Town of
|
|
|
Board of Selectmen Fax: 413-648-9318 Robert Raymond, Chairman Virginia M. Budness Stanley Garland
Rebecca M. Jurek,
Administrative Assistant WINTER BULLETIN: The all-night winter parking ban is in effect from December 1st through April 30th between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. of any day. Vehicles may park on the street for emergencies only. Violators will be towed at owners expense. Appreciate your cooperation in off-road parking during the day to allow for easier clean-up. Please remember that our Highway Department is providing plowing and sanding services under the direction of the Board of Selectmen. The Town is not responsible for replacing sections of lawn that are disturbed from plowing, nor is staff directed to lift their plows so that they don't plow in an already plowed driveway. Our staff does an outstanding job dealing with adverse weather conditions- Highway, Fire, Emergency Services, and Police alike - so we ask for your cooperation and support. SELECTMEN'S OFFICE
Hours:
Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. --------------------------------------- ANNUAL TOWN CAUCUS: MARCH 15, 2010 AT 7:00 P.M. AT BERNARDSTON TOWN HALL ANNUAL TOWN MEETING: APRIL 28, 2010 AT 7:00 P.M. AT BERNARDSTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ANNUAL TOWN ELECTION: MAY 3, 2010 FROM NOON UNTIL 8:00 P.M. AT BERNARDSTON TOWN HALL -------------------------------------- BOARD OF SELECTMEN – MEETING SCHEDULE Held at Town Hall* March 3, 2010 at 9:00 a.m. March 8, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. with the Finance Committee March 10, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. March 24, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. *Unless Otherwise Posted ---------------------------------- Board of Selectmen Meeting Agenda - Town Hall March 10, 2010 Call to Order - 6:00 pm Warrant Review – 6:00 pm 3/10/10 Warrants 2/24/10 Warrants Payroll: $25,962.48 Vendor: $87,286.70 Appointments – 6:05 pm Building Permits (no activity) Municipal Calendar & Announcements Thanksgiving in March! Bernardston Kiwanis is having a Turkey Dinner at the United Church on March 27th; seatings at 5 pm and 6:15 pm; Adults $10; Under 12 is $5
Monday, March 15th Town Caucus, 7:00 pm at Town Hall Finance Committee, 7:30 pm at Town Hall
Wednesday, March 17th Board of Health, 6:00 pm at Town Hall
Thursday, March 18th Bernardston Fire & Water District, 7:00 pm at District Office Conservation Commission, 7:00 pm at Town Hall
Administrative Assistant ▪Requests for Leave ▪Minutes 2/24/10 ▪Annual Town Meeting -Town Counsel services (via phone or at meeting?) -Warrant Articles (as tabled) ▪PV panels at landfill seeking Request for Proposals/share attorney review fees? ▪Open Meeting Laws follow up from previous meeting ▪Street Lights WMECO audit results/action? ▪Depot Street beaver issue; status?
Fiscal Year 2011 Budget Hearings Parks & Recreation – 7:00 pm Cushman Library – 7:30 pm Adjourn – 8:00 pm
----------------------------- MEETING MINUTES February 17, 2010 Location: Public Safety Complex, 256 South Street, Bernardston MA Board of Selectmen present: Bob Raymond, Virginia Budness Call to Order: Meeting called to order at 9:30 a.m. Bob made motion at 9:30 a.m. to continue the meeting until 1:00 p.m. when all members of the Board of Selectmen could be present. Stan could not attend the meeting at 9:30 a.m. due to a medical appointment. Virginia seconded. Motion carried. Meeting continued at 1:00 p.m. Board of Selectmen present: Bob Raymond, Virginia Budness, Stan Garland Others present: James Palmeri. Bob made motion in Open Session to go into Executive Session at 1:00 p.m. to conduct contract negotiations with non-union personnel, noting that the meeting would reopen in Open Session. Open Session resumed at 2:18 p.m. Discussed involvement of the Police Department with the Bernardston Elementary School. Discussed building repairs at public safety complex. Intend to install shelving in basement area to organize items. Still awaiting signage and flag pole. Adjourn Virginia made motion to adjourn meeting at 2:55 p.m. Bob seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Respectfully submitted, Virginia M. Budness BOARD OF SELECTMEN Robert R. Raymond, Chairman Virginia M. Budness Stanley D. Garland ---------------------- February 3, 2010 Minutes Call to Order Meeting called to order by Bob at 9:00 a.m. Board of Selectmen present: Stan Garland, Bob Raymond, Virginia Budness. Others present: Jane Dutcher, Linda Raymond, See sign-in sheet attached. Old Business Inquiry to eligibility for life insurance from former employee researched. Determined that as an elected official an individual would be entitled at their own expense. Retirement office offered opinion concerning eligibility of retirement. Individual was not eligible for retirement benefits. In the process of researching issues regarding setting fees, interpreting materials for town official, and open meeting law. Establishing fees is typically done by each department, and the question of interpreting materials for town officials needs town counsel opinion. Selectmen in agreement with seeking opinion from counsel. Bob indicated that he was waiting on answers to the open meeting law questions that were raised at previous meeting. Meetings February 9th: Joint Facilities Committee (Transit Center),10:00 a.m. February 10th: F.C. Solid Waste Management District, 7:00 p.m. February 11th: Public Hearing at 5:30 p.m. at Town Hall concerning proposed zoning bylaw changes, PVRS budget, 8:00 p.m. at PVRS February 22nd: Smartpower Program, 9 a.m., Amherst Town Hall.
