At its May 19 meeting, the Gallatin Town Board discussed removing asbestos siding from the town hall building and other potential renovations, including a new driveway and storage space for town records.
Town Supervisor Tara Silberberg raised concerns about the building’s shingles, which she said contain asbestos.
“They are degrading,” Silberberg said. “There are pieces on the ground around the building.”
She proposed that the board reach out to asbestos testing companies for quotes and develop an abatement plan to remove the shingles permanently, preventing the issue from affecting future generations of Gallatin residents. Exposure to asbestos can increase the risk of lung disease, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
The board also discussed adding a room in the back of the building to store town records. The files are currently stored in the basement, where humidity could compromise them. The board also explored closing the driveway that opens onto County Route 7, citing safety concerns.
“It is incredibly dangerous to make a left out of there,” Silberberg said. “People can come around that corner, you only have about 20 feet that you can see.”
If approved, the new driveway would enter from Tinker Hill Road. Silberberg said the timing could be favorable because the bridge near County Route 7 and Tinker Hill Road, which crosses a tributary of the Roe Jan Kill, was replaced in 2025 and is expected to remain functional for many years.
Discussion about the town hall has been ongoing since 2024, when the board determined a full-scale renovation would be too costly.
The board is expected to form a six-member committee for town hall renovations, including two town board members, at its next meeting, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 16, according to Silberberg. Residents interested in serving on the committee may email a letter of interest to Silberberg at gallatinsupervisor@gallatinny.gov.
Town Board Member Jeff Jorve led a discussion on potential updates to the zoning code, including easing some restrictions on additional dwelling units and adding forest protection overlay districts. Silberberg said the board is considering creating a zoning review committee that would convene once the new zoning rules take effect to track implementation and recommend changes if needed.
Consultant Nan Stolzenburg, who worked with the town on the comprehensive plan, is scheduled to hold a workshop on the potential zoning changes at 5 p.m. June 1, Silberberg said.
Town Assessor Rene DeLeeuw reminded residents that Grievance Day is scheduled for 4 to 8 p.m. May 26, when he will be available to address questions about new property assessments.