Item 5j (Town of Wappinger vs. Swan).
Seconded by Mr. McCluskey
Motion Unanimously Carried
The Town Board went into executive session at 9:42 P.M.
The Town Board returned from executive session at 9:57 P.M.
The meeting was called back to order and all Board Members were
present at 9:57 P.M.
Mr. Diehl noted that the Board had discussed Item 5j with the
Attorney and since this matter was in litigation, no action would
be taken at this meeting.
There was no other business to come before the Board.
MRS. MILLS moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Mr. McCluskey
and unanimously carried.
The meeting adjourned at 9:58 P.M.
Reg. Mtg. 8/8/83
SA -0,404-,
Elaine H. Snowden
Town Clerk
TOWN OF WAPPINGER,
DUTCHESS COUNTY, NEW YORK
LOCAL LAW NO. 7 OF 1983
SECTION 1. Definitions.
As used in this article, the following terms shall have the
meanings ascribed to them:
Applicant shall mean any person, corporation, partnership or
other entity requesting a permit under the provisions of this local
law and those acting on behalf of the applicant in undertaking work
provided by the permit.
Owner or consumer shall 'mean the owner of the premises supplied
or furnished with water or the person or entity using such water if
not the owner.
Person shall mean any natural person, partnership, corporation
or other entity.
Service pipe or service main shall mean the pipe and
attachments of every kind and nature appurtenant thereto connecting
the street main with the house or building piping.
Superintendent of highways shall mean the superintendent of
highways of the town.
Water charge shall mean any obligation of an owner for
remuneration as created by this local law or separate local law and
setting for water rates including but not limited to connection
fees, excavation, liability for repairs, relocation, damage or
idemnification.
Water department shall mean that department, agency, employee,
or private contractor of the town which is authorized by the town
board to operate, maintain and, in general terms, manage or
supervise the water systems of the town, and shall include the town
building inspector and the office of the comptroller.
Water main or street main shall mean the pipe and attachments
of every kind and nature conveying water along the streets of the
town or in any easement or right of way.
,SECTION 2. Application.
This local law shall govern all water improvement districts and
areas existing within the Town of Wappinger whether created pursuant
to Town Law or other authority.
SECTION 3. Application and contract for service.
(a) Before water shall be turned on for the supply of any
building or premises, application therefor shall be made in writing
to the town, which application shall be signed by the owner and be
upon a form supplied by the building department and filed with the
building department. The application must be approved by the
building inspector before any connection is made with the street
main or the service main. Inspection of the connection to the main
shall be made by the Engineer to the Town or his representative.
(b) The applicant shall be held responsible for all water
rents and charges until due notice of change of ownership shall have
been made by him in writing and delivered to the town at least ten
(10) days before going into effect. Every owner taking water or
permitting water to be taken for use on his premises agrees to this
article and agrees to be bound by it and by such other rules and
regulations as may thereafter be established for any town water
improvement area or water district.
SECTION 4. Excavations for water pipe in .public ways;
permit required.
(a) No street, sidewalk or other public ground shall be opened
for the purpose of laying any water pipe or service pipe or doing
any work whatever about any water main or pipe or service pipe or
fixture, or for the purpose of making any connection with any water
pipe or doing any work in connection therewith, unless a permit
therefor shall be obtained from the town superintendent of highways,
unless the work is to be done under contract with the townboard or
by the town water department.
(b) Before any permit required by subsection (a) shall be
granted, the applicant shall file a bond in the office of the town
clerk in the sum of not less than ten thousand dollars ($10,000.00),
or in such greater amount as specified by the engineer to the town,
properly conditioned to indemnify the town against any loss which
the town may sustain by reason of the negligence
his agents, employees or representatives, or his
with this article and compute in a proper manner
of such applicant,
failure to comply
the work undertaken
by him. The bond shall be approved by the town board as to its form
and the sufficiency of the surety, before filing.
(c) In the opening of a street, sidewalk or other public
ground for the introduction or repair of any water service pipe or
connection under authority of a permit issued pursuant to this
section by the town superintendent of highways, the applicant shall
be responsible for all damages resulting from such trench or
opening, even though the work is performed by some other person, the
permit for making the excavation or opening in the street, sidevalk
or other public ground being to the applicant only, and any person
opening the street, sidewalk or other public ground under the permit
does so as the agent of the applicant and by no other authority.
The applicant shall duly regard public safety and convenience and
such excavations shall be adequately guarded and proper lights
displayed by him at night to warn and protect
SECTION 5. Connectionswith mains.
