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Committee approves DPW staff reclassification and $300,000 for drainage improvements using CHIPS funds
Summary
The committee authorized creation of a principal clerk position in the Department of Public Works and approved a $300,000 supplemental capital appropriation for drainage improvement projects, with $200,000 to come from the state CHIPS program and $100,000 from county bonding.
The Physical Services Committee approved a personnel reclassification in the Department of Public Works and a supplemental capital appropriation to fund county drainage improvements.
The personnel action abolishes one vacant Secretary (Grade 6) position and creates one Principal Clerk (Grade 7) position in Public Works. Presenters said the change is intended to make the reception/receptionist position more attractive, expand responsibilities, reduce administrative burden on other staff and improve employee retention. Deputy Commissioner McGuire (presenting) said the reception position handles phone calls, permits, mail and routine office activities and that the higher-grade role could provide opportunities for internal development.
On capital funding, the committee approved a $300,000 supplemental appropriation for various drainage improvements (2025 capital plan project number 31). The funding breakdown presented was $100,000 in county bonding and $200,000 expected from the New York State Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS). Staff said the funds are typically used for large culvert replacement (roughly 5 to 20 feet) and identified planned work on a culvert on County Route 12 at Rutgers Creek and another on County Route 83 (Scotchtown Avenue).
Committee members asked whether the county typically has issues getting CHIPS reimbursement; staff replied they usually do not and that documenting labor and equipment hours is the key to reimbursement. Both the personnel change and drainage appropriation were approved by voice vote.
The personnel reclassification will proceed through Human Resources and the county’s hiring processes; the drainage capital project will move forward with materials procurement and scheduling to secure CHIPS reimbursement.
