May 16, 2022, CWT Executive Board Meeting Minutes
Location:  ZOOM

Present:  Ric Coombe, David Kukle, Bud Gladstone, David Edinger, Bill Federice, Edward Snow, Greg Vurckio, Steve Walker,  Greg Kroyer, Bennett Ratcliff,  Christina Viafore

Others:  Jeff Baker,  Jason Merwin, Nick Carbone, Bruce Dolph, Thomas Hoyt, Michelle Yost, Cher Woehl, Anna Lehr Mueser (visiting graduate student)

1.  Call to Order:  Ric Coombe called the meeting to order at 6:18 pm.

2.  April 18, 2022, Meeting Minutes Approval:  Motion to approve the minutes made by Bud Gladstone and seconded by Steve Walker.  Motion carried.    

3. Reports:

a.  FAD Deliverables:  Jeff provided a report of the Revised FAD that was issued for review on April 20, 2022.  Jeff shared that he would be providing an overview of the FAD, when it came about and how we got to where we are today.  He shared that the comments to the revised FAD are due by June 3, 2022.  As the revised FAD is an extensive document requiring significant review, the members agreed to request an extension of time for submitting CWT review input.   The motion to direct Jeff Baker to write to NYSDOH to request an extension for written comments on the Draft Revised FAD until July 31, 2022, was made by Steve Walker, seconded by Ed Snow.  Motion carried.    Jeff shared that CWT would need to go into executive session to continue the discussions on the FAD, based on the information to be shared.

b.  Streamside Acquisition:  nothing to report

c.  Flood Commission Report:  nothing to report 

d.  CWC Report:  Jason reported that DEP issued a letter accepting the historical septage numbers.  The contracts were to be effective immediately.  Jason also reported that he and Tim (Cox) are working on the CWC responses to the revised FAD.  A special meeting of the CWC Board will be held on May 23^rd to obtain all FAD comments.   Greg asked Jason if they are accepting new septic projects, to which Jason responded yes they are fully open and ready to move forward.

e.  Below the Reservoirs – nothing to report

4.  Members agreed to address an additional meeting information prior to Executive Session.   Following items were addressed:

• Ric indicated that it is time to issue the annual dues letter.  Jeff will work with Cher on this.
• Nick asked members if anyone had experienced or heard of any issues with farmers wanting to rent from DEP.  He indicated that the agreements are very restrictive and extensive.  Bud shared that there were issues last year with the licenses, but he has been in conversation with Paul Rush, new manager of the program, to resolve some of the issues.  Ric shared that he is a lease holder for some hay land and has not experienced any issues.  Members were asked to ‘keep their eyes and ears open’ and report on any problems they become aware of.

5. Bill Federice made the motion, seconded by Bud Gladstone, to move into Executive Session for further discussion on the FAD contract.  Motion carried.   At 6:42 p.m. CWT Executive Board Members and required attendees moved into Executive Session where Jeff Baker briefed everyone on ongoing negotiations with FAD.  No actions were taken in Executive Session.   At 7:15 p.m. Steve Walker made the motion, seconded by Bill Federice, to return to regular CWT meeting.  Motion carried.

6. Warrants and Treasurer’s Report:   Bud reported that as of April 29, 2022,  the checking account has $2,349.92 and the savings account has $136,974.07.  Steve Walker made motion to accept the Treasurer’s report, seconded by Ed Snow.  Report accepted.   Bud presented warrant #93 in the amount of $3,606.70 for payment of April legal fees.  Greg Vurckio made a motion to pay warrant #93, seconded by David Edinger.  Motion carried.

7.  Christina asked if CWT meetings could be ‘hybrid’ meetings, being attended in person and through ZOOM.  Jeff reported that after June 1, 2022, hybrid meetings would be available, making sure that everyone was aware that to have a quorum there must be at least 5 members in attendance in person.  Bud suggested that Cher sends an email to members prior to the meeting to find out who would be attending in person vs. attending via ZOOM.

8.  Adjourn:  Motion to adjourn was made by Greg Vurckio, seconded by Bud Gladstone.  Motion carried.  Meeting adjourned at 7:19 pm. 

