4th Annual Dance Festival - Free Classes & Performance

By Alexis Pencar

SHARON SPRINGS — The Sharon Springs Dance Festival is back for their 4th year, inviting you to join a fun full day of “rhythm, culture, and creativity” next Saturday, May 3, 2025. This free event hosted at the Sharon Springs Central School is presented by Klinkhart Hall Arts Center, with the support of grants for the arts. This exciting day of activity features a wide range of free dance & drum classes—plus “an electrifying evening performance by Gballoi Drumming and Dance, a world-renowned ensemble from Accra, Ghana”.

In an exclusive interview with Betty Gavin-Singer, Chairperson of the Programming Committee and Second Vice President of Klinkhart Hall, I was able to learn more about how the Dance Festival started and what makes it all so special. 

“I was approached by Klinkhart to join their Board as the ‘dance liaison’ back in 2016” said Gavin-Singer, “and dancers are always looking for places to perform” giving a good reason to get involved in reviving an age-old theater. “Sharon Springs Shakespeare in The Park Festival in 2017 was the first event that spurred the festivals we have today,” referencing the Dance Festival and the wonderful Summer Concert Series in the Park along with the Sharon Springs Poetry Festival.

“The first year of the Dance Festival we offered a more modern style and theme, then the following year we had hip hop with Ephrat Asherie Dance, which was so well received we had them back a second year.” For this fourth year, the full Saturday of classes and evening performance are not the only things offered Gavin-Singer mentioned, “the Friday before, Gballoi Drumming and Dance will have a school assembly program for SSCS in two groups, K-5 and 6-12, allowing students to experience this genre first hand!”  

There is no admission for any of the classes or performances, being made possible by grants for the arts. “Come for one or two classes, or attend the whole day, but don’t forget the big performance at 7 PM!” wrapped up Gavin-Singer.

Schedule: The Sharon Springs Dance Festival starts at 10:00 AM on 5/3 with movement experiences for all ages and abilities. “Adults can tap into musicality with Jazz Dance, explore expressive motion in Belly Dance, or unwind during an end-of-day Stretch Class. Kids will love the chance to groove in Hip Hop or experience rhythm and tradition in a West African Dance class led by Master Drummer Zorkie Nelson himself. Community drum and dance classes in the afternoon invite participants of all ages to learn the basics of Ghanaian rhythm and movement—no experience required, just an open heart and willingness to try something new.”

At 7:00 PM, the full day wraps up with an evening performance by Gballoi Drumming and Dance. Founded and led by Master Drummer Zorkie Nelson, this group is “a powerful expression of West African culture, combining intricate rhythms, dynamic movement, call-and-response vocals, and storytelling through traditional and ceremonial dances of the Ga, Ewe, and other Ghanaian peoples.” Using traditional hand-carved instruments like the kpanlogo and djembe, Gballoi brings a sound “that’s impossible to ignore”. With decades of international experience—including tours with Yacub Addy and collaborations with the Wynton Marsalis Orchestra—”this ensemble doesn’t just perform; they connect, reminding us of the shared rhythms that bind people across generations and cultures.”

For more information on this exciting upcoming event, please visit KlinkhartHall.com/Dance or follow Klinkhart Hall Arts Center on social media @klinkharthall. All dance classes and the evening performance are free and open to the public. 

Klinkhart Hall is a nonprofit performing arts center located in Sharon Springs, NY. Klinkhart Hall hosts and produces high quality programs in the performing, visual and other arts and offers cultural, civic and educational programming to promote its philosophy of inclusion and diversity; it will serve as an example of how historic preservation efforts can contribute to the revitalization of communities. If you are looking to get involved in supporting your local arts, Klinkhart Hall is always looking for volunteers and new Board Members.

 

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Earth Day Marks Signing of New - SUNY Oneonta-SUNY Cobleskill Lake Management Partnership

COOPERSTOWN – On Earth Day, SUNY Oneonta and SUNY Cobleskill announced a collaborative agreement providing qualified SUNY Cobleskill students the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree in fisheries science while simultaneously taking classes during their senior year at the SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station to complete their master’s degree in lake management – accelerating dual degree completion in five years, rather than six.

