PORTLAND — The Town Board also held a lengthy discussion with the Town of Portland Museum and Historical Society about a potential chicken barbecue fundraiser to support additional improvements to the Museum. The Town expressed its concerns with legality of the use of funds for a fundraiser and the required insurance.

Town Board member Tammy Thompson expressed frustration with the Museum’s lack of availability in recent months with the funds the Town allocated through the American Rescue Plan Act to improve the Museum. She urged representatives of the Museum to find solutions to remain open through construction as the space is upgraded.

“It was a little bit disappointing to realize that here we are, literally coming up to close it out, and it really hasn’t been open for the people to enjoy,” board member Thompson said.

The Town is in receipt of its third quarter sales tax distribution from Chautauqua County and PILOT agreement disbursements from two solar energy projects hosted by the Town. Several budget transfers and modifications were approved, as well.

The Town Board also approved Local Law No. 2 of 2025, amending the zoning code to permit fences up to 6 feet in height. There were no comments on the local law at the public hearing preceding its approval.