Tannersville Votes NO to Dissolution

By Max Oppen

TANNERSVILLE – Village of Tannersville voters overwhelmingly rejected the potential dissolution of the Village on Tuesday, January 14. The vote followed months of division within the community and among public officials. To evaluate the implications of dissolution, the Village Board hired the LaBerge Group, a consulting agency with expertise in municipal dissolution, to conduct a $45,000 study. This comprehensive plan, available on the Village's website for weeks leading up to the vote, concluded that dissolving the Village would provide minimal savings to taxpayers, estimated at approximately $200-$300 annually.

The unofficial results showed 78% of voters opposed dissolution. Under New York State law, this outcome enacts a four-year moratorium on any further dissolution votes. Had the proposal passed, the Village government and services would have been absorbed by the Town of Hunter by the end of this year.

The process began in February 2024, when Village trustees adopted a resolution to explore dissolution after a resident-led petition gained traction. Since then, the Village worked closely with LaBerge Group to draft the dissolution plan, hold public meetings, and apply for a New York State Citizen Reorganization Grant to fund the study.

Had most voters supported dissolution, the Village would have officially dissolved on December 31, 2025. Municipal functions, such as public works and administrative services, would have transitioned to the Town of Hunter.

Of 265 residents who cast ballots (excluding absentee votes), 58 supported dissolution, while 207 opposed it. According to the Greene County Board of Elections (BOE), the Village has 536 registered voters, 106 of whom registered since last September in anticipation of the vote. Of the 129 absentee ballots issued, 98 were included in last night's results. The BOE confirmed that 16 of the remaining absentee ballots had been received and will be counted if postmarked by January 14 and received by January 21. The final results will be posted on the BOE website.

Given the current numbers, it is clear that the uncounted absentee ballots will not be sufficient to overturn the outcome.

Mayor David Schneider commented, "A lot of villagers wanted to move toward dissolution due to the animosity and concern that the previous mayor would return. It's exactly what I wanted—for the voters to decide what they want to do. Now they've made the decision. Most likely, the Village will not be dissolved, but we will move forward and come together as a community. And we'll all work together to continue to see that Tannersville is a thriving place to live."

Deputy Mayor David Kashman, a potential Democratic mayoral candidate, stated, "I am happy with the outcome of the vote. Now, we can return to moving this Village forward after a period of divisiveness and conflict. It's critical that we, as a community, recognize the challenges we've faced and, more importantly, focus on the path ahead."

Village Trustee George Kelly, who spearheaded efforts to register more than 100 new voters, offered a fiery response: "These hacks that divided this Village got their heads handed to them last night. All of the pro-dissolution politicians from day one, all of them should resign—including Deputy Mayor David Kashman—for putting my Village through this crap. From day one, I was the only one standing alone against the dissolution vote—bar none. The only one."

Former Village Mayor and potential Democratic mayoral candidate Lee McGunnigle shared his perspective: "I'm proud of my neighbors, full-time and part-time, who saw the reality that the Village is a tremendous place. It has gone through decades of growth and commitment by public servants, and it wouldn't be dismantled in two years by the current mayor, who just came to the Village to put it up for an election. What's more repugnant is that Village officials, after seeing the study and having the same facts the voters had, still decided to put it on the ballot. There are no reasons to dissolve Tannersville. They shouldn't even seek office because the current mayor ran on change, which was to dissolve the Village, and the voters disagreed."

With the vote concluded, residents and officials now face the task of reconciling and working together to ensure Tannersville's continued growth and prosperity.

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Legal Classified Advertisements - Week of January 17, 2025

LLC Notice

NOTICE OF FORMATION of EFTHIMIOU AGENCY LLC. Art. of Org. filed with New York Sec'y of State (SSNY) on 09/19/2024. Office location: Delaware County. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 91 Chestnut St., Oneonta, NY 13850. Purpose: any lawful activity. 

LLC Notice

The name of the LLC is COMPOUND 2024, LLC. The Articles of Organization were filed on 09/26/2024. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity.  The office of the LLC is to be located in Greene County.  The Secretary of State is the designated agent of the LLC upon whom process against the LLC may be served.  The address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process is 8 Pipe Court, Unit 2134, Athens, NY  12015.

LLC Notice

Notice of Formation of Preferred Property Solutions NY 2 LLC, filed with SSNY on 11/06/2024. Office: Albany County. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to LLC: 418 Broadway, Suite R, Albany, NY 12207. Purpose: any lawful act or activity.  

LLC Notice

Notice of Formation of Preferred Property Solutions LLC, filed with SSNY on 11/06/2024. Office: Albany County. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to LLC:  418 Broadway, Suite R, Albany, NY 12207.  Purpose: any lawful act or activity.  

