Minutes of the Select Board
Meeting location: Town offices
Date: January 23, 2020
Members present: Jay Jacobs, Kathy Scott, Andrea Hodson
Meeting opened: 7:00 pm. Meeting continued: 10:00 pm to January 24, 2020 at 9:00 am
Attendees: Gus Lerandeau, Fred Aldredge, Seth Kallman, David O’Neil, Ranae O’Neil, Harry Wolhandler, Pam Thayer, Don Scott
Highway Dept – The SB discussed potential road work projects and the bid process with Gus Lerandeau and Fred Aldredge of All States Asphalt, and the Road Agent. All States will submit a formal proposal in the coming week. In addition, the Select Board will work with the Road Agent to refine bid specifications for paving and subsequently will advertise.
Gravel pit, Jaquith Road – The board discussed the results of the test pits and soil analysis done on various sections of the parcel. Mr. Kallman recommended town purchase of the operation, subject to approval at Town Meeting, believing the cost to be fair and that it’s a good opportunity for the town to secure gravel resources for road maintenance, for much less cost, well into the future. Following discussion, Andrea Hodson moved that the SB draft a Warrant Article for the purchase of the O’Neil gravel pit at a price of $100,000. Kathy Scott seconded. All voted in favor. The SB noted that, if voters approve the purchase, discussion of management of the operation and reclamation plans will be occur.
Sesquicentennial Committee – 150thCelebration – Committee chairs updated the board on the fundraising under way, including the lining up of sponsors. For budget purposes, all donations to the town to help defray the costs for the event will go in the same account line. The committee anticipates money raised from the sale of celebration merchandise will also substantially cover expenses. The SB office will notify committee chairs when/as contributions come in.
HCC – The SB moved and voted unanimously in favor to accept in principal, and based on final review, the Conservation Commission’s proposed Warrant Article.
SB signed the pay warrant in the amount of $137, 483.44.
SB acknowledged receipt of correspondence from Anne Howe regarding paving Mason and Willard Hill Roads. The SB has established this as a priority for roadwork in 2020.
Traffic Safety/Church Street – The SB reviewed responses from Church Street residents regarding turning the two-way portion between the parking lot and upper Main Street into one-way, and will revisit the matter following Town Meeting.
SB continued budget work in preparation for the Budget Hearing next Thursday, January 30, 6:00 pm.
At 10:00 pm, the SB moved and voted unanimously in favor to continue the meeting to Friday, January 24, 2020 at 9:00 am at town offices.
Continued Meeting Minutes of the Select Board
Meeting location: Town offices
Date: January 24, 2020
Members present: Jay Jacobs, Kathy Scott, Andrea Hodson
Meeting opened: 9:00 am. Meeting continued: 12:00 pm to Tuesday, January 28, 2020 at 10:00 am
Attendees: Fire Chief Wayne Derosia, Police Chief Buddy Driscoll, Road Agent Wes Tarr, Library Trustees Karen Coteleso, Sharon Wilder and Michael Price
The SB held budget discussions with Police, Fire, Highway Departments and with Library Trustees, including costs for equipment, vehicle purchase and repairs and building maintenance.
The preliminary budget will be presented at the first Budget Hearing on Thursday, January 30, at 6:00 pm.
The SB noted that Paychex is reconciling the Police Chief’s W-2 report.
At 12:00 pm, the SB moved and voted unanimously in favor to continue the meeting to Tuesday, January 28, at 10:00 am at town offices, for further budget preparation.
Continued Meeting Minutes of the Select Board
Meeting location: Town offices
Date: January 28, 2020
Members present: Jay Jacobs, Kathy Scott, Andrea Hodson
Meeting opened: 10:00 am. Meeting adjourned: 4:15 pm
The SB discussed and drafted the Warrant for presentation at the January 30 Budget Hearing.
The board noted that the Broadband Warrant article was being drafted by Bond Counsel. The broadband committee will work out details with potential provider on cost breakdowns. All subject to approval by the Select Board and town voters, and with requisite bond hearings to take place.