Watkins discusses fire department options

WATKINS GLEN--At the most recent village of Watkins Glen board meeting, trustees discussed overnight loitering, the fire department's governance and the summer recreation program.
Currently, the village does not have an ordinance that speaks to overnight loitering. Without documented regulations, it is impossible to do anything more than ask those loitering to relocate. With an ordinance, law enforcement would be able to involve the department of social services and help homeless people find necessary services.
Trustees also discussed potential changes with the Watkins Glen Fire Department. Currently, the department is governed by the village. The village contracts with area towns to determine coverage areas. According to Fire Chief Jason Hudson, "We are looking to transition away from the village. We would be governed by five commissioners, rather than the village board. The important thing to know is that we're still here. There will be no loss in coverage."
Although Hudson said he is not at liberty to discuss details, he did confirm that public meetings will be held before any decisions are finalized. Hudson also explained that the decision will be made by the village and representatives from the Towns of Dix and Reading.
In other news, trustees authorized Craig Bond, Parks and Event Center Manager, to develop a proposal designed to reinstate the summer recreation program at Clute Memorial Park and asked him to bring ideas back to the board for discussion. Preliminary plans suggest the program would need to hire at least two directors and counselors. Projections suggest that 120 children, up to the age of 12, could be served. Most campers would be Schuyler County residents, although the program would be open to children from other area counties as well as youth visiting the area and staying in the campground. In addition to board support, organizers will seek support from area organizations. The Watkins Glen School District has a history of supporting the program and is involved in discussions. The cost to participants is just one issue that needs to be addressed.
Finally, the village has decided to change the way it picks up leaves this season. This year, crews will not respond to individual phone calls asking to have leaves picked up. Instead, the village will pick up leaves that are raked to the edge of the street during the month of November, starting at the south end of the village and working north.
Trustees also authorized Kristin VanHorn, director of planning, to submit an application seeking support from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This act provides resources to improve roads, bridges, transit, rail, ports, airports, broadband, and drinking water and wastewater infrastructure.
"Money will be allocated to counties within our ARC region," VanHorn said. "The lift station at Clute Park is nearly shovel-ready and meets the requirements. The application is for a 50/50 match, but other grant money can be applied to the village's share."