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Board of Selectmen
2005 Minutes of Meetings
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Board of Selectmen |
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2005 Minutes of Meetings |
Meetings of the Board of Selectmen usually take place Tuesday evenings at 6:15pm in the Town Hall (but not always every week), and their agenda are usually made available on the preceding Friday. As soon as the agenda is released by the Selectmen's office, it is posted in the Town Hall, Post Office, Tucker Free Library, and this web page - see Agenda. All minutes below have been approved by the Board of Selectmen.
| Available Meeting Minutes |
APPROVED
Meeting of December 8th, 2005
Town Hall
Present: Town Administrator, Peter Flynn, Selectmen, Rod Pimentel, Cordell Johnston, Tom Watman, Cheryl Morse, and Ron Lavallee.
Also Present: Stephany Lavallee and Leo Aucoin, (as observers.)
5:35 p.m.- The meeting was called to order by Chairman Rod Pimentel.
Rod Pimentel said that the purpose of the meeting was to review budgets to see what possible cuts could be made this year.
Cordell Johnston said that he thought the Board should set a goal amount for the budget. He said that the Board should try to at least make a 0 % increase.
Rod Pimentel asked about the previous year, and what the Board had set the tax rate at before tax evaluations. He asked if Peter Flynn had that information.
Peter Flynn replied that he could probably find that information.
Ron Lavallee stated that he had spoken with and asked the school board to do budget cuts as well as the Board. He said that the people are just not happy with the taxes, and the only way to appease the community is to work together with the School Board.
Rod Pimentel said the tax rate should have been $5.99 not $6.32
Peter Flynn said that it was because of revenues.
Peter Flynn said that the Board should expect a few less dollars in automobile registration fees. Also, other revenues we didn’t realize, was the sale of St. Theresa’s church.
Ron Lavallee said that he thought there were some big items budgeted for, that obviously cannot be purchased this year. He suggested not raising the cost of living at all.
He also made a note that the raises are going up a step in 2006.
Peter Flynn said that the Police Department is on the State Police level, so the Board cannot cut their wages.
Rod Pimentel said that the Board should suggest the Police Department to at least cut their budget in half.
Cordell Johnston made the first nomination for a possible budget cut. He said that the Fire department’s budget for $200,000.00 for equipment and the ladder truck could wait for now. Cheryl Morse agreed with Cordell Johnston.
Ron Lavallee said that the main reason that it is so divisive would be the fact that the Town of Henniker has a mutual aide with three surrounding towns that have trucks already, which means that we have no need for one at this point in time.
Rod Pimentel said that he would put it on the list, but it needed to be discussed with Chief Gilbert and Chief French.
Tom Watman said that the Board should make a list of possible cuts to bring before the budget committee.
Ron Lavallee said that the Board should have this list by the Tuesday December 13th meeting. He said that the department heads should come to the meeting to defend their budgets.
There was a discussion about what the Board should cut after reviewing the budget sheets. The Board came up with a list of possible budget cuts to bring to the meeting on Tuesday December 13th.
Police Facility Improvements-
Paper Mill Site-
APPROVED
Meeting of December 6th, 2005
Town Hall
Present: Town Administrator, Peter Flynn, Selectmen, Rod Pimentel, Cordell Johnston, Tom Watman, Cheryl Morse, and Ron Lavallee.
Also Present: Stephany Lavalle, Kim Johnson, Bob Pennock, Jeremy Soulliere, Cari Hamel, Brian Wilcox, Gail Abramowicz, Cynthia Marsland, Scott Osgood, Cynthia Mosley, Tom French, Keith Gilbert, Alan Brown, Peter Robicheaud, Leon Parker, Leo Audioy, and Carl Hamel.
6:15 pm Pledge of Allegiance was said.
Motion by Tom Watman to approve the signed Consent Agenda. Ron Lavallee seconded. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
PUBLIC FORUM:
Carl stated that he was upset because the people with smaller homes had to pay more than those with larger estates. He said he was dissatisfied with the way things were being done.
The Board thanked Karl.
Stephany Lavallee said that she heard that the city of Concord and DAS would be dumping their waste into the Contoocook River. She asked the Board if they had heard about that. Peter Flynn said he was not aware of that.
Stephany also made a comment about the Avian Flu, and asked what Henniker’s plan was. Peter Flynn replied saying that he was unsure what was going on, but that they would have a plan. He also said that the town was prepared, but he would have to look some things up.
ITEM 1:
Alan Brown RE: Bellulah Brown Fund.
Alan came to request the Board to accept an amount of money for a scholarship in the name of his mother Bellulah Brown.
Rod Pimentel said that he really appreciated this act of generosity.
Alan said thank you, and he also requested that the Board accept future additions to the total sum. He said that the requirements for the student receiving the scholarship would be:
Alan said that the scholarship is actually not given to the college that the student attends, but it goes to the student for supplies, such as a computer or books.
Cheryl Morse made a MOTION to accept the scholarship, and future additions with gratitude. Tom Watman seconded. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
ITEM 2:
Elderly and Disability Exemptions.
Cynthia Marsland said that the new evaluations came in and she had forgotten to put in the exemptions. She said that what she was presenting to the board was just a correction of the exemptions list.
Cordell Johnston asked Cynthia if what the Board was giving to them was what they were entitled to.
Cynthia replied yes, and that it wasn’t something not already budgeted. It was her mistake for not putting them in.
Tom Watman made a MOTION to grant the elderly the abatements. Rod Pimentel seconded. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
ITEM 3:
Kim Johnson RE: Tax Collector hours of operation
Kim started off by saying that at the previous meeting, when she was not present, there were a lot of things said that was untrue. She said that she felt attacked.
Kim said that they had just hired a third person, to make up for Gail’s time lost. She said that her hours were going to change, and she would be open more. She read off her list of tentative hours.
Monday- 8 am to 5:30 pm
Tuesday- 8 am to 4: 30 pm
Wednesday- 8 am to 4:30
Thursday- Closed
Friday 8 am- 4:30 pm
Last Saturday of the month- 12 pm- 4:30 pm
Sunday- Closed
Cheryl Morse said that one of the citizen’s concerns was that the one Saturday that Kim’s office was supposed to be open last month, it was closed. There was no apparent reason for the office to have been closed.
Kim said that she is open many days, when people don’t even know it. She said that she needs her quiet time to get her job done too. She said that she didn’t mind being interrupted, because it is her job, but she has other work in need of attention as well. She also said that her office was closed because of the move. Kim said that she sees maybe four people in her office on Saturdays.
