Town of Greenfield
Selectmen’s Meeting Minutes
Thursday – January 27, 2011 – 6:00 pm
Present: Chairman, Jarvis Adams, IV; Selectwoman, Karen Day; Selectman, Aaron Kullgren
Minutes: Debra Davidson taking minutes.
Appointments:
6:00 – AA update
Problem with Heat – Davidson reported the heating system was not working on Tuesday. Davidson contacted Pinney Plumbing who came out and took care of the problem. There has been no report what the problem was; Pinney will be contacted for a report.
Recycling Center Concerns – Davidson began explaining a concern that was brought to her this week regarding the Recycling Center. Resident, Donna Smith was present and discussed concerns she had regarding the Recycling Center. She stated when she was there on Saturday cans, dumpster and tin was overflowing, paper was closed. Smith asked the Selectboard why are we recycling if the bins are closed.
Selectwoman Day stated prices are so low it isn’t feasible to recycle the paper. Smith stated a year ago her trash was opened and Jarvis explained to her how to recycle; she questioned why aren’t we recycling? She also commented there was no one outside to help or give directive.
Selectman Kullgren stated that he agreed, the Selectmen want to encourage recycling and we should recycle. They will be discussing this with Ms. Burgess.
Kullgren said that a public relations is an important part of that position. A letter will be mailed to Mrs. Smith.
Lighting Update – Davidson reported she had met with Richard Parks who is going to be installing a motion light at the police station, installing a temporary light for the walkway and providing a price for adequate walkway lighting to be installed in the spring. Mr. Parks is also going to investigate the incinolet and determine what is wrong with the device.
MS-6 – Davidson reminded the Board the MS-6 needs to be posted on February 1, 2011.
Budget – Davidson discussed some changes in the budget. On the Revenues – Recommended increasing Land Use Change Tax, as there is already revenue of $4,500.00; Police budget needs an increase in Radio Repairs, Education at the Recycling Center was paid in 2010 but is a 2011 expense. Discussion followed that the Recycling Education expense should not be moved to reflect a 2010 expense; there is a likelihood this expense would be moved into 2011 budget year by the auditors.
Day stated the education cost was approved by the Selectboard to be paid out of the 2010 budget; she believes it should go towards 2010 budget. Kullgren recommended Davidson contact the auditor for advice. Selectmen will talk to Ms. Burgess when she comes in later this evening about this. Adams thanked Davidson for the feedback and would like her to look into it.
6:30 – Recycling Supervisor, Carol Burgess & DPW Director, Kevin McDonald – Chairman Adams asked Ms. Burgess to report to the Board. Burgess stated she has redone her budget and provided the Selectmen with revised figures. Selectmen reviewed the revised budget. Selectmen discussed part-time wages and the need for the figure of $10,114, as there has to be additional help at the Recycling Center on Saturdays. She has reduced it to 7 hours during the week and 8 on Saturdays.
Adams asked about the skid steer – McDonald did a presentation on leasing equipment. McDonald indicated Caterpillar would not lease a used piece of equipment. Caterpillar was the favorable price, New Holland wasn’t helpful, and John Deer was comparable.
Resident, Donna Smith asked if this equipment is for Highway or Recycling, she doesn’t see it in the budget. Adams replied it is being considered and isn’t in the budget yet, it needs to go to Town Meeting as a Warrant Article.
Adams asked if they had researched used equipment. McDonald stated that there is a huge savings buying new vs. used.
Administrative Assistant, Davidson was asked to use the finance tools she knows of and see if they will finance used equipment, as well as researching financing options for new equipment.
Selectman Kullgren discussed the concerns Mrs. Smith had regarding the Recycling Center with Ms. Burgess. Kullgren discussed the importance of being present when residents arrive at the Recycling center as well as closing doors and telling residents to throw recycling into the trash.
There is a Temporary sign for the white paper.
Selectmen discussed the importance that residents have learned to recycle and they need to feel confident that the Town will continue to recycle.
Burgess explained that Tuesday a gentleman from Crotched Mountain was working and his aid was with him. She further explained that Saturday was a good day; there was one worker from Crotched Mountain who had two aids. Discussion followed.
Mrs. Smith asked about the liability of this situation for the town. Smith also stated that if Ms. Burgess is not able to do her job because of the help, she believes that is a liability to the Town.
7:00 Community Development Block Grant Hearing - At this time it was 7:00 pm, Chairman Adams closed the Selectmen’s Meeting and opened the Community Block Grant Hearing.
Informational packets were available for distribution at this time.
Selectmen opened the public hearing with Chairman Adams discussing the rules for this hearing. Chairman Adams read the following information.
Community Development Block Grant funds are available to municipalities through the NH Community Development Finance Authority. Up to $500,000 annually is available on a competitive basis for economic development, public facility and housing projects and emergency activities that directly benefit low and moderate-income persons. Up to $12,000 is available for feasibility study grants.
