The Town of Crawford Board Meeting was held April 16 via Zoom. Town reports were provided for the police and building departments for the months of both February and March. One of the concerns raised by the building department included several unsafe buildings recommended to be demolished and removed beginning on or before June 4. A due process hearing will likely be scheduled for May 21.

Following the review of the Town Clerk’s report including a decrease in revenue, Board Member Mike Menendez pointed out, “We have good reserves. We have a rainy-day fund.”

To which Supervisor Carnes responded concerns related to the sidewalk improvement project and other upcoming expenses. Board Member Dan Flanick said, “I thought all projects were on hold,” (related to New York PAUSE) to which Supervisor Carnes answered, “I’m not sure.”

Carnes expressed the need to arrive at a staggered personnel schedule which will allow the Town Hall to reopen in May. Each department would never have more than two members present, would be available via appointment, and with appropriate social distancing measures in place to keep the employees and public safe.

The status of many popular community events including the UFO Fair and Summer Concert Series are currently unknown as the New York PAUSE remains in place through May 15. The Memorial Day Parade has been canceled in agreement by the American Legion Post 1308, VFW Post 5492, and Catholic War Veterans Post 1937. A proposal to hold a small observance in the Town Park including a prayer, playing of taps, and placement of three wreaths was offered in substitution.

The townwide yard sale was approved for June 6 with a rain date of June 7 rather than the requested May 23 due to potential conflicts related to coronavirus closure mandates.

Crawford’s May Board Meeting is scheduled for May 7 and will likely be held virtually for those who wish to attend. Four public hearings will likely be on the agenda including a revision of the farm related zoning requirements from 50’ to 100’ distance between any building or structure used to house animals from property lines. Supervisor Carnes explained the recommendation from the Planning Board was also reviewed by the Department of Agriculture and Markets. Visit the Town of Crawford website and Facebook page for the next meeting link and further information.