Cheryl said that although there are few, it is still just as important to them, for the office to be open. She said that Saturday might be the only day for them to be able to get their business done.
Ron Lavallee asked Kim when her new hours would start. Kim said in January. Ron Lavallee also asked if there were two or three people in there at a time, and if they were part time.
Kim said that there are two on average, and the other two are part-timers. Ron Lavallee asked about her lunch hours. Kim said that they are usually 12pm-1pm, but most of the time she doesn’t get a full lunch hour because she has to run errands as well.
Ron Lavallee explained to Kim the complaints that had been brought to the Board’s attention. He said that mainly they all had to do with Customer Service. He said that there needed to be much more structure to the hours and business matters.
Tom Watman said that he made a motion at the last meeting to find out if the accusations and assumptions were correct. He said that it seemed as though people can’t get the hours that they need. He said that there does need to be a firm schedule that is accommodating to townspeople who might work farther away. Most people don’t get out of work until 4:30 or 5 pm, so they have no chance to get their business done after work. Tom also stated that something should be done about missing personnel. He said that he understands that Gail was having medical problems but the work still needs to be done. He asked Kim to consider hiring a temporary employee. Tom Watman told Kim that she does good work, and the board was not questioning that. He said that she needs to be more sensitive to the fact that people are relying on her to have accommodating hours.
Rod Pimentel said that people need to be able to get into the office at noontime, and there’s no reason to be closed. He said that also, maybe even one night a week that the office should be open later. Kim contested that remark with the fact that she was not comfortable with security issues.
Cordell Johnston said that no one was trying to make Kim do anything, but they were trying to give her suggestions so that everyone in the situation would be happy.
Ron Lavallee said to Kim that it doesn’t matter if she doesn’t want to change the way she’s handling things. Her job is to the townspeople, so maybe she should think about being more positive towards suggestions, instead of being negative to every alternative that’s given.
Tom Watman said that Kim needed to be able to compromise and create structure.
The Board thanked Kim Johnson.
ITEM 4: Budget Reviews
Scott Osgood RE: Planning Board
Total estimated budget was $40,369.00
Total expense was $31,961.19
Tom Watman suggested that the Board should inform all the Department heads to look at their budgets and see what they could possibly hold off on for a year.
Bob Pennock stated that he didn’t believe it to be fair to request cuts so close to the budget review.
Cheryl Morse said that she felt that the department heads would have plenty of time to decide what they can cut for a year.
The Board thanked Scott Osgood.
Leo Aucoin, RE: ZBA- Zoning Board
Total estimated budget was $3,200.00
Total expense $1,512.05
Cheryl Morse said that she was surprised that the budget amount used was so low. Leon said that it was because the Board doesn’t do a lot of business.
The Board thanked Leo Aucoin.
Chief Keith Gilbert and Chief Tom French, RE: Fire/Rescue Departments Combined
Total estimated budget was $383,118.00
Total expense was $219,964.29
Rod Pimentel asked the two chiefs if they had a line-by-line synopsis of their spending. Cheryl Morse pointed out that Rescue did.
Rod Pimentel asked Chief Gilbert if he needed a new roof. Chief Gilbert replied no, but he said he did need a paint job. He said the roof was only eleven years old.
Chief Tom French, RE: Rescue Department
Chief Gilbert said that before the Board asked, the substantial increase in equipment was due to the Fire Department as well. They split the cost half and half.
Cheryl Morse asked if there were any recover costs from the old equipment. Chief French said only a little. He said only a couple thousand.
More of the budget was reviewed.
Cheryl Morse asked if the Henniker paramedics were needed less, because she thought that she had read that somewhere. Chief French said he didn’t know, but he did say that there would be less calls because the surrounding towns all are contracted for mutual aide, and Henniker is not in those contracts.
The rescue training increased as well. Chief French said that to get good help, you have to pay for it. Chief French also said that the fuel projection costs should be right, depending if the gas prices rise beyond $2.25 per gallon.
The Board thanked Chief Tom French.
Budget reviewed
Total estimated budget was $2,150.00
Total expense was $1,728.04
Peter Flynn, RE: Elections
Budget reviewed
Total estimated budget was $6,250.00
Total expense was $7,109.48
Peter Flynn, RE: Executive
Budget reviewed
Total estimated budget was $21,083.00
Total expense was $12,479.63
Peter Flynn said that the wages went up because there was a new part time person added to them. Rod Pimentel asked if the part time person could be cross-trained for the Town tax collector’s use.
Peter Flynn said that it could be arranged.
Rod Pimentel said that the Board needed to find out if Kim Johnson would be willing to look at training another person, or even receptive to help at all.
Tom Watman made a MOTION that a proposed fee schedule is made for the community center by the New Year. Ron Lavallee seconded. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
Peter Flynn said that the Town report went up an extra $1,000.00 because last year the $8,000.00 wasn’t enough.
Ron Lavallee said that he was concerned about the mileage reports, and why Peter wasn’t filling any out for himself if everyone else was.
Peter Flynn said that he had no objections to start taking down mileage reports.
The Board thanked Peter Flynn.
ITEM 5:
Peter Flynn, RE: Updated Utility Analysis Projections for 2006
Peter Flynn said that only he and Bob Pennock have control of the thermostats now.
We have also projected the costs for fuel for the upcoming year.
ITEM 6:
Meeting minutes for November 29th, and non-public minutes for November 15th.
Cordell Johnston made a MOTION to approve and accept the minutes of November 29th.
Rod Pimentel seconded. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
Cordell Johnston made a MOTION to accept and approve the non-public minutes of November 15th. Cheryl Morse seconded. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
ITEM 7: Town Administrator’s Report
Leon Parker made a comment on how the equipment that the Fire and Rescue departments are buying, are unnecessary because they equipment they have now, is well taken care of. He said that this wasn’t the year to be buying new equipment.
Rod Pimentel said that Leon had a very good point, and that the Board would consider talking to the Chiefs about it.
Nothing new to report.
Cheryl Morse said that all budget hearings affecting Henniker tax payers should be posted in the Henniker Outlook, and that she wanted the Henniker Outlook reviewed. She said that since White Birch ceased managing it, information about many town items are no longer available and Peter Flynn stated that the volunteers who used to coordinate it, quit and the burden fell off the Town office.
Also, Cheryl Morse wanted the Board to ask the town road agent to come and meet with them in March for communication issues, as a follow –up from October.
Cheryl Morse asked if it was cost effective to plow the sidewalks by Connor’s field.
