Town Board Meeting
Town Board Minutes 2025.07.17

Minutes

July 17, 2025 · 39 min read · extracted text · View original

Webster Town Board

July 17, 2025

A regular meeting of the Webster Town Board was called to order by Supervisor Flaherty at

7:37 p.m. at the Webster Town Board Meeting Room, 1002 Ridge Road, Webster, New York,

with the following officials present:

Supervisor ............................................................................... Thomas J. Flaherty

Councilwoman ..........................................................................Patricia T. Cataldi

Councilman ...................................................................................... John J. Cahill

Councilwoman ........................................................................... Ginny L. Nguyen

Councilwoman ..........................................................................Jennifer S. Wright

Attorney for the Town ........................................................................ Kyle Taylor

Town Clerk ..................................................................................Danene M. Marr

Department Heads Present:

Finance Director ................................................................................. Paul Adams

Highway Superintendent ................................................................... Pat Stephens

Community Development Director .....................................................Josh Artuso

Town Assessor ................................................................................ Donna Komor

Town Engineer ..............................................................................Keith Mortimer

Deputy Commissioner of Public Works-Sewer .................................. Art Petrone

Also in attendance was Rick Kenealy, Wastewater Treatment Plant Chief Operator.

***

Supervisor Flaherty led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

***

Supervisor Flaherty invited attendees from the Women’s Club of Webster to come forward to the

podium along with the women councilmembers.

Councilwoman Cataldi read the following proclamation.

Proclamation for Outstanding Service

Presented to the

Women’s Club of Webster

WHEREAS, 2025 marks the sixtieth anniversary of the Women's Club of Webster, which was

officially organized on June 15, 1965; and

WHEREAS, the idea to form the club originated from five women, Beverly Ashcroft, Ruth

Jacque, Betty Picard, Marjorie Spear, and Nancy Thomas. These women wanted to promote the

cultural, civic, educational, and social aims of the community; and

WHEREAS, their motto, “friendship through service,” has been well defined in the Town of

Webster and beyond; and

WHEREAS, the Women’s Club of Webster supports our community through service projects,

including providing cookies and support for Red Cross blood drives, and sponsoring collections

for group projects and charities such as Webster Hope; and

1

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

WHEREAS, over the past sixty years, the Club has raised money to support programs in the

Webster community, including the Webster Public Library, Webster Museum, Webster

Community Chest, Hope House, Challenger Miracle Field, and several other agencies in Webster

and the City of Rochester; and

WHEREAS, the Women’s Club of Webster continues to host monthly luncheons and regular

social activities, including an annual card party and fashion show:

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: On behalf of the Webster Town Board and the

entire Webster community, we extend our sincerest congratulations to the Women’s Club of

Webster on its sixtieth anniversary.

July 17, 2025

Supervisor

Thomas J. Flaherty, Town

Missy Rosenberry, First Vice President of the Women’s Club of Webster and Diana Holzwasser

expressed gratitude for the friendships formed, the opportunity to give back, and the Town’s

recognition of the club’s longstanding dedication since 1965.

***

Supervisor Flaherty provided background on the following Resolution, informing the Board

Members and the audience that the Resolution concerning the proposed Creekside cell tower site

is being tabled and will not be voted on tonight, delaying its referral to the Planning Board.

Initially discussed in a Public Hearing on June 5, 2025, followed by further discussion on

July 3, 2025, the proposal drew significant public opposition. Supervisor Flaherty acknowledged

this feedback and the need for better communication, leading to the decision to send out over 300

letters and 180 emails to residents living within 1,500 feet from the proposed site to ensure they

were properly informed. This outreach was in response to community concerns that the Town

had not effectively communicated about the cell tower project.

Although the Town Board had initially planned to vote and move the matter forward to the

Planning Board, they were advised by Verizon’s attorney that certain procedural steps, such as

completing the SEQR (State Environmental Quality Review) process and authorizing the lease,

had not been finalized. Recognizing the importance of community engagement and

transparency, the Town Board decided to pause the process and revisit it at a later meeting. As a

result, the issue will likely return for a vote on August 7, 2025, with potential Planning Board

review in early September 2025.

