Last month, I traveled to Washington, D.C., with Citizens’ Climate Lobby to join hundreds of Americans from across the country in meetings with members of Congress and their staff.
During CCL’s Conference and Lobby Day on Capitol Hill, I met with the office of Congresswoman Claudia Tenney and other members of Congress around the state to discuss policies that can strengthen America’s energy future while addressing the challenges of climate change.
As a lifelong Republican who lives on a farm in a rural farming community, I understand how closely our livelihoods are tied to the natural world. Farmers know that stewardship is a responsibility and that taking care of our land, water, and air is something that should unite us, not divide us.
I encouraged Congress to support permitting reform that makes it easier to build the infrastructure our country needs for cleaner, more efficient and affordable domestic energy. Efficient permitting processes can help unlock investment, create jobs, and improve our energy security. I also support market-based policies that ensure American businesses can compete fairly while encouraging innovation and cleaner production.
As a Republican and a member of Citizens’ Climate Lobby, I believe in the Republican conservation tradition championed by Theodore Roosevelt and Richard Nixon. Conservation, innovation, and free enterprise are not competing ideas—they are complementary strengths that can help America build a stronger economy while protecting the resources that sustain us. That’s the message I was proud to bring to Capitol Hill.
Provided photos: Orleans County Sheriff’s Deputy Angel Cruz Cruz, an Albion graduate, has graduated from the Niagara County Law Enforcement Training Academy. He is shown at right with Chief Deputy Torry Tooley and Orleans County Sheriff Chris Bourke.
Press Release, Orleans County Sheriff’s Office
Sheriff Christopher M. Bourke is pleased to announce that Deputy Angel Cruz Cruz graduated from the Niagara County Law Enforcement Training Academy on July 31.
Deputy Cruz Cruz will continue the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office’s comprehensive Field Training Program, where he will work alongside experienced Field Training Officers as he continues his transition into patrol operations.
Sheriff Bourke extends his appreciation to Sheriff Michael J. Filicetti, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, and the Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy for their continued partnership in training and preparing the next generation of Orleans County Deputy Sheriffs.
It was encouraging to interact with so many people who “get it” at the Orleans County 4-H Fair recently. While serving at the Orleans Bluebird Society booth, I encountered many folks who had stories to tell about orioles, pileated woodpeckers, bluebirds, native sparrows, rose-breasted grosbeaks, cedar waxwings and numerous others.
People from as far away as Dallas and Houston had stories to tell about the reality of climate change. One guy told me it was over 102 degrees and 98 percent humidity in Houston as we spoke.
The Orleans County Federation of outdoor sports clubs had the conservation cabin all decked out. And that black bear was something to see—and be seen with.
Thanks to folks such as Mike Elam for another job well done. And kudos to his wife Krys for being so supportive of his efforts.
Reception planned for Saturday to celebrate Betty Sue Miller and welcome Haibach
File photos by Tom Rivers: Hoag Library staff met two young patrons by an ox statue on March 17, 2025 when the library celebrated its 125th anniversary in the community. Brothers Mikey Madison, 11, in blue shirt and Timmy Madison, 8, were happy to try some of the cookies given out for the library birthday. The staff pictured include, from left: Michael Magnuson, Adult Services librarian; Betty Sue Miller, director; and Elizabeth Haibach, assistant director.
Press Release, Hoag Library
ALBION – The Board of Trustees of Hoag Library of Albion announce the retirement of Director Betty Sue Miller, effective August 7, after more than a decade of distinguished service.
Miller will be succeeded by Elizabeth Archer Haibach, who is being promoted from her role as assistant director.
Since joining Hoag Library as an interim director in February 2015, then becoming director, Miller has been instrumental in strengthening the library’s role as a vital community resource. Her dedication to public library service has earned recognition across the region: in May 2025, Miller received the Outstanding Service Award from the Nioga Library System, recognizing her exceptional leadership and dedication to public library service across Niagara, Orleans, and Genesee counties. In 2021, she was honored with a Genean Award from GO ART!, further testament to her commitment to the community.
A 1970 graduate of Albion High School, Miller brought both deep community roots and professional expertise to the role. She holds a Master’s degree in Library Science and has a rich background in library service, including teaching in Albion schools and serving as a librarian at Holley High School. A lifelong Albion resident, Miller and her husband, Fred—a county legislator and former owner of Family Hardware—have two adult children and have been integral members of the community.
Betty Sue Miller gives blood on Dec. 17, 2022 during a blood drive at the library. Miller has welcomed blood drives and many other programs into the library.
