First Regular Town Board Meeting racked up accomplishments

The first regular Town Board Meeting of 2024 (the first one was the reorganization meeting) was held on January 22 with the full board present.

A moment of silence was held for former planning board member Regina Pace.

The public portion of the meeting was used by a former town supervisor/confidential secretary to explain that she had used the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) to get information on the request for qualification postings and wondered why the evening's agenda included resolutions to fill those positions prior to the January 31 deadline. The Supervisor explained that qualified firm/individuals had presented their credentials and were interviewed by the board satisfying the board's requirements for the job. Clearly prompt responsiveness and an expression of wanting the positions available are attributes that are desired by this board. She was also afforded the opportunity to bring up an issue not on the agenda - questions about when a $2500 shredder was authorized. Documentation showing that the former supervisor had signed the authorization in November was included in the discussion. She thanked the board for their service to the town.

Three other members of the public used the public portion of the meeting to express their interest in participating in the Town's Recreation Committee.

Dutchess Land Conservancy then presented information about Emerald Creek Farm - 26 acres on Diddell Road - in the middle of 400 acres of an agricultural district. The land includes 6 acres of wetlands. The Conservancy was asking for a Letter of Endorsement from the town board that this land be placed conservancy, preventing further subdivision, ensuring that now and in the future this land is protected. (The board agreed to this resolution later in the meeting.

The Consent Resolutions in the Agenda (meaning that all town board members are supportive of approving the resolutions with limited further discussion):

Approval of Stormwater Management Consultant Services - the previous, well regarded Stormwater consultant highly recommend the candidate... and with new NY state requirements for managing wetlands, qualified candidates are highly sought after by other municipalities.

Approval of appointing a court clerk.

Establishing a Pay Scale for 2024 Gymnastics Clinic Staff

Approval of Letter of Endorsement for Emerald Farm application for Farmland Protection Program.

Accepting of American Rescue Plan Funds - to Inspiration Field at Robinson Lane Baseball Complex -- here's a link to the press release - https://townofwappingerny.gov/blog/town-supervisor-cavaccini-and-wappinger-town-board-authorizes-funding-to-fully-complete-inspiration-field/

Authorization to replace garage doors at Robinson Lane Baseball complex

Replace Town/Greenway sign on route 376 that has been vandalized.

Promoting a seasonal Laborer to full-time groundskeeper.

Reconstituting the Arts and Cultural Committee and naming members.

Authorizing a budget amendment to cover playground equipment for Spook Hill

Accepting a Donation to Fishing Camp Program

The Non-Consent Resolutions (meaning further discussion to occur)

Rescheduling of February 26th town board meeting to February 29 - approved

Resolution approving Hogan, Rossi, & Ligouri, LLP as the Town Board attorneys - approved They will not be representing the planning or zoning board -- just the town board - a healthy change in legal support.

Resolution to add additional street lighting on Route 9 - approved. the site of a pedestrian accident last week - near 1281 Route 9.

Resolution re-establishing a Town of Wappinger Recreation Committee - Tabled. While the board expressed support for the Recreation committee and citizen involvement, they wanted more information about the structure and the suggestion that a paid position be included - so more work to be done.

Resolution to terminate a provisional employee's position with the town - approved

Resolution to hire a Personnel Assistant - under the direction of the comptroller - approved

Resolution to purchase software which will allow residents to see/pay their tax/water/sewer bills - enabling smoother, more productive operations in the Comptroller's office - approved.

The Board excused themselves at 7:59 for an executive session for "legal advice" and returned at 9:08 to adjourn the meeting.