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Selectmen Minutes 05-14-09
Town of Greenfield
Selectmen’s Meeting Minutes
Thursday – May 14, 2009 – 6:00 pm


Present: Chairwoman, Karen Day; Selectman, Jarvis Adams, IV; Selectman, Aaron Kullgren
Minutes: Administrative Assistant, Deb Davidson
Call to order:  6:03 by Chairwoman Day
6:30 – CRF  Meeting – A public meeting was held to discuss utilizing Capital Reserve Funds (CRF) for the purpose of repairing the Library Roof and Energy Improvements to the Town Office building.  Discussion followed.  Selectman Kullgren motioned to utilize funds from the Library Roof to allow necessary repairs to be completed at the Library and to further utilize funds from the Energy Improvements to the Town Office Building fund to make energy improvements to the Town Office.  Seconded by Day & Adams.  No discussion.  Voted: 3-0 in the affirmative.
Appointments:
6:00 – John Erdman – Mr. Erdman presented the Board of Selectmen with a proposed budget, allowing BCH to manage the beachfront.  The proposal included, approximately $5,000.00 for swimming, lessons, training & waterfront care.  The times the lifeguards would man the beach will be rearranged, swim lessons will be changed to 1-hour lessons, 2 sessions per summer.  It has been determined the most needed times for lifeguarding is between 4:00-6:30 M-F and Noon – 5:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday.  The operating season will run from June 29th through August 30th.
Mr. Erdman discussed in detail the proposal.
Discussion followed regarding Greenfield children being provided free swimming lessons.  While out of town children would be charged a fee.  The fee will be negotiated.  Some of the items discussed in the proposal are:
  • There will be 2 lifeguards on at all times
  • If additional staff is needed for swim lessons, BCH would provide the staff at no additional fee
  • The raft was discussed – this will be reviewed again
  • Access to a nurse at all times
  • Costs
  • Indemnity agreement
  • Insurances
Chairwoman Day discussed speaking with the Recreation Committee to review and check hours of operation.  Day discussed budgets and asked if BCH would consider incurring the cost of the set up training & negotiate the $4,300.00 that was budgeted for 2009.
Mr. Erdman will discuss this and get back to the Board with what he finds.
Deb was instructed to contact the Recreation Committee as to when their next meeting will be.  She was also asked to check out equipment in the Sunset Lake shed.
7:00 – Fire Chief Plourde & Deputy Fire Chief White - Chief Plourde stated they would like the Selectmen’s blessing on the matter of volunteering services to residents.  Chief Plourde & Deputy White have spoken with Ron O’Keefe, the risk management representative for LGC.  They discussed programs (i.e. pool filling, chimney cleaning etc.) Mr. O’Keefe was originally saying the Town is not insured for such programs.  Plourde explained to Mr. O’Keefe the department uses these programs for training opportunities, which after some thought Mr. O’Keefe stated he would consider the programs to be acceptable training services, provided they had prior approval from the Board of Selectmen.  
Selectman Adams asked about liability for homeowners; property owners must sign a document stating the town would not be held responsible for any damages, prior to entering onto private properties.
Resident, Kent Vincent asked if this is this in writing
Selectman Adams responded that yes it will be in writing; we currently have it in writing.
Selectman Kullgren motioned to allow the Fire Department to help residents within town with chimney cleaning, pool filling, rides for children and any other training opportunity the Fire Chief deems appropriate.  Seconded by Day.  Selectmen Voted:  Kullgren – yes; Day  - yes; Adams - yes
Motion passed in the affirmative 3-0
Deputy Chief White asked if the town has ever acknowledged the Fire Fighters Association, this would indemnify the town.  White has asked former Chief Conway, and has not yet received a response.
The current Board does not know this answer, Administrative Assistant stated since she has worked for the Town she does not recall the acknowledgement, it may have been done prior to 1997 though.  This will be looked into.
White stated that there has been a recall on Hewlett Packard and Compact Laptop batteries.   The batteries are faulty causing the laptops to be susceptible to catching on fire. This will be posted on the bulletin board at the town office and put into the next Spirit.
Maryann Grant asked Plourde or White if they could write a letter from the Fire Department for her to put into the welcome baskets.  She would like the next set of baskets to be delivered in July; therefore she would need the letter prior to July.
Plourde & White both stated they would get a letter to Mrs. Grant as soon as possible.
7:30 – Al Burtt – Update on Crotched Mountain – Mr. Burtt thought he was on the agenda at 7:15, he needed to cancel his appointment.
