New board grapples with tax cap and squad coverage

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Village of Owego board began with a short commentary from Roger Luther, of the Preservation Association of the Southern Tier, about Owego losing status due to the abolishment of the Owego Historic Preservation Commission, and what part of the cost will be to the area.  

During the public comment session on Monday, Luther stated, “For two decades, the Owego Historic Preservation Commission has served as an invaluable resource not just for property owners, but for the entire community – providing information, guidance and options, with consistency, and in compliance with accepted standards.”

He added, “As a result, the village was designated as a Certified Local Government, eligible to receive a variety of services and grants from the State Historic Preservation Office.” 

What this means, he added, is that the village no longer qualifies for ongoing technical and legal advice, training and related grants. 

“In addition,” stated Luther, “the village can no longer participate in the process of listing properties on the National Register of Historic Places.” 

Other agenda items included a Special Use Permit by the American Legion to host a bike night event, sidewalk replacement of areas needing work, the search for land for the new DPW building, and a new crosswalk on Park Street.  

Regarding the Legion’s request for a Special Use Permit, the board stated that it was a zoning issue, and it was out of their control. Since that time, other businesses have grabbed the opportunity, and plan to host bike night events at their venues. At the time of this reporting, there is no further status regarding the American Legion’s ongoing request, but we do know that its members are seeking the necessary permits.

The property tax cap was also on the agenda. Fran VanHousen made a motion to override the tax cap, but the vote failed so there will be no public hearing. 

A presentation at Monday’s meeting was also given by Owego Fire Chief Dan Gavin, and focused on finding the best solution for future funding of Owego’s emergency squad.  

Instead of relying heavily on an endowment, known as the Sweet Fund, which is currently being spent down, Chief Gavin recommended that the squad become a non-profit 501(c)(3) that could bill insurance for their services.  

The risks, according to Gavin, include liability, a loss of volunteers and donations, and the requirement for administrative staff and the cost of facilities. 

The upside, Gavin added, would include potential for non-emergency transport revenue and the potential for squad sustainability.

Department of Public Works Superintendent Jeff Soules also talked about sidewalk repairs, stating that the sidewalk replacement is needed due to tree roots. He would like to get bids per square foot for the sidewalks and per linear foot for the curbs. As the cost threshold is under $20,000, no Village Board motion is needed.

Soules also reported that the Park Street crosswalk is necessary due to a New York State requirement. No village funds will be used and it will be completed in time for the Strawberry Festival, planned for June 15 and 16 in Owego. 

The next Owego Village Board Meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 1, at 7 p.m. at 20 Elm St.