This is a proposed application to the Community Development Finance Authority for up to $500,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds. The Town will retain up to $25,000 of the grant for administration costs and sub-grant the remainder to Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center for site work in support of the construction of 26 units of affordable housing for primarily low and moderate income households.
This project conforms with Greenfield’s Housing and Community Development Plan’s Goal of: Encouraging a varied stock of safe, sanitary, decent and affordable housing for persons of all age and income groups. (Short-term and Long-term goal).
Funding request: up to $500,000
Michael Redmond from Crotched Mountain introduced himself and further explained the proposal. Explaining that through this project Crotched Mountain would like to build this to be afforded by low – moderate incomes. Believes this project to be a benefit of the community of Greenfield, it will satisfy the low-income housing requirements in a responsible manner. This is not for Crotched Mountain employees only, it is housing for all people who would qualify. Redmond explained the majority of the funding would come through a low income tax credit organization. The overall project is approximately Six million dollars; the project will produce jobs in the community, as well as housing for those who would like to live on the campus.
The housing units are going to be located where the old maintenance building was located; it is in a great location at the Crotched Mountain facility. Local architect, Sheldon Pennoyer, has designed the project.
Mr. Redmond explained the purpose of this hearing is to see if the Town will support this application of a grant in the amount of $500,000.00 to the CDBG.
Resident, Al Burtt asked how many two vs. 3 bedroom units?
Redmond stated it there would be mostly two bedrooms.
Burt asked about children.
Redmond stated he couldn’t anticipate that.
Burtt stated that based on history, they will be charging rent, paying no taxes and children will be enrolled into the school system. Burtt stated in his opinion this doesn’t seem economically feasible.
Redmond stated that Crotched Mountain does make a significant Payment in Lieu of Taxes. They have come to a voluntary agreement to increase their PILOT by $35,000.00/year. They are also one of the largest contributors to the Town of Greenfield. The organization does not want to be a burden on the system and would revisit the agreement if necessary.
Donna Smith asked if the PILOT is an understanding or a contract?
Redmond stated to his knowledge it is a contract and added Crotched Mountain has always willingly agreed to reconsider the PILOT agreement. They employ 80 residents of Greenfield, pay full benefits and on their own accord have paid the PILOT willingly.
Donna Smith addressed this question to the Selectmen, wondering how much of our service dollar wise goes to Crotched Mountain.
Kullgren stated that historically the ambulance is approx. 20%; Kullgren added that was the reason for the recent renegotiating of the PILOT.
Peter Hopkins responded that there are a substantial number of calls to Crotched Mountain. His concern is that we always spend money to renegotiate the PILOT; Hopkins stated that doesn’t seem like a reasonable activity. Particularly in housing, if they don’t pay property tax it is an unfair advantage to an entity that we should not be granting. Hopkins stated things change year to year. He agrees Crotched Mountain is a willing support, as time goes on, the Town has less and less of the feeling of support for charitable organizations that don’t have a measured input to the community.
Resident, Tod Smith commented, “traditionally this is called low income, and it usually ends up with no income housing”. Discussion followed.
Redmond stated these housing units are open to the public by law. He imagines those who would want to live on a campus where there is a place of business might be those that work there, but he does not know that. He believes this is very possible. There is a rental fee; a tenant would be evicted if they couldn’t pay their rent. Crotched Mountain does take pride in their buildings and would expect the property to remain to a certain standard. Crotched Mountain is affiliated with four similar projects around NH, and also with projects in Maine & Massachusetts.
NH Housing Program Manager, Gloria Paradise explained that Federal requirements are 30 years and this project must comply with Federal standards.
Resident, George Rainier asked about Town Welfare and the impact this facility could have on that.
Administrative Assistant, Deb Davidson explained RSA165 and the requirement of municipalities assisting residents when they are in need, if they qualify.
Todd Smith asked if the Board is making a decision tonight or does this go to Town Meeting?
Chairman Adams stated they could make the decision tonight.
Redmond stated this is the public hearing for the project.
Todd Smith asked what about Town Meeting and asked it be explained how does this work.
Gloria Paradise explained that in accordance with RSA 31, Federal funds are available. Municipalities have the authority to accept and spend funds in the State of NH.
Donna Smith asked “why if Crotched Mountain is such a large entity, this goes through the Town and why doesn’t Crotched Mountain write their own grants?” She also asked “why are they tarnishing the Town of Greenfield. She went on to say, if the grant is for Greenfield, it deters Greenfield from getting other grant at a later date”.
Adams replied it has to be a wash for the accounting,
Gloria Paradise explained that CDBG are available to municipalities only up to $500,000/year; Greenfield has an excellent reputation and that this does not affect Greenfield from getting grants. Paradise stated it could actually help Greenfield with grants.
Donna Smith asked why is Greenfield doing this grant for Crotched Mountain and not for themselves.
Gloria Paradise stated that typically because they may be receiving $500,000 it is a good thing. Other grant agencies will look into the Town of Greenfield and what funds they have received, audits reviewed and proper management of grants works to the Town’s advantage.
