By Mary A. Crisafulli
DELHI - The Delhi Town Board had much to discuss regarding the pool and bike rentals at their meeting on Feb. 10.
Bike Rentals
Supervisor Maya Boukai asked board members to consider a town-initiated bike rental system. Delaware County Economic Development has a grant available for up to $25,000. The company that runs the kayak rentals for the Delhi Village would manage two stations each equipped with 10 bikes for $24,000 annually. The self-serve system requires users to download an application to unlock the equipment. Helmets are not included. Users would have the option of leaving bikes at "remote docking" areas like Price Chopper or bringing them back to the stations. The town would control rental fees, which Boukai believes would not be enough to cover costs.
If awarded the county grant, Boukai said the town would need to seek other grant opportunities to cover the remainder of the three-year contract. If the town committed $5,000 for years two and three, over half the project would be funded, she explained. Boukai said the idea was sparked after research for an iceless ice skating rink proved financially infeasible at $150,000.
The rentals would add value to the town, Boukai concluded. She added that the initiative would be better served through the county, however, the town could move forward with a PILOT first. The bikes could be used for recreation or transportation, said Boukai.
"I would be one hundred percent on board if we had pathways," said Councilmember Josh Morgan. If the Catskill Scenic Trail expanded through Delhi, Hamden, and Walton, bike rentals would be great, he added. The former railroad has been rehabbed for recreation, expanding 26 miles from Bloomville down through Roxbury. Discussions of expansion in both directions are ongoing.
Councilmember Margaret Baldwin asked to hear presentations from various companies. It's worth exploring, she added.
Boukai will continue to research options and reach out to SUNY Delhi as a potential partner.
The Pool
The council has several ideas for improving the town pool, located at 215 Page Avenue, including pavilion installation, concession stand development, increased security, and beautification.
The board approved the purchase of two lifeguard umbrellas, 12 lounge chairs, four sitting chairs, and six tables at $2,300. Donations from Health Goto and the Delhi Community Fund will be used for the purchase.
Once the snow melts, 17 trees and various bushes are expected to be installed around the pool and park area. The Highway Department will dig holes for the trees to save town funds.
Morgan asked for a draw-up of current and projected plans to ensure pavilion designs don't interfere with other developments. Morgan is working on an application through SUNY Delhi. If approved, the colleges' architects and students will design and construct a pavilion. Installation is expected in the fall, reported Morgan.
Concession stand construction is expected to begin this winter, reported Councilmember Matt Krzyston. Construction includes the installation of doors, windows, and roof for $4,600. The project will be funded through a $2,500 grant and interest accrued through the pool reserve fund.
Roughly one month ago there was a break in at the concession stand building resulting in a police report and necessary cleanup. Boukai reported how pleased she was with the team's response. Within three hours the whole council knew what was going on and had tasks, said Boukai. The incident was a great example of how an emergency plan could be executed, she said. Boukai would like to develop an emergency plan for various incidents for officials to follow.
"We worked together very very well, was good communication," said Morgan.
Amy Randall was re-hired as head lifeguard at $20 per hour. The County Youth Bureau has offered to pay for two adult re-certifications for the coming season which Randall will utilize.
The town will advertise for a Certified Pool Operator (CPO), lifeguards, swimming instructors, and mowing services. The CPO from last season will not be returning.
Other Business
The board will explore virtual capabilities for meeting coverage. The adjustment will require policy modifications.
Morgan will review options to streamline code enforcement through online systems. The platforms would allow for online fee-paying, permit applications, issued violations, dog licensing, and more.
The State has requested an updated timeline for the Town Comprehensive Plan grant application. The new timeline starts in May rather than March.
Internal audits of the court, clerk, tax collector, and bookkeeper were accepted.
Highway Superintendent Daren Evans will work on plans for Delaware Engineering to design updates for undersized culverts after the County Soil and Water reported an inability to take the task.
Baldwin will research other options for town notifications including a Facebook page. The town currently utilizes Nextel, which requires individual sign-up.
The next regular town board meeting is scheduled Monday, Jan. 10 at 6 p.m.
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