Town of Greenfield
Budget Hearing – RSA 32:5 I
(“Mini town meeting”)
Tuesday – February 12, 2008 – 6:30 pm
Present: Selectmen - Chairman, Aaron Kullgren; Selectwoman, Karen Day; Selectman, Jarvis Adams
Administrative Assistant, Debra Davidson taking minutes
Others present: Several department heads and residents were present, all signed in on a sign-in sheet.
Administrative Assistant noted the budget hearing was noticed in the Monadnock Ledger -Transcript, on the website, at the post office, and at the Town Office.
Chairman Kullgren called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm
Highway:
Road Agent, Duffy Fox requested that he present his budget first due to inclement weather, which is forthcoming.
Duffy opened by stating 2007 was an unusual year, he kept the 2008 proposed budget as similar to last years budget as possible. He indicated he is not sure what 2008 is bringing, he has already hauled sand 3 times, at Town Meeting an adjustment may be necessary for the sand/salt line item.
Duffy noted that he has three payments being removed in the 2008 budget; they were the Grader, Trackless and the ’05 Dump Truck.
Added to the budget from last year is the Front End Loader.
Resident, George Rainier asked why with the increased price of fuel and the fact the highway overspent fuel costs in 2007, the amount isn’t increased for 2008.
Fox replied that his price has remained the same for 8 months. The April storms really hit the budget hard; he doesn’t see a need to increase the line item.
Rainier asked about the heating fuel, he stated it doesn’t seem to be an adequate amount of funding.
Fox stated this is an agreement with Allen & Mathewson, he rarely has the ability to negotiate the price, and it is currently being sold to the Town at cost plus .20 cents on the day of delivery.
Catherine Shaw explained the FEMA income offsets many of the line items that went over in 2007; this is what allowed Duffy to stay within his budget.
Chairman Kullgren noted that the damage as a result of the storm in April is 85% complete.
Resident, Myron Steere asked about Dodge Road and what is going to be done with the road.
Selectman Adams discussed this matter, explaining that the current wetlands permitting is good for 5 years. The informational meeting proved to have a strong consensus to leave the road as is at this time. It doesn’t service too many families, with the exception of the 5 families that live on the road. Adams went on to explain that with the road being closed the Highway Department has difficulties with plowing. The Fire Department & Rescue also have concerns. From the center of town there is an equal distance to gain access to any of the homes, however if Francestown or Lyndeborough need to respond it will be a little longer. Feedback from the hearing allowed for residents to express they were satisfied with keeping the road closed.
George Rainier asked if there was any consideration in increasing road reconstruction to where it was previous to 2007?
Duffy responded by saying “not at this time”, he went on to explain that there is a possible situation developing on the east side of town, this may allow for a potential gravel donation. If this takes place it may help with work needed to be completed on of Mountain Road. Fox stated he has just barely received paving quotes for 2008.
George Rainier asked if East Road going to be top coated in 2008.
Fox replied by saying he would like to get it top coated, but he has to speak with the board before he proceeds.
Chairman Kullgren spoke on behalf of Board, stating that the Board is supportive of Duffy utilizing the 15% of the FEMA and finishing up what he needs to do in order to get the roads up to speed.
Fox discussed the mitigation plan with SWRP being a FEMA requirement for future disasters. There is quite a bit of drainage work in repetitive spots that needs addressing, he stated he will not be able to complete the five year plan, he wants to complete as much drainage as possible in the spring, before any rehab starts. The weather doesn’t seem to be cooperating, which makes it difficult to get the projects complete that Fox wants to complete.
Resident, Linda Dodge had a question about the town truck having the blade down on Sawmill Road, she asked what is the reasoning behind this.
Fox replied that it is actually easier on the equipment to push the snow, rather than keep the blade up and have it bounce.
Resident, Al Burtt asked about health insurance increases within the highway budget.
Catherine Shaw explained when Duffy hired a new employee, the insurance went from a single person plan to a family plan and there is also an estimated 6% increase in costs.
Al Burtt asked the Board if they are continually reviewing insurance and looking to get the best bang for the best buck.
Kullgren said Deb & Catherine spend a good deal of their time working with the Local Government Center and ConVal, being part of a large cooperative group does give the “best bang for the buck”.
Maryanne Grant had hypothetical question regarding weather patterns, and wanted to know if there is any plan as to what will happen to highway budget or are there any planned repairs if disaster happens again or are we just praying?
Fox responded to her question and said we can only plan on a normal year, abnormal years seem to be in abundance in the recent past.
Selectman Adams stated that FEMA is supportive of fixing problems to alleviate repeat problems. Adams continued to discuss the options that are available for fixing Dodge Road for example, and if the road is not repaired, as FEMA would recommend, they won’t support the funding for future problems.