The Biological Field Station is a facility of SUNY Oneonta consisting of 2,600 acres with 12 major buildings that house laboratories, classrooms, conference spaces, offices and equipment for research support. The Biological Field Station supports a variety of SUNY Oneonta programs including the Biology Department Lake Management graduate program, which trains students to become effective water resource management professionals. This innovative program blends scientific training in aquatic biology, limnology and quantitative skills with professional training in project design, management, and reporting in a real-life setting, working with lake stakeholders directly or with established lake management professionals.

“Earth Day is an apropos time to celebrate the SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station – it is unique point of pride for our campus.  The station and its scientists are an amazing resource for our students and the broader community.  The lessons we learn from Otsego Lake impact the health of lakes across New York and beyond,” said Dr. Alberto Cardelle, President of SUNY Oneonta. “We are excited about how this partnership will give access to SUNY Cobleskill undergraduates as they advance their studies with SUNY Oneonta’s lake management program.”

"This partnership between SUNY Cobleskill and SUNY Oneonta represents the convergence of student aspiration and societal need. In creating pathways from undergraduate research to graduate specialization, we're preparing the next generation of environmental stewards who will protect our vital water resources,” said Dr. Marion Terenzio, President of SUNY Cobleskill. “Our students will move between campuses with purpose, carrying forward our shared commitment to environmental science and management at a time when our natural resources face growing challenges. This Earth Day, we celebrate what higher education can accomplish when we combine our strengths in service of both student mobility and ecological sustainability."

“The agreement we are celebrating today is a product of a partnership at the field station between SUNY Oneonta and SUNY Cobleskill that has been in place for decades, said Dr. Florian Reyda, Director, SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station and Rufus J. Thayer Otsego Lake Research Chair. “Faculty and students from both institutions have collaborated on a variety of projects over the years. The complementary strengths of biologists from both institutions have enabled us to offer opportunities that have opened many doors for our students. These students have gone on to serve the region and the country by working in the fields of conservation biology, resource management, and a variety of other fields in the sciences.”

"This partnership exemplifies what makes our two schools exceptional, that's our ability to collaborate in ways that benefit students while addressing critical environmental challenges," said Mark Cornwell, Associate Professor of Fisheries and Aquaculture at SUNY Cobleskill. "Our hands-on, experiential approach to education aligns perfectly with SUNY Oneonta's field-based training model, creating pathways for students to seamlessly transition from undergraduate studies to master's programs and then to the job field."

 

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IMLS Terminates Federal Grant for Conservation of Iroquois Museum Artifacts

HOWES CAVE — The Iroquois Museum has been notified that the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has terminated a previously awarded federal grant, citing that the project “no longer serves the interest of the United States.” The grant was part of a Save America’s Treasures collection award totaling $269,038, administered by the Greater Hudson Heritage Network (GHHN), with matching nonfederal funds bringing the total project cost to $538,398.

The competitive grant was intended to conserve 35 historically significant objects from 10 small and mid-size museums across New York State. The Iroquois Museum had been selected to receive a portion of the funds to restore two important works from its collection of contemporary Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) art.

“The Museum is deeply disappointed by the grant’s revocation and the rationale provided. The conservation of these artworks is critical to making them accessible for public exhibition and education. Thousands of visitors from across the country and around the world would have benefited from experiencing these works firsthand,” said Museum Director Steph Shultes. 

The two pieces slated for conservation are ceramic sculptures by the late Tammy Tarbell (1950–2021), a distinguished Mohawk artist of the Turtle Clan. Tarbell’s career spanned decades, and her work powerfully reflects the stories, traditions, and enduring spirit of the Haudenosaunee people. Her art has played a crucial role in redefining Mohawk artistic traditions and affirming cultural identity.

The sculptures, “Moon Phase” (1999) and “Untitled -91:68” (1990), exemplify Tarbell’s distinctive use of clay, a medium long embraced by Haudenosaunee artists for more than 3,000 years. “Moon Phase” draws on oral tradition where the moon holds cultural significance, while “Untitled -91:68” incorporates deerskin thongs and a pit-fired finish. In Kanien’kéha (Mohawk language), the word for clay pot evokes the image of a woman’s body—graceful and life-giving—mirroring the shapes captured in Tarbell’s work.