Kyle Taylor, Attorney for the Town, further explained the Town Board is currently reviewing the

proposed cell tower lease as part of the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) process.

The applicant has submitted the initial environmental assessment form, but the Board has

requested additional information to complete their evaluation. This additional information is

expected to be provided soon. As a result, the Board has decided to table the matter until the

next meeting. Once the review is complete, the Town Board will likely refer the proposal to the

Planning Board, which will then conduct its own review of the application.

Resolution No. 214 MOTION by Supervisor Flaherty, seconded by Councilman Cahill, to table

the Verizon Wireless lease and State Environment Quality Review (SEQR) Resolutions for the

proposed Creekside Cell Tower site, located at 1209 Creekside Trail.

2

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Councilwoman Cataldi ..............Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ............ Aye

Motion carried ..........................5-0

***

The meeting was open to the floor for public comment.

Kevin Lockart, a Village of Webster resident, criticized the Town’s appointment process for the

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee as secretive and excluding public participation. He

argued that the Town Supervisor handpicked all members without following proper procedures,

creating conflicts of interest. Kevin also mentioned attempts by Town Officials to discredit him

personally in response to his complaints. He called for the recusal of the involved Board

members to ensure fairness and transparency. Overall, he urged the Town to correct its approach

and better involve the community to restore public trust.

Mark Avalone, a Webster resident, addressed the Town Board and expressed frustration about a

missed appointment opportunity with Supervisor Flaherty to discuss a personal issue. Supervisor

Flaherty declined to discuss the matter publicly, citing privacy and legal concerns related to

HIPAA. The conversation ended with a general understanding to address the issue privately at a

later time.

Brian Bixler, a Webster resident, addressed the Town Board by opposing the proposed cell

tower at Creekside Trail, arguing that there is no lack of coverage in his area and challenging the

stated need. He raised concerns about the environmental impact, particularly the disruption of

green space and local wildlife near Mill Creek. Mr. Bixler suggested alternative locations in

industrial areas that would be less disruptive to the community. He also expressed doubt that

any potential tax savings from the tower would compensate for the likely decrease in property

values. Overall, he urged the Board to reconsider the proposal with these points in mind.

Rick Storace, a 20-year Webster resident, addressed the Town Board and strongly opposed the

proposed 135-foot cell tower, emphasizing that its placement in a residential area would disrupt

the neighborhood’s character and landscape. He pointed out that studies indicate home values

typically drop by about 20% near cell towers. Mr. Storace also expressed significant health

concerns, especially for young children who have developing immune systems and thinner

skulls, making them more vulnerable to radiation exposure. He cited the World Health

Organization’s 2011 designation of cell tower radiation as a possible carcinogen and warned

about the long-term risks that might not be immediately visible.

Beyond human health, Mr. Storace raised alarms about the environmental impact on local

wildlife, including birds, bats, and fish in the nearby creek, all of which could be harmed by

radiation. He urged the Board to demand alternative, safer locations for the tower, preferably in

industrial zones away from homes and families. He called for an independent environmental

review conducted by a neutral third party to ensure transparency and protect the community’s

well-being. Ultimately, he implored the Town to prioritize the safety and future of Webster’s

residents and ecosystems over the interests of cell tower developers.

3

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

Tim Klapec, a Webster resident, addressed the Town Board and expressed concerns about the

proposed cell tower, particularly regarding its unknown long-term health effects. He emphasized

the lack of conclusive scientific studies on prolonged exposure to radiation from cell towers,

especially in children whose bodies are still developing. Citing the American Cancer Society,

Mr. Klapec pointed out that while no strong evidence currently links Radio Frequency (RF)

waves from towers to health issues, safety has not been definitively proven, and more research is

needed. He urged the Board to prioritize the well-being of future generations, noting that the

effects on today’s children may not be seen until decades later.