Location:  ZOOM

Present:  Ric Coombe, David Kukle, Bud Gladstone, David Edinger, Bill Federice, Edward Snow, Greg Vurckio, Steve Walker, Winifred Zubin, Scott Grey, Greg Kroyer, Bennett Ratcliff,  Christina Viafore

Others:  Jeff Baker, Tim Cox, Jason Merwin, Nick Carbone, Bruce Dolph, Thomas Hoyt, Michelle Yost, Heidi Emrich, Lillian Brown, Cher Woehl

1.  Call to Order:  Ric Coombe called the meeting to order at 6:46 pm.

2.  Ric welcomed everyone and asked Jeff to share the results of our recent elections.  Jeff introduced himself to the new members (the counsel for CWT) and shared the following:

• From Delaware County – Regular members are  Wayland (Bud) Gladstone, Edward Snow (new), and Winifred Zubin (new).  Alternate members are Shayne Moshier, Will Outsen (new) and Christina Viafore (new).
• From Greene County – Regular members are David Kukle and Steve Walker.  Alternate members are Greg Cross (new) and Greg Kroyer (new).
• From Schoharie County – Regular member is Bill Federice.  Alternate member is Lester Parker.
• From Sullivan County – Regular member is Ric Coombe.  Alternate member is Scott Grey.
• From Ulster County – Regular members are David Edinger (new) and Greg Vurckio.  Alternative members are Drew Boggess and Bennett Ratcliff (new).

Ric congratulated our new members and encouraged everyone to participate as CWT moves forward with the focus on the future of the watersheds. 3.  March 21, 2022, Meeting Minutes Approval:  Motion to approve the minutes made by Steve Walker and seconded by Bud Gladstone.  Motion carried.

4.  Election of CWT Officers:  Ric opened the vote for the new CWT officers by first sharing who the current officers are: Ric Coombe-Chairman, David Kukle-Vice Chairman and Bud Gladstone-Treasurer.  Ric asked for a motion to elect new officers, either by individual positions or by keeping the current slate of officers.   Steve Walker made the motion to retain the current slate of officers.  Bill Federice seconded the motion.  Ric called for the members roll call vote as follows:

CWT Member Wayland (Bud) Gladstone       voting              Yes

CWT Member Edward H. Snow                        voting              Yes

CWT Member Winifred Zubin                        abstain                                   

CWT Member David Kukle                             voting              Yes

CWT Member Steve Walker                           voting              Yes

CWT Member William Federice                     voting              Yes

CWT Member Ric Coombe                             voting              Yes

CWT Member David Edinger                          voting              Yes

CWT Greg Vurckio                                          voting              Yes

Motion to retain the current officers was carried with eight (8) yes votes and one abstain.

5.  Reports:
a.  FAD Deliverables: 

• Jeff provided the history and background on the septage issue CWC with support from CWT are currently working to resolve.   The issue lies with the amount of septage NYC is willing to accept from the watersheds.  Jeff provided an in-depth explanation of the watershed agreements with DEP that were put in place in 1997 and then revised in 2016.  Jeff then turned the discussion over to Ric and Jason (Merwin) to share the results of the meeting they had with DEP Deputy Commissioner Paul Rush on Monday, April 18^th, 2022, at the DEP office in Arkville.
     
• Both Ric and Jason felt the meeting was very productive and positive, sharing that Deputy Commissioner Rush understood the concerns brought forward by CWC and acknowledged the oversight that occurred when DEP reviewed the watershed agreements and septage amounts.     Deputy Commissioner Rush said that they are capacity constrained and need to look at options for sludge removal from their plants.  He also shared that they would return to historical amounts allowed as they continue to work with CWC and CWT on short-term and long-term solutions to this problem.   DEP emphasized their commitment to working towards mutual solutions and would be providing CWC a letter summarizing the meeting and short-term solution.
    
• Regarding the Delaware County Draft Resolution on the Septage Issue that was shared with members, Ric explained that while CWT supports the resolution,  official response will be held in abeyance until the letter from DEP is received.  In the event the DEP letter is unsatisfactory to CWT, then authorization will be provided to Jeff, with consultation from Ric, to move forward with an official complaint consistent with the Delaware County Resolution to the Partnership Council.  David Kukle made the motion to provide Jeff this authorization, Greg Vurckio seconded the motion.  Motion was carried.
   
• Jason shared that CWC will also move forward with a resolution to the Partnership Council in the event the DEP letter is not satisfactory.
    
• Once the DEP letter is received it will be shared with members and determination will be made if resolutions to the Partnership Council will be required.
   
