Board rents white house
by ELIZABETH TAUFA Reporter

The Williamsville Village board has elected to rent a room in the Williamsville Mill white house to photographer Dan Chase, who will use it as a studio, for July, August and September.

The board reached a decision on the rental agreement at a work session prior to its regular meeting Monday night.

"I like the idea of having a warm body down there," said Trustee Brian Geary, noting that the mill as well as the adjacent buildings are often the sites of vandalism and mischief. "It'll be good to have an extra set of eyes."

Chase, who attended the work session, will be using the space to take high school senior portraits by appointment. He resides most of the year in Florida, but remains a resident of the village and returns during the summer.

The board also said that Chase will be responsible for utilities and proper insurance in addition to the $250 per month rent.

In addition, Chase noted that his presence in the white building, in addition to the farmer's market held every Saturday, will keep people's attentions focused on the mill area on Spring Street.

"If you look at it long-range, you could possibly use that area as an artisan center," Chase said. "I know a lot of artists looking for studio space and that could be an ultimate use of the whole space."

In addition to rent, Chase also offered to photograph both village events during the summer and the buildings on the mill property for historical and governmental purposes.

Also during the work session, Mayor Mary Lowther noted that the Department of Public Works had been searching for a replacement slide for the damaged one in Garrison Park, but none could be found.

She noted that the playground equipment that is now available is made of fiberglass and plastic and the wooden pieces have become obsolete.

Therefore, the village is looking into replacement equipment.

"The slide has been removed and the area has been sealed off," Lowther said.

In other news, for village residents who are interested in having a tree planted in the right of way near their house, there are forms available at Village Hall.

Residents can fill out the form including specific tree preference and the village will begin planting in the fall.

Individuals also may plant their own trees, but are encouraged to seek advice through the village on what kind of tree to plant when seeking approval to plant.

The next meeting of the Williamsville Village Board will be at 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 25 at Village Hall, 5565 Main St.