Minutes of January 26, 2006
Rosendale Environmental Commission Meeting

Attendance: Chair ProTem Joan Maylie, Joyce Hartsfield, Nick Mercurio, Paul Lendvay, Deb Horowitz, Rick VandenHeuvel, Ilonka Metsger.
Town Board Liaison: Manna Jo Greene
Guest: Jeannine Cahill
Absent: Michael Montella

Minutes of previous meeting held on Dec 1, 2005 were discussed and reviewed. Corrections made. Motion to approve by Paul L. and seconded by Nick M. Approved by all.

Joan opened this meeting asking for suggestions of what this Commission would like to accomplish this year and that at any time open discussion is encouraged.

Old business: Joan mentioned that there is now one vacancy . This evening guest, Jeannine Cahill, is interested in becoming a member and was asked to resubmit an application at Town Hall. Approvals will take place at the February Town Board meeting. Joan addressed the problem of absenteeism, noting the large amount of continuous work done by the Commission and the need for active participation. After discussion, the following motion for an REC policy was made:

Three (3) unexcused absences will be equivalent to submitting a resignation in any calendar year. Any absent member is responsible to call the Clerk or/Chair before scheduled meetings. At such time that a member has three unexcused absences, notification will be made to the Town Board Liaison and action taken.
Nick M. made this motion, seconded by Paul L. and unanimously approved.

BAT report: Manna reported that she asked Michael M. to export the text and send it to her and to Tim Kerin. Deb reported that she would like to attend the three-day short course offered by Hudsonia later this spring (date is TBA), to learn to read maps and identify plants. Joyce and Rick are also interested in this course. When dates announced, info will be shared with any interested parties. Joan would like to see the BAT completed this year and has asked Ilonka to coordinate with the parties involved to complete this project. Deb and Joan will also assist.
Nick M. stated he will be taking a class on GIS and may be able to help with future mapping.

Water budget: Deb is coordinating this project. Steve Winkley is gathering information. Deb will contact Steve W. for updates.
Manna reported that Paul Rubin included Rosendale Karst in a recent report on Karst for the proposed Kingston Waterfront development projects. Paul R. recommended that the ASTM standard for testing be used to evaluate the presence of a large Karst aquifer on that site.
Open space: Joan reported on the meeting with Dave Scherf on Dec 9, 2005 at the EMC. Nick was also in attendance, but due to the inclement weather other were not able to attend. There are about 30 more pages input. Joan will ask the Rosendale Historical Society and Ann Gilchrist, Town Historian for input, as well as the Recreation Commission. Dave S. is continuing the mapping and will work with Geomatica (Town's GIS consultant). He will be giving us a presentation at an upcoming meeting, possibly in April or May, depending on his schedule.
Joan M also would like to recommend to the town board that the town create a Open Space Committee, involving townspeople and interested citizens.

Comprehensive Plan: Joan would like to see the open space plan incorporated into the Comprehensive Plan. Paul will attend meetings, be our liaison and report to the REC. Manna reported that there will need to be a public hearing the master plan before the town board can take action.

Planning Board: Nick reported on a housing development application in Webster Locks Road area, which would include extending right of ways and possibly donating a strip of land for public access to the Creek. Webster Locks is a dead end road. If the Town accepts ownership, it would be responsible for maintenance. Patrick McDonough recommended it be given to the DEC instead. The developer states his intention is to improve the quality of housing in Rosendale. 6 more lots are to be divided. The planning board chair asked that a full EIS be done on these new lots, and possibly also to allow recreational access. The developer was also in agreement that he would deduct the wetland acres from the buildable area (required by law, according to County Planner, Dennis Doyle.
The McColgan application will be on the PB agenda for Feb. Stormwater regulations require a permit for over one acre of disturbance for this three acre business; hopefully this procedure will be followed.
Nick will continue to be REC liaison to this board and report on any concerns of interest to us. Paul offered to be backup liaison along with Joan when Nick is not able to. Joan stated that for continued cooperation that we as a Commission need to supply the Planning Board with information from the open space report, when available. The REC needs to review site plans and make recommendations; we need to inform them of any new directives and should also invite them to our meetings with guest speakers. Joan asked Ilonka to contact the new Planning Board clerk to request easier transmission of applications before their board that are of interest to our Commission.
Manna reported that IMAR will be building an above ground storage facility on Binnewater Road. They have marked off wetlands on their site plan and are considering many green features.
Computer room: Joan has asked Rick V. to be in charge of transmitting data to Dr. Gay Canough on a regular basis. Rick was concerned about unauthorized access to the solar data monitoring computer. Keys will be made -- one given to the town hall for emergency access. Nick will help Rick, and keys will be given to him, Joan and Manna.

