rAining...LED Street Lighting Conversions for Municipalities. Joseph Rende, Director of Business Development and Jesse Scott, Municipal Program Manager, New York Power . Authority.

AssociAtion of towns

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FeBruary 18 - 21, 2018

Association of Towns • 12

Monday Sessions

Wifi Network & Passcode: AOT2018

Opening General Session

Keynote Speaker: New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli

8:45 a.m., Broadway Ballroom, 6th Floor

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli returns to provide an update. Also, join us for a special presentation in recognition of the 20 founding Associatio of Towns members.

Valuation of Assisted Living Facilities*

John Zukowski, MAI, SRA, IAO, President, Emminger, Newton, Pigeon & Magyar, Inc.

10:00 a.m. – 5:20 p.m., Harlem Room, 7th Floor

This full-day seminar is an introductory primer to valuing assisted living facilities. We will start with a short history and description of different types of facilities. This allows a better understanding of specific market factors for these facilities. Next, we get into the three approaches to value. In the Income Approach, we discuss private pay versus public, typical expenses and capitalization rate selection. Lastly, we discuss a case study specific to Tax Certiorari by analyzing the real estate, personal property and business value. Class participants are expected to bring a calculator to the session. NYS DOS will award six continuing education credits to NYS Licensed Appraisers.

* Any hour is eligible for one Certified Town Official credit in the Assessor/RPT Issues area.

Municipal Annexation: Part 1

Kathleen Bennett, Esq., Bond Schoeneck & King, PLLC

• CLE Track

10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m., Astor Ballroom, 7th Floor

Beginning with an overview of New York State’s local government structure including authority to provide services and relationship to taxation, this session will provide an overview of the annexation process and related special issues, discuss the reasons for annexation and examine the potential impacts associated with annexation.

Water-based Fire Protection Plan Review*

Dominick Kasmauskas, National Fire Sprinkler Association

• Code Enforcement Officers Track

10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m., Gramercy/Herald/Soho, 7th Floor

This presentation is taken directly from the NFSA 14-hour (two-day) Plan Review Seminar. This presentation is a quick overview of the several required points that must be included with plan submittals. These key points raise important questions that need to be answered and prepared by the fire sprinkler layout technicians, engineers of record and plan examiners to ensure that the proper fire sprinkler system and/or standpipe is being drawn and approved for a given occupancy and commodity within that occupancy.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Code Enforcement area.

LED Street Lighting Conversions for Municipalities

Joseph Rende, Director of Business Development and Jesse Scott, Municipal Program Manager, New York Power Authority

10:30 a.m. - 11:20 a.m., Imperial/Juilliard, 5th Floor

As material costs decrease and technology improves, many municipalities are opting to convert their roadway lighting to LED. Replacing existing streetlights with energy-efficient LEDs will reduce maintenance and operating expenses, improve the visibility and safety of the roadways, and reduce your carbon footprint. NYPA will review the process of purchasing the lights from your utility and implementation methods of converting to LED.

Social Media and Liability Pitfalls*

Sarah Brancatella, Associate Counsel, Association of Towns and Susan O’Rorke, Vice President Member Services, Wright Risk Management

10:30 a.m. – 11:20 a.m., Belasco/Broadhurst, 5th Floor

Towns face a challenging landscape with the rise of Facebook, Twitter and other social media forums. Issues impacting governments include transparency, reputation, constituent access, acceptable use by municipal


Monday Sessions

Live Tweeting: #AOT2018

employees, law enforcement, recordkeeping and general liability. Learn to navigate this terrain in a way that enhances your ability to govern as well as control the way this powerful force affects communication in your community.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Town Board Member area.

Working Together for a Better New York: A Conversation with the Conference of Mayors and Association of Towns

Peter A. Baynes, Executive Director, New York Conference of Mayors and Gerald K. Geist, Executive Director, Association of Towns of the State of New York

10:30 a.m. - 11:20 a.m., Alvin/Carnegie, 5th Floor

Join the leaders of the statewide advocates for cities, towns and villages for a discussion on working together for a better New York, the 2018 state budget and the current state of affairs affecting local governments.

Surviving a PESH Inspection and Improving Department Safety*

Robert K. Blaisdell, Senior Loss Control Specialist, Municipal Workers’ Compensation Alliance

10:30 a.m. - 11:20 a.m., Booth/Edison, 5th Floor

Training presentation will focus on the process, purpose and scope of NYS Department of Labor Public Employee Safety and Health Bureau Inspection Program, including the responsibilities of municipalities. We will review the top violations these inspections uncover, along with the best corrective action implementations. Training will also focus on improving risk management in your municipal department, including policy and facility improvements to control fire loss, improve health conditions, and maintain safe workplaces.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Superintendent of Highways area.

A Blueprint for Grant Action: Part I – Developing Your Funding Plan

Benjamin H. Syden, AICP, Vice President, Laberge Group and Nicole T. Allen, AICP, Planning Services Manager, Laberge Group

10:30 a.m. - 11:20 a.m., Plymouth/Uris/Shubert, 6th Floor

Participants will be guided through an interactive workshop as we discuss how to develop a funding plan; how to determine project goals and objectives; and how to tailor each of these items to the participant’s needs. Each participant will receive a worksheet to fill in and to share ideas as a group during the discussion period.

The Taxability of Fiber Optic Cable under the Real Property Tax Law*

Scott Shedler, IAO, Assessor, Town of Ramapo and Executive Board Member, New York State Assessors Association and Dylan Harris, Esq., Associate, Lewis & Greer, P.C.

10:30 a.m. - 11:20 a.m., Majestic, 6th Floor

Municipalities are suffering a diminished property tax base due to the exempt status of fiber optics. The courts are currently considering cases over the taxability of fiber optics. The presenters will discuss what fiber optic is and how it is taxed, as well as a discussion of the status of the pending court of appeals case on the matter.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Assessor/RPT Issues area.

Municipal Clerks’ Institute: Working with Consultants - How to Increase Your Potential for Success

Diana Smith, Director of Business Development, MRB Group, and former Mayor of Seneca Falls and Scott Burto, Mayor, Village of West Carthage, and Owner, WCP Consultants, Planning and Grant Writing Services

• Town Clerk Track

10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Empire/Hudson, 7th Floor

This session will provide planning tools that help municipal staff get optimal results from consultant-driven projects. New York Municipal Clerks Institute will provide two hours of credit toward NYMCI certification to attendees of the


Monday Sessions


entirety of this session.

No, You Cannot Prepay Your Taxes Five Years in Advance and Other Things You Never Thought You’d Say: Hot Topics in Real Property Tax Collection*

Katie Hodgdon, Associate Counsel, Association of Towns of the State of New York

• Tax Collecting Officer Track

10:30 a.m. - 11:20 a.m., Chelsea/Gotham, 7th Floor

The tax collecting cycle often produces seemingly unanswerable questions. This session will discuss some of the more interesting situations that have arisen in collecting offices over the past year including how to address the taxpayer that insists you have the authority to waive interest fees, school tax collection issues, members of the military and deferred payments, and that super-hot issue of accepting prepayments.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Tax Collector/Receiver of Taxes area.

New York Energy Code for Supervisors, Board Members, Planning and ZBA Members*

Michael DeWein, Manager of Strategic Programs, Leidos Inc.

10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Duffy/Columbia, 7th Floor

This two-hour course is designed to familiarize municipal officials, building code officials, and other important decision-makers with the NYS Energy Conservation Construction Code and the role third-party energy professionals can take to assure energy code compliance and the subsequent benefits. The course will include an overview of the energy code, information on resources available to assist with energy code compliance, including introduction to the services and value of energy professionals, and case studies that illustrate the successful implementation of energy professionals into existing design, construction and enforcement processes. Attendees will leave this course familiar with: the code; challenges and opportunities associated with enforcing compliance with the energy code; provisions that permit the use of third-party energy professional services; and

applicable, real-world, municipal-focused case studies.


Municipal Annexation: Part 2

Kathleen Bennett, Esq., Bond Schoeneck & King, PLLC

• CLE Track

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Astor Ballroom, 7th Floor

Beginning with an overview of New York State’s local government structure including authority to provide services and relationship to taxation, this session will provide an overview of the annexation process and related special issues, discuss the reasons for annexation and examine the potential impacts associated with annexation.

Water-based Fire Protection Plan Review (Cont.)*

Dominick Kasmauskas, National Fire Sprinkler Association


11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Gramercy/Herald/Soho, 7th Floor

This presentation is taken directly from the NFSA 14-hour (two-day) Plan Review Seminar. This presentation is a quick overview of the several required points that must be included with plan submittals. These key points raise important questions that need to be answered and prepared by the fire sprinkler layout technicians, engineers of record and plan examiners to ensure that the proper fire sprinkler system and/or standpipe is being drawn and approved for a given occupancy and commodity within that occupancy.


