By Michelle L. Santoro

Sherman – The Sherman Board of Selectmen (“BOS” or “Board”) met in Charter Hall on Thursday, in-person and via Zoom, for its regularly scheduled board meeting.  Following discussion of administrative items, First Selectman Don Lowe spoke about and then led those in attendance in a Moment of Silence for Wethersfield firefighter Robert Sharkevich Sr., who was killed last Tuesday while battling a brush fire in Berlin, Connecticut.

Sherman Volunteer Fire Department (“SVFD” or the “Department”) Chief Chris Fuchs thanked Mr. Lowe for his kind words.  Mr. Sharkevich died after a utility vehicle rolled over onto him in the line of duty.  The Chief reiterated the inherent dangers in what they do and spoke about the necessity of safe equipment for the SVFD and the training its members undergo.    He thanked the Town for its support in providing the funding they need to have safe vehicles and “undergo good training.”

Chief Fuchs advised, the Department responded to 324 emergency calls since January and that the Department was very busy overnight for the “last few weeks.” An “already certified” firefighter joined the ranks of the SVFD during the past month and is undergoing EMT training.  Three other members began EMT classes.  According to Fuchs, October is “Fire Preventi on” month and earlier in the month, the Department provided fire prevention education for 150 Sherman students, which information was scheduled to continue at the Department’s Hallow een Bash over the weekend.  He reminded all at the meeting of the dangers of brush fires and, in anticipation of the upcoming holiday season, the SVFD had already purchased Christmas trees for its Annual Christmas Tree sale.

A late addition to the meeting agenda, Mr. Lowe discussed the Town’s receipt of a gift for $440,615.45 to be used for the senior center.  The Board voted unanimously in favor of accepting the anonymous donation.  Selectman Bob Ostrosky said, “we are very grateful.”  During discussion, Mr. Lowe reminded the Board of a $25,000 gift two fiscal years ago for use toward the building of a new senior center.

On motion of Selectman Joel Bruzinski, the Board voted to bring to town meeting a request for an amount, not to exceed $105,000, for the purchase of a Kaboda KX057-5 mini excavator with attachments – bucket, shredder, and to include an extended warranty, for use by Public Works (“PW”).  Mr. Bruzinski suggested that prior to such meeting, the public should be informed about what it is excavators are used for, and how useful they are for “getting things done.”

PW Supervisor Kris Fazzone reported, a “bunch of tree work” was completed over two days this past month; and two more days are scheduled in November.  He said, PW is “focusing on trees in most dire need of attention,” and requested residents call PW if anyone knows of trees needing attention.  PW has paving projects coming up, including chip sealing on Taber and Quaker; and Fazzone noted the “pickl eball courts are coming along.”  Completion is expected this week, then PW needs to bring over large rocks.  Town Business Manager Liz La Via spoke about restrictions for use of surplus pickleball money.  Mr. Lowe mentioned the need for an Opening Ceremony for the courts but noted the Board did not wish to “hold up players from playing.”  Mr. Ostrosky believes an official opening can be after the courts open for public play.  Mr. Fazzone noted the need for new signs.  Discussion ensued about possible open times for the courts. 

 Lastly, Fazzone advised that Wakeman Hill Road is “really, officially, done, done.  It’s really in great shape,” and noted the project came in under budget. He then mentioned a contractor going door to door claiming to have worked for the Town on Wakeman; however, Fazzone says it is not true.  While details of what the “contractor” is saying to residents are unclear, Mr. Lowe noted he has had residents call asking for advice regarding the “door-to-door solicitation.”

The Board voted to retain Matt Ritter as Bond Counsel for the Sherman School Renovation Project.  Mr. Ostrosky questioned how all parties involved with the project will continue to communicate project updates to the public.

Other matters discussed by the Board included Wakeman Hill Road traffic speed mitigation.  Mr. Lowe said he will reach out to Town/Village of Pawling or Dutchess Police Department/Sheriff’s Department.  Mr. Fazzone suggested asking if they’d consider reducing the speed limit on the New York side, which may help reduce speed once motorist crossover into Sherman.  Selectman Brusznski is drafting bid specifications for the Mallory Town Hall oil burner and HVAC.  Mr. Lowe advised that the structural engineer for the Scout House project completed work last week.  The Town awaits a report and analysis, which includes a prior report.  The First Selectman hopes to have bid specifications out later in November.   

Lowe also advised that following this week’s meeting, the committee working on the proposal for a new senior center may have an idea as to cost for the project.  He said the completion of schematic drawings was near and the committee is “getting close to putting pieces together for referendum.”  Mr. Ostrosky suggested that any documents ready and/or received be put on the Town website for public perusal.  Following a “small delay” the Town Beach dock additions and redesign work project is “back on track.”  A meeting took place on Tuesday with the designer and engineer.  The Board voted to bring to town meeting a request, not to exceed $10,000, for payment of the application to FERC seeking permission to proceed.  

Discussion was had regarding whether Sherman should remain a member of the Western Connecticut Council of Governments (“WestCOG”).  Mr. Lowe indicated it might not be cost-effective for Sherman to continue with its membership.  The current fee is $7,707, but it increases to $7,861 next year.  Sherman hasn’t received grant money because of its affiliation with WESTCOG.  Though a “good organization,” Lowe said Sherman is geographically challenged for receiving aid/grants through WESTCOG membership.  Perhaps a change to a council of government more akin to the Town of Sherman, like the one that Kent or Goshen belong to.  Lowe indicated more research is needed. 

Last of the discussion items was traffic enforcement/YOUR SPEED signs .  The (renewal) grant has not come through, so overtime money may not be there to continue with the program “as is.”  However, Mr. Ostrosky wants to keep “the conversation” – even if grant money doesn’t come through for overtime, maybe a “smaller” traffic enforcement program can continue.  The Board discussed. 

Look out for Happy Acres Farm lease renewal to be an agenda topic at future meetings.  Mr. Lowe indicated he supports a long-term lease and requested the Board consider adding longevity to a lease renewal for the current farm manager.  Through correspondence, one resident inquired whether management of the farm will “go out to bid” at the end of the current lease.   

On the administrative side, Ms. La Via advised that the audit is complete.  Revenues came in better than budget overall – the Town budget was “better” but the school budget ran a deficit, resulting in an $18,880 deficit overall. Ms. La Via said the Board of Education followed proper protocol by notifying the Town/Board about the expected deficit in advance, and that the deficit was justified.  The Board unanimously approved a reduction of surplus in the general fund for that amount for the 23/24 fiscal year. 

The next Board of Selectmen’s meeting is scheduled for November21 at 7pm in Mallory Town Hall.