After taking a few weeks to rest and recharge, Miller will return to Hoag Library in a part-time capacity, focusing on special projects that will help shape the library’s future. This transition allows the library to benefit from her continued expertise while giving her the opportunity to step back from daily operations.
Elizabeth Archer Haibach brings enthusiasm and a passion for public service to her new role as Director. Born in Albion, Elizabeth spent part of her childhood living in Mexico and Central America before returning to Orleans County. A proud graduate of Albion Central School’s Class of 2006, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from SUNY Brockport and a Master of Library Science from the University at Buffalo.
Elizabeth’s family has deep roots in the community, including her grandparents’ longtime businesses, Archer Lumber and Barre Animal Hospital. Before beginning her library career, she worked as a Program Assistant for Agri-Business Child Development at Batavia.
She joined Hoag Library as the Reference Librarian and was later promoted to Assistant Director. Outside of the library, Elizabeth enjoys reading historical nonfiction, exploring local history, and is an active member of the Orleans Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution. On sunny days, she can often be found behind the wheel of her ’68 Dodge Super Bee. She is honored to serve the community she has always called home and looks forward to building on Hoag Library’s tradition of exceptional service, lifelong learning, and community engagement.
Hoag Library director Betty Sue Miller, back left, and assistant director Elizabeth Haibach meet with the board of trustees following the annual meeting at the library on May 6, 2024. They shared data from 2023 that showed total circulation for books and non-books was 42,898 – with 32,323 books and 10,575 non-books.
“Betty Sue Miller’s retirement marks the end of an extraordinary era of leadership at Hoag Library,” said Linda Weller, Board President of Hoag Library of Albion. “Her vision, dedication, and deep commitment to our community have transformed the library into a thriving hub for learning, growth, and connection. We are deeply grateful for her service. At the same time, we are excited about the future under Elizabeth’s leadership. Elizabeth brings fresh energy, community ties, and a genuine passion for library service. We are confident that she will honor Betty Sue’s legacy while bringing her own innovative ideas and talents to the role.”
Haibach officially assumes the role of director on Aug. 8. The transition represents both continuity of the library’s mission and an exciting new chapter for Hoag Library of Albion.
The community is invited to celebrate Betty Sue Miller’s remarkable career and welcome Elizabeth Haibach as the new director at a reception on Saturday, Aug. 8, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hoag Library. Light refreshments will be served. No RSVP is required—everyone is welcome to stop by.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 August 2026 at 11:22 am
ALBION – A Medina man pleaded guilty in Orleans County Court this morning to criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree.
Milton Hinckley IV, 32, admitted to having cocaine on Jan. 23 when he was stopped in a vehicle in Medina by the Medina Police Department. The cocaine weighed 1.07 ounces.
Hinckley faced other drug and traffic charges, including aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. His plea in County Court today satisfies all charges against him.
He could face up to 2 years in state prison when he is sentenced on Sept. 30.
In another case today in County Court, a Newfane man facing several charges, including first-degree arson, appeared on a bail hearing.
Marquis Harrell, 22, allegedly went to the mother of his children’s residence in Albion early Saturday and threw a Molotov cocktail at the home, causing charring and siding damage, said Daniel Punch, assistant district attorney.
Harrell also faces charges of criminal mischief in the first degree, four counts of reckless endangerment in the first degree, two counts of endangering the welfare, criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, and two counts of criminal contempt.
Harrell is represented by public defender Joanne Best. She said Harrell may likely have been “overcharged” in the case with first-degree arson.
“Is there sufficient evidence to charge him with what is alleged?” Best said in court today.
Punch said there are threatening text messages from Harrell to the victim and photos showing the damage to the residence.
Even if the charge was attempted arson, Punch said that is a serious enough charge to hold Harrell on bail.
Best asked that Harrell be released on his own recognizance without being held on bail.
Punch acknowledged Harrell has a limited criminal history but also faces a pending criminal mischief charge in Royalton. Punch asked the judge to set bail at $10,000 cash. Judge Sanford Church agreed to that amount of cash bail, or $20,000 bond or $50,000 partially secured bond.
The judge also is continuing orders of protection for the victims of the alleged crime.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 August 2026 at 8:24 am
Photos by Tom Rivers
MEDINA – Medina firefighters Brian Bates (left), a paramedic/firefighter, and Lt. Jake Crooks hand out plastic firefighter helmets to kids at the National Night Out on Tuesday outside the Clifford Wise Intermediate School. Medina firefighters also gave bags with fire prevention tips for kids.
