SPECIAL TOWN BOARD MEETING

NATIONAL GRID

JANUARY 17, 2006

1:30 PM

Members present:  Supervisor Belden, R. Gladu, A. Steitz and E. Frasier

Absent:  T. LaPointe

Also present:  John Murphy and Steve Arthur, Representatives from National Grid.

The National Grid representatives stressed the need of residences to call the National Grid 800-phone number to report a power outage.  This will automatically send a report telling National Grid where the outages are occurring, especially on side roads.  When there is a major storm their first priority is to get the main line up and running and will move crews to other towns that also need assistance to get their main lines up and running.

Trimming cycle is scheduled for every seven years.  West Hague is scheduled for next year.  They are trying to get the schedule changed for every five years.

The residents of New Hague Road voiced their concern over their meters reading “ERROR” since October of 2005.  They have contacted National Grid and to date nothing has been done.  The New Hague Road and Arcady Bay homeowners also have had occurring problems with power surges.  These surges have blown light bulbs and have ruined electrical equipment. 

Mr. Murphy reported that there were nine major storms last fall.  National Grid was called out for 46 operations.

Mr. Arthur also explained that part of the problem is that 4 men retired who were qualified linesmen and one passed away which has left Ticonderoga with only 3 qualified men and 5 unqualified.  It takes 51/2 years to become trained and qualified. 

Questions were asked on why different areas will have power on one side of the road and no power across the road. 

Mr. Murphy explained that there are a few areas that have two feeds.  Sabbath Day Point is one of those areas.  He also explained that the system is designed to initiate a three-time set up, if a branch falls on the line.  This is why you see three bumps of power in your home, then usually the power will go off. 

Homeowners can install different components to let their neighbors know they have no power.

Motion by R. Gladu, seconded by E. Frasier to adjourn meeting at 2:30 pm.  All voting yes.  Motion carried.

Respectfully submitted,

Deborah F. Manning