Reference Library: Joan M. asked if the REC needs any furniture, bookcases for the computer room. Joan appointed Ilonka M. to help with Deb H. to maintain this.
Nick would be willing to help set up a Yahoo group with other town environmental commissions to help share info within various townships. Manna announced that Clearwater was given a grant to create watershed awareness with towns in the Rondout and Kinderhook Creeks.
New Business:

The town has paid for 5 positions to take the Pace Land Use Training coming up in the near future.

Solar Expo: Ilonka will be the coordinator and Rick will coordinate solar PV project. Ilonka will contact vendors, interact with speakers. It was suggested that this is a lengthily discussion and would need separate meetings. Dates confirmed are setup Fri., May 19, and Sat., May 20 for Expo. Manna and Deb will help with promotions First Expo meeting was scheduled for Feb 16.
Joan would like to have liaisons in place to interact with other towns, Deb H. volunteered for New Paltz, Nick M. is for Esopus, Rick V. offered to attend other town Commissions as needed.

Green Disk: Joyce presented info on a company, Green Disk that recycles CDs, pagers, cell phones, DVDs, and PDAs. The program collects 20 lbs.; shipping would be $5.95. Manna will go with Joyce to the Town Transfer Station to check if this is feasible.
Motion to adjourn by Paul L and seconded by Rick V, unanimously approved.
Respectfully submitted,

Ilonka Metsger, REC Clerk

Minutes-Feb 23, 2006
Rosendale Environmental Commission Meeting

Attendance: Vice Chair Nick Mercurio, Joyce Hartsfield, Deb Horowitz, Rick VandenHeuvel, Michael Montella, Paul Lendvay, Ilonka Metsger
Town Board Liaison Manna Jo Greene

Excused: Chair Joan Maylie, Jeannine Cahill

Meeting opened at 7.25 p.m. by Nick M, Vice Chair, presiding.
Previous minutes were reviewed and discussed. Corrections made. Motion to approve by Deb H and seconded by Nick M and unanimously approved.
Nick M has asked members to please read minutes before meeting start time.
Old Business:

Membership - Jeannine Cahill has been approved by the town board as our newest member. This fills our nine membership slots. Guests are always welcome.

Biodiversity Assessment (BAT) - Manna reported that materials are with Tim K and still waiting from Hudsonia on map approvals.

Water Budget - Deb H is continuing efforts to obtain info from the county agency.

Resource Inventory/Open Space/Comprehensive Plan - Nick would like to table these topics due to absence of Joan. Nick stated he would be in contact with David Scherf (county EMC).

Manna offered a brief synopsis of highlights from the recent Association of Towns of NYS annual meeting of information which she found valuable for Rosendale. The Town of Wilton Open Space Plan includes a Recreation Plan for parks, pathways and bicycle paths. They also designated hamlets as areas of planned growth, leaving more open space protected; included historical and cultural resources, agriculturals lands and town, county and school owned open space in their inventory, all mapped on GIS. They established a ration of conservation areas for subdivisions, setting aside 35% of the buildable areas (excluding unsuitable areas: wetlands, steep slopes, etc.). If unbuildable area exceeds 50% of the property, the conservation set aside isreduced to 15%. Their Open Space Plan focused on biodiversity and soils. They plan to do a buildout analysis for 2040 and modify their zoning to conform with their OSP. The Town has received 3 or 4 large parcels as parks and has created a Wildlife Preserve. They have 8 building inspectors and a have set up a special account for implementing their recreation plan by charging a $750 fee for all new construction. Wilton is in the Lake George region.

Paul L, liaison to comprehensive plan committee, reported that no new meetings had been scheduled due to the supervisors illness.
Nick M reported that he approached the planning board about interest in the resource inventory maps. The Planning Board received his explanations with much interest and comments. Nick questioned if our budget can sustain color copies or approach the county for an extra copy. Feedback was that maps should include zoning, road ownership (the town only has 35 miles of road ownership) the others are either state or county owned and identifying areas of Karst and the water district. Possibly with either an overlay or separate mapping.

GIS/Geomatica training. Nick M., spoke with Supervisor Gallagher, regarding the hardware for the geomatica system. It was stated that there was enough grant money available to purchase palm pilots, computers and plotters. Along with a projector and training. Manna suggested that since Nick is learning GIS, that he be the commission member to receive training and then pass his knowledge to other commission members.

