The weekly meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Monday evening, February 5, 2007 at 7:30 p.m.
Present: Peter A. Hamilton, Chairman; Theresa McNulty, Clerk; David L. Walsh
George Samia, Town Administrator
Karen Grabau, Adm. Assistant
APPOINTMENT
John Haines, DPW Director discussed with the Board several issues relative to the Water Department division of the DPW. Explained that the last few years, Water Commissioners drew funds from their System Development and Surplus Revenue Funds to cover budget deficit. Noted that rates should have been increased to cover daily expenses of running department.
Mr. Haines explained the results of study; rates in area towns were compared; study will be finalized shortly and will be submitted to the Board to review. Will have completed study before Annual Town Meeting.
Mr. Walsh stated that the Board will decide how to cover deficit of $80,000 for this year, once we are further into the budget process; noted that the taxpayers need to be protected.
A discussion was held regarding the System Development Fund, where funds come from, new meter installation, etc.
Mr. Haines explained the water treatment plant project; noted that 4 wells will combined for treatment at Crescent Street and second station will be at East Street; treatment plants will cost approximately 7 million and then the replacement of 32,000 feet of cast iron water mains will cost approximately 7.2 million. Looking to have firm cost before Town Meeting. Noted that cost of new mains is $160 per foot; will also replace roads once mains are replaced. Explained SAF loan, 14.2 million, low rate loan not a grant as reported in newspaper.
Mr. Walsh noted that the water rate increase would be between $200 and $400 per household; average water rate will be approximately $300.
Discussion was held on the Capital Stabilization Fund, recommended uses for funds and how funds would be allocated.
It was noted that on February 13, Mr. Haines would present his projects information from 6-7 p.m. will be televised and public is invited to attend and asked questions. At 7:00 p.m. the Board of Selectmen’s meeting will begin and at 7:30 p.m. the finance committee, Capital Improvement Committee, Department Heads will discuss the Capital Stabilization Fund and the articles for the February 26 meeting; it was noted that the public is invited to attend and asked questions.
ACTION
M/McNulty, s/Walsh, a unanimous vote, move to approve the minutes of the January 30, 2007 meeting.
M/McNulty, s/Walsh, a unanimous vote, move to approve the appointment of Joshua Morton as a Constable (Pays Own Bond) for the period of February 5, 2007 to June 30, 2010.
M/McNulty, s/Walsh, move to close the warrant and approve the articles for the warrant as written.
M/Walsh, s/McNulty amend motion and add approve articles pending approval and review by Town Counsel of verbiage.
VOTE: on amendment – Yes – Walsh, McNulty, Hamilton; a unanimous vote in favor.
Vote: on motion as amended – Yes – Walsh, McNulty, Hamilton; a unanimous vote in favor.
Board of Selectmen -2- February 5, 2007
TOWN ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
State Budget – Met with Rep. Allen McCarthy; not looking good for additional funding
from State. Noted that Rep. McCarthy has stated that he will be working closely with the Town.
REMINDERS
Sen. Joyce Office Hours – Wednesday, February 7, 11-12 p.m.
How Our Community is Preparing – Tuesday, February 6, 7 p.m. Middle School
Legal and Financial Issues & Answers for Families Dealing with Alzheimer’s – Tuesday,
February 13, 4 – 5:30 p.m. at Riddell Road Community Building
Tri-School/PTO Meeting – February 12, 4:30 p.m. EBHS Library
Mr. Hamilton reported on his attendance at the Plymouth County Selectmen’s Meeting; speaker on energy, many communities looking into wind power; good networking group.
OPEN FORUM
No one was present
M/McNulty, s/Walsh, a unanimous vote, move to close meeting at 8:25 p.m.
_____________________________Clerk
Board of Selectmen
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