TOWN OF WATERTOWN
Regular Meeting
Municipal Building
May 8, 2025
Members Present: Joel R. Bartlett, Supervisor
David D. Prosser, Councilman
Joanne McClusky, Councilwoman
Michael Perkins, Councilman
Robert Slye, Councilman
Members Absent:
Supervisor Bartlett opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a roll call of members present at 7:00 pm. Attorney Harrienger was also present.
MOTION #58-2025
Supervisor Bartlett moved to adopt the minutes from the April 13, 2025 Regular Town Board Meeting; Councilman Prosser seconded.
Ayes All
Supervisor Bartlett introduced Mr. Pat Scordo to give an update on the Northeast Water District and the proposed Lettiere Tract Water System.
Northeast Water District No. 7
• Design Plans 95% complete; (pending regulatory agency review).
• Soil Borings/Rock Probes will be complete week of May 12th.
• Williams Water Pumping Station – landowner purchase price requested for sale of 19,000 SF 0.44 acre) parcel for Town Water Pumping Station. Working with Town Attorney on Purchase Contract. Land Surveyors preparing a Preliminary Subdivision Plan. They will attend Town Planning Board meeting in June for Subdivision and Site Plan. Refer to attached plan. (Note: Landowner also requested perpetual free water – however Town Attorney stated that is not an action the Town is able to do.)
• Work with Municipal Solutions to have a Public Information session regarding CDBG individual homeowner funding for water laterals.
• Planning to start the water main easement process after initial review is completed by regulatory agencies.
Lettiere/Southside Water
Mr. Scordo referred to Attorney Harrienger on this project.
Attorney Harrienger responded:
Water District 7 – Purchase Agreement
• Current Status: Draft agreement and draft resolution for the possible purchase of the Williams property.
• Pending Tasks: Ensuring accurate parcel identification (since it’s part of an existing parcel).
• Purchase Price: Placeholder set; final number is a board decision.
Lettiere Tract & District Formation
• Draft Order: In review; nothing will be determined at tonight’s meeting.
Next Steps:
• Public hearing could be set at the June meeting and scheduled for July.
• Legal Sufficiency: Evaluated, but final determination reserved for July resolution.
Petition Options:
• Extend water service down Ives Street Road.
• Limit to current users in Lettiere Tract only.
Decision Path (proposed multi-resolution framework):
1. Legal sufficiency of petition.
2. Approval of boundaries as proposed.
3. Approval of amended boundaries (e.g., only Lettiere Tract).
4. Decision on whether to move forward at all.
Financial Considerations
• Two Cost Scenarios:
o Full Extension: ~$1.23 million.
o Lettiere Only: ~$500,000.00
• Comptroller’s Concerns:
o Special assessments may be viable.
o Payment structuring over time is a concern (e.g., number of parcels vs. cost).
• Bonding Issue:
o Existing infrastructure is beyond useful life – can’t bond under local finance law.
o Typical solution: System owner gifts system to town – town abandons – town bonds for new system.
• Emergency Risk: If the old system fails post-district formation, the town bears cost of emergency repairs or replacements.
Summary of Discussion – Plan B
1. Feasibility & Precedent:
o The concept (Plan B) potentially buying a business with infrastructure attached – has precedent in New York State.
o There are examples of similar transfers where the Public Service Commission (PSC) has provided guidance or oversight.
2. Financing Questions:
o Financing could be structured as a business acquisition, encompassing infrastructure, easements, and assets.
o This method may streamline the transfer and simplify long-term operational control.
3. Seeking Guidance:
o The Comptroller’s Office recommends contacting the PSC for input and procedural precedent.
o Attorney Harrienger is seeking the board’s authorization and guidance before proceeding.
4. Pending Communication:
o Still awaiting a response from Municipal Solutions, which is already under contract.
o Once that information is received, it will be forwarded to the board for review.
5. Cost Comparisons:
o Two options are being considered:
Option A: Expansion project (including Ives Street Road) estimated at $1.23M–$1.71M.