Good Town Roads: 10 Things the Board Needs to Know

David Orr, P.E., Director, Cornell Local Roads Program

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Imperial/Juilliard, 5th Floor

Whether you are brand new to the board or you are the voice of experience, there are many things to be aware of regarding one of the largest departments in most towns. During this session, David will review 10 things that make good town roads and how the board can help.


Monday Sessions



2017 Fiscal Stress Survey – Overriding the Property Tax Cap: Who, Where, and Why; & Leveraging Non-Profit PILOTS

Austin Aldag, Masters Student, Department of City and Regional Planning, Cornell University; Mark Cassidy, Masters Student, Department of City and Regional Planning, Cornell University; Kenneth McLaurin, Jr., Financial Educator, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County; Alice Rayner, Undergraduate, Department of City and Regional Planning, Cornell University; and Mildred Warner, Professor, Department of City and Regional Planning, Cornell University [email protected]

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Belasco/Broadhurst, 5th Floor

In 2017, more than 509 New York towns responded to Cornell University’s statewide local government Fiscal Stress Survey. This session will present the survey results on major causes of fiscal stress and some local responses. There is a geography to fiscal stress – it hits upstate New York harder. What are the most common responses to fiscal stress in NYS? What can we learn from tax caps and their effects in other states? Tax-exempt land is an important contributor to fiscal stress, and some communities are negotiating new partnership agreements. Come discuss strategies employed in municipalities across the state and in the Northeast region. Fiscal stress is a deepening challenge – which requires new strategies, a little push back and a dose of humor.

Learn About the New York Municipal Energy Program

Javier Barrios, Managing Partner and Edward Carey, Director of Energy, Good Energy

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Alvin/Carnegie, 5th Floor

Town officials will learn how the newly formed New York Municipal Energy Program (NYMEP) can help your town or municipality. Topics include municipal cooperative energy buying as a Shared Service and Community Choice Aggregation, a new statewide order promoted by NYSERDA to help town residents save on energy costs. NYMEP is sponsored by the Association of Towns and

the New York Conference of Mayors.

Knowing Your Adirondack and Catskill Parks

William Farber, Supervisor, Town of Morehouse and Jeff Senterman, Executive Director, Catskill Center

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Booth/Edison, 5th Floor

An oasis for recreation and home to many local governments, these two regions provide an abundance of unique challenges and opportunities. This session will focus on the two constitutional state parks in a manner that will be educational for elected Officials from throughout the state. From amazing recreational access, to a source of clean drinking water for millions, these two magnificent areas of the state are much misunderstood albeit much enjoyed by millions.

A Blueprint for Grant Action: Part II – Identifying Funding Sources and Developing the Background Material for your Funding Quilt

Benjamin H. Syden, AICP, Vice President, Laberge Group and Nicole T. Allen, AICP, Planning Services Manager, Laberge Group

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Plymouth/Uris/Shubert, 6th Floor

Following a short break, we will continue with a PowerPoint discussion on funding sources typically available for New York State municipalities. Each participant will receive a Funding Quilt worksheet to help identify potential grants, timelines, backup material and the fiscal match requirement necessary to implement their project. We will discuss key elements that various agencies require and how to increase participants’ opportunities. Finally, case studies will be provided as examples to follow as each town embarks upon their individual needs in 2018.

Communicating and Understanding Financial Reports*

William Naylor, Local Official Training Unit, Division of Local Government and School Accountability, Office of the State Comptroller

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Majestic, 6th Floor

This session will help you better understand and utilize


Monday Sessions


financial reports in your town. We will discuss the role of both external and internal reports, and then go into detail on how to comprehend and analyze the figures presented in three reports – the budget status report, bank reconciliation and balance sheet.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Supervisor area.

Municipal Clerks’ Institute: Working with Consultants - How to Increase Your Potential for Success (Cont.)

Diana Smith, Director of Business Development, MRB Group, and former Mayor of Seneca Falls and Scott Burto, Mayor, Village of West Carthage, and Owner, WCP Consultants, Planning and Grant Writing Services



This session will provide planning tools that help municipal staff get optimal results from consultant-driven projects. New York Municipal Clerks Institute will provide two hours of credit toward NYMCI certification to attendees of the entirety of this session.

New Legislation and Pending Real Property Tax Legal Issues*

• Tax Collecting Officers Track

Joseph Gerberg, Associate Attorney and Hannelore (Lori) Smith, Senior Attorney, New York State Department of Taxation and Finance; and Katie Hodgdon, Associate Counsel, Association of Towns of the State of New York

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Chelsea/Gotham, 7th Floor

A comprehensive review of legislation enacted in 2017 that affects tax collecting officers, as well as a look at what the Legislature has in store for 2018. Following the legislative update, the panel will take questions.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Tax Collector/ Receiver of Taxes area.

Municipal Official’s Guide to Short-Term Rental Regulations

Mark Cuthbertson, Esq., Law Offices of Mark A. Cuthbertson

• CLE Track

1:00 p.m. - 1:50 p.m., Astor Ballroom, 7th Floor

This presentation will examine the arguments for and against short-term rentals, using AirBnB as an example, and discuss different regulatory tools available to municipal officials to regulate such activity. The presentation will then look at the real-world application of these concepts by comparing regulations in three municipalities, each of which had adopted its own distinct approach to short-term rentals.

Installing Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing Systems to Meet NYS Residential and Fire Gas Codes

Bob Torbin, Owner, Omegaflex


1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m., Gramercy/Herald/Soho, 7th Floor

Among the major changes to the 2016 editions of the New York State Fuel Gas Code and Residential Code are: new requirements for electrical bonding of CSST to the grounding electrode system; revised requirements for protection against mechanical threats; and an update on prohibited installation practices. This training course will cover these revisions to the NYS codes as well as a review of other recommended installation practices, the general principles for sizing of and layouts for CSST gas piping systems, and minimum requirements for inspection, repair and system testing.

The Real Cost of Roads*

David Orr, P.E., Director, Cornell Local Roads Program

2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m., Imperial/Juilliard, 5th Floor

The cost to build and maintain town highways is just part of the cost to the users. There are hidden costs that need to be included when deciding what work should be done. During this session, David will explain the real costs of roads including ways to manage your roads under the tax cap.



Monday Sessions


Achieving the Benefits of GIS for Municipalities: Part 1

Timothy P. Taber, PE, BCEE, Sr. Asset Mgmt. Consultant, Barton & Loguidice

2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m., Belasco/Broadhurst, 5th Floor

Geographic Information System (GIS) is a powerful tool used to organize large amounts of data into easily accessible digital maps. GIS can be a useful tool for a municipality, as it can be used for capital planning, cost-saving measures, land planning, asset management, disaster planning and a variety of other functions. Geographic information is the key to better decision-making – just about everything a town, business or public agency does, whether in day-to-day operations or long-term planning, is related to its geography.

When the Grants Chips Fall, What Do You Do Now?

Jim Thatcher, Manager, Community Development, C.T. Male

2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m., Alvin/Carnegie, 5th Floor

You were invited to Albany last December and walked away with a big cardboard check for your project. Or, that phone call never came. Either way, what do you do now? This session will navigate the challenging grant implementation process for recent CFA winners, and we will dissect what you can do to enhance your funding strategies for great projects that weren’t chosen. There is too much at stake for your community to give up because of complex contract rules and administrative requirements, or because your project didn’t make the cut. The chips may fall, but you are never down in the great grants game.

Claim & Liability Aspects of Problematic Public Works Events*

Thomas Lalor, Esq., Vice President, Casualty Claims, Wright Risk Management, NYMIR Division and Kevin Crawford, Esq., Executive Director, New York Municipal Insurance Reciprocal

2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m., Booth/Edison, 5th Floor

Two experts in municipal liability will take a deep dive into the most frequent claims that plague public works and highway departments and how best to protect municipal budgets from the exposure they represent.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Superintendent

of Highways area.

Health Insurance 101: Terminology, Trends and Tips*

Thomas Augostini, Board Member, Town of Union and Employee Benefits Consultant, Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.

2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m., Plymouth/Uris/Shubert, 6th Floor

Health insurance, for both active employees and retirees, has been and continues to be one of the largest and fastest-growing portions of a municipal budget. In order for local officials to try to rein in these costs, it is essential that they have a clear understanding of the terminology and mechanics of their health plans/policies. This session will cover health insurance terms, options, pricing and trends, as well as how healthcare laws/legislation impact health insurance plans. Bring your questions and concerns as there will be time set aside for Q&A.


Proper Use of Appropriated Fund Balance*

Dan Acquilano, Local Official Training Unit, Division of Local Government and School Accountability, Office of the State Comptroller

2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m., Majestic, 6th Floor

The failure to understand what appropriated fund balance means, how to use it properly and what happens if it is included in the budget is a common trend in our audit reports. Join OSC in a discussion about appropriating fund balance and learn best practices if appropriated fund balance is used in your budget.


