A lively discussion over a proposed law to clean up properties of non-compliant residents ensued at the Feb. 13 Town of Perrysburg Board meeting.

     Drafted to protect the town from incurring costs of cleanup and/or unpaid fines, the law would impose a levy against the property owner’s taxes for any expenses incurred by the town. This could include removing debris, appliances/vehicles/RVs deemed as junk, clutter, litter, and unsafe/condemned buildings.

     One section of the draft pertaining to vehicles had many questioning the definition of and feasibility of imposing limits on “junk” vehicles and farm machinery. It was noted that some residents have “seasonal” vehicles that sit for a portion of the year with no plates. Yet, if adopted as drafted, the law would consider them junk. Some residents have farm implements that become part of the landscape until they are needed for harvesting, etc. Some of the machinery that sits on the property is used for parts.

     These would be exceptions to the rule, explained Building Inspector/Code Enforcement Officer Jim Pacanowski. As long as a resident intends to use the vehicle/equipment, there would be no problem. He further stated that this proposed law is meant more for the habitual violator.

     After much debate, the board decided to rethink that particular section of the draft. (State law allows one unlicensed vehicle on a property.)

     Pacanowski also asked the board to change the wording regarding extensions. The board agreed that rather than the board, the code enforcement officer has the authorization to grant extensions to residents who are attempting to clean up their property.

     Having heard various comments on different sections of the proposed law, the town board decided to discuss the provisions further and present a second draft at the next board meeting, March 13. Residents are urged to attend the March meeting to provide input.

     In an unrelated matter, Supervisor Myrton Sprague gave an update on the water projects.

     The Versailles Water Project appears to be moving ahead. Two meetings were held with Seneca Nation representatives where it was announced that the Nation had been turned down for an Environmental Protection Agency grant and USDA loan for the 750 feet of pipeline needed to connect the Versailles line to the Nation’s water supply. Therefore the town will incur the additional cost of $60,000, but it will not impact the homeowners. The town has its funding for the project in place.

     This action resulted in the passing of two resolutions. One, to sign an agreement with the Seneca Nation since work will begin on Nation property, and second, to amend Engineer Mark Alianello’s agreement since he will be involved with the 750 feet of water main installation.

     Regarding the Central Water Project, a the Village of Perrysburg owns the water distribution system, an agreement is needed between the village and the Central Water District. Thus, the town board approved an agreement with the village that will transfer the water distribution system to the Central Water District.

     The town board also agreed to retain the law firm of Lundberg and Gustafson LLP to contract for eminent domain (property rights) to install the pipeline. Legal fees will be calculated at $150 per hour. Attorney Gregory Yaw advised the town to hire Lundberg and Gustafson as they are well versed in municipal matters.

     In other action for the Central Water Project to move forward, the board authorized the supervisor to sign the water supply permit application, and agreed to take over OMRDD infrastructure when the water project is up and running.

     The Prospect Street Water Project is progressing as well. The attorney has the needed easements. Once they are filed in Little Valley, the town can put the project out to bid.

     One stipulation regarding this project is the request from Village of Gowanda Water Superintendent Carl Sternisha that copper pipe be installed when the project gets under way.

     In other matters, the board:

   •  Announced that Councilmen Dick Gabel and Tom Howard will walk the fence line with Tom Dewey on Feb. 23 hoping to resolve dispute between neighbors.

   •  Approved Building Inspector/Code Enforcement Officer Jim Pacanowski’s request to attend a seminar on April 25 in Williamsville that will focus on the 2006 fire codes. The $25 cost for the seven-hour in-service training will be shared by the village.

   •  Heard Highway Superintendent Dan Stang report that his crew has been contending with the winter weather and working on potholes when the weather permits.

     Regarding repairs, a new chain was installed on Truck #9 (sander); a new turbo was installed on Truck #10 (new truck); and the grader repairs are complete (to the tune of $4,500).

     Stang also noted that the new truck that was ordered should arrive in two or three weeks, and the highway crew is also preparing equipment for spring.

     Lastly, he announced that the owner of the gravel pit doesn’t wish to renew the permit, which will expire in September, and asked that the town board give some thought to purchasing a used chipper. The approximate cost of $10,000 will save time and manpower.

     Heard Dog Warden Kathy Hagner report that she caught six dogs. Four went to the SPCA, one was claimed and one was put up for adoption.

     She reminds residents to license their dogs. This is the year that the three-year rabies shot/license program goes into effect. Hagner begins the dog census on Feb. 15.

   •  Is considering a tax exemption/reduction for firefighters of 10 percent of assessed valuation or up to $3,000 off the property assessment. The town clerk will research the impact and the board will discuss it further.

   •  Noted the audits of the justices’ books and town clerk’s books are in order. The Versailles Fire Company is to have two years worth of books audited by March.

     The next Town of Perrysburg Board meeting is March 13 at 7 p.m. in the town hall.