Option B: More limited service to existing users, estimated purchase price of $500,000.
o The broader expansion includes more homes but would increase total cost and possibly affect loan repayment terms.
o
6. Petition Update:
o Sufficient petitions have been submitted (in terms of both signatures and assessed value) to proceed with district formation, per comptroller standards.
o Some petitions were voided, but the overall threshold remains met.
7. Next Steps:
o Wait for Municipal Solutions’ response.
o Possibly contact PSC if the board agrees.
o Continue comparing financial implications of both expansion and limited-scope plans.
Mike Altieri, BCA update on projects:
PROJECTS IN CONSTRUCTION
NYS Rte. 3 Water District No. 1 and NSY Rte. 12F Sewer District No. 2 Extension
Current Construction Budget: $ 3,224,585.00
Current Change Orders (Included in Above): $ 442,854.00
Pending Change Orders: None Current
Estimated Completion Date: December 2025 (anticipated)
Project Status – Awaiting final determination of Industrial Park Lift station PLC issues and final DEC review of revised connection with the City of Watertown.
NYS Route 12F Watermain Installation
Original Construction Budget: $ 660,816.00
Original Contract Price: $ 603,069.90
Final Construction Budget: $ 611,254,90
Project Status – Substantially complete, final cleanup and landscaped sign wall at Kinney’s Home Care has been started. As-builts of the finished system are complete.
PROJECTS IN DESIGN
Water District No. 4 Extension (Northland Estates/Pine Meadows)
Construction Budget: $ 7,250,000.00
Administrative and Technical Costs: $ 1,709,500.00
Contingency: $ 1,040,500.00 (around 10%)
Total Project Cost: $ 10,000,000.00
Total Grant Funding (WIIA and CDBG): $ 6,250,000.00
Anticipated Cost per EDU: $ 600/EDU (1/3 debt service, 2/3 water purchase from City)
Projected Bidding Date: June 2025
Projected Construction Completion Date: December 2025
Project Update – Comments have been received from NYS DOH and the Bureau of Health. Anticipating a quick turnaround of these comments within the next week or so. Several water quality issues have been reported by residents over the last few months at Northland Estates and Pine Meadows.
Supervisor Bartlett inquired including more property into the district along US Rte. 11.
Sewer District #1
Total Project Cost: $ 2,643,000.00 (WWTF Replacement)
$ 4,491,00.00 (Stormwater Improvements)
Project Funding Awarded: NYS EFC WIIA – $ 444,500.00 (WWTF)
NYS DEC WQIP – $ 1,000,000.00 (WWTF)
Project Update Several funding programs have opened up recently for the stormwater improvements project phase, including from FEMA and GIGP. The GIGP application was submitted on April 11, 2025 with a request of $1,000,000. The FEMA application was submitted on May 1st for $2,887,000. Additional grant opportunities forthcoming with the CFA and NYS EFC.
The project team met onsite on April 23rd with NYS DEC to discuss the final details of the piloting and preliminary project scoping. Comments are being addressed on the engineering report based upon additional feedback from this visit.
Sewer District No. 1 Revised Schedule (WWTF Project Phase):
Begin Piloting Program: August 2025
End Piloting Program (Tentative): December 2025
Design Start: March 2025
Design Complete: January 2025
NYS DEC Review and Approval: April 2025
Begin Construction: June 2026
Construct Disinfection Units: June 2026
Complete Construction and Begin Operation: September 2027
Sewer District 4, 5 and 6 I&I Study
This study investigated the occurrence of inflow and infiltration (I&I) in the Town’s sewer system serving Districts 4, 5 and 6. Several structures were identified as needing repair and/ or replacement. The total maximum inflow into the system is estimated at 101 GPM. The final I&I study has been submitted to the City in accordance with the agreement. BCA submitted for an Engineering Planning Grant with EFC in April for future study of upgrades for these sewer districts.