Birth, Death and Marriage Certificates and Filings, Part 1*

Gary G. Martinez, Vital Records Unit, New York State Department of Health


2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m., Empire/Hudson, 7th Floor

A DOH representative will present on and answer questions related to birth, death, and marriage certificates and filings. This session also will provide an update on the


Monday Sessions


Electronic Death Registration System.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Town Clerk area.

Interactive Tax Servicing to Better Serve Customers and Tax Collectors*

Kelly Renfrow, Client Service Consultant, Wells Fargo


2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m., Chelsea/Gotham, 7th Floor

This session will discuss the relationship between tax collectors/receivers of taxes and the banks. Items to be explored include: how the lender-placed escrow process works and the enhanced interaction with property owners; partnerships to improve response times to property owner tax issues/questions/concerns; working with county real property tax directors to electronically bank code tax bills where possible; and efforts to more accurately calculate escrow for property owners who have tax exemptions.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Tax Collector/ Receiver of Taxes area.

Propane Bulk Storage Facilities Approval & Inspection Checklist

John Hart, NYPGA Emergency Response Committee Co-Chair, President of Duck Harbor Energy, LLC

2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m., Duffy/Columbia, 7th Floor

This program is for anyone who is responsible for approval and oversight of a propane bulk storage facility in their community. It is a look at propane bulk storage facility requirements that apply to the approval, installation and inspection of the facility and equipment as per federal and state regulations. It gives access to tools and checklists to simplify the process.

Major Project Review

Dominic Cordisco, Partner, Drake Loeb PLLC and Rick Golden, Partner, Burke, Miele, Golden and Naughton, LLP

• CLE Track


Large projects that require comprehensive planning

and environmental reviews are often controversial – and frequently, even seemingly minor projects can stir public interest. But now, social media brings with it the instantaneous spread of information, opinion, and even fake news. This program will provide recommendations on handling projects with a high level of public interest and social media engagement, and how those efforts fit into a modern SEQRA review and approval process that was created long before Facebook and Twitter existed.

The Dirt on the New Part 360: New Regulations of Surplus Soil, Gravel, Concrete, Rubble, Road Millings, Ditch Cuttings and Scrap Metal*

Mark P. Millspaugh, P.E., President, Sterling Environmental Engineering, P.C.


Recently promulgated revisions to New York’s Solid Waste Management Regulations are a game changer that will affect routine municipal operation. The practice of bringing surplus materials back to the boneyard to add to the stockpile will be subject to testing and recordkeeping requirements, storage limitations, reporting requirements and reuse restrictions. Some operations will be subject to registration or permitting as a solid waste management facility.

This presentation will address the new requirements and restrictions imposed by 6 NYCRR 360, particularly with respect to impacts on routine municipal operations.


Achieving the Benefits of GIS for Municipalities: Part 2

Timothy P. Taber, PE, BCEE, Sr. Asset Mgmt. Consultant, Barton & Loguidice


Geographic Information System (GIS) is a powerful tool used to organize large amounts of data into easily accessible digital maps. Geographic information is the key to better decision-making – just about everything a town, business or public agency does, whether in day-to-day operations or long-term planning, is related to its geography.


Monday Sessions


Oak Wilt

Jennifer Kotary, Oak Wilt Operations Coordinator, Division of Lands and Forests - Forest Health, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation


Oak wilt is one of the most important tree diseases in the eastern United States. It can kill oak trees in as little time as two to six weeks. If oak wilt spreads, thousands of oaks could die annually in New York. Loss of oak trees could lead to decreases in property values, money visitors spend within towns, money saved in heating/cooling costs, the quality of life for residents that lose trees, and wildlife habitat. This session from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation will provide a short history and biology of oak wilt and discuss existing strategies for municipal mitigation of the disease, including partnerships with the state and other localities.

Feral Cat Control Efforts: A Review of the Literature and Efforts in the State

John B. Davis, PhD, Biology Department, University at Albany


Feral and free-roaming domestic cats have been accused of destroying wildlife, causing property damage and disturbance, endangering other domestic pets and posing health risks for humans. These issues are a growing problem across New York State, where the burden of these impacts is most felt at the local government level. This session will discuss a literature review of the impacts of free-roaming cats, the effectiveness of management and control techniques that are currently being employed, and the control measures that have been enacted at the local level in New York State.

New York State Article 47 Health Insurance Consortiums 101*

Maureen Pelose, Area Vice President, Arthur J. Gallagher and Company


This presentation will provide a description and education

on New York State Article 47 Health Insurance Consortiums. It will include some history on this law, a description of the formation and implementation of an Article 47 Consortium. Additionally, the requirements of eligibility to form or join an Article 47 and the process thereof. Some testimonial on recent successes in New York State as well as some barriers in achieving success. Town supervisors and board members may wish to consider this session.


Ask the Auditors

Local Official Training Unit, Division of Local Government and School Accountability, Office of the State Comptroller


This session will allow local officials to ask OSC staff questions in an open forum.

Birth, Death and Marriage Certificates and Filings, Part 2*

Gary G. Martinez, Vital Records Unit, New York State Department of Health



A DOH representative will present on and answer questions related to birth, death, and marriage certificates and filings. This session also will provide an update on the Electronic Death Registration System.


Inclusive Programming and Structural Access for Individuals with Disabilities*

Dot Marinaccio, Regional Business Relations Coordinator, Central NY Region, Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation, New York State Department of Education; and Katie Hodgdon, Associate Counsel, Association of Towns of the State of New York


This interactive program is designed to provide an understanding of disability in our communities and to review the obligations of municipalities to provide


Monday Sessions


programmatic and physical access for the public. The program will include a brief overview of the Americans with Disabilities Act and its interplay with local government. Specific examples and case scenarios will be discussed, as well as a review of resources for accommodations and other disability-related information.


Ethics, Cloud Computing and Social Media for Attorneys

• CLE Track

Sarah Gold, Esq., of Counsel, DeFio Kean PLLC


Learn how to be ethically sure-footed in the slippery arena of social media and cloud computing as an attorney. You don’t have to be a geek to make it work for you. As technology changes, so do your ethical obligations, and this program can help bring you up to speed so that you know what you should and should not do.

Performance Compliance Method of the 2015 International Code


Brian Tollisen, Division of Building Standards and Codes, New York State Department of State

3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Gramercy/Herald/Soho, 7th Floor

This class will describe how to use the Performance Compliance Method of the 2015 International Existing Building Code and how this method is different from the other compliance paths within the code. Modifying an existing building with this method allows compliance to be achieved by giving the design professional options and trade-offs with fire and life safety requirements.

Current Trends In Wireless Telecommunications Small Cell Technology

Mark Coon, Principal Engineer, Verizon Wireless; Scott Olson, Esq. and David Brennan, Esq., Young Sommer LLC


This presentation will discuss current trends in wireless

telecommunications with a primary focus on small cell technology, including an introduction into the function and design of wireless networks, the use and role of small cell antennas, the locations for deployment, their role within the larger telecommunications network, the limitations of placement on utility poles, legal principles associated with obtaining permission to occupy local, county and state rights of ways and potential land use and zoning issues associated with such facilities.

LED Street Light Conversion: The Power of Aggregation for Small Communities

Robert McKeon, Supervisor, Town of Red Hook; Pat Courtney Strong, Project Manager, Mid-Hudson Street Light Consortium and President, Courtney Strong Inc.; and Jen Metzger, Phd, Board Member, Town of Rosendale


Municipalities statewide are moving toward conversion to money- and energy-saving LED street lights. For smaller communities, however, the cost and logistics of such a transition can be daunting. Hear about an innovative purchase/installation/maintenance aggregation being led by the towns of Red Hook (Dutchess County) and Rosendale (Ulster County). Attendees will gain a working knowledge of the key financial and technological decisions that municipalities must make before undertaking LED conversion.

A Review and Comparison of Municipal Solar Codes*

Frank Palumbo, Senior Landscape Architect, and Olya Prevo-White, Solar Energy Project Engineer, C.T. Male Associates


It is natural to look at the communities around you while your town works toward developing land use code regarding solar development. At this session, C.T. Male Associates will compare a variety of adopted codes and share our experiences working within these municipalities with this very issue. A better understanding of the physical applications, restrictions and results of the code requirements can help reduce potential conflicts.



Monday Sessions


Site Plan Approval*

Corey A. Auerbach, Partner, Barclay Damon LLP


The general purposes of adopting standards and procedures for site plan review and approval are to assure that the development of individual sites does not affect surrounding properties negatively and that the community develops in an orderly and cost-effective fashion. This session will discuss what you can, should and must be doing for a bulletproof decision.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Planning/Zoning area.