• Ric closed this discussion thanking Jason, Tim (Cox) and Delaware County for reaching out to CWT for support and for assisting to lead this effort.

b.  Streamside Acquisition: 

• Jeff reported that the Land Acquisition Program is currently up for renewal and that SAP is currently being reviewed for extension.  One focus is on how to address the many issues communities have with SAP.  Jeff shared that discussions with NYC occurred in the previous week  and were very positive and encouraging.  Discussions will continue to move forward with small groups at first, then expanded to include others, with the goal to present a collective view to the State that has buy-in from the watershed communities.
  
• Jeff also reported that discussions are continuing on the conservation easements and provided an explanation on what conservation easements are and what changes they are attempting to make.
  
• Michelle shared that NYC is looking for a project that could demonstrate how land swapping could work and be successful. 

c.  Flood Commission Reports – nothing to report—Ric explained to new members what this entailed.

d.  CWC Report –  Jason reported the following:

• The CWC Annual Meeting had their annual meeting and reelected new board members.
• CWC is still working on negotiating the contracts reported on in previous meetings.

e.  Below the Reservoirs – nothing to report

6. Warrants and Treasurer’s Report:   Bud reported that as of March 31, 2022, 
the checking account has $1,501.99 and
the savings account has $139,951.85. 
Greg Vurckio made motion to accept the Treasurer’s report, seconded by David Edinger.  Report accepted.   Bud presented warrant #92 in the amount of $1,745.17 for payment of March legal fees of $573.50 and January – March administrative fees of $1,171.67.
Edward Snow made a motion to pay warrant #92, seconded by David Edinger.  Motion carried.

7.  Adjourn:  Motion to adjourn was made by Greg Vurckio, seconded by Bill Federice.  Motion carried.  Meeting adjourned at 7:41 pm.

Location:  ZOOM

Present:  Ric Coombe, Greg Vurckio, Bud Gladstone, Bill Federice,  David Kuckle, Steve Walker,

Others:   Jeff Baker, Tim Cox, Bruce Dolph, Nick Carbone, Jason Merwin, Thomas Holt, Michelle Yost, Cher Woehl

1.  Call to Order:  Ric Coombe called the meeting to order at 6:19 pm.

2.  February 21, 2022, Meeting Minutes Approval:  Motion to approve minutes made by Greg Vurckio, seconded by Steve Walker.  Motion carried.

3.  Elections:  Jeff provided an update on the elections, sharing that he has received majority of election ballots.   He anticipates receiving the remainder by the due date.   Ric commented CWT will be able to reorganize and appoint any new executive committee positions at the April meeting.   

4.  Catskill Center Correspondence re: NYC Watershed Land Acquisition Program: 
Ric opened the discussion on the letter sent from the Catskill Center to Dr. Mary Basset, Commissioner NYS Department of Health regarding the NYC Watershed Land Acquisition Program.  Ric’s primary message was that CWT needs to present a unified front , working together, in addressing these challenges.   He shared that it is critical that CWT is part of the process, although he voiced the concern that there doesn’t appear to be a process in place.  He asked members if they (1) were comfortable with the process that is currently occurring; (2) do they feel there is enough meetings with all stakeholders involved in discussing the challenges; and (3) do they feel they are part of the current process?   With those questions posed to the members, Ric opened the floor for discussion.

Members provided the following comments and concerns:

• Jeff felt that there needs to be more clarity and openness in the process.  He also agreed that there needs to be a push for more stakeholder meetings, including meetings to define/share what the process is going to be.  Jeff thought the letter in general was a good one, with nothing included that could be deemed too offensive or negative.
• David spoke to the stakeholders meeting, stating that he understood it is a meeting where everyone is around the table discussing various issues and items.  He asked Jeff when the last time a stakeholder meeting like this was held.   Jeff indicated that there has not been an “in-person” stakeholder meeting for some time however there was a ZOOM meeting last fall.  In- person meetings  became restrictive due to the COVID requirements.  Ric shared that in the last stakeholder meetings, discussions did not get into the detail levels that they need to be.
• Thomas had some concerns with the letter.   He felt the Catskill Center was not acting as a stakeholder but as an “arm of DEP”, forcing landowners to sell without regard to market values.  He gave some scenarios which could allow for bending of rules thus enabling DEP to obtain the land they want without allowing for easements on the properties.  Thomas’ main concern was that this letter portrays the Catskill Center as an agent for DEP.   Jeff responded to Thomas’ concerns clarifying that Catskill Center is not really acting as an agent for DEP.  They are a full stakeholder and participate in discussions as such.  They are an agent to DEP on SAP, but Jeff felt this did not impact their position on this overall issue.  Jeff further stated that Catskill Center does want a successful SAP which they believe is better than the Land Acquisition Program.  Jeff reiterated that Catskill Center has an independent voice on the watershed and is a reliable partner.   Jeff informed Thomas that the SAP acquisition issues he raised are currently being addressed. 
• Thomas asked how we can allow SAP to go forward with these issues still not addressed, stating that they can’t even be resolved at the county level (using Scholarie as the example).  Jeff assured Thomas that before SAP is expanded we will want to address and resolve the easement/utilities issues.
• David shared that there is support for the Delaware proposal as it addresses the easement/utilities issues.  Nick commented that this is one of the major concerns Delaware has and wants to resolve.   He also shared that a Delaware want towns to have the choice of opting in or out of the program.  This is a major concern that Delaware is trying to address.
• Michelle asked Jeff if discussions have occurred on the conservation easement issues.  Jeff replied that discussions are in process, and they are attempting to clarify language.  Thomas indicated that as the Supervisor for the Town of Windham he would assume he would be asked to be involved in these discussions.  He has not been asked to participate and questioned who participates in the discussions.  Jeff reiterated that he is involved currently working on the language and will share with members when completed.
• Michelle commented that there is a need to define the critical areas of the program.  Jeff concurred affirming that parameters for SAP need to be defined including providing better definitions of the guidelines and rules of the program.  This information is critical when working with the towns on opting into the program. 
• Bruce voiced a concern regarding towns being asked to change their zoning regulations.   He questioned if a town refuses to modify their zoning regulations, then their only option is to sell sub-divided small parcels, and this is not a good road to go down.   Jeff clarified that the purpose of the sub-division language is to allow the City to buy land along the streams, thereby ‘creating’ a lot on land that cannot be used for anything else.  Allowing this to happen provides for easements and allows for access to the buffers.   Jeff also reiterated that this language is a tool and not mandatory for development.  Bruce asked if we allow for changes in the zoning regulations for the City then shouldn’t others be allowed to do the same thing?   Jeff said no.  However, if a town wanted to open this option up for other conservation type organizations they could.  Jeff explained that there is legal authority for the City that allows them to obtain land to protect their water supply, and this would fall within that authority.  Ric commented that this is yet another example as to why CWT needs to be involved in the process. 
• A question regarding large land acquisitions was raised, and Jeff explained that it would be unrealistic for towns to think that we will go into next phase with zero land acquisitions, especially if we move forward with a SAP-like program.   
• Bud conveyed that he is not comfortable with SAP.  He indicated that if any streamside land is going to be purchased, there needs to be a structure and agreement in place that stipulates there must be a swap with land that is not at streamside.  He felt that with every parcel purchase in the township there needs to be a release of something else/other land.  Ric replied that per the National Academy of Sciences, trading is crucial.  It makes more sense to swap lands.  Ric again stated that we need to provide the city examples of land swaps so that they have a better understanding of this concept and how it works.
• In response to Bruce’s comment that land swaps are not going to happen unless we get out of easements, Ric again said that CWT needs to come forward with reasonable examples, not just concepts.  These examples need to be shared with all individuals/organizations that have an interest so that they can begin understanding the issues and help to move the issue resolution process forward.   These examples need to demonstrate why and how we get out of easements.
• In closing, Ric assured everyone that CWT does have a place at the Stakeholder meeting table.  The problem is that there are not enough meetings.  He said we need to get the message to the stakeholders that CWT expects more, wants more and will be more involved in these meetings.
• Ric asked Jeff to draft a letter to DEC, DOH and DEP sharing our concerns about the process going forward and would like to see more meetings to further discussions. 

5.  Reports:              
a.  FAD Deliverables – nothing to report              
b.  Streamside Acquisition – nothing additional to report              
c.  Flood Commissions Reports – nothing to report              
d.  CWC Report – Jason reported on the following:

• CWC is still trying to work with the city for short-term and long-term solutions for the septic hauling issue.  The amount of septic hauling allowed is being reduced drastically from 70,000-26,000 gallons a week.  Currently, the city is taking in approximately 40,000 gallons a week, which is a little over half of the allowable amount.   Jason said they are working on the short-term solution, hoping that CWT can assist with developing a long-term solution.   Jeff asked Jason to provide CWT with what they want, what CWT can do to help.  Ric asked for a motion to authorize Jeff to get involved in on behalf of CWT.  Steve Walker made the motion, Bud Federice seconded.  Motion was carried.
    
