Fort Edward board approves bills, hears municipal updates and public concerns over county taxes

The Town Board of Fort Edward approved monthly bills totaling $231,788.41 and completed brief operational updates and public comment at its July 13 meeting.

By motion, the board approved Abstract #7 for $231,788.41; the motion passed "all ayes." The minutes list fund subtotals (General A, General B, Highway, Municipal, Special Lighting, Special Water and Special Water 2) and present the total paid. The itemized voucher ranges were submitted with the abstract as presented to the board; the meeting record does not include further line-item discussion.

Public works staff member Brian Brockway reported that blacktopping is complete, that he will submit paperwork for CHIPS funding once copies of checks are available, that the town pool is open, and that the garage’s heating and air-conditioning are down and will be examined by Brian McCarty because contractor C&L is too busy.

Dave Earsing said parade expenses for the year are paid and reported that the New York State Department of Transportation is requiring additional insurance this year; he told the board NYSDOT wanted the Town of Fort Edward named on the parade permit with the American Legion so that the permit name matched the entity listed on the insurance. The board agreed to be named on the permit.

During public comment resident Theresa Rose asked, "I heard the Washington County taxes are going up another 18%, is that true?" Supervisor Fisher replied, "At the county finance meeting the budget officer said it will increase again due to health insurance costs, retirement costs and union contracts." Rose asked, "What do we get for all these taxes?" and said she spoke with Assemblymember Carrie Woerner, who attributed high taxes to a lack of local business. Councilman Suprenant urged residents to "shop local" or order online "because the sales tax will come back to Washington County."

The meeting adjourned at 7:21 p.m.