Leveraging Medicare To $ave Taxpayer Dollar$

Neal Klein, President, Neal Klein Agency, Inc.


This session explains a very simple way to more efficiently acquire medical coverage for retirees and employees who are covered by Medicare. We will discuss a way to dramatically reduce premiums and costs for care for Medicare-eligible members.

Analyzing Financial Condition

Jay Phillips, Local Official Training Unit, Division of Local Government and School Accountability, Office of the State Comptroller


This session will help you analyze the financial condition of your town. We will discuss key factors to review when assessing your town’s fiscal health and how this information can affect decision-making. We will also discuss recent enhancements made to the State Comptroller’s Fiscal Stress Monitoring System.

Fiscal Responsibility for Town Clerks*

William Naylor, Local Official Training Unit, Division of Local Government and School Accountability, Office of the State Comptroller



This session will assist town clerks in understanding their major financial duties and responsibilities.


When are Municipalities, School Districts, and Other Entities Immune from Local Zoning?*

Robert S. Rosborough IV, Partner, Whiteman Osterman & Hanna LLP


From the Court of Appeals’ foundational decision in Monroe County to the most recent zoning immunity decision from the Appellate Division, Third Department in the Town of Bethlehem, zoning immunity has been a tough concept to apply in practice. This presentation will take a look at the court cases, statutes and rules governing when municipalities, school districts and others are immune from local zoning laws, and provide a few tips on how to proceed when your town faces the issue.


Governments, Lawyers, and the Ethics of Disobedience*

Andrew Ayers, Esq., Director of the Government Law Center, Albany Law School

• CLE Track


What happens when government lawyers act against the interests of the governments they serve? This session will examine the legal and ethical principles that apply to cases in which government lawyers have defied professional norms by refusing to defend — or even sabotaging — the actions and goals of the governments for which they work.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Attorney/Legal area.


Tuesday Sessions


Tuesday Morning Breakfast

Keynote Speaker: United States Senator Charles E. Schumer

7:30 a.m., Broadway Ballroom, 6th Floor

US Sen. Chuck Schumer returns this year to provide an update on local government in New York State from the federal perspective. Seating for the breakfast starts promptly at 7:30.

Division of Building Standards and Codes: Update*

John Addario, Director, New York State Department of State, Division of Building Standards and Codes


9:00 a.m. - 9:50 a.m., Gramercy/Herald/Soho, 7th Floor

This program will explain the Uniform Code and the Energy Code including key changes to these codes. It will also note changes that have already taken place to these new codes, which are found in NYCRR. The second part of the program will discuss events currently taking place at the Department of State Codes Division.


A Conversation with Newly Elected and Veteran Officials

Kevin Beckford, Board Member, Towns of Pittsford; Edward Fairbrother, Supervisor, Town of Big Flats; Brian Kulpa, Supervisor, Town of Amherst; Ray Oberly, Supervisor, Town of Clinton; Yasmine Syed, Supervisor, Town of Niskayuna,; and Robin Reynolds Wilt, Board Member, Town of Brighton

Moderator: Gerry Geist, Executive Director, Association of Towns

10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m., Belasco/Broadhurst 5th Floor

Our executive director, Gerry Geist, invites you to join him as well as veteran and newly elected town officials in a roundtable discussion addressing the challenges faced by towns today and some insight on how officials can rise to the occasion. As moderator, Gerry will pose a set of questions to the panel for discussion, which will then be opened to the audience for input.

Municipal Efficiency: What Does It Really Mean?

Diana Smith, Director of Business Development, MRB Group, former Mayor of Seneca Falls and Harrison Schutzer, Business Development Coordinator, MRB Group

10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m., Imperial/Juilliard, 5th Floor

This session breaks down what can often be an overwhelming discussion on increasing efficiency. Topics include: how do local governments achieve efficiency? What more can towns do? Where does a town begin? Should “shared services” or “consolidation” be considered?

Capital Improvement Plans: The Key to Long-term Community Viability

Michael Cashman, Supervisor, Town of Plattsburgh; Ronald J. Laberge, PE, Executive Vice President, Laberge Group

10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m., Alvin/Carnegie, 5th Floor

The Town of Plattsburgh has embarked on a multiyear, $24 million Water and Wastewater Capital Improvement Plan built upon the three pillars of health and safety, sustainability and economic development, which identifies the needed improvements to sustain and improve its public works while simultaneously balancing the cost burden on taxpayers. Come join the town supervisor as he details the behind-the-scenes process for the development of the CIP, and the consensus-building techniques that were necessary in the adoption of this critical financial and infrastructure plan.

Financial Analysis of Shared Services and Intermunicipal Cooperation

Christopher Grant, Division of Local Government Services, New York State Department of State

10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m., Booth/Edison, 5th Floor

Working cooperatively with neighboring communities can help local governments implement shared solutions to common problems and generate new service delivery capacities. Cooperation enables local governments to reduce the cost of services without compromising the


Tuesday Sessions


quality of service delivery. This course will examine the benefits of cooperation through case studies and analysis of the financial implications of actual cooperative projects funded by the New York State Department of State’s Local Government Efficiency Program.

Introduction to Planning and Zoning*

Donald Young, Esq., Partner at Boylan Code, LLP

10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m., Plymouth/Uris/Shubert, 6th Floor

This course will explore the key elements of planning and zoning for towns in New York, including discussing the comprehensive plan, zoning districts and buzzwords like “precedent,” “grandfathering” and “spot zoning.” We will also look at the duties of the planning board and zoning board of appeals. This planning and zoning overview will be beneficial to town board members, planning board members and zoning board of appeals members alike, as both a refresher to experienced members and as an introduction to new members.


Fiscal Accountability for Town Boards*

Dan Acquilano, Local Official Training Unit, Division of Local Government and School Accountability, Office of the State Comptroller

10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m., Majestic, 6th Floor

Understanding the level of responsibility in town finances is the first step in successfully managing the town. This session will focus on key functions and best practices, including budget responsibilities, interim reporting, audit of claims and annual audit requirements.


Affordable Care Act: Keep your Municipality Compliant

Michael Grinnell, Vice President and Kirsten Tudman, Vice President, CPI-HR

10:00 a.m. - 10:50 a.m., Harlem, 7th Floor

While Congress continues to explore options for the current law, the Affordable Care Act remains the law of the land.

Mike and Kirsten have just returned from ACA Capital Conference held in DC with the latest directly from HHS, IRS and congressional speakers. Attend this session to hear 2018 employer requirements, challenges and changes.

Mail Room Security: Best Practices and Procedures*

Charles Schriver, Inspector, U.S. Postal Inspection Service


• Tax Collecting Officers Track

10:00 a.m. - 10:50 a.m., Chelsea/Gotham, 7th Floor

The presentation consists of a brief history of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and some of the priority cases the agency has investigated involving suspicious mailings. We will cover characteristics of suspicious mailings, equipment used by the USPIS to assist in identifying suspicious substances, and recommended best procedures for employees who encounter suspicious items/mailings.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Town Clerk or Tax Collector/Receiveer of Taxes area.

NYS Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG): Resources for Infrastructure, Housing, Economic Development and Planning

Charles Philion, Program Director, New York State Division of Homes and Community Renewal

10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m., Duffy/Columbia, 7th Floor

Learn how NYS CDBG funds provide eligible communities in New York with opportunities to undertake activities that focus on addressing local public infrastructure and public facilities needs, providing safe, affordable housing and creating or expanding job opportunities for low- and moderate income individuals.

Vacant and Unsafe Properties: Tales from the Crypt*

Laura Moore Smith, Esq., Harter Secrest & Emery LLP

• CLE Track

10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m., Astor Ballroom, 7th Floor

When unpaid demolition costs for zombie homes hit


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town tax bills, our county determined that it could no longer guarantee property maintenance and demolition costs incurred by towns. This session will explore the legal process behind demolishing unsafe homes and the court’s determination that these charges must be guaranteed by counties under New York State Law. This session is ideal for supervisors, town board members, code enforcement officers and town attorneys who want to learn more about what towns can do to fight zombie properties.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Attorney/Legal Issues area.

ICC Evaluation Service Overview

Dorothy Harris, Vice-President, State and Local Government Relations, ICC Evaluation Services


10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m., Gramercy/Herald/Soho, 7th Floor

This course will be a general overview of ICC Evaluation Service and a description of services ES provides to code enforcement officials. This course will also explain: fundamentals of product certification, difference between an evaluation report and a listing and how to read, interpret and use each type of document.