Mr. Klapec also advocated relocating the tower to a more suitable area, such as commercially or

industrially zoned land, rather than placing it near residences and Mill Creek. He reminded the

Board that Webster has many young families and children who would be most affected by this

decision. Lastly, he urged Town Officials to put the needs of residents above those of large

corporations like Verizon, a multi-billion-dollar company with interests that may not align with

the local community’s. His appeal was a call for thoughtful, community-focused decisionmaking.

Teresa Zawacki-Chapman, a Webster resident residing within the proposed area for the

Creekside Trail cell tower, spoke out against the proposed cell tower, emphasizing the strong

turnout as a sign of collective concern among residents. She argued that the tower is being

planned for the wrong location, pointing out inconsistencies in previous justifications for

denying alternative sites, such as claims about residential zoning and wetlands—which also

apply to the current site. Ms. Zawacki-Chapman called for transparency in the decision-making

process and asked whether alternative locations had actually been explored and reviewed. She

made it clear she is not against better service or technology but is opposed to placing

infrastructure with potential risks in a residential area without exhausting other options.

Ms. Zawacki-Chapman urged the Board to act in the best interests of the people they represent,

rather than favoring a large corporation like Verizon. Highlighting concerns over property

values, neighborhood character, and unknown health risks, she stated that Webster’s identity as a

beautiful and livable Town is at stake. Ms. Zawacki-Chapman noted that other communities

have successfully pushed back against similar projects and called on the Board to do the same.

She concluded by emphasizing that while the tower may offer some financial gain, it does not

benefit the residents and that the Board has a clear choice: to support corporate interests or

protect their own community.

Pat Deskins, a Webster resident residing at the residence in front of the proposed site, spoke

emotionally about the proposed cell tower being placed directly behind her home, expressing

frustration that no one from Verizon or the Town had communicated with her about what the

project would entail. Ms. Deskins highlighted the lack of transparency, noting that they have not

been informed about which trees will be removed, what the visual impact will be, or whether the

tower will include flashing lights (later learned there will be no flashing lights)—despite its close

proximity to their property and the natural setting they value.

4

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

Ms. Deskins also shared concerns about the safety and past misuse of a nearby access road,

including illegal activity, which only stopped after persistent complaints led to a secured fence

installation. She acknowledged being late to the public discussion due to personal caregiving

responsibilities but emphasized that she still deserved answers. While agreeing with others'

broader concerns about health and neighborhood impact, her message was centered on the

personal toll and lack of direct engagement from those planning the project.

Myriam Janke, a Webster resident and recent cancer survivor, expressed strong concern about

the proposed installation of a cell tower near their neighborhood, citing personal experience with

the lasting effects of radiation treatment. The speaker emphasized their vulnerability and fear of

potential health risks from long-term exposure to electromagnetic radiation, especially given the

lack of conclusive studies on its effects. While acknowledging the need for improved

connectivity, she stressed the importance of prioritizing community health and safety. Ms. Janke

also highlighted the potential impact on children and urged the Town to consider safer alternative

locations for the tower. She concluded by asking the Board to reconsider the placement and

protect families in the area.

Stacy Schoen, a Webster resident residing within the proposed area for the Creekside Trail cell

tower, emphasized that while it may financially benefit Verizon and possibly the Town, it offers

no advantage to the surrounding neighborhoods. She highlighted that residents like her did not

choose to live near a cell tower and now face losing their homes’ value without any say in the

matter. Ms. Schoen urged the Town Board to prioritize the community’s interests over corporate

gain, asking them to stand with the residents who have no choice but to live next to the tower if it

is approved. The turnout at the meeting, encouraged by the Town’s outreach efforts, shows

widespread opposition. She concluded by pleading with the Board to support the residents and

reject the tower proposal.

James Annis, a Webster resident, opposes the proposed cell tower location. He suggests an

alternative site at the nearby Webster Presbyterian Church, proposing the tower be placed within

its bell tower to keep it hidden and help the church financially with looming roof repairs. Mr.

Annis has discussed this idea with the church, who were open to Verizon contacting them, but

despite leaving a message with Verizon’s attorney, he received no response. Overall, he firmly

opposes the current proposal.

