Town of Hanson - Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes – Hanson Town Hall
December 16, 2014
Members Present: Donald Howard, James McGahan, Kenny Mitchell, William Scott & Bruce Young
Members Absent:
Others Present: Town Administrator Ronald San Angelo
Executive Assistant Meredith Marini
7:00 p.m. Chairman Young called the meeting to order, led the Pledge Allegiance. Chairman Young read the announcements and upcoming meeting schedule and requested a moment of silence for Robert Buotte former Harbormaster.
II SWEAR IN NEWLY ELECTED SELECTMAN
Chairman Young introduced Kenny Mitchell as the new Selectman. Mr. Mitchell’s family was present as Town Clerk Beth Sloan swore in Mr. Mitchell into office.
III TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Mr. San Angelo reported that he had a busy week reviewing all the budgets with the department heads. The first phase of the budget review has been completed. He is waiting for a budget from Whitman Hanson, South Shore VoTech and Norfolk Agricultural. The Finance Committee will be receiving a copy of the budget in the next few days. He reviewed a new financial report with the Finance Committee.
Mr. San Angelo reviewed the quarterly financial report with the Board noting that the Auditors are working on the FY14 Audit, the FY15 Tax rate has been submitted and approved by the State. He explained the interim statement of revenues and expenditures report. The Operating Transfer Line is comprised of Ambulance funds, transfer station revenues. He also provided a copy of the revenue and expenditure reports for the Water Department, Recreation and Transfer Station.
Transfer Station – Mr. San Angelo informed the Board that he is working to reschedule the hours of the Transfer Station to include Sunday operations. A budget has been proposed increasing the hours of one of the part time attendants to full time. The salary will be paid through the enterprise fund and not affect the taxpayers. In order to accommodate the Sunday opening, Mr. San Angelo is recommending closing the Transfer Station on Wednesday and Thursday. Based on the Selectmen’s consideration, Mr. San Angelo will discuss the change with the Board of Health. Mr. San Angelo noted, if approved, he will have to bring the matter to the Highway Union as a union member would be required to work on Sunday at straight time, which would ordinarily be paid at double time. Mr.
San Angelo indicated that he broached the issue with the Union Steward, who will bring it to the union. Mr. San Angelo indicated that the current attendants are in favor of the change. Mr. San Angelo feels it would be a positive change for the Transfer Station.
Chairman Young indicated that he feels that matter should be addressed first by the Board of Health. Mr. San Angelo is looking for a consensus of the Board of the Selectmen for support of the idea. Board of Health Chairman Gil Amado indicated that the matter will be discussed at a future meeting. Mr. McGahan recommended waiting for the Board of Health to act on the matter. Mr. San Angelo will need to address the matter with the Union.
The Board will revisit the matter on January 6, 2015.
Mr. San Angelo reported that the painting at Town Hall is moving rapidly. The second floor is nearly complete. The first floor is mostly complete. He anticipates completion of the project will by the end of January.
Mr. San Angelo noted that the Roof of the Library/Senior Center is being address. The Library Director and Director of Elder affairs are working with the Building Inspector on securing estimates in order to send out an RFP.
Cell Tower Status – Mr. San Angelo indicated that Bay Communications has withdrawn their application for the cell tower due to budget constraints. Mr. San Angelo noted that several residents have concerns as to the current location for the cell tower. Mr. San Angelo will review the contract with Chairman Young and Town Counsel. Mr. San Angelo noted that the contract does not have specific dates as to completion of the project.
Mr. McGahan noted that cell service in Hanson is poor, but he is not in favor of the location behind the Fire Station. He suggested putting together a committee to review the contract and determine a new location for the cell tower. Chairman Young noted that there had been litigation and an agreement as to the current location. Mr. San Angelo indicated that he had spoken with a representative of Bay Communication when residents objected to the Fire Station location and requested an opportunity to consider a new location for the tower. The representative from Bay Communication indicated that a new location would require them to start over. Mr. San Angelo explained that the location would have to be approved by Town Meeting and the project would require a new RFP.