Solar Monitoring/Computer Room/Library - Open discussion on the Road Runner Time Warner bill. At present the Environmental Commission is being charged fees for this service to the Recreation Center building. Members are requesting info re: exact fees charged, whether it is business or home account, if a contract was signed, money is taken from the solar or commission account. Since a router was installed, who ordered and paid for this. This issue has been tabled until Rick V. gathers the necessary info.
Rick V had made keys to our computer cabinet. RickV and Nick M are continuing to use the computer to obtain and transmit data to Gay Canough for NYSERDA reports. At present, the commission is seeking a locked cabinet with glass doors for our library. Manna will speak with Ann regarding all the possibilities of future use of this room for the Environmental Commission.

Planning Board - Nick M., liaison to this board, reported of interest on Binnewater Road to subdivide land into two lots. This land is disturbed and SPDES will be needed. Nick M. recommended this application to be on a watch list.
The McColgan land has received a rezoning approval and now can go to the planning board.
The subdivison of 12 units located on Webster Locks Road would like to donate land to the town in lieu of recreation fees. The planning board Chair stated that this application needs a full EIS form.
There has been no declaration on the Aleo property and he has applied for a 6 month extension. Nick M explained the property location on 32 S.
Nick M also reported that Cappy's will be reopening when applications are approved. It will be a restaurant owned by Mark Howell.
IMAR will be constructing a storage shed, Manna has asked for a tour and any interested members may also attend. They have a large parcel of wetlands including a waterway that flows into the Rondout.

Recycling - Joyce H meet with the Rosendale recycling employees regarding the collection of batteries, CDs, and tapes. At present, she is trying to contact the company who will handle these recyclables and obtain collection boxes. Manna will bring this to the Town Board for approval. Manna also used this opportunity to remind us that the county will have two upcoming hazardous waste collection days, April 22 and June 10 from 8am to 1pm. To register call at 336-3336.

Solar Expo - Manna has sent letters to the dignitaries, vendors. Letters and applications are ready to mail. This next meeting will be held on March 9. A flyer was made by Deb H and will be posted at town hall and the towns website. The event , for this year, will be called - going green =saving green. Monies collected from this event possibly will be used for a battery backup system for the Center building. It then can be used as a place for emergencies, such as a power outage etc. Manna also reported that the Town has a grant to purchase a generator for back up power.

Liaison/E - Group with surrounding towns. Members will contact various groups.

Old uncompleted business - Manna reminded members of our concerns regarding the trees surrounding the Center. Peter Landau was going to come and give his professional opinion of what can stay or needs to be cut. Previously tabled. No action taken at this time.

Nick M. presented a mailing from the town to our commission regarding the issue of the IMAR property. The town is requesting to be the lead agency on this SEQRA review. A motion was made was made by Joyce and seconded by Deb to accept/affirm the Town Board of Rosendale as the lead agency in the environmental review of Iron Mountain. Unanimously approved by all.

Next Meeting: At our next meeting on March 23 starting at 6:30 pm we will be sponsoring Karen Schneller MacDonald. Speaking on the Shawangunk Ridge Biodiversity Partnership Green Assets maps with planning implications of habitat information. Other town commissions and or boards will be invited.

Motion to adjourn by Paul L and seconded by Michael M, unanimously approved.

Respectfully submitted,
Ilonka Metsger REC clerk

rec106min.cfm

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Minutes March 23, 2006
Rosendale Environmental Commission

Attendance: Chair Joan Maylie, Deb Horowitz, Nick Mercurio, Rick VandenHeuvel, Ilonka Metsger
Town Board Liaison Manna Jo Greene
Excused: Paul Lendvay, Jeannine Cahill, Joyce Hartsfield
Absent: Michael Montella,

Guest Patricia Tannachion

A 7:30 pm presentation was given by Karen Schneller-McDonald of the Shawangunk Ridge Biodiversity Partnership and Cara Lee from the Nature Conservancy. The discussion centered on GIS mapping, planning implications of biodiversity and other environmental issues. Representatives from Rosendale's Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals and other environmental commissions participated.

Meeting opened at 8:20, by Joan M.
Previous minutes were discussed and reviewed. Corrections made. Motion to approve by Nick M. and seconded by Deb H. and unanimously approved.

