Ogdensburg to review garbage contract

OGDENSBURG — The Ogdensburg Council discussed status of the garbage contract, Heater's Pond, Ogdensburg Day, and police cars, along with other borough topics on Monday, May 9.
In addition, the council proclaimed May as “First Aid Month.” Ogdensburg First Aid Squad President and Captain Alan Arduini received the honor on behalf of the squad.
Councilman and Superintendent David Astor gave the completed garbage contract to Borough Attorney Richard Brigliadoro to review. Astor said the contract provides the same services to residents as before.
Mayor Steve Ciasullo said the state of New Jersey reviewed the Ogdensburg Heater's Pond Dam engineer report. The state will issue a response to engineering and Ogdensburg with a few minor comments.
Ciasullo also said Aquatic Analysts already started the standard application to the pond from the beach area to the swim lane. The goal is for the bottom to be completely clear in the swim area.
During the next Ogdensburg meeting, May 23, Larry Kovar of Aquatic will present options and prices regarding further treatments to Heater's Pond.
Councilwoman Rachel Slater said the contract with Agra has been completed for water testing.
Slater also discussed with the Council risk management analysis regarding a possible slide at Heater's Pond. She was told by an insurance representative a lifeguard would be needed for just the slide. She will pursue whether certain issues are required or recommended. Slater also said she will have the life guards finalized next week.
Ciasullo added later, even after a big Department of Public Works clean up, more littering occurred at the Heater's Pond pavilion. He said he did not think Ogdensburg residents littered; and the police department will ensure only residents use the pond and all current ordinances are enforced: boat licenses, badges, and no dogs.
Council President George Hutnick discussed the new idea of an “Ogdensburg Grill Master Challenge” at Ogdensburg Day, Sept. 10, rain date Sept. 11. Slater volunteered to help with the challenge. Hutnick also said he is in the process of contacting vendors from last year and will try to get new ones.
Councilwoman Regina Rizzo initiated discussion regarding police cars. After discussing different options with Police Chief Stephen Gordon, the council decided to pursue a four-year lease, for a Ford Utility SUV. The resolution will be presented at a future meeting.
Councilman Robert McGuire said he received one quote regarding fixing the front steps of borough hall and needs at least one more quote. McGuire said he will then put through a capital ordinance for the steps and the museum roof.
During public comment, resident Jean Castimore asked about the roof for the museum. McGuire said it will be a slate lookalike.
Resident Craig Taylor said blasting in a nearby quarry caused cracks in his basement foundations and porch area. Taylor asked the council to look at and resolve the issue.
Ciasullo said it was the first complaint from an Ogdensburg resident. He had spoken with the owners last week, who knew people were complaining from surrounding towns. Ciasullo also added the owners were trying to do the right thing with the community and neighbors.
McGuire asked Taylor if he had spoken with the owners regarding placing a seismograph meter in his house.
Taylor had not and will pursue the option.