(a) No person shall tap any street main
the public.
or make any connection
therewith, except as authorized under the permit, unless the tapping
is made as an adjunct to a contract with the town for the
installation of the street mains on which said tap is being made.
The building inspector shall approve the setting of all meters. No
one shall turn on any water service nor shut off any water service
except with the knowledge of and permission of the water
department.
(b) Service taps shall be made under the direction and
supervision of the building inspector and/or the engineer to the
town using materials, methods and specialized persons or firms
. acceptable to the engineer to the town and/or the building
inspector. Costs for such taps are not included in the fixed fee
schedule, but shall be separately borne in their entirety by the
applicant for water service.
(c) No person shall lay any service main or make any
attachment thereto or any alterations or repairs to the service main
or appurtenances thereto except a contractor or other person who has
obtained a permit therefor as prescribed in this article or persons
or firms working under contract with the town for such work.
(d) There shall be no tap, provision for a tap, plugged tee or
other such fitting in the service main between the street main and
the meter. Any yard hydrant, fountain or hose must be connected on
the building side of the meter. In cases where water would be used
for fire prevention or for filling fire service tanks only, a tee
before the meter could be permitted.
(e) All service pipe shall be of the best grade and weight,
standard type K copper tubing for sizes through two (2) inches
meeting AWWA specification 7S -CR. Service pipe over two (2) inches
may be ductile iron meeting AWWA specification C151-76. All pipe
shall be rated for service of one hundred fifty (150) pounds per
square inch or greater. No service shall be less than three-fourths
(3/4) inch.
(f) Service pipe shall be laid not less than four (4) feet
below the surface of grade and its vertical and horizontal alignment
in relation to any sewer or other parallel pipe shall conform to
health department standards and to the requirements of the town's
standards. An alternate when rock or other conditions is
encountered will be allowed when the town's insulation standards are
complied with.
(g) The entire expense, both in labor and material, of
installing the service from the curb stop at the street line to the
gate valve at the meter shall be borne by the owner of the premises.
In those districts where service pipe from the street main to the
curb -stop at the property line was not provided by intent, the
entire expense, both in labor and material, of installing the
service from the main to the gate valve at the meter, both
inclusive, shall be borne by the owner of the premises and the
street surface and walks and other surface elements replaced as they
were found at the property owner's expense. In those cases where
the size of the service already installed from the street main to
the curb stop is not suitable to the proeprty owner for his intended
use, the property owner may, upon application for and issuance of a
permit, install a suitable service from the tap to his meter
inclusive at his own expense.
(h) Only one (1) property or property unit shall be supplied
through a single service pipe. Should repairs to the service main
or its appurtenances and fixtures become necessary to prevent waste
of water or to maintain service, the repair and the cost of such
repair will be made pursuant to the Town of Wappinger Ordinance for
regulating water and sewer service pipes, adopted February 13, 1980.
(i) Every service main shall have a cock or other approved
valved tap in the main, an inverted key stopcock or other approved
valve with a metal protecting box at the curb or property line, and
a gate valve or other approved valve just before the meter the
installation of which shall be the expense of the owner. It shall
be the duty and responsibility of the property owner to keep the
curb box in good repair, above ground and accessible at all times.
(j) No person, except town contract personnel or those acting
with permission of the Building Inspector under a duly authorized
permit, shall open or close any valve on the street mains or
services or any cocks in any curb box, or tamper or interfere with
same in any way whatever.
(k) Personnel of the town contract operator, the building
inspector or other persons authorized by the town board may at any
time enter a building or upon premises where water is used from
supply pipes connected to the street mains for purposes of examining
such pipes and materials which have been installed.
SECTION 6. Meters.
(a) Every water service shall be supplied through a meter.
Only one (1) meter shall be set in any service main. If more than
one (1) meter is desired or required for a building or premises, a
separate service main must be run to the street main for each and
every additional meter. When exceptional conditions warrant devia-
tion from this rule, a special permit shall, however, be revocable
at the discretion of the town board.
(b) Separate water service lines designed and installed
exclusively for fire-fighting' purposes (i.e., sprinkler systems,
etc.), and from which there are no connections or tees or taps from
which water may be drawn and used for purposes other than fire
fighting and protection need not be metered.