Mike Crosby, Verizon RF Engineer, addressed community concerns about the proposed cell

tower, emphasizing his 30 years of experience working with communities in New York and

Pennsylvania. He shared that as an engineer, he learned to consider the impact of technology on

communities and strives to build networks that minimize negative effects. Mr. Crosby explained

that cell sites are safely located on various buildings, including hospitals and schools, and that

the chosen site in Webster is a Town-owned parcel intended to reduce community impact. He

highlighted that major health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO)

and Federal Communications Commission (FCC), have found no evidence of adverse health

effects from RF signals at levels emitted by cell towers, though continued research is

encouraged.

5

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

Mr. Crosby also clarified how RF energy works, noting that cell towers emit much lower power

than mobile phones themselves, which actually increase their power when a tower is not nearby,

resulting in higher RF exposure for users. By installing a strategically placed cell tower, phones

can reduce their power output, lowering overall radiation exposure to the community. He

offered to provide further detailed information on RF energy standards at the next meeting and

encouraged the community to research this to better understand the technology and its safety.

Robert Burgdorf, a representative of the law firm of Nixon Peabody, spoke on behalf of

Verizon Wireless, he emphasized that concerns about health effects from the proposed cell tower

are legally preempted by federal law, meaning municipalities cannot consider these when

approving tower siting. He reiterated that Verizon has provided extensive data supporting the

safety of radio frequency emissions and will no longer engage in health debates with local

Boards, warning that any denial based on health concerns would be overturned in court. Mr.

Burgdorf also addressed alternative locations, stating Verizon is open to other sites within the

designated search area but has not received viable suggestions except for one church site

currently under review. He clarified that Verizon has supplied photo simulations to neighbors

and confirmed the tower would not require flashing lights. Mr. Burgdorf stressed the legal

obligation to provide service as a public utility and the years of cooperation with the Town to

find a suitable site, while expressing frustration that despite ongoing dialogue, no better location

has been identified by the community.

***

Resolution No. 215: MOTION by Supervisor Flaherty, seconded by Councilwoman Nguyen, to

approve the July 3, 2025 Town Board Workshop Minutes as submitted by the Town Clerk.

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilwoman Cataldi .....Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ... Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Motion carried ..................5-0

***

Resolution No. 216: MOTION by Supervisor Flaherty, seconded by Councilwoman Cataldi, to

approve the July 3, 2025 Town Board Minutes as submitted by the Town Clerk.

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilwoman Cataldi .....Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ... Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Motion carried ..................5-0

***

Resolution No. 217: MOTION by Councilwoman Nguyen, seconded by Councilwoman

Wright, to approve the bills as submitted in Warrant #0725A by the Director of Finance.

6

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

Fund

General (A,B) CL #2284-2491

Highway (C,D)

Sewer (G)

Library (L)

Park Districts (P)

Trust & Agency (T/A,N/SF,T/T, WEMS)

Capital Projects (H) #112-112

H232 Highway Garage Building

TOTAL

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Inside

169,013.74

119,985.54

24,808.15

77,902.56

7,687.00

0.00

Outside

43,184.48

36,969.54

68,813.27

1,989.70

98.02

22,105.05

Card/ACH

2,831.53

84,841.54

4,325.71

958.68

0.00

0.00

Total

215,029.75

241,796.62

97,947.13

80,850.94

7,785.02

22,105.05

40,307.69

439,704.68

8,196.60

181,356.66

0.00

92,957.46

48,504.29

714,018.80

Councilwoman Cataldi .....Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ... Aye

Motion carried ..................5-0

***

Resolution No. 218: MOTION by Supervisor Flaherty, seconded by Councilwoman Cataldi, to

approve the prepaid vouchers included in Warrant #0725A by the Director of Finance in the

amount of $181,356.66. [Included in the summary of vouchers approved in Resolution #217]

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilwoman Cataldi .....Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ... Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Motion carried ..................5-0

***

Resolution No. 219: MOTION by Supervisor Flaherty, seconded by Councilwoman Nguyen, to

approve purchase orders as submitted by the Director of Finance.

