|
Trustees Corner
by Frank Libordi
As the holidays move closer, and with the end of 2009 just around
the corner, the village will begin to take stock of its wants and
needs. There is a huge difference between those points. Recently the
village purchased a mini-excavator. I voted against that. Having
called each village (and many towns) in Steuben county and finding
none with a mini, I could not justify the expense. The village is
now considering the purchase of a vacuum for the storm sewers, etc.
This is a piece of equipment that the village does need. But
can the Village afford it? The cost of the Fire hall although
warranted, is a financial burden. Lowes PILOT money is neither
infinite in amount nor perpetual in duration. If the PILOT were to
end, local taxes would finance the entire project. The current
national, state, and local economies suggests that the Village err
on the side of fiscal conservatism. Surplus money, that which no
government should have, should be returned to taxpayers to reduce
their Village tax rate.
During the November 9, 2009 meeting a village comprehensive plan was
discussed. Most villages, towns, and cities should have one in
place. North Hornell currently does not. A plan will give your
governing board direction on planning future growth: how our village
is to be maintained and preserved. It is also essential to
demonstrate vision via a comprehensive plan as a prerequisite for
any grants pursued that could be attained.
There are several residents of the Village that have been, are or
will be charged for more that one water service by the City of
Hornell with out proper justification. This number appears to be
growing. The Village has not been contacted by the City mayor to
review the water contract as was previously mentioned months ago.
The cardinal rule for water rates in the village and everywhere)
should be "one meter, one bill".
At this time, I would like to wish all Village residents a Merry
Christmas and a Happy and healthy New Year!
|
