March 16, 2015
The March 16 meeting of the Board of Selectmen was called to order by Chairman Connor with all members in attendance except Mr. Martinis.
Mr. Connor welcomed State Senator Ryan Fattman who was in attendance to provide a legislative update. Senator Fattman updated the Board on the budget process and particularly Chapter 70 funding. He explained Chapter 70 funding has increased significantly in recognition of the pressures school districts are experiencing particularly with rising Special Education costs.
Mr. Soter questioned whether there has been any thought with regard to the burden placed on Towns by technical high schools, such as the rising costs we are experiencing with Blackstone Valley Tech. Senator Fattman stated there is nothing under consideration with respect to technical schools but he would be happy to look into this matter.
Mr. Spencer asked the Senator if Bellingham would continue to receive timely Chapter 90 payments. Senator Fattman answered Towns would continue to receive the “Pre-2014” levels but would not receive the additional funding provided this past year.
Mr. Fraine asked the Senator if additional snow emergency aid will be under consideration. Senator Fattman stated it is under consideration and may possibly be allocated in the spring.
Senator Fattman stated he would attempt to schedule an appearance before the Board at least twice per year unless the Board requests an additional meeting.
Mr. DiMartino appeared before the Board to provide an update from the “Road Committee”. Mr. Collamati and Mr. Lavallee were also in attendance representing the Committee.
Mr. DiMartino presented the Board with a map (attached) outlining roads throughout Town which will receive work during the upcoming year. Mr. Soter asked if additional work could be funded by debt authorization in the spring, which would be repaid in the fall with Free Cash. Mr. DiMartino stated this would be a viable approach for future years but he would not be able to get any additional projects advertised and under construction this summer even if the funds were available. Mr. Soter asked Mr. DiMartino if any plans were considered for repairing the section of Rte. 126 between Crook’s corner and the South Main Street bridge, which is scheduled for reconstruction this summer. Mr. DiMartino answered this project is not included at this time. All members agreed they would like to
see a project cost estimate for the repaving of this section of roadway.
Mr. Fraine presented the results from a recent bid invitation for developers interested in developing a solar project at the site of the Pearl Street mill. Mr. Fraine informed the Board he
Minutes of March 16, 2015
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had interviewed prospective developers along with Mr. Mayhew and Mr. Laviolette. The recommendation of the Committee was to ask the Board to award the project to Sun Edison. Mr. Mayhew stated he was very impressed with Sun Edison’s proposal and also with Mr. Joseph Fitzpatrick, who is a member of the Sun Edison development team.
On a Soter/Spencer motion, the Board voted three in favor and Mr. Mayhew abstaining to award the Pearl Street Mill Solar Project to Sun Edison subject to a contract agreement with the Town.
On a Mayhew/Soter motion, the Board unanimously voted to approve a Seasonal All Alcohol and Common Victuallar license to the Chowder Bowl.
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion, the Board unanimously voted to award a Seasonal Common Victuallar and a Seasonal All Alcohol License to New England Country Club.
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion the Board unanimously voted to approve a Common Victuallar License for the Rosewood Dairy.
On a Mayhew/Soter motion, the Board unanimously approved the relocation of a Verizon pole as outlined on the attached sketch and subject to the approval of the DPW Director.
On a Mayhew/Soter motion, the Board unanimously voted to approve the February 21and March 2 minutes.
On a Mayhew/Soter motion, the Board unanimously voted to approve the Auxiliary Police Officers as recommended by Chief Bartlett (attached).
On a Mayhew/Spencer motion, the Board unanimously voted to adjourn at 8:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Denis C. Fraine
Town Administrator
cfc
Attachments
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