PINE PLAINS — Town Highway Superintendent Heather Emerich said she wanted to “clear the air” at the Thursday, April 18, Town Board meeting regarding a discussion from the prior month’s meeting.
According to Emerich, the Town Board was discussing Fleet Fuel Cards. She had wanted the Highway Department, the Police Department and the Water Department to use the cards to purchase gas locally at either Stewart’s or Taylor Oil. The board was uncertain about the idea, citing security concerns and whether town employees would fill up their personal vehicles.
“It rubbed people the wrong way,” said Emerich, adding her crew took umbrage with the conversation — and so did she. “I stand up for my crew.”
Councilwoman Sarah Jones explained what she was thinking during the March meeting.
“I felt like I didn’t have enough information to make a decision like that,” she said. “Our job is to protect the town. Our current crew I have no question about. I want to know what security measures are in place but I need to know that before the board can commit [to the cards].”
Jones added that she “encourages communication so that it doesn’t feel like somebody is being pushed.”
“We were speaking abstractly to the notion of how secure is it,” chimed in Councilman Rory Chase. “We were not trying to impugn anyone. No one is suspecting them of stealing fuel.”
“I think the crew will be very happy to see you around the table” tonight, said Emerich.
According to the highway super, the state police use Fleet Fuel Cards, as do other “very large entities.”
“It is more convenient for employees,” acknowledged Jones.
“I don’t know if it’s a matter of convenience,” said Emerich. “For billing, maintenance, etc., and gasoline fees, if we could outsource and save money,… right off it sounds great, but there are a lot of things, like 24 hour [service],” to consider.
At that point, Councilman Don Bartles interjected.
“If they have a question about something I said that I don’t remember, I would gladly come down and talk to them,” he offered.
“Gotcha,” said Emerich, adding that wouldn’t be necessary. “But it clears the air.”
Emerich concluded by letting the board know she’ll do some more research on the fuel cards and find out the cost per gallon for fuel with the cards, and then report back at next month’s meeting.
Tiffany Lemelin, shelter manager, brushing Marsala upon arrival.Provided
Michael DeBarba, certified dog trainer working with Marsala.Jennifer Almquist
Marsala wins a heart.Jennifer Almquist
Sadie, center, a Carolina dog, plays with her friend Negra, a terrier mix. Bella Linda, the small poodle, has since been adopted.L. Tomaino
Wesley, a young, exuberant mix, is looking for an active home.L. Tomaino
Bonnie and Clyde, an affectionate terrier pair.L. Tomaino
Provided