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilwoman Cataldi .....Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ... Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Motion carried ..................5-0

***

Resolution No. 220: MOTION by Supervisor Flaherty, seconded by Councilman Cahill, to

approve the 2025 Budget Amendment as presented by the Finance Director.

Budget Amendments #127

Effective Date 07/18/2025 created on 07/16/25

Line Account Code Department

Previous

Changed

1. A9950.90100

Transfer to Capital Fund

0.00

100,000.00

2. A599.40092

Appropriated Fund Balance (1,147,000.00) (100,000.00)

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilwoman Cataldi .....Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ... Aye

Councilwoman Wright……Aye

Motion carried ..................5-0

7

Amended

100,000.00

(1,247,000.00)

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

***

Resolution No. 221 MOTION by Supervisor Flaherty, seconded by Councilwoman Wright, to

agree to the proposed assessment reductions and estimated tax refunds resulting from the

settlement of Real Property Tax Law, Article 7, assessment litigation between COR HOLT

ROAD CO. LLC and The Town of Webster, ET AL.

WHEREAS, tax certiorari litigation commenced and has continued on behalf of properties

located at 913-917 Holt Road, Town of Webster, Parcel #079.12-1-1-19.112, 1032-1046 Ridge

Road, Town of Webster, Parcel #079.16-1-1.11 and 1058-1070 Ridge Road, Town of Webster,

Parcel #079.16-1-2.11 for the tax years 2024; and

WHEREAS, an issue had been joined by the Town, and discussions had between the attorneys

for the parties, and appraisals conducted; and

WHEREAS, the parties, by their attorneys, and with their clients’ consent have come to an

agreement to settle the matters currently before the Court, which settlement will result in a

reduction of past assessments of the subject properties, and result in refunds of some of the

property taxes paid upon such property; and

WHEREAS, upon the advice and recommendation of the attorney for the Town Respondents and

the Assessor, the proposed settlement includes the following reductions and refunds:

Proposed Assessment Reductions for Tax Roll Year 2024:

913-917 Holt Road, Parcel #079.12-1-1-19.112, $9,638,200.00 to $6,760,000.00

1032-1046 Ridge Road, Parcel #079.16-1-1.11, $7,046,000.00 to $5,720,000.00

1058-1070 Ridge Road, Parcel #079.16-1-2.11, $12,718,000 to $8,840,000.00

Estimated Tax Refunds as calculated by the Town Receiver of Taxes:

913-917 Holt Road, Parcel #079.12-1-19.112 $15,521.84

1032-1046 Ridge Road, Parcel #079.16-1-1.11 $7,153.14

1058-1070 Ridge Road, Parcel #079.16-1-2.11 $20,913.67

Total of $43,588.65 (without interest)

WHEREAS, the Town of Webster has the authority to authorize payment of these aforesaid tax

refunds; and

WHEREAS, the matter has been fully discussed by the Town Board:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:

That the Town Board hereby agrees to refund to COR HOLT ROAD CO. LLC the sum of

$43,588.65, or an amount as appropriately calculated based upon the assessment reductions set

forth above as and for refunds of Town property taxes paid.

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilwoman Cataldi ..............Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ............ Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Motion carried ..........................5-0

***

8

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

Resolution No. 222: MOTION by Supervisor Flaherty, seconded by Councilwoman Wright,

refer the proposed Xerox Solar Farm to the Planning Board for site plan review, pursuant to

Town Code Section 350-22D.

