The Walworth Town Board addressed a wide range of town business during its Nov. 20 meeting, approving the 2026 town budget, accepting a solar project decommissioning estimate, and postponing a vote on whether to lease additional park-adjacent land for farming.
Budget adopted with reduced tax increase
The board unanimously approved the 2026 Town of Walworth budget (Resolution 175-25), which reflects a reduction in the originally proposed tax increase. Board Member Amber Linson noted that through budget workshops and “some tough decisions,” the board reduced an initial 13% increase by 7%. She said the increase was driven largely by higher utility costs, medical insurance, and New York State retirement contributions.
“This board was able to cut an additional 7%,” Linson said, while also warning that future budgets may require tax cap overrides. Supervisor Rick Johnson thanked the board for its work, noting, “There were some very hard decisions made… we got it down to where we thought it was acceptable.”
Solar decommissioning estimate approved
The board approved Resolution 176-25, accepting a decommissioning security estimate of $193,824.47 for the Norbut Solar Farm LLC project. The estimate, reviewed by the MRB Group, covers the cost of removing the solar and battery energy storage systems at the end of the project’s lifespan and returning the site to its original condition.
A representative from Norbut Solar Farms confirmed that the funds will be held in escrow and available if needed.
Supervisor Johnson described the estimate as “a win-win,” stating that the town’s code requires complete site restoration, including the removal of panels, stanchions, and foundations.
Highway and facility safety concerns
Highway Superintendent Kevin Switzer reported that heat detectors in several areas of Building 3 at the town garage had never functioned properly. The issues were discovered during installation of a new security system. Repairs are being made at a cost of $2,280.59.
Switzer also reminded residents to remove basketball hoops from roadways to avoid interference with snowplows.
Land lease tabled for further discussion
The board discussed Resolution 178-25, which would authorize the town to solicit bids for leasing 5.62 acres of farmland at Ginegaw Park. The land has been under a 10-year lease set to expire at the end of the year.
Board Member Alex Kelly raised concerns about leasing land that is part of a public park and suggested tabling the motion to allow more time for review and discussion about possible future recreational use. The motion to table was seconded and approved. Supervisor Johnson said Parks Superintendent Mike Worthington would be invited to attend the next meeting.
Board Member Craig Jeffers advocated for a shorter one-year lease instead of 10 years to retain flexibility for future planning.
Routine resolutions and reports
The board approved a new annual contract with the Wayne County Humane Society (Resolution 177-25), which provides shelter services for animals picked up by the town’s animal control officer. The contract is renewed each November.
The board also passed Resolution 179-25 regarding standard workday and reporting requirements for elected and appointed officials. Town Clerk Jean Johnson explained the form was submitted to correct an earlier filing error and is required by New York State for retirement reporting.
Other communications acknowledged included monthly reports from various departments and a certificate of completed judicial education submitted by Town Justice Arlene Oh Hannah.
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- Walworth Town Board adopts local law to override tax cap, approves solar project waivers
Public comment and board recognition
During public participation, Board Member Kelly publicly thanked Supervisor Rick Johnson for his years of service, citing his contributions on the school board, fire commission, planning board, and town board. Johnson confirmed he will retire at the end of his term.
“I enjoy working with people,” Johnson said. “Thank you very much for the kind words.”
The board concluded the public portion of the meeting and entered executive session to discuss personnel matters. No additional public business followed.
Upcoming meetings
- Regular meeting: Dec. 4 at 6:30 p.m.
- Regular meeting: Dec. 18 at 6:30 p.m.
- Organizational meeting and swearing-in ceremony: Jan. 1 at 12:00 p.m.
- Next regular meeting: Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m.
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