LLC Notice

NOTICE OF DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC) Name: TALLY HO RICHFIELD SPRINGS LLC, The Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/17/24. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.  SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 367 Dugan Road, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

LLC Notice

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR AUTHORITY OF FOREIGN LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY UNDER NEW YORK LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY LAW (“LLCL”)

1.  The name of the foreign limited liability company is Nick N Dom Auto Sales, LLC (the “LLC”). The character or purpose of the business of the LLC is any purpose allowed by law.

2.  The date of filing of the application for authority with the Secretary of State is September 13, 2024.

3.  The jurisdiction of organization of the LLC is the State of Pennsylvania and the date of its organization is November 20, 2018. The principal office of the LLC is: 711 Rohrerstown Road, Lancaster, PA 17603.

4. The County within the State of New York in which the office of the LLC is to be located is Delaware County.

5.  The Secretary of State of the State of New York has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him or her is: 1 Howell Street, Walton, NY 13856.

6. The name and address of the authorized officer in its jurisdiction of organization where a copy of its certificate of organization is filed is: SECRETARY OF STATE, 401 North Street, Rm 302 Harrisburg, PA 17120.

LLC Notice

A&D WELDING LLC Arts of Org. filed SSNY 11/8/2024 Schoharie Co. SSNY design agent for process & shall mail to 41 STATE STREET, SUITE 112, ALBANY, NY, UNITED STATES, 12207 General Purpose

LLC Notice

Notice of LLC Formation of Tillapaugh Land LLC, a NY limited liability company (LLC). Arts. of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State (NYSS) on 11/27/2024. Office: Schoharie County. NYSS designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. NYSS shall mail process to:  The LLC, 226 Cemeteay Road, Carlisle, New York 12031-3510. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

LLC Notice

MEYER CABINS LLC Arts of Org. filed SSNY 10/01/2024 DELAWARE Co. SSNY design agent for process & shall mail to ROBERT J MEYER LLC 1494 STOCKBRIDGE ST, LOXAHATCHEE, FL, 33470, USA General P

LLC Notice

NOTICE OF DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (LLC) Name: TALLY HO RICHFIELD SPRINGS LLC, The Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/17/24. Office location: Otsego County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.  SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 367 Dugan Road, Richfield Springs, NY 13439. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

LLC Notice

CONSCIOUS CONTROL CREATIONS LLC Arts of Org. filed SSNY 11/7/2024 Schoharie Co. SSNY design agent for process & shall mail to 41 STATE ST, STE 112 ALBANY, NY, 12207, USA General Purpose

LLC Notice

Articles of Organization of SMS ONEONTA HOLDINGS, LLC (“LLC”) filed with the Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on December 17, 2024, effective on the date of filing.  Office Location: Delaware County.  SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.  SSNY may mail a copy of any process to the LLC at 4694 Gun House Hill Road, South Kortright, New York 13842, which shall be the principal business location.  The purpose for which the LLC is formed is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which limited liability companies may be organized under the NYS Limited Liability Company Law.

Public Notice - 

Gilboa

I, The Undersigned, Hereby Give Notice That I Have Received The Tax Roll And Warrant For The Collection Of Taxes In And For The Town Of Gilboa, Schoharie County, New York, For The Year 2025 And That I Will Receive Taxes At 373 State Route 990v Gilboa In Person Or Via Drop Box Tuesday Through Thursday 8:30-10:30 & 11:30-3pm. Other Times By App By Calling 607-588-6400 Or Mailed To Address On Bill.Online Payments Can Be Made Https://Payments.Municipay.Com/Ny Gilboa . 

Taxes May Be Received Without Interest By The Collecting Officer On Or Before The Thirty-First Day Of January Or Thirty Days Following The Collecting Officer's Receipt Of The Tax Roll And Warrant, Whichever Is Later. On All Taxes Received After Such Day, There Shall Be Added Interest Of 1.00 Per Centum For The Month Of Febrary Or Fraction Thereof And An Additional 1.00 Per Centum For Each Additional Month Or Fraction Thereof Until Such Taxes Are Paid Or Until The Return Of Unpaid Taxes To The County Treasurer On June 1st After Which A Fee Of 5% Is Added Plus 12.00 Per Centum Per Annum From February 1st Pursuant To Law. 

Tax Rates Per $1,000 Of Assessed Valuation Are As Follows: 

Item  (Levy, Taxable Value, Tax Rate/1,000)

County Tax  3,520,953.00 / 8,486,857.00 = 414.871254 

Gen. Town Wide 366,901.57 /8,550,491.00 = 42.910000 

Hway. Town Wide 877,023.86/8,550,491.00 = 102.570000

Fd134 Stamford Fire District 55,899.05 / 966,324.00 =  57.847109 

Fp134 Gilboa Fire Prot. Dist. 110,000.00 / 7,622,079.00 = 14.431758 

Linda Wyckoff 

Public Notice - 

Bids Wanted

John P. Farrell, Director of Greene County Department of Emergency Services, pursuant to Section 103 of the General Municipal Law will receive sealed bids on behalf of the Greene County Department of Emergency Services for the following: 

Xybix Brand 9-1-1 Dispatch Workstations 

Specifications may be obtained by contacting the Greene County Department of Emergency Services at 518.622.3643 extension 101 or by email at Emergency@greene911ny.gov or available to download at greenegovernment.com. 

