Executive Board Meeting – Jan 15, 2024

Location:  CWC Headquarters (Arkville, NY)

Present:  Ric Coombe, Scott Grey, David Kukle, Bud Gladstone, Edward Snow, David Edinger, Greg Vurckio, Will Outsen, Bill Federice

Others:  Jeff Baker, Jason Merwin, Bruce Dolph, Elizabeth DeFalco, Mary Crisafulli, Cher Woehl

1.  Call to Order:  Ric Coombe called the meeting to order at 6:22pm.

2.  December 18, 2023 Meeting Minutes Approval:  Motion to approve the minutes made by Ed Snow and seconded by Will Outsen.  Motion carried.    

3.  LAP/SAP Negotiations:  Jeff gave an update on the LAP/SAP negotiations sharing that they are moving forward and looking to wrap up the collaborative SAP process.  He shared that the city put together a report to DOH stating that negotiations were still in progress, and all is still going well with them.  DOH was appreciative of the report and the progress being made.  They did however indicate that the negotiations need to be completed by the end of June 2024.  Jeff explained that once the negotiations were completed it would take approximately 18 months to implement due to the various contract reviews and changes that will be required.  Jeff shared that one issue that continues to surface in the negotiations is the limitations in local laws on subdivisions.  Jeff had previously drafted model language for towns to adopt to allow for circumstance when city land acquisitions results in conflict with local laws.   He will share this language with the executive members.   Jeff further discussed that the Coalition’s position is if we get what we wanted for land acquisition in these negotiations, then we will work with the towns to implement and make the changes happen.  He further stated that if we reach an agreement then we will recommend the Coalition establishes a program to assist with this implementation in the towns.

4. Status of Amended City CE to State:   Jeff reported that comments on the Conservation Easement proposed amendments are due by the end of the month.  He shared that the State still had some questions that they are discussing. 

In general, Ric stated that CWT remains comfortable with all negotiations. We are proceeding in good faith and do not anticipate issues as we move forward.  

5. CWC Report:  Jason shared the following information in his CWC report:

  • CWC is working with DEP and the business-owner on the signage issue that was discussed in our December meeting.
  • Regarding the updates to the FAD, DEP is now required to have an annual meeting to discuss contract issues.  The annual meeting is scheduled for some time in February.  
  • CWC is 95% completed on the design of the Shokan Wastewater Plant.  This will be the largest wastewater plant in the watershed.

6.  Warrants and Treasurer’s Report:  Bud reported that as of December 31, 2023,
the checking account had $14,011.34 and
the savings account had $152,458.67. 
Ed Snow made the motion to accept the Treasurer’s report, seconded by Dave Kukle. 
Report accepted.  
Bud presented warrant #104 in the amount of $3,918.58 for payment of December legal fees and October-December Administration fees. 
Bill Federice made a motion to pay warrant #104, seconded by David Edinger.  Motion carried.   
Bud shared with the members that he will reach out to Delaware County regarding the purchase of a CD in the amount of $50,000 as approved in the December 2023 meeting. 

7.  Other:  Will Outsen asked if there was any further information to share on the State’s 30/20/30 legislative proposal.  Jeff stated that he would look into this for the members.

8.  AdjournMotion to adjourn was made by Greg Vurckio, seconded by Ed Snow.  Motion carried.  The meeting adjourned at 7:14 pm.