November 18, 2013
The meeting of the Board of Selectmen was called to order by Chairman Connor with all members in attendance except Mr. Featherston.
Mr. Connor recognized Chief Gentile who presented Michael Delorme as the Department’s first Captain. The Chief stated Captain Delorme has been a 30 year member of the Department and was promoted to the position of lieutenant eleven years ago. The Captain will handle all of the administrative details of the Department associated with inspections as well as the day to day operations of the South Fire Station.
Mrs. Devitt, Mrs. Odabashian and Mr. Laviolette appeared before the Board to present a $300,000 request for borrowing from the State’s revolving fund for septic repairs.
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion, the Board unanimously voted to approve the $300,000 loan authorization from the State’s revolving fund. Under discussion Mr. Soter questioned the number of residents in the program who could otherwise connect to the Town sewer. Mr. Fraine will be reviewing this matter with the Health Agent.
Chairman Connor opened the Public Hearing for the Tax Classification hearing. Mr. Laviolette presented information relative to the tax rate and the impact varying classifications would have on the commercial and residential rate.
Mr. Noble and Mr. Joyner of the Board of Assessors were present and confirmed that neither commercial nor residential values have substantially changed in the past year. Mr. Mayhew expressed his desire to allow the rate split to remain at .94. Mr. Spencer agreed, expressing his concern regarding the water debt exclusion and the impact it will have on the residential rate. Mr. Soter agreed, stating this was not the year to reduce the split although his preference would be to broaden it if possible.
On a Mayhew/Soter motion, the Board unanimously voted to adopt a split of .94 and to leave the Public Hearing open at the request of Mr. Laviolette in case there are any administrative requirements presented by D.O.R. which need to be addressed as part of the hearing. The Board will close the hearing at its December 2 meeting.
Minutes of November 18, 2013
Page 2
Mr. & Mrs. Chimeno, owners of Goody’s Diner, appeared before the Board to request permission to operate a diner under a Temporary Common Victuallar license until such time as they can appear before the Board to have a formal Public Hearing. Mr. Fraine explained it had come to the Town’s attention that the diner has been operating without a license for several months. In October, the Chimeno's began the process of applying for a license; however, they continued to
operate the restaurant. Mr. Fraine informed the Chimeno’s they must gain permission from the Selectmen in order to continue operation.
Mr. Chimeno explained he was unaware of the licensing requirement. He explained his restaurant was operating from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. He is in the process of completing requirements with the Fire Department.
Mr. Mayhew asked how long the Chimeno’s will need to be in full compliance. Mr. Chimeno stated 4- 6 weeks.
Mr. Soter expressed his concern that allowing the Chimeno’s to operate without a license sends the wrong message to business owners who comply with permitting requirements. He stated his desire to see the Chimeno’s come to compliance quickly if they are permitted to remain open.
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion, the Board unanimously voted to allow Goody’s Diner to continue operating until they appear before the Board on December 16th for their Common Victualler’s License, at which time all issues must be resolved.
Mr. Fraine provided the Board with a brief Police Department staffing update. Mr. Fraine stated he had met with Chief Daigle and Lt. Russell along with Mr. Connor earlier in the day to discuss the proposal to increase staffing. The Chief explained there are several Civil Service issues which will be resolved in the coming weeks and the Chief will be in a position to address the staff requests during the budget process in late January.
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion, the Board unanimously voted to appoint Eva Marie Gamache to a vacant position on the C.O.A. Board. It was noted that Ms. Gamache is a town resident.
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion, the Board unanimously voted to approve all license renewals on the attached list dated November 18th, with the exception of Countryside Motel which was held.
Minutes of November 18, 2013
Page 3
Mr. Soter asked if anyone was aware of increased problems at the motel. Mr. Fraine, as well as Board members, stated they were unaware of any increased trouble at the motel.
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion, the Board unanimously voted to approve the license renewal for Countryside Motel.
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion, the Board unanimously voted to accept the proposal of New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC and authorize the DPW Director and Town Administrator to sign lease agreements and other documents related to the lease of space on the Chestnut Street standpipe, as recommended by Mr. DiMartino. Under discussion, Mr. Soter asked to ensure the insurance requirements are thoroughly reviewed given the value of the Town’s standpipe.
On a Spencer/Soter motion, the Board voted to approve the November 4th minutes as submitted. Mr. Mayhew abstained due to his absence at that meeting.
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion, the Board voted to approve the placement of signs on Fox Run Road as recommended by the Safety Officer. Mr. Soter abstained as he lives on Fox Run.
Mr. Connor requested the Board review its policy regarding appointments and the interview process for Selectmen appointees. Specifically, Mr. Connor expressed his preference to have any candidate for a Board appointed by the Selectmen to be interviewed by the Selectmen. All members agreed that future candidates for appointment should appear before the Selectmen and applications for appointment should be submitted to the Board of Selectmen and not the applicable Board.
Under new business, Mr. Soter asked the Board to consider the formation of an Economic Development Board. He suggested volunteers with business experience could lend help on such a Board. Mr. Spencer stated this initiative was included in the 2010 Master Plan recommendations. All members agreed this was a good idea and Mr. Soter offered to further refine the proposal and bring it back to the Board at a future meeting.
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion, the Board unanimously voted to adjourn the meeting at 8:15 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Denis C. Fraine
Town Administrator
| 
