Weekly Update – March 28, 2025

Agricultural Literacy Week at Au Sable Forks Elementary

Last Friday, I had the honor of joining Liz Donahue’s second-grade class at Au Sable Forks Elementary School for Agricultural Literacy Week as a member of the Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Association of Essex County Board. I read and discussed the book The Pie That Molly Grew with the students, followed by a lively Q&A session. Each student then had the chance to plant their own pumpkin seed, sparking excitement about growing their own food.

Ms. Donahue and I discussed the possibility of reviving the raised garden beds outside their classroom window with the help of CCE Essex County. After bringing this idea back to CCE, we are also exploring a similar initiative with the Master Gardener Program for the senior site at the Community Center and the Community Garden in the Grove. More details to come as we work out logistics.

 

Continued Water & Sewer Infrastructure Planning

As you know, the Town of Jay’s water and sewer infrastructure is aging. We have completed engineering reports to guide necessary updates and upgrades. The next step is securing grant funding by working with agencies such as Essex County Community Resources and the Lake Champlain Lake George Regional Planning Board (LCLGRPB).

This week, I met with RCAP Solutions, a connection facilitated by LCLGRPB, to discuss the importance of conducting an income survey for our water and sewer districts. This data could help us qualify for higher-scoring grant opportunities and lower-interest financing, ultimately keeping rates more affordable for district users. We will keep you informed as we move forward with this initiative.

 

Comprehensive Plan Progress

While there has been no public engagement since the Community Survey in December, the Comprehensive Plan Special Board (CPSB) continues to meet on the third Monday of each month at 6:30 PM. The CPSB has been working closely with the town’s standing committees to develop focal points for a visioning workshop planned for early summer.

To stay updated, learn more about the CPSB, or review the progress of the Comprehensive Plan, visit our town website at www.townofjayny.gov/comprehensive-plan/ or the dedicated Comprehensive Plan website at www.planjay.com.

 

Wishing you all a great weekend!

Matt