March 6, 2023, Lancaster Town Board / Committee Reports

[Lee Chowaniec]

After a month’s absence of having a town board meeting in February, reports were given at Monday evening’s Lancaster work session by the Code Enforcement Officer, Town Engineer, Highway Superintendent / Deputy Highway Superintendent, Police Chief, and town board members.

Reports expected but not delivered:

Dog shelter update – crickets!

The fetid smell still permeates the building; no word on installation of a ventilation system; kennel floor slope issue still unresolve; third full-time Dog Control Assistant position remains unfilled, etc. No report given by Town Engineer or Town Dog Control Committee

No word on project closing date; no word from Ag & Markets; no contact from Board of Health on sanitary conditions. 8 months since promised project close-out date was announced by the Town Board and Town Engineer.

Union Contract Negotiations

It is understood that town – union contract negotiations are private. However, it appeared by approved resolution some time ago that an agreement was imminent. It appears the town’s offer was refused. The public is being shut out form any information on what has transpired.

Status of Change in Tax Exemptions

At the November 7th town board work session Assessor Rebecca Baker addressed the town board regarding their input on changes considered to setting limits on tax exemptions granted to eligible recipients: aged, veterans, disabled veterans, Condominium Law-339, etc.

Town Board input had to be received prior to March 1, 2023, roll deadline. It is my understanding the option to change the condo law was taken off the table. No information has been forthcoming on an exemption modification.

Other

Thanks to Town Clerk Diane Terranova for requesting individuals addressing the board from the audience to come to the lectern and use the microphone to ensure they could be clearly heard and understood by the public listening to the livestreaming of the meeting.

[gorja]

Also at Monday night's meeting, Highway superintendent Pilato stated that part time employee, Justen Wilczak had passed his pesticide license test.

Wasn't that a requirement for the Forestry supervisor position that was lacking from any of the employees in the Parks and Recreation department including the former Crew chief?

Wasn't that the reason Highway superintendent Pilato kept the position after being elected?

[gorja]

Originally posted by Lee Chowaniec:
Status of Change in Tax Exemptions

At the November 7th town board work session Assessor Rebecca Baker addressed the town board regarding their input on changes considered to setting limits on tax exemptions granted to eligible recipients: aged, veterans, disabled veterans, Condominium Law-339, etc.

Town Board input had to be received prior to March 1, 2023, roll deadline. It is my understanding the option to change the condo law was taken off the table. No information has been forthcoming on an exemption modification.

I truly can't understand why they would want to keep the condo law as it stands. Doesn't anyone believe in equity.