Your Town’s Comprehensive Energy Master Plan: Save Money While Building Resiliency

Keith Krug, Senior Associate Principal; Brian Sibiga, Senior Associate Principal; Adam Tabelski, Account Manager; and Gerald Summe, Executive Vice President, Wendel Companies

11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Imperial/Juilliard, 5th Floor

In this session, we will discuss the benefits of energy and operational efficiency for town governments to reduce expenses in your annual budget. This will allow you to do more with your budget, while avoiding tax increases. We will review multiple opportunities to reduce your energy bills such as water and wastewater treatment process upgrades, lighting improvements, HVAC equipment replacements, renewable technologies and LED street lighting. We will also discuss current policies, procurement and availability of grants and incentives. Instead of paying

money to the utility companies, you can funnel it into improving your infrastructure.

Working Together: The Relationship between Towns and the Court System*

Geoffrey A. Huth, Chief Records Officer, Unified Court System

11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Duffy/Columbia, 7th Floor

Most of the courts in New York State operate in a symbiotic relationship with local governments. This is the case at the county, town and village level. This relationship has its roots in the early years of the British colony of New York, but this developed further in the 20th century and continues to change even as it has stayed much the same for decades. This talk will discuss how and why towns and town courts remain integrated but separate, the rules that govern how they work together, and how, over the course of time, they share the custody and management of court records. The speaker will also discuss the role of the Office of Court Administration in these interrelationships. This talk will include deep conversation with the audience to examine how towns and town courts actually interact and how to foster that relationship. At the end, the speaker will discuss the management of records of closed town and village courts and related records issues.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Just/Courts area.

New York’s Zombie Property and Foreclosure Prevention Law: Litigation Options and Practical Considerations under The New Law*

Nicholas I. Vozzo, Esq., Associate, and Michael Risman, Associate, Hodgson Russ LLP

• CLE Track

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Astor Ballroom, 7th Floor

Zombie properties—mortgage-delinquent realty abandoned by owners, neglected by lenders, in disrepair and foreclosure limbo—blight each and every community across New York State. In 2016, the New York State Legislature passed significant reforms to New York’s Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law combating the zombie property crisis. This session will provide a detailed


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overview of the law’s underlying provisions; discuss the consequential impact zombie properties have on local communities; explore legal tools available under the law, against the backdrop of established, alternative means of addressing vacant and distressed properties; and offer practical considerations for those contemplating or facing litigation under the law.


Documentation and the Uniform Code, Part 1*

Gary Travers, Division of Building Standards and Codes, New York State Department of State


11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Gramercy/Herald/Soho, 7th Floor

Documentation is the key element to determining compliance. The Uniform Code, the 2015 International Codes, the 2017 Supplement and Title 19 NYCRR Regulations, make references to items that must be included in the plans and specifications for every new building. This two-hour course provides attendees with a general review of documentation that is required by the 2015 International Building Code and the 2015 Fire Code, including modifications by the 2017 Supplement to the NYSUFPBC and Part 1203 Title 19 NYCRR Regulations


Freedom of Information Law/Open Meeting Law Overview

Robert Freeman, Executive Director, Committee on Open Government, New York State Department of State

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Belasco/Broadhurst, 5th Floor

This session will focus on the Freedom of Information and Open Meetings laws. Brief descriptions of those laws and the functions of the Committee on Open Government will be offered, and questions will be answered throughout the program.

The Future of Telecommunications: Permitting and Impact Considerations for Small Cell and DAS Systems

Charles J. Gottlieb, Esq., Whiteman Osterman and Hanna and Adrian Berezowsky, LEED AP, Senior Managing Director, CBRE

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Alvin/Carnegie, 5th Floor

This session will provide a discussion on small cell and distributed antenna systems in municipal rights-of-way, compliance with the federal Telecommunications Act, and the FCC’s Wireless Facility Siting Section 6409.

Funding Opportunities for Water Infrastructure Projects

Jason Denno, Environmental Project and Clean Watershed Needs Survey Coordinator; Eric Eichenlaub, Deputy Counsel; Brian Hahn, Green Policy Planning and Infrastructure; Brock Rogers, Professional Engineer I; and Jennifer Sunkes, Assistant Finance Manager, NYS Environmental Facilities Corporation

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Booth/Edison, 5th Floor

The Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) consistently leads the nation in financing for water-quality infrastructure. EFC and Department of Health staff will provide an overview of EFC’s grant programs including the Water Infrastructure Improvement Act and the Intermunicipal Grant Program, as well as low cost financing available through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds.

Open Space Planning*

John-David "JD" Wood, Local Government Specialist, Department of Local Government Services, New York State Department of State and Catherine M. Hamlin, Local Government Specialist, Department of Local Government Services, New York State Department of State

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Plymouth/Uris/Shubert, 6th Floor

“They aren’t creating more land,” as the old saying goes. Open spaces — in the form of parks, preserves, farms and other rural landscapes — provide a wide variety of environmental, economic and quality of life social and cultural benefits to communities that extend beyond the obvious aesthetic beauty of undeveloped land. This session addresses the importance and benefits of preserving open


Tuesday Sessions


space and the tools to maintain rural character or conserve important parcels of land, depending on the needs of the municipality. Strategies for how communities might prioritize what open spaces to protect are also discussed.


The Legalities of Purchasing and Competitive Bidding

Mark Stevens, Legal Division, Office of the State Comptroller

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Majestic, 6th Floor

The Office of the State Comptroller’s Legal Division will discuss legal requirements for competitive bidding, including statutory amendments to the General Municipal Law § 103 and various exceptions to the bidding requirements.

Group Medicare: Health Insurance Option for Retirees

Tom Augostini, Employee Benefits Consultant, Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc and Board Member, Town of Union

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Harlem, 7th Floor

As municipalities continue to find ways to control costs, utilizing Medicare plans for their Medicare-eligible retiree population is gaining in popularity. This session will explain the basics of Group Medicare. You will see a real case study of transitioning retirees eligible for Medicare from a very rich traditional health insurance plan to a group Medicare plan and the successful results. This session will provide a better understanding of how group Medicare could be a game changer for your municipality.

Know Your Money: Detection and Responsibilities Concerning Counterfeit Currency*

Kyle Wilson, Special Agent and Cassidy Clayton, Special Agent, Counterfeit Currency Squad, New York Field Office, United States Secret Service




The presentation will provide an overview of the general characteristics and security features found in genuine

United States Federal Reserve Notes. The audience will hear about methods to detect counterfeit United States Federal Reserve Notes, and all will be provided with resource guides to assist in determining if a note is genuine. And finally, credit card fraud prevention measures will be discussed.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Town Clerk or Tax Collector/Receiver of Taxes area.

Municipal Role with Self-Driving Vehicles

Daniel A. Spitzer, Esq., Partner, and Charles W. Malcomb, Esq., Partner, Hodgson Russ LLP

• CLE Track


As Self-Driving or Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) become reality, they pose legal issues for every level of government. It is at the municipal level that most interaction with government will occur, such as enforcement of vehicle operations and licensing of private transit. Local governments are also primarily responsible for building and maintaining the road infrastructure. Other issues concern a municipality’s use of AVs within its own fleet, from public transit to heavy equipment, and the potential labor relations impact. We’ll take a look at the nascent field of AV law, the federal-state regulatory divide already developing and potential pre-emption issues, and how municipal responsibility and liability will fit into the developing legal landscape.

Documentation and the Uniform Code, Part 2

Gary Travers, Division of Building Standards and Codes, New York State Department of State



Documentation is the key element to determining compliance. The Uniform Code, the 2015 International Codes, the 2017 Supplement and Title 19 NYCRR Regulations, make references to items that must be included in the plans and specifications for every new building. This two-hour course provides attendees with a


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general review of documentation that is required by the 2015 International Building Code and the 2015 Fire Code, including modifications by the 2017 Supplement to the NYSUFPBC and Part 1203 Title 19 NYCRR Regulations


Navigating Solar in Your Community: New NYSERDA Resources & Assistance for Local Governments

Houtan Moaveni, Deputy Director, NY-Sun and NYS DG Interconnection Ombudsman


The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) recently released a revised and updated version of the New York Solar Guidebook for local governments. In addition to providing information, tools and step-by-step instructions to support local government efforts to develop solar energy resources and create clean energy jobs, the guidebook addresses the most pressing issues in New York State’s solar market today, including the State Environmental Quality Review process, siting solar projects in agricultural areas and payment-in-lieu-of-tax (PILOT) agreements.

Grant Opportunities from the Department of State

Kyle Wilber, Local Government Specialist, Department of State


The Department of State administers multiple grant programs designed to assist local governments in developing projects that promote municipal efficiency and community development. This session will provide attendees with specifics about programs housed within DOS. The session will also update attendees on the Municipal Consolidation and Efficiency Competition.