Administrative Assistant Wellhead Protection Committee needs to be created. Assistant to issue notices to departments and will await a panel of members to be appointed. Received information from insurance carrier regarding upcoming 250th anniversary celebration. Board needs to determine who they are dedicating the Annual Town Report to. Potential town meeting articles: extension of tax bill mailing. Assistant to follow up with Tax Collector. Tabled. Request for a veterans-related tax break article. Board not in favor. Article to be created and placed on the warrant that would allow for the Treasurer position to be appointed rather than elected. Question has been raised of creating a bulletin board for Bernardston news items. Board in favor. The Heritage Landscape Program will not be receiving funding this year and the Selectmen need to decide whether they wish to pursue recommendations as noted in the Heritage Landscape inventory and if so, how to fund. Selectmen to review and offer opinion. Discussed increasing disposal fees at Transfer Station. Stan expressed concerns with raising fees too much might create other issues. Tabled. Franklin Regional Retirement System has issued FY11 assessment figure. Noted. Landfill testing began in 1999 and will continue through 2029. Board in agreement with reducing testing costs per year. Assistant to follow up with Huntley. Baystate Ambulance contract still under review. Minutes Minutes of January 27, 2010 presented for review. Bob made motion to approve. Stan seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Other Business Board indicated that prospective buyers of the GBI building, Kringle Candle Company, offered a presentation at a recent zoning board hearing. Display boards made available to Selectmen’s office and Virginia outlined the potential changes to the building. It was noted that it was a very positive meeting. A bylaw hearing will be held next week regarding potential zoning changes to the area. Otis Wheeler, Operations Manager for BNCTV is seeking available dates/times for Bernardston Selectmen to be featured on a series of programs to be aired on BNCTV. Tentative date of February 15th at 9:30 a.m. at the Northfield Town Hall has been set up. Selectmen in agreement. Bob explained drainage issues at the Bernardston Elementary School. Selectmen to meet at 11:00 a.m. this morning with school and town officials to discuss the project. Bob explained that all boards need to be sure to adhere to laws when it comes to giving out potential vendors to assist with private landowner needs. Discussed availability of cable access in town.
FY11 Budget Hearing – Council on Aging Present: Dianne Cornwell, Nora Bixby, Tom Newton, Donna Newton Past budgets presented outlining service statistics. Cost savings measures and cuts the Senior Center took last year explained by Director. Advocacy and outreach cases went from 88 cases in six months last year to 207 cases for the first six months of this fiscal year. The services being provided at the site were explained. It was agreed that hard economic times plays a factor. Discussed grant programs and how they assist the site. Finance Committee wants to see revenue figures from departments. Director to forward information as requested. Director noted that a budget hearing for Powers Institute has yet to be scheduled as they were waiting prospective oil costs for the upcoming fiscal year. Police Department Board in favor of maintaining a year to year for Police Chief services. Discussed defining job description for Police Chief. Assistant to establish meeting with Chief Palmeri tentatively for February 10th at 9:30 a.m. at the Public Safety Complex. Board to meet in open session with intention to convene to Executive Session to conduct contract negotiations with non-union personnel. Bernardston Elementary School Drainage Project Selectmen departed to Bernardston Elementary School. People in attendance: Dayle Doiron, PVRS Superintendent; Steve Field, facilities director; Stacey Jenkins, BES Principal; Seth Hoffsommer, custodian; Peter Shedd, Fire Chief; Bob Raymond, Select Board Chairman; Virginia Budness, Select Board; Stanley Garland, Select Board; Jane Dutcher, Finance Committee Chairman; Bob McCollum, Conservation Commission Chairman; Gary Wetherby, Highway Superintendent.; Kevin Snow, Highway Department Foreman. • Fire Department had to respond to BES on 1/25/10 for water issues in kitchen/cafeteria ~ sand bags were used to stop water from coming into the building • Bob Raymond and Peter Shedd were able to see where water was bubbling up from the ground at the low spot behind the school (near the apple tree). • The Highway Department rebuilt the drain in the driveway at the back of the school (near the cafeteria door) 2 years ago. But, the frost lifts the ground up all the way around the drain each year. • Using an aerial photograph of the property, Peter Shedd showed the path of the drains and pipes around the school and talked about the flow of the water. • Discussion about possible options • Concerns raised about size of current pipes ~ only 6 inches. 15 inches would be more appropriate • Concerns raised about how the project will be funded. Could Chapter 90 funds be used? • Concerns about the process ~ does it have to be put to bid? Could work be done by highway department with help of Mr. Deane? An excavator would be more appropriate than a backhoe for the project. • Concerns raised about needing approval from Conservation Commission. Only concern is if it creates another problem in the area for landowners • Bob Raymond felt this has been a problem for years and should be taken care of • Consensus to: Continue drainage pipe from the outback drain. Add drain and pipe to drain from corner of building (near kitchen door) Add pipe and continue it to a point past the loading dock/ kitchen entrance Add drain pipe and stone trench from corner of the building (cafeteria) to the existing drain Rebuild drain on blacktop and connect it into the pipe • Dayle Doiron stated that the district has paperwork regarding this issue/ this section of the building from the building project. Offered to share if it would be helpful in this process/conversation. • The group walked outside to survey the issues • Questions to be answered: Where is the boundary line between the school and the residential driveway? Is there a film of the drain from the building project? Adjourn Bob made motion to adjourn at 11:58 a.m. