The Town of Crawford September board meeting was held in the Senior Center with about a dozen people in attendance, a dramatic drop from the highly emotionally charged August meeting, which can be attributed to a lighter agenda. However, some changes were immediately observed including the presence of a gavel on the table in front of Supervisor Charles Carnes, a lighted display timer to keep public participation to two minutes per person, and the playing of patriotic music in the background for a few minutes prior to the official beginning of the meeting.

Regarding Halloween, Carnes announced Pine Bush will have trick or treating from 5 – 8p.m. on Saturday, October 31. Some discussion was held regarding if the Police Benevolent Association would be participating with hayrides if allowable during the current pandemic restrictions. Decisions will also be forthcoming if it would be appropriate for homes to display some type of signage if they are not participating by handing out candy. It is advised residents check the Town of Crawford website prior to the holiday for more information.

Negative declarations, legal documents prepared after a detailed study on a development or project to show it will not have a significant adverse effect on the environment, have been completed for both the property on Main Street (formerly known as the Mitchell Performing Arts Center) and a donated parcel of land, discussed at the August meeting. These documents allow the Town to proceed with any intended use. Carnes also confirmed the property at 86 Main Street has been rented by the Town from the owner since August 1 while all necessary paperwork can be completed prior to the purchase.

A carry over of discussion regarding the direction of school buses to be rerouted to use the parking lot and traffic lot by McDonald’s was tabled again as the Town has trouble reaching the owner of the Valley Supreme plaza.

Board member, Rory Holmes, added a statement following the reading of the police activity including statistics regarding the low ratio of police to citizens, and his personal upset with the current political climate in this regard. “We need to stand and support the brave men and women who support us,” said Holmes during his narration.

A due process hearing was held regarding two cases of violation of Town property maintenance code and no public comment was made. Among the various business conducted, the Board voted to allow the Girls on the Run local organization be able to hold their own 5K with the route to be coordinated with Police Chief Blasko, and announced the Department of Transportation will soon be working on Route 52 and adding a two inch cap to the pavement as well as some shoulder work. Public hearings were set for October 15 for the budget and water sewer benefit at the next board meeting to begin at 7 p.m.