“Despite this setback, the Iroquois Museum remains steadfast in its mission to foster greater understanding of Iroquois culture through the lens of Iroquois art. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our members, donors, and community for their continued support,” Shultes said.

 

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Landis Signature Plant Sale May 16

ESPERANCE — The Landis Signature Spring Plant, Book, and Bake sale will soon be here. Join us from 4:00 to 6:00 PM on Friday, May 16 for the members-only Pick of the Pots Sale (POPS). The sale continues from 10 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday, May 17 & 18 on Lape Road in Esperance.

Be on the lookout for more information in another email, on our website, and on Facebook.

We hope to see you there!

 

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Process For Bridge Replacement In Sharon Slowed Down

By Chris English

SCHOHARIE COUNTY — The process for replacing the Engleville Road Bridge over West Creek in the Town of Sharon has stalled a little because of logistics involved in Schoharie County acquiring property needed for the replacement.

A public hearing scheduled for the Friday, April 18 meeting of the county Board of Supervisors was tabled until the next BOS meeting on May 16. The hearing was to consider the need for acquiring a fee title/easement for land at 263 Engleville Road "owned now or formerly by the Estate of Ray Aker Jr."

"There is no proposed alternate location for the project," a resolution related to the matter stated.

At the April 18 meeting, a county official indicated at least one person with a present ownership interest in the property was not being cooperative with the county's effort to acquire the land for the bridge replacement.

"There needs to be conversation with parties so we're better prepared for a public hearing on this next month," Board of Supervisors Chairman Bill Federice of Conesville said.

Residents Terry Bradt and Barry Bartlett, who live fairly close to the property and often cross the present Engleville Road Bridge, attended the April 18 meeting to express some concerns with the bridge replacement project. One of the concerns was with the much longer time it would take them to get crops to various places once the present bridge is taken out and the replacement is being constructed.

"Let us get through at least part of this growing season and then take out the bridge," Bradt urged the Board of Supervisors.

In other actions from the April 18 meeting, Supervisor Earlin Rosa of Seward, Chair of the county's Homelessness Committee, gave an update on the county's effort to convert the old and unused county jail on Depot Lane in the Village of Schoharie into roughly 55 to 60 affordable apartment units.

The BOS approved a purchase agreement for the old jail with CSD Housing in October. It had been severely damaged by flooding from Hurricane Irene in 2011 and unused ever since. The redevelopment will not end up costing the county anything, Rosa has stated.

Reading from an email he got from Mike Newman of CSD on current happenings with the redevelopment _ copies of which Rosa provided to the media _ Rosa stated: "We are currently working through some HCR environmental unit comments. We submitted a Phase 1 and related documents to HCR several weeks ago. While there were no comments regarding the 100-year flood plain, since we are taking the project out of the flood plain as part of our project, we are addressing comments related to the site being in a historical district and adjacent to farmland. While it will take some extra time to secure letters from authorities having jurisdiction, i.e. NYS DEC and SHPO, we expect no issues.

"While we would typically wait for HCR environmental clearance before ordering a new survey to depict the general location of the new building as well as outline the limits of flood plain remediation, we have decided to work on the survey concurrently. We have directed our surveyor to begin work and expect the surveyor to be on-site within the next week or two. Based on the survey results, our floodplain civil engineer consultant can then begin working on preliminary design documents, retaining wall design and fill, etc. and engage FEMA to review. Upon receipt of FEMA preliminary approval, we can then begin work on our overall site plan that will be needed for the Village of Schoharie Planning Board submission. It is premature to give you a timeframe for Planning Board submission as it is dependent on several items outlined above."

 

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Celebration of Service for SSFD

By Alexis Pencar

SHARON SPRINGS — On the evening of Saturday, April 19th, 2025 the Sharon Springs Fire Department, Sharon Springs Rescue Squad, Lady’s Auxiliary, friends, family, and more gathered to celebrate and recognize its members for their years of service and dedication.

