The weekly meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday evening, May 2, 2005 at 7:00 p.m.
Present: David L. Walsh, Chairman;
Peter A. Hamilton, Clerk;
Theresa McNulty
George Samia, Town Administrator
Catherine Johnson, Senior Clerk
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty; abstain: Hamilton, vote to approve the minutes of the April 25, 2004 meeting.
Town Administrator Report
Mr. Samia reported on the ongoing budget process.
Reminders
East Bridgewater Hazardous Waste Day, May 7, 2005 8:00 a.m. – noon at Thatcher Street BFI site.
DPW Committee Public Forum – Thursday, May 5, 2005 at 7:00 p.m.
Mailbag
Carriage House, Whitman Street Update – Town Counsel will report back
Habitat for Humanity Update
Peer to Peer Review Grant Update
Board/Committee Appointments
Pleasant Street building sprinkler system
Cumberland Farms appeal update
Old Colony Planning Council Meeting – Ms McNulty attended and reported to the Board that she met with several South Shore community leaders and is hopeful they can facilitate grants in the near future.
Board of Selectmen -2- May 2, 2005
Appointments
The following department heads made brief budget presentations:
7:45 p.m. Town Accountant
7:55 p.m. Town Clerk
8:05 p.m. Assessors
8:15 p.m. Treasurer/Collector
8:25 p.m. Planning/Building
8:35 p.m. Conservation
8:45 p.m. Council on Aging
8:55 p.m. Veterans’ Services
9:05 p.m. Board of Health
9:15 p.m. Fire Department
9:30 p.m. Police Department
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to adjourn meeting at 9:35 p.m.
______________________________Clerk
Board of Selectmen
The weekly meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday evening, May 16, 2005 at 7:00 p.m.
Present: David L. Walsh, Chairman; Peter Hamilton, Clerk; Theresa McNulty
George Samia, Town Administrator
Catherine Johnson, Senior Clerk
John Stuebing, Town Counsel
Joint Appointment
Housing Authority member Larry Davidson was present to ask the Board to appoint Sandra Luddy Ross to a three-year term on the Housing Authority. Mr. Davidson explained to the Board that an emergency appointment would be necessary at this time due to the unexpected resignation of three of it’s members.
Mr. Walsh stated that the Board could conduct business with it’s two remaining members and expressed concern with making an emergency appointment without researching the cause of the resignation of three of their members and without giving sufficient time for others to apply.
A lengthy discussion was held, with input from employee’s of the Housing Authority, Peter Spagone and Town Counsel.
M/Davidson, s/Dutcher, to appoint Sandra Luddy Ross to the Housing Authority for a five year term: no-Walsh, no-Hamilton; abstain – McNulty.
Appointment
John Fabrowski was present to give an update on the Carver Cotton Gin Dam. Mr. Fabrowski thanked a number of individuals for their help and support with regards to the rebuilding of the dam and informed the Board that his effort to restore is, at present, at a standstill.
Appointment
Robert Kerwin, Town Counsel, was present to inform the Board of the activities occurring at the Eastern States Steele site, and to ask the Board if they would consider commencing suit against the owners of the property.
Appointment
Al DiNapoli, of Tarlow, Breed, Hart & Rodgers was present to discuss the settlement agreement with Cumberland Farms regarding their appeal of the Board’s suspension of their Common Victualer Wine & Malt License. Attorney DiNapoli explained to the Board that Cumberland Farms agreed to resolve the matter with the Town, as well as surrender their Liquor License and not reapply for at least 5 years, and make a donation of $5,000.00 to East Bridgewater D.A.R.E.
Board of Selectmen -2- May 16, 2005
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, approve the settlement agreement with Cumberland Farms, presented to the Board by Town Counsel
Action Items
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, approve the minutes of the May 9, 2005 meeting.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, approve the awarding of the SERSG IFB contract for Paper to W. B. Mason for fiscal year 2006.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, approve the awarding of the SERSG IFB contract for supplies of water and sewerage treatment chemicals for fiscal year 2006 as printed.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, approve the closing of the warrant and the Articles for the Special Town Meeting on June 6, 2005.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, approve to accept the proposal by Wayne Feiden to act as the peer consultant for the Town.
Budget Presentations
Dr. Strojny, Superintendent of Schools, along with Scott Hastings, School Committee member and Ralph Dumas, School Business Administrator, were present to give the Board and the viewing public a presentation of their FY 06 budget.
