Grant-seeking committee okayed

After a heated discussion, the Town Board approved formation of a Grant Appropriation Committee and the hiring of a professional grant-writer.

Board members disagreed on the urgency of this action. The final decision accepted a higher level of urgency, as application deadlines require action sooner, rather than later.

In other board news:

• The board agreed to modify the process for nominating new members to certain advisory committees. The board agreed that the town board should have more information on nominees and submit questions to a nominating team prior to approving any candidate for a position on the Planning or Zoning Boards.

• The board addressed a proposed town law that would allow the Town Board and certain advisory committees to continue to meet virtually. A public hearing on the proposed law is scheduled for the Board’s workshop meeting on April 7.

• In response to public comments and letters concerning assessments of properties and the related tax implications, Supervisor Donal Collins said he is planning a public forum with the Town Assessor to answer questions from the public.

• Councilman Pitkin urged Chatham residents to complete the NYS broadband survey to add to statewide data on availability and lack of broadband services in the town. The committee is meeting regularly and he and the Supervisor are meeting with Spectrum and Consolidated to address existing needs for services.

• Covid test kits are available for free at Town Hall. Check the website for details.