During this awards ceremony, there were “mixed emotions”, with a moment of silence for “those members no longer with us”, notably Tony Desmond and Connie Vrooman. 

There was special thanks to many within the Sharon Springs community, especially to all new members and especially those much appreciated current members. SSFD Chief David Cunningham presented the awards throughout the evening. 

There was a special thank you and honor to Ray Parsons for his 50 years of service and dedication to the Sharon Springs Fire Department. Parsons joined the department in April of 1975! He was also honored with Fire Fighter of the Year!

Other members that were honored and recognized for their dedication and service were: Pauline Brown for her 67 years of service, joining April of 1958. Joan Baxter for her 74 years of service, joining May 1954. Tom Jozifek for his 35 years of service, joining in 1984. Tom Schilde for his 40 years of service, joining in 1984.

Despite the loss experienced this past year, the evening was full of joy and celebration from a resilient and strong community. It is always significant to recognize those that have provided service for so many years. These outstanding individuals set a high standard for those following in their footsteps.

Interested in getting involved in serving your community? Check out the Sharon Springs Fire Department and Sharon Springs Rescue Squad! They are always looking for new volunteers to fill Driver, First Responder, and EMT positions. SSFD will fund any training that is needed, they meet the first Monday of the month at 7:00 PM. Stop by and learn how you can help support your community!

 

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Sharon Springs Joint Planning Board Hears About Solar Facility

By Chris English

SHARON — Another solar energy facility is up for consideration in the Town of Sharon.

At its Wednesday, April 16 meeting, the Sharon Springs Joint Planning Board did a sketch plan review for a project called Sharon Solar Vista. The 5 MW/AC facility is proposed to take up about 20 acres of a 93-acre parcel owned by Sharon Springs School Board President Helen Roberts on Slate Hill Road near Route 20.

Under the arrangement under consideration, Roberts would lease the 20 acres to a company called Freestate Solar. Attending the April 16 meeting, presenting plans and answering questions was Project Manager Jutta Middel of Renua Energy, a contractor working with Freestate Solar on the project.

At the Feb. 19 joint planning board meeting, Freestate Solar owner Chad Dixon and Middel presented plans for another 5 MW solar project to be located on 7.5 acres of another parcel owned by Roberts on Slate Hill Road. A much larger 50 MW solar facility just off Route 20 has been up and running for awhile in Sharon.

Middel said at the April 16 meeting that Dixon was unable to attend because of a family commitment. At that meeting, Middel distributed various plans and documents to JPB members, including visual and noise assessment reports. Joint Planning Board Secretary Ron Ketelsen said the board would likely be using Lamont Engineers of Cobleskill to conduct the board's review of the plans.

"I think the next step is to get the engineers (Lamont) involved," Ketelsen said. "We will have to have a public hearing at some point."

Town of Sharon residents Todd and Patti Countryman, who live very close to the proposed project, were the only members of the general public to attend the April 16 meeting. The couple voiced a number of concerns.

"You're going to be right in my yard," Patti Countryman told told Middel, referring to the proposed solar facility. "I will see it and hear it. You don't even want to know how much our home will depreciate in value, and we will still have to pay full taxes. It's tough."

Middel talked extensively with the Countrymans both during and after the meeting about how Renua and Freestate Solar could make the project more palatable for the couple, including possibly locating the solar array a little farther away from the Countryman's property.

"We will work with you on it," Middel said. "We will do everything we can to mitigate it."

In other news from the April 16 JPB meeting, Ketelsen announced the resignations of members Nancy Blencoe and Oliver Kindling and said replacements will be searched for.

 

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“Sharon Things - Local Happenings for Sharon Springs”

By Alexis Pencar

Hey Neighbors!

Happy Belated Earth Day this past April 22nd! The weather has evened out a bit since last week with consistencies in day time temperatures around 60s and lows in the 40s. Look out for a warm up on Friday with the potential for nearly 80 degrees! There is some precipitation expected on Saturday with lows dipping down into the 30s the following days. More heat and then rain Tuesday and Wednesday.