Approval of minutes:
Selectmen approved the April 23rd, 2009 Selectboard minutes
Selectmen approved the April 30th Public meeting minutes
Sign Documents:
Selectmen signed the following documents:
  • A/P invoices & manifest
  • ZBA Appointments – Dineen, O’Connell, Sanford
  • Abatement – Grant – V3-27
  • Land Use Change Tax – GCCC - $6,200
  • Letter – Steere
  • MS-5
  • Addendum to Church Lease

Old Business:
Annual review of Town Policies – Cash receipts – Selectmen signed the updated policy, the discussion will be tabled and reviewed at the next meeting with the financial department.
Hazardous Waste Day Update – Recycle Attendant, Matt Blanchard asked the Administrative Assistant to explain to the Board the cost to participate in Keene Hazardous Waste program.  The cost of the program is $1,500.00.  There are several dates when Greenfield residents can dispose of their hazardous waste.  There are limitations as to amounts, a notice will be posted around Town, as well as, on the website and in the Spirit.  Selectmen unanimously approved contracting with Keene.   
Mountaineers Agreement – At this time the BOS were going into deliberation to discuss and review the agreement between the Monadnock Mountaineers and the Town of Greenfield.
With several residents being present, Chairwoman Day discussed there have been many discussions from many residents of the town, and the Board wants to review the contract.  The Board is prepared to address concerns of everyone.  Day discussed she was provided e-mails and letters, which address concerns several residents seem to have.
Day stated they are looking at the pros and cons and listening to what residents have to say.  Day continued by stating this arrangement has been discussed for quite some time – Selectmen have minutes and letters that are dated back as far as 2005 discussing this very matter.  The previous Pop-Warner Board had been talking with our previous Recreation Director.
Day discussed what she considers advantages to entering into this agreement.
The following topics were discussed and have been considered by the Board of Selectmen, and two members of the Board of Directors, for the Mountaineers.
  • Upgrades to the field
  • Acknowledging football is tough on field; it turns out soccer has cleats as well
  • Noise
  • Lighting
Day further noted that the Mountaineers have assured the Town they will do nothing without approval from the Board of Selectmen.  Day commented she believes this has been blown way out of proportion; Day further stated that no one is giving the park away.  This organization has rented the park for 5 years, to the Boards knowledge there have been no complaints until now.  Day further commented there are advantages to this agreement that should not be overlooked.
Day noted she would let everyone have an opportunity to speak, as long as they are respectful to everyone present.
Resident, Neal Brown discussed his thoughts on this program.
Resident, Kent Vincent commented that he does not think the Board has a right to sign the agreement, Mr. Vincent went on to express his concerns.
Selectman Kullgren said he would like it on record “that he is willing to sign the document at this time and will go before the Town to get the vote of the Town”.
Selectman Adams agrees with this comment, and would also be willing to go before the Town at Town Meeting next March.
Mr. Vincent commented to Ms. Day that he wanted to “make a point of order” to the Board of Selectmen.
Resident, Andrew Heck stated he objected, to this “point of order” as this is belittling and the agenda does not reflect this topic at this time.  Heck further commented this meeting  is out of control and is inappropriate.
Cheryl Jessie, Vice President of the Monadnock Mountaineers, commented there is a professional drawing available for tonight.  They came to this meeting to discuss with the Board of Selectmen what took place at the public hearing, they are not here to be attacked.  They are working hard to be neighborly, create a nice park, not to offend anyone, she is very hurt by the comments and attacks the public has made and feels these attacks are very inappropriate.
Resident, Nori Odoi stated she has discovered many residents didn’t know about this, they didn’t know who to complain to about their concerns.  
Resident, Everett Reed commented there is also 6 weeks of touch football, with one game on a Saturday.
Cheryl Jessie replied that is true, however it is not at Oak Park.
Resident, Robert Meagher asked if parking will be prohibited on Route 136 & Forest Road – would it also be prohibited on Knotwood Drive.
Day stated that they would note that – Day further commented the Town does have a permit coming from the State Park, authorizing usage of the triangle for overflow parking to events.
Mr. Vincent asked how will they police the parking – “This will tax the Town”
Selectman Adams stated he knows the Mountaineers will be good neighbors and they will make every effort to comply with the wishes of the Town.
Vincent continued with his disagreements on this, he is concerned about the Police.
Resident, Peter Hopkins stated that it seems like de-ja-vu to him, the Town now has a Meeting Hall that is empty because of a few residents.  Peter went on to ask if we are trying to become a “Town of Isolationists”.  Hopkins further discussed his feelings about the park and the use of the park being used as it was intended.
Resident, Linda Thomas stated she knows the park is not being used as Hopkins stated – Pee Wee softball, walking, jogging, and the playground are all uses that regularly take place at the park.  She wants to keep the park as it is.