Budget Presentations
James Hager, Superintendent of South Eastern Regional School and Eric Greene, East Bridgewater’s representative to South Eastern Regional School, were present to give the Board and the viewing public a presentation of their FY 06 budget.
Discussion
2003 Municipal Finance Law, which allows Town’s to move funding around, up to 3%, without going to a Town Meeting.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, Finance Committee concurs, a unanimous vote, to transfer the funds as printed, line 01-151-520-5304 Town Counsel G.G. Professional Services Legal in the amount of $125,122.37, 01-155-520-5341 Town Hall Computers Professional Services Computers in the amount of $8,500.00 and 01-192-520-5411 Town Office General Expense Heating Oil/Gas in the amount of $4,900.39.
Board of Selectmen -3- May 16, 2005
Open Forum
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, adjourn meeting at 10:45 p.m.
_____________________________Clerk
Board of Selectmen
The weekly meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday evening, May 31, 2005 at 7:35 p.m.
Present: David L. Walsh, Chairman; Peter A. Hamilton, Clerk; Theresa McNulty
George Samia, Town Administrator
Karen Grabau, Adm. Assistant
John Stuebing, Town Counsel
Appointment
Diana Landry met with the Board relative to her application for a Second Hand Dealers License and a Junk Dealers License at 734-736 Bedford Street.
Mrs. Landry explained that she is moving into the Elmwood Post Office and will be in the area recently vacated by another antique dealer. Board asked if there was any problem with restrictions of no display of articles on sidewalk and signage as allowed by zoning by-law. Mrs. Landry had no problem with these restrictions.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve a License to Sell Second Hand Articles and a Junk Dealers License, as follows:
Diana Landry dba Diana’s Now and Then Shoppe
734-736 Bedford Street.
Restrictions: Hours – Tuesday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
No display of articles on sidewalk
Signage as allowed by zoning by-laws
Appointment
Board met with Larry Davidson and Joseph Dutcher, E. Bridgewater Housing Authority members to discuss an emergency appointment to fill one of the vacancies on the Authority.
Mr. Davidson explained that the emergency still exists and that the Housing Authority members are recommending the appointment of Sandra Luddy-Ross to fill the vacancy until the next election.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, move to appoint Sandra Luddy-Ross, 98 Park Avenue to the East Bridgewater Housing Authority to fill vacancy of George Braddock until the next Town Election.
VOTE: Yes – Hamilton, McNulty, Walsh, Davidson, Dutcher; a unanimous vote in favor.
A discussion was held relative to the request from Mr. Davidson regarding interviews of other applicants to fill two vacancies; it was agreed that Selectmen and Housing Authority would hold separate interviews and will then set a joint meeting to vote on the appointments. It was announced that the deadline for letters of interest would be June 13.
M/Hamilton, s/ McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve the minutes of the May 23, 2005 meeting.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve the request of Elaine Dustin, Cam-Belle’s Country Inn for Pets, Inc. to increase the boarding charge for dogs from $15.00 per day to $18.50 per day at the town animal shelter.
A short discussion was held and it was agreed to approve increase and to have Mr. Samia contact Mrs. Dustin and set up a meeting to discuss the contract, etc. It was also noted that the Town By-Law should be updated for charge to dog owners to reflect new cost to town.
Board of Selectmen -2- May 31, 2005
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve the request of Frank Ray, Boy Scout Troop 29, for use of the Town Hall parking lot on Saturday, June 11, 2005 from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. for a Bottle and can drive.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve the renewal of the following Class II – Used Car dealers License for the period ending January 1, 2006:
LICENSE #13
Almedia Enterprises rear 42 No. Central Street
Restrictions: 1. Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.;
Saturday, 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.;
No Sunday operation.
2. No vehicles within 10 feet of the building
3. All vehicles to be placed inside fence at close of business daily
4. 10 car maximum
Mr. Hamilton announced that Dennis Ferro, Postmaster for East Bridgewater, attended the Memorial Day Ceremonies and presented a framed picture of a new stamp, which honors Veterans. Noted that the presentation was to honor the Veterans from East Bridgewater. Mr. Hamilton extended his appreciation and thanks to Mr. Ferro and noted that the picture will be placed in the hallway at Town Hall.
Appointment
Board met with Moderator Robert Looney, Town Clerk Marcia Weidenfeller and members of the Finance Committee, Robert Coulter and Jeff Luttazzi to go over the Articles for the Special and Annual Town Meetings. Also present, Peter Spagone, Sr. member of the DPW Committee.
Mr. Looney informed the Board that the High School Band and Chorus would perform one song at the beginning of the Annual after the presentation of the Flag.