Village of Sharon Springs is hosting their 3rd Annual Tree Giveaway this weekend on Saturday April 26th from 10 PM until 3 PM, in recognition of New York State Arbor Day on April 25th. The Village of Sharon Springs will be giving away Silky Dogwood shrubs to residents. There will also be educational sessions by local resident and Arborist Elliot Adams. Contact the Village Office for more information.

Sunnycrest Markets is open with more vendors than ever! Visit for yourself to see what all the excitement is about! They have affordable groceries, produce, bulk items, ready-made food, furniture, and much more! The nursery is now open selling seedlings, hanging baskets, plants, and more! They are adding to their departments with the new deli and are opening the buffet soon! With new extended hours, they are located at 7869 NY-10, Sharon Springs, NY 13459, just outside of the Village. Follow @SunnycrestMarkets on social media for updates, sales, and more!

Blue Star Farm & Cidery is open on the weekends at their new location on Route 20 near Log House. They are now making and serving their own sweet cider and have cider donuts, cider slushies, and more for purchase too! Hours are Saturday, 10-5 PM and Sunday, 10-4 PM. Visit them on Facebook for updates and specials!

Parsons Vegetable Farm has limited seasonal items available with seedlings coming soon!! Check out their social media for more info! The Outrageous Snack Snack is closed for the season but should be opening with fresh donuts soon! 

Sharon Springs Free Library News: Story Time is at 10:00 AM on Thursday mornings and includes a story, craft, and snack. The Library is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Fridays from 3:00 - 8:00 PM, Mondays & Thursdays from 10:00 - 6:00 PM, Saturdays 10:00 -1:00 PM, and Sundays - Closed.  For more Library information please contact (518) 284-3126.

Sharon Springs Food Pantry

Your local Sharon Springs Food Pantry is an excellent local resource for all! They are located in the United Methodist Church on Route 20, across from the school (511 US Route 20, Sharon’s Springs, NY 13459). They are always accepting donations! If you or someone you know is in need of the Pantry, the hours are Thursday 9:00 -10:30 AM and 5:00 - 6:30 PM. For more information please contact (518) 284-2687 or follow them on Facebook.

Worship Services

The Sharon Reformed Church (6858 State Route 10, Sharon Springs, NY 13459) offers weekly service at 10:30 am. Contact at (518) 234-2387 for more details.

The Sharon Springs United Methodist Church (511 State Route 20, Sharon Springs, NY, 13459) offers weekly service at 10:30 am. Contact at (518) 284-2200 for more details.

The St. Thomas The Apostle Catholic Church (24 Maple Avenue, Cherry Valley, NY 13320) offers weekly mass at 10:00 am. Reminder: confession is available 30 minutes before every mass. Contact at (607) 264-3779 for more details.

The Zion St. John’s Lutheran Church Seward (114 Mesick Ave, Cobleskill, NY 12043) offers weekly service on Sundays at 9:00 am. Contact at (518) 234-3222 for more details.

Cornerstone Baptist Church (7274 Route 10, Ames, NY 13317). Sunday Service is at 10:00 am. All are welcome. Contact (518) 673 3405 for more details.

Sharon Sr. Congregate Meal Site

Local residents are invited to enjoy good company and a noon-time meal year round (except holidays) at the Schoharie County OFA’s “Spa Ritz” Sr. Congregate Meal Site at the Firehouse at 137 Beechwood Rd. M-W-F. 8 oz of 1% milk is served with each meal. Orders for meals must be called into the OFA office at (518) 295-2001 before 2 p.m. for the following day. Effective January 1st the suggested donation for those 60 years old and older is $5.00 per meal. Under age 60? You’re welcome to participate for a fee of $7.50 per meal.

To share community news, upcoming events, business specials, adjusted hours, birthdays, anniversaries, or even an outstanding resident, please contact me directly at (772) 971-1410 or alexis.pencar@gmail.com. Have a great week! Thanks!

 

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SSCS Update

By Tori Edwards 

SHARON SPRINGS - After a nice spring break students at SSCS are getting back into it! On Wednesday April 23rd the Red Cross Blood Drive will be held at 11:30am. 