Leon Parker said that the Board should post a sign that says “ closed for the season.”
Peter Flynn said that as far as he knew, the sidewalk wasn’t supposed to be plowed.
Cheryl Morse said that there had been a Motion about getting time clocks, and was following up on that issue.
Peter Flynn said that he had already looked into it.
Tom Watman had a brief report on the historic district commission meeting. He said that the Hearse renovation proposal would not be submitted this year.
MOTION made by Tom Watman to request the Town Administrator to confer with the Town assessor, George Hildum about the Town’s assessing and taxation of RV’s. The purpose would be to determine to what extent recreational vehicles are being assessed currently; under what RSA’s local regulations, and to determine whether it is possible for Henniker to fairly assess additional manufactured housing without this category than is presently being done. The Town Administrator is also authorized to obtain the opinion of the Town’s attorney in order to confirm what legal limitations may apply to this classification of taxable property. Rod Pimentel Seconded. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
Tom Watman made a MOTION that the Town Administrator obtains data on the cost of establishing a metered sewage fee system. The investigation to include a determination of the legality of phasing a system into service, applying the metered service to only potential higher volume users, etc. Said report to be provided in writing to the Board of selectmen no later than June 1st, 2006. Rod Pimentel seconded. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
Cordell Johnston said that December 14th at 9 am there would be a meeting at the Hopkinton Town Hall regarding route 202/9 with police chief and safety issues.
Peter Flynn said that he would attend.
Cordell Johnston said that the next couple of meetings, he might not be able to attend due to personal reasons.
Rod Pimentel said that several moths ago, a list of goals and objectives for 2006 was requested before the budget hearing, but he has not received them yet.
MOTION made by Ron Lavalle that the goals and objectives for 2006 be made and given to the board by the budget hearing. Tom Watman seconded. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
Cheryl Morse made a MOTION to adjourn the meeting at 10:15 pm. Rod Pimentel seconded. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
Respectfully submitted,
Kymlee M. Murphy
Approved Minutes
Meeting of November 29, 2005
Town Hall
Present: Town Administrator, Peter Flynn, Selectmen, Cordell Johnston, Tom Watman, Cheryl Morse, and Ron Lavalee.
Also Present: Stephany Lavalee, Tracy Bruen, S.E. Forrster, Spencer Bennett, Steve Bennett, Hones McGuire, Kevin Steinbach, Rebecca Hecox, Lloyd Henderson, Joe Trier, Jeremy Soullierre, Daniel Aucoin, Ken Levesque, Vicky McClousky, Ted Parkins, Marty Davis, Scott Osgood, Ken Erickson, Tom French, Ken Heddey, Peter Robichaud, Leon Parker, Denise Rico, Tim McCormish, Linda Fish-Brown, Gene Brown, Joe Elln, and Wayne Colby, Chris ?
6:00 p.m.- The members of the Board reviewed and signed the Consent agenda.
6:15 p.m.- Pledge of Allegiance recited.
MOTION made by Ron Lavalee to approve the Consent Agenda. Seconded by Cheryl Morse. The vote was 4-0 in favor of the motion.
Public Forum:
Danny Aucoin asked the Board about the schedule of the town’s Tax Collector. He felt that she was not being supervised enough.
Cordell Johnston said that she is in an elected position, therefore is not supervised by the Board. Danny asked how that could be changed.
Cordell Johnston again replied that the Board did not appoint her.
Danny stated that the reason for his concern was because of her strange office hours. He said that it is very hard to get business done when she is closed almost all of the time. He also asked what she was being paid for if she wasn’t ever in the office.
Cheryl Morse replied saying that it is the State who is responsible for her. She is given the right to make her own hours.
Cordell Johnston stated that the only authority over her is the voters who elect her, and of course, the Town Meeting when they look at and approve her salary.
Peter Flynn stated that there had been some legitimate health issues with the Deputy Tax Collector and that had a lot to do with the scheduling as it was. Kim had to work alone for several months and it was extremely difficult.
Tom Watman said the item should be put on the agenda for the next meeting to discuss an adjustment of salary and schedule changes.
Tom Watman made a MOTION that the issue be moved on the next agenda, also that there needed to be records brought of her hours. Cheryl Morse seconded the motion. The vote was 4-0 in favor of the motion.
Rebecca Hecox asked the Board if the Abatements were looked over locally, or if they would be done in Massachusetts.
Cordell Johnston replied that they are looked after locally.
Rebecca asked about her bill, and told the Board that she had trouble deciphering the dialect.
Scott Osgood made a comment about evaluations of the land values and how they have dramatically increased. He asked how the town could go about addressing this issue of raising taxes.
Rebecca commented o how she and many others could not afford to live in Henniker anymore.
Peter Flynn said that there have been many people with the same questions all week long. He stated that nobody in the Town Hall had the expertise to advise the people on this matter. Peter Flynn Suggested that George Hildum, who is the expert on assessments, to come in and advise the people of Henniker, with their issues.
Vicki McClousky said that the Vision Appraisal wouldn’t be able to change assessments. She said that her twelve acres of land went up in value substantially, even though a lot of it is wetlands, and that two months out of the year she has to drive around the swamp that gathers in her driveway. She asked the Board if the taxes went up because she had a scenic view.
Cheryl Morse asked Vicky if she would sell her property for the amount that was assessed. Vicky argued and said that she did not want to sell her home.
Cheryl Morse said the question was theoretical, and repeated her previous question. Vicky then stated that she would sell it for the amount assessed if in fact she had been selling her home.
Cheryl Morse said that that might be a possible explanation for the increase in taxes, because of the value in the property itself, not the owner’s personal value placed on the property.
Vicky said yes that might be true, but it doesn’t change the fact that taxes are becoming unaffordable. She has lived in Henniker for a long period of time, and now she has to raise almost three thousand dollars in a month for tax purposes.
Cordell Johnston said that handling abatements is part of the contract but He’s not convinced that even if someone else were to take care of them, that it would change much.
Peter Flynn said that the tax rate would have gone up anyways, due to many budgetary and revenue factors.
Cordell Johnston was sympathetic to the concerns of the townspeople, seeing as his taxes went up a substantial amount as well. He said that the State is in control when it comes to taxes the total tax picture.
Peter Robichaud, Scott Osgood and Tim McComish both stated their issues with the rising taxes, and they felt that an explanation due.
Tom Watman made a MOTION to arrange a meeting with the Vision Appraisal group, and George Hildrum about evaluations and the public opinions. Cheryl Morse seconded the motion. The vote was 4-0 in favor of the motion.