Medina hosted the National Night Out for the fifth time on Tuesday, and drew several hundred people. First responders and agencies from throughout the county were there to run activities and answer questions from residents.
Paul Urquart, a Medina firefighter, helps Jace Boyle, 10, of Medina aim a fire hose at a target.
Mila McAdoo, 4, of Medina throws a ball at the dunk tank target. She was able to get Shawn Ramsey, owner of Canalside Tattoo Company, to plunge into the water.
Christy Gross, who works at a salon at the Walmart in Albion, gives Blair, age 5, a haircut. Gross offered free haircuts during National Night Out.
Orleans County Sheriff’s deputy Jeff Cole and Odin, the department’s K9, did demonstrations during NNO. Odin has been trained and is certified for drug detection, tracking and searches.
Sherrie Bensley, public health educator for GO Health, serves pizza that was donated by Mark’s Pizzeria. Mark’s donated 20 sheet pizzas for the event.
Bensley was co-chair of the NNO Committee with Diana Fulcomer of UConnectCare. Other committee members include Alishia Foss and Taryn Moyle of Community Action, Jess Marciano of the Village of Medina, and Danielle Figura of the Orleans County Mental Health Department.
Bensley said National Night Out builds connections in the community.
“I think it’s very important for our youth to see our first responders in action and form a relationship,” she said. “They see they are the good guys.”
Taryn Moyle, Alishia Foss and Danielle Figura were busy serving pizza donated by Mark’s. The pizza was a change from previous years when hot dogs were given out for free.
This kid fires a fastball at the dunk tank target, trying to get Shawn Ramsey wet.
Fire departments and law enforcement agencies gave people a chance to see equipment up close.
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 5 August 2026 at 6:18 am
Coming up with a HUGE victory, the No. 6 seed Medina Mustangs FC upset top seeded Buffalo Italia FC 1-0 in the semifinal round of the Buffalo District Soccer League championship Division playoffs Tuesday evening at Buffalo State.
Jameson Eisenhauer scored the lone goal for Medina off a quick corner kick by Cole Callard with less than five minutes to go in the first half.
The Mustangs defense anchored by Tyler Ribbbeck in goal did the rest. Ribbeck made a huge save with five minutes to go in the second half to preserve the narrow upset victory.
The defensive stalworts also included Caleb Suckow and Zak Rowekamp who both played a full 90 minutes at center back.
Medina will now face the winner of today’s semifinal between No. 2 Ukraine and No. 5 Sporting Cavs in the playoff championship game on Sunday at 4:45 p.m. at Nichols School in Buffalo.
Medina improves to 6-4-2 while Buffalo Italia finishes the season at 9-1-1.
The Mustangs also tied with Buffalo Italia 2-2 in the regular season finale.
UB professors to turn former concrete plant into site with focus on state’s history, biodiversity and agriculture
Photos by Douglas Levere/University at Buffalo – The public greenspace initiative in Medina will be located along the Erie Canal, north of the Glenwood Avenue bridge and the Big Apple sculpture.
By Laurie Kaiser, News Content Director at University at Buffalo
MEDINA – Two University at Buffalo professors are leading a public ecological project in Medina, which will honor the agricultural, cultural and economic history of Western New York.
Joyce Hwang, FAIA, professor of architecture in the School of Architecture and Planning, and Mishuana Goeman, PhD, professor and chair of the Department of Indigenous Studies, have received a $195,000 grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to plan a public space on land owned by New York State.
It will involve a cultural and biological history of the site, particularly connected to apples and other native fruits, and will feature public art in the form of hybrid trees, created by renowned artist Sam Van Aken, MFA, associate professor of art at Syracuse University.
“The project aims to create a public landscape and living archive that focuses on the crucial role that apples have played in New York’s transformation through a long engagement in Haudenosaunee history, colonization, immigration and commerce,” Hwang says. “As one of the most diverse fruit-growing states, New York has historically become the home to hundreds of apple varieties, many of which have been lost due to industrialization, monoculture farming and changing market demands.”
The project highlights the state’s agricultural history, notes Hwang, who has been developing a series of projects that incorporate wildlife habitats into constructed environments over the past two decades.
“When we began our initial discussion,” Hwang says, “I was thinking that if we’re going to be talking about the state’s agricultural history, we have to include the Department of Indigenous Studies.”