Friday April 25th the Elementary students will be holding their Annual Earth Day Morning Program at 8:20am. Saturday April 26th the All-County Spring Music Festival will be held at 3pm. Monday April 28th is the Board of Education Meeting is at 7:30pm. 

Saturday May 3rd is the Klinkhart Center for the Arts Classes at 10am and performance at 7pm. Thursday May 8th at 6:30pm the Billy Martin’s Cole All Star Circus Fundraiser is happening in the New Gym. Tuesday May 13th the Middle School and High School Spring concert will be held at 7pm. Kindergarten Registration is on May 27th and May 28th at the Sharon Springs Central School Auditorium. 

Keep up the great work students! Let’s Go Spartans!

 

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Schoharie County’s Businesses - From Breakdowns to Breakthroughs: The Story Behind Stars Auto & Towing in Cobleskill

By Dr. Son Tran, SUNY Cobleskill

COBLESKILL — On a quiet late weekend afternoon in Cobleskill, when most businesses were closed and friends were resting, my car suddenly broke down—a big oil leak, and the car wouldn’t run. My wife and I were stranded and unsure where to turn. I called around, but no one was available. That’s when our friend Larry, who had taken us home, happened to notice a sign just around the corner from our apartment: Stars Auto & Towing, located at 142 MacArthur Avenue. That moment of misfortune turned out to be a stroke of luck—introducing us to an extraordinary young entrepreneur named Kevin Rohit.

Kevin is the founder of Stars Auto & Towing, and his story is one of resilience, curiosity, and quiet leadership. What sets Kevin apart isn’t just that he runs a dependable auto repair and towing service—it’s the way he does it, with care, confidence, and humility.

Kevin doesn’t have a background in business. In fact, the only year he spent in college was devoted to something entirely different: criminal justice. “I like exploring things,” he told me. “And I want justice.” He didn’t pursue the field further, but that experience reflects something fundamental about him. Kevin is driven by a desire to understand the world, to protect what’s right, and to serve others—values that guide him in business today.

While he didn’t follow the traditional business education path, Kevin's journey into entrepreneurship was hands-on. He worked for AAA for several years, gaining experience in roadside assistance—fixing parts, jump-starting engines, and towing vehicles. It was hard work, but it gave him more than just technical skills. It taught him how to listen, how to show up when people needed help, and how to treat every customer with dignity.

Eventually, Kevin decided to branch out and start his own company. He founded Stars Auto & Towing in Schenectady, and after three years of growth, made the bold move to relocate to Cobleskill, where he saw better opportunities to serve a tight-knit community.

One of the most inspiring parts of Kevin’s journey is his decision to invite his former AAA manager to join his new venture. That former manager now works under Kevin’s leadership—a testament to the mutual respect and professional culture Kevin has built.

Kevin comes from a family of immigrants from Guyana. His father also runs a small business, and growing up in that environment, Kevin learned the values of responsibility, independence, and hard work. When my wife and I received help from Stars Auto & Towing that weekend, we experienced not just a service—but genuine care. Kevin was prompt, respectful, and reassuring. 

For me, Stars Auto & Towing stands as more than just a business in Cobleskill. It represents the story of a young man who follows his passions—whether it’s justice or jump-starts—and builds trust one customer at a time. His story is truly one of breakdowns turning into breakthroughs—not only for the cars he repairs, but for the path he has paved for himself, his business, and the community he serves.

  Busy but seemingly restful Kevin in his cozy office.

 

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State Issues Final Permit For Controversial Carlisle/Seward Solar Facility

By Chris English

CARLISLE/SEWARD – The day many residents and officials across Schoharie County have dreaded came Tuesday, April 22 when New York State's Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmission issued a final site permit for a 20 MW solar energy facility to be located in the Towns of Carlisle and Seward.

The action comes after years of many residents and officials fighting the facility, saying it represented negative environmental, aesthetic, road use and other impacts that were not being taken seriously enough by ORES and other state officials. At a public hearing several months ago, many officials and residents spoke out against the facility, with not one speaking in favor at the hearing.