Water Budget: Deb H. reported that her contact with Steve Winkley was progressing and he is hopeful that he can focus on Rosendale by June. Joan M. asked Deb H. to ask Steve Winkley to give a presentation when he is ready to report.

Computer Room: Rick V. reported that he spoke with Doris regarding the installation of Road Runner. At this time, these charges are paid by the Solar account. Rick V. is also attempting to contact Dr. Gay Cauough for transmitting data collected by the solar panels. Rick V. is looking into obtaining programs to transmit the data. Also to be discussed is cost sharing for Road Runner charges. Ilonka M. is to speak with Ann Houghtaling and ask if this commission can add a bookcase in this room.

Open Space Inventory: Joan M. has spoken to David Scherf at EMC and updated progress on the resource inventory mapping. Myra S. will be providing some text for these reports. She will work with Deb H. The GIS training for the Town's new Geomatica program will be held in the near future. Nick M.will attend. Joan M. stated that Rosendale's master plan has numerous sections discussing open space. Members discussed a separate committee for open space in the future, it was noted that other towns have successfully encouraged townspeople to participate.

Planning Board: Nick M reported that the on going projects are Iron Mt, Cappys, Webster Locks, and the Aleo project. The latter asked for a 6 month extension.

Recycling: In the absence of Joyce, Board Liaison Manna G. stated the Town Board did authorize the purchase of equipment needed for the green disk program.

New Business:
Guest Patricia T. came to this commission with her concern of burn barrels in the Tillson area. She has called the Fire Marshall on several occasions and warnings have been issued. Patricia T. is most concerned about health related issues about what is being burned in these barrels.

Respectfully submitted,

Ilonka Metsger, Clerk

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Minutes Rosendale Environmental Commission
April 27,2006

Attendance - Present: Chair Joan Maylie, Deb Horowitz, Nick Mercurio, Rick VandenHeuvel, Ilonka Metsger, Paul Lendvay, Joyce Hartsfield, Michael Montella
Town Board Liaison: MannaJo Greene
Guest: Cheryl Schneider, representing an Ad-Hoc committee on computer recycling.

Absent: Jeannine Cahill

Meeting opened at 7:10 pm by Chair Joan M.
Previous minutes were reviewed and discussed. Corrections made. Motion to approve by Paul L. and seconded by Deb H. and unanimously approved.

Old Business:

Water Budget - as previously reported.

Wetlands - Nick M. read an excerpt from Section 140 of the State Penal law which relates to trespassing: Persons who enter or remain on unimproved or apparently unused land which is neither fenced nor otherwise enclosed in a manner designed to exclude intruders does so with license and privilege unless the notice against trespass is personally communicated to him by the owner of such land or other authorized person or unless such notice is given by posting in a conscious manner. Joan added that the Town and REC would not condone trespassing on private property. Nor will the Town provide legal representation for a trespass lawsuit. Discussion followed.

Joan M. reported that Karen Schneller MacDonald is not able to help with delineations of wetlands. Karen suggested that Rick F., whom Joan had already spoken to and who will be on the May agenda of the planning board, explain wetlands and flood plains. Rick F. has extensive field experience with this problem.

Manna Jo G. reported that she had called the DEC expressing wetland delineation concerns. Brian Drumm responded for the DEC that a team is now working in other counties and will eventually reach Ulster. To help facilitate delineation for Rosendale, it was recommended that a letter be sent from the town to the DEC.

Manna Jo is also recommending REC holding a public education seminar sometime in July. DEC has agreed to participate in an educational program about wetlands and flood plains at this time. This may also be of interest to other EMCs. Discussion followed.

Motion made to draft a letter requesting that when the DEC delineates possible additional wetlands in Ulster County, they also look at 60 acres of wetlands listed on the NWI (national wetland inventory) on State Route 32 north of the Wallkill River. It was suggested that the Planning Board refer anyone in town with NWI property to the DEC for guidance. This motion was passed.

Computer Room - Rick V. reported they are still in planning stages of exploring software compatible for transmitting to Dr Gay Canough. Joan reported that the town has an IT person who possibly can help Rick V. and Nick M. set up. Nick M. will be searching for bookcase.

BAT (biodiversity assessment) Deb H. is confirmed to attend training on May 16 thru 18 2006 with Hudsonia.

Open Space - Joan M. presented a draft list of sections for a Rosendale Natural Resources/Open Space Inventory map from David Scherf Environmental GIS specialist working with Geomatica for the Town. Joan will also meet with Dietrich W. for additional information and passed out a map of several historical hamlets within the Town.

