Highland Town Board tackles 911 signage

Gypsy moths, failing roof also discussed

By SANDY LONG

ELDRED, NY — Approximately 45 individuals attended the Highland Planning Board’s monthly meeting on Tuesday, June 13. The board discussed the increasingly obvious gypsy moth invasion now impacting the region. Supervisor Steve Barnes recommended that the Town of Highland investigate the possibility of aerial spraying for spring 2007, since the spray period for 2006 has passed.

Councilman Donald Rupp called the caterpillars’ impact a “critical situation,” and expressed his opinion that the federal government should provide funding to assist the region in protecting its forests. Town clerk, Doreen Hanson, said that she has received numerous calls on the subject from residents. Councilman Andrew Valenti recommended looking into liability issues regarding spraying.

The board approved highway superintendent Norman Sutherland’s recommendation that bids be solicited for replacement of the town’s powerbroom, and approved the hiring of Cody Van Houten as a part-time seasonal employee. In addition to activities like mowing, Van Houghton will begin checking compliance with 911 signage on buildings.

Several residents expressed frustration over signage issues specific to their properties. Valenti explained, “By surveying the town, we’ll uncover the 911 problems.” One man noted the absence of 911 signage on the town’s own building, saying, “If the town doesn’t obey the rules, then why should the people?”

Councilman Robert Burrow responded that the missing signage had been ordered.

In other matters, the board approved a resolution to accept Millenium Pipeline’s expansion of its gas pipeline from 12 to 30 inches, based on information presented at previous hearings.

Discussion about various town-owned buildings resulted in the conclusion that the town needs its engineer to expedite reports previously requested by the board, particularly in respect to the town hall, which needs a new roof. A decision on the roof is pending on the engineer’s assessment of the building as a whole and the potentially high costs associated with replacing the roof.