To the Editor:

Although the Open Meetings Law allows caucus meetings in some situations involving political opponents, I agree that a narrow interpretation of that law best serves the public, and we plan to consider scheduling more public meetings as warranted at the next Knox Town Board meeting. Even though the Knox Town Board got off to a rough start with the new supervisor at times over the past few months, we have tackled some important issues, and we have accomplished a lot of good work.

Some examples include passing a code of conduct for town officials and employees;  supporting changes to state laws for electronics recycling; planning for a household hazardous waste collection day; correcting a mold problem in the furnace room of the town hall; attending to various other buildings and grounds maintenance tasks, with help from the Albany County Sheriff’s Department and inmate laborers; replacing a floor in the historical museum, also with help from the inmates; updating sections of the town website; supporting progress on the highway department’s new equipment purchases; supporting efforts to stop the NED [Northeast Energy Direct] gas pipeline expansion through Knox; supporting the fine work of Charlotte Fuss and the seniors; and perhaps most gratifying of all: supporting the efforts of Maryellen Gillis and the Knox Youth Council in establishing a vibrant and exciting program for our young people.

Maryellen has really gone above and beyond, and we're fortunate to have her as our coordinator. Congratulations to all of the Youth Council participants and volunteers on the top-notch job they did planning and implementing the family day at the town park this past weekend.  Thanks, as well, to Vas [Supervisor Vasilios Lefkaditis] and the others who provided for the fireworks display. It was a beautiful, fun day for everyone who participated.

We are working on a number of other projects and initiatives, including an effort to expand broadband internet access; planning for upgrades to LED technology for the streetlights and other municipal lighting; making progress on the comprehensive plan update and supporting the work of a revitalized Conservation Advisory Council; planning for a fall festival in the town park; updating the zoning ordinance on several issues; preparing a town newsletter; and more.    

I encourage people to come to our town board meetings or to read the meeting minutes on the town website  www.knoxny.org  to be informed about the work we are doing.  In spite of the negative things one may read or hear, all of us on the town board are making our best efforts to serve the interests and wishes of our citizens and to do what's right for them. As town officials, it's our obligation and duty. We can be even more effective if we work together respectfully with open communication and cooperation.

Amy Lauterbach Pokorny

Knox

Editor’s note: Amy Lauterbach Pokorny is the deputy supervisor of the town of Knox.