Mr. Scott feels that Bay Communications has dropped the ball. He would like the Zoning Board of Appeals to accept the withdrawal with prejudice. He feels that the amount of time to file was too long. Mr. McGahan asked that Mr. San Angelo speak with Bay Communication once again relative to re-location of the tower.
IV NEW BUSINESS
Departmental Liaison Reports
Police Department – Mr. Scott indicated that he had a number of conversations with Chief Miksch. Chief Miksch is looking to bring the department up to full staff. He is currently hiring fully trained officers to fill vacancies. Chief Miksch is also considering bringing back the permanent intermittent program in order to bring forward new candidates to the department.
Mr. Scott indicated that Officer Frazer is the School Resource officer for the school. Mr. Scott and Chief Miksch have also discussed the DARE program noting that there are pros and cons to the program. Hanson continues with the DARE program but not to the extent it has operated in the past.
The new firearms equipment has been received and training will be scheduled shortly. Chief Miksch is investigating gun locks for the cruisers.
Fire Department - Mr. McGahan read the following report dated December 16, 2014 into the record.
Department Liaison Report
Hanson Fire Department
12/16/2014
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Chief Jerry Thompson a couple of times and spoke over the phone with regard to maintaining open communication, review goals and objectives of the Hanson Fire Department.
I met with Chief Thompson on Wednesday Nov. 19th and again briefly on Saturday Dec. 6th. Our discussions ranged from the department’s current and proposed budget for 2015-16 as well as future plans for the department and the Chiefs vision of the department was discussed. Chief Thompson has a clear and objective plan to ensure the department’s needs are met.
Since the Nov. 4th BOS meeting, it was noted that the liaison should bring back to the Board of Selectman any concerns that the department may have in addition to reviewing goals and objectives. On my visit to the department on Nov. 19th the parking area was crowded due to a meeting with National Guard members and other Chiefs pertaining to the Department’s business, (I.e. Lieutenant’s exam preparation for January), and preparation of the new ambulance (next day).
Some of the concerns and points of discussion:
- Tour of the new windows to the Main Street station
- Discuss anticipation of possible retirements in the near future related to the department’s personnel, short shifts in December due to 2 firefighters attending the academy and need to ensure for coverage.
- One particular concern was the proposed cell phone tower and its direct location behind the fire departments building. Although it is known that negotiations are ongoing ....there are a number of concerns with regard to the towers location, safety and reduction of parking spaces.
- In relation to the department’s parking lot - repaving appears to be a concern and in need of addressing in near future.
- Received and reviewed copy of proposed HFD budget for 2015-16. Barring any unforeseeable impacts (I.e. injuries or events) the budget is at present ‘slightly above’ average and the Chief monitors it weekly.
- Discussion and consideration of add to Staff for Lieutenant and/or Deputy (2nd in command at HFD), to address ongoing fire prevention and inspections within the town.
- Additions or room reconfiguration ideas within the current station.
- Concerns with the floor drainage repair from the garage were discussed. The Chief has had discussions with our town engineer (Al Hanscom) on this matter.
Overall, the ongoing communications in the capacity of acting liaison to this department has been a positive and educational experience. I support the continuation of this effort and recommend its continuation and future existence as an available role for all Board of Selectman members.
I would also entertain the idea of expanding the role on a rotational basis (i.e. quarterly, bi-annual, annually) – that allows each BOS member to take part in understanding the important activities, concerns and functions within each Hanson department.
This update is respectfully submitted by Selectman James McGahan.
Highway Department – Mr. Howard indicated that he met with Mr. San Angelo, Highway Surveyor Bob Brown and Dave Hanlon to discuss the snow plow contractors to insure that all the contractors are in compliance with conflict of interest laws.
Mr. Mitchell recused himself from the discussion.
Mr. San Angelo indicated that Mr. Mitchell has been a snowplow contractor and since his election to the Board, he will withdraw his contract with the Town for snowplowing.
