SPECIAL TOWN BOARD MEETING

PROPOSED SALE OF LAND FROM THE LAKE GEORGE LAND CONSERVANCY TO THE TOWN

JULY 15, 2008

6:30 PM

Members present:  Supervisor Belden, E. Frasier, R. Meola, R. Gladu, and M. Martucci.

Motion by R. Gladu, seconded by E. Frasier to open the meeting at 6:30 pm.  All voting yes.  Motion carried.

Supervisor Belden explained that the purpose of the meeting is to discuss the possible purchase of the Lake George Land Conservancy property, formerly owned by the Darrin Family, located on Route 9N, next to Hague Brook.  There are restrictions on the property.  If the Board decides to purchase this property, it will have to come up to a public referendum.

Supervisor Belden – The property would be great for canoe and kayak access point.  There should be bathroom facilities and lighting.

Richard Gladu – Non-power craft area for launching of canoes and kayaks.  This would be a great tourist attraction and good for the community.  He would also like a parking lot on the top portion of the property with a driveway coming off Rt. 9N.  He feels that a committee should be in place to review the different options.  He also mentioned that the property is in a class A Flood Zone.

Edna Frasier – Her concern is that it would be another valuable piece of property off the tax rolls.  Can we as a Board justify spending $450,000 of Town money when a few residents this winter will be struggling with fuel and food increases. 

Rudy Meola – We need to know what conditions are on the property and then approach the Conservancy on a how many restriction can be lifted.  A letter needs to be written asking that certain restrictions be lifted. 

David Darrin – His mother’s intent is to keep this piece of property green “free space” for the benefit of the town.  He would like the Town to draft a letter to Nancy William, LGLC to see if all parties can agree in lifting some of the restrictions.

Rudy Meola – What advantage would it be to the Town of Hague if we purchased this piece of land.  If we do not purchase, the LGLC already stated that the property will remain as is.  If we purchase it, the town will be liable for the property and its maintenance.  If swimming is permitted, lifeguard maybe required.

Mark Martucci – The price should be negotiated.  We need to obtain a copy of the deed to review the restrictions on the land.

Supervisor Belden requested that the Town Clerk call Warren County and request a copy of the deed.

The Town Board wishes of possible use:

- Non-motorized access for kayak, canoe, sail boards.

- Bathrooms

- lighting

- parking

- Picnic tables

- Swimming

Motion by Supervisor Belden, seconded by E. Frasier to appoint R. Meola and R. Gladu to work as a committee and list and draft a letter to the Land Conservancy addressing its possible uses by the town and to what degree present restrictions would be lifted. The Town Board will review the letter and will forward to the Lake George Land Conservancy.  All voting yes.  Motion carried.

Cathy Clark – Consider an independent appraisal of the property.

Motion by R. Gladu, seconded by E. Frasier to adjourn meeting at 7:00 pm.  All voting yes.  Motion carried.

Respectfully submitted,

Deborah F. Manning

Town Clerk