GOWANDA — The Persia Town Board adopted a solar energy law July 13 by a 4-1 tally following a public hearing.
The law amends the town building ordinances by adding new sections to permit certain solar photovoltaic systems to generate electric power. It covers size and location of solar collectors, screening and setback requirements, compliance with New York state codes, height restrictions, notification of inspections and removal of abandoned or decommissioned solar power units. The new law takes effect immediately upon filing with the Secretary of State in Albany.
The board also resolved to send a letter to state and county officials requesting an extension of the 45 mph zone on Broadway Road from Gowanda to just south of Persia Road. From there to Route 353, the speed limit will remain at 55. The board also discussed the poor condition of the railroad crossing on Broadway Road.
Councilman John T. Walgus reported on the Gowanda Area Redevelopment Corporation’s (GARC) recent application for a community baseball grant through the Cattaraugus County Department of Environment, Planning and Tourism for improvements to Zoar Valley Gateway Park on Palmer Street. The group was awarded the $7,240 grant last week.
Councilman Robert O. Dingman attended a Community Connections meeting at the Gowanda Assembly of God. The group focuses on drug abuse and meets the first Thursday of each month. The town board invited Cattaraugus County Sheriff Timothy Whitcomb to address the town board meeting in August to provide details on the program.
In other business, the board:
The next regular Persia Town Board meeting is Thursday, Aug. 10 at 7 p.m. at the town hall, 8 West Main St., Gowanda.
