Jefferson Holds Hearing on CDBG Housing Repair Grant, Schedules Hearing for Water District

JEFFERSON – The Jefferson Town Board opened its meeting July 9 with a moment of silence in memory of Stephanie  Ruquet, an active community member and beloved member of the Jefferson Historical Society.The June 8 meeting was conducted by Deputy Supervisor Ken Cole, with a light agenda, following a  public hearing on a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant housing rehabilitation grant application.

Jacindra Shareski was present from the Western Catskills Community Revitalization Council (WCCRS) to outline the particulars of the grant. She said $410,000 is allocated for construction, $60,000 for environmental remediation and $30,000 in administrative fees. Health and safety repairs will be given a priority and bringing the homes up to code. It could include roofing, plumbing, electric wiring, lead paint reduction and other repairs. There is  a separate grant being administered for veterans.

Information regarding the grant is available on the WCCRC Facebook page and its website. The WCCRC will be paid $2,300 to write the grant and would administer the grant if awarded.

Bob Glas was present to seek a grant to fix the flag pole at the cemetery. The flag pole is leaning and and he would also like to put an historical marker at the cemetery. It is actually called a burial ground, he said. 

He also spoke regarding the condition of some of the trees on the town green which have been damaged by weed-wacking. He asked if those tending to the green could be asked to be more careful as the damage could cause the trees to die. Apparently some citizens have spoken to the crew, but were told they are not their boss.

It is expected the roof repairs to the town hall will be done in the near future.

The town will open an account with the highway department to obtain gas for the person mowing the old cemetery for the town.

There will be a workshop on July 22 regarding the Jefferson Water District. Repairs to the water district have exceeded the budget. A public hearing will be held on Aug. 5 regarding the water district's financial problems.