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Board of Selectmen
2006 Minutes of Meetings
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Board of Selectmen |
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2006 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.
| Available Meeting Minutes |
TOWN OF HENNIKER
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
December 19, 2006
Members Present: Tom Watman, Chairman; Joe Damour; Cordell Johnston; Cheryl Morse; Rod Pimintel; Peter Flynn, Town Administrator
Others Present: Ron Hess; Ms. Hess; Kevin Degnan; Bonnie and David Conway; Stephany Marchut Lavalleee; John Margeson; Shelagh Mannix; Heather French; Nancy DeMoura; Bethany Margeson
Chairman Watman called the meeting to order at 6:15 pm. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
The Chairman announced that one item, an addition to the minutes of November 21, 2006 had been removed from the Consent Agenda and would be handled under Item #6 instead.
Cordell Johnston MOVED to accept and sign the Consent Agenda, as amended; Cheryl Morse SECONDED the motion. The motion was APPROVED, 5-0.
The meeting moved into Public Forum. Ron Hess, resident at 8 Prospect Street, represented neighbors in the area of an apartment complex housing NEC students which has become disruptive to the neighborhood. Mr. Hess reported that the students are disrupting the neighborhood with disorderly conduct, drunkenness, cursing, property damage, excessive traffic, etc. He stated that the police have made numerous visits to the property. He asked what further recourse concerned citizens have to help this situation. Mr. Hess also stated that he knows of eight other families that were ready to voice their concerns about the situation besides those represented at the meeting tonight. Kevin Degnan, of 23 Prospect St., stated that many zoning regulations are consistently violated. He stated that he is frustrated with paying higher taxes when having cars parked on his lawn and the suffering the smoke pollution caused by the external wood furnace.
Chairman Watman asked for the residents to compile their complete list of complaints in writing to the Town Administrator. As this is the first time that the Board of Selectmen is aware of these problems, the Town Administrator will ensure that the appropriate agencies will address any violations promptly and to the full extent of the law. Peter Flynn, Town Administrator, stated that he has met with Mr. Degnan and is aware of the consistent disturbances. He stated that he is aware that the Code Enforcement officer will be visiting the property the next day.
The Board, by unanimous consent, instructed the Town Administrator to compile a report of complaints, concerns and actions taken regarding this matter and to provide the Board with any recommendations that he felt would be appropriate.
Item 5: RE: Fund Raising and Donation acceptance Including Fire Dept. Auxiliary legal status:
Town Counsel has provided a written opinion that the auxiliary and booster groups may raise funds for their purposes; however, funds should be channeled through the Board of Selectmen. Any funds or equipment turned over to a municipal department must go through the Board. If any donation is over $500, it must also go through a public hearing.
Chairman Watman referred to a letter from Fire Chief Gilbert urging the Board of Selectmen to authorize the Fire Dept. Auxiliary.
Discussion continued about the services, liability and worker’s compensation coverage for the Auxiliary.
Cordell Johnston, board member, MOVED to authorize the Henniker Fire Fighters Auxiliary to provide services to members of the Fire and Rescue departments under the jurisdiction of the fire chief, subject to the organization’s formal establishment with the State. Rod Pimentel SECONDED the motion. The motion PASSED unanimously.
Chairman Watman MOVED to authorize the Town Administrator to notify all departments and the Athletic Committee of the attorney’s explanation of the legal requirements for accepting donations from auxiliary or booster groups. Joe Damour SECONDED the motion. The motion was APPROVED unanimously.
Item 1: Community Center/Grange rental policy revision.
Changes made to the policy include: adding tobacco products to the list of specific items not allowed; “facility is to be left in as clean a condition as it was found”. Chairman Watman ruled that this is actually the second reading of this document. Cheryl Morse MOVED to waive the third reading and to adopt the proposed changes; Joe Damour SECONDED the motion. It is APPROVED unanimously.
Item 2: Cheryl Morse is not submitting a formal report of the Salary and Benefits Committee this evening. They are looking into enrolling the Town employees into a different health insurance company. It was suggested that Peter Flynn and Russ Roy meet with the Town employees and a representative of the insurance company to get their feedback. A meeting will occur as soon as possible in January. Cheryl Morse stated that changing companies from Blue Cross/Blue Shield to Matthew Thornton Blue could save $35,000 for the Town. There is no deadline to enroll; the application process would take approximately 45 days. Employees could have the option to remain with BC/BS with the premium difference taken out through payroll deduction.
Ms. Morse MOVED for the Board to instruct the Town Administrator and Finance Director to set up a presentation by the Local Government Center to Town employees on the proposed health insurance plan, to evaluate the proposal and employee reactions and report back to the Board their findings. Rod Pimentel SECONDED the motion. Motion was APPROVED unanimously.
Cheryl Morse stated that she would attempt to submit the committee’s report at the January 16, 2007 meeting.
Item 3: Initial review of warrant article submitted by Selectman Johnston regarding “Rejecting the Pledge”.
Selectman Johnston stated that because of the tax burden in New Hampshire, the Granite State Fair Tax Coalition is recommending voters reject the use of their traditional “No New Taxes” pledge in order to encourage an open discussion of tax option. He stated that if the Selectmen do not put it on the warrant, it would probably be easy to do through public petition. Joe Damour stated that he believes it should be a statewide article instead of a Town article. Cheryl Morse stated that it might carry more weight if the article came directly from the voters than the Selectmen.
Cordell Johnston MOVED to insert this as a warrant article. Rod Pimentel SECONDED the motion. The vote in favor of needing this article was DENIED, by a 3-2 vote. YES--2 (Cordell Johnston & Rod Pimentel); NO—3 (Joe Damour; Chairman Watman; Cheryl Morse).
Cordell Johnston MOVED to approve the minutes of the 12/05/06 meeting. Joe Damour SECONDED. Minutes were APPROVED unanimously.
The minutes of the non-public session minutes of 11/21/06 meeting were reviewed. It was determined that sealed, nonpublic meeting shall remain sealed for a period of one year. Cordell Johnston MOVED to amend the minutes to include that change. Cheryl Morse SECONDED the motion. The motion PASSED, 4-1 (Joe Damour abstained as he was not in attendance at that meeting).
Selectman Johnston moved that the following addition be added to the minutes of 11/21/06 minutes.
“ The minutes will be sealed for a period of one year.” D to the minutes.
Item 7: Town Administrator’s report.
Mr. Flynn corrected a statement made in the Outlook. He stated that he has not received any information from Jean Lewis about the two lots.
Item 8: Selectmen’s Reports:
Water Commissioner’s meeting: Discussed long-range interest of the town to possibly combine water and sewer together for metered service. Mr. Damour reported talking with Scott Osgood, chairman of the Planning Board, about the GIS system and the consideration of a possible position of Town Engineer/Planner. He stated that it would be helpful to have an engineer that all departments could utilize.
Rod Pimentel reported that the Highway Maintenance committee is working on the task delegated by the Selectmen. The document will be submitted at the January meeting.
Cheryl Morse stated that there might be a possible warrant to fix a ball field. Nothing has been received from the Athletic Committee to act upon, though. They also discussed a sidewalk issue and property agreements.
A question was raised about the acceptance of the repair work done on Old Concord Road. A taxpaying resident stated that, in his opinion, the work was mishandled and there could be potential maintenance problems.
Item 4: Budget Review:
Joe Damour MOVED to pass the budget on to the Budget Review Committee as presented. Cheryl Morse SECONDED the motion. Mr. Damour stated that it used to go through the Budget Committee first so that they could discuss any deleted items. Chairman Watman stated that a list of suggested changes would be sent to the committee for them to track. The motion FAILED; 1 YES (Joe Damour) – 4 NO (Cordell Johnston, Chairman Watman; Rod Pimintel; Cheryl Morse).
Peter Flynn stated that there are two Town properties for sale.
Chairman Watman MOVED to add $200,000 to the listing of estimated revenues from additional sale of land in 2007; Cordell Johnston SECONDED. After discussion, Chairman Watman MODIFIED his motion to $100,000 in revenue from the sale of land in 2007. The motion PASSED unanimously.
Chairman Watman MOVED to eliminate $2,500 from Theater Productions. Joe Damour SECONDED; the motion PASSED unanimously.
There was discussion about financing the police department renovations and/or the Ramsdell Road Bridge. Town Administrator will secure clarification in writing from the State about the Bridge grant and the feasibility of extending the bridge repair until the following year.
The Fire and Rescue budget was discussed. It is noted that the bottom line stays the same; however it is the Board’s understanding that the Rescue Squad Chief states a $5,000 stipend. By consensus vote, the Board supported the provision of an administrative stipend for the Rescue Squad Chief.
Joe Damour MOVED to hold the Athletic budget to a 10-percent increase over last year’s budget. Chairman Watman SECONDED the motion. The motion PASSED unanimously.
The Board discussed the need for additional softball and baseball fields, as there has not adequate space for all leagues. Available leased property and other town-owned properties were considered. Peter Flynn will give a property list to Mark McMurphy to see if any could be feasible athletic fields.
Joe Damour MOVED to reduce Roads Repairs by $70,000 this year. Chairman Watman SECONDED; motion PASSED unanimously.
Joe Damour suggested moving $10,000 into the Capital Reserve for land purchase for Fire, Rescue & Police. The Board, by consensus vote, approved requesting $30,000 be requested to start the fund.
Board discussed removing $50,000 from Highway Equipment capital reserve. The Board approved a decrease of $25,000. The decision was by consensus vote.
Joe Damour suggested raising Fire Equipment Warrant Article from $100,000 to $300,000 in capital reserve and offset with $200,000 with the fund balance. (This will bring it up to a total of $300,000 to be funded from net fund balance).)
Joe Damour stated that a prioritized list of needs between the Town departments would be helpful for CIP planning.
The Board discussed the Police Department’s operating budget. IT was decided that no changes would be made.
The Board discussed property (1-1/2 acres) that may be for sale. Board discussed putting money in capital reserve for a possible future purchase.
Joe Damour MOVED to submit the amended budget and warrant article to the budge committee. Cheryl Morse SECONDED the motion. The Board of Selectmen will review the budget again after the committee looks at it. Motion PASSED unanimously.
Joe Damour MOVED to adjourn the meeting at 9:05 pm. Rod Pimentel SECONDED. Motion PASSED unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer Astholz
Draft ~
BOARD OF SELECTMAN
Town Hall
Selectmen Present: Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston, Cheryl Morse, Rod Pimentel, and Tom Watman
Town Administrator: Peter Flynn
Guests Present: Heather French, Tom French, Keith Gilbert, John Margeson, Jim McElroy, Leon Parker, Lynn Piotrowicz, Tim Russell, and Michael Pon from the Villager.
6:00 PM: Sign Consent Agenda
6:15 PM: Pledge of Allegiance
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to approve items on Consent Agenda. Seconded by Joe Damour. Approved unanimously, 5-0.
PUBLIC FORUM
Heather French informed the board of the formation of a Henniker Fire Department Auxiliary and asks for the board’s blessing. Tom Watman suggested consulting the town’s attorney before giving the Auxiliary a blessing from the board. Peter Flynn added that he has already consulted said attorney and expects to hear back from him in a few days. Mr. Flynn did emphasize that he was not aware of the group using the fire station facility, however. He said had he known he would have investigated the insurance issue.
Mr. Watman asked Mr. Flynn to place this item on the next agenda.
Item #1: Second Reading – Revised change of the Committees Policy
Tom Watman opened the Public Hearing at 6:30 PM.
Mr. Watman noted the addition of “and the Town Administrator will inform the chairperson of the committee when new appointments or re-appointments are made” to Section 6 (a).
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to waive a third reading and approve the revision of the Committees Policy. Seconded by Cordell Johnston. Approved unanimously, 5-0.
Item #2: Presentation of updated CIP document – Jim McElroy – Possible adoption by Board of Selectman
Jim McElroy presented the updated Capital Improvements Program document.
He gave recognition to the various people who contributed to the process.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to adopt updated CIP document. Seconded by Cordell Johnston.
Library Capital Reserve - Lynn Piotrowicz proposed to continue the request for another $5,000. for the Library Maintenance Fund. Also, a request will be coming to the Selectmen to place new warrant for purchase and installation of a new ‘circulation system’. She will advise after the Trustees meeting on December 13, 2006.
Rescue Capital Reserve - Tom French proposed to raise and appropriate the sum of $40,000.00 to be added to the Ambulance Capital Reserve Fund for the purchase of a new ambulance. Mr. French also discusses Revolving Fund. He explained that the revolving fund would eliminate having to bring this article back to Town Meeting each year and that the Selectmen would have the authority to expend. After much discussion as to the many ways to propose the wording of such an article it was recommended that Chief French work on new language.
Fire Truck Capital Reserve - Keith Gilbert proposes to raise and appropriate the sum of $100,000.00 to be placed in the Fire Equipment Capital Reserve Fund.
He explained that there is no request on the CIP regarding the ladder truck and that the current article just refers to ‘Fire truck’. Questions were asked about the possibilities of looking to the immediate future for a ladder truck and Chief Gilbert said that each year he has asked for funding it either gets delayed or eliminated from the warrant. At the present rate of capital planning there is no funding for a ladder truck in sight because he would use the already raised funding for a new tanker and a new pumper.