Special Town Meeting:
Article 1 – P. Hamilton will present; needs quorum
Article 2 – D. Walsh will present; needs quorum and 9/10’s vote
Article 3 – Chief Cowan will present
Article 4 – Water Commissioners will present
Article 5 – Library Trustees will present
Article 6 – Board of Health will present; needs quorum and 2/3’s vote
Annual Town Meeting:
Article 1 – D. Walsh will present
Article 2 – D. Walsh will present
Article 3 – R. Coulter, Finance Committee will present
Article 4 – T. McNulty will present
Article 5 – T. McNulty will present
Article 6 – Assessors will present
Article 7 – P. Hamilton will present; will be passed-over as there is problem with sites
Article 8 – Cameron West will present; needs 2/3 vote; Planning Board will make
recommendation
Article 9 – J. Lopez may present; needs 2/3 vote; Planning Board will make
Recommendation
Article 10 – D. Walsh will present; Conservation Commission will have comments
Article 11 – Chief Cowan will present; Capital Needs Recommendation
Article 12 – Chief Cowan will present; Capital Needs Recommendation
Board of Selectmen -3- May 31, 2005
Article 13 – Jane Haines will present; will be an amendment to change amount and take
from Free Cash
Article 14 – Scott Hastings will present
Article 15 – Scott Hastings will present; School Committee will have a handout at
registration tables and a power-point presentation
Article 16 – Scott Hastings will present; Supt. Strojny will speak on article; needs 2/3
Vote
Article 17 – Scott Hastings will present: Capital Needs will make recommendation; needs
2/3 vote
Article 18 – Water Commissioners will present
Article 19 – Water Commissioners will present
Article 20 – John Haines will present; Capital Needs will make recommendation; needs
2/3 vote
Article 21 – Chief Cowan will present; Capital Needs will make recommendation; needs
2/3 vote
Article 22 – Library Trustees will present; Capital Needs will make recommendation
Article 23 – Library Trustees will present; Capital Needs will make recommendation
Article 24 – P. Hamilton will present; may need to pass-over
Article 25 – Water Commissioners will present
Article 26 – Water Commissioners will present; noted question regarding article, may
pass-over as this may need to be placed in Zoning By-Law
Article 27 – P. Spagone will present; DPW Committee will speak about article, Selectmen
will speak about DPW
Article 28 – P. Hamilton will present
Article 29 – P. Hamilton will present; amendment will be made on floor
Article 30 – T. McNulty will present
Article 31 – D. Walsh will present
Article 32 – to be presented by Petitioner
Discussion was held regarding Article 32. Mr. Walsh noted that he spoke to MBTA official and there is possible problem in that MBTA may not own portions of rail trail. Atty. Stuebing will review and contact MBTA to research ownership and will be prepared to speak on subject at Town Meeting.
Mr. Looney noted that Diane Phillips has contacted him and will make a short power-point presentation.
Mr. Coulter reminded Mr. Looney that the Finance Committee should be asked to make their recommendation regarding all money articles.
Mr. Walsh requested Mr. Samia to prepare a handout showing all legal fees by Department for presentation during Special Town Meeting.
Town Administrator Report
1. 1. Working on Town Meeting; budget sheet on articles prepared; motions prepared; bonding articles have been reviewed by bond counsel and approved
Correspondence
1. 1. Notice of Plymouth County Selectmen’s Assn. Meeting; Mr. Hamilton will attend.
Mrs. McNulty questioned if any information has been received from Jon Fabroski regarding the Carver Cotton Dam.
Board of Selectmen -4- May 31, 2005
A discussion was held regarding when town meeting would be held if it needs to go to another evening. It was agreed that we would go to Tuesday, June 7 and/or Monday, June 13. Mrs. Grabau will check on availability of Middle School for these dates and let Moderator and Selectmen know.
Mr. Coulter noted that in the past, if town meeting goes to a second night, any article already acted upon on the first evening could not be brought up on the second night. Mr. Looney stated that this was correct and would not be allowed.
Mr. Walsh stated that residents need to be aware that many articles on the Special warrant cannot be acted upon without a quorum. Urged residents to come to special town meeting.
Mr. Walsh requested that a meeting be set up with John Haines to discuss Rubbish and Recycling contracts. Noted that the present contract ends on June 30, 2006. Need time to set-up for RFP, etc.
Mrs. McNulty stated that she will be attending a meeting to discuss possible grants for Brownfields, etc. Also will be looking into storm water pollution grants.
