Roxbury Ups Its Liability Insurance

 Mountain Eagle 

Roxbury  -- Roxbury Town Board members approved increasing the town's liability insurance by one million dollars Monday.  The increase brings the liability portion to three million dollars.

Town Attorney John Maier urged the board to add the extra coverage saying that one lawsuit having to do with town vehicles could easily decimate the town. Board members, originally reticent, were swayed by Maier's advocacy.

Town Highway Superintendent Dan Ballard reported on the condition of the town's equipment in light of the demands placed on the equipment throughout the winter. He also reported he was attending a training session to submit certification to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for reimbursement of expenses related to the Dec. 15 and Jan. 3 blizzards. Board members accepted bids for sand, stone, gravel and fuel for the coming months.

It was announced that Robert Townsend will be retiring on April 15, following more than 30 years of service as the town's water superintendent and commissioner. Supervisor Tom Hynes suggested the town consider hiring Lamont Engineering as a management company to do the work that Townsend has done over the years. Lamont is currently engaged in the installation of the new water and sewer system for the town.

Work on that project has been slowed because of the weather. However, it was reported Monday night that two trenchers have been busy installing a force main and a water main.  Dave Campagne, head of Grant Street Construction, the firm doing the work, advised residents that fill dirt is available to those who need it.  He also reported the project office is now being manned daily, and a phone has been installed for the convenience of the public. The number is 326-3351, and the receptionist on-site has contact with workers and supervisors in the field.

Hynes reported several leaks in the Grand Gorge line have been discovered, including one causing major damage to a residence. The homeowner has been notified and work continues in locating and repairing the remaining leaks.