by Terri M. Bahne

     “I’m serving the public - doing my darndest to preserve [Point Peter Road],” Highway Superintendent Dan Ackley stated emphatically during the most recent Persia Town Board meeting held on Oct. 14.

     Ackley’s tireless efforts to save one lone - yet highly used - road has brought him to two options. As the Cattaraugus Creek has been eating away the soil that supports the road, so too is the potential for many hundreds of dollars to be eaten up with repairs. One option would be to cut off Point Peter Road, creating two dead ends on either side of the dangerous site, yet doing so would generate many hardships (especially in the case of an emergency). The other option would be to fix the road - although that is easier said than done.

     Ackley stated that FEMA has been out to look at the project, recommending that a geological study be done. In such a study, an equanometer would be used to detect unstable soil at any depth. Looking into the issue further, Ackley found out that the “test” would be conducted to the tune of $26,000, which he disapproves of at this point.

     Bringing the matter to the board, Ackley wanted to see where the consensus stood. “How much are we prepared to take out of savings to get longevity out of the Point Peter Road?” he asked.

     “I can’t see how we could afford it,” replied Councilwoman Paula Schueler.

     Ackley stated that his next step will be to look into federal funding, adding that he had located an Act that would provide up to $1 million in aid for situations such as these.

     Supervisor Mel LeBar expressed his gratitude for Ackley’s efforts stating, “I appreciate you looking into [this matter].”

     Other pertinent information includes:

   •  The next board meeting will be held on Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. instead of Nov. 11. Prior to the regular meeting will be a public hearing in regard to the budget. Until that time, the board approved a preliminary budget be adopted.
   •  A letter from the “Snow Bounders” snowmobile club was received. They asked the board for a letter of support as they are applying for a grant.
   •  Kristen Schaus is now holding two positions: deputy town clerk and judge Namlik’s court clerk.
   •  Town Assessor Mary Bailey reported that a few enhanced STAR renewals have been received and that, as a reminder, the 2003 adjusted gross income figures must be $64,650 or less. A 2003 copy of either the federal or state income tax must accompany all renewal forms. New applicants must be 65 years of age as of Dec. 31, 2005.
   •  Judge Andolsek heard 27 cases and brought in $2,385 in revenue for the past month.
   •  Judge Namlik heard 51 cases and brought in $2,700 in revenue for the past month.

     The next board meeting is Thursday, Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. in the Persia Town Hall.