Mr. Walsh noted that the Sewerage Committee is on target to present their report. Mr. Hamilton stated that he has invited the Committee to come to the June 20 Selectmen’s meeting to give an update. Noted that test borings are completed; waiting for analysis. Public Hearing will be scheduled for September.
Mrs. McNulty invited all to attend school tours on Saturday, June 4; Central School 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.; Middle School 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.; High School 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Also noted that Graduation is Sunday, June 5.
Reminders:
Recycling Center open Saturday of Recycling week.
Antiques on the Common – Saturday, June 4
Arts Festival – June 9-12 on Common
m./Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to adjourn meeting at 8:45 p.m.
_____________________________Clerk
Board of Selectmen
The weekly meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday evening, May 23, 2005 at 7:35 p.m.
Present: David L. Walsh, Chairman; Peter A. Hamilton, Clerk; Theresa McNulty
George Samia, Town Administrator
Karen Grabau, Adm. Assistant
John Stuebing, Town Counsel
Appointment
Members of the Sachem Rock Committee and the Friends of Sachem Rock met with the Board to discuss role each group has in the restoration of Sachem Rock Farm.
Present were:
Sachem Rock Committee Friends of Sachem Rock
Mary Ahern Maria Buckley
Sandra Ockers Karen
MaryJo Martin Debbie Clish
Marjorie Winsor Donna Cullinan
Darlene Dupras
Mrs. Ahern explained that the Committee has someone coming to the property to do a structural assessment of the house, barn and outer buildings. Once the assessment is completed, they would like to begin renovations. Noted that the barn dates to 1809 and the house to 1922. The Historical Commission has nominated the property for inclusion on the National Register and as soon as additional paperwork is completed, the whole property will be registered. Noted that the registration to the National Register will allow for application for grants. Once assessment is completed, the committee would like to bring the information to town meeting for a vote on renovations.
Mrs. Ahern noted that the Committee is planning to hold tours of the property sometime in June to acquaint residents with the property.
Mrs. Ockers informed the Board that a portion of the property has been declared a vernal pond by the Department of Wildlife.
Mrs. Buckley stated that she was confused, as a usage plan had been accepted previously. Questioned if there is a mission statement for the Committee, which includes the duties of the Sachem Rock Committee. Stated that the plan was submitted to the Board of Selectmen and approved on June 7, 2004.
Mr. Walsh stated that the Town appointed committee should bring all information and requests to Board of Selectmen for final approval. All uses for the property are to be approved first by the Committee and then by the Board.
Mrs. Ahern stated that the committee reviews all requests for usage at the property and once they approve, they forward to the Board of Selectmen for final approval.
Further Discussion was held relative to uses for property, usage plan, mission statement for Sachem Rock Committee, need to preserve property, fundraising, etc.
Mr. Walsh suggested that the Board of Selectmen have a liaison to attend all meeting of the committee. So that the Board will be kept informed.
Board agreed that they would put together in writing clarification of the mission statement and usage plan for the Sachem Rock Committee.
Board of Selectmen -2- May 23, 2005
Appointment
Board met with the following to go over the warrant for the Annual Town Meeting:
Finance Committee members: Robert Coulter, Sally Feeney, Albert Mondeau, Jeff
Luttazzi, Lynn Lundberg, John Margie
DPW Committee members: Peter Spagone, Sr., Fire Chief Ryon Pratt, Brian Healey,
Scott McCann, Michael Payton, Robert Kenn
Town Accountant, Dorothy Richardson
Interim Town Treasurer/Collector, Diane Lawless
Moderator, Robert Looney
Town Clerk’s Office, Paula Keefe
Board went over articles with information relative to each articles being given including where funding would come from. It was noted that Article 7, would be amended on the floor, as the property noted is no longer viable. It was agreed to add the word “seven” to Article 16 relative to the number of portable classrooms being sought.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve the articles as printed with amendments to Articles 7 and 16, for inclusion on the Annual Town Meeting Warrant and to close the Warrant.
Correspondence
Board went over various letters and flyers received.
Mrs. McNulty noted that she would attend the presentation by HUB Technical Services on Wednesday.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve the minutes of the May 16, 2005 meeting.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve awarding the contract for SERSG Office Supplies to New England Office Supply of Braintree for a two-year period commencing July 1, 2005.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve the renewal of the following Licenses to Sell Second Hand Articles for the period of May 1, 2005 to April 30, 2006, with copies of leases to be submitter:
Marie A. Davis dba Antiques at Forge Pond
34 No. Bedford Street
Restrictions: No outside display of articles
Must provide off-street parking
Hours: Daily – 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Andrew Driscoll dba Baron’s Collectibles
355 Bedford Street
Hours: Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve the request of Charles A. Muise of E.B. Youth Basketball Assoc. for use of the John L. Silva Athletic Complex on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon from Jun 18, 2005 through July 30, 2005.
