New Leak Detection Technology Quickly Identifies Water Main Issue on Park Avenue
New Leak Detection Technology Quickly Identifies Water Main Issue on Park Avenue
Town officials review new monitoring equipment alongside updates on sidewalks, water projects, and Town Hall improvements
The Ellicottville Town Board covered a wide range of updates at its January meeting, including infrastructure improvements, public safety staffing, short-term rental enforcement, and plans for future community development. Highlights are as follows:
Arboretum Community Impact: Steve Ward, president of the Nannen Arboretum Committee, presented a year-end report highlighting the many accomplishments of the volunteer-run arboretum throughout 2025. Volunteers continue to maintain and improve the grounds while offering educational opportunities for the community. Board members expressed appreciation for the ongoing efforts and the positive impact the arboretum provides.
Police Department Seeks Full-Time Officer: Officer-in-Charge Jim Bouchard reported that the department is seeking a replacement for a full-time officer who is resigning. The board formally accepted the resignation of Ira John, effective January 23, 2026. John will continue working for the Town on a part-time basis.
Bouchard also commended his officers for going above and beyond their duties, noting that the department has received numerous compliments and letters of appreciation from the public.
Highway and Building Updates: Highway Superintendent Scot Brumagin discussed upcoming maintenance projects and praised his crew for keeping operations running smoothly during his absence. He noted that Tobias Widger has stepped up to assist the Deputy Superintendent, and Brumagin remains in daily communication with the team.
Code Enforcement Officer and Building Inspector Kelly Fredrickson reported that letters have been sent to property owners advertising short-term rentals who have not responded to previous notices. Properties found to be in violation will be subject to prosecution. Overall, inspections across town have been proceeding well.
Fredrickson also shared an update on the old Depot building, which engineers have deemed structurally sound. While deck repairs will be needed, the building may currently be used as a means of egress, but not for gatherings.
Planning, Grants, and Town Hall Improvements: Town Planner Greg Keyser was absent, but Supervisor John McAndrew reported that the Town was not awarded the New York State Department of State Local Government Efficiency Grant. As a result, the Town will complete its Comprehensive Plan update in-house, with a committee expected to be formed at the next meeting.
Work on the Town Hall front door remains delayed due to one window not yet being ready. The Town’s architect has also provided a preliminary estimate of approximately $50,000 to develop design plans for replacing all Town Hall windows, with a formal proposal forthcoming.
Water Projects and Leak Detection Technology: The Town Engineering and Water Departments recently previewed new leak detection equipment and software, which successfully detected a leak on Park Avenue within days. Three monitoring units and software would cost approximately $7,000, with batteries lasting about five years.
Progress is also continuing on the HoliMont water project. Plans are being submitted to the county so that the first phase of construction - up to the meter pit - can be put out to bid.
Sidewalk Extension and Traffic Safety: Supervisor McAndrew outlined how extending the sidewalk past Crosby’s and Steelbound could potentially be included in the EVGV Trail’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant application. Budget details and the application process were reviewed, with the final submission due in mid-March.
Regarding a speed reduction request on Maples Road, Mark Burr, Consulting Engineer, is revising the proposal to focus on a shorter section, which may improve its chances of approval. Letters of support from residents are encouraged to strengthen the request and should be sent directly to to the Town of Ellicottville, 1 W. Washington St., PO Box 600, Ellicottville, NY 14731 or emailed to evltownclerk@gmail.com before next month’s meeting.
Public Hearing Set for Residency Requirement: The Board unanimously approved setting a public hearing on a proposed local law establishing residency requirements for the appointed Town Clerk and Tax Collector positions. The hearing will take place on February 18, 2026 at 6:00pm at Town Hall, 1 West Washington Street. Legal notices will be published and posted as required.
School Resource Officer Contract Review: Ellicottville Central School administrators have requested a detailed breakdown of expenses related to the School Resource Officer (SRO) contract and clarification on certain items. Town Attorney Seth Pullen will assist in reviewing the contract.
Ongoing Business and Correspondence: Fredrickson continues to work on revisions to the Town’s alarm ordinance. Supervisor McAndrew is also researching how to separate Lynne Weishan Drive from the Fire Hall property as the Town prepares to transfer property ownership to the Fire Department.
The Town received correspondence from New York State Homes and Community Renewal confirming that Ellicottville has been certified as a Pro-Housing Community, which opens up the opportunity to apply for more grants.
Public Comment Raises Short-Term Rental Timing Question: During the privilege of the floor, resident Mike Clough raised concerns regarding a pending purchase of a home he intends to use as a short-term rental. With a March 1st limit restricting property owners to one short-term rental, Clough questioned whether a property under contract but not yet closed could still be considered for approval. Attorney Pullen indicated that the law may allow approval under those circumstances, provided the property owner is acting in good faith and has a signed contract in place.
The next regular meeting of the Town Board of Trustees will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 6:00pm at the Ellicottville Town Hall. The public is encouraged to attend. Additional details can be accessed on the Town’s official website at townofellicottvilleny.gov.
