Meeting Minutes--
Minutes Accepted and filed with the Town Clerk on-------------------------------------- _4/21/2009__ by a vote ------_ 4-0__
7:00 p.m. – April 7, 2009
Sutton Town Hall, Selectmen’s Meeting Room
Members in Attendance:
Michael Chizy, Chairman; John Hebert Vice-Chairman; Richard Hersom, Clerk; Ryan Fattman, Member
Also in Attendance: James Smith, Town Administrator; Debbie Jacques, Administrative Secretary
Chairman Chizy calls the meeting to order at 7:00 followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
No comments under Public Forum.
Selectman Hersom motions to approve March 17, 2009 minutes as presented, Selectman Fattman seconds, passes 4-0
Selectman Fattman motions to approve but not release Executive Session Minutes from March 17, 2009, Selectman Hersom seconds, passes 4-0
Nomination of Donna Rossio to the Sutton Historical Commission: The BOS welcome Donna Rossio back to the Historical Commission. Donna was a prior member and decided to volunteer again. After a brief discussion, Selectman Hersom motions to appoint Donna Rossio to the Sutton Historical Commission, Selectman Fattman seconds all in favor passes 4-0
FY2010 Final Budget power point presentation: TA Smith presents a balanced budget to the Board. The previous proposed budget showed a gap of $65,000.00, TA Smith was able to close the gap and present a level funded, balanced budget which will be presented at the May Town Meeting. TA Smith notes that there are still moving pieces as there has been a delay in the final numbers from the State which could result in some changes. The total FY2010 is $25,798,781. To balance this budget, the average reduction to town departments was 5%. Debt Exclusions include $800,000. for the Early Learning Center Roof and $875,000.00 to replace Engine 4. Also on the Warrant is the vote to sell the Town Gravel Pit on Hatchery Road. Selectman Fattman feels it is wise that TA Smith did not reduce the Public Safety budget; Ryan also asked who carries the
unemployment for the school. TA Smith replies the town side. Selectman Fattman goes on to comment on his disappointment of the teachers union not agreeing with concessions regarding their increases which amount to raises of 6 ½ to 7%. Selectman Hebert thanks Jim for the great job on the budget as well as applauding the Department Heads for coming together in this difficult economic time. John goes on to say he is happy to see the Public Safety budget not affected as there has been an increase in domestic and alcohol related calls. John also mentions the need for a ladder truck in town. Selectman Hersom offers a sincere thanks to Department Heads for foregoing their raises. Rick reiterates his concern over the increase of salaries and the budget process. He feels it is time for fiscal reform. Selectman Chizy offers thanks to the Department Heads and TA Smith for going without increases as well as commenting on the well done budget prepared by Jim. Mike also comments
on the importance of a ladder truck for the Town of Sutton.
Economic Development Council Update: TA Smith discusses with the BOS his recent meeting with Mr. Joseph Deliso from the Blackstone Valley Regional Economic Development Council. Seven communities are needed for this council; Sutton would be the 6th at this point. Jims general opinion is that if we could join now and delay the payment ($1.00 per resident roughly $9,500.00 yrly.) until next year. This would be a test run for Sutton to evaluate before we make a monetary commitment. Selectman Fattman feels this makes sense and says Jim’s judgment is spot on. Selectman Hebert says this is a good thing and feels Jims approach is prudent. Selectman Hersom and Chizy both echo all sentiments expressed. TA Smith at this time informs BOS that the Board will have to elect someone to represent the town. Selectman Fattman
motions to participate in the Blackstone Valley Regional Economic Development Council but delay funding for one year at which point reevaluate, Selectman Hebert seconds the motion all in favor passes 4-0
Town Administrator Update:
- Recycling Rate: Jim informs the Board that the recycling rate of 13% noted in the T&G for Sutton was the curbside pick up. The Transfer Station has a recycling rate of 44%
- 16 Uxbridge Road 61A 1st right of refusal: Will be a Public Hearing at May 5th meeting
- Early Learning Center Roof: Russo Bar retained to design. Will be before the Spring Town Meeting.
- MORE Grant: all have signed the MOU, Graves Eng. Retained as Project Manager.
- Telephone System in Town Hall: covered as a capital article 2 years ago. Going from copper to T1 line.
- Converted Organics (Organic Fertilizer): T&G posted article saying they were coming into Sutton, they have not filed as of yet, tentative concerns will be addressed if plans move forward.
- Gravel Pit: RFP ready, bids due May 8th, minimum bid is 2 million dollars.
- Review of 3 meetings in Boston: Common Cause Award, status of Bike path and status of Manchuag Pond
Selectmens Roundtable:
Selectman Chizy: update on Tri Centennial Park, very pleased with progress
8:25 p.m.
Selectman Hersom moves that the Board enter into Executive Session to discuss Collective Bargaining under M.G.L. Chapter 39, S.23B #3, with the intention of returning back to open session for the purpose of adjournment, Selectman Fattman seconds all in favor passes 4-0
Selectman Fattman motions to adjourn the meeting, Selectman Hersom seconds the motion all in favor 4-0
Meeting adjourned 9:10 p.m.
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