Highway Pickup Truck - John Margeson presented an article to raise and appropriate the sum of $43,000.00 to purchase a new highway pickup truck.
Mr. Margeson said that this is fully equipped and would include a plow unit.
State Road Grant - John Margeson presented an article to raise and appropriate the sum of $147,370.00 for road improvements, which reflects the estimated amount of the Town’s share of the State of New Hampshire’s Highway Block Grant.
Highway Capital Reserve Fund - John Margeson presented an article to establish a Capital Reserve Fund for the purpose of purchasing highway equipment and to raise and appropriate the sum of $50,000.00 to be placed in this fund. He explained that the discussion and recommendation was through discussions with the CIP committee. He thought it would be a good idea to build up the fund in order to lighten the load of a one time funding with no money set aside.
MOTION by Tom Watman to adopt the proposed five year Sidewalk Plan. Seconded by Cordell Johnston. Approved unanimously, 5-0.
Police Station Renovation - Tim Russell proposed to raise and appropriate the sum of $105,000.00 for the purpose of refurbishing the inside of the Henniker Police Department facility. Chief Russell suggested buying land before making renovations.
Purchase of land next to the Police Department - Tim Russell proposed to raise and appropriate the sum of $90,000.00 for the purchase of land namely Map ___, Lot ___ for the purpose of combining with Map ___, Lot___ for future expansion of the Henniker Police Department facility.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to go into Non-public Session. Seconded by Cheryl Morse.
Each member by roll call, voted to enter into Nonpublic Session.
Return to PUBLIC SESSION
Zoning article dealing with Building Permits
MOTION by Joe Damour to approve the amended wording of Zoning Article 133-55 to be included in the planning board’s list of zoning articles on the warrant. Seconded by Tom Watman. Approved unanimously, 5-0.
Hearse House Repair - Peter Flynn briefly explained the reason of this article that was submitted by the Henniker Historical District Commission. Due to the building sinking and deterioration over the years it is need of repair. The building will house an old hearse that was originally the property of the town Henniker.
Roof Repair to Town Hall - Peter Flynn reviewed the need for this repair work at the Town Hall
Fire/Rescue Maintenance Fund – This article is a routine article as explained by Mr. Flynn and is on the warrant every year. The purpose is to have funds available for emergencies for building repairs.
Ramsdell Road Bridge- Mr. Flynn explained that this is the time to finally repair the bridge in light of the fact that the State Bridge report pretty much leaves us no other choice other that to close the bridge. Mr. Watman asked Mr. Flynn how long the Bridge Aid Fund would hold the funds for the Town. Mr. Flynn explained that he thinks it would be safe to say the two years time would be ok but beyond that timeframe it may not be available do to federal eliminations of some funding or the state re-prioritizing their schedule of financing various projects.
Cordell Johnston requested to take an item out of order and discuss the Selectman’s reports.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to accept the changes in the Agreement for Rental and Fee Schedule for the Community Center and Grange building. Seconded by Tom Watman.
Unanimously approved by a vote of 5-0
The changes were:
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept the Minutes of November 4, 2006. Seconded by Rod Pimentel. Approved unanimously, 5-0.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept the Nonpublic Minutes of November 7, 2006. Seconded by Tom Watman. Approved unanimously, 5-0.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the Minutes of November 18, 2006. Seconded by Tom Watman. Approved unanimously, 5-0.
Tom Watman and Rod Pimentel point out errors in Minutes of November 21, 2006.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept corrected Minutes of November 21, 2006. Seconded by Joe Damour. Approved unanimously, 5-0.
Street number update- Mr. Flynn explained the process of the recent mailing.
1) Mr. Flynn mentioned that a Department Head meeting is scheduled for December 12 pertaining to performance Evaluation training by a representative of the LGC.
2) Reported of Highway Safety Committee review of stop sign at Liberty Hill and Davison Roads.
3) Referred information to Jean Lewis concerning request re: Lots 569 and 98
Selectmen’s reports:
Cheryl Morse gave update on Salary and Benefit Committee activity.
MOTION by Joe Damour to adjourn. Seconded by Cheryl Morse. Unanimous vote 5-0
Meeting adjourned at 9:05 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Corey Cook
Board Of Selectmen
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Approved
Selectmen Present: Thomas Watman, Cordell Johnston, Cheryl Morse, Rod Pimentel
Town Administrator: Peter Flynn
Guest Present: Peter Wright, Tim Russell, Cindy Marsland, Steve Connor, Gary Guzouskas, Denise Rico, Holly Green, Ron Lavallee and Stephany Lavallee
6:00 P.M. Sign Consent Agenda
6: 15 P.M Pledge of Allegiance
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to approve items on Consent Agenda. Seconded by Cheryl Morse. Approved unanimously, 5-0.
PUBLIC FORUM
Item# 5- Continued discussion re: Dr. Belson’s request for kayak drop-off area.
MOTION by Tom Watman to authorize the board to sign the letter that supports efforts of the Henniker Area Paddlers to install a drop-off area. Seconded by Cordell Johnston.
Tom requested changes be made to Item# 10 to reflect the correct motion, which was withdrawn.
No objections to adopting meeting minutes, chair assumes the minutes are accepted as amended.
Budget increase percentage is 2.52% this coming year. Requested budget is $4,851,465.
MOTION by Thomas Watman to accept the first reading except to change the wording of ‘re-appointments’ this is after resignation in number 6A. Seconded by Cheryl Morse. This request is proposed and submitted for the next reading.
Above MOTION WITHDRAWN by Thomas Watman.
NEW MOTION by Cordell Johnston to insert at the end of “A” a comma and then “and will inform chairperson of the committee when new appointments or re-appointments are made.” Seconded by Thomas Watman.
Rod suggested the policy be in chronological order, meaning appointments and re-appointments should be after section “B.”
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to add a new section “C” stating that the Town Administrator will inform the chairperson of the committee when a new appointment or re-appointment is made and the re-numbering of existing section “C” to be section “D.” Seconded by Cheryl Morse. Passed and approved.
Item# 1- Holly Green: Report on study of town owned land- Recommendations of what land to keep.
The Conservation Commission made up of townspeople which sole purpose was for land protection efforts formed the Open-Space Sub-Committee. They evaluated the list of town properties that the selectmen requested of them four have potential. The four lots that are recommended are Bradford Road Lot # 98, Western Avenue Lot # 569, Craney Pond Road Lot # 735, and Pasture Lane Lot # 660xx.
MOTION by Tom Watman to instruct the Town Administrator to consult with the town attorney to draw warrants for the selling of lots 654G, 436C, 42A, 342, 719A, 588B7, 408A, 349J and 402. Seconded by Rod Pimentel. Approved unanimously.
MOTION by Tom Watman to have lot 98 be referred to the Route 114 Planning Board Study Committee for their reaction and lot 98/lot 569 be sent to town’s current real estate agent for an appraisal. Seconded by Cheryl Morse. Approved unanimously.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to support
the Conservation Committee’s recommendations on lots 47, 50, 735 and 660xx.
Seconded by Tom Watman.
Motion passed.
Started to build a database that will collect all the information that was charged to the committee. This will allow to give road names, descriptions, number on the road status map, whether it meets town specifications, length that its paved, length that it is unpaved, conditions, year last repair, description of last repair, length of repairs, cost of repairs, anticipated repairs into the future, length of that estimated cost and year anticipated. Goal is to input onto a spreadsheet and present to planning board and selectmen.
Item# 3- Chief Tim Russell-Report on Highway Safety Committee Recommendations Re: Street numbering and street naming
Tim presents in detail thirty recommendations for street naming throughout the Town of Henniker.
Discussion continues regarding street naming and whether or not to hold a public hearing since notices were sent to residences of their new addresses, some residents have taken upon themselves to change their own. Cordell disputes this until a motion by Tom is made.
MOTION by Tom Watman to accept all thirty recommendations made by the Highway Safety Committee. Seconded by Rod Pimentel. Approved unanimously.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to name the road that services the CRL and the state highway shed to State Shed Road. Seconded by Tom Watman. Approved unanimously.
The only budget that has gone over is the welfare budget. No red flags. Should be in budget for the rest of the year.
Discussions on items on report.
All other items included were documented
by the Town Administrator.
Selectmen’s report.
Cheryl updated on wage and benefit study.
Tom Watman reviewed correspondence from NHMA re: Scott Davison becoming a Roads Scholar.
Motion to adjourn at 8:40 pm – Cordell Johnston, second by Rod Pementel
Motion carried unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
Charis Wilkerson
Approved
Special Selectmen’s Meeting
Budget Review Process
Selectmen Present: Thomas Watman, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston
Town Administrator: Peter Flynn
Guest Present: Tom French, Kim Johnson, Scott Osgood, Jon Evans, John Margeson, Leon Parker, Bob Pennock, Ann Gould, Andrea Tindal
Meeting begins at 8:30 A.M.
Fire Department/Rescue as presented by Tom French and Keith Gilbert- Projected Budget is $224,316
The biggest increase for budget of 2007 is going to wages and benefits. Seven percent increase in fulltime and part-time employees from 2006 to 2007. The part-time wages are level funded and calculated based on available sick time and leave time. Overtime wages are increased up to $200 based on current year to date expenditures projected out for the remainder of the year.
Level funded the Medical/HEP B, this is a token of money for flu shots for the emergency responders and to hopefully cover any costs if have to pay out of pocket expenses from the town as oppose to using workmen comp for on the duty injuries such as needle stick.
Dispatch fees have been reduced $5. Fee is to Concord for maintaining all the dispatching out of Concord. The fee is for $27.
Electric and Heat are projected numbers based on what was used this year. Not expecting any major spikes in expenses so the budget was dropped 2% for electric and 20% for heat.
Water/Sewer increased this year and will pay what is billed at the end of the year.
A $4,800 increase requested for building maintenance as the Fire Rescue building is in its 13th year of service and will need to replace the rugs in the meeting area. A quote of $5,500 was offered.
For Custodian, they will be billed at the end of the year. The annual lump sum is for a payment to the people who maintain the building.
Office Supplies went up considerably due to the request for a software package and CAD interface, this is so that they can report to the State the fire and ems incidences. This is a $2,000 increase.
For the Rescue Squad wages were level funded compared to last years as they pay the emergency responders $8/hr, one hour for the town and 2 hours for the hospital run. Which rounds up to $8 to $16 per run. Also, $1 per hour to just be on-call in town every fourth weekend.
The FICA budget was reduced because it was arbitrarily increased in last year’s budget.
Training’s budget increased primarily for the recertification of the EMT’s and the fees that go along with the level at which the EMT’s are at. Also, the EMT’s are reimburse after being with the town for a year.
Fuel reduced based on projected fuel use throughout the remainder of this year.
Repairs projected numbers are based on rates from remainder of September.
Medical supplies are in demand as the increase in call volume leads to the need of them.
Communication equipment was reduced by almost $3,000 mostly because of grant given to Fire Departments in New Hampshire that included 39 radio replacements, $2,000 in savings.
Tom Watman asked about the stipend given to the rescue squad chief. Tom said this was taken out of last year’s budget.
The Fire Department’s budget is $121,724, significantly reduced compared to last year’s budget.
Vehicle repairs are down because originally they didn’t have a town mechanic but this year they do so the budget is decreased by $8,000.
Equipment purchases have also decreased by $7,000 mainly because last years budget called for the extrication tools, which was taken out for 2007’s budget. Also, a request for a smoke machine for training purposes as they have been borrowing from surrounding towns. A grant match was included and was denied so the money will be returned. A thermal imager is also requested, as the one used is over 7 years old and is much larger than the newer, updated ones.
For Communication equipment, pagers and repairs are the main source for the increase to $2,875.
Equipment maintenance is down by $2,700.
Cordell questioned the decrease of the overall budget from the summary sheet. A math error was found on the original budget that is the reason for the difference from the summary sheet and the line- by- line budget sheet.
Town Clerk/Tax Collector as presented by Kim Johnson- Projected budget is $59,281
The biggest difference is the salary for the Town Clerk. For both, additional money is requested for advertising possibly for new office help and for office closures. Also, training and/or workshops for the certifications, etc.
Community Services as presented by Jon Evans- Projected budget is $60,873
For the last four years, the town has funded White Birch at the level of $40,000, and amount that represents less than 6% of our current annual budget of $675,000. In that four-year period, the costs of providing our programs and services have risen dramatically. Many increases, including the costs of health insurance, liability insurance, fuel, and other important items, have been beyond our control. Requesting an increase of $10,000 in our funding, which we believe is the minimum amount we need to maintain the programs and services we currently offer…
Jon Evans pointed out that the senior program’s budget is the highest as there are seniors coming from surrounding towns participating. Tom suggested that White Birch request a budget from these towns that don’t provide senior service programs. Jon said he is weary of asking for money from other towns, rather then Town of Henniker. Also, Jon stated that this would be the goal with the new executive director.
Highway Department as presented by John Margeson- Projected budget is $508,277
Overall budget went down considerably, 3.9%. There is a substantial decrease in the tire line, since it was budgeted last year for four of them. It was purchased this year making it a 66% decrease.
Under building repairs and shop equipment, the budget has almost doubled due to the need to replace the furnace in the modular part of the shop. Furnace will be about $3,900 to replace.
