Retiring Judge Lamport Honored by Stamford Town Board

STAMFORD –  Members of the Stamford Town Board posed for a picture as they hosted a small reception for retiring Town Justice Jackie Lamport last Wednesday. She didn't get a gold watch, but she did get a gold clock with an inscription thanking her two decades of service and dedication as the judge.

"We know it isn't an easy job," said Supervisor John Kosier. "We appreciate that you served as our town justice for 20 years."

She was also recently honored by the Delaware County Magistrates Association for her years of service. Also attending was her longtime court clerk, Barb Rockefeller. Lamport's term ends at midnight Dec. 31., however, she will remain the town's bookkeeper.

Kevin Rinehart, deputy highway superintendent, reported he had hired a new crew member, Eric Fredenburgh, who does have some experience and did well plowing over the recent storm. "We have had a few breakdowns, but nothing serious," reported Rinehart. "We have been doing some plowing and are trying to keep up with the everyday snow runs. There are still some branches to be cleared from the storms and he said he will be borrowing a wood chipper from the town of Jefferson. The town is also seeking a grant for a rubber-wheeled excavator.

A report from Ray Baker, executive director of Headwaters EMS, indicated they answered 393 calls in the town of Stamford by the end of October. Harpersfield had 214 calls and Kortright had 122 calls, for a total of 751 calls, with 47 missed calls. It was also noted that there had been a resignation from the board of directors and a realignment of the officers. Eileen King is now the president; Darby Hartwell is vice president and Meg Hungerford is now treasurer.

Town Clerk Ruthanne VanBuren reported she is researching a new phone system that will allow calls to be directed to various accounts via an automated answering system. She said the monthly payment would be half of the cost of cable service, however, there is a startup fee for the wiring. She is waiting to find out what that cost would be and will get back to the board members.

Supervisor Kosier reported he will be contacting Kevin Brown to get the new security and fire systems installed. It will be covered by a Robinson-Broadhurst Foundation grant.

Board members then moved into an executive session to discuss personnel.