"As we expected, it was a rubber stamp by ORES totally ignoring the comments and hundreds of pages of documents that we submitted against the development of the solar project," Carlisle Supervisor John Leavitt wrote in a text message to this newspaper on Wednesday. "We will continue to do all we can for the people of Carlisle and Seward as the courts allow us to do."

Seward Supervisor Earlin Rosa has also spoken out passionately in opposition to the solar facility.

But at a press conference on Tuesday, which was Earth Day, New York Governor Kathy Hocul hailed the issuance of the final permit for the Carlisle/Seward facility, as well as final permits issued for a 40 MW solar facility in Fulton County and 90 MW solar facility in Chautauqua County.

"On Earth Day, New York is proud to announce its latest investment in solar and wind energy, upholding our commitment to build a clean energy economy," Hochul said. "New York is expediting permitting for clean energy projects, all while creating good-paying jobs throughout the state. These projects are a testament to New York's commitment to sustainability and resiliency in the face of a changing climate."

The state has approved 28 large-scale solar and wind projects since 2021, the press release that contained Hochul's comments added.

"I also find it ironic that on Earth Day that the Governor's office would proudly announce that they were going to destroy hundreds of acres of farmland and risk polluting wells of numerous residents," Leavitt countered in his text message.

The final site permit for the Rock District solar project in the two towns is to "develop, design, construct, operate, maintain and decommission" the facility. "This siting permit will automatically expire if the solar facility does not commence commercial operation within seven years from the date of issuance."

The final site permit adds that the plan for the solar facility "complies with substantive provisions and applicable state laws and regulations" and also "complies with substantive provisions of applicable local laws and ordinances, except those provisions the Office has elected not to apply based on a finding that they are unreasonably burdensome in view of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act targets and the environmental benefits of the facility."

Further, the final site permit states that the plan for the facility "avoids, minimizes or mitigates to the maximum extent practicable, potential significant adverse environmental impacts of the facility."

In her comments at the press conference, Hochul added that the three facilities including the one in Carlisle and Seward will "bolster local economies and bring 150 MW of clean energy to about 40,000 homes."

 

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Summit Hears Complete Streets Presentation

By Karen Cuccinello

Following the pledge to the flag and a moment of silence at the April regular town board meeting, Summit Town Supervisor Harold Vroman mentioned that board member Fern Kovac was absent because she had undergone major surgery and wished her well.

Highway Superintendent Jim Dibble stated that the highway crew collected 220 pounds of garbage along some Summit town roads. The past few weeks, the crew has been performing spring cleaning by sweeping roads and also plowing snow. He would like to replace two vehicles with new. One would end up costing about $39,000 after trade-in, and the other about $77,000 which includes the fees for switching equipment. The Board approved putting them out for bids. The dump truck ordered in October 2022 might get to Summit in March 2026. Dump truck deliveries are backed up everywhere.

The clerk's report was mentioned.

Assessor Dave Jones stated everything is running smoothly, change notices will go out by May 1st, and tax grievance day is May 30th from 4-8 pm at the town hall. If you have questions, call 518-287-1430 or email djones@midtel.net.

Historian Karen Cuccinello mentioned her upcoming Summit Old Farms slide show presentation at the town hall on April 24 at 1 pm, and will get American flags for veterans' gravestones from Superintendent Dibble in May.

Code Enforcement Officer Jesse Wilcox is keeping up with open permits, complaints, an order of remedy, training classes and gave out six new permits. His current deputy CEO has resigned and he asked the board about approving a new deputy. He will appoint Dan Minalga, of Jefferson, who is currently a Code Enforcement Officer in Otsego County.

Bills were paid then the meeting was open to the public.

Jen Stinson inquired about getting a Dead End sign placed at the beginning of Davis Road as people sometimes drive in and find out the road ends. GPS maps show the road going through to Sawyer Hollow Road, which it did long ago. Superintendent Dibble will get one installed.

Board member Kearney mentioned a complaint from a resident about the Schoharie County ditch clean-up on Charlotte Valley Rd. It seems they did not clean one area which creates water to back up on the residents' property. Superintendent Dibble suggested that it is best for the resident to call the County DPW about the situation.

