The weekly meeting of the Board of Selectmen was held on Tuesday evening, November 20, 2007 at 7:35 p.m.
Present: Theresa McNulty, Chairman; David L. Walsh, Clerk; Peter A. Hamilton
George Samia, Town Administrator
Karen Grabau, Adm. Assistant
M/Walsh, s/Hamilton, a unanimous vote, move to approve the minutes of the November 5, 2007 meeting.
M/Walsh, s/Hamilton, a unanimous vote, move to approve the minutes of the November 13, 2007 minutes.
M/Walsh, s/Hamilton, a unanimous vote, move to approve the appointment of Paula Donnelly as a member of the Christmas Parade Ad Hoc Committee.
TOWN ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
Mr. Samia gave an explanation of Free Cash as part of his ongoing budget process components explanations.
Mr. Samia also explained the recently announced State budget deficit and housing market downturn and possible effects on town’s budget process.
Mr. Walsh noted that the property tax base was not affected by the housing market downturn; effect on town’s budget if new growth is down.
REMINDERS
Town Hall closes at noon, Nov. 21; closed Nov. 22 & 23
Casino Informational Meeting by Casino Facts Committee, Nov. 30, 7 p.m.
DEPARTMENT UPDATE
John Haines, DPW Director met with the Board and updated them on the work of his department during the last few months.
Highway and Grounds Division: update on Storm Water Management project; development of GIS with mapping of all drainage systems in town; new Paper Management System will inventory all public ways.
Water Division: replacement of 200 meters in pits to radio read meters; water filtration project – mains along Washington & Crescent replaced, work on driveways next week; filtration plant on site meetings held, work to begin next week. Water restrictions still in effect.
Solid Waste Division: 2nd year using bag sales to pay part of cost; waste tonnage down, recycling up; recycling percentages – 2006/20.9 %; 2007/31.5%.
Discussed sales of stickers and bags; curbside trash contract final year begins July 1, 2008; single stream disposal; possible transfer station; types of containers for recycling; Bridge Street Center items allowed.
Board thanked Mr. Haines for his presentation.
It was noted that Peter Spagone, Veterans’ Agent was not present, will reschedule him for a later date.
Board of Selectmen -2- November 20, 2007
Board reminded residents of Christmas on the Common events: Common Lighting – November 29, 6 p.m.; Christmas on Common events, December 1 9 1.m. – 4 p.m.; Christmas Parade – December 1, 11 a.m. step-off.
Mr. Hamilton noted that Nathan Gilbert would be presented Eagle Scout award on Sunday. Extended congratulations to Nathan; will attend ceremony and present citation from Selectmen.
OPEN FORUM
No one was present
M/Walsh, s/Hamilton, move to close Open Session and go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing contract negotiation issues and personnel issues and will not be returning to Open Session.
VOTE: Yes – McNulty, Walsh, Hamilton; a unanimous vote in favor.
Meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
______________________________Clerk
Board of Selectmen
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