Planning Board - Nick M. reported property owned by Mr. Hasenflue on Binnewater Road would need a SPDES permit for over one acre of disturbance. All ongoing projects, Cappy's, Webster Locks, and Aleo, are as previously reported. The Natoili property was mentioned as site possibly in a flood plain and wetlands.

Energy Expo - The committee is working hard to provide diverse vendors for people to enjoy. Confirmations are in progress. A mass mailing will be sent out shortly. Next Expo meeting is May 4 at 6:30 pm.

Recycling â€" Guest was Cheryl Schneider business owner and member of Rosendale Chamber of Commerce. Cheryl is proposing a program to recycle computer hard drives for businesses. At the present time there is no consistent program for this. UCRA is attempting to coordinate recycling in Ulster Co with a town able to oversee this program. It was decided that this would not be feasible for Rosendale at this time. Cheryl was asked to keep the Commission informed when such a program starts up.

Reed bed program - John Jankiewicz, superintendent for the town of Lloyd Water and Sewer Dept., will provide info. Our meeting time will change to 6.30 p.m. Joan M. asked that all members be supportive of these programs

New Business:

Rail Trail - Manna G. reported it is on hold at this time.

Joan M. reported that there is a joint Environmental Commission/Wallkill Valley Watershed management meeting May 3, 7.00pm at New Paltz Town Hall

Joan M. reported she attended a seminar titled Banks and Buffers in Green County. She provided information on native plants, exotics and stream buffers.

Several members of the Town Boards/commissions had a walk thru of the Binnewater Co housing property with a follow up discussion at the recreation center. Site plans have not been finalized and part of the road is through wetlands. Other concerns are fragmentation caused by the clearing of a large forested area.

Comprehensive Plan Meeting on May 2. Paul L., who is our liaison, will attend.

Motion to adjourn made by Paul L. and seconded by Nick M., unanimously approved.

Respectfully submitted,

Ilonka Metsger

Minutes May 23, 2006
Rosendale Environmental Commission

Attendance: Chair Joan Maylie, Deb Horowitz, Nick Mercurio,Joyce Hartsfield, Michael Montella,Ilonka Metsger
Town Board Liaison; Manna Jo Greene
Excused; Paul Lendvay, Jeannine Cahill, Rick VandenHeuvel
Guest; Alex Lines

Program opened with John Jankiewicz, Town of Lloyd Water and Sewer Administrator, who gave an in depth presentation on reed beds and constructed wetlands. The regular REC meeting was opened at 7.45pm by Chair Joan M
Previous minutes were discussed and reviewed. Correction made. Motion to approve by Nick M and seconded by Deb H and unanimously approved.

Old Business
Wetlands-discussion on informational date for wetland education with various agencies being contacted and coordinated by MannaJo. Date tentatively set for next month, when confirmed,and then flyers will be mailed to townspeople. There will also be a need to have some brainstorming meetings to fold flyers and set agenda.
A motion was made by Joyce H that the Environmental Commission make a public service announcement to inform landowners with more than 12.4 acres and designated federal wetlands in the town of Rosendale. Discussion followed on how to send this information.

Computer Room-Ilonka contacted Dr Gay Canough to come to Rosendale for a training session. This training is for collecting data from the solar system to transmit to NYSERDA. When the date is confirmed of her availability, all will be contacted. Nick has found a file cabinet for our usage and will be cleaning it up and painting it.

Open Space; Joan has been in contact with David Scherff. She is also setting up another meeting with him at his office to discuss information and data on Rosendale. When this is confirmed, Joan will inform all members . Deb reported that she will have a meeting with Myra, who is writing the text for Ulster County. Joan spoke with Deitrich about historical matters to map in our town and will continue dialect with him in the coming weeks.

Biodiversity Assessment; Joan has spoken with Karen Schneller who is willing to add her expertise on Hardenburg Park. A habitat assessment of this park can be done by using habitat guidelines , members with some habitat training who are available, to attend a field verification meeting. A short report can then be generated. Once a date is confirmed, Joan will notify members.
Nick has been trained in recognizing the federally endangered Indiana brown bat. He stated these bats are numerous in the caves of Williams Lake and the Snyder Estate. Applicants within a 35mile radius of these areas filling out a environment assessment form should be checking "yes" to having a federal endangered species in the area.

Planning Board; Ongoing projects as previously reported.