An Introduction to the Minority and Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) Program at NYS

Maria Herman, Director of Affirmative Action Programs, Office of Affirmative Action Programs, Department of State


New York State Executive Law, Article 15-A governs the

requirements for the participation of “certified” MWBEs, in New York State contracting opportunities. Under this law, all state agencies are charged with promoting equal employment opportunity and procurement opportunity on state contracts for minorities and women. The course will provide an introduction to the MWBE Program and grantees’ responsibilities, a description of the MWBE goals and tools for compliance, an explanation of the processes for MWBE utilization reporting (New York State Contract System), waiver request, MWBE certification, and other useful information.

Understanding Smart Cities

Daniel A. Spitzer, Partner and Mark T. Sweeney, Partner, Hodgson Russ LLP


From streets that automatically warn of developing potholes to information sharing that leads to significant energy reductions and service improvements, the Smart Cities initiative uses information and communication technologies to increase operational efficiency, share information with the public and improve both the quality of government services and citizen welfare. We’ll examine how data from devices and people is being used to reduce cost of services and crime, increase interaction between governments and citizens, and foster sustainable economic development and a better quality of life. We’ll also look at cybersecurity and privacy issues in this emerging area of municipal operation.

Special Use Permits*

John-David, "JD" Wood, Local Government Specialist, and Catherine M. Hamlin, Local Government Specialist, Department of Local Government Services, Department of State


Some uses require additional review and should be granted permission only if the application meets certain conditions, like gas stations, dog kennels and uses with drive-through windows. The special use permit is also used for development in environmentally sensitive zones with overlays. Scenarios in which the special use permit


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tool is most helpful will be discussed, along with rules local boards must follow for reviewing and approving applications for special use permits.

*Eligible for CTO credit in the Planning & Zoning area.

Pitfalls in Budgeting*

Thomas Plowinske, Local Official Training Unit, Division of Local Government and School Accountability, Office of the State Comptroller

2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m., Winter Garden/Music Box/Majestic, 6th Floor

OSC audits often reveal problems with municipal budgeting practices including unrealistic estimates; improper use of fund balance and failure to monitor the budget. We’ll discuss several common areas of concern and provide best practice suggestions and resources to help you avoid these pitfalls.


Regulating Perpetual “Going Out of Business” Sales

Gary S. Brown, Statewide Elder Abuse Coordinator & Assistant Attorney General-in-Charge, New York State Office of the Attorney General



This session will discuss the enforcement of General Business Law Article 29-F, Going out of Business Sales.

Another Year in the Field: a Roundtable with Veteran Collectors and Receivers

Cindy Goliber, Town Clerk/Receiver of Taxes, Town of Potsdam; Rebecca Haines, Town Clerk/Collector of Taxes, Town of Ellery; Lori Milne, Tax Collector, Town of Skaneateles; Donna Combs, Town Clerk/Collector of Taxes, Town of Warrensburg; Katie Hodgdon, Associate Counsel, Association of Towns


2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m., Chelsea/Gotham, 7th Floor

This interactive roundtable will feature a panel of veteran

collectors and receivers discussing frequently encountered issues in the world of tax collection – both legal and practical. Please bring any of your tax collecting-related inquiries to share and discuss!

Training for Municipal Employees Responsible for Residential Propane Installations

John Hart, NYPGA Emergency Response Committee Co-Chair, President of Duck Harbor Energy, LLC

2:00 p.m. - 2:50 p.m., Harlem, 7th Floor

We are offering access to training at no cost for anyone responsible for residence propane instillations. The courses highlight the rules, regulations and industry standards that govern the construction and installation of propane equipment in a residential and or commercial instillation and include listings of our employee training programs throughout the state and facilitate access for your employees.

Personnel Management: Corrective Action

Judith Crelin Mayle, Partner, and Melissa N. Knapp, Associate, Thomas, Drohan, Waxman, Petigrow & Mayle, LLP


Understanding employee counseling and discipline and avoiding potential pitfalls: Learn the differences between counseling and discipline; how to implement both and the process, laws and issues that impact employee counseling and discipline. Learn what information is important to limit your municipality's exposure to employee claims of discrimination or retaliation.

Harassment and Discrimination: Best Practices for Handling Reports and Complaints in the “Me Too” Era*

Jeffrey Swiatek, Partner, and Melanie J. Beardsley, Senior Associate, Hodgson Russ LLP

• CLE Track


Learn the newest developments in harassment and discrimination law for municipalities, including Governor Cuomo’s latest proposals for preventing workplace harassment. This presentation also addresses best practices


Tuesday Sessions


discrimination complaints. Jeff and Melanie will provide hypotheticals and examples of workplace behavior and pitfalls to avoid during investigations.


Overview of the 2017 Uniform Code Supplement*

Ronald Stark, Division of Building Standards and Codes, Department of State



This course is an overview of the major changes that have been made to the NYS Uniform Code Supplement. One of the changes to be discussed is Section 108, which deals with building permits, applications for building permits, construction inspections, stop work orders and operating permits.


Shared IT Services: The Digital Towpath Consortium

Jeanne Brown, Project Director, Digital Towpath and Paul Lent, Supervisor, Town of Galway and Chair of the Digital Towpath


For 18 years, the Digital Towpath has been a shared service providing IT services to New York municipal governments. Formed by an intermunicipal agreement, the 150-member municipally controlled consortium provides web hosting, e-mail services, electronics record management, archiving, IT security and specialty offerings. Come hear about the savings and benefits of being a member of the municipally controlled IT shared services group.

Dos and Don’ts of Managing Employee Disability Claims*

Jessica C. Moller, Member, Bond, Schoeneck & King PLLC


What to do and not do when an employee becomes disabled, including managing leaves of absence, providing reasonable accommodation and Civil Service Law options

for ending the employment relationship.


Managing Bad Behavior at Meetings*

Daniel A. Ruzow, Partner, Whiteman Osterman & Hanna


Many government officials have resigned to conducting public meetings that result in shouting matches. This session will explore how to manage controversial public meetings where bad behavior has the potential to obstruct local governance, including how to control public speaking and unruly audience members and techniques for encouraging good behavior through various legal mechanisms.


2020 Census: Updates and Next Steps

Michael Bopp, Special Assistant to the Deputy Secretary for Local Government, New York State Department of State


New York State and the United States Census Bureau will provide an update on the 2020 Census, with particular focus on the LUCA (Local Update of Census Addresses) process that is scheduled to commence in February 2018. The NYBBLES program developed by Cornell University, along with other resources being provided by NYS and by the Census Bureau, will be described, and best practices will be discussed. Census bureau staff will provide a demonstration and discussion of the GUPS software to be used in LUCA. This session will be a timely, hands-on description of how a municipality can work toward a full count in the short timeframe allowed by LUCA.

Personnel Management: Collective Bargaining 101

Judith Crelin Mayle, Partner, and Melissa N. Knapp, Associate, Thomas, Drohan, Waxman, Petigrow & Mayle, LLP


Participants will learn the basics of collective bargaining, including how to prepare for negotiations, who should be at the bargaining table, tips on negotiations and more.


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Historic Preservation*

John-David "JD" Wood, Local Government Specialist and Catherine M. Hamlin, Local Government Specialist, Department of Local Government Services, New York State Department of State


Historic buildings define the character of cities, villages and towns in New York and elsewhere. This course attempts to explain why, details what it means to preserve a place’s older and historic buildings and distinguishes the difference between listing a property on the National Register of Historic Places and local landmark and historic district regulation. Other perspectives that most people don’t consider when they think “historic preservation” will also be discussed, such as the environmental and economic benefits of historic preservation.


The Annual Update Document: Common Reporting Errors

Jay Phillips, Local Official Training Unit, Division of Local Government and School Accountability, Office of the State Comptroller


This session will discuss how to avoid errors when completing the Annual Update Document (AUD). The reporting errors most frequently identified by OSC staff will be explained. There will also be an overview of indebtedness, including bonds; bond anticipation notes; and revenue anticipation notes. The discussion will cover how to properly account for these instruments and how to report them in the Annual Update Document.

Retirement System Update

Colleen Gardner, Executive Deputy Comptroller, Retirement Services, Office of the State Comptroller

3:00 p.m. - 3:50 p.m., Harlem, 7th Floor

A representative of the New York State and Local Retirement System will update you on the new Retirement Online and highlight member and upcoming employer features.

Records Retention Programs for Towns*

Lorraine Hill, Regional Advisory Officer, New York State Archives



Retention and disposition is the most important aspect of records management. The town clerk as Records Management Officer (RMO) should try to ensure that the town follow retention schedules. This session will teach clerks and other town officials how to use the MU-I Records Retention and Disposition Schedule, provide advice on how to implement and enforce the schedules and will include discussion of the RMOs role in court records retention.