Maryanne asked if we have these problems, the highway dept., needs to work on them and other projects should get put aside. She also asked if things are ever contracted, allowing the Highway Department to simply keep up with maintenance.
Adams replied that the Board has talked about that. They have discussed bonding to get the roads brought up to a maintenance status. However, at this time the town in not able to obtain a bond.
Resident, Arlene Guinn discussed that she lives on Gould Hill, her husband is a civil engineer and works for the State of NH. While driving through town, they notice that there are concerns with road matters that they don’t understand; she went on to explain a few of these concerns. Mrs. Guinn also asked why do the highway crew fill potholes with sand; she wants to understand the perspective as to why are holes filled with sand that will only wash away.
Duffy answered her question by saying, the hole is filled with stones and only topped with sand, and the pothole she is discussing was filled with cold patch but didn’t hold due to frost heaves. The major part of the hole is filled with rock; it is a 3-foot deep hole. All potholes are filled with sand in the winter months.
Resident, Conrad Dumas commented that he doesn’t want to re-plow old ground, but did want to know what is the $70,000.00 in the budget scheduled for, is it for road reconstruction, if so what road.
Duffy said he wants to get to as much drainage on Mountain Road completed in 2008 as possible, so he is hoping to earmark those funds for Mountain Road.
Resident, Gwynn Mitchell requested a budget handout.
No further comments on the Highway budget, the Selectmen moved on to article #2.
WA#2 – Solar Energy RSA 72:61-72:
Selectman Kullgren explained this was a petitioned article; there was no one here to speak to the petition.
Resident, Gwynn Mitchell asked what impact will this have on the tax base and further what is the energy system.
Resident, Andrew Heck commented if this is going to be a system that will bring up the value of the houses when they sell, why should they receive the exemption. Mr. Heck feels should pay taxes on these systems; the rest of the residents should not have to pay the difference.
Brief discussions followed.
WA #3 – Discontinue Elected Treasurer:
Kullgren explained if this vote passes it would allow this position to change its status and would take effect in 2009.
Gwynn Mitchell asked would changing this from an elected position make the Treasurer a town employee if it passes.
Kullgren stated that is correct.
WA# 4 – Town Operating Budget :
Kullgren recommended the audience look at the comparative budget, there are many departments this line item encompasses.
Dario Carrara asked how does this proposed budget compare with last years budget.
Catherine Shaw replied last year it was 643,199, it is down $14,000.
Resident, Conrad Dumas asked the board to reconsider the welfare budget, he further commented that $15,500 is playing it very close.
Linda Dodge asked if Conrad was expecting it to go up or down.
Conrad indicated that it is a reduced figure and $20,000 seems to be what is needed, you just don’t know what might happen.
Myron Steere asked what is Executive, specifically what is the retirement money for– and is the Town involved in the State retirement system. He stated he has concerns that this account will be looking at a figure double in the future.
Maryanne Grant asked what general government buildings covers.
Kullgren responded with the breakout of what makes that figure.
Al Burtt commented that we spent $4,243.00 heating costs in 2007 for the Town Offices; he thinks the heating costs should be increased.
Kullgren responded that there is an annual contract that is cost plus .20 cents. We have utilized the software programs that the current vendor has, and they coupled with our discussions felt this was a good number.
Dario Carrara asked if we were burning less oil or getting a better price.
Kullgren reported we were working with our vendor.
Linda Dodge asked about Cemeteries and why the increase in Arborists if nothing was spent in 2007.
Kullgren stated that the Arborist was not used in 2007; it is anticipated to have some trees removed that are in need of removal. The trees will be removed in 2008.
Selectman Adams explained the need for upgrading the water at Greenvale Cemetery. Adams went on to explain the pump down near the lake needs to have work done to it; there are currently only a handful of spickets that are actually working. They will also be repaired in 2008.
Resident, James Grant asked about the town using pellets as an option for heating the town buildings.
Selectwoman Day explained there was a newly formed committee researching the best energy options for the town.
Selectman Adams discussed a proposal for an installation of a new boiler and changing the delivery system throughout the entire Town Office, replacing the radiators with baseboard etc. Chris Cuddemi has provided a price of $24,000 to change to hot water boiler, get rid of steam radiators, electric hot water and more. Mr. Cuddemi has proposed installing an instantaneous water system, also in the quote installation of a 350-gallon oil tank. Mr. Cuddemi has gone before the Energy Committee and spoken with them, they are all aware of the need for new windows, the TEC basically stated they didn’t want to rush into anything. Adams stated he himself could go either way, however they would like to know what the voters would like to have done. The Selectmen would get more prices if this goes on the
warrant.