Resident, Mary Fitzpatrick stated she has lived on Knotwood Drive for the past10 years – ½ of the time she has resided there, there has not been football.  Ms. Fitzpatrick noted that this past year was really loud; she never investigated what was going on.  Fitzpatrick continued to discuss her thoughts on football and the park.  She commented that if this goes before town meeting and the residents support this, she would support this. She wanted to let the Mountaineers to know she appreciates their response, and for listening to everyone’s concerns.
Resident, Ron Russell asked what the difference is between rentals vs. lease and is the town receiving compensation.
Day stated at this time the Town is not receiving any compensation, the Mountaineers are offering to do upgrades to the field, and only upgrades that the Selectboard approves will be completed.  
Resident, Christine Polito stated she lives on Knotwood Drive and that the only concern she has is the PA system.  She doesn’t mind the children, but the PA does bother her.  If that can be taken care of she would be happy.
Resident, Virginia Bingham asked about park rental.
Molly Anfuso introduced herself as the former Park & Rec Director and also as an abutter – she commented, that she thinks it’s been 4 years football has been at the park.  Ms. Anfuso discussed her history with the Pop Warner.  She commented that she did an experiment to see how things would go with the increased use; she has the answer based on this meeting.  Ms. Anfuso stated there were complaints, however she didn’t bring them to the attention of the Board. She handled all the complaints herself.  She stated in the past Town rentals have always taken precedence; Anfuso stated she had a situation last year where football was double booked with a function at the park, and it was very distressing for Ms. Anfuso.
Resident, Don Winslow asked if he could go back to the parking issue, specifically the use of the triangle and the memorial tree.  He wanted assurance the memorial tree would not be damaged.
Day responded, it would be protected and not damaged.
Robert Meagher said he had two points:
  • It is a no brainer, refer this matter to the Town, as a Town vote
  • He moved here in 2005 and knew nothing of this football when he purchased his property.
Andrew Heck commented that next year his son will be playing football and he wants to have the priviledge of allowing local children the use of the park.  Mr. Heck asked if this was the only field the Mountaineers have considered.
Ms. Jessie stated in the past they had practice at Peterborough Elementary School and at ConVal, however they have been in Greenfield for 4-5 years and would like to continue the relationship they have with Greenfield.
Mr. Vincent stated he will answer the to that – Vincent stated that he has a letter from the ConVal Athletic Director, Jon Hall indicating “the Mountaineers were kicked out of ConVal.”
Ms. Jessie replied by stating “that is not true”.  She explained that there was one game day in November, the previous Presidents were told not to play in the rain, the request was ignored.  The Mountaineers re-seeded and repaired the field. Jessie asked Mr. Vincent to see the letter he is referring to, as they were not kicked out of anywhere.
Resident, Pelagia Vincent asked about movie night, that is advertised on their website.
Cheryl Jessie stated it was a thought for a fundraiser, it was put on their website without permission.  It has been removed from the website.
Nori Odoi stated she has concerns about movie night, her concerns are noise & things happening after dark.  That affects everyone.  She wants the agreement to make it very clear what is or is not allowed.
Resident, David Gilmore stated his concern that the previous Board of Directors have done other things, he too, would like the new contract to be clearly spelled out.  He wants to know what the chain of command is to remediate the inevitable failures.
Resident, Jason Sekella of Swamp Road commented that when the Scottish Games where here they parked down Swamp Road and blocked in his driveway.  He asked the Selectmen, if rules aren’t adhered to, will the Board tell the Mountaineers to pack it up.
Selectman Kullgren responded that, similar to an employee, 3 strikes and they would be gone.
Mary Fitzpatrick pointed out that if the agreement goes through, the agreement is with the Town of Greenfield and the relationship with those who live in the neighborhood.
Ron Russell asked if anyone has contacted the DES about the water issues.
Adams responded by saying NO
Russell commented that we need a Town Meeting.
Day stated they will only be using organic chemicals.
Russell asked if there will be a water study.
Day said no, she doesn’t think it is necessary.
Ted Jarest, President Monadnock Mountaineers stated the Mountaineers said they would have it evaluated so they know what wells they can use, how much water they can use and how not to effect the aquifir.
Russell asked when will a noise study be done.
Adams said there would be discussion later tonight whether or not to purchase a decibel meter.
Resident, Bob Marshall commented that he finds this a fascinating conversation.  Marshall went on to comment that interestingly he was involved with Pop Warner Football.  His heart is with the community and with those who want to do something for the young people.  He is well aware of past complaints that  when everything was in Peterborough, and Greenfield, children had to travel to Peterborough.  Now people are reaching out to this community, and it appears that residents want to stop it.  Reflecting on the concerns of the  abutters, Marshall stated he is sympathetic.  He further discussed if this was not brought forward publicly, the Mountaineers would have just carried on.  Marshall stated he felt the Town should give them a chance to correct any past problems or concerns.  Do a study throughout the winter after the games and bring it before the voters.