Sealed bids should be clearly marked with the item bid. Bids will be received at the office of Greene County Emergency Services, 25 Volunteer Drive, Cairo, NY 12413 until 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at which time they will be opened and publicly read. 

Greene County reserves the right to reject any and all bids. 

Public Notice - 

Stamford

The Village of Stamford Board of Trustees will hold a public hearings on Tuesday, January 21st  2025 at 6:45pm at Village Hall. This will be an informational meeting regarding the River Street Culvert project. The regular Board of Trustees meeting will start at 7:00pm.

Public Notice - 

Greene Co.

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF LOCAL LAW

The Greene County Legislature on December 18th, 2024, adopted Local Law Number 3 of the Year 2024, as follows:

LOCAL LAW NUMBER 3 of 2024

A LOCAL LAW amending Local Law Number 1 of 2004, relating to exemption from real property taxes of property owned by persons with disabilities and limited incomes.

BE IT ENACTED by the County Legislature of the County of Greene, as follows:

SECTION 1. The purpose of this Local Law is to amend Local Law Number 1 of 2004 by increasing the maximum income limit from its current amount of $35,100 to $36,000.

SECTION 2.  This Local Law shall take effect immediately upon its filing with the Secretary of State.

Tammy L. Sciavillo, Acting Clerk

Greene County Legislature

Public Notice - 

Middleburgh

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Town Board of the Town of Middleburgh, Schoharie County, New York at a regular meeting of the Town Board held on the 9th day of January, 2025, duly adopted a resolution, an abstract of which is as follows: A resolution providing that subject to permissive referendum, the Town of Middleburgh intends to accept the transfer and annexation of parcels of land from the municipal boundary of the Town of Cobleskill to the municipal boundary of the Town of Middleburgh being four (4) parcels of vacant land located on and off Oak Meadow Drive pursuant to a petition filed by all owners of said vacant parcels as follows: 

Paul J. O'Neil & Amber D. Tatnall, Cobleskill SBL #70.-2-15.13 to be combined with Middleburgh SBL #70.-4-24.12; being 2.20 acres of vacant land; assessed value of $9,000.00 

John A. Pasquale, Jr. & Dawn D. McLea, Cobleskill SBL #70.2-15.111 to be combined with Middleburgh SBL #70.-4-24.16; being 0.40 acres of vacant land; assessed value of $4,000.00. 

Darren E.P. Keyser & Tara M. Keyser, Cobleskill SBL #70.-2-15.113 to be combined with Middleburgh SBL #70.-4-24, 115; being 0.70 acres of vacant land; assessed value of $4,500.00. 

Town of Cobleskill, portion of road known as Oak Meadow Drive, has no SBL# approximately 1.83 acres of vacant land; no assessed value. 

The full text of this resolution and the petition may be procured by contacting the Town Clerk at her office set forth herein. 

Renee Schmidt, Town Clerk 

P.O. Box 946 

Middleburgh, New York 12122 

(518) 827-5100 

Public Notice - 

Middleburgh

The Middleburgh Town and Village Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Wednesday February  12, 2025 at 7:15PM in the Town of Middleburgh Community Shelter Building at 139 Cotton Hill Rd.  A submission has been received from J and J Becker, represented by Carver and Jan Laraway  requesting a Minor Subdivision of a parcel located on the south side of Layne Ln and the intersection  of State Route 30 to divide the property into two parcels. Written comments may be sent to the  Middleburgh Town and Village Planning Board at middleburghplanning@gmail.com or PO Box 946,  Middleburgh, NY 12122. You are also welcome to attend and speak at this public hearing. All  interested parties will be given an opportunity to be heard. 

Public Notice - 

Cobleskill

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Town Board of the Town of Cobleskill, Schoharie County, New York at a regular meeting of the Town Board held on the 13th day of January, 2025, duly adopted a resolution, an abstract of which is as follows: A resolution providing that subject to permissive referendum, the Town of Cobleskill intends to transfer and have annexed parcels of land from the municipal boundary of the Town of Cobleskill to the municipal boundary of the Town of Middleburgh being four (4) parcels of vacant land located on and off Oak Meadow Drive pursuant to a petition filed by all owners of said vacant parcels as follows:

Paul J. O’Neil & Amber D. Tatnall, Cobleskill SBL #70.-2-15.13 to be combined with Middleburgh SBL #70.-4-24.12; being 2.20 acres of vacant land; assessed value of $9,000.00

John A. Pasquale, Jr. & Dawn D. McLea, Cobleskill SBL #70.2-15.111 to be combined with Middleburgh SBL #70.-4-24.16; being 0.40 acres of vacant land; assessed value of $4,000.00.

