A proposed amendment to increase access by snowmobiles in and around Schroon Lake will not be discussed as originally planned at a special Public Hearing set for 5 pm today.

The proposed amendment to ordinance #7, which relates exclusively to snowmobiles, currently has two options available for public discussion. “Under local government rules – only one option can be presented for public discussion,” Town Attorney Cheryl Indelicato told Schroon Laker today.

What that means is that the Town Council will most likely take off the agenda the two options and bring the matter back for further discussions among council members.

Two other matters up for discussion -- changes to local laws preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species, and a law to protect the public from unsafe buildings -- will be discussed at today’s meeting, confirmed council member Roger Friedman.

The two options to amend ordinance number #7 are radically different. Briefly, one proposes updating the amendment to cover the use of shoulders on local roads and highways in Schroon while the other goes further to include additional access by snowmobiles to state lands.

Meanwhile, public discussion is expected to proceed on a proposed law to stop the spread of invasive species like Eurasian Milfoil and Razor clams. The new proposed law, similar to one adopted by Warren County last year, would make it illegal for boat owners to spread or bring invasive species into Schroon Lake and its surrounding rivers and waterways. Offenders would be subject to a $500 fine and/or jail time.

The new unsafe building law would allow the Town to pursue owners of buildings that are dilapidated or unsafe, or likely to be a target for vandals or rodent infestations, to make repairs or face demolition.

Will you be going to today’s meeting? Where do you stand on these issues? Tell us in comments.