MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC POWER ADVISORY BOARD
Minutes
December 6, 2005
HMLD Meeting Room 7:00 p.m.
Members present: Chairman Robert Hamer, and Members David Cotton, Donna Fitch, Peter Liddy, Thomas Runstrom, and John Shepherd.
Also present: Joseph Sullivan, Chairman, Board of Selectmen, Selectman Kim Ferguson, Selectman Ken O'Brien, Brian Bullock, Town/ Light Manager, Jacquelyn Kelly, Assistant Town Manager, Gary Harrington, Superintendent, Diane Mero, Utility Specialist, and Margaret Donaldson, Office Manager.
Approval of Minutes
On a motion by Mr. Runstrom, seconded by Mr. Cotton, the minutes of September 27, 2005 were approved as written.
2006 Proposed HMLD Budget
After a PowerPoint presentation by HMLD staff, there was a lengthy discussion concerning the rapidly increasing cost of power and the possibility of a further PCA increase in April 2006. Other significant changes in the proposed budget are:
· The addition of a .5 FTE tree-trimmer position
· The addition of a FT financial analyst
· Capital Budget: 1) the Wachusett Street re-conductor project, 2) the fiber optic cable extension, and 3) the purchase of a replacement for Truck #21
The final budget will be submitted to the Board of Selectmen in January, 2006 for approval.
Update on Substation Project
Mr. Harrington went over the status of the substation project. Major equipment will be ordered in January 2006, construction will begin in July of 2006, and the project is expected to be completed and on-line by November, 2006.
HMLD Succession Plan
Selectman Ferguson asked the Light Board, on behalf of Selectman White, to consider developing a succession plan, in the event that the Town/Light Manager retires. The Light Board took the matter under consideration and will respond to the inquiry as soon as possible.
Other Business
Selectman Ferguson expressed her continuing interest in a peak-shaving program. Selectman O'Brien discussed Sterling's Christmas light contest.
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned by consensus at approximately 8:50 p.m.
Prepared by:
Jacquelyn Kelly
Assistant Town Manager
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