The public landscape will be built on two acres located along the Erie Canal that is close to the Tonawanda Band of Seneca Nation. Once home to a concrete plant, the space is adjacent to a larger capital project that the New York Power Authority (NYPA) is undertaking to renovate the Empire State Trail, adding accessible walkways and bike paths along the canal.
This summer Goeman and Hwang are meeting with community shareholders in Medina, as well as NYPA and the New York State Canal Corporation (NYSCC). Other UB collaborators include Christopher Romano, AIA, assistant professor of architecture, Alissa Ujie Diamond, PhD, assistant professor of urban and regional planning, and Jason Corwin, PhD, clinical assistant professor of indigenous studies.
Goeman, who has connections through patrilineal descent with Tonawanda Band of Seneca, says this location has so much potential as an important intersection between Medina, which is the widest spot on the Erie Canal, and the reservation.
“I really believe in a project of land solidarity and creating more solidarity practices within Medina by incorporating local Indigenous voices and histories that often are not told in this particular area,” Goeman explains.
In 1779, a military campaign led by Gen. John Sullivan during the American Revolutionary War, burned down all the orchards and corn fields that were attached to the villages of the Haudenosaunee (also known as Iroquois).
As European agricultural practice took root in the following decades, apples became a cornerstone of New York’s economy, with hundreds of apple varieties available by the early 20th century. Industrial practices in more recent years have reduced the number of commercially available varieties to only a few dozen.
The project seeks to address these challenges by serving as a living archive of the state’s rich apple heritage, reintroducing heirloom and antique varieties that once flourished across the region and tracing patterns of migration, settlement, colonialism and biodiversity. One of the project’s goals is to use multigrafting techniques explored by Van Aken, who created the Tree of 40 Fruits. This is a horticultural technique where multiple varieties of fruit are grafted onto a single root system.
“Through conversations and archival research, we aim to compile a historical narrative for the site that can serve as a guiding document for the design of the park’s interpretive elements, such as signage, and selection of plantings and tree species going forward,” Hwang says.
For additional information, the UB team is meeting with representatives from the Buffalo History Museum, the Erie Canal Museum, the Medina Historical Society, the village of Medina and the Tonawanda Reservation Historical Society and preparing an archival narrative to present during a meeting with all the shareholders in the fall.
An enormous part of the work this summer, Hwang says, is analyzing the site itself. When the time comes, the team intends to co-design the space in collaboration with the shareholders in Medina.
“Ultimately, we’re interested in creating a place where everyone can feel welcome,” Hwang says. “I think it’s important that it reflect not just the history of the Erie Canal that most of us know, but also the hidden histories that need to be included.”
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced increased grants through New York’s Clean Vessel Assistance Program. This additional funding will help marinas and municipalities affordably install and upgrade boat sewage pump-outs that reduce pollution and protect the water quality that supports recreation, tourism, fisheries and coastal ecosystems.
The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) has awarded $14 million to projects across New York since the program’s inception, supporting one of the nation’s most extensive recreational boating pump-out networks. Boaters can locate facilities using EFC’s online map, making it easy to find nearby services and responsibly dispose of onboard waste.
The map lists three pump-out stations in Orleans County: Medina Canal Basin, Holley at East Avenue along the canal, and the Bald Eagle Marina in Kendall at Lakeland Beach Road.
“New York’s waterways are among some of our greatest assets, and protecting them requires investment and partnerships,” Governor Hochul said. “This funding will help marinas strengthen the waterfront infrastructure that keeps sewage out of our bays, protects marine habitats, and preserves the clean water that communities depend on.”
Available funding has increased to as much as $80,000 for pump-out boats and $40,000 for stationary facilities and upgrades, along with continued support for facility operations, maintenance and public education. The increased funding reflects Governor Hochul’s goal of making clean water infrastructure improvements more affordable.
Pump-out stations may be small pieces of infrastructure, but they have an outsized impact on water quality by giving boaters a simple, convenient way to dispose of onboard sewage. Most of New York State’s coastal waters and connecting waterways are No Discharge Zones, where it is illegal to discharge treated or untreated sewage from boats.
Increased awards will help marinas continue to install new pump-out stations, modernize aging equipment, purchase pump-out boats and maintain existing facilities.
Marina owners, municipalities and eligible nonprofit organizations are encouraged to apply for grants. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Go to EFC’s website for eligibility requirements, application materials and the Statewide facility map.
The Clean Vessel Assistance Program is funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, which is supported by purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels.
ALBION – The Village of Albion is inviting residents to participate in an upcoming Comprehensive Planning Workshop on August 19th from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Hoag Library (Kirby Room), 134 S. Main St.
