Town’s new code enforcement officer getting acclimated

Scot Cole worked in the construction industry for more than 30 years. In need of a change, he moved on to be the code enforcement officer for the village of Watkins Glen.

“I saw a need for qualified professionals to guide homeowners through the process of new construction and rehabilitation of existing structures,” Cole said. “With so many years of construction and contracting work behind me, I felt qualified and ready to fill the position [at] Watkins Glen.”

Born in Sayre, Pennsylvania, Cole was raised in Florida. He has lived in New York state for the past 30 years.

After collecting years of experience in the code enforcement world, Cole noticed an open position in the town of Newfield and took a chance at it.

Cole has been the town’s code enforcement officer since last summer.

“I was looking for a change and [Newfield] had an opening, so that’s what led me to this position,” Cole said. “It’s a very laid back, comfortable community. They’re nice people to work with.”

Cole’s goal is to educate the town about what he does as much as possible.

“It’s about making sure everyone is safe and to enforce New York state codes,” Cole said. “The state’s codes are primarily designed to keep people safe. It’s the whole idea of the position I’m in right now.”

Cole said the state has “extensive regulations,” guiding a handful of aspects of buildings. That includes electrical codes, fire codes, drinking water standards and best practices in construction.

While those aspects are key in code enforcement, Cole has been dealing with an omitted aspect in the town.

According to Cole, Newfield has no zoning districts or regulations, bringing more of a challenge to his position.

“It does make things a little bit more difficult, just because there are no rules to go by for the most part,” Cole said. “The state has its rules and sets the parameters for what you can and can’t do, but it’s a little bit easier when the town sets rules, too. Overall, it’s fine and something I can work with. I think the town and I fit together really well.”

Cole’s experience includes working alongside residents with contractors who are tasked with projects throughout the town.

“While any good contractor will be aware of these and follow [regulations], it is the responsibility of the municipality to ensure that the end product the homeowner has contracted for meets all of these regulations and standards where they apply,” Cole said. “This starts with obtaining a building permit for the project, often handled by the contractor but in some cases [permits] are left to the customer to obtain from town hall. It’s a good idea to ask your contractor if they will be taking care of obtaining any necessary permits before the job starts.”

Cole has worked for the town for about half a year. However, for over a year, Cole has invested in the Newfield community as he makes it his permanent residence.

“Newfield is a beautiful area, and I find interesting scenery almost every day,” Cole said. “I am looking forward to meeting the residents of Newfield and helping answer their questions.”

Cole is available at his office in town hall on Mondays and Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

To contact Cole, call 607-327-1849 or send an email to codeofficer@newfieldny.org.

Newfield Notes appears every week in Tompkins Weekly. Send story ideas to editorial@vizellamedia.com.

In brief:

‘Mind Over Body’ program on Feb. 29

The Newfield Public Library will host its “Mind Over Body” program on Feb. 29.

The program, led by instructor Mitch Raymond, will take place on the second floor of the library at 6 p.m. The presentation from Raymond breaks down how to “improve the strength, flexibility, stability, balance and skill” of participants’ bodies through practices that “enhance neuromuscular connection and physiologic well being,” according to a description.

The library recommends bringing a yoga mat to the program, and participants will work with the library’s chairs and table to assist with stability. The program has a suggested donation of $10.

Library to hold Valentine’s Day bake sale

The Newfield Public Library will hold a Valentine’s Day bake sale on Feb. 13 from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

The library, located at 193 Main St. in the town, will have a variety of baked goods and treats for sale.

Participants have the option of making a do-it-yourself gift basket. Those who donate $10 can select a treat, a book and a movie. A $20 donation will include a bottle of wine.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the library. For more information, call 607-564-3594 or email newfieldlibrary@gmail.com.

Town meetings in February

The Newfield Town Board will meet on Feb. 13 and 27 at 7 p.m. at the town hall on 166 Main St. The public is invited to attend in public or on Zoom.

The town’s planning board is set to meet on Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. The public can attend the meeting in person or on Zoom.