MannaJo has asked this commission for support in a moratorium on zoneing changes in the town of Rosendale. Deb H made a motion that the Environmental Commission support the moratorium on zoning changes until such time as the comprehensive plan has been enacted expressing clearly, that we support the ability of landowners to develop within the existing laws and guidelines on zoneing ,variances and special use permits. Joyce H has seconded. Motion moved and carried.

Energy Expo; A great event topped off by the Environmental Commission receiving the "Pride of Ulster County " award. We had 19 vendors attending this year and approximately 300 attendees during the day. Pictures by Nick and a report will be sent to Ann for inclusion on the Town website. Our solar flashlight door prize was a big hit.

New Business;
Joan reported of a trainings, May 31, 6pm on First Forest Growth and June 22 8.30 till4-pm on Aquifer protection at the ski center, Hunter Mt.

Motion to adjourn made by Nick M and seconded by Deb H.

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Minutes of June 22, 2006
Rosendale Environmental Commission

Attendance: Chair Joan Maylie, Deb Horowitz, Nick Mercurio, Rick VandenHeuvel
Town Board Liaison: MannaJo Greene
Excused: Michael Montella, Jeannine Cahill, Joyce Hartsfield, Paul Lendvay, Ilonka Metsger-Lukas

Meeting opened at 7.15 pm Previous minutes were discussed and reviewed. Corrections made. Not voted on for lack of a quorum.

Old Business:
Wetlands- Town wide meeting for education on wetlands confirmed for July 27, 2006 at 7:00 PM. MannaJo G. has confirmed the speakers from various agencies. A tentative date for brain storming/ folding flyers will be on July 5. Nick M. has been speaking with a representative from Ducks Unlimited about doing a presentation. Deb H. will do the press release.

Computer Room- Dr Gay Canough did tech support to facilitate data transmission. The information is now being sent to the proper agencies for the grant fulfillment. These photo voltaic panels, installed last year on the roof of the pavilion, are generating electricity for use in the center. This has been a cost savings in electricity for the Town.

Open Space-Joan M. reported that David Scherff is continuing with the mapping. Deitrich W. has agreed to write the introduction for the historical sites inventory.

Biodiversity Assessment-Joan M. reported that Karen Schneller-McDonald will do a mapping of the Hardenburg Park. She will do a walk through on the property in the coming months.

Planning Board-On going projects as previously reported:
Iron Mountain site has some storm runoff concerns. The Town Board agreed to the zoning change requested by Iron Mountain for their storage facility. New application by AeroStar Petroleum is planned behind Fanns Plaza. Concerns are of water runoff and soil stability. Nick M., our liaison, will forward our concerns to the Planning Board.

New Business:Aquifer and Wellhead Protection information - MannaJo reported from a seminar she attended. Many ideas were offered on water saving, usage and streams. Storm water's effect on our groundwater was also mentioned.

Backyard Wildlife Habitat Program- Lorraine Herschkorn will present components of habitats in relationship to animals on Sept 28 from 6.30 - 7 pm.

Nick M. has agreed to do a presentation on the Indiana Brown Bat, an endangered species, in the near future.

Due to our educational program, the next meeting will be tentatively set for July 28, at 7:00 pm

Minutes of July 26, 2006
Rosendale Environmental Commission

Attendance: Chair, Joan Maylie, Deb Horowitz, Nick Mercurio, Paul Lendvay, Ilonka Metsger, Rick VandenHeuvel
Excused: Joyce Hartsfield, Michael Montella, MannaJo Greene
Guest: Joe Liuni

Meeting opened at 7:10 pm. Previous minutes were reviewed and approved for both the June 22 and May 23, 2006 meetings. Motion to accept both as presented was made by Deb H. and seconded by Paul L, unanimously approved.

Old Business:

A letter of resignation was received from Jeannine Cahill.

Water Budget: Deb H reported that Steve Winkley is now working on Rosendale's Water Budget. Joan M asked Deb H. to find out the status of info to date and report approximately when Steve would be ready to do a presentation in the future.

Solar Data Transfer: Nick M. stated he is transmitting on a monthly basis, usually after our business meetings.

Open Space: Joan M reported that Dave Scherff , our GIS mapper for the National Resource Inventory, is no longer employed by the County EMC. He will continue to complete our project for as long as EMC allows him to do so. Joan M. has given him all the Historical Site data she has collected and researched. She is asking if anyone would volunteer to research the Cultural Sites of Rosendale such as, parks, libraries, churches etc. Ilonka M. has offered to help. Joan M. has supplied the completed Resource Inventory maps of Rosendale to both Nick M. and Michael M. for review.