Representatives from the village will be there from 5 to 8 p.m. to answer questions before and after the meeting.
This workshop is an important opportunity for Albion’s residents to share ideas, concerns, and priorities that will help shape the Village’s Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive
Plan serves as a long-term roadmap guiding decisions about economic development, infrastructure, land use, and community growth.
Village officials are specifically seeking feedback from residents about:
Public safety
Parks and recreation
Opportunities for revitalization and economic development
Public infrastructure and code/zoning
Ideas to strengthen Albion’s downtown and commercial areas
Input gathered during this session will directly inform the goals and strategies included in the Comprehensive Plan. The Village encourages all residents, including homeowners and renters, to attend and help shape Albion’s future.
“This is a valuable chance for residents to have a voice in planning for the future of Albion,” said Jay Grasso, president of G & G Municipal Consulting and Grant Writing, which is assisting Albion with the updated plan. “Your insight is critical to creating a plan that supports the needs of village residents.”
No registration is required. For more information, contact Jay Grasso at contact@ggprocess.com.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 4 August 2026 at 1:45 pm
Assemblyman says Orleans ‘has played a vital role in shaping the economic, agricultural, and civic life of New York State and the nation’
Photo by Tom Rivers
ALBION – State Assemblyman Steve Hawley last week presented a formal proclamation to the Orleans County legislature in honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Pictured form left include Assemblyman Hawley, County Chief Administrative Officer Jack Welch, County Historian Catherine Cooper and Legislature Chairwoman Lynne Johnson.
Orleans County was established in 1825 and is situated along the historic corridor of the Erie Canal and the shores of Lake Ontario, the proclamation notes.
The county “has played a vital role in agricultural and civic life in New York State and the nation,” Hawley states in the proclamation. “Generations of residents of Orleans County have answered the call of service, contributing to the defense of our freedoms in every major conflict in American history and continuing to uphold the values of patriotism, sacrifice, and duty that define our nation.”
He also praises the Orleans County’s “rich agricultural heritage that has helped feed New York State and beyond, strengthening local economies while preserving the traditions of hard work, stewardship of the land, and community resilience that remain central to the American identity.”
Orleans County’s towns and villages also have long embodied the spirit of American self-government through strong local leadership, civic engagement, volunteerism, and a commitment to preserving history while preparing future generations for success, Hawley said.
“As the nation reflects on 250 years of progress, challenges, and shared achievement, Orleans County stands as a testament to the strength of small communities in shaping the broader story of New York State and the United States of America,” Hawley states in the proclamation.
He also presented a 250th anniversary proclamation to the Genesee County Legislature and will be presenting one to Monroe County officials on Aug. 14 at the Town of Clarkson’s Good Neighbor Day.
ALBION – The Albion Police Department is pleased to report that 17-year-old Alexandria M. Ledger, who had previously been reported missing, has been located safely in Niagara Falls, New York.
The successful outcome of this investigation was made possible through a collaborative effort involving law enforcement, technology, and investigative resources. Officers were able to utilize information provided through Snapchat, which helped establish Alexandria’s last known location.
In addition, officers obtained an image from Walmart in Lockport of the vehicle Alexandria was observed entering. That information, combined with the Flock Safety camera system, enabled officers to identify and track the vehicle, ultimately leading to Alexandria’s safe location in Niagara Falls.
Officer Daniel Baase, who is currently serving in an investigator role on a trial basis, was the lead investigator assigned to the case. Throughout the investigation, Officer Baase conducted extensive investigative work, coordinating with numerous law enforcement partners, including the Niagara Intelligence & Crime Analysis Center (NICAC). By leveraging available technology, intelligence resources, and interagency cooperation, Officer Baase was able to develop critical investigative leads that ultimately resulted in Alexandria being located safely.
The Albion Police Department would like to thank the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office, Niagara Falls Police Department, the Niagara Intelligence & Crime Analysis Center, our law enforcement partners, the media, and the members of the public who shared information and assisted throughout the investigation. We also appreciate Snapchat and Walmart’s cooperation in providing information that proved valuable to the investigation.
At this time, no further information will be released out of respect for Alexandria’s privacy.
The Albion Police Department is grateful for the community’s support and asks that everyone continue to respect the privacy of Alexandria and her family as they move forward.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 4 August 2026 at 10:39 am
POINT BREEZE – The previous owner of the Black North Inn said she will honor gift certificates from the eight years she owned the restaurant.