Average Water Usage: 79,304 GPD (2024)
Maximum Metered Sewer Flow: 200,000 GPD (May to November 2024)
Total Repair Cost: $ 164,000.00
Total Estimated Savings Per Year: $ 15,000/Year
Estimated Sewer Credits to the Town (1:3 rule): 48,500 GPD
Expanded Summary with Engineering Grant and expanding Sewer Districts 4, 5 & 6 Planning to Lettiere Tract Station
1. Engineering Study Grant Submitted:
o A grant application was submitted last month for a preliminary engineering report focused on potential sewer system upgrades or integration.
o This helps get the project on the funding agency’s radar early.
o If awarded, the grant covers the cost of the study and strengthens future funding applications.
2. Strategic Importance of the Engineering Study:
o Enables the town to position itself competitively for future capital improvement grants.
o Shows forethought and readiness, increasing the chance of support once more substantial infrastructure grants become available.
o Builds off income survey data that supports the area’s eligibility and need.
3. Sewer Expansion Possibilities:
o Proposal: Pump wastewater from Northland/Pine Meadows into the town’s existing system with minor upgrades.
o Keeps those developments substantially private unless significant state/federal funds become available.
o This approach mirrors the recent water project strategy: use external users and grant leverage to reduce costs across the board.
4. Preliminary Feedback:
o Conversations with EFC (Environmental Facilities Corporation?) suggest the plan is sound.
o EFC doesn’t want to “map” the town’s sewer future, but is open to providing guidance.
o No objections were raised to the strategy thus far.
5. Grant Timing & State Budget:
o Expect responses in the fall, roughly a month after the state budget is finalized (likely finalized now or very soon).
o Other grant opportunities are pending and will be released soon after that.
The floor was opened for public comments.
Tom Boxberger, Town of Watertown Planning Board addressed the Board.
1. Planning Package with Tug Hill Commission:
o The Planning Board has been working with the Tug Hill Commission for several months on zoning updates.
o A summary sheet has been provided to make review easier.
2. Zone Change Recommendations – Manufacturing District Expansion:
o At the Town Board’s request, the Planning Board reviewed possible expansions of the Manufacturing District to support potential development (e.g., business/industrial growth).
o No spot zoning – expansions are contiguous with existing zones.
o Two proposed expansion areas:
To include a single parcel on Massey Street Road
To include properties south of Massey Street Road to the city limits
3. Next Steps:
o Planning Board is submitting these proposals and recommendations to the Town Board for formal review and action.
Considerations for the Town Board:
• Whether to adopt the revised definitions and local law updates as presented.
• Evaluate the potential impact (positive or negative) of the proposed zone change.
Discussion took place. It was the determination of the Board to include said parcel south of Massey Street Road to the city limit in the proposed zone change from Residental-1 to a Manufacturing Zone.
MOTION #59-2025
TOWN OF WATERTOWN
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
LOCAL LAW #2 OF 2025
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that Local Law No. 2 of 2025 has been introduced before the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, Jefferson County, New York. This Local Law proposes a zone change from Residential 1 (R-1) to Manufacturing (M) on the south side of Massey Street Road, extending to the City of Watertown line.
The zone change affects the following parcels:
• A portion of Tax Map Parcel 82.20-1-2.1
• Parcels 82.20-1-4, 82.20-1-2.3, 82.20-1-17.3, 82.20-1-17.2, 82.20-1-17.1, 82.20-1-13, 82.20-1-14.1, and 82.20-1-14.2
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Supervisor Bartlett moved to hold a public hearing regarding this proposed zoning change. The hearing is scheduled for Thursday, June 12, 2025 at 7:00 PM at the Town of Watertown Municipal Building, 22867 County Route 67, Watertown, NY 13601. All persons interested in the proposed legislation will be given an opportunity to be heard at that time. Motion seconded by Councilman Prosser.
