Legislator raises concerns about damaged gate, transmitters and signal sequencing at Golden Hill facility

Legislator McCullough raised new business on April 7 reporting a damaged entry gate at the Golden Hill facility and asking about repairs and how transmitters and a planned traffic signal interact with gate operation.

McCullough said the gate was dented—apparently struck by a vehicle shortly after installation—and that staff had temporarily secured it. County staff (identified as Dean and DPW staff) said the mechanical components of the gate are damaged and that parts are on order. Staff said the gate installer (DVW) will repair it and that they are adding LED lighting on the gate. Transmitters are issued to limited users (residents, police, fire) and staff said those transmitters have been tested and worked when used; however, a transmitter’s effective range could limit use from inside some buildings.

The committee discussed sequencing: several members, and the city of Kingston according to staff, recommended activating the traffic signal before the gate is made operational to avoid creating an unsafe crossing condition for residents, including seniors, who enter and exit near Route 32. Staff said the gate had to be operational within a specified period after approval and that occupancy and the signal activation schedule changed since the original permit; current schedules place building occupancy later in the year and the signal activation is still pending. Staff said they will coordinate final sequencing with the city and that repair work is scheduled; the gate will remain out of service until required lighting and parts are in place.

No formal vote was taken; the matter was described as ongoing staff work and staff said the repair and sequencing decisions will continue in coordination with the city’s planning office.