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Respectfully submitted, Rebecca M. Jurek, Administrative Assistant BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Robert R. Raymond, Chairman Virginia M. Budness Stanley D. Garland -------------------------- January 27, 2010 Call to Order Meeting called to order by Bob at 5:00 p.m. Board of Selectmen present: Stan Garland, Bob Raymond, Virginia Budness. Others present: See sign-in sheet attached. Warrant Review Bob made motion to approve payroll warrant of $27,472.17. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Bob made motion to approve vendor warrant of $28,586.26. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Board raised a question concerning a Police Department payroll item. Assistant to follow up with Police Chief. Announcements H1N1 flu clinic will be held tomorrow at the Bernardston Senior Center from 10:00 a.m. until Noon. Open to the public over age 11. Bernardston Kiwanis is having a chicken pie supper at the United Church on January 30th beginning at 5:00 p.m. Proceeds will be helping to pay for a new roof at the Kiwanis Park. Chairman noted that the town has recycled 88 tons since July 1, 2009, along with receivable rates per ton. Franklin Retirement Board has asked for a 3% increase. Noted. Governor Patrick has made a commitment to try and fully fund school, transportation, and library-related categories. Discussed Baystate ambulance contract. Assistant to follow up with insurance carrier on appropriate limits as well as Baystate with the suggested changes made by town counsel. Draft waiver of liability form for use of the Bernardston Elementary School presented. Virginia made motion to approve the form for use. Bob seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Zoning Board of Appeals is holding a hearing tomorrow evening at Town Hall regarding the GBI building. Planning Board is holding a hearing on February 11th at Town Hall regarding zoning bylaw changes. Board talked about school budget. Noted meeting tonight at Pioneer Valley Regional School regarding upcoming budget. Board encouraged the public to get involved. Building Permits issued: Squires, 65 Hillcrest Dr, roofing, siding, windows; Giard, 360 Fox Hill Rd, stove. Appointment Virginia made motion to appoint Leonard Crossman Jr., Police Chief, Town of Northfield, as a Special Police Officer to the Bernardston Police Department. Bob seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Administrative Assistant Powers Institute/Senior Center may need a substitute custodian on a temporary basis. Assistant to coordinate posting with senior center director. Noted that the Selectmen have a meeting on February 2nd regarding the sewer analysis and conceptual design report. Senator Rosenberg’s municipal conference will be held on March 27th in Northampton. FRCOG has offered to go to bid on having a professional utilities appraiser value utility-owned personal property. No cost to towns to participate. Board in favor of participating. Discussed cable contract agreement and associated attorney fees. Virginia made motion to share attorney fees with town of Northfield. Stan seconded. Discussed the cable industry in general. Unanimous. Motion carried. Evaluations for staff presented for review and signature by Chairman. Board to review. Tabled until next meeting. Date for Annual Town Caucus is March 15th and Annual Town Election is May 3rd. Discussed Annual Town Meeting date. Bob made motion to set April 28, 2010 as the Annual Town Meeting date. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Former employee has requested continuation of life insurance. Discussion. Board requested Assistant consult again with the Franklin Retirement System to clarify retirement status of the individual. Board to review personnel policy with respect to life insurance benefit. Board is in favor of granting the request for the life insurance if the individual is eligible. Tabled until next meeting. Minutes Bob made motion to approve minutes of January 20, 2010. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Other Business Resident Ed Gray explained to Selectmen that he has been attending Board of Health meetings for the past few months to learn processes and has questions and concerns relating to meeting and board procedures, including establishing fee schedules, and whether the spouse of a town official can interpret correspondence for the town official. Selectmen offered that all boards and committees are reminded of open meeting laws and that there are procedures for conducting public meetings. Selectmen to follow up on the questions asked. Stan reminded everyone that budget hearings are being conducted and that if anyone has any questions to be sure to let the Selectmen know. Selectmen will be holding a preliminary information meeting prior to the Annual Town Meeting, but are yet to set a date for the preliminary meeting. Adjourn Bob made motion to adjourn at 6:28 p.m. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Respectfully submitted, Rebecca M. Jurek, Administrative Assistant BOARD OF SELECTMEN Robert R. Raymond, Chairman Virginia M. Budness Stanley D. Garland ----------------------------------- Minutes of Board of Selectmen Meeting January 20, 2010 Town Hall Call to Order Meeting called to order by Bob at 9:00 a.m. Board of Selectmen present: Virginia Budness, Stan Garland, Bob Raymond. Others present: Jane Dutcher and Linda Raymond from Finance Committee. Public Safety Resident Dave Guilbault, Greenfield Police Chief, presented a letter to the Selectmen regarding the outstanding efforts put forth by the Bernardston Police Department with recent break-ins, high visibility of the department is noted. FY2011 Budget – Police Department Board met with Police Chief James Palmeri and discussed proposed budget. Noted community policing cut of $38,000. Discussed FY10 expenditures year to date. Chief Palmeri presented a summary of investigation, arrests, animal complaints, domestic, house checks, suspicious persons, accidents, and burglary statistics for the past seven years. Fleet schedule is good currently, but in a few years it will have a greater impact on the budget since towns will need to find the funding for vehicles with the loss of community policing funds. Chief indicated that the FY10 budget was inadequate and that he would be negligent if he submitted a 5% budget decrease as requested. Positive remarks with respect to the management of the department by Chief Palmeri were expressed from Selectmen and Finance Chairman. FY2011 Budget – Transfer Station & Highway Department Discussed budgets in detail with Gary Wetherby, Highway Superintendent and Transfer Station Supervisor. Discussed efficiency of managing of budgets. Trash bags versus sticker system discussed. Board is not recommending changing to a sticker type of system. Discussed recycling rolloff expense line item. Will add this expense to Transfer Station budget. Assistant to verify how much longer the landfill well testing needs to be conducted. Discussed the benefit of the mowing services being done internally rather than hiring out. Utilize guardrail mower more times per year, lowering contract-out services. FY10 year to date expenditures are within budget so far. Minutes Bob made motion to approve minutes of meeting held on January 13, 2010. Stan seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Other Business Newsletter deadline set for March 31st. Discussed dates for annual town meeting, annual town election and town caucus. Assistant to follow up with Town Clerk. Tabled setting some of the dates. Noted town election is May 3rd. FY2011 Budget – Emergency Management & Fire Department Peter Shedd met with Selectmen and members of Finance Committee. He noted that the Water Emergency Plan was completed in 2009. As Emergency Management Director, he is submitting a level-funded budget for FY11. As Fire Chief, a level-funded budget, 3% increase budget, and noted that if they were to submit a 5% decrease in FY11 that there would be pay cuts and less fuel in fire trucks. Line items explained. Summary of hours worked year to date presented. Fire Department is very active and has a good sized crew. Building project to be done at the Fire Station includes replacing grate work. BNCTV Otis Wheeler from BNCTV studio requested that the Selectboard consider discussing current issues on upcoming segments, with the intent of acquainting the viewing audience with how the town fuctions. Board members in agreement. Adjourn Stan made motion to adjourn at 11:36 p.m. Bob seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Respectfully submitted, Rebecca M. Jurek, Administrative Assistant BOARD OF SELECTMEN Robert R. Raymond, Chairman Virginia M. Budness Stanley D. Garland -------------------------------- Minutes of Board of Selectmen Meeting January 13, 2010 Town Hall Call to Order Meeting called to order by Bob at 5:00 p.m. Board of Selectmen present: Stan Garland, Bob Raymond Board of Selectmen absent: Virginia Budness Others present: See sign-in sheet attached. Warrant Review Bob made motion to approve vendor warrant of $35,752.25. Stan seconded. Motion carried. Bob made motion to approve payroll warrant of $27,225.38. Stan seconded. Motion carried. Baystate Ambulance Selectmen met with representatives from Baystate Ambulance, Bill Travis and Bill Montiglio, as well as Peter Shedd, Emergency Management Director and Fire Chief. Representatives explained that Baystate is the primary ambulance service to Bernardston residents and that fees used to be paid by towns for the service. A more formal written agreement presented for town review, extending to a three-year service contract. It was noted that first responders in Bernardston are well-trained. Chief Shedd is 100% in favor of the agreement with Baystate. Bill Montiglio offered positive remarks as well. Discussed services in general that are provided by ambulance staff and their levels of training. Selectmen to have town counsel review the proposed agreement and will be in contact with Mr. Travis. Building Permits as issued: Siciak, 349 Bald Mountain Rd, renovate kitchen; Bella Notte Restaurant, 199 Huckle Hill Rd, install beam support; Spaulding, 48 Merrifield Rd., install wood stove. It was noted that fees collected in December were as follows: plumbing and gas: $1,000. Wiring fees: $200. Administrative Assistant Renewal for Assistant Treasurer’s bond presented. Bob made motion to pay fee of $280 for the bond renewal. Stan seconded. Motion carried. Assistant noted that the electricity profit share program is showing a profit of over $1,300 since joining the program. Discussed bidding out insurance in FY11. Board in favor of seeking estimates on worker’s comp. Upcoming meetings include: building inspection program, regional transportation plan, and priority development sites. The PDS meeting will be February 2nd at 3:00 p.m. at the Town Hall. Discussed setting date for Annual Town Meeting. Tabled. Access issues at Cushman Library discussed. Assistant to follow up with library director regarding handicap access/restroom issues. Assistant asked if the Board would like the most recent community development plan and heritage landscape plan documents made available to voters at town meeting. Board in favor of seeking prices for copying through the print shop at the Sheriff’s office. Board received correspondence from school officials at Bernardston Elementary regarding the shape the building was left in. Bob did site visits. Building is being used daily but no further issues to date. Monitoring will continue. Request for use of gym presented. Bob made motion to allow use of the building on Thursday evenings. Stan seconded. Motion carried. Transfer Station Fee Scheduled presented for review. Tabled. Outgoing letters presented for signature: a thank you to Peter Shedd for his efforts in organizing