Highway Streets as presented by John Margeson- Projected budget is $150,232
Salt prices have gone down; therefore budget has decreased by $2,268
Street Lights as presented by John Margeson- Projected budget is $19,448
There is an estimated, 4% increase in electricity. This is included in the bill.
Baseball/Softball
Soccer
Basketball/Cheerleading
1. Small increase; need to replace very old uniforms.
2. Medical supplies
Tom Watman requested the Town Administrator to research the procedures for the handling of donations.
Discussion into a fee for children entering into any town sport activities. A consensus to gather additional information before a decision is made.
Scott announced changes to the budget, as there are some math errors. Wages are down from $4,000 to $3,000. Legal fees are changed from $5,000 to $4,000. Dues/Memberships changed from $5,006 to $5,203. Advertising changed from $700 to $2,000. Making the total $44,347.
Scott requested that the consultant for the Planning Board be only consulting as opposed to administrative duties, that way his consulting fees would decrease.
The largest increase is for the consultant, as the Board requested about 2 or 3 years ago, that some of the budget from the Planning Board could be transferred to the Zoning Board.
The wages for fulltime and part-time have increased due to the inconsistency of attendance from employees, whether is be injuries, sickness or surgeries.
Uniforms, which also include boots, have a slight increase due to rotating of new help.
Expected a 3% to 5% increase in the cost of electricity therefore an increase is warranted.
Vehicle fuel prices are rising, therefore a slight raise in the budget.
Trash Transportation has risen a little and has to leave enough for trailer removals, which is expensive.
Trash Tipping Fees have increased to $42.50 a ton from last year’s $41 a ton. In 2009, it’s expected to go up to $65 a ton.
The state has cut down on some of the monitoring of the wells, so $1,000 was taken out of the monitoring wells budget.
Wages have increased mainly for the overtime. Only major increases is the tree maintenances, community park improvements, sidewalks and landscape. Most of it is for replacing, cutting down trees, sidewalk maintenance and seeding around the gazebo.
Theatrical Production as presented by Andrea Tindal on behalf of Tom Dunn-Projected budget is $2,500
This is a new item on the budget and has not been funded before. The requested budget is needed for a community wide production based on Henniker’s rich history.
Material needed:
1. Microphones, etc.- $980
2. Backdrops- $650
3. Props- $170
4. Costumes- $700
Tom requested a complete budget to account for the extra help, fees and preparations.
No changes in budget from last years’. A notebook computer is requested to enter data at time of elections. Everyone who is of legal age to vote is in the state database. The computer is to enter the data from new registrees. The ballots and voting booths are down because there are no elections scheduled for next year.
Public hearing scheduled in December to determine the final budget.
Wages for the part-time is at $4,325 because Russ needs extra help to do data processing for payroll.
Significant increases are retirement. Another increase is auditor and assessor.
Sewer bill went up because of a ‘project’ taking place.
Building repairs and maintenance have gone up just because the toilet and light fixtures needed repairs.
Under equipment purchases a new filing cabinet is needed as Russ’s is falling apart, otherwise this has decreased considerably.
No changes. No discussion.
Largest increase is for request of rent, which went up from $35,000 to $ 47,000 for the coming year. New help was hired to organize the welfare system therefore the increase in wages and FICA.
Meeting adjourned at 12:00 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Charis Wilkerson
Approved
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Town Hall
Selectmen Present: Thomas Watman, Cheryl Morse, Joseph Damour, Cordell Johnston, Rod Pimental
Town Administrator: Peter Flynn
Guests Present: Brian Mazerski, Nonie Mazerski, Stephany Marchut Lavallee, Ron Lavallee, Carl Hamel, Scott Osgood, Robert Pennock, Holly Green, Ging Blanchard, Martha Taylor, Ron Taylor, Denise Rico, Russ Roy, Attorney Bart Mayer
6:00 P.M. Review and sign Consent Agenda
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited at 6:15 P.M.
MOTION by Joe Damour to approve the Consent Agenda items, as presented except for items relating to the drop off/access area between Patterson Hill Bridge and Western Avenue and the request to grant permission to Spencer Bennett to cross over the ‘right of way’ established by the B & M Railroad. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
PUBLIC FORUM- 6:17 P.M.
Brian Mazerski requested the Selectmen have the town’s safety committee investigate the re-alignment of two stop signs at the intersection of Liberty Hill, Bacon and Davison Roads. Tom Watman asks the board if there are any objections to refer to the highway safety committee. Cordell asked Brian if he requests the changes to be permanent. He said yes, he wishes these changes to be permanent. Board gives consent to have Town Administrator refer request to safety committee.
Scott Osgood of the Planning Board asked if he could submit a proposal to conduct a needs assessment for the GIS system. Mainly to find out what equipment is needed and identify who will be running it. He’d like to hire out a consulting firm to help with the first steps of setting the system up. Tom Watman asked the board if there are any objections to authorize Scott Osgood to prepare an inventory that can be distributed to all town committee and offices dealing with the GIS needs assessment. No objections, chairman assumes this is ok.
Stephany Lavallee inquires about the goals and objectives of the town employees regarding reducing their budget. Cheryl responds that the question was brought up in a previous meeting. The request is under investigation.
Ron Lavallee asks about property on Western Avenue that is not selling, he requested the Board take it off the market until later in the spring. Tom Watmsn said a figure had been established but not discussed publicly.
Item # 1: Atty. Bart Mayer- Introduction as new Town Counsel
Bart Mayer introduced himself to the Board as the town’s attorney and distributed his business card to the selectmen.
Item # 2: PUBLIC HEARING-THIRD READING – FEE ADDENDUM
Mr. Watman opens the Public Hearing at 6:34 PM on an Amendment to the Solid Waste/Transfer Station Ordinance, noting this is the Third Reading. He opened the floor to the public for questions or concerns.
Carl Hamel proposes the topic at hand be postponed until the town has a chance to meet and have the town vote on it.
Robert Pennock explained the reason for the requested fee of $7.00 per unit disposed.
Denise Rico asked Robert Pennock how often the containers are filled up. Bob said every four months or so.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept fee of $7.00 per unit for disposal of computers and TV’s with a screen size of 4 inches or more. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 5-0.
MOTION by Tom Watman too add the addendum, included in the ordinance and be reviewed at least once per year. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Ging Blanchard ask about the line in the addendum that reads ‘All Loads must be checked by attendant prior to disposal.’
Item # 3: Holly Green- Conservation Commission
Holly refers to written proposal with regard to pre-appointments of Committee members, In the case of the Conservation Commission appointments, the Selectmen will refer all interested applicants to the Commission Chair. The Commission will supply the Board of Selectmen with a prioritized list of the applicants according to how they match up to the needed skill sets. The Commission understands that the Board of Selectmen will approve the final appointment.
In cases of reappointment and new first time appointments the Town Administrator will notify the Chair of each Committee or Board subject to these policies.
Stephany Lavallee suggested, as a current member of the Conservation Committee, that applicants be notified of the level expertise needed to follow along with the Committee’s outings through the wetlands, etc.
Holly Green requested a revision in pre-appointment procedures for applicant’s applying for Conservation Committee so that applicant’s get a feel of what is expected.
MOTION by Tom Watman to refer the revisions of section 6 of the procedures to the Town Administrator for draft of first reading for the next meeting. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 5-0.
Holly Green requested the Board of Selectmen’s legal opinion on Land Acquisition and Conservation Committee Funds. Cordell suggested referring these issues to the NH Municipal Association and then the town counsel. Tom Watman suggests that the Conservation Commission needs to write up questions.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to have the chair of the Conservation Committee contact the NH Municipal Association with regard to Land Acquisition and CC Funds legal opinions. Seconded by Rod Pimental and unanimously approved 5-0.
Item # 4: Sounding Board Preservation
Martha Taylor requested one of the five “sounding boards” be moved from 2nd floor of the Town Hall to Academy Hall on permanent loan to the Historical Society.
Tom Watman asked if the Board were to approve what procedures as far as legal needs to be done. A legal agreement will need to be made from the attorney general’s office to grant the society to make such arrangements.
MOTION by Tom Watman to authorize the Historical Society to draft an agreement to present to the board at which a hearing will be scheduled. Seconded by Rod Pimental and approved unanimously approved 5-0.
Item # 5: Goals and Objectives- Finance/Systems Administration
Russell Roy reviewed 2005 versus 2006 goals and objectives as far as purchase order system, GASB 34 Fixed Asset System, seeking out/implement automated back up systems for file servers, install terminal in Town Hall for public access of assessing information, install 2007 version of Peachtree accounting replacing 2002 version and finally organizing the web page to be consistent with formats used by other municipalities.
Ron Lavallee requested that the zip drives be secured somewhere else other than with Russ at home. Tom Watman asks the Town Administrator to research.
Item # 6: West Henniker Contoocook River access steps
Peter explains the request from Dr. Roger Belson to install a drop off/access area on an unnamed tax map lot owned by the Town of Henniker at a triangle between the Patterson Hill Bridge and Western Avenue Bridge.
MOTION by Tom Watman to table the requests until Roger Belson submits additional information and clarification to include a suggestion to consider requesting a release. Seconded by Joseph Damour and approved 5-0.
Item # 7: Spencer Bennett of Henniker, NH to cross over the ‘right of way’
Discussion regarding request to grant Spencer Bennett to cross over the right of way established by the B & M Railroad many years ago and later placed under the jurisdiction of the Army Corps.
MOTION by Tom Watman to table the request to obtain information including what easements Henniker were granted in 1967. Unanimously approved 5-0.
Item # 8: Discussion re: Street Number Changes-Follow up action
Peter read letter from Town Counsel Bart Mayer stating RSA 231:133-a, vests in the Board of Selectmen the authority to adopt a system for assigning or altering address numbers of building and other property along any public or private way in the Town.
Item # 9: Bid Award for Extrication Tool
Only one bid for $26,000 from MBA Rescue Equipment LLC of Concord, NH
MOTION by Rod Pimental to accept the bid. Seconded by Tom Watman and unanimously approved 5-0.
Item # 10 Cheryl Morse’s question to send a letter to local district to keep budget under 3 %
A letter to John Stark and the Henniker School to keep the budget under a growth and the Board of Selectmen will try to do the same.
MOTION by Rod Pimental to send a letter to John Stark and Henniker School to keep the budget under 3% growth and the Henniker Board will try to do the same. Seconded by Cheryl Morse.
MOTION WITHDRAWN.
Item # 11 Selection of Town Meeting Deliberation Date
The Town Meeting for 2007 is scheduled for March 13(Tuesday) as prescribed by State Election Laws. Last year, the second session was scheduled for the following Saturday at 1:00 P.M. The Town Administrator recommends the following Saturday, March 17, 2007. Consensus to make the next Town Meeting on Saturday, March 17,2007 at 1:00 P.M.
Item # 12 Review and adopt minutes of October 17, 26(public hearing) and other sealed non-public minutes
Tom Watman suggested that motion on page 7 to grant the Town Administrator authorization to fill temporary part-time appointments, and place them on the Consent Agenda. He requests Peter draft it so that it is added to a policy.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept meeting minutes on October 17, 2006. Seconded by Joseph Damour and approved unanimously 5-0.
MOTION by Tom Watman to accept Public Hearing meeting minutes on October 26, 2006 as is. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and approved unanimously approved 5-0.
MOTION by Tom Watman to accept other sealed non-public meeting minutes. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and approved unanimously 5-0.
Item # 13 Town Administrator Report
Discussion between board members on actions items on the town administrators report.
Item # 14 Selectmen’s Report
Discussion
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to move into non-public session at 8:53 P.M.
Seconded by Joe Damour. Time – 8:45 pm
Roll
Call Vote: Damour-yes, Johnston- yes, Watman- yes, Pimentel – yes and Morse –
yes
Board returened to Public Session- 8:50 pm.
Motion to adjourn by Joe Damour, Second by Tom Watman, Unanimous vote-yes
8:52 pm
Respectfully submitted,
Charis Wilkerson
Approved
Special Selectmen’s Meeting
November 4, 2006
Selectmen Present: Thomas Watman, Rod Pimentel, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston and Cheryl Morse
Town Administrator: Peter Flynn
Guest Present: Ken Levesque, Angela Robinson, Tim Russell, Martha Taylor
Meeting began at 8:31 A.M.
Waste Water as presented by Ken Levesque- Projected budget is $481,019
Cheryl asked Ken why there is a significant difference between the budget and the expense. Budget was approximately $123,000 and only $90,000 was spent. Ken explained that the $90,000 was as of September.
Cheryl Morse said that electric rates are down as of July 1st, she asked if this affected the budget. Ken said his numbers are based on nine months of 2006 and then projected for 12 months of 2007.
Rod Pimentel inquired about the aeration system and if Ken believed that the change-over will in turn require less electricity. Ken hoped so.
Cheryl requested an explanation on the collection system, as it has budgeted at $20,000 for the past 3 years. Ken explained that the collection system has to do with the sewer pipes and its maintenance.
Tom Watman asked if there is a need for new tires for any vehicles or lawn mowers. Ken said the new pick-up only has 20,000 miles on it and therefore doesn’t require new tires. No equipment or employees are needed.
Cemetery as presented by Martha Taylor- Projected budget is $4,812
Martha Taylor stated the only difference in the requested budget from last years is that they have revenue from a trust fund.