Kristin Rowell closed the business in Jan. 11, 2026. She will cover the remaining balance on the Black North VIP, Gold with a Bow, and Beach Scene gift certificates. (The Black North has recently reopened under a new owner.)
If you have one of the gift cards listed above, please mail the original gift card to:
P.O. Box 4, Hamlin, NY 14464
Please include your name, mailing address, phone number, and, if possible, a brief note indicating the remaining balance on the gift card.
“Please allow approximately 8 to 12 weeks for processing after we receive your gift card,” Rowell said. “Payment will be issued in the form of a certified check and mailed to the address you provide. We sincerely appreciate your patience, understanding, and cooperation during this difficult situation.”
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 4 August 2026 at 9:36 am
Some residents say tower fall zone at water treatment plant includes private access road
Photo by Tom Rivers
CARLTON – Rick Stacey on Monday tells the Carlton Planning Board his shares his concerns about a new 150-foot-high tower that is planned on land by the Village of Albion Water Treatment Plant on Wilson Road in Carlton. From left include Planning Board members Valerie Beam, Robert VanWuyckhuyse, Chairman Bill Quaranto, secretary Brenda Mufford and member David Warren.
Stacey said neighbors weren’t notified of the project, and the fall zone for the tower cuts across a private access road for Oak Orchard on the Lake.
Contractors are already on site working on the project, and have used private land without permission to access the site, Stacey said.
The Town of Carlton Planning Board on Monday approved a revised site plan that now uses the driveway for the Village of Albion Water Treatment Plant as the access road. The board approved a special use permit, too. The rest of the project hasn’t been changed from the site plan approved on April 1 by the Carlton Planning Board.
The tower is part of a $11,216,500 contract from North Shore Networks LLC in Medina to implement the faster internet service. The county in November 2024 was awarded a $11,562,698 state grant to upgrade wireless internet service throughout the county.
The funding came through the Empire State Development’s ConnectALL Municipal Infrastructure Program. This will allow the county to increase wireless internet speeds from the current 25 Mega Bit Per Seconds (Mbps) to 100 (Mbps).
There are currently 19 towers for the high-speed internet system. There are new towers planned for Carlton and Ridgeway, as well as equipment to go on a grain silo in Clarendon.
Stacey, however, said the Carlton site is on a village-owned property that doesn’t allow a fall zone without going onto neighboring private property. He addressed the board on Monday, sharing concerns from four other property owners as well – David Coleman, Gary and Ruth Smith, Steve Nesbitt, and Brett and Arora Browning.
He asked the Carlton Planning Board to order an immediate stop work order on the construction, saying it’s a clear violation of the 1 ½ times fall zone violation.
Stacey said there is a 34-foot survey boundary discrepancy that puts the fall zone on private property. He asked for the town attorney to initiate an independent review of the survey discrepancy. He also said the town faces legal exposure because code enforcement officer Kevin Sheehan lacked the certification to approve the project. Sheehan also has a conflict of interest as a trustee for the Village of Albion, which owns the land and the water treatment plant, Stacey said.
He requested the full public record for all Carlton building permits, environmental reviews for the project and the precise grant application layout that was submitted to the state.
Planning Board Chairman Bill Quaranto said Monday’s meeting wasn’t a public hearing. He gave Stacey five minutes to present his comments, but stopped him after five minutes.
When the board went through a lengthy resolution to approve the project with a revised plan for the access road, Stacey interjected there were legitimate safety concerns for residents. If the tower falls, it could block the access road for Oak Orchard on the Lake, Stacey said.
Town Attorney Bridget O’Toole warned him more than once to refrain from making further comments because it wasn’t a public hearing.
Stacey, after the meeting, said he intends to file an injunction and seek to have the project stopped at the current location. He said there other spots in Carlton where the tower could meet the network needs, including by co-locating on a tower on McCutcheon Road near Kendrick Road.
The Planning Board in its resolution on Monday said the location by the water treatment plant is within “the technically feasible area necessary to provide the intended broadband service and line-of-sight microwave backhaul.”
The county evaluated other suitable structures and existing towers or co-location but with the Carlton site there was no existing structure to provide both the required wireless coverage and line-of-sight connectivity to adjacent wireless hub sites, according to the Carlton Planning Board resolution.
“The municipal utility site is the most appropriate reasonably available location based upon the network design, existing public infrastructure, municipal ownership, surrounding land uses and available space for the facility and required fall zone,” according to the resolution passed by the Carlton Planning Board.