Al Burtt commented that if the town is going out to bid, we should get geothermal bids as well.
Dario Carrara stated he would like Jarvis’ professional opinion and what is the anticipated fuel savings if a new system was installed.
Adams stated Cuddemi has stated that he could potentially save up to $7500.00 in fuel, of course that savings might include new windows. Adams feels a tradesman, who resides in the town, who wants to give back to the town, is submitting this quote. Adams further commented, he believes it is a good quote.
Resident, Mike Kavenagh asked if there has been any thought about having someone who is a professional do an energy audit on the Town Office building?
Adams replied that he could confidently say if we do this, we will see a savings next year. We haven’t done an energy audit but we do have two quotes for window restoration.
Resident, Myron Steere responded by saying that if a warrant article for a Capital Reserve Fund were set up, allowing the Board to spend the funds as necessary throughout the year, he feels this would be a good option.
Gwynn Mitchell asked if the price of $24,000.00 includes the removal of the current underground oil tank.
Adams stated, no it does not.
Dario Carrara stated he supports a CRF; and also a review of the office building, which would separate the heating savings vs. heating loss. Carrara stated he would rather see the problem resolved, than just looked at.
Selectwoman Day stated that the TEC in the process of doing an energy audit of the town office and will look at all options for heating the building.
Catherine Shaw intercepted to say that the energy committee did have 3 independent contractors go through the building and are working on an energy audit.
Carrara asked Day when would the TEC give the information that can be used to the public.
Day responded by saying they are meeting regularly, and will keep the town informed.
Carrara asked that a report be available either at Town Meeting or be printed in the Spirit.
Kullgren asked for general consensus as to should they do a warrant this as a CRF or just put the figure into the budget.
Al Burt replied that he supports a CRF.
Mr. Heck asked to go back to the heating for a minute. He asked if we appropriate the funds into a CRF would we lose the funding if we don’t do the heating in 2008.
Kullgren stated that we do not lose the funding once the account is set up.
George Rainier asked about custodial services and why the decrease.
Deb explained the Board is hoping to save some funds by having an employee of the town pick up some of the work.
WA #5 – Fire Truck:
$352,000 appropriation, 95% federal grant, $17,600 from taxation.
Al Burtt stated that if we don’t warn it properly, we would lose the funds.
Kullgren discussed the procedure for encumbering of funds, provided the Fire Departmen had entered into a contract, that would keep us from losing any funding authorized in 2008.
Discussion followed on the age of the equipment to be replaced.
WA #6 – CRF for a Fire Truck:
$40,000.00 – Dario Carrara spoke to this item. He commented that the Planning Board has been reviewing the Capital Improvements Plan, they have gathered input from all departments on potential expenditures – basically they focused on 10 years out, they then revamped the CIP and prioritized expenditures. The Fire Truck to be replaced is 31 or 32 years old and is beginning to show signs of degrade. The Town will need to replace the truck, the Planning Board discussed how to pay for the truck, bonding was discussed, but we are unable to bond at this time. This is where the CRF came to be an option. The intent was/is not to raise taxes, it was an effort to keep a flat rate. The Planning Board would like to see the town move in the direction of establishing a CRF for the Highway and Fire
Departments.
Myron Steere discussed the Budget Committee has discussed CRF, and feel they are appropriate. He would like to see the CRF set up to be $20,000.00 rather than $40,000.00 to get started.
Mr. Heck asked why don’t we do the $40,000.00 CRF and use those funds even if the grant is awarded to Greenfield, if it is not awarded then we have saved $40,000.00.
Linda Dodge said she understands the concept, but that then article #6 would need to be placed before WA #5.
Resident, Katherine Heck asked if there is a way to have the warrant written so that we can have our cake and eat it too.
Myron Steere reiterated what Mr. Heck stated, further commenting that we could just switch the articles.
Catherine Shaw replied that the CRF was a petitioned article and must be worded as it was presented. But it can be amended at Town Meeting.
Resident, Bruce Dodge commented that his concern is that the Board was working towards keeping the tax rate flat and establishing CRF that is not going to be accomplished.
Gwynn Mitchell asked if Article #5 could be worded to say the $17,600.00 may be taken from the CRF account.
Katherine Heck discussed that we need to show good faith effort to the banks so to regain our bonding status, establishing one or two CRF would do just that.
Selectman Adams wanted to get back to Mr. Carrara discussing the flexibility of the petitioners, Adams went on to ask how about reducing the CRF to a $20,000.00 fund rather than a $40,000.00.
