Washington Town Board: Green Briar, roads and EMS discussed

WASHINGTON — Town Supervisor Gary Ciferri opened the meeting at 7:05 p.m. on Thursday, May 9, and the first order of business pertained to the Green Briar Adult Home, which has had some controversy with its residents causing trouble in the community. Ciferri reported that Green Briar owner Eileen Berenyi was asked to attend a Town Board meeting to address reported issues, possibly in July or August of this year. 

Resident Joan LaCasse, proprietor of Blue Barn B ‘n B, asked that residents be notified in a timely manner, at least two weeks prior, so that all who wish to participate can put it on their schedule and formulate questions to be presented at that time. Town Clerk Mary Alex and Ciferri agreed.

Highway Superintendent Joe Spagnola gave a report, including work that had been done at  the South Road culvert, to repair a collapsed wall and other problems. Spagnola had a representative from Dutchess County look at the problem, but was told that it is a bigger job than the county can handle. Spagnola said the department will take care of it but noted he has to consider future repairs that might be needed in the town, and where to get funding. He mentioned Consolidated Highway Improvements Projects (CHIPs) funding, and its possible use for the South Road project. 

Alex reported that tax payment reminder letters are being sent out to property owners of unpaid parcels. The final date for collection is Friday, May 31. 

Councilman Steve Turletes reported on the Recreation Department, He told the board that Recreation Director Chelsea Edson and Assistant Director Kelly Cassinelli have both been certified in CPR and First Aid, at the board’s request. 

Turletes also reported that work is being done at the Town Park and pool, which is in the midst of getting ready for the summer months and summer camp. 

For two consecutive years, inclement weather forced the cancellation of the Annual Easter Egg Hunt in the Tribute Gardens. The recreation team is thinking about scheduling it a week earlier next year, leaving the Saturday before Easter as a rain date.

The senior picnic will take place at noon on Monday, June 10, at noon, at the Town Park. The senior trip to Lake George, which takes place in July, is already fully booked with 85 residents registered.

Councilman Al DeBonis reported on the Planning and Zoning boards. The Evangelic Free Church in Clinton Corners has applied to the board for permits; on Butts Hollow Road there is a request for permission to renovate a pool house. The request also needs approval from the Department of Health because it is an agriculture parcel. Roughly 125 acres are being sold at Shunpike Dairy; 66 acres are being kept and will continue at as farm land.

During public comment, resident Howard Schuman asked that attention be paid, and action taken, to keep the Millbrook Rescue Squad intact in the face of the 24/7 emergency medical services (EMS) being instituted. The board agreed with keeping the Rescue Squad viable, and said what is needed are incentives for younger people to be recruited to help current members as they age and leave.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m. The next meeting will be on Thursday, June 13, at 7 p.m. at Town Hall.