OBSERVER Photo by Braden Carmen Code Enforcement Officer James Crowell discussed potential building code updates that could be implemented following a vote later this month at the state level.

SHERIDAN — At a recent Sheridan Town Board meeting, Code Enforcement Officer James Crowell discussed some of the new building code regulations that could be implemented following a vote later this month at the state level.

“There’s a new code coming to town,” Crowell said. “… There’s going to be some major changes.”

Crowell then described many of the topics discussed at the state level. Some of the updates might be implemented after the latest vote, while others could be pushed off until a later date, approximately four to six years down the road.

Among the topics discussed were the requirement of any new residential building to install a sprinkler system; solar energy system code updates, specifically to residential solar panels; and electric vehicle codes. Also discussed was the requirement for a third-party inspector to evaluate insulation on new structures, similar to the requirements already in place for electrical installation.

“All of these things do add up to money,” Crowell said.

Crowell also said discussion has been had regarding the elimination of fossil fuels for residences, meaning homes could not hook up a gas heating system. Crowell said those discussions are in the development stage, and not likely to be implemented in the latest code update.

Crowell urged residents to contact state representation with any concerns.

In January, Crowell conducted 14 inspections on construction and six public safety inspections. He also issued nine certificates of occupancy, two building permit applications, and one violation following an investigation of a complaint. Crowell collected $85 for the month of January.

Highway Superintendent Jeff Feinen was selected to attend Advocacy Day in Albany from March 4-5 on behalf of the Town and the region of western New York. Feinen was authorized to spend no more than $80 for lunch during the trip, while most of the other costs are covered at no cost to the Town.

The Town Board officially awarded the bid for replacement of the windows and doors on the Town of Sheridan Highway Barn to 3 Pete’s Masonry in the amount of $59,870. The majority of the work is covered through grant funds. The Town is also in the process of renovating its Community Center through the use of American Rescue Plan Act funds.

Regarding the bathhouse project at Sheridan Bay Park, the Town is meeting with a representative from the State Parks and Recreation Department and the Town’s grant writer to iron out the details that have held up the process. Town Board member Joe White thanked state Sen. George Borrello for helping facilitate a discussion with the State Parks and Recreation Department.

Seasonal rates for camping at Sheridan Bay Park were set at $3,000 for a 50-amp hookup and $2,750 for a 30-amp hookup.

The Sheridan Justice Court disposed of 275 vehicle and traffic law cases in January, along with one penal law case, two civil cases, one tax law case, one environmental law case and one regulatory law case. A total of $33,143.50 was collected and turned over for distribution.

The Town Clerk’s office collected $300 in the month of January, of which $249.50 was turned over to the Town’s General Fund. The State Department of Agriculture and Markets received $28 and the State Department of Health received $22.50. The Town has collected more than $1.6 million in taxes already this year.

The next meeting of the Town Board is Wednesday, March 12 at 7 p.m. at the Sheridan Community Center.