New York State Paid Family Leave: What Local Governments Need to Know*

Katie Hodgdon, Associate Counsel, Association of Towns and Barbara Van Epps, Deputy Director, New York Conference of Mayors

• CLE Track


In 2016, the state enacted a comprehensive paid family leave law requiring employers to provide paid leave benefits to employees, with implementation beginning on Jan. 1, 2018. This session will review the requirements of local governments and paid family leave, as well as the interaction of paid family leave benefits and other applicable laws in effect, including the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).


Q&A with the Association of Towns’ Legal Staff

Gerry Geist, Executive Director; Lori Mithen-DeMasi, Counsel; Sarah Brancatella, Associate Counsel; and Katie Hodgdon, Associate Counsel


This session offers an opportunity to ask attorneys from the Association of Towns your legal questions


Accounting for Capital Assets*

Thomas Plowinske, Local Official Training Unit, Division of Local Government and School Accountability, Office of the State Comptroller


A municipality’s inventory of capital assets often represents its most significant investment of resources. This session will cover the proper accounting for these valuable assets. We will also discuss best practices to ensure these assets are properly safeguarded from theft or loss.


Roundtable Discussion on Town Clerk Issues

Cindy Goliber, Town Clerk/Receiver of Taxes, Town of Potsdam ; Rebecca Haines, Town Clerk/Collector of Taxes, Town of Ellery; Elizabeth Neville, Town Clerk, Town of Southold; Tina Ward, Town Clerk/Collector of Taxes, Town of Cobleskill



This session will feature town clerks from both rural and urban areas to discuss issues related to their office, their staff and their constituents. Please join Becca, Betty, Cindy and Tina with your questions and stories and for a frank discussion.

Land Use Case Law Update*

Richard S. Finkel, Member, Bond Schoeneck & King PLLC

• CLE Track


This session will discuss recent cases and changes in the zoning, planning and SEQRA practice areas. The content will be for both attorneys and non-attorneys. Come hear the latest.


Light Frame Construction Details

Brian Tollisen, New York State Department of State, Division of Building Standards and Codes


4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Gramercy/Herald/Soho, 7th Floor

This course will discuss common framing mistakes that are found in light frame construction.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21Annual Business Meeting

Elizabeth Ann Neville, Presiding, AOT President and Town Clerk, Town of Southold

8:00 a.m., Astor Ballroom, 7th floor

Participation by accredited delegates/alternates of member towns. Election of officers, vote on legislative agenda and conduct other business. All welcome to observe.

2016 Commercial Energy Code Overview

Gary Travers, New York State Department of State, Division of Building Standards and Codes


9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m., Soho Complex, 7th Floor

This course is an overview of using the commercial part of the 2015 Energy Code book with the 2016 Commercial Energy Code Supplement. It will address key areas when the Energy Code Supplement amends sections in the Energy Code Book. It will also cover some of the mandatory sections in the code.

2016 Residential Energy Code Overview

Ronald Stark, New York State Department of State, Division of Building Standards and Codes


10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Soho Complex, 7th Floor

Tuesday / Wednesday Sessions



*This program has been approved by the NYS Judicial Institute in accordance with the requirements of the NYS CLE Board for a maximum of credit hours, of which credit hours can be applied to the Professional Practice Category and credit hour can be applied to the Ethics category of CLE credit.

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. LANDLORD/TENANT – MONEY JUDGMENTS AND SERVICE Presenters: Hon. Kevin McArdle, Martinsburg Town Court Justice Hon. Diane S. Turo, Associate Counsel, OJCS

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. ETHICS: CIVIC PARTICIPATION LIMITATIONS Presenters: Hon. Edward Borrelli, Retired, Advisory Committee on Judicial Ethics Hon. Daniel Angiolillo, Harrison Town Court Justice, Retired Judge Appellate Division, Second Judicial Department

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. BREAK

11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Presenter: Audrey E. Stone, Esq., Chief Counsel to the Office of Statewide Coordinating Judge for Family Violence Cases

12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

LUNCH (on your own)

1:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. SEARCH WARRANTS BASICS Presenters: Wayne Witherwax, Esq., Principal Law Clerk to County Court Judge Edward T. McLoughlin, Dutchess County Daniel J. Kopach, Esq., Associate Counsel, OJCS

2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. FITNESS TO PROCEED/MENTAL HEALTH Presenter: Al Chapleau, Esq., Asst. Professor of Criminal Justice, College of St. Rose

3:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. BREAK

3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. JURY TRIAL – SELECTING A JURY Presenter: Hon. Diane S. Turo, Associate Counsel, OJCS

4:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. ASSESSMENT – CORE A (open-book format)

OFFICE OF JUSTICE COURT SUPPORT (OJCS)

2018 TOWN &VILLAGE JUSTICES

CONTINUING JUDICIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

ASSOCIATION OF TOWNS

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2018 - CORE A

All Core A classes take place in Marquis Ballroom A/B



9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. WEBDVS AND BILINGUAL ORDERS OF PROTECTION Presenters: Tina Richburg, Senior Management Analyst, OCA Daniel J. Kopach, Esq., Associate Counsel, OJCS

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. ACCESS TO JUSTICE: LANGUAGE ACCESS, AMERICANS WITH

DISABILITIES ACT, AND CULTURAL SENSITIVITY Presenters: Daniel Weitz, Esq., Director of Professional and Court Services Rob Conlon, Management Analyst, OCA Alexandra Glick-Kutscha, Esq., Associate Counsel, OJCS

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. BREAK

11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. ETHICS UPDATES Presenters: Hon. Edward Borrelli, Retired, Advisory Committee on Judicial Ethics Hon. Daniel Angiolillo, Harrison Town Court Justice, Retired Appellate Division, Second Judicial Department

12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

LUNCH (on your own)

1:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. PRE-TRIAL HEARINGS Presenter: Hon. Diane S. Turo, Associate Counsel, OJCS

2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. LEGISLATIVE UPDATE Presenter: Daniel J. Kopach, Esq., Associate Counsel, OJCS

3:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. BREAK

3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. DRUGGED DRIVING Presenters: Hon. Michael Yavinsky, Supervising Judge, Kings County Criminal Court Hon. Joseph McCormack, Judge, Kings County Criminal Court Thomas J. Carr, Esq., Senior Counsel/Judicial Outreach Liaison

4:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. ASSESSMENT – CORE B (open-book format)





MONDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2018 - CORE B

All Core B classes take place in Marquis Ballroom C



9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. LANDLORD/TENANT – MONEY JUDGMENTS AND SERVICE Presenters: Hon. Kevin McArdle, Martinsburg Town Court Justice Hon. Diane S. Turo, Associate Counsel, OJCS

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. ETHICS: CIVIC PARTICIPATION LIMITATIONS Presenters: Hon. Daniel Angiolillo, Harrison Town Court Justice, Retired Judge Appellate Division, Second Judicial Department Laura Smith, Esq., Chief Counsel, Advisory Committee on Judicial Ethics

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. BREAK

11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Presenter: Audrey E. Stone, Esq., Chief Counsel to the Office of Statewide Coordinating Judge for Family Violence Cases

12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

LUNCH (on your own)

1:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. SEARCH WARRANTS BASICS Presenters: Wayne Witherwax, Esq., Principal Law Clerk to County Court Judge Edward T. McLoughlin, Dutchess County Daniel J. Kopach, Esq., Associate Counsel, OJCS

2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. FITNESS TO PROCEED/MENTAL HEALTH Presenter: Al Chapleau, Esq., Asst. Professor of Criminal Justice, College of St. Rose

3:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. BREAK

3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. JURY TRIAL – SELECTING A JURY Presenter: Hon. Diane S. Turo, Associate Counsel, OJCS

4:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. ASSESSMENT – CORE A (open-book format)





TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2018 - CORE A

All Core A classes take place in Marquis Ballroom A/B



9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. WEBDVS AND BILINGUAL ORDERS OF PROTECTION Presenters: Tina Richburg, Senior Management Analyst, OCA Daniel J. Kopach, Esq., Associate Counsel, OJCS

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. ACCESS TO JUSTICE: LANGUAGE ACCESS, AMERICANS WITH

DISABILITIES ACT, AND CULTURAL SENSITIVITY Presenters: Daniel Weitz, Esq., Director of Professional and Court Services Rob Conlon, Management Analyst, OCA Alexandra Glick-Kutscha, Esq., Associate Counsel, OJCS

11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. BREAK

11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. ETHICS UPDATES Presenters: Hon. Daniel Angiolillo, Harrison Town Court Justice, Retired Judge Appellate Division, Second Judicial Department Laura Smith, Esq., Chief Counsel, Advisory Committee on Judicial Ethics

12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.

