Warner focusing forward in 2004

In 2004, Hamlin Supervisor Austin F. Warner III said he is focused on putting the political turmoil that marked the end of 2003 behind him. Warner publicly clashed with former Hamlin Town Board member Ed Evans, who lost in a primary race and took many shots from leaders of the upstart All Hamlin Party.

"I'm always willing to listen to anybody and keep my office open to the community," said Warner. "It would definitely be good to put that political stuff behind us."

Warner said he believes that the town board is now working productively together, and is ready to tackle the issues that are ahead in 2004. Many of those issues that Warner laid out are carryovers from previous years.

He said the three primary focuses this year will be the continuation of work by the Master Plan Committee, expanding further the distribution of public water to Hamlin residents, and further fine tuning communication with community members via the website and quarterly newsletter.

"We're moving on and we're focused on where we want to be," said Warner.

Part of moving on has been hiring a new building inspector to replace Larry Gursslin, who was dismissed by the Town Board. Rick Bauman, a retired Monroe County building inspector, has been hired to fill that gap. Cindy Olds remains on as Bauman's assistant and the town still employs the Town of Greece's services when necessary. This measure was added when Gursslin was let go.

"So far so good," said Warner regarding the changes in the Inspector's office. "It has been great to be able to have that extra service provided by Greece." Warner said he has received no complaints regarding service from the Building Inspector's Office since switching personnel.

Donna Stassen is the newest member of the Planning Board and the town is currently trying to fill two vacancies in the Conservation Board left by Pat Pullinzi and the late Bill Jennejahn. Any residents interested in serving should contact the town clerk's office for information.

Town officials also recently received word that Hamlin will be the recipient of a $20,000 grant coming from Senator George Maziarz and Assemblyman Charles Nesbitt. This money will be used to enhance the town hall's gymnasium and main entranceway.