Historic District as presented by Martha Taylor- Projected budget is $500
Martha Taylor confirmed that the Historic District is officially a land use board therefore requires them to send out notices, etc. The $500 requested is for stationary supplies.
Police Department as presented by Tim Russell- Projected budget is $939,488
Budget requested is higher than last years, due to demands for part-time officers and a speed trailer.
Chief Russell gave an explanation as to the makeup of his department and gave a comparison with New London. He explained some of the operational differences were actually not an ‘apples to apples’ comparison. The Selectmen verbalized their appreciation for the comparison and had expressed a more clear understanding of his budget rationale.
Animal Control – Projected budget is $26,687 –Presented by Chief Russell
Requested budget is down from 2006. No discussion.
Conservation Commission as presented by Martha Sunderland-Projected budget is $1,480
The $750 granted for French Pond was not used last year as they used equipment from New England College. Other than that no significant changes in the budget.
Community Concerts as presented by Peter Flynn- Projected budget is $6,000
No significant changes. No discussion.
Patriotic as presented by Peter Flynn- Projected budget is $2,000
Requested budget is lower than last years. No discussion.
Legal as presented by Peter Flynn- Projected budget is $20,000
No changes in requested budget. No discussion.
Insurance as presented by Peter Flynn- Projected budget is $85,500
Projected increases for workers compensation and general liability. No further discussion.
Debt Service as presented by Peter Flynn- Projected budget is $194,460
Requested budget is lower from 2006. No discussion.
Tax Map as presented by Peter Flynn- Projected budget is $2,500
The only difference is the budget for digital mapping is no longer needed. No discussion.
Municipal Dues as presented by Peter Flynn- Projected budget is $3,000
Selectman Johnston projected a small increase and Peter would be getting a letter from the LGC to confirm. No further discussion
Executive as presented by Peter Flynn- Projected budget is $22,066
An increase in wages for the Board of Selectmen clerk as there is a need for one.
At 10:37 A.M. Meeting is adjourned.
Approved
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
PUBLIC HEARING
Town Hall
Selectmen Present: Tom Watman, Rod Pimentel, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston
Town Administrator Present: Peter Flynn
Guests Present: Tom French, John Trovato, Mick Costello, Valerie Sorrels, Alexis Deruisseau, Bob and Joyce Gosse, Penny and Leo Quinn, Kate Bartlet, Caleb Dobbins, Aina Priedite, Angela Robinson, Varyl and Heather French, Charlene Story, Fletcher Ebbs, Mark Ebbs, Roger Gezelman, Susan and Ray Boivin, Nancy and George Kataja, Jeff Roach, Kathy and Bill Hadley, Ellen and Brian Hawkins, John Partridge, Tim Russell, Joe Kangas, Brian Mazerski, Dennis McAfee, Daniel J. Blain, Gail and Peter Beckett, John and Barbara Duquette, Clifford Eisner, Gerald Scala, Vikki Cater, Michelle Huffman, Virginia Doherty, Scott Myers, Debbie and Dave Archambault, Ted Parkins, Marie Paul, Christine Burritt, Mark Mosher, Susan and Ted Chumas, Anne Mellin, Lisa and Skip Hustis, Greg and Liz Sheldon, Nina Hopkins, Nancy Hathaway, Ken Richard, Barbara and Vincent Dello Russo, Liz Sweeney, Cathy Whalen, James Morse, Rocky Bostrom, Eleanor and John Kjellman, Daina and Cliffod Hilchey, Patricia Ball, Ron Hess, Patricia St. Laurence, Robert Bassett, Pepper Legro, Suzanne Pinkham, Stephen Burritt, Kathleen Hatt, Marianne Cameron, Wendy Pearson, Ray Fournier, Gigi and Jeff Laberge, Jean Lewis, Mark Anderson, Steven McHugh, Sylvia Cleot, Jon and Lucia Evans, Jodie Courtenay, Joann Capuco, John Margeson, Don Armstrong, John Weber, Keith Gilbert, Stef Costello, John Cater, Cindy Marsland, Peter Bergendahl, Linda Davison, Heidi and Bob Galster, Russell Clark, Thomas Ellis, Andy Mitchell, Joe Wegman, Marcia Oakman, Ron Raynes, Bob Pagano, Peter Hale, Wes Nelson, Holly and Chris Baum, John and Roseann Nee, Maria Cann, Karen Philbrick, Roy Grieder, Paul Brien, Ed and Chrys Otto, Bill Walton, Grace Cohen, Trey Dyksta, Beth and David Grey, Donna and Mac Macmillan, Peter Robichaud, Scott Osgood, Bob Lawson, Richard Conde.
Tom Watman called the Special Meeting of the Board of Selectmen to order, stating the reason for this meeting is because of the Board of Selectmen’s authority, under RSA 231.133, to change street numbers, with the requirement to hold a Public Hearing, with all abutters notified, in order to obtain their input on this issue.
Item #1: PUBLIC HEARING – Address Number Change on All Streets (except for Craney Hill Road, Western Avenue, Hemlock Corner Loop, Mt. Hunger Road, Flanders Road and Shaker Hill Road)
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing at 6:34 P.M. to review the suggested house number changes on certain streets as designated by the fire department for compliance and consistency with the recommendations of the public safety departments and Enhanced 911 system. Mr. Watman explained the format of the public hearing, beginning with a presentation to be followed by questions from the public, and then Board members, followed by comments of viewpoint from the public and then Board members. At that time, the public portion of this hearing will close and the Board will discuss the issue, taking a vote on an action if a motion is made. He noted that all discussion would be civil; this Chair will not allow individual debates to occur or verbal attacks on others. Mr. Watman opened the floor for Tom French, Chief of the rescue squad, and Keith Gilbert, Chief of the fire department, for their presentation.
Mr. French reviewed the purpose for proposing a new renumbering system based on new property developments and correcting the serious issues on certain streets. He introduced Mr. Gilbert, the Fire Chief, for the power point presentation. Mr. Gilbert narrated the PowerPoint presentation, stating the numbering system in town is atrocious and improvements are needed to meet public safety requirements. House numbers are out of order and misaligned and some streets are numbered backwards from the direction of travel. He noted several examples. He reminded the audience that fire and rescue personnel need orderly and clearly numbered addresses to find locations in town for response and rescue. Directions will be easier for residents as well and the benefit for the future is there will be room for additional addresses as property is developed. He explained how the new addresses were determined starting from the beginning of each road and traveling away from the center of town. Easier calculated distances of water sources to each home will improve fire-fighting efficiency. Life safety of residents will be improved because rescue personnel will arrive faster and can provide medical treatment faster. Fire fighters will be able to arrive faster to put out fires. Every second counts.
Mr. Watman thanked Mr. Gilbert for his presentation, as well as Mick Costello, from the fire department, who had done a lot of this research for this proposed renumbering system.
QUESTIONS
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing for questions from the audience. He reminded them to direct all questions to the Chair and to remain civil.
Caleb Dobbins said he understands the emergency concerns, but some buildings are not numbered, such as the schools. Why doesn’t the town consider purchasing a Global Positioning System (GPS) to place in emergency vehicles? Mr. French responded that it had been considered, but it would be very difficult to get it for every responder.
Vince Dello Russo said the proposed system for his address area, 9 Village Green Drive, does not seem to have consistent numbers either, but follows the old system. Mr. Gilbert responded that one of the rules in the proposed system is to number a circular drive as clockwise, so it is the same for every circular drive.
Jennifer McCourt said she is the only house on Ezekiel Smith Road, yet is required to have her mailbox on Colby Hill Road; she does not see why her house number must change if she is the only house with that address. Mr. Gilbert responded that she will be issued a number for the Ezekiel Smith Road address, and the number is measured to the center of the house, so even with more development, her house number will not change.
Bob Lawson of Ruffled Road said there are no issues for his address area and does not see why his number has to change. Mr. Gilbert responded that they are doing the entire town based on this new system; consistency in all areas is important so that everyone knows why and how a house gets its number.
Bob Pagano of Depot Hill Road asked what the cost is for this initial phase of this plan, and what will be the next phase? Mr. Gilbert said the town currently requires all houses to have 3” high reflective numbers so that emergency personnel can see them. There will not be any change to that regulation. The Fire and Rescue departments may do a fundraiser to help residents with this transition by selling house numbers and also look at other options, such as placing numbers on telephone poles to help designate along the road. Mr. Watman noted that the Board of Selectmen is not considering any changes at this time regarding this issue. In addition, there has been little cost to this proposed renumbering system.
Leo Quinn asked why circular drives are being numbered clockwise, since all rotaries in New Hampshire are numbered counterclockwise. Mr. Gilbert noted that this was an error on the department’s part, and may be corrected, should this system be adopted.
Aina Priedite said she lives on Colby Hill Road and is concerned that her new number may be confused with the same number in the town of Hillsborough, as she is so close to that town line; would it be possible to consider changing her number to avoid this confusion? Mr. Gilbert said yes, this is an excellent point and that can be considered.
Ms. McCourt said the post office has told her that her mailbox must be on Colby Hill Road, and so wouldn’t that confuse the system if her address number was for Ezekiel Smith Road? Mr. Watman noted that the Post Office couldn’t determine house addresses; the Board of Selectmen determines street addresses. Mr. Gilbert agreed, and noted that the number would still be distance-based.
Mr. Caleb Dobbins said that without enforcing the numbering ordinance of the town, it would always be difficult to find a house; so, how will emergency responders find this new information? Mr. Gilbert said this information would be provided to all dispatch centers, and they use cross streets as well in order to find the best way to a house; they will have those measurements.
Mr. Watman took time to remind attendees that this is the section to ask questions; if you have already formed an opinion, please wait for that section to share your comments. Allow others to ask the questions they need answers for, and respect their right to do so. He noted that up until now, there has been no system at all for town street numbering; this is a big problem and this new system will contribute a lot to public safety.
Gigi Laberge, of 17 Bacon Road, said she appreciates what the town is trying to do, and is grateful for when public emergency personnel have helped her, but she questions whether this is already a done deal? Mr. Watman said no, this is the public hearing to gain input on the proposed system. The Board had voted on changing six streets that were already a serious issue, with an effective date of January 15, 2007. He noted there had been some confusion because some of the communication had distributed change information before this system had been adopted. Ms. Laberge further asked for more research into the GPS option; she could not believe this proposed system would not cost more in the long run because of new technology coming. Mr. Gilbert said the town might be years away from being able to afford and operate under a GPS system. The technology is out there, but we do not even have digital maps for the town. It is very expensive and our dispatch centers are not capable of handling it right now. Mr. Rod Pimentel noted that he has had the opportunity to use GPS and there are areas in town that are not mapped for GPS; it will not work in town, for maybe many years.
A gentleman from Tanglewood Drive asked if the federal government and the USPS are involved and aware of this; will we get our mail and our tax bills? Mr. Flynn said the U.S. Postal Service is aware of this and is working with the town to help residents, should this system be approved. The Post Office will honor your old address for a year; they will get all the information for this new system. Mr. Watman noted that everyone is responsible for changing his or her own address.
A gentleman noted that a GPS system locates; it does not map; the Fire Chief has done a magnificent job in presenting the new system, but he would be happy to donate to purchase a GPS system for the town. Mr. Watman said he was sure the town would accept this gift, as long as the regulations of holding a public hearing on gifts over $500 are followed.
A gentleman asked the Board if they thought that if the residents voted that they would support this new system? Mr. Watman said he hoped they would; however, it is the responsibility of the Board to make this decision, not the voters. He did not think that more than half of the town residents were here tonight; he thought some people had already made up their minds; but he believed people would understand that this is a public safety issue.
Dan Blain of 5 Ruffel Road said his road is 25 feet long with only 5 houses on it; why change when this is perfectly fine? Mr. French responded that about 30% of the town roads would not have to be changed because there is no more room for development or they are numbered properly, but more roads in town do need to be corrected; this is for consistency and has to affect everyone. Mr. Watman said the problem is that there is no system right now; it has been done piecemeal and the question is public safety; is this issue important enough to the people to resolve now?
A gentleman asked how this would affect property deeds? Mr. Johnston said there is no impact on deeds because the address is not a requirement on them.
Alexis Deruisseau said the numbers between her house and her mother’s house are so large; why? Mr. Gilbert said that both were determined by the distance from the start of the road; it can be ambiguous; in her case, the measurement starts at the bridge abutments.
Gigi Laberge asked about the cost of a GPS system versus the cost of this proposed system and is it possible that it could be less expensive? Mr. Watman responded that anything is possible, however this has been an issue of long-term concern and researching a GPS system may take a 6-month study. He added that there is not enough money right now to get a Watts line for town. Scott Osgood, Chairman of the Planning Board, informed the Board that it would cost $100,000 for the first phase just to get maps digitized for the GPS. Mr. Watman thanked him for this information; noting that it is not likely that the GPS system is an option for the town at this time. Ms. Laberge noted she could buy a GPS system for her car; why can’t the town buy one for the rescue squad? Mr. Gilbert responded that he was not charged to research for a GPS system, but he can say that a GPS system for a 911 system must be, and is, more accurate than what is put in cars. It uses proprietary information and right now, the town is not able to access this information. Ms. Morse said the town operates within a mutual aid system, so the rescue squads from nearby towns will need this system as well. This proposed system is not perfect but it is the best we have right now. Mr. Watman asked Mr. Gilbert if he knew of any other town currently using a GPS system, and Mr. Gilbert said he was not aware of any at this time.
