Minutes of Meeting – October 27, 2010; meeting called to order at 7:00 pm.
Present: L Messana; KR Flynn; J McNinch; D Trancynger. Absent: K Fowler.
Citizen’s Open Forum: Sharon Hawkes gave an update on activities at the Library.
MOTION by LM, seconded by DT to accept the Minutes of October 13 as presented. 4/0 vote.
Michael Fieldman and Rob Akroyd appeared before the Board to discuss a project that Mr. Fieldman would like to build in memory of his son Jordan. The project would consist of renovating the overlook area that served as the front yard of the former Aspenwell Hotel. There would be an elegant design complementing the prime purpose of the space – the views. There would be a small memorial plaque and a granite walkway set flush with the ground for easy mowing. The Kennedy Park Committee has given their whole hearted endorsement to the project. Work would be done this fall or next spring. MOTION by LM, seconded by DT to approve of this project as presented. 4/0 vote. The Board thanked Mr. Fieldman for his generosity and a fitting tribute to an extraordinary young man.
The Audubon Society appeared before the Board to discuss efforts with the ConCom to obtain a $15,000 grant from the US Forest Department to work on the eradication of the invasive hardy kiwi in Kennedy Park. Hand pulling will be done in less infested areas. A herbicide would be used in heavy infestation, but it does not linger, and the area would be posted. It is the largest infestation known in the state. It spreads from the wildlife eating fruit, which in turns spreads the seeds. It can grow up to 15 feet in a year, bringing down trees with its weight. Both the ConCom and Kennedy Park Committee agree with this work. MOTION by LM, seconded by DT to approve moving forward with this project. 4/0 vote.
The Board reviewed the proposed new 10-year lease with the Lenox Children’s Center. It calls for an annual rent of $17,400 for the first five years, and $20,000 for the remaining five years. They would be responsible for all repairs/capital expenses under $5000 annually, as well as all utilities. The agreement also includes an option to renew for a second ten-year term at rental rates to be determined. MOTION by LM, seconded by DT to approve the new LCC rental agreement as presented. 4/0 vote.
The BRTA is seeking permission to install a bus shelter on Town land next to Tanner’s Market in the Dale. The shelter would be identical to those on Route 7 & 20 and to the ones proposed for Main and Franklin Streets. MOTION by LM, seconded by JM to approve the installation of a bus shelter on Town land located next to Tanner’s Market in the Dale. 3/1 vote with LM opposed.
Annual License Renewals: The Board reviewed the process involved in the annual license renewals. They feel that it is very important to set firm dates for the return of all necessary renewal paperwork. If deadlines are not met, licensees will be required to re-apply for a new license. The Board would like to pursue a late filing fine at the upcoming ATM.
The Board discussed their desire to send out a Citizen’s Survey with the November water and sewer bills. They are seeking input from residents as to how government is doing and what department/work is most important to them. The survey will also be on-line, at the Town Offices and at the election.
Sewer Rates: When the Board set the sewer rates back in March, they approved a 9% increase, to be reviewed in six months. Unfortunately, the financial picture has not improved, and it is necessary to increase the sewer rate an additional 5% points for a total of 14% to $6.90 per 1000 gallons. This new rate would apply to usage dating back to last May. MOTION by LM, seconded by DT to increase the sewer rate to $6.90/1000 gals. for a total increase of 14%, effective May 2010. 3/1 vote with JM opposed.
Consent Agenda items: MOTION by LM, seconded by JM to approve a one-day W&M license for Ventfort Hall on 11/13 form 7-10pm. 4/0 vote. Old/New Business: JM stated that he would like to see the Economic Development Committee focus on long-term business growth. LM informed the Board that the bullying committee is making good progress; she continues to receive calls about horse droppings in Kennedy Park; she and Dia will be going down to the school next Tuesday during lunch as part of their once-a-month visit; she suggested that the Board hold a meeting at the school and invite the students to attend. KRF gave a brief update on the gazebo fundraising strategies to date. She mentioned that the Board held a retreat a few weeks ago. One major item that was discussed was the streamlining of
operations. Meeting adjourned at 7:45 pm.
Minutes Taken By: ______________________ Minutes Accepted By: ______________________
Mary Ellen Deming Clerk
Director of Administrative Services Board of Selectmen
_________________________
Mary Ellen Deming
Director of Administrative Services
Town Hall - 6 Walker Street
Lenox, MA 01240
phone: (413) 637-5500
fax: (413) 637-5518
_________________________
| 