Ayes All
MOTION #60-2025
TOWN OF WATERTOWN
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
LOCAL LAW #3 OF 2025
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that Local Law No. 3 of 2025 has been introduced before the Town Board of the Town of Watertown, Jefferson County, New York. This Local Law proposes zoning updates to the Town Code of the Town of Watertown.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Supervisor Bartlett has moved to hold a public hearing to consider the proposed zoning updates. The hearing is scheduled for Thursday, June 12, 2025 at 7:00 PM at the Town of Watertown Municipal Building, 22867 County Route 67, Watertown, NY 13601. All persons interested in the proposed legislation will be given an opportunity to be heard at that time. Motion seconded by Councilman Prosser.
Ayes All
No one else wished to speak; Supervisor Bartlett closed the floor to the public.
Supervisor Bartlett took a moment to express his gratitude to Highway Superintendent Clement and the Public Works Department for their recent cleanup efforts in the Lettiere Tract area. The residents in the area expressed their appreciation for the timely and thorough removal of sand from the roads.
He noted that the Town is in the process of transitioning from sand to clear salt for winter road treatment. This shift is expected to reduce the need for extensive spring cleanup, thereby saving time, labor, and resources.
Highway Superintendent Clement extended a thank you to the Town Board for their support in acquiring new equipment, specifically a new tractor, which was received approximately three weeks ago. The equipment has already been put to work effectively, particularly in maintaining overgrown areas.
Town Clerk’s Correspondence – Winery Event Permit Request
The Town Clerk reported receiving a request from Ashley Lynn Winery, which holds events at the Salmon Run Mall. Due to New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) regulations, this location has exceeded the 4 one day beer and wine permits allowed per year. They are requesting a letter of municipal support (i.e., “no objection”) to exceed the annual permit limit for two event dates of May 9-11, 2025 and May 15-17, 2025. Due to short notice, the first event may be missed, but the winery still seeks support for the second event.
MOTION #61-2025
Supervisor Bartlett offered a motion to submit a letter of no objection from the Town Board on official town letterhead in support of Ashley Lynn Winery’s request to the New York State Liquor Authority, allowing an exception to the current four one-day permit limit, seconded by Councilman Prosser.
Ayes All
Supervisor Bartlett agreed to prepare the letter first thing the following morning and submit it via email to the appropriate state contact.
Supervisor Bartlett accepted the Town Clerk’s Report
MOTIONS/RESOLUTIONS
MOTION #62-2025
WHEREAS, Advocate Drum is an organization that advocates and promotes Fort Drum and the Forts contribution to the North Country and the Nation and promotes the Fort on a national level for funding, benefiting the enlisted and civilian work force and assisting with families moving into civilian life upon military retirement; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Watertown has been a contributor and member of the association for several years recognizing the benefits provided by the organization; and
WHEREAS, a request for the 2025 membership dues has been submitted by the organization for payment.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED; the Supervisor is hereby authorized to issue payment of $ 2,500.00 to the organization representing the Town’s membership in the organization for the Year 2025.
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was made by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Councilmember Prosser and upon a roll call vote of the Board was duly adopted as follows:
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins yes
Councilman Slye yes
MOTION #63-2025
WHEREAS, John Deal has resigned from the Board of Assessment Review, creating a vacancy; and
WHEREAS, Michael Colello, residing at 19940 County Route 65, has expressed interest in serving on the Board;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Michael Colello is hereby appointed to the Board of Assessment Review to fill the unexpired term of John Deal, commencing May 8, 2025, and ending September 30, 2025.
A motion to adopt the foregoing resolution was made by Supervisor Bartlett and seconded by Councilmember Prosser and upon a roll call vote of the Board was duly adopted as follows:
Supervisor Bartlett yes
Councilman Prosser yes
Councilwoman McClusky yes
Councilman Perkins yes
Councilman Slye yes
Code Enforcement Report – Unsafe Structure at 25792/816 Ridge Road
The board reviewed a report from Dave Ross, Town Code Enforcement Officer, of a violation and accompanying photographs documenting the condition of the property located at 25792/816 Ridge Road, owned by Victoria Majo.
