Location:  CWC Headquarters (Arkville, NY)

Present:  Ric Coombe, Scott Grey, David Kukle, Bud Gladstone, Ed Snow, Glen Faulkner, Will Outsen, Jeff Gearhart, David Edinger, Greg Vurckio

Others:  Jeff Baker, Tim Cox, Jason Merwin, Jessica Fiedler, Michelle Yost, Mary Crisafulli, Elizabeth DeFalco, Cher Woehl

1.  Call to Order:  Ric called the meeting to order at 6:17 pm.

2.  August 19, 2024, Meeting Minutes Approval:  Motion to approve the minutes made by Bud Gladstone and seconded by Ed Snow. Motion carried.   

3. & 4.  LAP/SAP Negotiations/Status of Amended City CE to State Updates:  Ric and Jeff provided an update on the negotiations stating that there is very positive momentum regarding the more significant changes being requested.  Jeff shared that discussions on the CORE LAP are going very well, and that they have established smaller workgroups to address the open items, including the licensing agreement. 

On the amended City CE to State negotiations, Jeff shared that they are very close to a full agreement.  However, there is an issue that is still in discussion and Jeff requested input from the board members on what stand CWT will take.  The issue deals with the City’s use of land for solar power projects.  The City agrees that all solar power projects will be subject to local land use regulations.   However, some of the environmental groups have raised concerns on how much land the City uses for these solar farms.  Jeff asked the board members if there should be limits on the amount of land and forest that can be used for solar farms.  He shared that one option is to allow 2 acres per project.  Another option is to allow up to 5 acres per project.   And the final option discussed was to allow each town/village to establish their limits.

Ric  shared that solar farms, in the right places, are positive for our communities.  In response to Bud’s concern regarding the City using farmland Ric agreed that should not be taken by the City but a solar farm on unused land is a good option.   After much discussion amongst the board members, it was agreed that CWT is supportive of solar projects by the City with the 2-acre/5-acre maximum restriction.  Jeff reminded everyone that while it is up to the City if they want solar farms on their land, DEP and in some instances DEC, approval is required and the projects must meet the local laws before moving forward.   Board members also agreed that the amendment must include language that protects prime soil lands. 

Jeff shared there was nothing new to report on the progress of the State Wetlands regulations. 

5. CWC Report:  Jason provided the following CWC report:

• Agreement was reached on the contract for the Shokan Wastewater Plan project. 

Ed expressed his thanks to CWC for their support in loaning the funds needed by the Village of Walton. 

6.  Warrants and Treasurer’s Report: 
Bud reported that as of October 31, 2024,
the checking account had $6,914.55,
the savings account had $73,732.76,
and the CD had $50,000. 
Glen Faulkner made the motion to accept the Treasurer’s report, seconded by David Edinger. Report accepted.  

Bud presented warrant #111 in the amount of $4,031.03 for payment of October legal fees and administrative support fees. 
Ed Snow made the motion to pay warrant #111, seconded by Greg Faulkner. 
Motion carried.   

7.  Other:  Ric shared that there have been many conversations regarding the shortage of water due to the drought and the impact on aqueduct projects.  He suggested we invite Assistant Commissioner Shiloh Williams to our next meeting for discussion on this.   Board members agreed.

8.  Adjourn:  Motion to adjourn was made by Greg Vurckio,  seconded by Bud Gladstone.  Motion carried.  The meeting adjourned at 7:00 pm.