Darren E.P. Keyser & Tara M. Keyser, Cobleskill SBL #70.-2-15.113 to be combined with Middleburgh SBL #70.-4-24,115; being 0.70 acres of vacant land; assessed value of $4,500.00.

Town of Cobleskill, portion of road known as Oak Meadow Drive, has no SBL# approximately 1.83 acres of vacant land; no assessed value.

The full text of this resolution and the petition may be procured by contacting the Town Clerk at her office set forth herein.

Public Notice - 

Lexington FD

The Town of Lexington Fire District is selling a 1994 Mack tanker truck, model RD600GK, 172,281 miles, manual transmission, 3000 gallon tank, 18 HP Hale portable pump. Please send offers to: Town of Lexington Fire District, PO Box 90, West Kill, NY 12492 with your contact information. 

Public Notice - 

Harpersfield

The Town Board of the Town of Harpersfield, Delaware County will hold their meetings on the second Wednesday of each month in 2025, at 7:00 PM, at the Town Hall, located at 25399 State Hwy 23, Harpersfield, NY.  A schedule of these meetings is posted on the Town Clerk’s bulletin board, the Town Justice’s bulletin board and the bulletin board at the Town of Harpersfield Post Office.

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SUNY Cobleskill Names Chung Fighting Tiger of the Week

COBLESKILL —  The SUNY Cobleskill Athletic Department has named junior men’s basketball player Chrischen Chung (Poughkeepsie, NY/LaSalle) as the Fighting Tiger Athlete of the Week for the period ending January 12, 2025.

Chung made a strong impression in his first start of the season, scoring 16 points on 6-of-17 shooting, including 4-of-11 from beyond the arc. His performance also featured four rebounds and three steals, playing a pivotal role in pushing the game against Thomas College into double overtime.

The following day, Chung delivered another stellar performance against the University of Maine-Farmington, scoring 16 points on an efficient 7-of-14 from the field and 2-of-5 from three-point range. He contributed four assists and three rebounds.

For the week, Chung averaged an impressive 16 points, 3.5 rebounds, two steals, and two assists per game. He shot 41.9 percent (13-31) from the field and 37.5 percent (6-15) from three-point territory.

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“Sharon Things - Local Happenings for Sharon Springs”

By Alexis Pencar

Hey Neighbors!

The slight warm up over the weekend was short lived with the cold and wind back again too soon. Looks like after a short warm up this weekend we’re in for possible negatives early next week with highs in the 20s by end of week.

Big News for the Village with the recent announcement of the sale of the American Hotel! Please join me in welcoming new American Hotel Owners, Michael Palaia and Marco Braeutigam to Sharon Springs! Check out

For those located in the Village of Sharon Springs, please make sure to do your best to clear your sidewalks. Don’t forget, safety first!

With thoughts of Summertime, it looks like Klinkhart Hall Arts Center is planning on putting on another wonderful Summer Concert Series so please look out for their full schedule of events and performances soon!

Sunnycrest Markets had their Grand Opening this past November! Visit to see what all the excitement is about! They are located at 7869 NY-10, Sharon Springs, NY 13459, just outside of the Village. Follow @SunnycrestMarkets on social media for updates, sales, and more!

Blue Star Farm & Cidery is open on the weekends at their new location on Route 20 near Log House. They are now making and serving their own sweet cider! The usual hours are Saturday, 10-5 PM and Sunday, 10-4 PM. Visit them on Facebook for updates and specials!

Wren’s Earth Refillery is now open for business Thursdays from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The shop is located at 277 Stage Coach Road, Sharon Springs, NY. You can shop anytime at WrensEarth.com. 

Parsons Vegetable Farm has all your Fall and Thanksgiving vegetable needs! The Outrageous Snack Snack has sadly closed for the season but we’re already looking forward to fresh donuts in the Spring! Located on Route 20 across from the Walmart DC.

Sharon Springs Free Library News: 

Story Time is at 10:00 AM on Thursday mornings and includes a story, craft, and snack.

Winter hours have started and the Library is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Fridays from 1:00 - 6:00 PM, Mondays & Thursdays from 10:00 - 6:00 PM, Saturdays 10:00 -1:00 PM, and Sundays - Closed. For more Library information please contact (518) 284-3126.

Sharon Springs Food Pantry

Your local Sharon Springs Food Pantry is an excellent local resource for all! They are located in the United Methodist Church on Route 20, across from the school (511 US Route 20, Sharon’s Springs, NY 13459). They are always accepting donations! If you or someone you know is in need of the Pantry, the hours are Thursday 9:00 -10:30 AM and 5:00 - 6:30 PM. For more information please contact (518) 284-2687 or follow them on Facebook.