Discussion continued on CRF accounts and the CIP, funding issues for the future etc.
Catherine Shaw asked if the $17,600 is utilized, what is the $40,000.00 going to go towards.
Carrara stated that the tanker truck is scheduled to be replaced in 10 years.
Myron Steere commented that is why we start small.
Catherine Shaw stated that if there is a grant available now, maybe there will be one available later as well, maybe we don’t need the CRF at all.
Kullgren reviewed the CIP and when the trucks will need to be replaced.
Catherine Shaw asked is the CRF going to be putting money aside every year.
Myron Steere stated that is the purpose of a CRF.
Mr. Heck asked if we set up a Fire Truck CRF, if there are excess funds could we change the use at the town meeting.
Selectwoman Day stated she wanted to make the point that when funds go into CRF, everyone needs to remember that those dollars shrink. $20,000 today isn’t the same $20,000 in years to come.
Kullgren commented to Carrara that the Town Department Heads have all worked hard to reduce their budgets and need to be recognized for this.
Article #7 – Fire Department :
George Rainier asked why there were no reimbursements; George also asked about the gated-Y and he noticed that line has been reduced. Kullgren responded to Rainier’s question by stating that Chief Plourde reduced the equipment line item to reflect the purchase of only one gated-Y.
Maryanne Grant asked about custodial services, and wanted to know if the library is the only department that doesn’t have professional services, and further asked why is this service so expensive.
Jarvis discussed that the board is looking into this, specifics as to what is done, how things are done, how many hours it takes etc., the board is looking for other ways to get these matters complete.
Linda Dodge wanted to say she agrees there must be a cheaper way to take care of custodial services. However, the fire station is very clean, the floors are always buffed; she doesn’t think it is right to have the volunteers clean the fire station.
Gwynn Mitchell wanted to know why Fire Department is spending so much on telephone compared to other departments.
Conrad Dumas stated that mutual aid and emergency services are costly.
Catherine Shaw responded to Gwynn Mitchell’s question saying that each fire alarm needs a separate phone line, it can’t be the same line as the incoming line used for mutual aid. Pagers are not included in that figure, however the fire station does have DSL, and that is included in the phone cost.
Linda Dodge asked why did Jim Plourde need a cell phone.
Andrew Heck answered her question by saying that emergency personnel need to have a cell phone or a means to contact outside agencies. He further stated that is a federal law, not a local law.
Resident, Connie Austin brought attention that the telephone for the police is $3,000, it seems reasonable for emergency service.
Catherine Shaw stated that the police are a little different, they have multiple lines and their pagers are included in their phone costs.
Article #9 – Library:
Library Trustee, Mike Kavenagh wanted to discuss a few items before questions about the library budget took place. Mike started by discussing the library has had an approximate 30% increase in usage since 2005; computer usage is nearly 100%; to provide more value, the Trustees chose to remove a phone line, therefore they are only paying for two lines rather than three. In December 2007 they installed wireless DSL. They recently installed 7-day thermostats on the furnaces. Kavenagh further discussed if anyone is reviewing the budget they most likely have noticed a new line item for roof repairs, the Library is having a problem with the slate roof and Trustees are working on getting 3 quotes. They are not looking to get the entire roof done at once; they would like to do it over a few years, therefore the
$5,000.00 increase in roof repair. Also they are looking at replacing the hot water tank with an instant hot water tank. And looking at insulating the ductwork in the basement. In 2009 they will be asking for replacement windows.
Maryanne wanted to make comment that for three or four years the extra $5,000.00 will be needed. But she further stated the library budget has been flat, and she would like to invite everyone to attend the dedication on Sunday from 2-4.
Myron Steere asked if the water stopped after he unplugged the hole in the basement.
Kavenagh stated that Mr. Steere had done some work at the library replacing an asphalt apron last spring, he hopes to grade building so the water run-off will go away from the building.
Gwynn Mitchell wanted to know what the wages are in the library budget.
Kavenagh answered her question by saying that is wages for 3 employees.
Maryanne Grant noted that postage & general supplies are up slightly, cataloging is complete, but they need to purchase barcodes etc. to finish the job.
Art. #10 – Parks & Recreation:
Molly Anfuso said she had nothing to report; her budget is down from 2007.
Conrad Dumas asked if the Supervisor salary would be going up by 3%
Kullgren stated that rates are done by merit, they have ranged anywhere from 1.5% – 3.5%
Dumas asked that they reconsider giving her a 1.75% raise in this day and age. He further commented that he has worked with Molly on the Jamboree and the project would not have been so successful if not for her leadership. She helped participate with the FEMA funding. He would like to see a 3% raise given to Molly.