Peter Hopkins stated as far as he knows, the Town of Greenfield is not receiving grants from CDBG for this year. This would not hurt the Town; he did ask if a private organization would be eligible for this project.
Al Burtt commented that 26 housing units, low – moderate income, not incorporate taxes into the equation, what does that do to the people who purchased Carbees?
Gloria Paradise replied that Housing Authorities would not support a project unless a market study has been completed, and it has.
George Rainier asked when was the PILOT last renegotiated?
Redmond discussed the PILOT, stated it was renegotiated recently and will continue to be renegotiated whenever necessary.
Todd Smith asked how does this agreement get carried forward?
John Gryval discussed that when the Zoning Board approved the project, they approved the setbacks, the project meets zoning requirements etc. Gryval mentioned it is costing the Town of Greenfield approximately $16,000.00/pupil to attend Conval. District funding and how this project could affect that should be considered.
Gloria Paradise stated the IRS, not Crotched Mountain, sets the rental prices.
Al Burtt acknowledged that legally the Selectboard had to hold this meeting; he further asked if they going to do as they please anyway?” Burtt asked if this is a waste of effort, if the Board is going to do whatever they want. In his opinion the Town of Greenfield is subservient to Crotched Mountain.
Peter Hopkins commented that to take all concerns out of the picture, they are asking for $500,000.00 grant application, any decision to support this request has no bearing on any other activity the Town of Greenfield is looking towards.
Redmond explained various financing tools that will be supporting this program; this is just a portion of the funding. Further explanation of the grant process followed.
Todd Smith stated he thinks this is important and thinks it should be on a ballot for Town Meeting.
Adams explained that is not an option.
7:59 pm - No further comment from the public, Chairman Adams closed this portion of the public hearing.
Selectmen opened the second Public Hearing at 8:00 pm
Selectmen discuss the updated Housing and Community Development Plan.
This project conforms to Greenfield’s Housing and Community Development Plan’s Goal of:
Encouraging a varied stock of safe, sanitary, decent and affordable housing for persons of all age and income groups. (Short-term and Long-term goal).
Gloria Paradise explained the purpose of the housing and community development plan. The Town is committed to comply and read the goals of meeting the housing and community development needs.
The Planning Board has also read these goals.
Selectmen closed this portion of the Public Hearing at 8:05 pm
VOTING:
#1 – Motion by Day for Selectmen vote to approve the submittal of the application and vote to authorize the Chairman to sign and submit the application, and upon approval of the CDBG application, authorize the Chairman to execute any documents that may be necessary to effectuate the CDBG contract up to $500,000.00.
Seconded by Chairman Adams. Discussion followed.
This motion was amended to add “up to 500,000.00”
Chairman Adams stated that hearing the residents he understands their concerns. He further commented that Crotched Mountain is a good neighbor and he supports this project and would like to see this go forward, if an entity stays stagnant and doesn’t move forward. Adams supports this application.
Selectwoman Day added for all those reasons and that the PILOT can always be revisited she also supports the application.
Selectman Kullgren stated this isn’t personal, he got on this Board to listen to the constituents and he wants to do that. Kullgren is intending to vote No on the application for the CDBG.
Day & Adams voted Yes; Kullgren voted no. Motion passes.
#2. Motion by Adams, Selectmen vote to adopt the Housing and Community Development Plan as submitted. Seconded by Kullgren – Plan is available for viewing at the Town Office. Voted 3-0 affirmative. Motion passes.
#3 Motion by Adams to approve the non-displacement report, Seconded by Kullgren. Plan is available for viewing at the Town Office. Voted affirmatively 3-0. Motion passes.
8:30 pm - At this time the Selectmen re-opened their regular Selectmen’s Meeting completing the following:
Selectmen’s Approval:
January 20, 2011 Selectmen’s Meeting Minutes were accepted as written.
Sign Documents for Approval:
A/P Invoices were signed and approved
A/P Checks were approved
Other Matters:
Mail - Misc. mail was reviewed
Letters- Tabled from HHCCS – requesting restoration of $775.00/year for Home Health Care
Personnel Policy Updates –Tabled until meeting BOS and Dept. Heads.
Purchase order policy – Tabled until BOS signature
Purchase Order – DPW Supervisor, Kevin McDonald provided two purchase orders, one for rubber replacement wiper for Snow Bully and one for cutting edge & carbide edge blades.
9:00 pm – In accordance with RSA 91A:3 II (a) personnel motion by Chairman Adams to enter into a non-public session to discuss a personnel matter. Seconded by Day. Voted: 3-0 in the affirmative.
9:20 pm – motion to enter out of the non-public session. Seconded by Day. Voted: 3-0 in the affirmative.
Decision: Administrative Assistant is to discuss protocol with the bookkeeper.
9:30 - Adjournment - With no further business the Selectmen adjourned the meeting. The next Selectmen’s Meeting will be on Thursday, February 3, 2011 at 6:00 pm. Selectmen will be having a work session only, no appointments will be scheduled.
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