Worship Services

The Sharon Reformed Church (6858 State Route 10, Sharon Springs, NY 13459) offers weekly service at 10:30 am. Contact at (518) 234-2387 for more details.

The Sharon Springs United Methodist Church (511 State Route 20, Sharon Springs, NY, 13459) offers weekly service at 10:30 am. Contact at (518) 284-2200 for more details.

The St. Thomas The Apostle Catholic Church (24 Maple Avenue, Cherry Valley, NY 13320) offers weekly mass at 10:00 am. Reminder: confession is available 30 minutes before every mass. Contact at (607) 264-3779 for more details.

The Zion St. John’s Lutheran Church Seward (114 Mesick Ave, Cobleskill, NY 12043) offers weekly service on Sundays at 9:00 am. Contact at (518) 234-3222 for more details.

Cornerstone Baptist Church (7274 Route 10, Ames, NY 13317). Sunday Service is at 10:00 am. All are welcome. Contact (518) 673 3405 for more details.

Sharon Sr. Congregate Meal Site

Local residents are invited to enjoy good company and a noon-time meal year round (except holidays) at the Schoharie County OFA’s “Spa Ritz” Sr. Congregate Meal Site at the Firehouse at 137 Beechwood Rd. M-W-F. 8 oz of 1% milk is served with each meal. Orders for meals must be called into the OFA office at (518) 295-2001 before 2 p.m. for the following day. Effective January 1st the suggested donation for those 60 years old and older is $5.00 per meal. Under age 60? You’re welcome to participate for a fee of $7.50 per meal.

To share community news, upcoming events, business specials, adjusted hours, birthdays, anniversaries, or even an outstanding resident, please contact me directly at (772) 971-1410 or alexis.pencar@gmail.com. Have a great week! Thanks!

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Illness Forces Beloved Teacher’s Retirement

By Chris English

SHARON SPRINGS — A beloved Sharon Springs Central School District teacher is putting a wrap on her 42-year career in the district after recently being diagnosed with cancer.

Barbara Handy, who taught business at the high school level, addressed the school board at its Monday, Jan. 13 meeting. Though her retirement is considered official as of Jan. 2, a memorandum of agreement approved by the board at the meeting allows Handy to keep teaching from Jan. 6 through June 30, as long as she is physically able.

"Despite this challenging diagnosis, Mrs. Handy's spirit remains as indomitable as ever and she plans to continue teaching at SSCS in retirement as much as her body allows," stated an item on the school district website, sharonsprings.org.

An emotional Handy expressed her gratitude to the school board at the Jan. 13 meeting.

"I'm happy you take the time to be on the school board," she said. "I know you make a difference in the lives of kids. Our school community always puts kids first."

Handy recalled how her career plans were not fully formed while attending college but after getting into teaching, realized she had found her true calling.

"I was born to teach, and born to teach here," she said. "People ask me why I stayed for 42 years and I say 'It's difficult to give up the greatest job in the world.' I have been privileged to work here. It's joyful every single day."

School board members told Handy the gratitude she expressed to them is returned in full.

"It has been a pleasure working with you all these years," Board President Helen Roberts said.

In a conversation after the meeting, Superintendent Tom Yorke called Handy "a rock in our district."

In other news from the Jan. 13 meeting, Business Manager Tony DiPace said a meeting of the building committee should be held soon to discuss an energy management performance contract for the district. DiPace and Yorke said the contract could coincide with the next set of improvements to be done in roughly three years.

Specifics on those improvements have not been detailed, the two administrators said.

"The building is in pretty good shape right now," DiPace noted. "It will be three years before anything more happens."

The board approved mergers with neighboring district Cherry Valley/Springfield for the 2025 spring season for modified and varsity baseball and softball. The move means the two districts will field one combined team in those sports. Yorke said Sharon Springs has trouble fielding teams in the spring sports and such mergers have occurred over the last four or five years.

In addition, as has been the custom, Sharon Springs athletes will be able to join the boys and girls track and field teams at Cherry Valley/Springfield, Yorke continued. Sharon Springs historically has not offered track and field, he added.

In personnel actions at the end of the meeting, the board approved Mary Fucci as a non-certified substitute, granted maternity leave to Megan Fancher from April 8 through June 30, accepted the resignation of substitute cleaner Ronel Harper and approved Michael Attaway as a full-time equivalent teacher aide.

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Treasurer: Check Processing Underway - Health Insurance ‘Not Overpaid’

By Matthew Avitabile

SCHOHARIE — Schoharie County Treasurer Mary Ann Wollaber-Bryan defended her office after discussion among the County Board of Supervisors about whether the county overpaid its health insurance accounts and the status of 8,500 checks that supervisors asserted had not yet been reconciled.

The treasurer said that there was no truth about 8,500 checks not being reconciled. “While the reconciliation of checks is currently not occurring within the current financial system, it has, and always has been on a monthly basis. Reconciliation always happens,” she said.