Mr. San Angelo reported in accordance with the Conflict of Interest Laws, three other employees require the approval of the Board to plow for the Town. The employees are Jeffrey McKinnon, Charles Baker and Alan Dias.
MOTION by Howard, second by McGahan to approve the Jeffrey McKinnon, Charles Baker and Alan Dias as snow plow drivers. Voted 4 – 0 (Mitchell abstained).
Mr. San Angelo thanked Mr. Scott and Mr. Howard for their assistance in reviewing the snow plow contractors’ list. Mr. San Angelo recommended that the Board vote to approve the snow plow contractors who have no conflict issues which includes Brendan iguier,Sandra Arena, Kevin Black, Shawn Bradey, Ed Burrill, Keith Carrico, Jason Cook, Scott Crawford, Peter Daley, Gerald Davis, Brian Farrell, Doris Ghilardi, Richard Harris, Gordon Hawes, George Lewis, Pamela Monroe, PA Landers, Inc., Larry Runey, Donald Sawler, Silverado Construction, AE Wood, Jason Worden, Peter Warmington, Gallant Grader Service.
MOTION by Howard second by McGahan to approve the following snow plow contactors and to give the Highway Surveyor the authority to approve additional contractors on an emergency bases as needed. Voted 4 – 0 (Mitchell abstained)
Dept. Reports
Highway Surveyor – Robert Brown reported that there have been 14 emergency tree removals due to the recent weather. Mr. Brown will be submitting an article for an additional $15,000 for emergency tree removal. The tree removal budget line is in a deficit. He indicated that National Grid has been very helpful in removing hazardous trees.
Personnel is fully staffed. He noted that with the exception of the loader, the equipment is in good shape. The loader is a 2005 and they generally last about 15 years. He has had to make several repairs. He expects to keep the loaders for at least one more year. The F150 Ford was put on the road in the spring. They will surplus a truck which could go to the Animal Control Officer. They took two surplus vehicles from the School Department. The 2000 trackless will be partially retired and used to plow sidewalks. Hanson Youth Baseball donated a $6,000 tractor to be used on the ball fields. Highway acquired took the 2005 ambulance and are retrofitting it as a special utility vehicle which would carry lights, pumps and other portable equipment.
Catch Basin repair is ongoing 22 repaired, four completely rebuilt. They are conducting drainage repairs with one particular project on Gorwin Drive.
Highway installed 900 feet of berm throughout the Town. They are repairing the gravel roads. Mr. Brown noted that a grader contractor was brought in and graded the south end of Town with a grader and a rolling.
Mr. Brown informed that Board that six units will be on the road for sanding and salting. In 1964 there were 4 units. When Mr. Brown started there were 5 units on the road. When plowing is required, there will be 42 units on the road.
Mr. Brown noted that a new program for sidewalk snow removal has been implemented. The Town’s machine does not fit on the sidewalks due to the telephone poles and mailboxes. He reported that AE Wood has a smaller piece of equipment which clears the sidewalks. The contractor will provide the equipment and operator.
Mr. Brown explained his plan for plowing routes. He informed that Board that two events of snow and ice funds have occurred which cost approximately $38,000. A four hour events usually costs around $10,000.
Mr. McGahan noted that the sidewalk along Holly Ridge Road looks good and complimented the Highway Department for doing the work.
Mr. Andrews asked about drainage on Squantum Avenue which is causing flooding. Mr. Brown indicated that the drains have been cleaned. He pointed out the when Route 58 was reconstructed, the pipe size was reduced into the side streets which cannot handle the flow when the rain is heavy and causes the flooding.
Mr. Amado asked that the Highway Department to take a more aggressive approach to hazard tree removal. Mr. Brown has a list and has prioritized it and will be removing several as funding permits.
Requests
Water Department – Declare 2006 Ford 350 surplus – transferring to fire department.
