CITY OF BERLIN
New Hampshire
Minutes of Council Budget Session of 3/11/15
Council Conference Room
6:30 pm
Members:
Councilor Theberge
Councilor Morgan-Allain
Councilor Nelson
Councilor Remillard
Councilor Higbee
Councilor Gentili
City Staff:
Pamela Laflamme, City Planner
Debra Patrick, City Clerk
Eric Kaminski, Airport Manager
Patricia Chase, Finance Director
At 6:30 p.m. Councilor Remillard called the meeting to order.
AIRPORT:
Eric Kaminski presented the airport budget and discussed the difficulty in determining the fuel expenses and revenue in light of the recent fluctuations in prices. The potential future development of The Balsams was also discussed. If the development takes place, then the airport stands to see a higher level of air traffic. Councilor Theberge asked what potential changes will take place if The Balsam’s project is approved and moves forward. Eric explained that the City may have to invest in a ramp reconfiguration, additional staffing and an upgrade to the fuel truck.
BIDPA:
Michael Caron, Chairman for Bidpa, reviewed the Bidpa budget. There is not current revenue but Bidpa is looking to invest in other properties. Currently Bidpa is maintaining the property located at 121 Main Street and has sold its interests in the Industrial Park.
OUTSIDE AGENCIES:
Mark Belanger from the Chamber of Commerce requested that the City continue paying membership dues. Membership has increased to 201 and Mr. Belanger indicated that most of Berlin’s businesses are members. Membership dues help to pay operating costs such as salaries and utilities. He also explained that the funds raised at the ATV Festival are split with the ATV Club. The Chamber uses their share to market the festival. Mr. Belanger shared that the events planned by the Chamber promote a sense of pride among North Country citizens.
Fran Cusson from AV Home Care requested that the City continue their support of $8,774.00. The City’s contribution supplements Berlin citizens so they can remain in their homes as long as possible. The services rendered include homemaking, running errands, meal preps, and laundry to name a few. Ms. Cusson reported that they have 230 clients. Councilor Remillard asked if they ever turn someone away and Ms. Cusson replied that they have never done so.
Tom McCue from the Main Street Program requested $17,000 in support of their initiative to improve the downtown area of Berlin. He explained that they have no paid staff and everything they accomplish is through volunteerism. The Main Street Program develops strategies to encourage businesses, promotes beautification of the area and plans events. Their events not only benefit the citizens of Berlin but draw visitors from other areas. Their biggest event is the Parade of Lights and the purchase/installation of Christmas decorations. The fireworks display had a cost of $3,600 this year. Councilor Nelson inquired about changing the date so that it doesn’t fall on the growing popular Black Friday that often draws people away from the area which hinders the attendance to this event.
Mr. McCue agreed that this would be discussed at a further date. Mr. McCue also mentioned that Drive in the 50’s Night has been going on for nearly 20 years. The Main Street program also hosts the Downtown Block Party during the ATV Festival which has become quite popular. This year they promoted a Christmas ornament which highlighted Berlin City Hall.
Andrea Gagne and Patty Stolte, representing Tri County Community Action, requested continued support for their many programs. Information regarding Service Link was distributed and discussed. Andrea reported that last year the Homeless Program assisted a cumulative 163 citizens of Berlin and provided over 10,000 congregate meals to Berlin residents. Ms. Stolte shared that there is a great need within the City’s population for their services with 20% of the population at age 60 or above.
ADMINISTRATION
Debra Patrick, City Clerk reviewed the Mayor and Council, Cemetery, Elections and City Clerk Administrative Budgets. There will be two elections during the FY16 fiscal year. In the future, the City may see a reduction in the Elections budget due to the change in the number of voting stations from four sites to three.
Councilor Remillard asked if citizens are allowed to pre-buy a burial lot and Ms. Patrick confirmed that the Cemetery Trustees had voted to allow the sale when requested. Councilor Theberge inquired about the Cates Family burial lot on Cates Hill. Ms. Patrick and Ms. Laflamme explained that the current owner of the land has requested that the City maintain this lot. Ms. Laflamme continues to work with the owner to resolve the matter.
Patty Chase reviewed the Administrations expense and revenue budgets. Pam Laflamme introduced the new IT budget and reviewed each line item.
The meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted by Patricia Chase
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