New solar energy devices that plug into a regular outlet could save New Yorkers money once the Solar Up Now New York (SUNNY) Act is signed by Governor Kathy Hochul. And a new restaurant is coming to the Municipal Center, according to the August 18 Marbletown board meeting.

Solar Act

The SUNNY Act was passed by the Senate and the Assembly on May 28. “Governor Hochul has not signed it yet,” Supervisor Rich Parete stated at the meeting.

This act intends to increase access to approved plug-in solar devices also known as “balcony solar” units. Tom Konrad of the Environmental Conservation Commission (ECC) indicated that these are “small units that plug into a normal outlet.” These green energy devices could be ideal for renters, small businesses, and buildings that lack the roofing space needed for conventional solar paneling. Konrad, with this resolution, is authorized to write letters to NYSERDA, with intentions to find out more about permits and which devices are officially approved.

Local savings estimates were presented within the resolution. “A homeowner installing an 800-watt plug-in solar system in Marbletown can expect to generate approximately 928 kilowatt-hours, annually saving roughly $185 in the first year at current Central Hudson rates.”

With this resolution, the board “endorses the goal of ensuring that qualifying plug-n solar devices are not subject to unnecessary building permit or zoning requirements.”

As the ECC continues to work toward Silver-level certification as an NYS Climate Smart Community, “Marbletown Environmental Conservation Commission… is providing guidance to other municipalities on aligning local building permit requirements with the SUNNY act.”

Electronics and Construction

Platform designers CivicPlus will create a new Marbletown website. This Kansas-based company exclusively designs municipal websites. “They’re going to re-do our entire website,” Parete said, adding that it’s “not going to be a long process.” The web services will cost $5,954 for the first year, with fees rising to $7,174 next year.

With the low bid of $6,800, Just in Time HVAC was authorized to install a “mini-split system in the court clerk’s office” of RMC.

M and T Advanced Building Solutions of Kerhonkson are authorized to begin work on the bathrooms at Marbletown Town Park, 350 Tongore Road. The 224-square foot restroom building will contain “two ADA-compliant bathrooms” per this resolution. With completion expected by November 15, Parete said “the existing bathrooms are going to be open” during construction.

The board approved a letter of agreement with New York City concerning construction of “a spillway on 28A,” Parete said. “DEP proposes to construct a temporary notch approximately four feet six inches in depth and approximately fifty-eight feet in length along the top of the Ashokan Spillway.” This trench construction intends “to manage the level of the reservoir.” Parete added, “The DEP will take full responsibility if something happens.”

Food Service

Resolution 93 waived “the 30-day advance notice requirement” for alcohol sales at Amelia’s Pantry, 155 Main Street, High Falls. Regarding this “farm to fork” eatery, “They’re in front of the planning board right now,” Board member Max Stratton said. Their signage was approved at the July 27 planning board meeting.

Additionally, restauranteur Juan Moises Santos had a lease approved to open an eatery in the cafe/bistro space at Rondout Municipal Center. Moe’s Family Kitchen of Rosendale plans to serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, entering a one-year lease.

Other Business

“It’s progressing,” Max Stratton said regarding Marbletown Community Center (MCC) construction.

His meetings with Chris Ruel of North River Architecture and Scott Davis of Peak Engineering have focused on “the bones of the building” and reconstruction of the floors.

The Parks, Trails, and Recreation department is planning an anniversary celebration, but this may be postponed until the town park bathrooms are completed.