Richard Conde of Dodge Hill Road asked if it was possible to keep the current number but add the footage information as a suffix, so rescue personnel could find his house that way. Mr. Gilbert responded that the law requires the town to have a system, so this could be an option, but then everyone would have a large number, and he did not think that would be acceptable. Don Armstrong said he has worked with emergency 911 systems across the country; the 911 system works off the telephone system, so it is your street address that is being used. The most important issue for any emergency system is to keep it simple. Too much information may be deadly.
Liz Sheldon said this was an excellent presentation; very logical; she knows there are issues with several streets, but she thought they should fix them and leave the rest alone; why can’t this be done? Mr. Watman responded that this is what has been happening before, and it just compounds the problem. People assume that “now” means forever. Ms. Sheldon said then do the system by attrition. Mr. Watman asked Tim Russell, the Police Chief, for his input. Mr. Russell said a renumbering system is a frustrating option to consider, but whatever is decided, it is a matter of safety; this is not convenient for him either. The department responds every day to an emergency and nothings hurts our personnel more than to know there are hurt people out there that they are trying to reach. Ms. Sheldon reiterated that they should then fix the problem and leave the rest alone. Joe Damour responded that this is the same thing that has been said for years and it does not fix the problem. The need for uniform numbers is just that; it needs to be the same system for the entire town. Mr. Watman said it is hard to not over dramatize the problems safety departments are having because of the current numbering in town.
Ms. Laberge said it is most logical to do this by attrition.
John Weber of Quaker Street asked if there would be a way to appeal the number currently given, as there may be some confusion for commercial addresses. Mr. Gilbert said yes, it would have to be on a case-by-case basis, but they could have erred and they will change when it is logical; we will need input from residents.
Pepper Legro of Cressey Street said this is a small road with no more room so why such large numbers? Mr. Watman said it is based on distance from the start of the road. Mr. Gilbert said Henniker is one of the few remaining towns that have street numbers not based on distance. The reality is that this is not a foreign concept to most people; it is to us, as we have not had to use this before.
Caleb Dobbins asked how this new system would deal with multi-unit structures? Ms. Marsland said all apartment buildings will have one address, and then each building will have a number or a letter, and the same with the apartments inside. Each door needs to have a number.
Joe Wegman of Highland Drive asked if we would be training neighboring towns to use this system? Mr. Gilbert said there are constant training practices between the mutual aid towns, and we use their systems and they will use ours.
A gentleman from Highland Drive asked what the guarantee is that in five years we will need to change again? Mr. Watman said there is no guarantee; we do the best we can, but right now we do not have any system.
Vicki Cater asked about the businesses that have a lot of customers to contact? Mr. Watman said that should this system be approved, then notices will be sent out to everyone to use.
A gentleman asked about the measurement and if that could be appealed if we think it was measured to the wrong driveway? Mr. Gilbert said yes, the Board would have a way to appeal questions about measurement.
Mac McMillan stated that in a national emergency the GPS would be shut down. Mr. Watman thanked him for noting this possibility.
Eleanor Kjellman of 51 Rush Road asked if the town could make sure the roads are clearly marked with this new system? Mr. Watman said there are 8 roads currently identified that need to be renumbered, and any renumbering of them will be deferred until their names are confirmed. Ms. Morse noted that to the credit of the fire and police departments, these issues have been noted and will be fixed; this is a direct result of this project that will help the town.
A new resident in town said she was attending her first Selectman meeting and asked if there was any legal way for people to stop this right now? Mr. Watman said this is the Public hearing on this proposed system and the opportunity for you to share your opinions; however, it is the responsibility of the Board of Selectmen to decide on whether to adopt this system.
Joe Wegman of Highland Drive asked how this new system would help find the fastest route to a house? Mr. Gilbert noted the system would be consistent throughout the town, with the Board of Selectmen considering exceptions, if necessary. Mr. Watman said an appeals process will be put in place, but he said he would not mislead; a system is a system for a reason; requests will not be granted unless it is a significant issue. We are trying to cure the problem, not create more.
Bob Gosse of Old Concord Road asked if only the ones with the wrong numbers could be corrected; only 137 new construction permits were allowed in the last five years. Mr. Gilbert responded that the potential for development is why a new system is needed; it cannot be done piecemeal; we need a uniform system, otherwise there is no value to it. Mr. Watman said there are new zoning laws, new regulations and new ordinances that may arise; we already have a growth management ordinance.
Joe Kangas said there is a problem that exists; and asked for clarification on the house numbers required. Mr. Watman noted the ordinance requires the numbers to be 3” high and visible from the road; he noted this is currently unenforced. Mr. Kangus noted his was in stone and didn’t know if the numbers should be placed horizontal or vertical? Mr. Gilbert said there is no other recommendation on the way numbers are placed; just that they can be read from the road.
A gentleman asked about the numbering system and the conflicts with the mailing system. Mr. Watman said that future communications will help resolve some issues, but he assumes people doing this work will double-check their work, as well.
Caleb Dobbins asked if the house number ordinance will be enforced if this system is not adopted, and what about numbering the college? Mr. Watman responded that if the system is adopted, he is hopeful the ordinance will be enforced, possibly with some sort of penalty.
Joe Kangas asked about having to reregister with the DMV? Mr. Armstrong noted the State only asks you to write in your new address on the back of your current license. Mr. Watman noted the new address would be permanently changed when annually renewed.
Dennis McAfee asked how he could believe the town? Mr. Watman said he believes this is the best system, and he must assume in good faith that this will work. This is important to do and the best choice right now; could we be wrong? Sure.
Ron Hess noted road sign discrepancies and asked why he cannot find some road names on any map in town? Mr. Gilbert said this was an excellent point; he would encourage the Board of Selectmen to improve the signage in town.
Valerie Sorrels of Dudley Pond Road asked why her house number needed to be changed when there was no more room for growth in her address area? Ms. Marsland said the system is not based on how many houses are on a street, but on the distance your house is from the start of the road. Ms. Morse said your street might not grow anymore, but we need a consistent system; the footage allows for growth on other streets.
Dennis McAfee asked if it was possible for the Board to bring this vote to the public? Mr. Johnston noted that the Board must make the decision based on the statute. Mr. Watman said he understood if he was unhappy, but the law says it must be the Board that decides; if he had any concerns about this, he should contact the State legislature to change the statute.
Steve Burritt asked if the advantage in using distance could be explained? Mr. Gilbert said researching this system allowed the town to identify the water sources; he can subtract your number from this source and figure out how many feet of hose he would need to get water to your house. The current fire truck carries 1000 feet of hose; the beauty of this system is that whoever is in charge can calculate on the run; and can call for more help if needed.
Mr. Watman noted there would be one more chance for questions.
Peter Bergendahl said he understands the need for this system, and he recommends it but he questioned the measurement of his area. Mr. Gilbert said he would be happy to come and remeasure with him.
Caleb Dobbins asked if all town lots are on this handout, as one of his is not? Mr. Gilbert said only active driveways were measured and reported on this handout.
Mark Anderson said a GPS system would not be shut down during a national emergency; it is highly efficient; he has piloted with them. His question was to the cost of changing multiple lots? Mr. Watman said no change to deeds is needed; however, there is cost of time and money to change a current address. All will have to pay based on their needs. This is being proposed because it is the best for the town; the current situation is a mess.
Hearing no other questions, Mr. Watman asked to waive questions from the Board in order to proceed directly to the comments from the audience. The Board agreed.
PUBLIC OPINION
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing to comments from the Public.
John Kjellman said he commended this plan; it is time for a change and we can all handle this. He is a systems guy and GPS is a system; 911 is a system; they work because they are a system. A few minutes does make a difference in finding someone who needs emergency attention. He urged the Board to approve the proposal.
A gentleman said the departments had done an excellent job; however, he suggested the Board hold off to do due diligence on a GPS system; it is not expensive to implement, and there will likely be enough people to donate money for this system for EMS. More than one alternative needs to be examined.
Ted Chumas of 8 Pinehill Road said he understands the problems very well, but the solution is too premature; there are complications with this system, too. He urged the Board to table this proposal and research a GPS system.
Bob Galster said he noted discrepancies in this system; nothing on his drive needs to be changed; he recommended only fixing what was broken.
Karen Philbrick said she wants safety, but this system does not solve all the problems; there has to be other solutions.
A gentlewoman said this was a good presentation. Yes, this would be inconvenient; but if there are no other changes for 20 to 25 years, maybe it is worth the effort. A GPS system will cost more. She supports the proposal.
Joe Kangas said there is no simple way to renumber, and thanked the Board and the departments for the informational meeting.
Steve Burritt said he approves the proposal. The system will work here. The current dispatch center is not set up for a GPS system; we would need to manually punch in the information at this point. This 20th century solution will get us a long ways down the road. He urged a yes vote.
Jeff Roach agreed and said the presentation was very good; if people think there are no problems now with the current system that will change as problems arise.
Scott Osgood said he would ask the Board to consider what the town is giving up; this is Henniker, NH, with a hodgepodge system currently, but it is a small town, not a big town; do we need this level of fixing? This system is still full of imperfections; it works both ways; he has been on the Planning Board for seven years and renumbering has never come up as an issue. He opposed the proposal.
Paul Brien said he recognized the value of the system and wanted to keep a 2-digit address; he preferred the suffix option.
Ron Hess said he has worked with GPS for 20 plus years, and a unit in a car does not have the number of satellite usage and factors that a town needs. Fewer factors used in a system can disrupt it, which is why hikers get lost because they get false readings. A GPS system is for larger cities at this time; we cannot afford that.
Bob Gosse said he opposed this system; it was not logical to change his number on his road; he urged changing only those needing to be changed.
Don Armstrong said all 911 centers are the same. The only place GPS is used is on brand new cell phones. 911 uses the billing address for the phone. This is a volunteer fire department and getting a GPS system for all of them will not work; it is not that hard to do to change an address.
Joe Wegman said he understands the system, but he doesn’t like change; he urged changing only what is needed.
Grace Cohen said the issue is a small town. There are many inconveniences, but we are not a small town anymore. She reluctantly supports it; saving minutes can make a difference.
A gentleman said he wanted to keep the same address and assign E911 signs to the houses.
Leo Quinn pointed out that he guesses there are no fire hydrants on lots of roads; he urged them to make sure the information is accurate.
Hearing no other questions, Mr. Watman closed the segment for public questions and opened the floor for questions from Board members.
BOARD MEMBER QUESTIONS
Ms. Morse asked if the town is responsible for updating the voter registration list, and Mr. Flynn said yes, it would be updated. Rod Pimentel asked if some tweaks to the system is expected for this vote? Mr. Watman said it depended on them motion.
Hearing no further questions and no comments from the Board, he closed the Public Hearing and reminded the audience that this next section of the Hearing was closed to all public input, and was only for the Board to discuss the issue before them.
Moved that Town Administrator oversee the renumbering of all the Town=s streets using the system developed by the Town=s public safety department chiefs. This decision shall be effective on MARCH 15, 2007 for ALL roads except for Bowers Road, Morse Road, Craney Hill Road, Craney Pond Road, Mount Hunger Road, Shaker Hill Road, Grove Street and Warner Road. The effective date for these streets shall be determined by the Board of Selectmen when it acts upon the recommendations of the Highway Safety Committee. The Town Administrator shall implement an appeal procedure and formally notify all affected citizens after all appeals are handled.@
Seconded by Cheryl Morse.
Mr. Watman said he had heard it all. The current renumbering was a mess now and it would be costly to change in any way. The needs are obvious; if all three public safety departments would be asking for this on a personal level, he would do it; this is betterment for everyone. We need to respond now; this is not a foolproof system but the Board would allow some tweaking. The problem is growing; and it has been made worse over a number of years with the piecemeal changes. This is why we are here tonight. It is inevitable that someone will suffer unnecessarily; there could be a better system later, but now there is not. The Board of Selectmen had the courage to ask for a stable budget last year in light of the revaluation and he hoped the Board would have equal courage to stand up and be courageous for the emergency response departments. A small town deserves public safety.
Mr. Johnston said he disagreed with the proposal, but he understands the safety issue. However, safety is not the only job of the Board of Selectmen; the well being of a human being is not simply defined by safety. We can fix the real problem; some of it is not broken. Maybe we do not have the technology now; but it is not an emergency now either. We are rushing into this. We should all do what we think is right.
Mr. Pimentel said he had voted against this proposal before. He has been a Selectman for nine years and the town has gone through a lot of numbering. That doesn’t fix anything, and until we do a uniform system, it will not be fixed. This is a permanent solution that will not contradict a GPS system later; he will support this proposal tonight.
Ms. Morse said she wanted to respond to the comments that this doesn’t apply to me and there are no problems on my street. There are two famous issues where these comments were also said, in the 1950’s with bussing kids to town and the 1970’s with the sewer project. In each case, there were about 30% that would not benefit from these changes. Sometimes you need to benefit the town over the individual. This is not just about me; you are giving up for the larger group; I have more sentiment for people than my house number.