(c) All meters shall be provided by and at the expense of the
owner of the premises requiring the meter and shall be of the size
and type acceptable to the building department. Meters shall be set
at the expense of the property owner in such location, position and
manner as to be readily accessible for reading, repair or replace-
ment, kept free from obstruction and fully protected from freezing
and damage at the property owner's expense. Remote-reading heads
shall be installed at locations on the outside surfaces of building,
in accordance with town specifications. Cables or wires connecting
remote-reading heads with the meters shall be protected from damage
by the property owner. A penalty of fifty dollars ($50.00) will be
imposed when a meter is damaged by freezing or other negligence on
the part of the owner or when a remote-reading cable or head is
damaged by the property owner's negligence, which penalty shall be a
lien against the property. Any damage to the lines, meter,
remote-reading heads or other equipment shall be presumptively the
result of negligence of the owner unless rebutted by the owner. The
final determination of responsibility shall be made by the building
department. All meters, cables, remote-reading heads and all other
equipment accessory to the meters shall be under the exclusive
control of the water improvement areas or districts and subject to
inspection at all times by the town's contract operators, the
building inspector or other agents authorized by the town board.
(d) All water passing through a meter will be charged for,
whether used or wasted. Meters will be tested at the consumer's
request; and if the meter is found to be accurate, the consumer
shall bear the expense of the test. Any meter may be tested for
accuracy at the discretion of the town. Should a meter of size
greater than 3/4 inch be found to be inaccurate, the consumer shall,
upon written notification, have the meter repaired within forty-five
(45) days of the notice at his expense. Meters will be considered
accurate if registering within two (2) per cent plus or minus. If a
meter is out of order and fails to register correctly, the consumer
will be charged the average daily consumption as shown by the meter
when in accurate working condition.
(e) No person shall interfere or tamper in any way with the
meter or meter accessories or the valves and fittings connected
thereto. Any person violating this subsection shall forfeit as a
penalty for such violation the sum of fifty dollars ($50.00) for
each violation.
(f) All meters shall be sealed. The seal may be broken only
by the authorized agent of the town board. Should the seal be
broken in any other manner, the property owner will be held
responsible and the town board reserves the right to order the meter
removed for test or replacement at the expense of the property
owner.
(g) Access shall be given to the town, the water department,
or contact employees of the town to the area of a building'where the
water meter is located or is to be located for purposes of
inspection, repair, modification or replacement. It shall be the
obligation of the owner to reimburse the water improvement area or
district for any expenses incurred by it in installation, repair or
replacement if the meter and water lines necessary for replacement
of meters are not reasonably kept in an accessible location. Each
meter or meter water line shall be directly accessible without the
necessity of removal of any permanent wall, floor covering or other
covering preventing direct access and installation, removal or
repair, or inspection.
SECTION 7. Payment of rentals generally.
The rents for the use of water and all charges in connection
therewith shall be due and payable quarterly on schedules
established by the town board at the office of the town comptroller.
Fractional parts of a quarter will be computed from the day the
meter is installed to the day of the quarterly reading. No
abatement of the minimum charge for water rent shall be made unless
water is disconnected at the curb box.
SECTION 8. Rates, charges and billing.
(a) The rent per quarter, which includes rental of a water
meter if any, shall be determined by separate local law for each
district.
(b) The fee for permission to open streets, lanes, walkways
and other public grounds for the purpose of installing mains,
services and other appurtenances shall be subject to permission and
fee as set by the town board.
(c) All unpaid water rents, charges and penalties which are in
arrears for thirty (30) days or longer shall be subject to a penalty
of ten (10) per cent of the amount due.
(d) If all water rents, charges and penalties are not paid
within sixty (60) days after the due date, the town comptroller
shall mail to the owner or, if previously directed to send bills and
notice to an agent or tenants, then to such agent or tenant, a
notice of the arrearage containing the total amount then due with
notice and stating that unless paid within five (5) days after date
of mailing the notice, service will be discontinued, and service
shall not be restored until all charges and penalties shall have
been paid and the further sum of twenty dollars ($20.00) shall have
been paid for the restoration of service.
(e) All water rents and other lawful charges in connection
with the water system as prescribed by this local law, including but
not limited to fees for opening and connection, charges for repair
and relocation and obligations of indemnification shall be a lien
upon the real estate where such water is supplied. All penalties
for the violation of any rules and regulations adopted, if not paid
when imposed, shall constitute a lien upon the real property and
premises in like manner as unpaid water rents.
(f) All water rents, penalties and other lawful charges
remaining due and unpaid at the time the annual tax roll of the
water improvement area is made up shall be included therein and
levied against the real property on which the water shall have been
used, and shall be collected with and in the same manner as other
town taxes with the additional fees, charges and penalties incident
to the collection of such taxes.
(g) If requested by the owner in writing, the town board will
send bills and notices to agents or tenants in the owner's name, but
water rents, charges and penalties are a lien upon the property
where the water is supplied and owners shall remain responsible for
the payment thereof.