Board member Georgia Shafer gave a report on the Revitalization Committee meeting that was held April 3rd. Some of the sub-committees are on hold for now. The Unsafe Building Law is on the Summit website. They are working on a news release about new ideas and will get it to Karen Cuccinello to get the word out.

Charles Feezel, of the Revitalization Committee, gave a presentation about the proposed Complete Streets. The intention is to promote safe access for all users of roadways, install safety indicators to help reduce traffic speed, provide drivers with a chance to appreciate our town, and help establish a pathway to revitalize economic growth. It does not cost anything to establish a Complete Streets policy, and it makes funding for projects more accessible. The Board approved writing up a policy and then, along with the community, will figure out a project that could work for Summit.

Supervisor Vroman mentioned receiving an inquiry from the 607Riders, of Stamford, NY, ATV and UTV riders, about using the town of Summit roads for rides. A representative of their group will speak at the next town board meeting to explain what they are hoping for on May 15th.

 

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Supervisors Move To Put Moratorium On Use of Biosolids

By Chris English

SCHOHARIE COUNTY — Officials in Schoharie County are putting the brakes on the use of biosolids as a fertilizer until more can be learned about their potential harmful effects.

At its Friday, April 18 meeting, the county Board of Supervisors authorized Chairman Bill Federice of Conesville to issue an executive order placing a 30-day moratorium on biosolids use in the county. In addition, the BOS set a public hearing for its next meeting on May 16 regarding a new local law that, if approved, would place a six-month moratorium on biosolids use.

Biosolids are the solid organic matter that remains after wastewater (sewage) treatment. These solids are then treated to meet specific standards before being used as a soil amendment or fertilizer, primarily in agriculture.

Supervisor Alicia Terry of Gilboa, Chair of the county Agriculture Committee, said Friday's BOS actions came after several area farmers showed up at the last two committee meetings to express concerns about biosolids. A representative from a company that distributes biosolids was also present and so it was a rather balanced discussion, Terry added.

"The intent is to slow this down and let's review the science and see what the scientific consensus is on the long-term impact of biosolids," she said in a phone conversation after the April 18 BOS meeting. "Unlike animal waste, biosolids can be super concentrated in terms of residual materials like PFOAs or heavy metals."

Terry added that the supervisors wanted to act quicker with an executive order and then the May 16 public hearing because it's spring and growers are getting busy applying fertilizers to their lands. She said many biosolids end up in landfills but that represents a concern as well because they can produce methane.

The topic got quite a bit of discussion at the April 18 BOS meeting. Chairman Bill Federice of Conesville said the executive order was being drafted and he expected to receive it soon for his signature.

Middleburgh farmer Fred Risse attended the meeting to reiterate his concerns about biosolids. "I was the one that brought this all up," he said.

"Remember that things like Agent Orange and Round-Up were thought to be within acceptable limits years ago," said Supervisor John Leavitt of Carlisle. "It's better to err on the side of safety until we know more about it."

Fellow board member Earlin Rosa of Seward had a similar view.

"It only makes sense to do this temporary executive order just to stop it now before a lot of it is applied," he said. "We should stop it now so we can take a look at it."

County Health Department Director Dr. Nicole Blanchard also weighed in on the issue of biosolids at the April 18 county BOS meeting.

"This is not a new issue," she said. "There have been a number of issues where wells have been impacted by biosolids. It's getting into the water table and drinking water sources. Are we posing a danger to our residents? We are making decisions that could forever impact the agricultural community in Schoharie County."

In other Schoharie County news, Federice updated the Mountain Eagle via email on efforts to find a new county administrator to replace Korsah Akumfi, who left Jan. 3 to take the same position in Tompkins County. The supervisors in January hired Livonia-based Pracademic Partners to assist in the search for a new county administrator at a cost of $19,500.

"We have some additional potential candidates which will be screened soon for interview by the full Board of Supervisors," Federice wrote in the email. "They look good on paper but we will see how it goes in face-to-face interviews."

 

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