A resolution (#28) is being proposed for the January 21 town board meeting to complete and submit Form PO-17 (New Position Duties Statement) for authorization by the County of Erie Department of Personnel to create two (2) additional positions of Automotive Mechanics in the Highway department.

During the recent election campaign, every candidate stressed the need for transparency and their commitment to provide for it. Yet too often when it comes to town board meetings there is little transparency offered in the language of the resolution. The following is an example of resolution deficient and/or misleading language relavance.

In a correspondence to the town board, the Highway Superintendent writes he intends to promote two (2) Mechanic Assistants to Mechanic positions. There is only one (1) slot open. He is requesting the town apply to the County to add two (2) additional slots. It will not affect the budget as funds are available.

The adopted 2020 budget lists three (3) Automotive Mechanics, zero (0) Automotive Mechanic Helpers in the Highway Department. No assistants listed in the budget, yet two (2) are being promoted. Who is actually being promoted from what position?

If there is one vacancy (slot) open was it because of a retirement? Or, a position never filled?

If there were three Automotive Mechanics and now but two, and two are being added to make four, is there a need for an additional two Automotive Mechanics?

Or, is the creation to fill staffing needs and/or adding staff because the two promotions were positions other than Mechanic Assistants?

Or, will the created positions remain unfilled, or but one filled and in what capacity?

The public has the right to address the board at the opening comment session on the pre-filed resolutions. If the resolution language clearly defined the nature of the resolution, there would be no need for public clarification questions.

It will be interesting to hear whether this resolution brings any discussion at the work session or by the public at the regular meeting. Resolution sponsor, Supervisor Ruffino, has promised fiscal conservatism and will be more than able and willing to explain resolution content.