From the supervisor: We need to remian vigilant
By Jim Lanning
Skaneateles Town Supervisor
The weather has begun to cooperate and we are experiencing more seasonal temperatures of late. This has slowed the growth of the algae and bacteria that created the toxins in our lake. While this episode is waning, it should be clear to all that we all need to be more cognizant of the impacts our lifestyles have on the lake and our environment.
Over the next few months we should engage a sensible and educated dialogue about the algae bloom event and take serious action steps to prevent this from happening again in the future. Some factors we have control over and some we do not. It is imperative that we begin to address those items that we can change. The first step is a solid scientific understanding of dilemma.
Nutrient loading of Skaneateles Lake was a major contributing factor in this event. If you live in the Skaneateles Lake watershed and you are adding fertilizers to your lawn, you helped contribute to the nutrient loading of the lake. The City of Syracuse has been increasing the average level of the lake for decades. This has increased the shoreline erosion problem that exists and contributed to the problem. I believe that a task force of knowledgeable individuals needs to be created to address this serious problem. With five towns and three counties on the lake it needs to be more encompassing than just Skaneateles officials. Please send me your ideas and suggestions.
The town continues to move other projects forward. The infrastructure project of replacing the water line on Old Seneca Turnpike and Masters Road is set to begin. Residents should be prepared for the delays and take alternative routes if needed. This project will increase the flow of water in our system and improve our fire protection as well. Fire hydrants will be installed where the old line was not adequate to support those. We are grateful for the state grant that made this project possible.
The boat washing station in Mandana is moving forward and we have ordered the equipment that is needed. Residents and boaters need to be aware of the new DEC regulation that requires all boats to be cleaned, drained adnd ried before launching in any body of water in NY State. Boaters, who have water in the bilge or debris on the motor and trailer, will be asked to voluntarily clean their equipment before being able to launch. This should encourage folks to change their habits to avoid delays. The washing station is being provided as a service to protect the lake from invasive species. We wish to thank the County for the grant that made this possible.
Austin Park had an incredible year this year. Many improvements were made and we were thrilled with the number of people that were able to enjoy the many offerings. The new LED lights on the basketball courts reduced costs and helped to protect the environment. I was impressed with the amount of use that these courts enjoyed. The village government will now conduct the final steps of the transfer process. This government consolidation process will produce long term savings for our taxpayers.
During the recent political campaign I became aware of a situation that is of great concern to me. Many rural residences are not clearly marked with their house numbers. Mailboxes are worn or not marked at all. Imagine our first responders trying to find your home in the dark or in bad weather. The Fire Departments will sell residents a clear house number sign that is easy to spot and identify for a small fee. Please upgrade your mail box and house numbers to help our first responders find you in an emergency.
