Town Land Survey Postponed - Short Term Rental Regulations Expected

By Mary A. Crisafulli

BOVINA - The Bovina Town Board postponed hiring a surveyor at the regular meeting on April 8. The discussion is expected to resume in May after acquiring at least one additional quote.

The council is seeking a survey of town property that houses the highway department salt shed and transfer station on New Road. The survey will provide the necessary information to determine logging potential. Logging the roughly 62-acre parcel was suggested in November following the rejection of a grant application to update the existing playground through the O'Connor Foundation. While the council is re-applying for the grant, they hope to get a better understanding of town assets by researching logging potential.

The council received two quotes for a land survey - $6,400 and $8,000. Councilmember Domonic Gullow asked the discussion be tabled to gain at least one more quote. "I do feel at some point it should be surveyed so we know where the lines are...," he said, adding, it would be good to have an idea of what the lumber is worth. After some research, Gullow found that on average lumber is worth $1,000 an acre. Gullow reached out to Delaware County Soil and Water to walk the property to determine its worth.

It is not an emergency to have the property surveyed, said Councilmember Marni Greenberg.

Later in the meeting during public comment, two residents spoke in concern regarding potential logging. The residents worry about the destruction of natural habitats, diminishing public walking and hiking paths, and erosion.

Councilmembers assured the public they are working to gather all the information necessary to make an informed decision that benefits taxpayers as a whole.

In another discussion, a member of the public asked the council to deliver clear expectations for the influx of short-term rental properties in the area. The individual claims the majority of the rentals are operated by individuals who are not full-time residents.

Greenberg explained that short-term rental regulations have been discussed at length by the Comprehensive Plan Committee tasked with updating the town's plan. A final draft is currently in review by committee members and includes regulations for such rentals, she said. The council is expected to review the finalized plan in the coming months for possible adoption.

In other business

The council is seeking mowing services for the five town-owned cemeteries. Mowing is required once a month.

The broken pillar at the town park was mended. The fence is still in need of repair.

The transfer station has turned away several individuals attempting to exceed the 55-gallon limit for C&D (construction debris) disposal.

The Bovina 5K is scheduled for Saturday, July 26 at 9 a.m. with the town picnic to follow. All proceeds are to be donated to the Playground revitalization initiative.

The council paid bills including general $39,861, water $2,325.18, septic $3,988.59, and highway $9,217.52. The general bill was high due to the annual insurance payment, reported Supervisor Tina Molè. No lighting bill was received this month - council members are seeking answers.

The next regular town board meeting is scheduled Tuesday, May 13 at 6 p.m.