Mr. Damour said he had listened and heard some of the same things over the last decade to wait for another system. The quality of life is not based on a house number. We have never had a system. These are volunteer professionals. This is not a perfect system, but it is time we had a uniform system.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion; the Motion was approved on a vote of 4-1 (Mr. Damour – Yes, Mr. Johnston – No; Mr. Watman – Yes; Ms. Morse – Yes; Mr. Pimentel – Yes).
Ms. Morse reminded people of the information the town had gathered to improve the town right now.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:42pm.
Sincerely,
Amy Jowers
Clerk to the Selectmen
APPROVED
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Town Hall
Selectmen Present: Tom Watman, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston
Selectmen Absent: Rod Pimentel
Town Administrator Present: Peter Flynn
Guests Present: Stephany Marchut Lavallee, Ron Lavallee, Carl Hamel, William McGirr
6:00 P.M. Review and sign Consent Agenda
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited at 6:15 P.M.
MOTION by Joe Damour to approve the Consent Agenda items, as presented. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 4-0.
PUBLIC FORUM
Stephany Lavallee distributed a flyer on a speaking event sponsored by the Domestic Violence Council. She asked about the status of research on potential code violations on a Peasley Road property, which she brought to the Board’s attention in August. Tom Watman asked the Town Administrator to report on the status of this issue to the Board, as well as ensure that if the Town Inspector had not already visited the address, to do so before this report.
Ron Lavallee asked about the two elm trees planted on the Eastern parcel of the old paper mill site on Western Avenue, which is for sale. After some discussion, the Board agreed by consensus to have the trees moved as soon as possible to the Amey Brook Park or another suitable site, as determined by the Parks Department and the Town Administrator.
Item #1: PUBLIC HEARING – Amendment to Solid Waste/Transfer Station Ordinance – Third Reading
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing at 6:23PM on an Amendment to the Solid Waste/Transfer Station Ordinance, noting this is the Third Reading. He opened the floor to Peter Flynn.
Mr. Flynn provided the history of this Amendment, noting it had been amended to clarify measurement at the Second Reading, and so therefore was required to be reviewed at a Third Reading.
Mr. Watman opened the Hearing to questions from the Public. Mr. Lavallee asked if this applies only to computers; Mr. Flynn noted this Amendment adds computers to the ordinance, but any screen with a diagonal measurement of 4” or more will be covered and require a fee for disposal.
Mr. Hamel asked if this is a legal procedure, and Mr. Watman noted it is because it clarifies the original proposal.
Mr. Watman opened the Hearing to questions from the Board, but hearing none, he asked for opinions from the Public.
Mr. Hamel said he opposes this Amendment because he thought this should be voted on at Town Meeting; the town has the right to vote on it. Mr. Lavallee said he disagreed with this idea and supports the Amendment; however, he would like to have the fee cover the true cost of the disposal. Mr. Watman noted this Amendment was initiated by a State Law to take effect in July of 2007; the town is expecting to absorb some of this cost. Mr. Hamel and Ms. Lavallee stated they had heard the true cost of disposing a 4” screen of any type is $10 to $15.
Hearing no other Public opinions and no Board opinions, Mr. Watman requested a motion on this Amendment.
MOTION by Joe Damour to adopt the Amendment to the Solid Waste/Transfer Station Ordinance that adds to the Disposal Fee section “Computer monitors, television(s), or any other electronic visual screens with diagonal dimensions of four inches (4”) or more”, with the effective date of July 1, 2007 when the State Law takes effect. Seconded by Cheryl Morse.
Mr. Johnston noted that there is no State Law that requires a town to accept this type of disposal item, so this is a service offered to residents; it is appropriate to charge a fee for it.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion; the Motion was unanimously approved 4-0.
Mr. Watman closed the Public Hearing at 6:38PM.
Item #2: PUBLIC HEARING – Amend fee schedule to include authority to assess a $5.00 fee for computer monitors, televisions, or any other electronic visual screens with diagonal dimensions of four inches or more.
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing at 6:38PM on an Amendment to the Fee Schedule to Include Authority to assess a $5.00 fee for computer monitors, televisions or any other electronic visual screens with diagonal dimensions of four inches or more. He opened the floor to Mr. Flynn for his presentation.
Mr. Flynn noted this is the Second Reading of the Amendment, and is based on the recommendation of the Superintendent of the Solid Waste/Transfer Station. It sets a fee for the disposal of any screen having a diagonal measurement of 4” or more.
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing to questions from the Public.
Ms. Lavallee asked if the $5 is just for computers; Mr. Watman said no, it is for all screens measuring 4” or more. Ms. Lavallee asked if the fee could be raised to $10 or $15, and Mr. Watman said if a Motion is made asking for that.
Hearing no other questions from the Public and no questions from the Board, Mr. Watman opened the Hearing to opinions from the Audience.
Mr. Lavallee said the fees should reflect the costs of handling, and he hoped the Board would consider a higher charge.
Hearing no other opinions from the Public, Mr. Watman opened the Hearing to opinions from the Board.
Ms. Morse said she would like more information on how many of each screen types are being disposed of, in order to make sure this does not hurt one particular group in town, such as senior citizens.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to adopt the Amendment to the fee schedule to include authority to assess a $5.00 fee for computer monitors, televisions, or any other electronic visual screens with diagonal dimensions of four inches or more. Seconded by Cheryl Morse.
MOTION by Tom Watman to Amend the Motion and increase the $5.00 fee to $15.00. There was no Second.
Mr. Johnston said he is inclined to agree to Mr. Watman’s Motion; however, he would need more information on the true cost of a disposal and also wants to make sure the fee is not so high that people dump the screens in woods. Mr. Watman said this would happen if we did not allow them to dispose of them at the Station. Ms. Morse asked if we could pass the original Motion and request more information. Mr. Watman noted that this is just the Second Reading of this Amendment, and therefore, more information could possibly be obtained by the Third Reading.
Ms. Morse withdrew her Second and Mr. Johnston withdrew his Motion.
MOTION by Tom Watman to adopt the Amendment to the fee schedule to include authority to assess a $15.00 fee for computer monitors, televisions, or any other electronic visual screens with diagonal dimensions of four inches or more. There was no Second.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston adopt the Amendment to the fee schedule to include authority to assess a $10.00 fee for computer monitors, televisions, or any other electronic visual screens with diagonal dimensions of four inches or more. Seconded by Cheryl Morse.
Ms. Morse asked if this fee could still be changed at the next Hearing, and Mr. Watman said yes, as long as it does not change the Ordinance. Ms. Morse requested the Superintendent of the Solid Waste/Transfer Station report on the disposals of types of screens and their true costs.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion; the Motion was unanimously approved 4-0.
Mr. Watman closed the Public Hearing at 6:48PM.
Item #3: George Hildum, Town Assessor Contractor and Craig Nichols, DRA – Discussion pertaining to concerns about future assessments.
George Hildum, Town Assessor, updated the Board on the recent revaluation, noting that out of 109 abatements, there were only 4 appeals; he thought the town had been very responsive.
Mr. Hildum said he and Craig Nichols from the NH Department of Revenue Administration were here tonight to urge the Board to seriously consider proposing a Warrant Article at the 2007 Town Meeting to eliminate the exemption for a building permit for projects costing $5,000 or more based on materials. If that was not possible, then the Board should consider reinstating RSA 74 Inventory in order to conform to DRA’s requirements in keeping assessment records up to date. The $5,000 exemption is a significant assessment issue because it does not allow the town to fairly and equitably assess the tax on new structures and building improvements. If this is not addressed, the town will have to do a complete revaluation in five years, rather than being able to do a partial revaluation, at half the cost, because assessment records are inaccurate.
Mr. Watman asked what the normal cost procedure is to maintain assessment data. Mr. Hildum said it is different each year, but it averages to be about $30 per unit cost; this is his normal job, but it becomes a shell game when people have a $5,000 exemption to work on their buildings.
Mr. Johnston noted the Planning Board did try at last year’s town meeting to eliminate this exemption, but it failed. The Planning Board was discussing another Article this year; he just didn’t know the final decision yet. Mr. Nichols said it would help if the Planning Board and the Board of Selectmen were proposing this Article. After some discussion, the Board noted the Board of Selectmen could propose an Article regarding a zoning amendment.
Mr. Watman asked if the $5,000 exemption is illegal, but Mr. Nichols said no. Mr. Watman asked for cost figures on how much the town has lost or would lose if the exemption remained in place. Mr. Hildum referred them to his 2005 letter, which noted the less expensive option to do a partial revaluation, if assessment records are kept up to date. The Board discussed other town revaluations, including New Boston, and doing revaluations in a cyclical process. Mr. Hildum noted the disadvantage to this process is that the town will always be behind with years 5,4,3 and 2. The Board noted this issue has to be changed by the voters, and Mr. Nichols responded that should the town fail to change this exemption, the State will come in and possibly do a full revaluation of the town, if necessary, with the town paying for the entire cost; right now the State does some of these services for free. The Board discussed the next revaluation date of 2010.
MOTION by Tom Watman to direct the Town Administrator to work with the Town Attorney to draft a Warrant Article to eliminate the $5,000 exemption and reinstate the regulation that a building permit, but no fee, is required for any project costing $1,000 or less; a building permit and fees are required for projects costing $1,001 or more. Seconded by Cordell Johnston.
The Board confirmed this Motion brings the Warrant Article back to them for further discussion, but it still creates a situation where two years will have already passed before the exemption takes effect. The Board requested additional cost information from Mr. Hildum and Mr. Nichols, noting that simple and clear language would work best.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion; the Motion was unanimously approved 4-0.
Mr. Hamel expressed his concern that Mr. Hildum and the Board are implying that residents are trying to defraud the town. Mr. Hildum said he is not saying that; the real value of a project that may cost below $5,000 in materials may be of higher value when on the market; it is not fair to other residents when that is not taken into consideration in assessing property values. The Board noted that this requested Warrant Article would be reviewed and discussed at future meetings; there will be time for input on these and other concerns.
Mr. Watman asked for information on RSA 74 Inventory. Mr. Hildum said this is a form sent out to all residents every year and due for return by April of each year; the resident is required to report all new developments on the property. It also helps the town for sewer and water billing, and dog licenses. There are penalties if not responded to, although the town does allow for them to be abated.
MOTION by Tom Watman to request the Town Administrator to submit to the Board a proposal with supporting documentation on restoring the RSA 74 Inventory process, in conjunction with the proposed zoning Warrant Article. Seconded by Cordell Johnston.
The Board discussed the pros and cons of this system, noting it had been stopped in the late 1990’s and could be cumbersome to follow.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion; the Motion was unanimously approved 4-0.
Item #4: 2006 Annual raises for eligible town employees
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to grant an exemption to the practice adopted on May 16, 2006 dealing with providing employees a cost of Living Adjustment upon the anniversary of their hiring date and a satisfactory performance review; in recognition of the appreciable efforts and accomplishments of our Town Employees and to bridge the gap in income created by this new policy, all eligible employees shall receive a single payment reflecting the COLA they would have received from January 1, 2006 until their anniversary date in 2006; this exemption only applies to the current year and this action serves as notice that annual raises (referred to as COLA on the wage scales from the State of NH contract) will be in effect at each employee’s anniversary hiring date. Seconded by Cordell Johnston.
Ms. Morse explained that this Motion is to restore the intended process for granting salary adjustments to town employees on their anniversary hire date. The cost of this one time payment would be about $17,500. Mr. Flynn confirmed this is available in department’s budgets. Mr. Damour noted a future issue might be the Board’s interpretation of the current town policy.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on this Motion; the Motion was unanimously approved 4-0.
Item #5: Review and adopt minutes of Board of Selectmen meeting on October 3, 2006 and Public Hearing on September 26, 2006 plus previous sealed non public minutes.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the 9/26/06 public hearing minutes, as amended. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 4-0.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the Board of Selectmen meeting minutes of 10/03/06, as written. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 4-0.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to unseal the minutes of the following meetings, due to the restriction of public knowledge to have expired: two sets for December 7, 2004; two sets for June 21, 2005. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 4-0.
Item #6: Nomination and selection of new Town Attorney
Mr. Johnston reported to the Board that reference checks on Upton & Hatfield for the purpose of hiring them as the Town Counsel had satisfactory results. Mr. Watman noted no further action is needed, and further, the Special Committee established for the purpose of searching for a town counsel is now disbanded with great appreciation from the Board for their work.
Item #7: Road identification issues-discussion and update
Mr. Flynn reported to the Board that he had researched the roads of concern to Shawn Richard and was recommending this matter now be referred to the Town Highway Safety Committee.
MOTION by Joe Damour to refer to the Highway Safety Committee the clarification of the following roads, as well as any others of concern: Bowers Road, Craney Hill Road, Craney Pond Road, Mt. Hunger Road, Shaker Hill Road and Hemlock Corner Loop with a final recommendation to be presented to the Board. Seconded by Tom Watman.
The Board clarified that any renaming of roads would be referred to them for final approval, including naming roads after military veterans.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion; the Motion was unanimously approved 4-0.
Item #8: Perambulation with Town of Weare
Mr. Flynn noted the Town of Weare is requesting the Town of Henniker to perambulate the corners of town boundaries. This is State law and is required to be completed every 5 to 7 years. The Board requested Mr. Flynn make the necessary arrangements to complete this request.