recent flu vaccine clinics, and to area legislators for their assistance in regional school transportation funding. Shared Police Services: Bob summarized what the research showed and the scenarios. No cost savings apparent. Board stated that the town did not want a part-time chief and that it was apparent from previous meetings. Board stated they wished to file the information at this time and take no further action. Minutes Bob made motions to approve minutes from December 16, 2009 and December 30, 2009 meetings. Stan seconded. Motions carried. Bob made motion to release Executive Session minutes of May 1, 2009 and May 5, 2009. Stan seconded. Roll call vote to release the minutes: Bob, aye; Stan, aye. Motion carried. Minutes released. Fiscal Year 2011 Budget Discussed the Finance Committee request for departments to submit a FY11 budget showing a 5% decrease. Memo to be issued to departments accordingly. Departments to submit three types of budgets: level-funded, 2.5% increase, and 5% decrease. Budget hearings begin next week. Tax Collector Mona Minor explained that the most recent Fire & Water District bills show an incorrect rate in the tax rate information box of $1.15. The bills should have read $1.29. The error was due to a software glitch. The total amount of each bill was correct; it is simply that the tax rate box had the incorrect amount listed. A letter will be sent to District customers explaining the error, with associated mailing costs to be paid for by the software company. Public Hearing Bob opened a Public Hearing at 6:00 p.m. to discuss and solicit public response to the Public Housing Modernization Project, FY2010 Massachusetts Community Development Block Grant application to the Department of Housing and Community Development. The town of Bernardston (lead town) and Charlemont will contract with the Franklin County Regional Housing and Redevelopment Authority to administer the proposed projects. The proposed activities to be undertaken in Bernardston are two Public Housing Modernization projects located at 20 Hartwell Street and 73 South Street, Bernardston and one project located at 25 Main Street, Charlemont, MA. Housing staff explained the program, federal funds administered by the state. On South Street in Bernardston two units will see the following: 32 replacement windows and trim, attic insulation, furnace replacement, boundary fencing, utility shed with three sections, driveway regrading and paving, carpet replacement (1 unit), ceiling tiles and support replacements (all units), exterior siding replacement. No comments from meeting attendees regarding the South Street project. The Stratton Manor (20 units) project: 124 replacement windows and trim, roof replacement, nine awning replacements over trombe walls, replace glass framing/sill at trombe walls, replace vinyl siding at Building A, east wall; and Building B, south wall, replace plywood over foundation, overlay existing sidewalks. Comment from resident that the buildings are in good shape. Donna Cote from Housing office explained that they are awaiting cost estimates and will be getting figures to the town by the end of the month. Ms. Cote explained that if the projects are not funded that the work will not get done. The Housing Authority owns both buildings. After hearing no further comments, Bob made motion to close Public Hearing at 6:14 p.m. Stan seconded. Motion carried. Other Business The town was notified that the School Road Improvement Project in Bernardston was not selected to receive funds from the small town road assistance grant program. Bob noted that the anticipated cost of the project is in the $320,000 range. Bernardston typically receives $140,000 in highway funding money on an annual basis from the state. May need to look at other options in order to get the project completed. Adjourn Stan made motion to adjourn at 6:16 p.m. Bob seconded. Motion carried. Respectfully submitted, Rebecca M. Jurek, Administrative Assistant BOARD OF SELECTMEN absent Robert R. Raymond, Chairman Virginia M. Budness Stanley D. Garland -------------------------------------- Minutes of Board of Selectmen Meeting December 30, 2009 Town Hall Call to Order Meeting called to order by Bob at 6:00 p.m. Board of Selectmen present: Virginia Budness, Stan Garland, Bob Raymond. Others present: See sign-in sheet attached. Warrant Review Bob made motion to approve vendor warrant of $68,134.40. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Bob made motion to approve payroll warrant of $38,175.40. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Appointment John Osterhut resigned recently as a trustee to the Cushman Library. Board received recommendation from Library Director to appoint Maggie Haigis to finish his term. Virginia made motion to appoint Margaret Haigis to the Cushman Library Board of Trustees. Bob seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Best wishes to Mr. Osterhut. Board thanked Ms. Haigis for serving as a trustee and for her assistance with the newsletter throughout the year. Building Permits *Donna Giard/Chubby’s Sauces, 11 Deacon Parker Road, basement renovation *D.Bachelder/S.Smith, 134 Gill Road, stove installation Administrative Assistant Request for leave: Bob made motion to rescind December 16, 2009 vote that approved 8 hours use of sick time for an employee. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Board approved use of personal time instead. Letter of thanks being sent to Bernardston Elementary School staff member Renee Keir for the great program that was put on in December at the Bernardston Senior Center by members of her classroom. Special state election warrant presented for signature. To be held on January 19, 2009 from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Bob made motion to approve warrant. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Liquor license renewal: Bob made motion to approve license renewal for Bella Notte. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. New License: Bob made motion to rescind the vote taken at the liquor license hearing held on December 2, 2009 for an application filed by Becca de Beauport and Emilie Costello for a wine and malt restaurant license at 77 Church Street. Virginia seconded. Bob explained that since the Board has yet to receive a completed application from the applicant, that the Board needed to reconsider the vote. Unanimous. Motion carried. Assistant to notify applicants of the new vote and to advise them if they wish to reapply for a license a new hearing will need to be scheduled upon receipt of a completed application. Request for Town Hall use: U.S. Census testing has requested use of the building for a six week period. Bob made motion to allow use of the Town Hall on Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. beginning mid-January through end of February, 2010. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Received report regarding Shared Police Services from consultant. Tabled for future meeting. Recertification of Tree City USA presented. Signed. Board extended a thanks to Brad Bordewieck, Tree Warden, for his efforts. Noted upcoming public hearing regarding public housing modernization on January 13th. Assistant noted Joint Facilities Committee meeting for the new transit center on January 12th that she will be attending. Bob inquired what benefit this is to the town. Assistant explained. Stan in favor of having representation on the committee. Awaiting next meeting for the conceptual design draft related to priority development sites. Assistant to advise date and time. Draft FY11 budget from Franklin County Solid Waste District presented. Assistant explained that the budget will be finalized next month. Assistant inquired whether the Board would be in favor of looking into the expansion of FRTA bus service through Bernardston. All in favor. Assistant to follow up with FRTA. FY11 Budget & Meetings Pioneer Valley Regional School budget subcommittee meetings will be held beginning in January on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 p.m. Selectmen discussed altering their meeting schedule to allow Selectboard members to attend the meetings at PVRS. Selectmen will meet on the following dates and times: January 13 at 5:00 p.m., January 20 at 9:00 a.m., January 27 at 5:00 p.m., February 3 at 9:00 a.m., February 10 at 6:00 p.m., February 17 at 9:00 a.m., February 24 at 6:00 p.m. Assistant to schedule budget hearings. Board requested departments submit two types of budgets: level-funded and 2.5% increase. Board noted past tax rates on schedule from Assessors office. Also noted that community policing funds will no longer be available and that the town will need to start planning for capital purchases for public safety equipment purchases. School Road Bob noted that the road was flooded a week ago, up to 5”or 6”. Highway Department Bob indicated that he is seeking estimates on repairs to the recovered Burke Fort sign. Assistant reminded the Board of MassHighway sign regulations. Animal Control Damage continues on Depot Street due to beavers. Assistant to request Tree Warden do site inspection regarding potential tree removal near the site. Water levels noted. Other Business Board discussed setting up work bees to discuss warrant articles for FY11 budget. Adjourn Stan made motion to adjourn at 6:40 p.m. Bob seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Respectfully submitted, Rebecca M. Jurek, Administrative Assistant BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Robert R. Raymond, Chairman Virginia M. Budness Stanley D. Garland ----------------------------------- Minutes of Board of Selectmen Meeting December 16, 2009 Town Hall Call to Order Meeting called to order by Bob at 6:00 p.m. Board of Selectmen present: Virginia Budness, Stan Garland, Bob Raymond. Others present: See sign-in sheet attached. Warrant Review Bob made motion to approve payroll warrant of $59,830.10. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Bob made motion to approve vendor warrant of $89,315.17. Virginia seconded. Noted good portion of the warrant was for police detail for Route 5 improvement project. Unanimous. Motion carried. Announcements Winter raffle being held next week at Cushman Library. A thank you to Brett Hastings for replacing the light on the flag pole in front of Town Hall. H1N1 clinic to be held at PVRS on December 19th from 9am-1pm. Open to the public, any age. Town has received additional donations for the Town Hall exterior project. Received approximately $6,500 to date. A reminder that the donation is tax deductible. Awaiting estimate on the cost of the project. Have requested legislators readdress requirements of the prevailing wage law on projects less than $200,000. Received additional points on our Commonwealth Capital application. Building Inspector Services Board met with Jim Hawkins, Building Inspector and Trevor Davis, attorney representing Anthony Candello of 506 Brattleboro Road regarding building permits for the site and their timeframe. The property owner has a minimum of one year to complete the building, which began July 17, 2009. Where a building permit is concerned, a person may apply for an extension to their permit, but they may not ask for any extension of any bylaw. Fire Chief expressed safety concerns with means of egress from the camper the Candello family is residing in. Discussed removal of wood stove and any weight-bearing additions. Building Inspector to send a letter to Mr. Candello’s attorney regarding same. No other action necessary at this time. Will readdress July 17, 2010 if necessary. Discussed River Street property owned by Mr. Streeter and zoning for same. Mr. Hawkins explained that the building inspector has no authority to overrule a decision made by the Zoning Board of Appeals, and to keep in mind that the Zoning Board of Appeals can issue a Special Permit. Planning Board Chairman Janice Leh noted that some zoning bylaw changes will be put forward at upcoming public hearings. Noted that departments need to keep communication lines open. Discussed potential café at 77 Church Street property. No occupancy certificate issued yet per building inspector. Discussed septic system at the site and the