The Board thanked the townspeople for their input and concerns.
Cheryl Morse also made a comment about so many people coming to the meeting, and how important that is to decisions being made in the town.
ITEM 1: Hearing for bill from Waste Water Company to Kevin Steinbach.
Kevin Steinbach and Ken Levesque
Cordell Johnston said that the ordinance states that multiple rooms shall be charged one unit per room or apartment. Kevin Steinbach received a bill for twelve billable units, which was a shock to him.
Kevin said that there are many applicable ordinances in his case. He was upset at the fact that although no change occurred at his building, he was charged 12 billable units, whereas last month it was only one billable unit. This made the bill go from about one hundred dollars to two thousand dollars. He said that he has no objections to paying his share, but that he wants to know what exactly he is being billed for. Also, Kevin said that maybe the ordinance is outdated, and there needed to be some change in that matter. Kevin presented the board with some information on his building and the surrounding buildings. He said his is pretty much the most empty, and one with little to none expansions. The District court is held there every Thursday and he has three tenants.
Cheryl Morse asked how many bathrooms there were. Kevin said that it was the same amount as before, five in all. Not all are active either.
Cordell Johnston said that he was convinced that something needed to be done. He said that the Board still needed information from Ken Levesque.
Ken Levesque said that the Sewer ordinance was based on the recommendations of the Federal Government and State D.E.S. and that his job is to enforce that ordinance. He said that he doesn’t believe it to be perfect, and that yes it is older, and might need changes, but he was not happy about the way that Kevin Steinbach behaved on the phone. Ken said that he couldn’t just go around creating his own rules. Ken explained that he had talked to Kevin on the phone prior to the issuing the bill, and Kevin had told him to just come over and assess the situation, because Kevin had no idea as to what information Ken needed. Ken went to the building and did his job. Ken also stated that the same is done for everyone. Kevin wasn’t the only one who received a higher bill. Ken said that there was nothing that Ken could do so he pointed him in the right direction for solving their problem. Ken also said that if the ordinance is changed, and there is less taken from business, then more would have to be taken from the residences. Ken said that his budget is his budget.
Cordell Johnston said that his impression was that if you compare it to other residential/business it is fair. Cordell Johnston said that Ken had to do his job, and it is unfortunate that it leads to an unfair result.
Kevin openly apologized to Ken Levesque for his behavior on the phone. The Board thanks him for the apology. He said that it is about the money though, not a personal basis. Kevin said that there were no additions or expansions to the building but yet he still got an increase in his bill.
Ron Lavallee made a MOTION that the billing be kept as is. Cheryl Morse seconded the motion. The vote is 3-1 In favor of the motion. Cordell Johnston said nay.
MOTION made by Cordell Johnston that the sewer ordinance be amended. Ron Lavallee seconded. The vote was 4-0 in favor of the motion.
ITEM 2: Mt. Hunger Rd.
Tom French and Spencer Bennet
Tom French made a presentation to the Board about his plans. He said that his understanding was that 35mph is in most cases the speed on main roads, unless otherwise stated. Tom said that there is a single speed limit sign stating 25mph on Mt. Hunger Rd. He also said that he and his crew analyzed the road and found that it did meet that particular speed design, on the S-turns. The top of the hill however should be about 15mph. His summary being that this type of road does not meet the criteria of a 25mph road. He said that they were asked to look at options for changing those physical conditions. Tom then presented the board with layout plans of construction he would like to do to improve the road conditions, and still meet the design speed. He said that they intend to make alignments to the road going towards Spencer Bennet’s property.
Tom Watman asked if there were going to be any changes to the other side of the wall.
Spencer said no, only to his side and that he has received approval from many town officials to do this work.
Tom Watman asked if they were looking for approval to start construction. Spencer answer was yes. The planning board has been contacted and asked questions, and they had asked us to improve the condition of the road.
Cordell Johnston asked if they were designing the road to fir the 25mph speed. They replied yes. Tom said that they are also trying to get the speed limit raised.
Peter ? said that it has nothing to do with safety, and that the fact is that the road needs to be moved. He also said that if they were going to do this to Mt. Hunger Rd. then why not all the roads in Henniker, because that’s how Henniker is. They have a lot of bumpy and winding roads.
Ted Parkins, Tracey Bruen, Gene Brown, Marty Davis and Rebecca Hecox all share there opinions on the road being moved, all coming to the same conclusion. They all think that instead of moving the road, that they should lower the speed limit to 15mph. They also said that there were nowhere near 400 cars that go by on a daily basis.
Tom French (of HTA Engineering) said that the figure of 400 cars a day was estimated, not actual car counts.
Cordell Johnston said that the objection is to changing the road, and the issue being safety, but what if nothing is done?
Scott Osgood said there are safety issues now that were never brought up before, and that there is one driveway at risk for a safety issue. The planning board actually didn’t approve because of that driveway, but because of the actual road safety issues.
Cordell asked if the Board didn’t accept then most likely the subdivision wouldn’t be approved either.
Tom Watman made a MOTION that a table action should be taken by the Board to make a decision on the road until the next two meetings. Cheryl Morse seconded. The vote was 4-0 in favor of the motion.
Tom Watman made A MOTION to ask the planning board for a response in lowering the speed limit to 15mph and making the subdivision acceptable. Tom Watman also requested HTA to look at the law and evaluate speed design.
ITEM 3: Papermill Response
Ken Erickson
Ken Erickson said that Peter Flynn received a letter from the local Government center. It basically said that the town of Henniker is covered for the mill demolition and construction process insurance wise.
Ken gave the Board the proposed warrant articles that they requested last time they looked at the Papermill presentation. Ken also said that there would be a meeting for the Gomez and Sullivan presentation on Monday the fifth of December to be held at New England College, at 7 p.m.
Ron Lavallee asked Ken if the $175,000.00 asked would be for knocking out and taking down the mill ruins, and putting in a fence.
Ken replied yes.
The Board thanked Ken Erickson.
Acting Chair, Tom Watman called a five-minute recess.
Cordell Johnston had to excuse himself from the meeting. (8:50pm)
9:00 p.m.- meeting called back to order by Tom Watman.
ITEM 4: Budget reviews
Denise Rico is here to discuss her budget for the Conservation Committee.
The estimated Conservation Committee budget was $2,180.00. The total expense was $685.00
Lynn Piotrowicz is here to discuss the library budget.
The total Library Estimated budget was $139,905.00. The total expense was $124,665.50.
