At 6:30, Thursday evening, the Town of Wawarsing held its first Board Meeting of 2007. Beginning with a brief Reorganization Meeting, board members agreed to a number of motions, many of them appointing individuals to prospective positions within the Town.

Some discussion was raised by Councilman John Gavaris concerning the closing of the Township during inclement weather. Supervisor James Dolaway responded, assuring that closing was a rare occasion, only occurring after much deliberation. Gavaris agreed to the motion. Discussion was also raised by Councilwoman Gunther concerning the amount of petty cash supplied to town departments. Dolaway explained that one hundred dollars is always available, and though there isn't a limit to how much each department may use during a fiscal year, the money is rarely used, and only replenished two or three times yearly. Additionally, in order to use the money, vouchers are filled out and receipts are necessary.

The last discussion during the Reorganization Meeting was the topic of salaries. Though many salaries were approved, some remained opposed by Dolaway, and were tabled until a later date.

Following the Reorganization Meeting, the Pledge of Allegiance was repeated and the regular Board Meeting began. Allowing only three minutes for petitioning, Steve Krulick presented a prepared draft proposal concerning a moratorium for large-scale development in the Wawarsing area. Councilman Thomas Geelan vocally denounced the proposal. Dolaway supported Geelan, suggesting Krulick "round up people" to sign a petition.

Following the petitioning, a number of resolutions were passed, including adopting the Deferred Compensation Plan for employees and increasing the Napanoch and Kerhonkson Sewer District's quarterly rates.

Among notable resolutions was the discussion surrounding the amendment of the Employee Handbook regarding vacation leave. Gavaris questioned whether employees received vacation pay at the rate that they earned the pay, or at the rate that they received it, suggesting that it was only fair to receive the pay at the rate that it was earned; Geelan disagreed. After a lengthy discussion it was agreed upon that vacation pay would be paid at the rate that it was earned. Everyone agreed, with the exception of Geelan.

Following the resolutions, councilpersons were given time to discuss concerns. Gavaris suggested that the town centralize the location of vehicle keys and log books. Dolaway countered that it would create a "headache" and that he felt more comfortable with one person driving one vehicle. After a great deal of discussion concerning the issue, it was determined that more research needed to be done.

Dolaway concluded the meeting with a discussion about upcoming concerns, including an Emergency/Evacuation Plan and the replacement of the Kerhonkson Bridge.

The next Town Board Meeting will be held on January 18, 2007 at 7:00p.m. at the Town Hall.

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