Mayor: Residents showing interest in natural gas

OGDENSBURG — Mayor Steve Ciasullo said on July 24 since the July meeting, resdients are already showing interest in having Elizabethtown Gas supply natural gas to their homes
Later, Ciasullo said, he hopes the residents take advantage of the opportunity, complete the necessary research, and make informed decisions. He added, he would like to see it happen for those who are actually going to see a savings - even after investing a little money.
Ciasullo continued, natural gas may not be for everyone. The council is trying to make sure everyone knows all their options, he said, because he does not think this opportunity will come again to the borough.
He also said, for those who do not have internet, they may come to borough hall and participate in the interest survey. In addition, he placed the survey link on the Facebook page. If anyone has any interest in possibly converting to natural gas, Ciasullo said, they should fill out the survey on-line, or at Borough Hall, by Aug. 15.
Ciasullo also said, the mayor and council reviewed the permit fees for plumbing and electrical permits, and the costs are minimal. In addition, he is researching the true range of conversion costs, he said, from propane or oil to natural gas.
Councilman Anthony Nasisi later said, the permit costs would be more than paid for in a year's worth of fuel cost savings. Ciasullo added, certain conversion work can be completed by a resident, but they will still need a permit.
Ciasullo concluded, if they get enough people, “The gas is coming to your house for free,” and most of the conversions or upgrades will pay for themselves. Also, he continued, upgrading existing equipment or changing it will not affect taxes.
The borough will send out a town mailer, with more information, to every resident; and Elizabethtown Gas will also send a follow-up letter.
Ciasullo also reported the bid opening began July 28 for the Heater's Pond Dam contractor.
Nasisi presented the proposed borough clerk/town manager job description draft, preparing for the retirement of Borough Clerk Phyllis Drouin in November. After discussion, officials agreed to include in the advertisement, “Town management experience a plus.”
Ciasullo explained, the town management experience would help when something needs to be completed before the next council meeting. First, the council would need to give the clerk/town manager that authority.
The advertisement will be posted on the borough website, newspapers, Municipal Clerks' Association, and N.J. Civil Service page. Résumés will be required by Sept. 15.
Councilman Peter Opilla said, Department of Public Works Supervisor Chris Ross is still trying to get a third bid for the Beardslee Hill loop repair. Opilla will contact CFO Monica Goscicki regarding scheduling the work.
Councilman George Hutnick said, he has two bids in writing for Ogdensburg Day; and last year's company has the best price. He explained, due to higher demand for amusements in September, they will need to begin planning for 2018 Ogdensburg Day at the end of this year and reserve amusements in January.
Officials agreed Hutnick should move forward, for this year, by reserving amusements with the lowest bidder — last year's company — as he waits for the third higher bid in writing.
Opilla said he wanted to bring to Council President Rachel Slater's attention the back of the pond is great, but the swimming area seems to have more weeds. Officials believed the next weed treatment will be in August.