Lynn requested 15 hours of library staffing, because she is short handed. She also needs to purchase new books.
Ron Lavallee asked about the $4,000.00 increase in utilities.
Lynn said that was due to PSNH in February, because they are going to raise their rates again.
The Board thanked Lynn Piotrowicz.
ITEM 5: Review and adopt minutes of November 8th, and November 15th.
Tom Watman made a MOTION to approve and accept minutes of November 8th 2005. Cheryl Morse seconded that motion. The vote was 3-0 in favor of the motion.
Tom Watman made a MOTION to approve and accept the minutes of November 15th 2005. Cheryl seconded the motion. The vote was 3-0 in favor of the motion.
ITEM 6: Town Administrator’s report
St. Theresa’s Church Sale - “ By Consensus we approve that Peter Flynn will research realtors and the selling of Catholic Church Properties.”
Mr. Flynn stated that all of the other Action Items that has any new significance were addressed earlier in the evening.
ITEM 7: Selectmen’s report
Cheryl Morse said that the road agent and the town are on different pages, and that the communication between them needs to be altered in some way. Cheryl Morse said that he should not be making decisions without the back up of the Board.
Ron Lavallee said that the Quaker /Baker sign needed to be put back up. (Sign still there but knocked down)
MOTION made by Tom Watman to adjourn the meeting. Cheryl Morse seconded the motion. The vote was 3-0 in favor of the motion.
Meeting Adjourned at 9:15pm
Respectfully submitted:
Kymlee Murphy
Approved Minutes
Meeting of November 15, 2005
The Grange
Present: Peter Flynn, Town Administrator, Selectmen Rod Pimentel, Cheryl Morse, Cordell Johnston, Tom Watman
Also Present: Dottie Kelsey, Therese Soucy, Roland Soucy, Kimberly Johnson, Bob Pennock, Jon Evans, Lucia Evans, Jeremy Soulliere, Representative Barbara French, Jason Fellows, Lauren Desmond, Shannon Camara, G. Blanchard, Jeff Lloyd, Cynthia Marsland, John Margeson, Lisa Demers – Recording Secretary.
Not Present: Ron Lavallee
6:00 p.m. Board Members reviewed and signed the Consent Agenda.
6:15 p.m. Pledge of Allegiance
Vote on Consent Agenda
Motion by Tom Watman to approve the Consent Agenda reviewed and signed by all members of the Board. Seconded by Rod Pimentel. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
Public Forum:
Representative Barbara French has salary concerns for the Town officials. She stated we need to help the town employees meet their needs; and asked if their salaries were being looked into.
Mr. Pimentel stated the new board would look into it.
Bob Pennock addressed the board asking permission to place an ad for a part time employee, with benefits, for the transfer station.
Permission granted.
Item 1: John Evans addressed the board requesting the discontinuation of Farrar Road. Mr. Evans reminded the board that Farrar Road is blocked off in the wintertime only to reopen in June or July depending on the weather conditions. The town now places sand piles on the top and bottom of the hill to prevent a through access.
Mr. Evans continued by saying this is not a two-lane road. It’s very difficult for two cars to pass at the same time; not to mention the town has a horrific time during the winter plowing this road. They are constantly getting stuck. If the town discontinues the use of Farrar Road to through traffic, making it a private road, the owners would take the responsibility of maintaining the road and making sure there is access to the power lines for public works. The benefit to the town would be lowering their budget.
Mr. Evans also continued by stating this would not affect the town’s police or fire departments from getting down that road.
Cordell Johnston stated that Farrar Road is currently a class 5 road (which is a town maintained road.) They would have to discontinue it as a class 5 to a class 6 and completely discontinue the road and make it a non-town road.
Mr. Pimentel asked Mr. Evans if he has discussed this proposal with the other residents on his street. Mr. Evans replied no. “I wanted to wait and see the outcome of tonight’s meeting before doing so.”
Mr. Pimentel stated that if the bottom part of the road no longer exists then it diverts back to the owners, half and half.
There was a great deal of discussion regarding driveway access, the loss of road frontage due to the discontinuation, and non-conforming lots.
Mr. Johnston asked if the road was used when it was closed and what was the traffic like during the summer months.
Mr. Evans – Yes, people use the road when it’s closed. They go around the barriers. During the summer months you have construction vehicles and others. It’s a very busy road in the summer.
A lengthy discussion regarding the discontinuation of Farrar Road pursued with the following comments:
Farrar Road is undeveloped. There would have to be a change in the homeowner’s deeds reflecting a power line easement. Kate Blanchard suggested the town contact their attorney to clarify the terms and definitions on how to proceed. Mr. Johnston and Mr. Pimentel were not sure if they would approve a warrant article for Mr. Evans at this time.
Motion Tom Watman moved to submit a request to the Highway Committee and town attorney regarding Mr. Evans request for the discontinuation of Farrar Road. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and approved unanimously.
Item 2 - Angie Robinson - Community Concerts – Budget Review
Ms. Robinson reported to the board her intentions about the 2006 band concert series. Since her budget was cut from $7,000.00 to $5,000.00, she decided there would only be enough funds to cover about 8 to 10 bands (from the usual 10 to 12 bands) especially since some bands were raising their prices.
After a lengthy discussion regarding the band concert budget, Mr. Watman advised Ms. Robinson that they are still working on the band budget for next year and once it is approved they will let her know what she has for funding. Their intentions were not to cut the band budget and the number of bands hired, rather to see if we could obtain the same number of bands for the same budget as last year, or lower, to save money.
Ms. Robinson advised the board that she needed to start contacting bands after the holidays for booking, since their schedules fill up fast.
Cindy Marsland wanted to publicly thank Ms. Robinson for all her efforts in volunteering her time in setting up these concerts each year for the town. “She does a remarkable job!”
Ging Blanchard – Tax Maps – Budget Review
Budget request: $2,500.00
Ms. Blanchard reviewed her budget with the board. Informed the board that these tax maps were created using information that was taken from an aerial survey. She suggested creating these maps with a more up-to-date system, advising the board to form a committee, with those who use the tax maps the most, to decide what/how to redo them. Mr. Pimentel stated he would put this on the “to do list” for the town meeting so it can be addressed.
Peter Flynn – Community Services – Budget Review
Budget request: $50,873.00
Mr. Flynn reviewed his budget with the board and stated he would like to keep the same budget.
