The weekly meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday evening, July 26, 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
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Present: Eric W. Greene, Chairman; James M. Hardy
George Samia, Town Administrator
Karen Grabau, Adm. Assistant
John Stuebing, Town Counsel
Not Present: David L. Walsh, Clerk
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M/Greene, s/Hardy, a unanimous vote, move to appoint James M. Hardy, Clerk pro-tem for the evening.
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M/Hardy, s/Greene, a unanimous vote, move to approve the minutes of the July 12, 2004 meeting.
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M/Hardy, s/Greene, a unanimous vote, move to approve the reappointment of Maryann Road to the Historical Commission for the period of July 1, 2004 to June 30, 2007.
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M/Hardy, s/Greene, a unanimous vote, move to approve the reappointment of Robert T. Looney as Alternate to the Zoning board of Appeals for the period of July 1, 2004 to June 30, 2007.
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M/Hardy, s/Greene, a unanimous vote, move to approve the request of Maria Buckley of the Friends of Sachem Rock for use of Sachem Rock Farm on October 16, 2004 from 10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. for a Fall Festival.
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Appointment
Fire Chief Ryon Pratt and Town Administrator, George Samia provided an update relative to the July 22 event at Town Hall.
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Mr. Samia explained that a sprinkler head let go in the upstairs storage room and the resulting water damaged the offices of Treasurer/Collector, Assessors and Town Accountant. Noted that there is extensive damage to the ceilings, furniture and electronic/computer equipment. Beginning shortly after the event, agencies/companies were contacted to begin cleanup efforts. Noted that Chief Pratt assistance has been invaluable. As of today, all departments have been notified that Chief Pratt has been appointed as Coordinator for the cleanup and renovations.
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Chief Pratt explained the incident; sprinkler head let go and the resulting water that was released caused substantial damage; noted this was an isolated event; tarps and salvage cloths were brought in and covered the various desk, equipment, etc. Friday an Emergency Department Head meeting of those offices directly involved was held and set a strategy for immediate needs, etc.
Damages are being assessed and we have contracted several companies, i.e. HVAC, movers, air quality, computer, etc. which are working at this time to get the offices up and running. At this time, checks will be done on the walls to see if there is water damage; monitors will be placed to check on water, etc and a complete assessment will be done on all damages. Town’s Insurance Agent and the Adjuster have worked well with the Town; all necessary contractors are on board and ready to begin the renovation process. Will meet daily with George to keep him updated on the process.
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Mr. Samia reported that he spoke with a state official in the Department of Capital and Assets Management regarding whether the Town can override Chapter 30B relative to renovations. Was informed that if we write a letter requesting a waiver, that one would be granted. Requested that the Board vote to declare a State of Emergency relative to the event of July 22 and authorize the Town Administrator to request a waiver.
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Board of Selectmen -2- July 26, 2004
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M/Hardy, s/Greene, a unanimous vote, move to declare a State of Emergency relative to the event of July 22 and to authorize the Town Administrator to request a waiver from the Department of Capital and Assets management relative to Chapter 30B.
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Chief Pratt noted that furniture and equipment to replace what has been damaged can be purchased under existing contracts. At this time, a 30-day window to complete all the necessary renovations and have all offices back into their normal offices is the target. Also, noted that temporary repairs have been made to the sprinkler system and the system is up and running. The failed sprinkler head is in Fire Department custody and an investigation is ongoing.
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Board thanked Chief Pratt and Mr. Samia for their work.
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Appointment
Mr. Hardy noted that he was unable to attend the Eagle Scout Ceremony for Adam Finlay. Introduced Adam Finlay and presented a Citation congratulating him on attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. It was noted that Adam has constructed picnic tables and a display case for the Public Library. Hearty applause was afforded Adam by those present.
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Appointment
Fouad Ahmed and Maryanne Ahmed met with the Board relative to their application for the transfer of a Common Victualer License for Athens Pizza.
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Mr. Ahmed explained that he has no plans for any renovations at the restaurant; has limited experience in restaurants; his wife has 14 years experience; plans to improve service to customers and may change some menu items. Stated that they will not be seeking a transfer of the Wine & malt License and that the license will be turned in by the licensee upon sale of the business.
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M/Hardy, s/Greene, a unanimous vote, move to approve the transfer of the Common Victualer License from PTT Corp dba Athens Pizza to Fouad Ahmed dba Athens Pizza, 224 North Bedford Street.
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Open Forum
No one was present.
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Town Administrator Report
Discussed Board’s meeting schedule. It was agreed that the Board would meet on August 2 and cancel the meeting scheduled for August 9. Requested that the Town Clerk be notified of the change in meeting dates.
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Reminders
Planning Board vacancy – Ron Ross resigned
Cable Access Director – job posted in newspaper – hope to have new person on board by September.
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Town Counsel Update
Rivers Edge – spoke to Mrs. Carcardi who was concerned with what she felt was a lack of progress; then spoke to attorney for the developer who stated that they planned to settle and that he would draft an agreement shortly.
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ABCC – Mrs. Grabau and Mrs. Johnson attended a seminar by the ABCC regarding the new Blue Book.
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Board of Selectmen -3- July 26, 2004
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Beatty Oil Spill suit – Treasurer has wired payment in suit. Settlement agreement should be sent by EPA shortly.
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M/Hardy, s/Greene, move to close Open Session and go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing litigation issues and will not be returning to Open Session.
VOTE: Yes – Greene, Hardy
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Meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m.
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