GLEN SPEY, NY — For the first time in months, the Lumberland Town Board conducted its normal monthly business in the new normal manner, donning face masks and maintaining social distancing. 

Among other items, the board extended the existing moratorium on solar farms and solar power plants within the town. This item was to be addressed as part of a review of the town’s building codes, work on which was halted due to the pandemic. The moratorium now extends until September 23. 

The board set a public hearing for Wednesday, July 22 at 7 p.m. to address an order of removal and/or demolition of a structure located at 1148 State Rte. 97. The anticipated work would start within 15 days of notice and be completed within 60 days. If the structure is not removed by its owner, the town will oversee the project and assess the costs to the owner. The meeting will be held via Zoom unless the restrictions on public meetings is lifted by then. 

The board also received and accepted the planning board minutes that included the decision and resolution regarding the Kerr Farm in the Hillside district of the town. The Kerr Farm, which is on the site of the former Leisure Time Water Company, was granted a special-use permit for the purpose of growing hemp on the farm. The issue of concern was an odor that is emitted during the harvesting process which occurs over a three-week period. The owners stated that the hemp will be ground into an oil that will be used in military bandages. The special-use permit was granted for one year, after which the issue will be revisited. 

Lumberland residents wishing to vote in person in the June 23 primary election will do so at the Highland Town Hall. 

Town clerk Laurie Terry reported on the town’s dry good pantry. It was agreed that with the uncertainty surrounding the future of the virus and the fact that funds are available, the initiative will continue for the foreseeable future. Fresh produce is also available when it can be obtained from the county.  

Chief constable Pat Cahill reported that the constabulary is concentrating on speeders along State Route 97 and Forestburgh Road and that nine summonses were issued in the prior month.