Peter Flynn – Code Enforcement/Roland Soucy – Budget Review
Budget request: $18,003.00
Mr. Flynn reviewed his budget with the board. Mr. Johnston asked if the town was proposing a residential building code. Mr. Flynn stated that it was his understanding that there was one being proposed as a result of the zoning proposals.
Human Services – Cindy Marsland – Budget Review
Budget request: $68,250.00
Ms. Marsland reviewed her budget with the board. She stated they have had three new clients in just one day (which is out of the ordinary) requesting heat, electrical, and rent assistance. Two people had shut-off notices and the other has no electric or propane for heat.
Ms. Marsland is requesting and additional $5,200.00 for the medication portion or the budget.
She is also requesting an additional $4,000.00 for fuel assistance next year. There are some people requesting automobile gas money. We don’t normally pay for automobile gas; however I would rather assist someone that is trying to get to work or school.
Since not all drugs are covered, she is also requesting an additional $3,000.00 for medications.
To defray the cost to the town, she readily tells clients to apply for additional services such as WIC, the food pantry, food stamps, and asking their physicians to give out generic prescriptions. Ms. Marsland also stated she offers assistance to the clients in filling out the paperwork.
Since some of these programs take several months to get approved, clients require the aid of the town until they become effective. That’s where the increase in the budget comes in.
Mr. Flynn stated that Ms. Marsland goes above and beyond what is expected of her and praised her for the work she does.
Kim Johnson – Town Clerk – Budget Review
Budget request: $53,228.00
Ms. Johnson reviewed her budget with the board. She pointed out there were several increases such as higher wages and benefit costs, an increase in office supplies, increased mileage, and extra training.
Kim Johnson – Tax Collector – Budget Review
Budget Request: 55,288.00
Ms. Johnson reviewed her budget with the board. She recommended keeping the same budget.
Jason Fellows (for Rick Daniel) – Athletics – Budget Review
Budget requested: $33,183.00
Mr. Fellows reviewed his budget with the board. He recommended a large increase to the budget. Mr. Fellows stated the baseball team needs new equipment, the cost for Umps has gone up since they are having a hard time finding anyone to come out this way. They will not go any further than Weare. Because of this, they want to be able to train their own Umps; asking high school students, college students, and residents to volunteer their time.
They were only doing background checks for the coaches however, they also want to be able to background checks on the assistant coaches. These cost $15.00 each.
Since the paperwork needs to be notarized, it was suggested to contact a local bank, someone that works for the town, or a local resident that is licensed, to volunteer their time.
Mr. Fellows is also requesting $500.00 for equipment bags since the old bags are no good and won’t even zipper anymore. This would be a one-time expense. Mr. Fellows would also like two storage lockers to keep at certain fields to store items. These lockers would be securely fastened and locked down.
Since Mr. Fellows was asking for a lot, Ms. Morse suggested he phase everything in over time. Mr. Pimentel suggested Mr. Fellows go through his budget again and prioritize his needs to trim things down.
John Margeson – Highway Department – Budget Review
Budget requested:
Highway General budget: $528,788.00
Highway Streets: $153,500.00
Highway Street Lights: $$16,500.00
Mr. Margeson reviewed his budget with the board. He pointed out several increases due to the increase in tires and repairs. This will stabilize and is only a one-time deal.
Mr. Margeson stated sand and salt rates have gone down, but may be concerned the dealer will add a fuel charge price.
Item 3 - Review and adopt meeting minutes of November 8, 2005
Mr. Flynn stated the minutes were not available at this time, but would be by the next meeting.
Item 4 – Town Administrators Report
The town hall will reopen on Tuesday, November 22, 2005. Mr. Flynn would like to have an open house on Saturday, November 26, 2005 between 10:00 – 12:00.
The sand shed is complete, just requires painting.
Nothing has happened with the Comcast contract.
The situation with salt in the water is being followed-up.
There is a meeting November 29, 2005 regarding the bend in the curve on Mt. Hunger Road.
There is an estimated tax rate of $25.13.
Motion Mr. Johnston moved to go into a non-public session. Seconded by Mr. Watman and approved unanimously.
Item 5 – Selectmen’s Report
Ms. Morse reviewed her report with the board. Stated she is looking into mandatory recycling at the schools. She has asked other towns how they are doing with it and found there are more questions than answers. Brainstorming is still in the works.
Ms. Morse stated she would not be available for both budget committee/selectmen meetings in January.
Motion Mr. Johnston moved to adjourn public session and go into non-public session per RSA 91,A for legal purposes. Seconded by Mr. Pimentel.
Mr. Watman and Mrs. Morse, Mr. Pimentel and Mr. Johnston voted yes to go into non-public session. 8:50pm
8:55pm – Board came out of non-public and into public session.
Selectmen Johnston motioned to adjourn, seconded by Rod Pimentel. Vote was 4-0 in favor
Board adjourned. 9:00pm
Submitted by Lisa Demers
Approved Minutes
Meeting of November 8, 2005
The Grange
Present: Peter Flynn, Town Administrator, Selectmen Rod Pimentel, Cheryl Morse, Cordell Johnston, Ron Lavallee, and Tom Watman.
Also Present: Jeremy Soullier, Martha Taylor, Rachel Arnold, Pete Fernandes, Bob Pennock, Kevin Steinbach, Ken Levesque, Bill Belanger.
6:00 p.m. The members of the board went over and signed the Consent Agenda.
6:15 p.m. The pledge of allegiance was said.
MOTION made by Cordell Johnston to approve the consent agenda.
Cordell Johnston wanted to move onto the third item. Minutes for October 25th and November 1st.
ITEM 3: Minutes of October 25, 2005 were reviewed and corrected. MOTION made by Rod Pimentel to accept the minutes as corrected. Cordell Johnston seconded. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
Minutes of November 1, 2005 were reviewed and corrected. MOTION made by Rod Pimentel to accept the minutes as corrected. Cheryl Morse seconded. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
Public Forum:
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
THE GRANGE
APPROVED MINUTES
PRESENT: Peter Flynn, Town Administrator, Selectmen Rod Pimentel, Cordell Johnston, Tom Watman, Cheryl Morse and Ron Lavallee.
Also present: Stephany Lavallee, Peter Fernandez, Liz Bedard, Bob Pennock, Nancy Foley, James McElroy, Dale Clement, Michelle Bergh, and Jeremy Soulliere.
6:00 p.m.
The meeting began with the Consent Agenda that included a written statement submitted by Tom Watman, dated 10/04/05, a copy that will be attached to these minutes.
PUBLIC FORUM
Stephany Lavallee asked that the Board not conduct any further discussion of improvements and/ or changes to the Old Concord Road project.
