News from Town Board meeting Aug 3, 2023

Highway Superintendent Jeffrey Antalek submitted his resignation effective 9/1/23. The board will appoint an interim superintendent through 12/31/2023; and make another appointment effective for 2024.  There will be an election in November 2025 for the Highway Superintendent position term opening on January 1, 2025.  

The board discussed a recommendation to pave Haritgan Road, an unpaved road that connects Rock City Road and Rte. 295. Superintendent Antalek cited increased traffic over the past few years and a “constant maintenance issue” on the road. He said tractor trailers regularly use the road because a business that hauls material is located on Hartigan. 

Antalek said that he has agreement from the majority of the residents on the road that a paved surface is preferable; and has availability of some NYS funds that could be used to cover a large part of the cost of the project.  

The board heard concerns that public input on the matter is needed, given a recent controversy over paving. The majority of the board voted to put the issue on an upcoming agenda and publicize it with an email blast so that residents are aware and more likely to participate in this discussion.

A draft local law to regulate short-term rentals was circulated at the meeting. A number of concerns were raised about the proposed law. There was general agreement that regulation of STRs is desirable. The board will continue to research how best to regulate prior to submitting a new law for a public hearing, which is necessary prior to the passage of any new law.

The board will schedule a site visit and public meeting at the Town Highway Garage in Old Chatham to discuss an expansion of that facility. Time and date of that meeting will be announced; the presenter will discuss a proposal for the project by CT Male & Associates.