County reaches agreement with Captain Bill’s

SCHUYLER COUNTY—Schuyler County Legislative Chairman Dennis Fagan reported, during the Monday, June 10 meeting, a lease agreement between the county and Mark Simiele, owner of Captain Bill’s, had been reached “in principle.”
He explained the details are still being worked out, but said “both parties are relieved” and there were “reasonable compromises.” Fagan said Captain Bill’s is an integral part of tourism activities in Watkins Glen.
Simiele spoke at the last legislative meeting saying he was considering moving, but wanted to work out an agreement with the county. Captain Bill’s is located on Route 14, along Seneca Lake.
In other business:
• The legislature approved the annual salary for Fagan at $5,448. County Administrator Tim O’Hearn explained the amount is the same as the current year. A public hearing was held during the meeting, but no one spoke for or against the amount.
• The legislature declared Watkins Glen International was in compliance with the New York State Department of Conservation and was not an environmental threat with its 2013 season of scheduled events.
• O’Hearn announced the county was tentatively approved for a $55,000 grant from the Department of Homeland Security. He explained Schuyler now needs to submit an application by June 24. O’Hearn said the grant could be applied to developing a regional response plan, building sustainability, and maintenance.
• A contract with Steinmetz Planning Group was approved to assist with completion of the countywide comprehensive plan. Fagan explained the group is being brought in to write certain parts of the plan. He added the committee, which represents all towns and villages in Schuyler, is still working on the document as well. The cost will be $30,000, which Fagan said is the amount contributed by some of the municipalities.
• Schuyler County will be the lead agency in a review of possibly constructing fire, emergency medical services, and public works communication towers in Hector, Tyrone and Watkins Glen.
• The legislature changed the employer designation for the Watkins Glen Central School District support services compliance officer. O’Hearn said it will still be the same person at the same pay, but will now be a county employee. He explained previously the school paid the position and was reimbursed by the county.