WHEREAS, Webster Solar Garden LLC owns property at 139 Caracas Dr., Town of Webster;

and

WHEREAS, Webster Solar Garden, as representative of Webster Solar Garden LLC, seeks to

construct a building at 139 Caracas Dr. in the Town of Webster to provide office space, fleet

parking and vehicle maintenance facilities for Webster Solar Garden, as well as leasable garage

spaces and dog daycare facilities; and

WHEREAS, the affected lands are in an Industrial District (“I-N”); and

WHEREAS, pursuant to Webster Town Code 350-22(D) an Industrial Use Permit is required for

any use within an I-N district; and

WHEREAS, Webster Town Code, Section 350-22(D)(2) requires referral of applications for

Industrial Use Permits to the Town Planning Board; and

WHEREAS, the Site Plan and application have been received by the Town Board; and

WHEREAS, an Environmental Assessment Form has been received and reviewed by the Town

Board; and

WHEREAS, after referral from the Town Board to the Town Planning Board, Webster Town

Code, Section 350-22(D)(3) requires the Town Planning Board to review application and

supporting documentation and submit a report back to the Town Board regarding its findings and

recommendations on the application:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:

1. That the application, together with all supporting documents be referred to the Town of

Webster Planning Board for its review and recommendation.

2. That the Town Planning Board as soon as practicable, after completion of site plan review

procedure under Webster Town Code Chapter 269, shall submit a report of its findings with

its recommendation for approval, conditional approval or disapproval of an Industrial Use

Permit to the Town Board.

3. That the Town Board consents to any request of the Town Planning Board that the Town

Planning Board be designated as the lead agency for coordinated review procedures for the

proposed action under the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act.

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

9

Councilwoman Cataldi ..............Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ............ Aye

Motion carried ..........................5-0

***

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

Supervisor Flaherty presented the following Resolution stating the Town Board has deliberated

on whether to build a dog holding facility on the Town Hall campus or at another Town-owned

site, such as the Highway Garage. This follows the end of a long-standing agreement with

Pittsford Animal Hospital, which previously housed stray dogs but exited the business in 2022.

Since then, the Town has been left scrambling, along with many others in Monroe County, to

find a solution for housing about two stray dogs per month. A $400,000.00 state grant was

secured in April 2024 to support the construction of a kennel. However, cost estimates revealed

the facility would cost around $1 million, leaving taxpayers to cover the remaining $600,000.00

This sparked concerns among Board members and residents about the financial burden.

As a result, the Board has explored alternative options, including scaled-down designs and

potential partnerships with neighboring towns that already have kennel facilities. Councilman

Cahill and Town Engineer Keith Mortimer have helped lead efforts to investigate these

possibilities, revisiting intermunicipal agreements (IMAs) and other cost-effective strategies.

While some residents and Board members support spending whatever is needed to care for

animals, others are alarmed at the high price for such a small number of dogs. The Board

emphasizes its duty to be fiscally responsible stewards of taxpayer money, making this decision

a complex and sensitive one. Tonight’s meeting aimed to determine the Town's final direction

after over a year of debate and planning.

Resolution No. 223 MOTION by Supervisor Flaherty, seconded by Councilman Cahill, to

pursue an Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) to support a dog kennel/holding area.

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilwoman Cataldi ..............Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ............ Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Motion carried ..........................5-0

Councilwoman Nguyen suggested applying for a CFA grant for this, but the due date for

applying is two weeks away, leaving an in ample amount of time to proceed.

Supervisor Flaherty closed the discussion on the above Resolution by stating that he plans to

meet with Police Chief Dennis Kohlmeier, Animal Control Officer Barb Hollands, and Town

Legal Counsel Kyle Taylor to discuss informing "Ags and Market" that the Town will not

proceed with submitting the contract for the grant they received months ago. Despite the

significant $600,000+ grant involved—secured through Barb's efforts—Supervisor Flaherty felt

it’s necessary to decline it, stressing the importance of respectful communication even with

government agencies.

***

Pat Stephens, Highway Superintendent presented the next Resolution. He explained that the

original design of the salt barn was incomplete, so they need to revise the SEQR (State

Environmental Quality Review) determination with updated plans before proceeding to bid and

construction. As a first step, the Board must declare intent to be the lead agency, ensuring the

process is thorough and aligned with an upcoming grant application at the end of the month.