Stephany Lavallee expressed concern whether Henniker has a current plan for emergency evacuation routes, an energy plan for future businesses, and a code of ethics policy. She asked the Board of Selectmen to show support for the REACH program, as the Department of Environmental Services, (DES), is considering amending the definition for construction debris.
Ron Lavallee asked for an update on what the grant resources are expended on by Emergency Management Director, Bill Belanger.
Peter Flynn will check with Bill Belanger for that information, and with the Hopkinton town administrator in reference to the Bio Energy issue.
Cordell Johnston suggested inviting Senator Bob Flanders and Henniker representatives to a future selectmen meeting.
In reference to the ethics issue, Cordell Johnston stated the town does not currently have an ordinance in place. He said State law allows the town to adopt a document on ethics, but he is not knowledgeable enough to elaborate on the issue. He added that whatever the state law is, that is what the town follows. To add such an ordinance would require it to be a warrant article.
MOTION made by Cordell Johnston to approve the Consent Agenda with the inclusion of submitted statement. Seconded by Rod Pimentel and voted 5-0 in favor of the motion.
Nancy Foley submitted pictures and explained the volunteers of the Craney Hill Lookout Tower Association would like to clear small trees and brush that has overgrown and is obscuring the view from the lookout tower. This will take place over several years in the fall.
Since the tower sits on approximately one-acre of town land, the town would assume responsibility for any liability during the work. The group would clear between 50- 100 feet from the base of the tower. Rod Pimentel expressed concern for removing large trees, as the group is doing the work themselves.
Dale Clement stated there were over 100 visitors to the tower last weekend. Many commented the trees hindered the view. He said the biggest expense the association has incurred was to install the Plexiglas. Private donations help offset these expenses.
Rod Pimentel asked if the fire department had added a transmitter at the tower. Peter Flynn stated they decided against it.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to authorize the Association to remove brush and trees at the base of the lookout tower. Seconded by Rod Pimentel and voted 5-0 in favor of the motion.
Bob Pennock introduced Liz Bedard, Executive Director from the Northeast Resource Recovery Association. She presented a Power Point report titled, Pay-As-You-Throw or Mandatory Recycling in Henniker?
After the presentation, Liz Bedard answered questions from the Board. Discussion included education to encourage recycling, enforcement of program, tax money saved by recycling by reducing the tonnage to the incinerator, and comparison of other towns that have PAYT programs.
Issues brought up were the benefits of curbside removal; if curbside encourages recycling and concern that curbside pickup would require another town department to budget for.
Also discussed was the possible increase in traffic at the transfer station if the PAYT program was approved.
The Board agreed to revitalize the Recycling Committee with this new information, and through various means, educate the citizens of Henniker about this program and the benefits of recycling.
Peter Flynn was asked to assemble the Recycling Committee for the next meeting.
Rescheduled for a future meeting.
Item 4. Review and adopt minutes of September 20, 2005.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to approve minutes as edited. Seconded by Ron Lavallee. Vote of 5-0 in favor of the motion.
The Board discussed a request by Mark Molner to have a park bench erected somewhere near the river in honor of his mother, Mary Molner, who lived in Henniker for 12 years and taught at New England College, at the Writing Center.
After a brief discussion, the Board determined to adhere to their previous decision of not having additional stone monuments erected on town property. Ron Lavallee suggested that Mr. Molner approach the college with his request, and Peter Flynn will do so when he declines his offer.
Cheryl Morse suggested a program where someone may want to plant a tree in memory of someone. First the park’s department would need to map out where a tree may need to be replaced or where one could be added. She reminded the Board that at one time there has been discussion of a possible gazebo for the summer band series. Plaques could be purchased as a memoriam.
Ron Lavallee suggested sizeable donations to the food pantry might be a consideration.
Rod Pimentel suggested the Board discuss these issues again.
· Old Concord Road Sidewalk Project-Construction complete. Minor cleanup and drainage issues still being done.
· West Henniker Paper Mill- Update not available.
· Revaluation Progress- Hearings will be complete this week. Land value is high but tax bill will be less. The information will be sent to DRA within the week.
· Pay As You Throw- Presentation given at this meeting.
· Waste Water engineering and upgrade- No new report.
· Town Hall Renovation-Demolition work complete. Inside wiring and framing began. The floor was leveled as much as it could be, and the 6” pipe was installed for the sprinkler system.
· Salt shed design and purchase- The work is in progress. The foundation has been installed and the walls are up.
· Sale of St. Theresa’s church property along with subdivision process- The survey is complete. Peter Flynn will go before the planning board on October 12 with the conceptual for the minor subdivision plan.
· Sale of Old Hillsboro Road land and Bacon Road land- Work in progress.
· Manhole cleaning maintenance- As of this date the work has not been complete.
· Comcast Cable Renewal- No new report.
· Mount Hunger Road review- Peter is still in communication with Todd Clark.
· Capital Improvement Committee- First meeting is scheduled for October 6, 2005 as an organizational and strategy meeting. These meetings will take place at the temporary town hall.
· Green Mountain Explosive Case- A letter was sent to the ZBA asking for them to have town counsel remove the “Town” from the case. Motion to do so failed at the ZBA meeting of September 21.
· Visitation to Departments- Still scheduled for Saturday, October 15, 2005 at 8:30. Board members to meet at the Crescent Street parking lot.
· Conservation Current Use Report- Report of September 27, 2005 shows $187,050.00 collected, which 50% was to be transferred to Conservation account; $93,525.00. Estimated cash available in account thru 09/27/05; $120,220.24.
· Welfare Data- Statistics for 2005 were reviewed by the Board.
From Ron Lavallee-
· Still a concern about the salt in Sarah Davison’s well. What is the town going to do about it?
· What is the status on the Bennett subdivision with building permits not approved by the fire chief because of the lack of water supply?
Peter Flynn stated Spencer Bennett is challenging the chief’s authority and the matter is being reviewed by town counsel. The Fire Marshall supports the chief.
· Is the grant received by the Emergency Management Director paying for the office space at Liberty Hill Office Park?
· Will the Board get update on the fuel saving plans from all the departments, and do we have the capability to finance increase?
From Cheryl Morse-
She suggested the CIP have an outline of what roads are to be worked on in reference to potential subdivisions.
From Tom Watman-
Rod Pimentel stated they might be doing work in the town right-of-way. Peter Flynn will send a letter of caution to the property owner.
