Town Board minutes — March 12, 2026 (full text)

14 Regular Meeting March 12, 2026 The regular meeting of the Marilla Town Board was held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 7:02 p.m. at the Marilla Town Hall, 1740 Two Rod Road, Marilla, New York. Officials present were: Earl Gingerich Jr., Supervisor Absent: Brian Nolan, Councilman Matthew Dolegowski, Councilman Absent: Randy Reichert, Councilman Anthony Sebastiano, Councilman Supervisor Gingerich called the meeting to order and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was given. Communications None Committee Reports Open Board Presentations from the Public None Old Business Motion: Councilman Dolegowski moved, seconded by Councilman Sebastiano, Councilman Reichert abstained to approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting held on 2/12/26 and Work Session Minutes held on 2/24/2026. Motion Carried. New Business Motion: Councilman Dolegowski moved, seconded by Councilman Sebastiano for the Resolution for the Marilla Country Store. Motion Carried. A RESOLUTION HONORING THE 175TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MARILLA COUNTRY STORE WHEREAS, the Marilla Country Store, located at 1673 Two Rod Road in the Town of Marilla, Erie County, New York, opened its doors in 1851 and has operated continuously ever since, making it the oldest continuously operating general store in New York State; and WHEREAS, the store’s origins trace back to 1848, when founder Harrison T. Foster purchased land and began a logging business, leading to a unique trade in 1851 that established the business on its current site after his oxen met an unfortunate fate; and WHEREAS, over the past 175 years, the Marilla Country Store has remained a steadfast landmark, witnessing 35 U.S. presidents, wars, blizzards, global pandemics, technological advancements, and the growth of the surrounding community, yet never once closing its doors through it all; and WHEREAS, this remarkable continuity is a testament to the dedication of the families who have stewarded the store, including the current owners Sandy and Paul Grunzweig and their family since 1979, the committed staff who serve daily, and the generations of loyal customers from Marilla and beyond who have made it a cherished part of their lives; and WHEREAS, the Marilla Country Store predates the incorporation of the Town of Marilla itself in 1854 and has served as a vital hub for settlers, farmers, residents, and visitors, offering goods, community connection, and a glimpse into local history through its museum and preserved original features; and WHEREAS, in 2026, the Marilla Country Store proudly celebrates its 175th anniversary, a milestone that reflects enduring resilience, community spirit, and the timeless charm of small-town America; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Marilla, on behalf of all residents, extends heartfelt congratulations and profound gratitude to the owners, staff, and patrons of the Marilla Country Store for 175 years of exemplary service and contribution to the character and vitality of our community; and

15 Regular Meeting March 12, 2026 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Board proclaims 2026 as a year to celebrate this extraordinary milestone and encourages all citizens to visit, support, and share in the rich history of this beloved institution. Adopted this 13th day of March, 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Marilla. ________________ _________________ _________________ _________________ _________________ Earl Gingerich Matthew Dolegowski, PhD Brian Nolan Randy Reichert Anthony Sebastiano Supervisor Councilman Councilman Councilman Councilman Report of Town Officials Building Inspector Scott Rider submitted a written report with 8 building applications received with fees totaling $14,020, with a total value of $24,178,000, 12 inspections and a total of 134 logged activities were made in the month of February. Erie County Sheriff Community Engagement Team Officer Malican read the February stats total of 90 calls, 13 traffic, 6 accidents with 0 injuries, 0 crimes, 1 DWI and 1 Warrant. Open Board Presentations Supervisor Gingerich Jr. read a letter from the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding the proposed Halfway House on Stolle Road. Motion: Councilman Sebastiano moved, seconded by Councilman Dolegowski to approve the claims previously audited by the Town Board. General Fund Vouchers 60-98 $ 50,862.88 Highway Fund Vouchers 19-35 $ 78,378.12 Special Districts. Sanitation Vouchers 21-32 $ 43,878.88 Water 2 Voucher 1 $ 42,150.72 Water 3 Voucher 1 $ 23,137.08 Water 4 Voucher 1 $ 13,973.88 Water 5 Voucher 1 $ 6,643.32 Cemetery Voucher $ .00 Special Fire Voucher 1-2 $ 65,607.97 Comm. Develop. Vouch 1 $ 61.84 Motion Carried. Motion: Councilman Sebastiano moved, seconded by Councilman Dolegowski to adjourn the meeting at 7:19 p.m. Motion Carried. Respectfully submitted, Town Clerk _________________________ Supervisor ________________________ Councilman ________________________ Councilman ________________________ Councilman________________________ Councilman _______________________