• The CWC annual board meeting is scheduled for April 5 and shared there are three (3) board seats up for election.

6.  Warrant(s) and Treasurer’s Report: 
Bud reported that as of February 28, 2022 ,
the checking account has $3,918.55 and
the savings account has $139,928.08. 
Motion was made by David Kuckle to accept the Treasurer’s report, seconded by Bill Federice.  Report accepted.  
Bud presented warrant #91 in the amount of $407.00 for payment of February legal fees. 
Greg Vurckio made a motion to pay this warrant, seconded by Steve Walker.  Motion carried.

7. Adjourn:   Meeting was adjourned by Ric Coombe at 7:22 pm.

Location:  ZOOM

Present:  Ric Coombe, Greg Vurckio, Bud Gladstone, Bill Federice, Larry Reilly, Scott Grey, Steve Walker,

Others:   Jeff Baker, Tim Cox, Bruce Dolph, Nick Carbone, Jason Merwin, Cher Woehl

1.  Call to Order:  Ric Coombe called the meeting to order at 6:16 pm.

2.  January 17, 2022, Meeting Minutes Approval:  Motion to approve minutes made by Bud Gladstone, seconded by Greg Vurckio.  Motion carried.

3.  Ric provided an update on membership dues, sharing that we received 2021 dues from Greene County, Town of Middletown,  and the Village of Hunter.   Halcott is the only outstanding membership dues for 2021.

4.  Elections:  Jeff provided an update on the elections.  Jeff shared that nominations were received from Sullivan (Neversink) and Scholarie counties so far.   Deadline for submitting nominations was Friday, February 18, 2022.  Several members indicated their towns/villages and other towns/villages in their county had not received their nomination forms.    Cher indicated all nomination forms were mailed on January 31, 2022.   Discussion occurred on emailing the nomination forms to the county towns/villages that had not received them and to extend the deadline for submitting nominations by 10 days.   Bill Federice made a motion to extend the deadline for submitting nominations by 10 days, Steve Walker seconded the motion.  Motion was carried.   All agreed that the election forms would be resent via email with a March 2, 2022, deadline for submitting nominations.  Jeff will draft the letter for Cher to include in the email submission.

5.  Delaware County Alternative to Streamside Acquisition Program (SAP):  The alternative proposal to the Streamside Acquisition Program (SAP) in Delaware County, as provided by Nick at the January 17, 2022, meeting, was discussed by the members.  In summary, Delaware County is proposing to adopt a program similar to the CREP/CSBI model, which provides for the property owners to retain ownership of their land.   The proposal also looks to expand the program to include owners of existing forested buffers which are currently not included in CSBI/CREP as they are not considered to be active agricultural lands.   The program would include financial incentives in the form of rental agreements.  An in-depth dialogue amongst the members on the proposal transpired, addressing its benefits and areas that need to be further developed.   Input from members and guests included:

• Bud had positive comments on CREP, stating that he felt it was a good, solid program which serves the purpose of keeping the land in private ownership.  He felt this was a less complicated process than SAP.   Bud also voiced concerns regarding his position of chair on the Watershed Council and would he need to abstain from any discussions or votes on this matter.   Per Jeff, there are no ethics issues at this point as this is still a conceptual proposal being discussed by CWT.  Therefore, Bud can participate in any discussion.
• Nick pointed out that CREP is for agricultural land only, and the Delaware County proposal will allow for non-farming land to enter the program.  Nick also shared that with this proposal Towns will have input on whether they will participate in the program, however if SAP is expanded the Towns will have no say on participation.
• Jeff commented on the concept of annual payments under this proposal, stating that it was economically better.
• He agrees with the overall goal of the proposal and felt CWT should continue to go forward with further discussions.
• Ric commented that the concept of renting the land is better than the current SAP and would be a benefit to the participating communities.  Ric also pointed out that administration of this proposal could be challenging, specifically if it allows for minimal acreage to be leased.  
• Bruce felt that this proposal, which is a CREP like program, would be a benefit as it would increase the water quality by allowing the forested buffers to participate.
• Steve commented that the proposal allowed for the ability to maintain and improve the infrastructure by expanding the amount of included land.