9:10- MOTION by Cheryl Morse to move into non-public session. Seconded by Cordell Johnston. The vote was 5-0 in favor of the motion.
Continued Public Session
Ron Lavallee reviewed the process in which the Town has provided compensation to the Town employees and advised of a deficiency in the past. He said that the policy of annual performance evaluations should be followed and have not been consistently adhered to. This should be done before any step raise is granted.
He asked for a review and modification of the process in order to keep in line with the ‘actual’ state system of step increases.
Board members also asked about health insurance benefits and what the Town can do to possibly reduce, or at least hold the line on the cost of premiums. Peter Flynn was requested to present some ideas to accomplish this.
9:25 p.m. Motion to adjourn by Tom Watman. Seconded by Cordell Johnston. The Board voted unanimously to adjourn.
Respectfully submitted by,
Gail Abramowicz
APPROVED MINUTES
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 20, 2005
PRESENT: Peter Flynn; Town Administrator, Selectmen Rod
Pimentel, Cordell Johnston, Tom Watman, Cheryl Morse and Ron Lavallee.
Also Present: Stephany Lavallee, Bob Pennock, John Margeson, Tom French, Jeremy
Soulliere, and Barbara French.
6:00 pm- Meeting began with the review of the Consent Agenda items.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to approve the Consent Agenda. Seconded by Rod. Vote
5-0 in favor of the motion.
6:15
Public Forum
• Barbara French spoke in reference to the Green Mountain Explosive proposal.
She stated she was a member of the original Master Plan committee and there was
a big concern to preserve that area as rural and not have it changed to a
commercial zone.
• John Margeson informed the Board the salt shed needed to be relocated slightly
from the previously designed location. He is before the Board to get approval to
pave the area where the former shed was as that is where they will park
equipment for plowing. The estimate from Pike Industries is $6,400.
Peter Flynn gave his recommendations to the Board in favor of this project. He
stated the funds are in the highway budget, it is cost effective because Pike
Industries was charging the same material rate because they are still working on
Old Concord Road, and the area will be a mess in the spring time if left as just
gravel.
After a brief discussion, MOTION to authorize John Margeson to expend $6,400. To
pave the area of the former salt shed was made by Tom Watman. Seconded by Rod
Pimentel. The 5-0 vote was in favor of the motion.
• Ron Lavallee asked John Margeson for a plan to reduce fuel consumption in his
department.
John stated the new highway department truck was delivered this afternoon.
Tom French, Chief of the Rescue Squad, stated he has made changes in his
department relative to fuel consumption and that he will pass the request onto
the fire department chief.
• Stephan Lavallee asked if the town had any plans to put the three forests in a
conservation preserve.
Rod Pimentel stated the Conservation Committee has a map that shows the property
owned by the town and is currently looking at what could be placed in permanent
conservation. He added that the town would not sell any town land before
consulting with the Conservation Committee.
John Margeson noted that there is a forest on Dodge Hill Road, Old Concord Road,
and Depot Hill Road.
Stephany Lavallee asked that the Selectmen take under advisement to look into
this issue of placing land in conservation.
• Bob Pennock presented photographs to the Board in reference to cars parking on
Depot Hill Road. One concern is that there is no designated spaces for town hall
use only. He recalled there were signs at one time stating just that purpose,
but they were removed for some reason. Another concern he stated was the lawn is
being ruined on the memorial park side on Depot Hill Road.
Tom Watman asked John Margeson to look into curbing on the left-hand side of
that street and designated parking signs for the right-hand side.
Rod Pimentel asked John to present a plan for curbing on Depot Hill Road and
Circle Street.
It was suggested that the highway department and the parks department work
together on this project.
MOTION by Tom Watman to authorize the highway department to purchase and place
the appropriate signs in front of the town hall.
Cordell Johnston seconded the motion. The 5-0 vote was in favor of the motion.
Peter Flynn and John Margeson will decide on the design and location of the
signs.
• Tom Watman asked for a report on the conservation account from land use tax
income. Peter Flynn will have that report at the next meeting.
6:50
Item 1: Request for repairs at Transfer Station Facility
Bob Pennock, superintendent, presented photographs showing the wear to the
compactor and a quote of $8, 930.95 for parts, labor, travel and overnight
charges to cover the 2-day rebuilding process.
After a brief discussion, MOTION by Ron Lavallee to approve the request to fix
the compactor at a total price of $8,930.95. Cheryl Morse seconded the motion.
The 5-0 vote was in favor of the motion.
7:00 p.m.
Item 2: Progress report on the Old Concord Road Sidewalk Project
John Margeson stated the project will be completed this week. The second coat of
asphault from Amey Brook Bridge to Crescent Street will be done on Wednesday,
09/21/05. The project came in on budget.
Landscaping will be done possibly in May, and improvements to the drainage with
regards to aesthetics will also need to be done.
Cheryl Morse questioned the incomplete work of the curbing on Main Street, and
the difference in the width of the sidewalk.
Tom French, the engineer on the project from HTA Engineering, answered all their
concerns with regards to decisions needing to be made as the work progressed and
opting for the most cost effective and efficient methods to accomplish the
project and still stay within the budget.
John Margeson will present an estimate to the selectmen, when available, for
what it will cost to complete the curbing on Main Street between the Connor
apartments and Crescent Street, and to include curbing the east side of Depot
Hill Road along Memorial Park and Circle Street.
7:30
Item 3: Selectmen’s Meeting Procedure and Policy- Third Reading
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept the policy as presented.
Cordell Johnston seconded. The 5-0 vote was in favor of the motion.
Item 4: Highway Safety Committee meeting report
At the request of the selectmen, the committee was asked to consider the speed
limit on Liberty Hill Road and a citizen’s suggestion of adding a sidewalk in
front of the former Lucky Star restaurant. The selectmen reviewed the minutes
from the Highway Safety Committee’s(HSC) meeting held on September 19, 2005.
• With regards to the speed limit on Liberty Hill Road, there will be signs
erected to indicate the speed limit is 35mph.
• The Liberty Hill Office Park Condominium Association will be asked to install
a stop sign at the end of the driveway before coming onto Liberty Hill Road.
• The committee recommends the selectmen consider installing a sidewalk between
Route 114 and Rush Road.
• Cindy Marsland will be assigning house numbers to new property on Mount Hunger
Road. The committee still has a concern for the lack of any formal house
numbering system for the town, and the large number of residents who still do
not have visible house numbers posted on their homes or mailboxes.
• The last item discussed was the inconsistency of the speed limit on Western
Avenue. John Margeson will c