SECTION 9. Fees for turning water on and off.
Water shall not be turned on or off except by the town's
authorized agent. There will be no charge for the first turning on
of the water, but should the town board or its agent turn it off
because of any delinquency on the part of the consumer or for other
valid cause, the water will not be turned on again until all the
charges and a fee of twenty dollars ($20.00) has been paid by the
owner. When water is turned off at the request of an owner, no
charge will be made for turning water off, but a charge of ten
dollars ($10.00) shall be made for turning on the supply again.
While so shut off by the water department at the curb box, the
minimum charge for water will be made.
SECTION 10. Interruption of service.
(a) The town board reserves the right to suspend or
discontinue, when the public interest shall require it, the use of
any water service, including street mains, and also to shut off the
water for repairs or alterations of the street mains or service
mains or for other purposes and to keep it shut off as long as may
be necessary.
(b) Neither the town nor any of its officers or agents, or the
town water improvement areas or districts shall be held responsible
or be responsible to consumers for any damages which may result from
or be caused by shutting off or turning on the water, even when no
notice is given, and no deduction from water bills shall be in
consequence thereof. No claim shall be made against the town, the
improvement areas or districts or any damages arising from the
bursting or breaking of any street main or service pipe, or any
fixture or attachment thereto wherever situated, or from the failure
or diminution of the water supply, whatever the cause thereof.
SECTION 11. Cross -connections with nonpotable water supplies.
If an owner has any source of water other than from the town
public water system, such source will be considered nonpotable.
Before making any service connection between the town public water
supplly and a consumer's premises, it shall be required that all
connections between individual wells or other outside sources of
supply physically be disconnected from the consumer's plumbing
fixtures which are connected to the town potable water supply.
SECTION 12. Fire hydrants.
No person shall be permitted to open any fireplug or hydrant or
draw water therefrom, except the town or those acting with'its
permission or under its direction. The chief engineers of the
various fire districts, their assistants, officers and members of
the departments, are authorized to use the hydrants and fireplugs
for the purpose of extinguishing fires and, in all such cases, shall
be under the direction and supervision of the chief engineers or
assistants appointed to them and, in no case, shall an inexperienced
or incompetent person be permitted to manipulate or control in any
way any hydrant, fireplug or fixture.
SECTION 13. Obstruction of fixtures.
No person shall obstruct access to any fire hydrant, stopcock
or curb box connected with the water mains or service mains or pipes
in any street by placing thereon any building materials, rubbish or
other hindrances.
SECTION 14. Water used for construction purposes.
Water used for building purposes shall be charged to the owner
of the property. The amount consumed shall be metered or estimated
by the water department or at its option its duly authorized
representative.
SECTION 15. Service outside improvement areas or districts.
No water main shall be tapped, nor any service main extended,
outside the boundaries of any water improvement area or district,
except on special application therefor, filed with the town board
and a special permit therefor granted and issued by the town board.
The town board shall impose such conditions upon the granting of the
permit as shall be deemed fitting and proper by it, and shall impose
and collect such water rents and charges for such water service as
it deems best.
SECTION 16. Amendments to this article; special agreements.
The town board reserves the right to change, modify, supplement
or amend this article and the rates and charges for the use of water
from time to time. The right is also reserved to make such
additional rules and regulations, which to the town board seems
best, to regulate the water supply and the proper and efficient
administration of the town water improvement areas and districts and
to make rates or contracts for the use of water in special cases.
SECTION 17. Penalties for violations; additional remedies.
Pursuant to Section 135 of the Town Law, a violation of this
article is declared to be a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine for
each violation not exceeding fifty dollars ($50.00) or imprisonment
for a period not to exceed six (6) months, or both; and each day
such violation continues shall constitute a separate violation. The
proper local authorities of the town, in addition to other remedies,
may institute any appropriate action or proceeding to prevent
unlawful violation of this article and to restrain, correct or abate
such violation or to prevent any illegal action, conduct or use in
or about the water improvement areas or districts, the expense of
which shall be a water charge.
In addition to the foregoing, any person who has made an
unauthorized tap or connection to any water line of any district or
area shall be liable for the use of such water at a rate four times
the minimum rate for such district and shall be further liabile for
all expenses, including labor, engineering, legal and otherwise
associated with the misuse of said water district or area, which
shall constitute a water charge.
SECTION 18. Validity of this local law.
If any part or parts of this local law are determined by a
court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the invalidity
thereof shall not affect the validity of those portions not so
determined to be invalid.
SECTION 19. Effective date.
This local law shall become effective upon filing with the
Secretary of State.