Work Session
February 7, 2011
Present were: Mayor Grenier, Councilors Evans, Rozek, Danderson, Remillard, Poulin, Landry; absent were Councilors Cayer and McCue.
Others present included: Henry Noel Waste Water Superintendent, Mike Perreault PWD Director and, Sharon Gauthier, Executive Director of AVRRDD; Jonathan Edwards, Jake Halgren, media and public.
Non-Public Session
Mayor Grenier opened the work sessions and asked to bring the non-public session forward on the agenda. Councilor Danderson moved to enter into non-public session per RSA 91-A:3 II(d) Consideration of the acquisition, sale or lease of real or personal property which, if discussed in public, would likely benefit a party or parties whose interests are adverse to those of the general public; Councilor Landry seconded and the motion carried unanimously by roll call. Ms. Gauthier, Mr. Perreault and Mr. Noel stayed to participate in the non-public session.
Councilor Rozek moved to come out of non-public session; Councilor Evans seconded and the motion carried unanimously by roll call.
Councilor Rozek moved to seal the minutes as releasing them would render the proposed action ineffective; Councilor Remillard seconded and the motion carried unanimously by roll call.
Conway Bypass Resolution
Mr. MacQueen reminded the Council that North County Council has been working on getting a resolution from all the northern towns supporting the continuation of the Conway Bypass. The proposed City resolution would go through the normal city process.
Legal Fees Discussion
Mr. MacQueen informed Councilors that legal fees have significantly exceeded expectations. Budgeted this year was $102,000; however costs for expert testimony and PILOT negotiations were unexpected at budget time. We are currently $55,000 over thus far, and we know that there are further bills coming. Mr. MacQueen said that he is not suggesting an appropriation of new money for the expense; it will likely be absorbed in the whole city budget. He also estimated that costs could be in the range of $50,000 more by year end.
Councilor Landry questioned an appropriation of $42,000 to Mr. Sansoucy and Mr. MacQueen confirmed that it was for utility updates.
Councilor Evans commented that there was a budget and he was expecting to work within that throughout the year. He said the overrun may have changed his ideas about getting involved in the PUC process. He also hoped to hear about such potential overruns before they happen.
President’s Day Holiday.
It was the consensus of the Council to meet on Tuesday, 2/22 in observance of President’s Day and avoiding any additional costs for staff to work on a holiday.
Other
Mr. MacQueen acknowledged a letter of resignation from Councilor Cayer that was received today. According to the Charter, the position needs to be filled within 30 days of the vacancy. Mayor Grenier suggested advertising that letters of interest will be accepted until February 24th at 4:30 at City Clerk’s office.
Councilor Evans mentioned that there is a Traffic and Safety meeting on February 28 at 5:00 p.m. and he asked Councilor Poulin to come representing Ward 4.
Councilor Cayer will be presented with a plaque to honor his service on February 22nd.
Respectfully Submitted,
Susan Tremblay
Administrative Assistant
| 
