Selectmen’s Minutes
May 14, 2002
Present: Judy Murdoch, Cathy Kuchinski, Stephanie McSweeney and Peter Jones (Webster absent). Also present were Executive Secretary, E. Winn Davis and Management Assistant Meredith Scozzari
7:12 p.m. Vice-Chairman Kuchinski called the meeting to order and read the announcements and upcoming meeting schedule. She thanked Louise Tanderes of Pembroke for the donation of Hanson prints, which were on display.
John Aiello – Mr. Aiello was present for his hearing. He indicated that he never received notice that the hearing had been rescheduled. He acknowledged that he had read it in the newspaper, but never received confirmation from the Selectmen’s office. Mr. Davis apologized stating that due to all the various correspondence, he thought he had notified Mr. Aiello. Mr. Aiello also indicated that he had been waiting for a name of an attorney to represent him at the Ridder deposition, which had been re-scheduled to Wednesday May 15th. Mr. Aiello acknowledged that he had received two names from the Selectmen’s office on Thursday, but didn’t wish to use them. He will retain his own counsel and have them contact the Selectmen’s office.
Executive Secretary’s Report – Mr. Davis updated that Board on the status of the Northland property. He provided the Board with a packet of information for their review. He updated the Board on the final version of the Early Retirement bill, which is on the Governor’s desk. Mr. Davis and Mrs. Gomez prepared a chart outlining potential employee who qualify for the early retirement. Mrs. Gomez requested that the Board act on it before June 30th to give themselves enough time to fill any of the department head positions, which may become vacant under the program.
Barbara Gomez, Accountants Monthly Report – Mrs. Gomez presented her monthly report. She indicated that most budgets are in line for this time of the year. She did highlight the fire overtime line, which should be monitored.
Jean Marie Smith Senior Center Monthly Report – Mrs. Smith was present with Judy Eldridge, the outreach coordinator. Mrs. Smith reviewed her report, highlighting the volunteer program. Currently there are 65 active volunteers. She informed the Board that Karyn Kenn has been hired as the Administrative Assistant. She discussed National Senior Week, various grant availability and upcoming educational courses.
Chief Hoyt Monthly Fire Report – Chief Hoyt was present with Lt. Proudman who has just recently graduated from the Officers Training Course at the Fire Academy. The Chief indicated that four other firefighters are enrolled. The Chief reviewed his report highlighting the “Safe Prom” event with Whitman Fire. A mock accident is scheduled at Maquan School next week. The Chief indicated that the storm damage at the Main St. fire station will be covered through the May Town Meeting article and insurance. The funds should cover the entire roof. The Chief has applied for two equipment and training grants and is waiting for a reply.
Request from Hanson Rod & Gun Club – Request to use Town Hall Pond for a Fishing Derby on June 2nd from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. They have also requested use of the Town Hall bathroom facilities. After brief discussion, the Board agreed that the bathroom facilities would not be available and recommended referring people to the fire station or Ferry’s.
MOTION by Murdoch, second by Jones to grant the Hanson Rod & Gun Club permission to use the Town Hall grounds for the fishing derby on June 2nd. Voted 4– 0.
Michael Kennedy – Building Inspector Monthly Report – Mr. Kennedy briefly reviewed his report. He has been working with the fire department reviewing and coordinating inspections. There are potentially two new subdivisions under review by the Planning Board. One is located off Whitman Street. Mr. Jones inquired about the estimated costs for the projects. Mr. Kennedy indicated that his estimates are based on fair market value. Mr. Kennedy updated the Board on the status of some zoning issues.
Police Department Report – Chief King was unable to attend. Ms. Kuchinski quickly reviewed his report highlighting staffing, shadowing day, Community Service and the CHIPs program, grants, court cases, traffic enforcement and calls for service
Senior Center Feasibility Study Committee – Mrs. Murdoch reminded the Board that an alternate Selectman should be appointed to the committee. After brief discussion, the matter was tabled until May 23rd when new members are elected.
Set up composition of Betterment Committee & set deadline for applications – Discussed the number of people to be on the committee. A recommendation was made that the committee should have 5-members comprised of a member from the Water Dept., Board of Selectmen and one person from each precinct. Notice to go out that applications are available for appointment and the deadline is May 31st. Appointments to be made on June 4th.
MOTION by Jones, second by McSweeney to appoint a five member Betterment/Assessment Committee with one Water Department member, one selectmen and 3 citizens at large, one from each precinct. The Committee to review laws regarding betterments and assessments and report to the October Town Meeting.
Sign consent for AT&T Broadband merger w/ Comcast - Brief discussion regarding the authorization of the merger. Mr. Jones and Mr. Davis recalled voting the authorization previously. Matter tabled until May 23rd.
Mrs. Murdoch last meeting – Ms. Kuchinski acknowledged that this is Mrs. Murdoch’s last Board of Selectmen’s meeting after 15 years. She was given a cake to celebrate the occasion. Other departments were invited to attend.
MOTION by Kuchinski, second by Jones to adjourn. Voted 4 – 0.
8:50 p.m. Meeting Adjourned
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