The Clifton Park Town Board took another step toward cutting the checks for the planned $150 tax rebate to all households in Clifton Park at the Monday, June 18, town board meeting.
The board approved a resolution to seek a Home Rule Message to the state Legislature, to give the town authorization to make the tax relief payments later this year. The state Assembly passed the bill on Friday, June 22.
The town board passed the resolution with Barrett, councilwoman Lynda Walowit and councilman Tom Paolucci in support of the measure. Councilman Sandy Roth abstained, and Scott Hughes was absent.
Clifton Park resident Norm Goldman said he was concerned about the language in the Home Rule Message sent to the state legislature.
Until tonight, the only thing we heard was that you’re going to give a flat $150 rebate to each resident and each apartment, and now it says ‘up to’ $150, Goldman said. `It was mentioned that it could be $149.50 or $149. Could it be $120?`
Barrett said that the board didn’t expect any changes to the plan, and that the language was recommended by town Attorney Tom McCarthy.
Also at the meeting, the board approved a planner position at a salary of $35,000 to $37,000.
Kate Maynard, the town’s planning director, said she has already received interest in the position from eight or nine applicants.
`We’re a very busy department,` Maynard said. `[We’re] looking at a way to not only suit the current ongoing duties which are not going away but also be able to add an entry-level planner function.`
Margaret Catellier, a Democrat running for town board this fall, praised the board’s action.
`I am really glad that you’re giving the planning department help,` Catellier said. `Everyone gets the projects through more easily and efficiently, and I think it makes the residents a lot happier too.`
Also at the meeting, Eagle Scout Christian Shay Silvia was recognized for his work with North Country Wild Care, a group that rescues and rehabilitates animals. Christian, 16, built animal cages of various sizes.
The next town board meeting is on Monday, July 2, at 7 p.m.“