Resolution No. 224: MOTION by Councilwoman Wright, seconded by Councilwoman Cataldi,

to declare the intent of the Town of Webster Town Board to be designated as lead agency for the

10

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

Action and direct to the Town Supervisor the Full EAF Part

1. WHEREAS, the Town of Webster Town Board (hereinafter referred to as “Town Board”) has

reviewed the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (“SEQRA”) Full

Environmental Assessment Form (“EAF”) Part 1, prepared by the MRB Group (hereinafter

referred to as “Engineer”) on the above-referenced Town of Webster Highway Facility – Phase 2

Project (hereinafter referred to as “Action”); and

WHEREAS, the Town Board determines that said Action is classified as a Type 1 Action under

the State Environmental Quality Review (“SEQR”) Regulations; and

WHEREAS, the Town Board determines that said Action is also subject to review and approval

by other involved agencies under the SEQR Regulations; and

WHEREAS, the Town Board determines that it is the most appropriate agency to ensure the

coordination of this Action and will provide written notifications to involved agencies, for the

purposes of conducting a coordinated review and making the determination of significance

thereon under the SEQR Regulations:

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: That the Town Board does hereby declare its

intent to be designated as the lead agency for the Action and directs the Town Supervisor to sign

and date the Full EAF Part

1. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the MRB Group Engineer is directed to provide notice

hereof to the involved and interested agencies, seeking their agreement (or objection thereto) in

writing.

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilwoman Cataldi ..............Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ............ Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Motion carried ..........................5-0

***

Resolution No. 225 MOTION by Councilwoman Cataldi, seconded by Councilman Cahill, to

approve and authorize the Town Supervisor to sign an Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) with the

Webster Central School District for School Resource Officers.

WHEREAS, the Town Board of Webster has the authority pursuant to New York State General

Municipal Law and Town Law to authorize the Supervisor to enter into an Intermunicipal

Agreement with the Webster Central School District for the purpose of providing two (2)

Webster Police Officers as School Resource Officers; and

WHEREAS, the Town of Webster, by its Police Department, employs sworn Police Officers,

each of whom are capable of performing the duties and functions of a School Resource Officer

(SRO), which (or who) is assigned to provide law enforcement expertise and resources to assist

school staff in maintaining safety and order with their assigned school(s); and

WHEREAS, the SRO Program aims to create and maintain safe, secure, and orderly learning

environments for students, teachers, and staff; and

11

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

WHEREAS, the goals of the SRO Program are to reduce incidents of school violence, reduce

criminal offenses committed by juveniles and young adults, establish a rapport between the

SROs and the student population and school staff:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:

That the Town of Webster approves and authorizes the Town Supervisor to sign an

Intermunicipal Agreement with the Webster Central School District for two (2) School Resource

Officers for the 2025-2026 School Year. The contract shall be effective September 1, 2025 and

end on June 30, 2026.

[Agreement to be filed in the Town Clerk’s Office]

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilwoman Cataldi ..............Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ............ Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Motion carried ..........................5-0

***

Attorney for the Town Kyle Taylor, recommended Councilwoman Wright recuse herself from

the following Resolution and vote due to her involvement in the Comprehensive Plan

Committee, and that he sees no reason for Supervisor Flaherty to recuse himself. Supervisor

Flaherty stated that it is appropriate for the Town Board to formally approve the formation of the

Steering Committee under Town law, despite delays caused by the conditions of a $100,000 state

grant, the committee was carefully configured with state guidance, and the current Resolution

aims to officially recognize its formation before it begins substantive work later this year.

Resolution No. 226 MOTION by Supervisor Flaherty, seconded by Councilwoman Cataldi, to

formally appoint a Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee to assist the Town Board with an

update to the Town’s Comprehensive Plan.