Ms. Anfuso agrees with Mr. Marshall, but doesn’t think this is the year.  She thinks the Board should slow it down.  Anfuso stated she wanted to clarify there has been no contact with Peterborough Rescue or Greenfield Rescue from the Mountaineers.  If there are calls during a Sunday game, call mutual aid – Anfuso went on to discuss the logistics of rescue.
Jessie clarified the comments in the paper – there are two coaches who are EMT’s and one who is a paramedic.  During  games there are two parent volunteers that act as the EMT’s on the field, Peterborough Rescue does come.
Resident, Gladys Bugler of Knotwood Drive stated her biggest concern are the games on Sunday morning at 8:00 am.  She went on that she has grandchildren and is scared about the cars.  She doesn’t like to let the grandchildren outside due to the cars.  Lights, noise, Sunday games and traffic are her concerns.  Mrs. Bugler stated she didn’t know who or how to contact anyone about her concerns.
Ted Jarest stated that if he knew in November, that in May we would be doing this, they probably wouldn’t have signed on.  In their move forward, they want to know of concerns, they can’t be responsible for the past but they can move forward in a positive manner.  Jarest went on to say that the idea of movie nights being on their website was the result of a very energetic web person.  The Board of Directors had an idea and before they knew it, the idea was on the website.  The program wasn’t ready to move forward, the intention was good.   Jarest stated that the Mountaineers want to be here, the only way to see if it will work is to go through the season and see how it goes.  They want this to work, they want the community to be happy.  His concern is if they go through a perfect year and everyone is happy, going before town meeting could throw the entire program out.  They want to be here and become part of the community.  The people who are doubtful need to keep an open mind.  To touch on the venue comment, it was blown out of proportion.
Peter Hopkins expressed concerns about the other night, he stated it sounds like we are singling out one group, if rules are going to be set up that they be the same across the board.  He wants the same rules for the Fire Dept., the Blue B Que, the Little League, everyone.  Hopkins spoke in support of this and gave examples of other programs that will be taking place this summer.
David Gilmore commented the regularity is the problem for himself.
Ron Russell discussed he is dissatisfied with the noise every Saturday.
Kent Vincent stated that first he wanted to address Selectman Adams comment that it is a minority – Vincent stated it is not a minority –
Secondly, Vincent went on to state that all good intentions would be best in writing.  
Third, he thinks they need to educate themselves on the liability.
Fourth, if the use of the Park is significantly changed, it needs to be addressed.
Fifth, Zoning was a concern for Mr. Vincent.
Sixth, Vincent questioned police precence.
Jessie stated they have paid the Town $1,700.00/year for last 4-5 years, currently they are asking to use $5,000 to upgrade the field.  They want to make this work and be a good relationship for all.
Ted Jarest commented that though he grew up in Peterborough, he has fond memories of Greenfield, he remembers the Wing Ding; its that sort of home town feeling that he embraces.  He always respected Greenfield as a child and does so as an adult. He has that type of respect as a Board member now and wants to maintain this respect.
Administrative Assistant asked Selectwoman Day to inform the audience of a petition that was presented to the Board of Selectmen with 47 signatures of registered voters, all in favor of supporting the endeavor with the Monadnock Mountaineers.  These residents could not be present tonight, with such short notice.
Selectmen thanked everyone for their input.
Decibel meter – Deb was instructed to discuss this with Chief Giammarino
Spirit – Day will have it next week to review before it goes to print.
Perambulation with Lyndeborough – The 30th at 9:00 am in Lyndeborough


New business:
Staff Meeting – To discuss “internal controls” with the finance department on May 21, 2009 @ 6:30 pm.  Deb will notify all finance employees.
Revolving Acct. – Treasurer, Katherine Heck reported as of May 15, 2009 there was $14,710.42 in the revolving account – it was discussed the Board of Selectmen are the agents of the funds, the funds can be spent however the Board sees fit.  However, the expenditure does need to come before the Board, prior to spending the funds.  All or any part of the account can be utilized within the Recreation Department.  This will be run past the LGC to be sure we are handling the funds correctly.  A current spreadsheet and memo were provided for reference.
  • Decisions as to how/what to spend the funds on need to be made (i.e. raft(s), playground, tennis court repair, lifeguards, beach improvements etc.)
  • Ballet/swim lessons – no expenses to offset revenue, these funds don’t have to be put into the revolving fund.
Letter – Selectmen discussed a letter from Mr. & Mrs. Khowe – The Board will get Road Agent, Fox’s opinion as to what to do.

Recreation Coordinator - 2nd interviews will be scheduled next week.
Adjournment:  With no further business the meeting adjourned at  11:20 pm – the next selectmen’s meeting will be Thursday, May 21, 2009 at 6:00 pm.