Wollaber-Bryan said that there is a way to transfer financial data to the new Tyler Munis data system, but that it has not been entered by the Treasurer’s office.

She said that the Tyler Munis system is “very labor intensive.” She added that it processes functions differently than previous systems and that there is a “huge learning curve.”

The Treasurer said that the health insurance has “not been overpaid.” The actual expenses are above the budgeted amount. The rates are 50% higher than what was projected, she said. The budgeting accounted for a 10% increase, rather than the 15.5% that occurred. Public budget figures indicate that the increase was approximately 8.95%. The treasurer said that all invoices are paid monthly by the Treasurer’s Office. 

Wollaber-Bryan said that while her office is behind on reconciliation, it is actively working to catch up. She said that the new payroll system was implemented during the middle of a budget year, in September, making the “transition even more labor intensive.”

“Once that reconciliation is complete, we will have a better understanding of what occurred,” she said. Wollaber added that she is not sure that the reconciliation will be completed by the end of the month, but that the team is doing its best to complete the work. Multiple individuals are working on the health insurance reconciliation now.

The board of supervisors passed a resolution requesting a report from the Treasurer’s Office by the end of January.

The Treasurer said that there are a number of payroll items within the new system that makes it more complicated.

She said that most employees had been employed for more than 20 years and had an “exemplary record of fiscal responsibility.” She said that the office has had accolades from the state and that any issues occurred only after changing municipal systems.

The Treasurer said that as the Chief Fiscal Officer, she was limited in what she could do in county finances due to verification clearance. The office has a clear “separation of duties,” she said. There is also an annual budget duty. 

“While I am not actively involved in the daily reconciliation, I am involved in the daily management of the reconciliation. Getting updates, who is doing what, getting up to speed,” Wollaber-Bryan said.

The treasurer said that there was a “misunderstanding” causing the current issue between her office, the County Board of Supervisors, and the outgoing County Administrator Korsah Akumfi. The estimates on how much health insurance rates could change comes late in the budget season and take up two lines in the budget. She said that when you add in the two lines, the county had budgeted for “$10.47 million” rather than approximately $8.8 million referenced by Wright Supervisor Alex Luniewski.

The Treasurer said that she would speak at the next meeting of the Board of Supervisors.

“Absolutely,” she said.

Wollaber-Bryan said that Finance and Personnel Committee meetings will take place prior to the full board meeting, and she expects to likely address it then.

The treasurer argued that her office was running well. She said that all recent hires have been from the private sector, and that the remainder had been in for more than 20 years. She said that there were two retirements and one staff member was promoted to another county position.

The Treasurer said that she has an “open door policy” to members of the public and of county government. She wanted the public to know that the process of reconciliation is continuing and that the taxpayers’ money “is in good hands.”

“We just needed a little time,” she said.

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Free Weatherization Workshop in Oneonta

ONEONTA — The Mohawk Valley Region Clean Energy Hub will host a no-cost Energy Education Weatherization Workshop in Oneonta to provide hands-on experience with various measures to save money and energy.

The two-hour workshop will be held at 11 am on Saturday, January 18th in the Southside Mall Community Room, 5006 State Highway 23, Oneonta, NY 13820. Attendees will learn about energy efficiency and how you can make your home more healthy, affordable, and cozy.

Free lunch and free weatherization kits will be provided to all attendees who complete the class. The kits include surge-protected smart power strips, 2 LED light bulbs, 5 foam outlet gaskets, and 5 foam switch gaskets, window shrink and seal insulation kit, door sweep, premium rubber weather-stripping, and foam tape for windows and doors. When used together in your home, these supplies can help to seal gaps through which heat escapes, ultimately making your heating and cooling more efficient.

Attendance is limited, so registration is required for the workshop. To register, visit https://www.mohawkvalleyenergychoices.org/events. For more information, contact Josephine Roman at jr2449@cornell.edu or 315-736-3394 ext. 260.

The Mohawk Valley Region Clean Energy Hub, also known as Smart Energy Choices - Mohawk Valley, is one of 12 Regional Clean Energy Hubs in New York state. Smart Energy Choices - Mohawk Valley is a collaboration of Cornell Cooperative Extensions of Oneida, Herkimer, Otsego and Schoharie Counties. The Hub deploys Energy Advisors to help residents and businesses in the Mohawk Valley make informed energy decisions and carry out energy saving projects. For more information about the Hub or to be put in touch with a local Energy Advisor, visit mohawkvalleyenergychoices.org/meet-our-team.

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Cobleskill Pursues Million Dollar Grant

By Joshua Walther

COBLESKILL - On Monday evening, the Cobleskill Town Board talked with Brendon Becker of Lamont Engineers about a new County Infrastructure grant offered by the state.

Available to every county in upstate New York, the $1,000,000 grant seeks to improve or reinstate roadways and water mains for communities with a good plan to do so.