Andrew Heck stated that she went over on her wages by $1,100.00, if she gets a 3% raise, and if she goes over again, then it would really be a 6% raise. He is not supportive of a 3% increase for that position.
Kullgren noted that the activities budget has been brought to zero.
Rainier commented that is a result of the revolving account.
Molly pointed out that Oak Park Repairs & Activities has also been reduced. She explained the revolving account how it works, and as a result of the account, she can now pay for the repairs & activities without it being a cost to the taxpayers.
Resident, Arlene Guinn commented that she has lived in Greenfield since 2000. She went on to say that she wants to say positive things about the parks & recreation, but feels that as far as her children go, she and her children are getting less & less programs in Greenfield. Mrs. Guinn went on to say that volunteer wise there has been an outpouring of support, but programs are being farmed out to Peterborough. Residents are paying for swim lessons. To allow her children to participate in after school, she took it upon herself to join the Greenfield Elementary School PTO and after school program. Mrs. Guinn did agree the Jamboree was a success, but the PTO, not the Recreation Department, sponsored only program for children. Many residents have mentioned they want to see a raft back at Sunset Lake,
she understands that there were issues with the raft, but the raft issue should be reconsidered and the Parks & Rec. Department should be thinking of children more. A summer program would be nice, Francestown has a summer program for their kids, several other towns have, Crotched Mountain offers swimming, what do we get from Greenfield for children.
Gwynn Mitchell commented that she remembers at Town Meeting several years ago it was voted that swim lessons are supposed to be free.
Molly responded by saying that she does charge for swim lessons, that offsets the expense of the lifeguards. Molly went on to say that she is not sure where the idea came that baseball was being “farmed out”; there is no available schedule at this time, the schedules are being set by Cal Ripkin, so she and Selectmen determined to have residents contact Cal Ripkin directly.
Guinn stated the impression of the letter that was mailed out is that baseball is going to Peterborough.
Katherine Heck commented as a parent, the Cal Ripkin website has not been updated and phone calls are not returned. Due to poor communications she can see how some parents would be frustrated.
Article #11 – Police:
Chief Giammarino was unable to attend the meeting tonight; Chairman Kullgren indicated he would do the best he can to answer any questions.
It was noted, the proposed 2008 budget is down. With the loss of one officer, the new officer has a reduced rate of health insurance.
Linda Dodge asked about the special detail funds.
Catherine Shaw explained that the income on the revenue side of the budget offsets the expenses for that line item.
There were no further questions about the police budget.
Article 12- Recycle Center:
Kullgren discussed that Matt Blanchard and his helpers, Patricia LaPree and Danni Lowell are doing a fantastic job, everyone is very excited and there will be many changes at the recycle center in the upcoming year.
Myron Steere asked about the contract time for Monadnock Disposal Services.
Kullgren responded, there is a new contract that was recently signed and it is for 3 years. The Town has a guaranteed flat rate for the 3 years. The Board has challenged the new recycle department to increase the amount of recycling in Greenfield, and to get the residents excited about recycling.
Mike Kavenagh discussed that years ago there were periodic spot checks of bags & residents for recycling, this should also be re-implemented.
Linda Dodge asked if there is mandatory recycling and if there is maybe a sign should be posted.
Catherine Shaw said that was discussed recently and Matt is going to make a sign.
Arlene Guinn asked about a pay as you through program.
Kullgren discussed recycling clean office paper, the current price for clean paper is $285.00/ton.
Adams again mentioned there would be changes implemented, and the town will see a change where more recycling will be encouraged.
Katherine Heck suggested having containers for homeowners, similar to what they do in larger cities.
Al Burtt asked about revenues in the general budget. He specifically wanted to know when we would get revenue from Crotched Mountain Foundation for the use of the old town office.
Kullgren explained to Mr. Burtt the considerable expenses they put into the building are considered to be the rent, they also have a contract with the Town for 3 years at which time it can be renegotiated.
Maryanne Grant stated the director is telling folks that it is a 10-year contract.
Kullgren corrected her that the current contract can be reviewed and renewed for a longer period, but the current contract is for 3 years.
Maryanne asked about Greenfield Commons not using the Recycle Center, could Selectmen consider asking Matt work with the Commons to encourage them to recycle.
All Selectmen agreed that is a possibility.
Dario Carrara asked about the Payment in Lieu of Taxation agreement the Town has with Crotched Mountain, he wondered if that agreement could be revisited; there are substantial changes taking place at the Mountain, Carrara indicated he thinks it should be revisited and asked the if the Selectmen had entertained this idea.
Selectmen indicated they have the option and will consider it.
With no further business the budget hearing adjourned at 9:00 pm.
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