LUNCH (on your own)

1:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. PRE-TRIAL HEARINGS Presenter: Hon. Diane S. Turo, Associate Counsel, OJCS

2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. LEGISLATIVE UPDATE Presenter: Daniel J. Kopach, Esq., Associate Counsel, OJCS

3:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. BREAK

3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. DRUGGED DRIVING Presenters: Hon. Michael Yavinsky, Supervising Judge, Kings County Criminal Court Hon. Joseph McCormack, Judge, Kings County Criminal Court Thomas J. Carr, Esq., Senior Counsel/Judicial Outreach Liaison

4:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. ASSESSMENT – CORE B (open-book format)





TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2018 - CORE B

All Core B classes take place in Marquis Ballroom C




CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE FOR LAND USE TRAINING

ACTIVITY IDENTIFICATION Sponsor: Association of Towns of the State of New York Activity Title: 2018 Annual Meeting and Training School Date and Location: February 18 – 21, 2018

Times Square Marriott Marquis 1535 Broadway, New York, NY 10036

CERTIFICATION By signing below, I certify that I attended the activity described above and am entitled to claim ______ credit hours upon the approval of the legislative body.

__________________________________________ ______________________________________________ Name (Print legibly) Signature __________________________________________ ______________________________________________ Address Date __________________________________________ Town / State / Zip

RESOLUTION OF APPROVAL FOR LAND USE TRAINING WHEREAS, effective January 1, 2007, all planning board and zoning board of appeals members in New York State, as well as alternate members of those boards, must complete a minimum of four hours of training each year; and

WHEREAS, the legislative body of the [Town / Village / City] is required to approve the activities that satisfy this training requirement; NOW, THEREFORE, be it

RESOLVED, that the Association of Towns with the cooperation and assistance of the New York New York State Planning Federation and others, is approved to provide training to meet the above cited state law requirements when the training provided pertains to municipal planning, zoning, community, design, environmental issues, economic development, and local government functions and practices.

Please return this Certificate to your Town’s Legislative Body for approval.


Certified Town Official Program

The Association of Towns provides a certification program for town officials. The Certified Town Official (CTO) program assures that recipients will have a comprehensive education that encompasses the primary offices at the town level. To participate in the program, simply attend the courses that are indicated as eligible for CTO credit, fill out the Affidavit of Completion form that is included in your registration packet, and return the form to the Association at the training event or mail, fax or e-mail it to our main office.

INITIAL CERTIFICATION

• All member-town elected and appointed officials and employees are eligible to become CTO recipients.

• There is no additional charge for participation in the CTO program.

• A total of 30 credits are needed for initial certification. Officials must complete a curriculum of 30 courses comprised of three eligible training courses in each of 10 subject areas to attain certification. There is no time limit for initial certification.

• The 10 subject areas are: Assessor/RPT Issues; Attorney/Legal Issues; Board Member; Clerk; Code Enforcement; Justice/Courts; Planning and Zoning; Superintendent of Highways; Supervisor; and Tax Collector/Receiver of Taxes.

• One course is worth one credit, regardless of the length of the course.

• Printed and online agendas will identify the eligible training courses and their respective subject areas.

• Credit cannot be obtained for any course if credit was obtained for the same course within the prior two years.

• In order to receive credit for attending an eligible training course, participants must fill out a CTO Affidavit of Completion provided by the Association and return it to the Association within the time specified on the affidavit. Receipt by the Association of a properly completed affidavit by an eligible participant will constitute enrollment in the CTO Program.

• An official graduation ceremony will be held at the Association’s Annual Meeting and Training School to recognize CTO recipients who have completed the

program during the preceding year. Graduates will receive a certificate and lapel pin.

CTO CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAM

• Each CTO graduate will be required to earn 10 credits of approved training within three calendar years in order to maintain an active CTO status. A single credit must be earned in each of the 10 subject areas listed above. As with initial certification, credit cannot be obtained for any course if credit was obtained for the same course within the prior two years.

• CTO graduates who do not earn at least 10 credits of approved training within three calendar years will have their CTO status designated as “inactive” until such time as reinstatement requirements are satisfied.

• To reinstate CTO active status, an eligible participant must complete eight credits of approved training in a calendar year. Notification of inactive status will be sent primarily by e-mail and, if necessary, by paper mail to participants. The notification will list the requirements for reinstatement. Upon completion of reinstatement requirements, participants will be notified of active status. Reinstatement initiates the continuing education requirements as set forth above.

OFFICIALS NO LONGER IN OFFICE

• Officials and employees who enrolled in the CTO Program may continue the program after leaving office, subject to verification, approval and terms set forth by Association staff on a case-by-case basis.

An accounting of the credits earned to date and the categories in which they were earned can be obtained by calling or e-mailing the Association at (518) 465-7933 or [email protected].

AFFIDAVIT RETURN INSTRUCTIONS

• The official affidavit of completion is located on the following page. Please fill out and drop off in the Lyceum Room on the 5th floor, ormail to: Association of Towns

c/o Chris Anderson150 State StreetAlbany, NY 12207

Or fax to 518-465-0724.

PleAse Print

I, _______________________________________, Town of _________________________________, County of

____________________________, solemnly and sincerely declare and affirm that this is my name and handwriting, that I have

completed the following courses within the approved program of education or training, and that the contents of this, my affida-

vit, are true and correct in every particular.

Date:_____________________ _____________________________________________ (Signature of Town official seeking certification)

2018 Annual Meeting & Training SchoolCertified Town Official Affidavit of Completion

Monday (Various Times) Valuation of Assisted Living Facilities

Monday 10:30 Taxability of Fiber Optic Cable

Monday 3:00 Ethics, Cloud Computing and Social Media for Attorneys

Monday 4:00 Governments, Lawyers, and the Ethics of Disobedience

Tuesday 10:00 Vacant and Unsafe Properties Tuesday 11:00 NY Zombie Property and Foreclosure

Prevention Law: Litigation Options Tuesday 2:00 Harassment and Discrimination Tuesday 3:00 New York State Paid Family Leave

Monday 10:00 Water-Based Fire Protection Plan Review Monday 10:30 NY Energy Code for Supervisors, Board

Members, Planning and ZBA Members Tuesday 9:00 Division of Building Standards and Codes –

Update Tuesday 11:00 Documentation and the Uniform Code, Part 1 Tuesday 1:00 Documentation and the Uniform Code, Part 2 Tuesday 2:00 Overview of the 2017 Uniform Code

Supplement

Tuesday 11:00 Working Together: The Relationship between Towns and the Court System

Monday 4:00 Site Plan Approval Monday 4:00 When Are Municipalities, School Districts,

and Other Entities Immune from Local Zoning? Tuesday 10:00 Introduction to Planning & Zoning Tuesday 11:00 Open Space Planning Tuesday 2:00 Special Use Permit Tuesday 3:00 Historic Preservation Tuesday 4:00 Land Use Case Law Update

Monday 10:30 Surviving a PESH Inspection and Improving Department Safety

Monday 11:30 Good Town Roads Monday 2:00 The Real Cost of Roads

Monday 2:00 Claim & Liability Aspects of Problematic Public Works Events

Monday 3:00 The Dirt on the New Part 360: New Regulations of Surplus Soil, Gravel, Concrete, Rubble, Road Millings, Ditch Cuttings and Scrap Metal

Monday 11:30 Communicating and Understanding Financial Reports

Monday 2:00 Proper Use of Appropriated Fund Balance Tuesday 2:00 Pitfalls in Budgeting Tuesday 4:00 Accounting for Capital Assets

Monday 10:30 No, You Cannot Prepay Your Taxes Five

Years in Advance and Other Things You Never Thought You’d Say: Hot Topics in Real Property Tax Collection

Monday 11:30 New Legislation and Pending Real Property Tax Legal Issues

Monday 2:00 Interactive Tax Servicing to Better Serve Customers and Tax Collectors

Tuesday 10:00 Mail Room Security Tuesday 11:00 Know Your Money

Monday 10:30 Social Media a Public Forum? Monday 3:00 New York State Article 47 Health Insurance

Consortiums 101 Monday 3:00 Inclusive Programming and Structural

Access for Individuals with Disabilities Monday 4:00 A Review and Comparison of Municipal

Solar Codes Tuesday 10:00 Fiscal Accountability for Town Boards Tuesday 3:00 Do’s and Don’ts of Managing Employee

Disability Claims Tuesday 4:00 Managing Bad Behavior at Meetings

Monday 2:00 Financial Accountability for Town Clerks Monday 3:00 Birth, Death, Marriage Certificates and

Filings Monday 4:00 Fiscal Responsibility for Town Clerks Tuesday 10:00 Mail Room Security Tuesday 11:00 Know Your Money Tuesday 3:00 Records Retention Programs for Towns

Please fill out and drop off in the Lyceum Room on the 5th floor, mail to: Association of Towns

c/o Chris Anderson 150 State Street Albany, NY 12207

Or fax to 518-465-0724.

rAining...LED Street Lighting Conversions for Municipalities. Joseph Rende, Director of Business Development and Jesse Scott, Municipal Program Manager, New York Power . Authority.

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