BLASDELL
Term limits and salary reductions adopted in response to referendums
The Blasdell Village Board adopted two new laws Wednesday in response to June 10 referendum results.
Local Law 2 establishes a term limit for trustees and the mayor to no more than two terms of four years each.
Local Law 3 reduces the salary of the mayor and trustees by 10 percent below the average of five similar-sized villages in Erie County.
Residents approved the propositions overwhelmingly.
There was little discussion about a proposal to study the dissolution of the village, which failed to pass on June 10.
Mayor Ernest Jewett noted that “the fight isn’t over yet,” referring to downsizing advocate Kevin Gaughan’s vow to push the issue, once more, to a referendum vote in November.
Trustee David Adrian said, “We are confident in our numbers and that the same outcome will result.”
In another matter, the board approved a mutual-aid program between the Blasdell and Woodlawn volunteer fire departments, in which members from both departments will respond to calls. Town of Hamburg Dispatch will be notified of the new agreement effective immediately.
Jewett said, “Manpower in the fire department isn’t what it used to be. It takes a lot of time and schooling. This arrangement will be better for all residents.”
Blasdell has 28 volunteers and Woodlawn about 45. However, the active rosters are much smaller, the mayor said.
Also, Trustee Jeffrey Adrian announced that a revitalization grant from 2006 has been extended through November.
The $168,000 grant matches state funds with money put up by local merchants who renovate their businesses. He said the geographic area eligible for the funds has been expanded to include Maple Road to Pearl Street and all of Lake Avenue.
In a related matter, the board approved an agreement with Connie D. Miner & Co. for grant-consulting services through May 2010.
Jewett said the company is responsible for obtaining more than $2 million in grants. Jeffrey Adrian noted also that the village plans to revamp its Web site to include a list of all grants being pursued.
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