approval process (signatures required, etc). When asked by a Selectboard member, Bob Eddy, a member of the Board of Health, if a Title V fails, does the owner have two years to repair, he stated that he would need to check with the Board of Health. Mr. Hawkins stated that the building inspector enforces conditions of a special permit. Discussed jurisdiction and authority. Bob Eddy asked if the Board of Health were to be against the Board of Selectmen, which board does town counsel represent. Building inspector stated that if the Board of Health were to have a conflict with another board, the Board of Health would need to hire their own attorney. Administrative Assistant Liquor licenses presented for renewal: P.A.M. Phase I, Inc. d/b/a The Hollywood, Fall Town Spirits, Inc., JPK Corner Country Store, Inc. d/b/a The Country Corner, Bernardston Veterans Organization, Inc., Crumpin-Fox Club, Inc., , Jesse Arron Corp Drive-In, Inc. d/b/a Four Leave Clover Restaurant, and A1 Limited, LLC d/b/a Antionio’s II Pizza. Bob made motion to approve all licenses as presented, pending confirmation that taxes are up to date. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. One license awaits certificate of inspection, CUCA, Inc. d/b/a/ Bella Notte Ristorante. Tabled until next meeting. Chairman noted fees collected with the licenses. WMECO has requested a point of contact regarding emergencies be designated. Peter Shedd to be the designee, with Chairman of Board of Selectmen as a back-up designee. Bernardston Water Emergency Plan presented for signature. Signed. Request for use of Bernardston Elementary School presented. More information needed. Bob to follow up. Liability issues raised. Assistant to follow up with insurance carrier. Report for installation of photovoltaic panels at landfill presented as conducted by Nexamp, as coordinated through the Waste District. Options and cost analysis noted. WMECO to provide a report as well. Briefly discussed town buildings and PV panels. Appointments: Bob made motion to appoint Janice Deane as an Election Worker. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Virginia made motion to appoint Linda Raymond as a Registrar. Stan seconded. Bob abstained. Motion carried. Request for leave presented. Personal or sick use questioned. Assistant explained the request and left it to the Board to decide type of use. Bob made motion to approve use of sick time. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Assistant to attend Waste District meeting tomorrow evening. Noted that a draft cable agreement will be forthcoming. Bob explained what is involved with cable renewal contract. Other Business Board noted that the NMH campus in Northfield has been sold to Hobby Lobby and has agreed to allow C.S. Lewis Foundation open a college on the site by 2012. Volunteers needed on cable negotiations committee. Letters being sent to area legislators regarding school-related funding issues and prevailing wage law. Building permits issued to: Oakes, Seaver, Kiwanis, Gray, Powers, Brechenser, and Streeter. Permits total over $54,000 in value as granted in November. Selectmen wish to have details of permits available at each future meeting. Noted. Board asked that all departments be reminded to post proper meetings notices in keeping with the open meeting law. Stan made motion to pay out forty hours of comp time to Highway Superintendent. Bob seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. The Burke Fort sign has been recovered by MassHighway officials and will be turned over to our highway department. Minutes Bob made motion to approve minutes of afternoon meeting held on December 2, 2009. Virginia seconded. Motion carried. Bob made motion to approve minutes of evening meeting held on December 2, 2009. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Board extended Happy Holiday wishes to all. Adjourn Bob made motion to adjourn at 7:26 p.m. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Respectfully submitted, Rebecca M. Jurek, Administrative Assistant BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Robert R. Raymond, Chairman Virginia M. Budness Stanley D. Garland -------------------------------------------
Minutes of Board of Selectmen Meeting December 2, 2009 Town Hall Call to Order Meeting called to order by Bob at 6:00 p.m. Board of Selectmen present: Virginia Budness, Stan Garland, Bob Raymond. Others present: Jane Dutcher, Janice Leh, Emilie Costello, David Streeter, Becky Jurek, Otis Wheeler. Warrant Review Bob made motion to approve payroll warrant of $29,882.01. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Bob made motion to approve vendor warrant of $456,879.20. Virginia seconded. Noted nearly $420,000 paid to PVRS. Chairman explained that the warrants are reviewed in depth. Unanimous. Motion carried. Board asked that reminders be sent to all departments to be certain invoices are processed in a timely manner. School Building Use Bob announced that the Selectmen had met earlier in the day with Stacey Jenkins, Principal, Bernardston Elementary School. Selectmen approved use of the building (gymnasium area) for various programs. Board will readdress if any issues develop. The elementary school is being used more since Pioneer now charges user fees. Concerns expressed with utility costs and liability. Board indicated that if the school is closed during the day that evening programs would be cancelled. If the elementary school needs to be used in the case of an emergency, the Chairman of the Bernardston Board of Selectmen can approve use of the building. Past Town Meeting Business Discussed Tax Increment Financing (TIF) agreement between the town and Country Oil, Inc. Bob explained the process for granting abatement to Country Oil, Inc. for prior years, as well as remaining years. Taxpayers voted to approve granting a TIF to Country Oil, Inc. in 2003 for a period of 10 years once the building was complete, but an agreement was never presented to Country Oil officials. Since the building was complete in 2007, Country Oil could be entitled to abatements for 2007, 2008 and 2009 totaling $1,725.79. Bernardston Board of Assessors to review the request for the abatement at their meeting tomorrow. Draft TIF agreement presented for review and signature. Bob made motion to enter into an agreement with Country Oil, Inc. in keeping with the 2003 town meeting vote. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. License Renewals Class I (Airtight, Inc. d/b/a Aldo’s Harley Davidson, Amidon & Son Sales, Inc), Class II (Denault’s Auto Sales, Beckwith’s, Bernardston Auto Wrecking), and Class III (Bernardston Auto Wrecking) licenses presented for renewal. Amusement Device license: Antonio’s II. Virginia made motion to approve all renewals. Bob seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Upcoming Meetings Assistant will be attending Joint Facilities Committee of the Franklin Regional Transit Authority next Tuesday morning. Community Development Strategy Board of Selectmen discussed public housing modernization projects. Virginia made motion to include Public Housing in the Community Section of the Town’s Community Development Strategy (CDS). Stan seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. CDS to be updated accordingly. FY11 Budget Preparation & Evaluations Assistant noted that memos to staff regarding FY11 budget requests and evaluations will be issued to department heads. State Highway Requests for reimbursement from MassHighway for guardrail and equipment presented. Bob made motion to approve request for reimbursement for guardrail expenses of $6,160.75. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Bob made motion to approve request for reimbursement towards equipment purchase of $4,700.00. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Other Business Selectmen set December 16th for the Holiday Pot Luck for staff. Minutes Bob made motion to approve minutes of November 18, 2009. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Liquor License Hearing Bob opened Liquor License Hearing at 6:32 p.m. for an application filed by Becca de Beauport and Emilie Costello for a wine and malt restaurant liquor license at 77 Church Street, Bernardston, Massachusetts. Board of Health member, Sandy Giard, noted that she was tape recording the meeting. Ms. Costello explained their intentions to open a tea/lunch café which would be open for breakfast and lunch. The business name is “The Queen of Cups”. Title V inquiry. David Streeter, owner of the property, stated that the Board of Health said the septic system was ok two months ago. Selectmen stated that they attended a Board of Health meeting two weeks ago and that the Chairman of the Board of Health advised the Selectmen that since a Title V hasn’t been done that he recommended the Selectmen not issue a license. Ms. Costello inquired why a liquor license can’t be issued due to a Title V, and how they are related. Mr. Streeter noted that even if a system were to fail, a property owner has up to two years to repair. Stan made motion to approve the liquor license. Virginia abstained. It was noted that the alcohol beverage control commission needs to approve the application. Comments included that the town is in favor of promoting new business. Stan asked the Chairman to move the question. Bob seconded. Motion carried. Bob closed the hearing at 6:50 p.m. Personnel Received correspondence from Zoning Board of Appeals Chairman indicating their recommendation to hire Jessica St. Amand for the vacant Zoning Board of Appeals clerk position at $15/hour. Comments included the need for clerical assistance for a number of committees/boards. Noted the Board of Health has not posted for a clerk yet. Discussed Fees for ZBA hearings get placed into revolving fund which assists in paying ZBA expenses. Discussed pay scale. Selectmen in favor of setting the ZBA clerk position at $12.50/hour. Animal Control Board has been notified of beaver issues along the Railroad Street area. Stan to follow up with Police Chief and consult with the Board of Health and Animal Control Officer. Discussed issuing a letter to legislators with recommendations relating to various issues: prevailing wage, school choice, transportation, charter schools, special education, and regionalization. Bob to draft and ready for next meeting. Personnel Board met Jessica St. Amand, potential Zoning Board of Appeals clerk position. Discussed rate of pay for the position. Stan made motion to hire Ms. Amand to the position at $12.50 per hour. Bob seconded. Ms. Amand indicated she was in agreement. Unanimous. Motion carried. Assistant to notify ZBA Chairman of the rate set. Highway Department Noted that the Highway Superintendent will be purchasing a solution to mix with sand to put on roads during the winter months. Building Inspector The town’s building inspector received a letter from Anthony Candello’s attorney regarding his 506 Brattleboro Road property. Board requested a meeting be set up with the Building Inspector for clarification of the bylaws. Tentative meeting date of December 9, 2009 at 9:00 a.m. Assistant to follow up with inspector and notify Selectmen, Board of Health, Fire Chief, Planning and Zoning Boards. Adjourn Bob made motion to adjourn at 7:31 p.m. Virginia seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Respectfully submitted, Rebecca M. Jurek, Administrative Assistant BOARD OF SELECTMEN Robert R. Raymond, Chairman Virginia M. Budness Stanley D. Garland
The Board of Selectmen has several important responsibilities under state statute: the power to prepare the town meeting warrant or agenda; the power to make appointments to town boards and offices; the power to employ professional administrative staff and town counsel; the power to sign warrants for the payment of all town bills; and the authority to grant licenses and permits. Apart from the strict legal responsibilities, the Board of Selectmen sets policy and strategic direction, coordinates the activities of other boards, and hears appeals and resolves problems that have not been settled at lower levels. The Board works through its Administrative Assistant who oversees the day-to-day operation of the Town under the Board's direction. |
|
|
