Minutes
Selectmen’s Budget Workshop
November 22, 2005
8:00 AM Chair Netishen opened the meeting.
Members: Bill Netishen, Peter Bock, Mary Bonser and Town Administrator Charles A. Brown.
Guests: Heidi Carlson, Jay Starr and John Fernald.
The Board reviewed the Fire/Rescue Department budget. Deputy Chief Heidi Carlson went over the budget line by line. She explained the stipend line for Mr. Bock’s benefit.
Discussion followed concerning breathing apparatus. The training line varies since the number varies from year to year. Ms. Bonser asked if the Fire Department is evaluated on a regular basis. Only by themselves, certifications are maintained as needed. No one was sure if this type of service is available at no cost.
Ms. Carlson explained the Protective Gear issues and needs.
Vaccinations/testing – re-testing and vaccinations for next year.
Vehicle Maintenance - $10,000. The Board asked about planned maintenance projects and if anything should be placed in the CIP. Discussion began regarding communication/ radios.
Ms. Bonser feels all the departments should be using the same digital units. Funds have not been available through the State or Homeland Security to help this effort. The Board should have a meeting with the Emergency Management Director. Mr. Brown will put this on a future agenda.
The Board discussed the forest fire line and got an explanation of the matching grant process.
Ms. Carlson and Mr. Starr left.
9:00 AM Road Agent John Fernald spoke to the Board next.
He informed the Board that salt was currently at $43.73 per ton.
Mr. Bock asked about the life of the sand pit to supply sand for all purposes. Mr. Fernald responded 10-20 years. Mr. Bock then asked if we should looking ahead to the future for sand supplies. Mr. Fernald said we should not have to worry for 10-12 years. Much discussion followed.
In the uniform line, additional coveralls are needed. The anticipated cost for uniforms is $2,300.
Concerning fuel costs, Mr. Brown reviewed actual usage from the prior 12 months and used $2.35 per gallon to estimate 2006 costs.
Mr. Fernald explained the equipment parts line.
Highway Construction/Reconstruction is estimated at $175,250. Mr. Fernald is hoping pavement will price out at $41.- 44. per ton. The different rentals that are required are estimated at $4,500 – 5,000 per month. Gebig Road will require much extra work because much old material must be hauled away. Much discussion followed regarding the possible widening of some of the road. Mr. Fernald will contact the property owners to keep everyone aware of the planned work.
The Shim & Seal line was discussed next. Mr. Fernald’s narrative was reviewed in more detail.
The amount of traffic on roads is a big factor in the usable life and the amount of maintenance required. Mr. Fernald continued with his explanation of shim & seal and the effect of traffic and how it relates to the thickness of the material applied.
Concerning the Swan Lane project, Mr. Fernald will consider doing the project but it needs much up front planning. First a Wetlands Scientist must be consulted and then a survey and preliminary engineering must be done. There are many issues surrounding this project. An engineering review of the whole area needs to be done. This will hopefully give us a better idea of other drainage issues in this area The Board will take this under advisement.
Next, the Garrison Place non-suit issue was discussed. The Board will discuss this with counsel.
The Board reviewed requests for bond reduction and release.
Motion: Bonser, second Bock to release the Letter of Credit for Graystone in the amount of $29,849.58 to zero.
Vote: 3-0 in favor.
Motion: Bonser, second Bock to release the Letter of Credit for Berry Road Realty Trust #8380060083F-LC in the amount of $145,146.45 to zero.
Vote: 3-0 in favor.
Motion: Bonser, second Bock to reduce the Letter of Credit for Berry Road Realty Trust #83800600-05-LC from $67,433.50 down to $61,415.
Vote: 3-0 in favor.
Motion: Bonser, second Bock to reduce the Letter of Credit for Berry Road Realty Trust #0192894-83014905LC from $197,926.56 down to $108,934.74.
Vote: 3-0 in favor.
Motion: Bonser, second Bock to reduce the Letter of Credit for Berry Road Realty Trust #8380060083H-LC from $262,530.35 down to $226,003.46.
Vote: 3-0 in favor.
11:10 AM Having no further business before the Board
Motion: Netishen, second Bock to adjourn.
Vote: 3-0 in favor.
Respectfully Submitted,
Charles A. Brown
Town Administrator
Approved as written
12/27/05
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