Each county can earn up to $500,000 from the total pool, but if their plan is pro-housing and promises the construction of at least ten new units, they could be eligible for the full million dollars.

Lamont Engineers has recently caught wind of a property owner on Shad Point that wants to develop new housing, and thought it would be the perfect fit for Cobleskill’s own submission.

Mr. Becker explained that the owner is looking to build 36 small lots, 19 larger housing units, and four apartment complexes that each house anywhere from five to ten dwellings, for a total of around 32 acres.

If Cobleskill is awarded the full prize pool, Mr. Becker said that would go a long way toward all of the lots’ infrastructure upgrades, including water, electricity, and telecom. 

With the Board in awe of the scope of the grant and the planning that Lamont Engineers has done, they quickly approved of moving forward with Cobleskill’s grant submission to Shane Nichols at County Planning.

In other news, the Board also revisited their dog kennel leasing contract with each of the surrounding municipalities. 

This is a renewal of a plan put in place last year, where Cobleskill offered its facilities for $300 in the face of the growing county-wide dog crisis.

Although the Board received news that Richmondville had backed out of the deal, the Board agreed to still lease with Sharon, Summit, and Seward if the need arises.

As the meeting concluded, Supervisor Werner Hampel profusely thanked the highway department for their services in the wake of the recent snowfall, a commendation that each member of the Board supported.

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Cobleskill Cruises to Victory Over UMPI To Stay Undefeated in NAC

Taylor Meacham dribbles past defender. Photo by Saro Karageozian

COBLESKILL — The SUNY Cobleskill Fighting Tigers women's basketball team extended their flawless North Atlantic Conference (NAC) record to 5-0 with a commanding 99-56 victory over the University of Maine-Presque Isle (UMPI) on Monday afternoon at Iorio Gymnasium.

Leading the charge was Antonia May (Amsterdam, NY), who delivered a stellar performance with a game-high 28 points, complemented by seven rebounds, four steals, three assists, and two blocks. Logan Thayne (Hoosick Falls, NY) notched her 14th double-double of the season, scoring 22 points and pulling down 10 rebounds, while adding two assists. Cara Walker (Phelps, NY/Midlakes) also posted a double-double, contributing 11 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, and a steal. Senior Taylor Meacham (Berne, NY/BKW) added to the team's balanced attack with 13 points, five assists, four rebounds, a block, and a steal.

The Fighting Tigers dominated in all aspects of the game, shooting an efficient 48.0 percent from the field compared to UMPI’s 32.7 percent. Cobleskill was lights out from the charity stripe, hitting 87.5 percent of their free throws against UMPI's 70.8 percent. The Tigers controlled the glass with 52 rebounds, including 23 on the offensive end, leading to 34 second-chance points, vastly outperforming UMPI’s seven. Cobleskill’s interior presence was felt throughout the game, as they scored 52 points in the paint, and capitalized on turnovers with 30 points compared to UMPI’s mere three.

The game opened with Cobleskill jumping to a 13-2 lead, driven by the dynamic duo of May and Thayne. By the four-minute mark, a pair of free throws from Walker extended the lead to 18-7. Although UMPI found a brief rhythm late in the quarter, Cobleskill finished the first period ahead 22-15.

In the second quarter, Cobleskill asserted dominance with an 11-2 run, quickly taking control. A 10-0 surge, highlighted by back-to-back three-pointers from May, widened the gap to 43-23. The Tigers maintained their momentum, closing the first half with a substantial 48-31 lead.

After the break, Cobleskill picked up where they left off, launching an 8-0 run to start the third quarter. A layup by Thayne, assisted by Meacham, extended their lead to 62-34. May’s floating jumper just before the buzzer gave the Tigers a 73-47 lead entering the final period.

In the fourth quarter, Cobleskill continued to control the pace of the game, outscoring UMPI 25-9. Sierra Goodson (Amsterdam, NY) capped the victory with a pair of three-pointers, as the Tigers cruised to their decisive 99-56 win.

The Fighting Tigers will look to continue their unbeaten streak when they travel to Husson University for a NAC showdown on Saturday, January 18, at 1:00 p.m. in Bangor, Maine.

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Chung Shines in Career Night, But Cobleskill Falls to UMPI 80-77 in Overtime Thriller

Chrischen Chung going around his defender. Photo by Saro Karageozian

COBLESKILL – In a nail-biting North Atlantic Conference (NAC) showdown, the SUNY Cobleskill men’s basketball team fell just short in a thrilling overtime battle, losing 80-77 to the University of Maine-Presque Isle (UMPI) on Monday evening in the Iorio Gymnasium.