PUBLIC FORUM
Carl Hamel asked if only Board members are allowed to make motions. Mr. Watman said yes. Mr. Hamel wanted to know why his house number is 177 in the renumbering scheme. Mr. Watman invited Mr. Hamel to bring up his question at the public hearing scheduled on this issue for October 26, 2006 at 6:30pm at the Community Center.
Item #9: Town Administrators Report
Mr. Flynn said the construction on Old Concord Road has started; some of the digging was done in the last few days. He noted the West Henniker Paper Mill Committee continues to meet; he is not sure they will have a Warrant Article to present at the 2007 Town Meeting. There is nothing new to report on PAYT. The Waste Water Engineering Project is moving along very well. The Mobile Home and RV taxation issue is a work continuing in progress. The Salary and Benefit study will be reported on later this meeting. The case of Hanson vs Henniker and Richard is still scheduled to go to court. The sidewalk issues downtown will be ready by budget time. The next Public Hearing for street renumbering the entire town will be held at the Community Center on Thursday, October 26, 2006 at 6:30PM.
Mr. Flynn reported the non-confidential portions of the Emergency Management Plan will be on the website by the next Board meeting; he is still working to complete the updates. The town received a compromise response from the Department of Transportation regarding the temporary exit ramps on 202/9; the State is willing to put in an exit/entrance that will not be of permanent use, but only in emergencies, and it will not be one of the current ramps but rebuilt. The Solid Waste revision was completed this evening. The Skateboard Park was dismantled, with agreement from several former Skateboard Committee members. It was cleaned up by the Parks Department. The Road Management Plan Committee membership has been assigned: Rod Pimentel, Selectman; Steve Connor, CIP; and, Gary Guzouskas, Planning Board. Mr. Pimentel will be scheduling a meeting. The Road Identification issues were discussed on the agenda this evening.
The Board discussed the response from the Coop, noting it was also now clear that the potential legal liability of up to $500,000 was the main reason the Coop was postponing this project.
Mr. Watman requested the budget process be added to the next agenda.
Mr. Flynn requested the Board’s consideration of allowing him to obtain approval of hiring recommendations for part-time positions by placing them on the Consent Agenda or requesting them by email or phone polls.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to grant authority to the Town Administrator to obtain Board approval to fill temporary, part-time appointments by placing on the Consent Agenda, noting the effective date of hire and the salary. Seconded by Tom Watman and unanimously approved on a vote of 4-0.
Mr. Flynn referred to the Board the bridge reports from the State, noting the Ramsdell Bridge has been recommended to be closed unless traffic is advised to not drive on either edge of the bridge. The Board reached a consensus that the Town Administrator is to take proper precautions to restrict traffic to the central portion of the bridge.
Item #10: Selectmen’s Report
Ms. Morse updated the Board on the Salary and Benefits Study, noting books have been provided to the Board with updated salary information; the Committee is now looking at the benefits issue. It should be completed by November 1st, which is the next meeting. At the Board’s request, Ms. Morse agreed the Committee would also recommend how often this study should occur.
Ms. Morse requested the Town Administrator notify Father Mark about the pond issue by the St. Theresa Church; Mr. Flynn agreed. Ms. Morse asked Mr. Flynn if the issue of concrete sidewalks could be conveyed to the Highway Superintendent; Mr. Flynn agreed. The Board discussed the water main replacement and the road repairs for Western Avenue.
The Board discussed the possible use of the tax analysis completed by Mr. Johnston; he noted he would bring any future ideas to the Board for consideration.
MOTION by Joe Damour to adjourn. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 4-0.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 P.M.
Sincerely,
Amy Jowers
Clerk to the Selectmen
APPROVED
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Town Hall
Selectmen Present: Tom Watman, Rod Pimentel, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour, and Cordell Johnston
Town Administrator Present: Peter Flynn
Guests Present: Jean Lewis, Tim Russell, Eleanor Kjellman, Shawn Richard, Bob Pennock, and Carl Hamel
6:00 P.M. Review and sign Consent Agenda
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited at 6:15 P.M.
MOTION by Joe Damour to approve the Consent Agenda items, as presented. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 5-0.
PUBLIC FORUM
Shawn Richard asked about the new address changes that were approved at the Public Hearing last week. He has to renew his driver’s license and wanted to know when the renumbering will take effect or could this be possibly overturned by the Zoning Board or another entity. Cordell Johnston noted it is not a zoning issue. Tom Watman said the approval to renumber five town streets was on a vote of 3-2, so it is possible this vote could be reversed at a future public hearing; otherwise the renumbering will take effect on January 15, 2007. Mr. Richard asked if the public could comment on a motion or an amendment to a motion once it is presented. Mr. Watman said according to the rules, generally no, but occasionally it is allowed. Mr. Richard pointed out that the amendment to the motion was not presented until after the public comment and debate portion and thus no debate occurred during the public portion. Mr. Watman said the next Public Hearing on renumbering the entire town is scheduled and will provide an opportunity for debate. Mr. Richard said some people will start changing addresses now without waiting until the next public hearing; the letters with the change information have already been handed out. Cheryl Morse said she plans to try having both numbers put on her new driver’s license. The Board advised Mr. Richard to wait until the second Public Hearing is completed before changing his address.
Carl Hamel said he serves on the Abandoned Cemetery Committee and asked if the town’s abandoned cemeteries could be added to new town maps, which may be digital. Mr. Watman said there has been discussion about digital maps and money has been budgeted for the Planning Board but no one has been hired to accomplish this. Peter Flynn said it would probably not happen this year. Mr. Watman asked Mr. Flynn to pass on this request to the Planning Board and Ging Blanchard. Mr. Hamel said people coming into town looking for the cemeteries need to know where to look and it would be convenient if town maps depicted them. Ms. Morse said the Historical Committee might know where they are located; Mr. Watman said Wayne Colby or Martha Taylor might know, as well.
Item #1: PUBLIC HEARING – Amendment to the Solid Waste/Transfer Station Ordinance – Second Reading
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing at 6:30 P.M. regarding the Second Reading of an Amendment to the Solid Waste/Transfer Station Ordinance. He reviewed the procedures for hearings. He opened the floor for Mr. Flynn to present information.
Mr. Flynn said Bob Pennock, Superintendent of the Transfer Station, had presented additions to the list under Section 101-16, (2) Users Fees, last meeting because of a state mandated fee charge to be instituted next year. This amendment was changed slightly from last week’s discussion by removing the request to allow the first computer, television or any larger than 4” screen to be dropped off at the Station for free; it would be difficult to track. He noted there are no fees discussed in the ordinance but they are asking for a $5 fee, in a separate request. Mr. Pennock asked for the Amendment to read four inches or more with diagonal dimensions for screens. The Board agreed, and also edited the amendment for grammar.
Mr. Watman opened the hearing for public questions. Mr. Hamel said at the last Town Meeting he provided an article to prevent Pay as You Throw (PAYT) and he believes this would be part of such a program. He asked to delay this new process until after the 2007 Town Meeting so the town could discuss it. The Board confirmed the state mandate takes effect July 2007, so if there was interest by the Board, it could be delayed. Jean Lewis asked if this idea and fee are mandated by the state. Mr. Pennock said the fee amount is not, but the town will be charged for the disposal of television or computer screens of four inches or more, as they can no longer be burned or buried; they must be recycled. Mr. Hamel asked what the actual cost of disposal would be. Mr. Pennock said disposal costs are by the pound; he uses twelve cents per pound.
Hearing no other questions from the public, Mr. Watman opened the hearing for Board Questions. Ms. Morse asked if all items with user fee charges are on this list. Mr. Pennock said no, some items are disposed of in a different manner. Ms. Morse asked if categories could be delineated to separate some items out from PAYT. Rod Pimentel said they are all PAYT, in essence, but they are disposed of differently and have different costs. Mr. Johnston asked how fees are documented, if they are not included in the ordinance. Mr. Flynn said they are posted at the facility and recorded in the minutes of Selectmen meetings. Mr. Damour said a public hearing might be necessary to change a fee. Mr. Watman agreed, and noted the third reading will include a public hearing on adding this fee. He asked if there is a place that lists all user fees in the ordinance. Mr. Damour suggested an addendum to the ordinance. Mr. Flynn said he will investigate and provide that information at the next meeting.
Hearing no other questions from the Board, Mr. Watman opened the hearing for public Comments. Mr. Hamel suggested the fee be changed from $5 to $25 but provide coupons for residents in order to allow an exemption for a certain number of items. Mr. Watman said that might be considered. Ms. Lewis said she thinks this seems pretty fair to recycle and get rid of items that are costly to dispose; she does not want the town to lose money. Mr. Pimentel said this is a way to offset a cost for the town, but waste disposal is a losing proposition.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to schedule for October 17th the Third Reading of an Amendment to the Solid Waste Ordinance, as amended, and a second Public Hearing for the request to charge $5 for the disposal of computer, television and other screens 4” or more diagonally. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Watman asked Mr. Pennock to check other towns or options for user fee amounts.
Item #2: Request for non-public session per RSA 91-A: 3, II (d) Re: Update on sale of Town owned land
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to enter into non-public session pursuant to RSA 91-A: 3, II (d). Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0 (Joe Damour – Yes, Cordell Johnston – Yes, Tom Watman – Yes, Cheryl Morse – Yes, Rod Pimentel - Yes).
The Board entered into non-public session at 6:50 PM.
(Non-public minutes separate)
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to reenter public session. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0 (Joe Damour – Yes, Cordell Johnston – Yes, Tom Watman – Yes, Cheryl Morse – Yes, Rod Pimentel - Yes).
The Board reentered public session at 7:05 P.M.
Item #3: Chief Tim Russell – Discussion of Goals and Objectives
Mr. Flynn presented the Goals and Objectives for Tim Russell, Chief of the Police Department, noting he has worked closely with Mr. Russell to achieve these goals. Mr. Russell reviewed his goals and objectives for 2006 and updated the Board on each item: increase visibility of the department; provide educational classes to the public; work closely with contractors to update the facility; attend management-related classes; and, mentor subordinates. He noted the number one complaint is speeding on town streets. The Police Department is working hard on directed patrols and setting up radar sites, as well as looking at future efforts such as citizen academies. Mr. Watman asked what type of academies. Mr. Russell said issues on motor vehicle law, juvenile law, criminal law, and domestic violence. Ms. Morse asked about telemarketing scams and if the local police force is the appropriate place to report these items. Mr. Russell said yes, at least to begin that process. Mr. Watman asked what the effective date of these goals is and Mr. Flynn said this summer and going forward.
Mr. Watman opened the discussion for changes or suggestions. Mr. Johnston suggested listing cost reduction as a goal; one of the Board’s responsibilities is to respond to concerns about taxes. Mr. Russell said most of his costs are out of his control as they are personnel costs. Mr. Watman said the point is to try to be creative in reducing costs; he suggested looking at the tax analysis completed by Mr. Johnston and posted on the town website. Mr. Russell said he is also a taxpayer and they are constantly looking for grants and ways to defer costs. Hearing no other suggestions, Mr. Watman said the Board appreciates all the work the Chief does for the town.
Mr. Watman requested the Town Administrator provide finalized and dated copies of the goals and objectives of all department heads, as they are presented and reviewed by the Board.
Mr. Russell asked for a request to hire Dawn Bedard for the position of crossing guard in front of the town school; he would like her to start immediately, as she is a great candidate.
MOTION by Joe Damour to appoint Dawn Bedard to a Crossing Guard position in the Police Department, with pay at $10 per hour. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Item #4: Review and adopt public and non-public minutes of 9/19/06.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept the public minutes of 9/19/06, as written. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to accept the non-public minutes of 9/19/06, as written. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
The Board requested Mr. Flynn review previously sealed minutes, in order to open those that are ready, and to bring any issues to the Board to further discuss. It was noted that if the Motion has a specific date or a date of action that has passed, there is no need to vote to open the sealed minutes.
Mr. Flynn noted that the position of Clerk to the Selectmen will be advertised this week.
Item #5: Transfer Station/Recycling Center hiring’s for Operator position (Temporary full time and temporary part time positions)
Mr. Flynn and Mr. Pennock requested the Board’s approval to appoint Randall Jorgenson of Peterborough to a temporary full time position of Transfer Station Recycling Center Assistant, Grade 16, Step 2. There were no questions or comments on the nomination.
MOTION by Joe Damour to appoint Randall Jorgenson to a temporary full time position of Transfer Station Recycling Center Assistant with pay of $14.06 per hour. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Pennock noted the second request is to appoint Nathan Harrison of Hopkinton to a temporary part time position of Transfer Station Recycling Center Attendant, Parks/Properties Laborer at $13 per hour. Ms. Morse asked how long the position will need to be filled and Mr. Pennock said until February or March 2007, until the permanent employee returns.
MOTION by Joe Damour to appoint Nathan Harrison to a temporary part time position of Transfer Station Recycling Center Attendant/Parks and Properties Laborer with pay of $13.00 per hour with a $1.00 recommended increase after 90 days, if job performance is acceptable. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Item #6: Discussion concerning Road Management Plan – Tom Watman
Mr. Watman provided a written agreement between the Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board to form a Road Management Committee for the purpose of developing a proposed comprehensive “Road Management Plan” for the town. This Committee’s work would include developing: 1) an inventory of all existing roads, with details; 2) a record of the last ten years major repairs completed, including description of repairs; 3) an evaluation of the current road condition and anticipated major repairs; and, 4) a minimum of a six-year prioritized plan for road improvements based upon the best available information. Mr. Watman noted the Committee would consist of one Selectman, one member of the Planning Board and one member of the Capital Improvements committee, as chosen by each committee from its membership. The Board of Selectmen may appoint up to four additional members to the committee. The Highway Superintendent and the Town Engineers shall advise the committee and provide information as requested. The Committee shall provide at least a preliminary report no later than November 15, 2006 and a final report no later than January 15, 2007 to the Board of Selectmen for appropriate action and to the Planning Board and Capital Improvements Committee for use, as they see fit.