WHEREAS, Colliers Engineering presented the Town of Webster with a Request for Proposal,

dated September 13, 2024 (“RFP”), for the purpose of securing a contract to provide services

related to updating the Town of Webster’s Comprehensive Plan; and,

WHEREAS, the RFP indicated Colliers Engineering would work with the Town of Webster’s

Comprehensive Plan Committee in updating the Comprehensive Plan; and,

WHEREAS, the Webster Town Board unanimously passed a resolution on November 7, 2024,

authorizing the Supervisor to sign the contract with Colliers Engineering for the purposes of

updating the Town of Webster Comprehensive Plan; and

WHEREAS, the Webster Town Supervisor signed the contract with Colliers Engineering on

December 10, 2024; and

WHEREAS, between December 10, 2024 and January 15, 2025, Town officials and Colliers

Engineering worked collaboratively with New York State DOS to identify and select a group of

diverse committee members to serve on the Comprehensive Plan Committee; and

WHEREAS, the following individuals were selected to serve on the Comprehensive Plan

12

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

Committee:

Anthony Casciani, Planning Board

Michael Short, Zoning Board of Appeals

Michael Duminuco, Conservation Board

Jamie Newtown, Community Member

Jennifer Wright, Town Board

Brian Neenan, Webster Central School District

Matt Chatfield, Community Member

Greg Chambrey, Business Owner

Bill Horeth, Community Member/Business Owner

Charlie Johnson, Community Member

Anna Taylor, Friends of Webster Trails

Ben Wisniewski, Friends of Webster Trails (alternate)

Barry Howard, Webster Chamber of Commerce; and,

WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan Committee will prepare a proposed comprehensive plan

and amendments thereto and recommend the same, by resolution, to the Town Board; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to Town Law 272-a the Webster Town Board may, by resolution,

authorize a special board to prepare a proposed comprehensive plan and amendments thereto:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:

1. That the Town Board hereby authorizes the creation of Comprehensive Plan Committee,

nunc pro tunc to December 10, 2024, and directs said committee to prepare a proposed

Comprehensive Plan for the Town of Webster, and

2. That the Town Board directs the Comprehensive Plan Committee to recommend, by

resolution, any proposed Comprehensive Plan to the Town Board.

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilwoman Cataldi ..............Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ............ Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Recused Motion carried ...........................4-0

***

Resolution No. 227 MOTION by Councilwoman Wright, seconded by Councilwoman Cataldi,

to approve the following items for auction from the Highway Department:

13

StertilKoni Lift

Quincy Upright Air Compressor

Quincy Air Compressor

Waste Oil Burner

Reznor Hanging Heater

Re-Verver-Ray Hanging Heater

Asset Tag #7270

Asset Tag #2342

Asset Tag #2341

Asset Tag #2537

No Asset Tag

No Asset Tag

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Councilman Cataldi ......... Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ... Aye

Motion carried ..................5-0

***

At 9:17 p.m. Supervisor Flaherty called for an Executive Session.

Resolution No. 228: MOTION by Supervisor Flaherty, seconded by Councilwoman Cataldi, to

enter into Executive Session pursuant to New York State Public Officer’s Law §105(1)(a) and (f)

to discuss matters which will imperil the public safety if disclosed and the medical, financial,

credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the

appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal, or removal of

a particular person or corporation.

WHEREAS, New York State Public Officers Law provides that the Town Board may enter into

Executive Session to discuss certain subjects or matters:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:

That the Town Board enter into an Executive Session pursuant to New York State Public

Officer’s Law §105(1)(a) and (f) to discuss matters which will imperil the public safety if

disclosed and the medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or

corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion,

discipline, suspension, dismissal, or removal of a particular person or corporation.

That the following persons were authorized to attend: Paul Adams, Finance Director, and Kyle

Taylor, Attorney for the Town.

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilman Cataldi ......... Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ... Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Motion carried ..................5-0

***

Resolution No. 229: MOTION by Supervisor Flaherty, seconded by Councilman Cahill, to

return to Regular Session at 9:41 p.m.

Vote on motion:

Supervisor Flaherty ............ Aye

Councilwoman Cataldi .....Aye

Councilman Cahill ............. Aye

Councilwoman Nguyen ... Aye

Councilwoman Wright .......Aye

Motion carried ..................5-0

***

There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at

9:41 p.m.

____________________________________

14

07-17-2025

Webster Town Board

Danene M. Marr, Town Clerk

15

07-17-2025

End of document