Members agreed that while this may not be the total solution to the SAP issues, it is a better alternative to SAP.   Ric stated that CWT supports the Delaware County proposal, as it does address the “holes” in the current acquisition program.  He emphasized the CWT needs to be consistent in its message and recommended that issues continued to be addressed as CWT moves forward on this matter.

6.  Reports:

               a.  FAD Deliverables – nothing to report

               b.  Streamside Acquisition – nothing to report, in addition to the discussion

               c.  Flood Commissions Reports – nothing to report

               d.  CWC Report – Jason reported on the following:

• CWC and NYC reached agreement on the septic program and $7.5 million has been received for the program. 
• An issue currently faced by Septic Program is the need for engineers to design the systems.  There is a staffing issue within the watershed.  He asked members to share within their towns to help find qualified candidates.
• There may be an issue surfacing regarding NYC and its obligations with the septic program.  NYC is looking to drastically reduce the amount of septic they will accept from 70,000 gallons a week to 26,000 gallons a week.   Jeff asked that Jason prepare a letter reminding NYC of their requirement to assist the septic program on this.  If they reduce the amounts accepted, there will be a significant impact to the program funding available for upgrading and maintaining the septic systems as this would require utilizing sources outside of the watershed for this function.   Jeff suggested that Ric bring this issue up at the principals meeting. 
• There could be a gap in the Flood Hazard Program funding (like what occurred in the septic program) as to date there is not an agreement in place for renewing this program.
• Bids have been received for the Halcottsville Project.  Bids are being advertised for the New Kingston Project.

7.  Ric addressed the changes in the administration,  once again raising the question of whether CWT wants to be part of the changes, providing education on the watershed programs and issues, or does CWT want to be in the background as change happens.   Members agreed that CWT needs to be part of the process and should look to schedule a meeting with the appropriate attendees to begin the communications and education on the watershed and CWT.  Considering the issues raised by Jason, the members suggested the new Commissioner be invited here sooner than later so that the education process can begin before significant impacts to the programs in the watershed occur.  

8.  Warrant(s) and Treasurer’s Report:  Bud reported that as of January 31, 2022 , the checking account has $2,318.35 and the savings account has $137,006.60.  Motion was made by Larry Reilly to accept the Treasurer’s report, seconded by Steve Walker.  Report accepted.  
Bud presented warrant #90 in the amount of $2,916.70 for payment of legal fees from August 2021 thru January 2022.  Steve Walker made a motion to pay this warrant, seconded by Greg Vurckio.  Motion carried.

9.  Other:  Ric asked Tim Cox and Jason Merwin if our March meeting can be held at CWC headquarters.   Tim and Jason had no issues and agreed to have the CWT meetings at the Margaretville Arkville office.  

10.  Adjourn:   Meeting was adjourned by Ric Coombe at 7:07 pm.  

Location:  ZOOM

Present:  Ric Coombe, Greg Vurckio, Bud Gladstone, Bill Federice, Larry Reilly, Scott Grey, Steve Walker,

Others:   Jeff Baker, Tim Cox, Bruce Dolph, Nick Carbone, Jason Merwin, Cher Woehl

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

2.  October 18, 2021, Meeting Minutes Approval:  Motion to approve minutes made by Greg Vurckio, seconded by Bill Federice.  Motion carried.

3.  Membership Dues:  Cher provided update on 2021 membership dues still outstanding for Town of Middletown ($1500), Green Co. ($2250), Town of Halcott ($750) and Village of Hunter ($750).  She also reported that payment of Wawarsing was received last week in the amount of $1500 and that Town of Stamford paid $1000 of their $1500 balance due.

Ric said that as we move forward we need to provide the membership dues letter earlier in the year, with CWT sending reminders as required through out the year.  He emphasized that CWT needs to communicate its value and continue to pursue participation of all the counties, towns and villages.  Ric, Jeff and Cher will work on the 2022 Membership Letter with the goal of releasing it in March.

4.  Elections:  Now that Towns have had their 2021 elections,  CWT elections need to occur.  Letters need to be sent to the municipalities by week of January 24th.  Jeff reiterated the “process and time-frames” as follows and indicated that he will work with Ric and Cher on this:

• 1^st round of letters asks for candidate nominations and is due in 30 days
• 2^nd round is the voting ballots which must be returned within 30 days
• 3^rd round is the announcement of new CWT board members which should occur in April.

