Many Short Discussions By Fleischmanns Board

FLEISCHMANNS - Fleischmanns Village Board discussed several topics at its January meeting, including grants, water issues, dog control, truck repairs, and more. Trustees Yasmin Sarabia and Aaron Goldring were absent.

Peg Elsworth of the M-Ark Project reported successful submission of a streetscape grant opportunity. The application includes plans to revitalize five Main Street buildings.

Mayor Samuel Gil expressed pride in the drinking water in Fleischmanns before discussing water notifications. Two letters were recently sent to residents regarding arsenic and lead.

The municipality was required by new State regulations to test each water user's pipes for lead. The results have come back, and users with high levels have been notified. Such lead detection, said Clerk Diane Rossman, is usually caused by pipes connecting to a home or structure, which is the property owner's responsibility.

Gil suggested contacting the water treatment plant with any questions about the letters.

The village plant is operated by Cedarwood Environmental Services. For more information and contacts, visit cedarwoodengineering.com.

In the absence of an official dog control officer, Gil asked residents to keep a closer watch on their pets and clean up after them. Trustee Miguel Martinez-Riddle noted that part of the joy of living in this area is the freedoms that come with not having the overregulation found in major cities. He said it could hinder the community from issuing major fines for various violations.

The board approved an application for the soon-to-be new owners of Goatie Whites restaurant.

Trustees postponed the transmission repair for one of the highway department’s pickup trucks, noting that funds were not available to do so. The repair quote came in over $5,000.

The Tacco Shack rent increased from $500 to $700 a month per the original agreement. The restaurant is located in the former Maxbilt Theatre, which the village hopes to sell.

Trustee Stewart Cohen apologized for the inaccurate statements he made in a debate with Elizabeth Hughes in 2023.

Gil noted disappointment in national political and social issues. “These times are very sad, upsetting, and frightening,” he said, “People like myself with an accent are not safe anymore.” Gil further stated, “We are all brothers and sisters.”

An attendee told Gil that though they may disagree on some village issues, they respect and stand with Gil on larger issues.

The board continued to experience several issues with the Zoom connection. With video and sound cutting out, often resuming with the board on mute.

The next scheduled village board meeting is for Monday, Feb. 9, at 6 p.m.