The Water Department forwarded a memo to the Board of Selectmen dated December 11, 2014 requesting that the 2006 ford F350 Pick up truck VIN 1FDWF31566EA59629 be declared surplus and that the Fire Department has taken the vehicle.
MOTION by Howard, second by McGahan to declare the Water Department’s 2006 Ford 350 pick up truck as surplus and to transfer it to the Fire Department. Voted 5 - 0
V OLD BUSINESS
Vote Comcast Cable License Renewal – Tabled
VI COMMITTEE REPORTS
Indian Head & Maquan School Priority Repair Committee – Chairman Young updated that Board on the status of the replacement of the Indian Head Roof and the RFQ process in selecting the contractor. The next Meeting is Wednesday at 5:30
Monponsett Pond committee – Mr. Howard indicated that the sluce way and the fish ladder are open. He noted that even though the pond was high, Brockton is not diverting due to the algae in the Monponsett Pond.
BAT Transportation – Mr. Howard read a notice as to the schedule for the BAT bus. Mr. Howard indicated that no Hanson seniors have utilized the BAT bus to date. Mr. Howard recommended that residents contact the Director of Elder Affairs to arrange a ride.
Whitman Hanson Facilities Committee – Mr. McGahan indicated that due to the heavy rains and winds as of late, there were leaks in the Middle School and Maquan School. He took a tour of the Maquan School with the principal. He also stopped by Indian Head School and toured the school to view the leaks. He also stopped by the Middle School. He did see evidence of leaks throughout the building. He has reported his findings to the school facilities manager.
He has obtained work orders relative to leaks and will be reviewing them.
Mr. Anderson asked about the complaint policy as he has a complaint against a couple of individuals. Chairman Young indicated that he would review the complaint policy.
Kimberly King referring to BAT bus, suggested getting the information to area churches for the seniors. Mr. San Angelo indicated that pass the information to the Director of Elder affairs.
Chairman Young indicated that he had a booklet relative to contracting and design engineers which would be extremely helpful to all building committee groups.
Annual License Renewals: -
Liquor Licenses:
14-58 Liquors, Inc. |
Liquor - Package Store - All Alcoholic |
470 Liberty Street |
AMDC, Inc., Tedeschi's |
Liquor - Package Store All Alcohol |
12 Monponsett St. |
Butterfield's II, LLC |
Liquor - Restaurant - All Alcoholic |
1486 Main Street |
Cahill and Driscoll, Inc., Damiens |
Liquor - Restaurant - All Alcoholic |
279 Spring Street |
Cranberry Deli & Convenience, Inc. |
Liquor - Package Store Wine & Malt |
1375 Main Street |
|
|
|
Hanson American Legion Post #226 |
Liquor - Club-All Alcoholic |
92 Robinson Street |
Hanson Athletic Association |
Liquor - Club - All alcoholic |
171 Reed Street |
Hanson Tavern |
Liquor - Restaurant - All Alcoholic |
278 Main Street |
House of Pizza |
Liquor - Restaurant-Wine & Malt |
309 Main Street |
|
|
|
Myette's Country Store |
Liquor - Package Store Wine & Malt |
156 Liberty St. |
Olde Hitching Post Restaurant |
Liquor - Restaurant - All Alcoholic |
48 Spring Street |
Sahiyog Corp., village Mini Mart |
Liquor - Package Store -All Alcoholic |
911 Main Street |
Venus III Bros., Inc. |
Liquor - Restaurant - All Alcoholic |
252 Main Street |
MOTION by Howard second by McGahan to approve the liquor licenses renewals as presented Voted 5 – 0
Common Victuallers:
AMDC, Inc. |
Common Victualer’s |
12 Monponsett Street |
Butterfield's II, LLC |
Common Victualer’s |
1486 Main Street |
Cahill and Driscoll, Inc., Damiens |
Common Victualler's |
