Berne, NY Lacks Fully Functioning Town Board After Resignations
Town Supervisor Dennis Palow Speaks Out on the Issue
BERNE, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Berne remains without a fully functioning town board after three of five board members resigned in August. For the first time, NEWS10 heard from Town Supervisor Dennis Palow about the issue on Thursday.
Priorities for the Town
"Our priority right now is to start getting back to the town and our residents so we can quickly start working again," said the Republican Palow.
Impact on Town Services
Despite the tranquility of the autumn season, trouble has been brewing in Berne following the resignations of Councilmembers Al Thiem, Leo Vane Jr., and Joe Martin in August. The lack of a full board hasn’t kept general services from operating. However, it has complicated major decisions like the budget.
Budget Solution
"We are a member of the association of towns. And we reached out to them. I turned in my tentative budget on time to the town clerk and because we have no board, my tentative budget will pass for the 2025 budget," says Palow. In short, in the absence of a functioning board, Berne can continue to operate off of its 2024 budget throughout 2025.
Association of Towns of New York
"Just how does the Association of Towns of New York help them function?" asked NEWS10. "They help us out with New York state law, they help us out with municipal law, they help us out with everything and matters of the budget and other things that could happen in the town," explained Palow.
Governor’s Role in Appointing Replacement Board Members
Governor Hochul possesses the power to appoint replacement board members. Palow says a representative from Hochul’s office said whoever he suggests will be appointed. "I gave him a name and it was Anita Clayton who was my previous deputy supervisor for my first two years. She is a registered Democrat" Palow explained. "They still have not appointed anyone and I don’t know why" he continued.
FAQs
Q: What is the current state of the town board in Berne?
A: The town board in Berne is currently not fully functioning due to the resignations of three of its five members in August.
Q: What is the current solution for the budget?
A: The town has submitted its tentative budget for 2025, which will pass and be used for the next year due to the absence of a functioning board.
Q: How does the Association of Towns of New York help Berne?
A: The Association of Towns of New York provides guidance on New York state law, municipal law, and other matters that may arise in the town.
Q: Can the Governor appoint replacement board members?
A: Yes, Governor Hochul has the power to appoint replacement board members. However, as of now, no one has been appointed.
