HORTONVILLE  — The Town of Delaware board members discussed a proposed renovation of the Callicoon Silos, meters for Callicoon water distribution, a weight restriction for Mueller Road, and increasing the fine for false alarm calls to the Fire Department, in their meeting held on Wednesday, February 12. 

Town Clerk Tess McBeath read a request for a letter of support by Isaac Diebboll, who is spearheading a “Save the Silos” Project in Callicoon, which aims to maintain the history of the grain silos while creating a space for youth engagement. The board surmised that their support will enhance Diebboll’s ability to get grants for the project, which includes constructing a new roof over the Silos and protecting them under historic preservation. 

The board agreed to sign a letter of support once it has been drafted as long as their support doesn’t carry any financial obligation for the Town of Delaware.

Watching water, weight and fire

Supervisor Scott DuBois raised the issue of installing water meters for Callicoon Water. Dubois said they’ve installed meters in the homes of most of the 200 customers, but, “we got about 40 customers left that we need to get in their house for the meter, it’s no cost to the customer- Callicoon water meters will be installed at the town’s cost.”

Dubois reported that he is in talks with Cochecton Supervisor Gary Maas to authorize a weight restriction of 10,000 pounds (5 tons) for Mueller Road, excluding local deliveries to Ackermann Farms. Dubois said that Maas offered to purchase both signs for the weight limit to be posted at each end of the road. Dubois said Mueller Road is “getting more and more use and that road is not made for tractor trailers.” The board made a motion to establish the weight limit and it passed unanimously.

In support of the local fire district, Dubois said, “I want to give the firemen fifty percent of the fines” for false alarm calls to the Fire Department. Dubois said last year a property in Kenoza Lake accrued upwards of $7,000 in fines for false alarms. Building Code Enforcement Officer Kris Scullion said that the first false alarm carries no fine, but after that a resident is fined each time. The board agreed to raise the fine from $1,000 to $2,000 on the sixth call; they asked that a local law be drafted which raises the fee and also gives half of proceeds to the fire district. This issue will be discussed in a future public hearing when board members can vote on accepting it or not.

Remembering Wall,  a community pillar

The meeting honored former council member Richard Wall with a statement of commemoration: “In memory of Richard Wall August 4, 1948 - January 30, 2025.  Whereas the people of the Town of Delaware have been grieved by the passing of one of our former members of the town council who served with honor and dignity, Richard Wall, a respected citizen of the Town of Delaware. Richard Wall had served the Town of Delaware as a member of the Town Board from January 1, 1995 through December 31, 1999.

The town went on to state that Wall performed his duties and had always exhibited those qualities essential as a public servant.

“His death leaves our community with a deep feeling of sorrow for the loss of such an honored and respected citizen. Most sincere sympathies and condolences to his family and friends, and in respect for his memory,” read town officials.