Federice Reports on County Lawsuit During Conesville Meeting

By Chris English

CONESVILLE _ Town of Conesville Supervisor Bill Federice reported that Schoharie County has filed a lawsuit over tax breaks and incentives offered to businesses during the town board's Tuesday, May 14 meeting.

The suit claims that the state has violated the local municipality's home rule protections granted in the state constitution. Several other counties seem interested in adding their names to the lawsuit, Federice added.

Continuing his report to the board, the supervisor said grants are being made available for the "last mile" broadband project. While there is more than $30 million available, the program would require an additional $5 million from the county, Federice said. He went on to criticize the program because, among other reasons, Federice said one of its aims is to provide internet service to Amish families who would not use it.

The town's code enforcement officer position has been readvertised in the Mountain Eagle, it was noted at the meeting.

During public comment, resident Steve Young remarked that his property assessment had been unreasonably high and that town assessor Marie Stuber had helped to correct it. However, Young continued that he was nonetheless concerned with the methodology used to determine assessments. The remarks led to a brief back-and-forth between Young and Federice about the fairness of assessments in the state in general and if there was any solution. Young implied that there should be a march on Albany, which Federice quickly disagreed with.

Code Enforcement Officer Jim Kopp reported that two new permits, two certificates of occupancy, and one certificate of compliance were recently issued. In an update about the Couchman House, it was noted that bathroom fixtures have been purchased and a plumber has started work on updating the pipes and installing the new fixtures and sump pump.

A 5K run will be held on Nov. 30 and will run from the park along 990V and Bearkill Road, and turn around by the Buel Farm, and come back. Clark's Gym will do the timekeeping, with its services to be funded through local donations. Advertising spots are available to local businesses for $100. Long-sleeved t-shirts will be provided to all runners who have paid their registration fees. Promotions for the event will begin in June and July.