Planning Board: Nick M reported that he was not able to attend the last meeting. Joan asked Nick M to call Paul L to substitute for him when he is not available.

Biodiversity Assessment: Joan M.reported that she has spoken with Karen Schellner-McDonald to arrange for a field study of Hardenburgh Park. Karen will be able to identify the flora and fauna growing in the Park on the Rondout Creek. Joan M stated she is waiting for MannaJo to return as MannaJo has had previous training and expressed wanting to be a participant.

Programs: Town Board meeting Aug 9, 2006 at 7:00 pm.- stream monitoring presentation by Martha Cheo of Hudson Basin River Watch.
REC meeting on Sept 28 2006 at 6:30 pm - backyard wildlife habitat presentation by Lorraine Herschkorn of the National Wildlife Federation

Joan M is asking Ilonka M to help with next years budget due in September.

REC Vacancy: Joan M. stated that two people have submitted applications. One is Jennifer Metzger and the other Joe Liuni. Joan M had interviewed both applicants, at length, by phone. Jennifer was not able to attend the meeting, but Joe Liuni was present.
The applications information of both candidates were read and Joe Liuni was asked questions by some members of this commission..

Joan M asked Nick M to do a presentation on the Indiana Bat at the Commission's Oct. 26 meeting. Nick M. suggested the program be limited to a regular REC meeting because of the sensitive nature of bat habitat sites.

Motion to adjourn by Paul L. and seconded by Nick M., unanimously approved.

Respectfully Submitted

Ilonka Metsger

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Minutes August 24, 2006

Minutes September 28, 2006

Chair Joan M. welcomed Ed M. as the new member, and introduced Jane Brown, a Blue Stone Press reporter

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Minutes October 26, 2006

Rosendale Commission for the Conservation of the Environment

Attendance: Chair, Joan Maylie, Deb Horowitz, Ed Maestro, Nick Mercurio, Joyce Hartsfield, Paul Lendvay, Rick VandenHeuvel, Ilonka Metsger-Lukas
Excused, Michael Montella
Town Board Liaison: Manna Jo Greene
Volunteer, Jennifer Metzger
Guest, Tara Johannessen

Program started at 7:10 pm with Nick Mercurio giving a very informative presentation on - The Indiana Brown Bat, Protection and Habitat.

Meeting opened at 7:40 pm. Previous minutes were reviewed and discussed. A change was made to the draft version of the Town Board's minutes. The Commission's minutes were changed to reflect that correction.. Motion to accept was made by Paul L. and seconded by Ed M. Minutes unanimously approved.

Old Business:
Progress Reports for:
Water Budget - Deb H. reported that Steve Winkley is confirmed for the next meeting on Nov 30, 2006 at 6:00 pm. Deb will compile a flyer for distribution to our Town Board, other EMCs, and Planning Board. Manna Jo G. has offered to email to various interested commissions and boards.

Wetlands - Nick M. is concerned about a newly constructed house built very near swampy land. He took pictures to show the standing water and hoses draining water away from this house. These pictures were taken from where Springtown Road intersects with River Road. On maps there is a federal wetland ajoining this property. Discussion followed of how and why someone would build/live on land that is wet or in a floodplain.

Solar Data Transmission - Nick M. reported that this data was downloaded on a CD and mailed to Dr Gay C. Meter readings were included. Once all this data is processed as defined in the Solar Power contract, we should receive the final grant monies owed. Manna Jo has requested Ilonka M. to followup with Dr Gay C. and NYSERDA.
Nick M.has also installed and painted our new file cabinet.

Open Space - Joan M. reported that the NRI maps that were expected will be delayed. The county EMC has not yet hired a new GIS specialist to continue this mapping.
Karen Schneller-McDonald made another site visit on the Hardenburgh Park land and should be able to complete this study in the near future.

Recycling - Joyce H. reported that Renee at the recycling center would like used CD, Tapes etc. recycled for free. Joyce would still like to see the Green Disk program become available if this does not happen. The cost is about $29.95 for 20 lbs. including shipping.

Planning Board - Nick M. reported on the Hasenflue property on Binnewater Road, north of Iron Mountain. It is not yet finalized and needs a larger right of way for a driveway. Chip and Dale site is ongoing as previously reported. Other site plans were tabled for review at our next meeting.