Board of Selectmen -3- May 23, 2005
Reminders
Memorial Day Ceremonies on Common - May 30 followed by Chicken Barbeque at Commercial Club
Town Hall closed May 30
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, move to close Open Session and go into Executive Session for the purpose of hearing a Step II grievance and will not be returning to Open Session.
VOTE: Yes – Hamilton, McNulty, Walsh; a unanimous vote in favor.
Meeting adjourned at 10:00 p.m.
_____________________________Clerk
Board of Selectmen
The weekly meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday evening, May 9, 2005 at 7:35 p.m.
Present: David L. Walsh, Chairman; Peter A. Hamilton, Clerk; Theresa McNulty
George Samia, Town Administrator
Karen Grabau, Adm. Assistant
Appointment
Board met with Lorrie Parker relative to her application for a License to Sell Second Hand Articles.
Mrs. Parker noted that her business would be called Mrs. Swift & Moore Antiques and Collectibles and will be located at 12 West Union Street. Hours of operation will be 7 days, 9:00 a.m. 9:00 p.m.
Board requested that outside display be restricted to limited articles against building. Mrs. Parker had no problem with this restriction.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve a License to Sell Second Hand Articles to Lorrie Parker dba Mrs. Swift & Moore Antiques and Collectibles, 12 West Union Street, with restriction of limited articles for outside display against building and signage as regulated by Town’s By-Laws.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve the minutes of the May 2, 2005 minutes.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve the request of Louis J. Almond, Jr. of the VFW for permission to solicit donations for their annual “Buddy Poppy” drive on May 13, 14 and 15, 2005.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve the following April License renewal for the period of May 1, 2005 to April 30, 2006:
Susan M. Hartman dba Hartman House Antiques
334 Bedford Street E. Bridgewater
RESTRICTIONS:
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday & Monday by chance or appointment
Charles S. Bertocci, Charlene D. Bertocci and Gary Bertocci
1461 Central Street East Bridgewater
RESTRICTIONS: Conditions as approved by Board of Appeals 10/22/81
No outside display of articles
Granted upon the condition that adequate off-street parking
be maintained at all times by the petitioner.
Hours: Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Linda W. Triconi dba Ms. Bee-Haven
10 West Union Street, East Bridgewater
Hours: 7 days; 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Board of Selectmen -2- May 9, 2005
LICENSE FOR BOWLING LANES
Frederick W. Thompson, Jr. dba Viking Recreational Center, Inc.
607 Bedford Street East Bridgewater
RESTRICTIONS: Hours: 7 days 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
16 Bowling Lanes
LICENSE FOR POOL TABLE
Frederick W. Thompson dba Viking Recreational Center, Inc.
607 Bedford Street East Bridgewater
RESTRICTIONS: Hours: 7 days 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. 3 Pool Tables
Town Administrator Report
1. 1. Town Meeting warrants – Budget draft 3 finished; readying motions and list of articles with information on where funding will come from.
2. 2. Grant – MDHC Peer to Peer grant; $1,000 grant approved; contract with Wayne Feiden received.
Staff Report
1. 1. Town Report – few departments/committees have not submitted their report; waiting for financial reports; proof-reading reports at this time. Report to go to printer by end of week. Will be ready prior to Town Meeting.
Mr. Hamilton extend a thank you to the following:
John Haines, Highway Surveyor for pulling together the Hazardous Waste day this past
Saturday morning. John was there with members of the Highway Department, Tony Andrade, Rob Kenn and Nancy Feeney as well as Officer Paul O’Brien checking residency and the chemical waste vendor. They all did an outstanding job considering the inclement weather on Saturday.
Aileen Marino and Nancy Smith from the Central School PTA for coordinating the annual central School PTO Spring Clean Up Day this past Thursday. Also, the board would like to thank Dave Foley from Mark-A-Lot company, who donated the painting of the parking lines, crosswalks, and playground games at the Central School as part of Clean Up Day.
Noted that last Thursday evening, a public hearing was held relative to the establishment
of a DPW in the town of East Bridgewater. The Board would like to thank Peter Spagone,
Chief Pratt, John Clifford, Brian Healy, Robbie Kenn and Scott McCann for their work in
writing the article for Town Meeting. The article is currently with Town counsel for review.