Findings:
• The house is partially collapsed and deemed structurally unstable.
• The main structure and accessory buildings are unsecured, posing a serious safety hazard to anyone who might enter the premises.
• The property is littered with debris.
• Multiple attempts to contact the property owner and request voluntary action (repair or demolition, debris removal) have gone unanswered.
Mr. Ross formally recommends that the Town Board initiate proceedings under the Town’s Unsafe Structure Ordinance to address the dangerous condition of the property.
Attorney Harreninger advised Board Action:
• Review the evidence submitted (violation notice, photos).
• Authorize commencement of legal or administrative proceedings under the unsafe structure provisions of the local code.
• Notify the property owner officially of impending action if not remedied by a set deadline.
It is believed that Victoria Majo, the listed property owner, is deceased. Although her daughter paid property taxes in the previous year, no payment has been made for the current year. There is no known forwarding address for the family or next of kin. As a result, all mailed code violation notices are being returned as undeliverable. The Town currently lacks a viable method of direct contact with a responsible party.
Possible Option Moving Forward:
One option under consideration is to initiate unsafe structure proceedings under the Town Code, which may allow the Town to:
• Post notice directly on the structure as a public declaration of violation,
• Proceed through legal channels to address the safety hazard,
• Ultimately seek abatement or demolition, with costs potentially levied against the Town/County taxes.
MOTION #64-2025
Supervisor Bartlett offered a motion to authorize BCA Associates to conduct assessment evaluation report of safety for property located at 25792/816 Ridge Road, Watertown, NY owned by Victoria Majo. Motion seconded by Councilman Prosser.
Ayes All
MOTION #65-2025
Supervisor Bartlett moved to pay the following abstracts contingent upon a positive review of the bills being audited.
Utilities paid prior to the meeting
General Vouchers # 80 to 82 Total $ 7,228.05
Highway Vouchers # 80 to 80 Total $ 20,609.85
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 48 to 49 Total $ 7,865.68
Vouchers approved for monthly meeting
General Vouchers # 83 to 97 Total $ 20,837.04
Highway Vouchers # 81 to 96 Total $ 10,665.26
Spec. Dist. Vchrs. # 50 to 61 Total $ 235,871.33
Councilmember Prosser seconded the motion.
Ayes All
Supervisor Bartlett inquired of the need to have Pomerville pump out the sewer stations each month. Mike Altieri, BCA will inquire with Angel French, the town sewer coordinator if there is something that could be done to decrease the need for this service so often.
Contractor Status and Labor Compliance – Electrician & WWTP Operator
• The electrician, a long-time independent contractor with deep knowledge of Town infrastructure and former head electrician for the City, continues to assist the Town, including recent streetlight conversions to LED along NYS Rte 3.
o Update: All new light heads have been installed — project is complete.
o Supervisor and Board expressed appreciation for the successful completion.
• Contractor Status Issue:
o The electrician does not have employees and is classified as an independent contractor.
o Due to new New York State labor law requirements, municipalities must ensure that contractors carry workers’ compensation coverage, even when they are sole proprietors with no employees.
o The electrician has attempted — unsuccessfully — to complete the required online registration forms for this purpose, without resolution.
o The Town is exploring alternate pathways or exemptions to help facilitate compliance without violating labor regulations.
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Update:
o Angel French has been acting as the Town’s Wast Treatment Plant Operator for the town sewer districts.
o Work is ongoing to finalize her contractor paperwork, with the goal of presenting a formal agreement to the Board for approval next month.
o Both individuals are to be issued 1099s annually for tax reporting.
Attorney Harrenger is working on the necessary paperwork for these Independent Contractors Agreements.
MOTION #66-2025
Councilman Prosser moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:31 pm, seconded by Supervisor Bartlett.
Ayes All
_____________________________
Pamela D. Desormo, Town Clerk