279 Spring Street |
Connie's Restaurant |
Common Victualler's |
270 Main Street |
Cranberry Deli & Convenience, Inc. |
Common Victualler's |
1375 Main Street |
Dunkin Donuts |
Common Victualler's |
487 Liberty St. |
Dunkin Donuts |
Common Victualler's |
1120 Main Street |
|
|
|
Hanson American Legion Post #226 |
Common Victualler's |
92 Robinson Street |
Hanson Athletic Association |
Common Victualler's |
171 Reed Street |
Hanson Bowladrome |
Common Victualler's |
171 Reed Street |
Hanson Gold Corp, Golden Roll |
Common Victualler's |
470 Liberty Street |
Hanson Tavern |
Common Victualler's |
278 Main Street |
Hess Corporation |
Common Victualler's |
318 Main Street |
House of Pizza |
Common Victualler's |
309 Main Street |
McDonald’s |
Common Victuallers |
318 Liberty Street |
Mo’s Restaurant |
Common Victualler's |
1357 Main Street |
Olde Hitching Post Restaurant |
Common Victualler's |
48 Spring Street |
Sahiyog Corp., Village Mini Mart |
Common Victuallers |
911 Main Street |
Sandy's Coffee Corner |
Common Victualler's |
12 Monponsett St. |
Shaws Supermarkets |
Common Victualler's |
476 Liberty Street |
Spiro's II |
Common Victualler's |
1064 Main St. |
The Cafe Deli |
Common Victualler's |
1280 Main Street |
Venus III Bros., Inc. |
Common Victualler's |
252 Main Street |
MOTION by Howard second by McGahan to approve the common victuallers licenses renewals as presented Voted 5 – 0
Automatic Amusements:
Cahill and Driscoll, Inc., Damiens |
Automatic Amusement |
279 Spring Street |
Hanson American Legion Post #226 |
Automatic Amusement |
92 Robinson Street |
Venus III Bros., Inc |
Automatic Amusement |
252 Main Street |
MOTION by Howard second by McGahan to approve the automatic amusement licenses renewals as presented Voted 5 – 0
Live Entertainment:
Butterfield's II, LLC |
Live Entertainment |
1486 Main Street |
Cahill and Driscoll, Inc., Damiens |
Live Entertainment |
279 Spring Street |
Olde Hitching Post Restaurant |
Live Entertainment |
48 Spring Street |
Venus III Bros., Inc. |
Live Entertainment |
252 Main Street |
MOTION by Howard second by McGahan to approve the live entertainment licenses renewals as presented Voted 5 – 0
Sunday Entertainment:
Butterfield's II, LLC |
Sunday Entertainment |
1486 Main Street |
Cahill and Driscoll, Inc., Damiens |
Sunday License |
279 Spring Street |
|
|
|
Hanson Athletic Association |
Sunday License |
171 Reed Street |
Hanson Tavern |
Sunday License |
278 Main Street |
Venus III Bros., Inc. |
Sunday License |
252 Main Street |
MOTION by Howard second by McGahan to approve the Sunday Entertainment licenses renewals as presented Voted 5 – 0
Livery/Taxi: -
Lifts by Luke |
Livery License |
391 Liberty Street |
MOTION by Howard second by McGahan to approve the Livery license renewal as presented Voted 5 – 0
Lodging House:
Hanson Country Manor |
Lodging House License |
748 Whitman Street |
MOTION by Howard second by McGahan to approve the Lodging House license renewal as presented Voted 5 – 0
Class II:
Signature Auto Sales Class II 19 Mattakeesett Street
Specialty Auto Class II 204 Liberty Street
Wheels-N-Deals Class II 875 Monponsett Street
McMeads Auto Class II 437 East Washington Street
MOTION by Howard second by McGahan to approve the Class II license renewals as presented Voted 5 – 0
Chairman Young noted that he will be attending a event at the Mockingbird Restaurant regarding the “Yes on Question 1” initiative.
VII ADJOURNMENT
~
MOTION by Howard second by McGahan to adjourn. Voted 5 – 0
8:51 p.m. Meeting Adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Meredith Marini,
Executive Assistant
Approved and Voted 4 – 0
January 20, 2015
| 