5.  Delaware County Land Acquisition Resolution:  Nick provided a summary of the proposed resolution, explaining its purpose and providing background on Delaware County actions that this resolution supports.  Nick further explained that the Delaware County proposal has been submitted and adopted by every town and majority of the villages in Delaware.  It has also been adopted in Schoharie, Ulster and Green Counties.   Steve Walker made a motion to introduce the resolution, seconded by Bud Gladstone.   Ric opened the discussion of the resolution by members.   A lengthy discussion occurred with points made by several members including the following:

• Bud stated that while SAP will control minimum amount of property, it would have major impact to owners who own the land, which could be a silent way of acquiring a little land with control of all the land.
• Jeff responded to Bud’s concern by stating that if SAP was properly designed it would address the issue Bud raised and not create land-locks or buffers.   Jeff also said that CWT needs to exercise it ability top get a better design of SAP to make it work as originally intended.
• Steve had a concern that this would result in one’s inability to repair an infrastructure without going through several ‘hoops’.

 After additional discussion on these concerns occurred Ric called for the members roll call vote as follows:

CWT Chair Ric Coombe                                                              voting                  AYE  

CWT Board Member Wayland (Bud) Gladstone                  voting                  AYE

CWT Board Member Greg Vurckio                                          voting                  AYE

CWT Board Member William Federice                                   voting                  AYE

CWT Alternate Member Larry Reilly                                       voting                  AYE

CWT Alternate Member Steve Walker                                   voting                  AYE

The resolution was thereupon declared duly adopted as CWT RESOLUTION NO 1 OF 2022, dated January 17, 2022.  

After the vote of the resolution it was an opportune time for Nick to brief everyone on the Alternative to SAP in Delaware County proposal.  This proposal mirrors the Federal Conservation Reserve Enhanced Program (CREP) and is a natural progression to expand a program that is already in place, allowing landowners to be included in the program while allowing them to keep their land.  As this proposal was provided to board members the day of the board meeting, Ric asked that it be deferred to the February meeting.  This will enable members to thoroughly review the information and be better prepared to discuss.   Members agreed with the deferral.   Ric requested that Nick develop examples and models for the February discussion.   Ric also suggested that it may be beneficial if Delaware County was able to provide the NYC DEP a real land swap proposal, to help facilitate the discussion with NYC DEP, and other stakeholders going forward.  

6.  Reports:

               a.  FAD Deliverables – nothing to report

               b.  Streamside Acquisition – nothing to report, in addition to the discussion

               c.  Flood Commissions Reports – nothing to report

               d.  CWC Report – Jason reported that there has been a very positive outcome on the septic program meetings with NYC.  Discussions and negotiations have reached an agreement that is acceptable to NYC and CWC which will allow for the septic program to operate at full capacity.  Jason reported that these were constructive  negotiations which resulted in mutually agreeable solutions and positive outcomes.    Jason also reported that CWC is in their election process and anticipates new board members by April 2022.

               e.  Below the Reservoirs – Ric shared his recent experience with observing the replacement of the valves at the reservoir.  He indicated it was extremely fascinating and that this system is incredible.  

7.  Warrant(s) and Treasurer’s Report:  Bud reported that as of December 31, 2021,
the checking account has $2,825.15 and
the savings account has $133,233.53. 
Motion was made by Steve Walker to accept the Treasurer’s report, seconded by Bill Federice.  Report accepted.  
Ric and Cher explained the warrant for payment to the Town of Neversink for administrative support from September 2021 thru December 2021.  The total amount to be paid is $1,507.10, of which $1,400.00 is total gross wage (based on $350 per month) and $107.10 is for the employer share of Social Security and Medicare.   The “warrant” was provided in a letter from the Town of Neversink.  Ric asked members if they would accept the letter this time, with the caveat that in the future CWT will receive an Invoice for Payment and the warrant as in normal procedure.   All agreed the letter was acceptable as the invoice.  Greg Vurckio moved to pay the warrant of $1,507.10 for administrative support.  Steve Walker seconded the motion.  Motion carried.

8. Other:  Ric suggested considering the season and temperamental weather that our February meeting be a ZOOM meeting.  All agreed.

9.  Adjourn:   Motion to adjourn made by Greg Vurckio, seconded by Bill Federice.  Motion carried and meeting was adjourned at 7:09 pm.