Montour Falls village board 11/7/11

    Meeting:  The Montour Falls village board met Monday, Nov. 7, for one hour and 45 minutes.
    Attendance:  Ellen Mathers was the only board member absent.  There was one member of the public in the audience.
    Action:  Superintendent of Public Works Dean Hillyard was allowed to use some of the $6,500 raised from the sale of scrap metal to purchase new tools.
    Discussion without action:  Mayor John King said the village needs to do a better job at informing the public about the Gateway Project.  He explained that only two members of the public attended the last open meeting on the Main Street improvement project.  He said construction is expected to begin in April of next year.
    • The board discussed getting police or security for the village.  King said he wanted to start by having an officer at the  evening court session held on the first Monday of the month.  Trustee Jim Howell said County Legislator Phil Barnes suggested someone from Montour Falls attend meetings between the county and the village of Watkins Glen about shared services.
    • King said the village received a request from Mercy Flight for a $1,000 donation.  Board Member Jim Ryan said he was against making any contribution.
    • The board discussed what sort of lighting should be used at the Falls Park.  King said they need to install something that will not be easily vandalized.
    • Howell said future Harvest Festivals are in danger if they do not get more support or volunteers.
Bids/purchases over $1,000:  None.
    Appointments/resignations:  Steve LoPresti’s resignation from the planning board was approved.
    Upcoming meetings:  The next village board meeting will be Monday, Nov. 21, starting at 7 p.m.