Proposed increase in snow contract

By TOM KANE

HORTONVILLE — Delaware Town Highway Superintendent Bill Eschenberg told town board members on May 15 that five town superintendents of highways are asking for an increase from the county in the cost of snow and ice removal.

Cochecton and Tusten are the only towns that do not have snow and ice removal contracts with the county.

The contracts expire at the end of June. The county wants to renew the three-year contract with the same terms and conditions.

“The five of us are asking for an additional $100,” Eschenberg said. The town now gets paid $4,000 a mile, he said.

The five superintendents met with Public Works Commissioner Pete Lilholt and Phil Nicoletti of his staff. Eschenberg asked for the support of local legislators Chris Cunningham and Rodney Gaebel. Councilman Arnold Baum said it was only a $1,200 increase and was needed to cover expenses.

Eschenberg said the county would get back to the superintendents in June.