Agriculture, Buildings And Grounds Committee Meeting
Key discussions involved Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) updates, including planning for the 2026 Open Farm Day and soliciting volunteers for Agricultural Literacy Week. The committee also addressed concerns regarding the decline of ash trees due to the Emerald Ash Borer and potential state funding for invasive species management. Director of Public Facilities provided updates on Cook Park, including investigating online campground booking agencies, looking into laundry facilities contingent on Wi-Fi installation, acquiring surplus equipment from DPW (skid steer, dump truck, woodchipper, roller packer), and conducting a Wi-Fi site survey. For Preston Manor, a purchase of a compact tractor was discussed. The committee also handled administrative items for the County Office Building, such as replacing an air handler motor and repairing an IT unit, and referred a grant acceptance for repairs to the Finance Committee. Regarding the Upper Ravine Road Property, the committee discussed options for recommending the sale to the Chenango Greenway Conservancy versus the highest bidder, noting that any proceeds must be split with the Greater Norwich Foundation. Finally, the committee adopted changes to the East and West Park Policy to allow contained fires in East Park with prior permission, and referred a resolution to proclaim National FFA Week to the Board of Supervisors.