Junior guard Chrischen Chung (Poughkeepsie, NY/LaSalle/CGCC) was the standout performer for the Fighting Tigers, setting a career-high with 24 points, to go with six rebounds and two assists. Chung's sharpshooting was a highlight, as he sank 6-of-12 three-pointers and shot 8-of-18 from the field. Elijah Morris (Mount Vernon, NY) contributed a well-rounded performance with 13 points, six assists, four rebounds, and a block, going 5-of-6 from the charity stripe. Chace Peterson (Troy, NY) added 13 points and seven rebounds, making key plays on both ends of the court with two steals and a block. First-year forward Marquay Tanksley (Cohoes, NY) also made a significant impact, tallying 10 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks.

The game was a classic seesaw affair. Maine-Presque Isle led the way with a shooting percentage of 46.3 percent compared to Cobleskill's 36.8 percent, but Cobleskill held the advantage in three-point shooting, hitting 26.9 percent of their attempts versus UMPI's 15.4 percent. The rebounding battle was tightly contested, with UMPI narrowly out-rebounding Cobleskill 49 to 47. Cobleskill edged out second-chance points 9-6 and matched UMPI's bench contributions, 12-11. The Tigers also showed strong defensive presence with five blocks in the game.

The action started with UMPI jumping to an early 14-4 lead, but Chung's sharp shooting brought Cobleskill back within striking distance. His first three-pointer at the 14-minute mark sparked a scoring spree, cutting the deficit to 14-7. Chung's back-to-back threes later narrowed the gap to five points. A layup by Jermaine Wheeler (Manhattan, NY/Marist) brought the Tigers within two, but UMPI regained their rhythm to end the half ahead 39-30.

Cobleskill roared back in the second half with a 13-4 run, tying the game at 43-43 within three minutes, thanks to key three-pointers from Chung and Chalik Rush (Brooklyn, NY/Graphic Arts). The teams remained neck-and-neck, with the score knotted at 47-47 after a Tanksley layup. In the final minutes, with UMPI leading 70-65, Cobleskill mounted a gritty comeback. Peterson's clutch layup reduced the deficit to a single possession, and in a dramatic turn, Chung hit a deep three-pointer with just seconds remaining to force overtime.

Overtime was equally intense, with the teams tied at 74-74 with under two minutes left. Despite another critical three-pointer from Chung that brought the Tigers within one, UMPI held their nerve at the free-throw line to seal the 80-77 victory.

The Fighting Tigers will look to bounce back on Saturday, January 18, as they hit the road to face Husson University at 3:00 p.m.

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Carlisle Board Institutes Sliding Scale Fee For Driveway Culverts

By Chris English

CARLISLE — Town of Carlisle residents who need culverts as part of their driveways will be paying more starting this year.

At their Wednesday, Jan. 8 meeting, town board members on the recommendation of Highway Superintendent Mike Broadwell voted to approve  a sliding scale driveway culvert installation charge. Instead of the standard $25 driveway permit fee previously charged by the town on all driveways, residents who need culverts as part of their driveways will now pay a variable charge depending on the size of the culvert. The minimum charge will be $150.

Residents who don't need a culvert for their driveway will no longer pay any fee. Broadwell said the change was needed because the town was not coming close to covering the costs when he and his crew installed driveway culverts. Under the new system, residents who need culverts will also continue paying for the culvert itself.

Broadwell said the newly approved charge should at least cover the cost of stone used in the installation of driveway culverts. 

"We're still not charging for labor and equipment," said the highway superintendent, who pointed out that his crew will also continue maintaining the driveway culverts for life at no extra charge to residents. The new charge was included in 18 organizational resolutions for 2025 approved at the Jan. 8 meeting. Others included fixing salaries, approving other annual fees and establishing the first Wednesday of every month again as the day for town board meetings.

In some regular business at the meeting, there was some brief discussion on the ongoing issue of a 20MW solar power facility that is more than likely coming to a parcel of land in Carlisle and the neighboring Town of Seward.

While the New York State Office of Renewable Energy Siting has not yet issued a final permit for the facility, most in Carlisle and the surrounding area believe that is only a matter of time.

"I've got to think it's coming at any time," Carlisle Supervisor John Leavitt said of the issuance of the final permit. The town boards in Carlisle and Seward were among many officials and residents who fought hard against the facility, saying it will have detrimental environmental and other impacts.

Bill Toohey, member of a local group called Citizens Against Solar Assault, complained at the Jan. 8 meeting that ORES has not included in the record for the project many submittals by CASA, While Leavitt said the developers of the solar facility have already done some road improvements in the area of where it will go, he, Toohey and many others continue to worry about the impact heavy truck and other traffic generated by the facility will have on roads.

"I will be on the road every day and my camera will be burning up," Toohey said.

"We'll fight the fight, but I can't sit here and say they aren't going to make a mess up there," added Leavitt.

Carlisle Council Member Mary Tillapaugh reported at the Jan. 8 meeting that the town's annual Christmas Party held at the municipal building on Crommie Road in mid-December was a big success.

"It was wonderful, it was packed and everyone had a grand time," she said.

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