The Pine Plains Town Board convened on Thursday, Feb. 20, tackling a series of issues, including the removal of utility poles, updates on state funding for accessory dwelling units, and the hiring of a new highway laborer.
Discussions opened with a public hearing on Local Law #1 of 2025, which grants the town authority to notify utility companies about abandoned, damaged, or duplicate poles; mandate their removal; and impose fines for noncompliance. Two residents asked questions pertaining to the scope of the ordinance and its nature, but none raised objections. The law, which applies townwide, then passed by a 4-0 vote, with board member Robert Ambrose absent.
The law requires utility companies to remove outdated “double poles” — old poles adjacent to new installations — within a specified time frame. Town Attorney Warren Replansky explained that the measure aims to improve safety and aesthetics. “The town has on public highways a lot of utility poles that are either not in service, damaged, or left behind when new ones are installed,” he said.
Conversation shifted to the town’s recent New York State Plus One ADU grant award in partnership with Hudson River Housing (HRH). Pine Plains is one of eight municipalities to be granted a total of $6 million in state funds for the construction of accessory dwelling units. Board member Jeanine Sisco emphasized the need for precision in implementing the program. “As we get directions to move forward, we need to be really mindful of all the very specific information regarding this,” she said, noting that HRH is coordinating with state agencies on next steps.
The board discussed a proposed tax exemption for property owners who wish to build an ADU, aimed at incentivizing their creation. A similar law was proposed in Stanford earlier this month. A public hearing on the matter was scheduled for 7:05 p.m. on March 20.
Without opposition, board members approved a resolution advancing their intentions to pursue a Pro-Housing Community Certification, a designation that improves eligibility for state grants. “There is a real push to get this done,” Sisco said, explaining that the certification is increasingly required in order to qualify for state funding and grants. The Town Board is now waiting for documents from the Planning Board and building inspector to apply for certification.
Highway Department officials reported on ongoing snow and ice removal efforts. A shipment of 300 tons of salt was delayed, and crews are currently operating with last year’s unused supply.
The Dutchess County Board of Health approved a reduction in the frequency of PFOA contamination testing in the water supply, due to consistent non-detection.
The Recreation Department shared that youth basketball playoffs are underway and in need of additional referees. Registration for town baseball and softball leagues has begun, and the department is seeking a camp director while evaluating county grant opportunities for youth programs.
The Beautification Committee is finalizing its mission statement and hopes to launch a page on the town’s website. The committee has secured new garbage and recycling bins, though installation may be delayed until spring due to weather conditions.
The board approved the hiring of Rich Johnson Jr. as a highway laborer, with a start date of March 24 and an annual salary of $47,000. Johnson, a Pine Plains resident, has 29 years of experience in maintenance at a resort and conference center. His responsibilities will include mowing town-owned properties, clearing sidewalks, and maintaining plant barrels as well as helping the highway department with its needs.
A defensive driving course is scheduled for March 22 at the Pine Plains Lions Club, with a $38 registration fee. The Town Board also plans to hold a workshop meeting on March 17, when grant writers will present funding opportunities.
The next Town Board meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. on March 20.