Town of Owego

The board approved the sale of a Western plow and reviewed departmental reports, including updates on Interstate 86 closures and an IRS payment. Public comments addressed concerns regarding property maintenance, nuisance issues, and park improvements. Financial abstracts were approved. The board also passed resolutions to approve a collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Union Local 317, an employee animal bite procedure, a pay increase for the Dog Control Officer, and a skilled services agreement with Soil and Water.

The board meeting included reports from various department heads regarding ongoing municipal projects, such as grievance day proceedings, the publication of a local history book, and construction updates on Interstate 86. The board also reviewed and approved significant financial abstracts and paving agreements for multiple town roads. Additionally, the board approved a proclamation for A New Hope Center's 40th anniversary, appointed new members to the Board of Assessment Review, and authorized the hiring of two full-time employees for the Highway Department.

The board considered Appeal No. 2156, a request for an area variance for a residential shed. The applicant provided testimony regarding the need for a two-foot side yard variance due to the existing placement of a concrete pad near the property boundary. The board reviewed the application, conducted a discussion on the specifics of the shed construction and location, and subsequently voted to grant the requested area variance.

The board addressed several business items including the sale of surplus vehicles, specifically a Ford dump truck and a Ford F-150. A public hearing was held regarding amendments to the Town Code concerning solar farm regulations, resulting in the adoption of a new local law. Department reports were provided, covering utility well cleaning, park facility repairs, and various zoning and administrative updates. Financial actions included the approval of project abstracts and the adoption of a 2026 substance abuse policy. Furthermore, the board authorized several personnel actions for the Highway Department, approved a professional services agreement for drug and alcohol testing, and declared an emergency for culvert pipe repairs on Cafferty Lane to be completed by an outside contractor.

The board considered Appeal No. 2161 regarding a request for an area variance for a swimming pool located at 3 Newberry Drive. The applicant sought a 2.2ft variance due to the pool being positioned closer to the property line than permitted. The board held a public hearing, discussed the circumstances surrounding the installation, and reviewed plans for a proposed pool deck that must remain in zoning compliance. Following these deliberations, the board voted to grant the request for an area variance.