Manna Jo G. has requested this commission review a zoning change to light industrial for the Natoli property. All changes conform to the Corp of Engineers requirements and he has graded this land. Mr. Natoli would like to place storage sheds on the site, and this change will effect several other nearby property owners. He has come before the Town Board asking for this change and they have voted to send this to the Planning Board. Nick M.showed pictures of portions of this property that are on the floodplain and federal wetlands. Manna Jo G. would like to see a conservation easement. Discussion followed. Nick M. and Deb H. will attend the next Planning Board meeting.

New Business:
Fundraisers - Joan M. gave a brief history of our energy expo the last two years. She would like to see some new ideas for fundraising projects because other environmental organizations are doing what we have done in the past. Ed M said he goes to trade shows and mentioned there is an interest in green building. He would like to see more vendors and knows people who come from great distances to find out what is new in the green industry. Joan M. would like have representatives provide the forms and help for collecting rebates when green products are used. Manna Jo G. suggested giving green building house tours for a fee; either using a bus or a self drive map. Many new ideas were offered. Joan M. asked Ed M. to be chairperson.
Jennifer M. wanted to know if Earth Day (April 22,2007) would be available for next year's fundraiser and suggested we might provide music and entertainment to bring in more people.

REC name change - Joan M. checked the original charter and found the Commission's original name is the Town of Rosendale Commission for Conservation of the Environment, or RCCE. It will now be known as such, and stationary will be printed as needed.

Joan M. introduced our guest Tara Johannesson who voiced concerns regarding the rail trail near the Iron Mountain entrance. She noted a large opening in the rock filled with garbage and discarded tires, glass, furniture etc. Tara asked whom to call and report this. A few members were aware of the problem and suggested calling the code inspector. Tara asked if the Town would be acquiring the rail trail south of the rail bridge. At this time it is privately owned and volunteers help to clean it up.

Motion to adjourn by Paul L. and seconded by Nick M; unanimously approved.

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Minutes November 30, 2006

Rosendale Commission for the Conservation of the Environment

Attendance: Acting Chair Deb Horowitz, Ed Maestro, Nick Mercurio, Paul Lendvay, Ilonka Metsger-Lukas, Rick VandenHeavel
Excused: Joan Maylie, Joyce Harstfield
Absent: Michael Montella
Town Board Liaison: Manna Jo GreeneVolunteers: Jennifer Metzger, Joe Liuni
Guest: Jill Gruber, Director of Hudson Valley Materials Exchanges

Previous minutes were reviewed, discussed and corrections made. A motion to accept was made by Ed M., seconded by Paul L. and unanimously approved.

Acting Chair Deb H. asked our guest to speak first in consideration of the distance she had to travel. Ed M. introduced Jill Gruber, Director of Hudson Valley Materials Exchange (HVME), to this commission to explain a possible partnership with RCCE in an upcoming grant application. HVME is a non-profit community warehouse located at Stewart International Airport, bldg #404. This organization provides used/surplus materials to the public. HVME also informs the public of ways to consolidate waste and to reuse as many materials as possible. This is done through programs in schools, townships, etc. To support these conservation measures in the Town of Rosendale, a grant written by Jill G. would establish a partnership with this Commission. She is asking for a letter of support for this grant. Discussion followed with pros and cons for such a partnership. At this time, Ed M. made a motion that the RCCE send a letter of support, pending Town Board approval, for this partnership. Motion unanimously approved.

Old Business:
Solar Data Transmission - Nick M. reported that the computer was turned off. This is a problem since RCCE is responsible for data collection and transmission to Albany.

Open Space: Joan had reported to Deb that former county employee David Scherf has turned over the entire NRI mapping done for the RCCE to Rick Fritschler’s office and that she is in contact with Rick to obtain a copy.
Biodiversity Assessment: The Hardenburg Park area study should be finalized by the end of the year. Manna Jo reported the BAT is now in the hands of Hudsonia and is awaiting approval.
Recycling: Tabled
Fundraisers: Ed M. spoke about obtaining dates for next year’s Expo, possibly near Earth Day, April 21, and a backup date in May. Many options were discussed for some outdoor activities, including music venues.

Membership: Forms for reappointment were handed out to be returned to town hall for the ensuing year’s appointments.
Planning Board: A major subdivision on Bruceville Rd and The Natoli property are still before this board and the Planning Board. Nick M. presented copies of an environmental impact form on the Natoli property located on Rt. 32 S. This document was reviewed and discussed. A motion was made to allow Nick M. to express the environmental concerns of this Commission (RCCE) regarding the Natoli properties and present them to the Town Board.

Motion to adjourn by Paul L. and seconded by Ed M.

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