Town of Princeton, Mass. – Jan. 26, 2016 – 5 pm
Meeting Minutes - PBMLP
5:05 PM Meeting opened with PBMLP members Stan Moss, chair, Edith Morgan, Jon Fudeman and T.A. Nina Nazarian, Phil Leaman and John Kowaleski in attendance along with Steve Cullen and Advisory Board members Jim O’Coin; John Shipman and Wayne Adams.
Jon F. brought up history of Princeton’s failed capital projects including wind turbines—twice—and the WiFi poles for internet, as using up taxpayer funds that have incurred outstanding debt. He cited that there is support for Mark Ayotte, owner of Ayacht Technology Solutions which operates the WiFi system in town. Ayotte has invested $300,000 recently in upgrades and service may be improving. Assessor Helen Townsend asked why the PBMLP wasn’t included in a number of past discussions with Ayotte. Jon indicated that the PBMLP didn’t indicate interest in such communication.
Discussion moved to technological upgrades on the Ayacht system which can deliver 40 – 50 MB/sec. only to certain areas and 20 – 25 promised for other areas. Bill Dino noted that the FCC definition for “broadband” is at least 25 MB. Ayacht has the fiber backhaul at the mountain and at PMLD; Steve Cullen reported that Ayotte is investing in system upgrades no matter what, but it’s only at 8 – 20 MB. Hubbardston Road resident Claire Golding said that due to the overwhelming vote at ATM it’s the PBMLP’s responsibility to move ahead with fiber/broadband.
Group noted pros and cons of a potential cooperative effort with Ayacht, integrating the infrastructures, but state law is an impediment. Stan described his own service from Ayacht as dismal, basically dial-up speed. He also noted that the failed capital projects were ordered by former PMLD commissioners, not the selectmen, and that his board’s job was to put the broadband project before the voters who will make the ultimate decision. He outlined the marketing efforts so far, and several steps that must be taken before a town vote on financing.
Jon stated that the vote at ATM is a big risk. He is concerned about Ayacht’s potential and he hears both sides of the argument from voters. Stan said the selectmen always take articles to ATM that have been thoroughly vetted and the board is confident about them. The group, especially John K. and Phil L. have put together a comprehensive plan, and all are aware that Ayacht is moving forward no matter what. Stan asked that the subject of Ayacht be placed on the agenda in two weeks.
5:50 PM Nina reported that the asst. manager position has received a number of applications. A screening committee for the applications can be Nina, Stan and Wayne Adams and they agreed to share info as it comes in with the rest of the broadband group. John L. reported on pole progress, and Phil L. reported that the equipment huts are being delivered to the DPW yard on Wednesday.
The board voted all in favor to approve minutes of Jan. 19. Nina reported that communications continue with Atty. Ferriter, the PBMLP legal counsel.
5:55 PM The board voted all in favor to expand executive session participants to include: Steve C., Jim O., John S., Wayne A., John K. and Phil L. and the newest members signed non-disclosure forms.
6:05 PM PBMLP Board voted to go into executive session: Edith made motion “To go into executive session under the provision of Ch. 30A, Sect. 21, Exemption 10, To discuss trade secrets or confidential, competitively sensitive or other proprietary information, if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the public body and to adjourn from executive session and not re-open regular session.” and Jon F. seconded the motion. Stan M.. called for a vote and in roll call Edith voted “Aye,” Jon Voted “Aye” and Stan voted “Aye.”
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Respectfully submitted, Marie N. Auger, administrative assistant
Marie Auger
Administrative Assistant
Planning Department
978-464-2100
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