Once it is ready, it will be presented to the town, ahead of town Meeting. This is the next
change in Town government that was recommended by the Government review Study
Committee and voted for by the Citizens 2 to 1.
Correspondence
1. 1. Invitation from Patriotic Activities Committee for Memorial Day exercises at the Town Common on Monday, May 30. Mr. Walsh noted that he would be out of Town. Mr. Hamilton will attend, but will be unable to attend the chicken barbeque at the Commercial Club.
2. 2. Viking Café – High School Front Lobby; open 6:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.
Sponsored EBHS Marketing Class.
Board of Selectmen -3- May 8, 2005
3. 3. Letter from Kingston Selectmen relative to a non-binding question on their annual town election ballot regarding 40B housing. Board requested that a copy of letter be forwarded to Planning Board Vice Chairman, Steven Belcher.
4. 4. Letter from Director of Assessing, Cheryl Pooler relative to town owned land off Central Street. Will forward to habitat for Humanity as soon as easement question is clarified.
Mr. Walsh requested that Joseph Cooke, Casa Loma Pub & Club be notified to meet with the Board regarding issues, which he was to address by spring. Meeting to be set for after Town Meeting.
Board Discussion
Health Insurance Coverage for Elected Officials
Mr. Samia explained that there are only a few officials that may be on town’s insurance.
Mr. Hamilton noted that an elected official who works 20 or more hours, would be eligible for health insurance; Board is looking at those officials who are less than 20 hours. Noted that in the future, if financial picture is better, Board could look at reinstating benefit.
Mrs. McNulty stated that there a potential cost savings for the Town and this seems to be a fiscally responsible thing to do. Noted that this action is in line with other municipalities.
Mr. Walsh suggested that this would take effect July 1.
Board discussed time frame for instituting this action; it was agreed that any town official on town’s insurance would remain until the end of their term and would come off the town’s insurance whether or not they ran for re-election.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to approve removing the benefit to elected town officials of town health insurance with the exception that any town official receiving this benefit will remain on the town’s health insurance until the end of their current term of office.
John Haines reported to the Board on the status of the Recycling and Solid Waste Disposal for the Town of East Bridgewater. Explained that the residents are not recycling and that our total recycling is at 20%, which is down from last year’s percentage. Noted that our contract with BFI calls for a discount for every ton of recycling, which comes off the bill for waste disposal.
Mr. Haines also noted, that the Town needs to begin to look at how we will dispose of waste and recycling, as the current contract will end on July 1, 2006. Explained several options, which he is looking at.
Mr. Walsh requested Mr. Haines to report back to the Board with three options after the town meeting; felt that the town needs to have an RFP ready by fall so that contracts can be in place prior to next July.
Budget Presentations
The following Department Heads made Budget presentations to the Board and Finance Committee explaining any impacts the cuts will have on department.
Tree/Highway – John Haines
Water – Robert Reardon, David Coots, Melissa Schrader
Historical – Mary Ahern, Margaret Alexander, Mary Ann Roan
Arts Council – Mary Coelho, Jacqueline Pfeifer
Board of Selectmen -4- May 9, 2005
Park Commissioners – Robert DeChristopher, Daniel Kelly
Public Library – Jane Finley
A discussion was held with the Finance Committee regarding preparations to move funds within budgets to offset some of the shortfalls. Mr. Walsh noted that the board would be voting these at next weeks meeting. Mr. Samia noted that he is preparing the finalized list; also noted that this is the last year that this will be allowed without a town meeting vote.
Mr. Hamilton thanked the Finance Committee for their work with the various Boards and Committees on the budget process.
Mr. Walsh noted that they had a list of upcoming Board/Committee appointments that will be up for renewal or appointment. Requested that the list be broken down into two lists one by position and by committee appointment.
Open Forum
Jeremiah Long, 413 Summer Street, asked the Board’s assistance regarding water problems at his house. Showed a bottle of tap water and the sediment in the bottle. Board explained that the Water Commissioners run the Water Department as an elected Board. Referred Mr. Long to the Commissioners. Mr. Long stated that the problem was ongoing; also showed a video of the water coming out of a water tap at his house. Mr. Long stated that he has a called the Water Department and a meeting have been set for next week.
M/Hamilton, s/McNulty, a unanimous vote, move to adjourn meeting at 9:35 p.m.
__________________________Clerk
Board of Selectmen
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