MOTION by Tom Watman to establish the Road Management Committee, as presented. Seconded by Cheryl Morse.
Mr. Damour asked if this is to be a one-year committee and Mr. Watman said yes, but the Board of Selectmen could extend it. Mr. Damour suggested adding “at current year prices”, then, to the Motion. The Board agreed to this Amendment by consensus.
Mr. Pimentel asked why the Highway Department couldn’t provide this information; why a committee is needed. Mr. Watman said it is to maintain the peace between the Selectmen and the Planning Board, as well as provide the same information to several other committees at the same time. The Board and the committees each have access to different resources; this will provide information to all three groups in one document. Mr. Pimentel said his concern is the Highway Department has formula knowledge to schedule road repairs; a committee may politicize this process. Ms. Morse said the town previously had a Public Works and Highway Department with engineers; now we have only a Highway Department. This Committee could provide a document that pulls together resources and provides the structure to organize support and enhance the work of the Highway Department. Mr. Damour said he believes the Committee will be useful for the Planning Board. Mr. Watman noted that should the Highway Department have issues with this Committee’s work, they would need to be presented to the Selectmen, as the final report comes to them. The town will have documentation of the Committee’s work and process. Ms. Morse commented that impact fees would still be required. Mr. Watman said if the impact fee work is not completed, then the issue will come back to the Board. Mr. Johnston asked who would be the Board’s representative and Mr. Watman asked Mr. Pimentel to accept the assignment. Mr. Pimentel accepted the assignment.
Mr. Richard suggested the State Department of Transportation as a good resource; he is not sure we need a committee. Mr. Watman said new road classifications are being used and there may be other information that the town does not have.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion, as amended, and it was unanimously approved 5-0.
MOTION by Mr. Watman to nominate Rod Pimentel as the Board of Selectmen representative to the Road Management Committee. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Item #7: Discussion of Town Counsel candidate
Mr. Johnston updated the Board on the selection of a town counsel, noting the selection is down to one, as two other firms have declined to take on additional clients. The remaining firm is Upton and Hatfield and he asked for direction from the Board on the next step. Mr. Watman said he is satisfied with Upton and Hatfield; they represent about 30 towns including Hopkinton, New London and Deering. Mr. Damour suggested checking with some of the other towns they represent to see if they are satisfied. It was discussed whether to hire them on a monthly retainer or pay by the hour. Mr. Johnston said it was not necessary to decide the payment method now in order to retain the firm. The Board agreed to check references as the next step.
MOTION by Tom Watman to retain the firm of Upton and Hatfield as the town attorney, subject to the Special Committee’s successful reference checks. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
The Board discussed the pros and cons of billing versus contract fees.
Item #8: Town Administrators Report
Mr. Flynn said Perm-A-Drive personnel were at Old Concord Road checking the road crack last week. They had received the letter from the town and also the check. They are putting together a plan to repair the crack and will probably hire an outside firm to do the repairs. Mr. Flynn then brought up an emergency situation with a leak in the town hall roof, which is causing damage in the lobby. It has become a severe leak in the last two weeks. Bob Pennock had requested a Northpoint Roofing representative to come by today to look at the leak and give an estimate. Northpoint Roofing has been working with New England College on some of their building repairs. The representative said the company will stop another job to come in for this repair. The entire roof replacement will be requested from the CIP. Mr. Flynn asked for the authority to expend $1,650.00 to conduct the repair.
Ms. Morse asked about the square foot size of the roof, and it was estimated at 300 sq. ft. Mr. Pimentel asked about the funds used for the town hall renovation and whether all were expended. He is looking for another source for the funds in order to do the roof all at once. Mr. Flynn noted this is an emergency expense to stop the leak before it does any more damage. The roof would then be half done and the expense for the other half would be requested. Mr. Watman asked if any steps had been taken to protect the mural; it was reported that no steps had been taken because of the concern that it could do more damage; an expert on this was needed. A lengthy discussion ensued about protecting the mural. Mr. Flynn noted water is saturating the plaster, but not dripping on the mural.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the Northpoint Roofing, Inc. estimate and to expend $1,650.00 to conduct emergency repairs to the Town Hall roof and to further instruct the Town Administrator to take all prudent steps to prevent further damage to the mural in the lobby. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Flynn continued his report, noting the West Henniker Paper Mill Committee met last night; they have a sign for the walking trail. There is nothing new to report on PAYT. The Waste Water Engineering Project is being completed and Ken Levesque is doing a fantastic job. The Mobile Home and RV taxation issue is a work in progress. The Salary and Benefit study canceled their last meeting, so there is no report. The case of Hanson vs Henniker and Richard is going to court, probably for trial. The sidewalk issues downtown will be ready by budget time. The next Public Hearing for street renumbering the entire town will be held at the Community Center on Thursday, October 26, 2006 at 6:30 P.M.
Mr. Flynn reported the Bandstand was dedicated on October 24th and was held inside due to rain. There is nothing new on the tax rate analysis. The Emergency Management Plan was discussed at the department head meeting and he intends to meet with Bill Belanger to discuss completing the updates. The letter to the Department of Transportation was sent with a copy of the petition. The Solid Waste revision was discussed tonight and the next reading will be on October 17th. The new salary and benefits booklet was given out and is based on the rates as they were budgeted for this year. The budget schedule is set for Saturday meetings on November 4th and 18th. Ms. Morse asked about the sidewalks and input from the schools. Mr. Flynn said he is putting together a deadline for the information to be provided. Ms. Morse suggested doing the sidewalks in cement rather than pavement, as it lasts longer.
Mr. Richard asked about road name corrections that were being directed to the Town Administrator at the Public Hearing on street renumbering. A discussion ensued about solving the issues. Mr. Watman requested Mr. Flynn provide a list of concerns and the progress on them by the next Board meeting. He noted this is an important issue that must be addressed.
Item #9: Selectmen’s Report
Ms. Morse said the last meeting of the Salary and Benefit Study was cancelled due to two people being sick and she had no new update.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to adjourn. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:25 P.M.
Sincerely,
Amy Jowers
Clerk to the Selectmen
Approved
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
September 26, 2006
Town Hall
Selectmen Present: Tom Watman, Rod Pimentel, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston
Town Administrator Present: Peter Flynn
Guests Present: Cindy Marsland, Tom French, Don Armstrong, Matthew French, Mick Costello, Valerie Ingersoll, Alison Wimmer, Stefanie Costello, Richard and Gloria Erickson, Shawn Richard, Jill Martin, Elaine Forst, Jeffrey and Rebecca Roach, Deborah Nitzchke, Edward Flecchia, Christine Murray, Joan O’Connor, Mark and Betty Dingman, Susan Ruggles, Margaret and Don Glover, Janine Bates, Naomi and Rob Praul, Sandra Swarts, Vicki and Donald McCloskey, Cathy Mayne, Jerry Kennedy, Doug Tackett
6:30 P.M. Public Hearing
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited at 6:31 P.M.
Item #1: PUBLIC HEARING – Address Number Change on Craney Hill Road, Western Avenue, Hemlock Corner Loop, Mt. Hunger Road, Flanders Road and Shaker Hill Road
Chairman Watman opened the Public Hearing at 6:31 P.M. to review the renumbering of the following streets: Western Avenue, Flanders Road, Shaker Hill Road, Mt. Hunger Road, Hemlock Corner Loop, and Craney Hill Road. This change is requested by the Fire Department in order to be in compliance and consistency with the recommendations of the Public Safety departments and Enhanced 911 system and to improve the local delivery of safety services. The proposed system is based on 50 ft increments, with numbers starting from the center of town. This meeting is convened under RSA 231.133 which states that the Board of Selectmen may adopt a system for assigning or altering address numbers or buildings or other property numbers along any public or private way in the municipality. A public hearing and proper postings are required.
Mr. Watman explained the format of the Public Hearing, beginning with a presentation to be followed by questions from the Public, and then Board members, followed by comments of viewpoint from the Public and then Board members. At that time, the Public portion of this Hearing will close and the Board will discuss the issue, taking a vote on an action if a Motion is made.
Cindy Marsland, Town Assessing Technician, publicly thanked Mick Costello and the Fire Department for their hard work in completing this project.
PRESENTATION
Mr. Watman introduced Tom French, Chief of the Rescue Squad, and opened the Hearing for the Presentation.
Mr. French opened the presentation by saying new property developments and improving the town’s numbering system generated this effort. He introduced Mick Costello, the Fire Department representative on this project. Mr. Costello said the numbering system in town is atrocious and improvements are needed to meet public safety requirements. House numbers are out of order and misaligned and some streets are numbered backwards from the direction of travel. He noted several examples. He reminded the audience that Fire and Rescue personnel need orderly and clearly numbered addresses to find locations in town for response and rescue. Directions will be easier for residents as well and the benefit for the future is there will be room for additional addresses as property is developed. He explained how the new addresses were determined starting from the beginning of each road and traveling away from the center of town. Fire fighting efficiency will be improved by easier calculated distances of water sources to each home. Life Safety of residents will be improved because rescue personnel will arrive faster and can provide medical treatment faster. Fire fighters will be able to arrive faster to put out fires. Every second counts.
Sgt. Matt French, Henniker Police Department,, said the Police Department strongly supports this project for many of the same reasons previously discussed, and he believes that if this change is not implemented, someone in town will be hurt in the future.
Peter Flynn, Town Administrator, said he has been part of the fire service in a previous position and most small towns have this same problem. He discussed follow up actions that the town will provide to help homeowners and residents if their addresses are changed - letters will be provided to notify companies of the address change and the Post Office will pay the postage on these notification letters; the Post Office will work with residents to make adjustments easier by honoring old addresses for one year; the town will also provide new house numbers for residents. He pointed out the town will also have expenses because all billing addresses for affected residents for tax, water and other bills and voter registrations will need to be changed in their system. The town is eager to assist with the necessary steps to implement this change.
Ms. Marsland noted that draft letters for residents are ready tonight, if this proposal is approved.
QUESTIONS
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing for questions from the audience.
Ed Flecchia asked how long the process would take to renumber the entire town. Mr. Watman said that is not known because the streets being discussed at this hearing are the worst; another public meeting will be necessary before the remainder of town is discussed. Margaret Glover asked how apartment buildings will be numbered. Ms. Marsland said each apartment will have a number to go with the street address; if there are different buildings, then each building will have a letter or number; each apartment will have an additional letter or number to denote the unit for that building. Mr. French noted that if a building has a separate driveway, it will have its own street number.
Shawn Richard asked about street/road labeling, as some areas have roads that are not labeled or are called something different from the names found on maps. Mr. Watman said the town has an official map that denotes street/road names, which should be used. Mr. French said the map adopted by the town has the correct names; safety departments rely on street signs and house numbers. Mr. Watman said any streets that are not labeled should be referred to the Town Administrator. Susan Ruggles pointed out that some road names bordering her property have been changed without abutters being notified. Mr. Watman said the Board of Selectmen is the only authority that can approve changes to town street/road names, and there are times when abutters are not notified, but the Board does the best it can. Mark Dingman expressed concern about his property and the street they live on, which is called Shaker Hill Road, but not signed as that; they had a medical emergency last year and he had to go to the end of their road to direct emergency personnel to their home. Mr. Watman noted that Ms. Marsland was taking notes on this issue to help resolve, but recommended he discuss further with the Town Administrator. Jerry Kennedy discussed his property on Shaker Hill Road and Mr. Watman thanked him for the history he shared on it.
Naomi Praul asked if the town is prepared to offset business expenses due to this change. Mr. Watman said the town has outlined the steps of assistance that are being offered, although we also recognize there will be additional expenses and inconveniences. Doug Tackett asked how much of this change is due to out of sequence vs future address needs. Mr. French said future subdivisions and distance to water supply measurements for fire support determined the needs. Mr. Watman said one of the difficulties in this project is that previous town efforts were working under assumptions that have changed. The efforts were well-intentioned but the changes in our town require adjustments now and for the future.
Jill Martin said her home on Western Avenue is not visible from the avenue; how should she handle this situation. Mr. French said her numbers should be placed on her mailbox or visible in some other way. The odd/even numbering system will tell emergency personnel which side her house is on. Joan O’Connor asked if this system is a national system or locally generated, and if there are grants available to help people pay for these changes. Mr. Costello said it is the same numbering system that other NH towns are using. There are grants that can be applied for to allay some of the costs. Mr. Watman noted that his internet research found that this system is the best one available, with the least number of complications.
Debbie Nitzchke asked if there is a difference between residences and businesses in the numbering system. Mr. French said no. Ms. Nitzchke said Bradford has gone through three numbering changes; how will this town avoid that situation. Mr. French said new driveways would have to be closer than twenty feet apart for this system to not work; he cannot envision that happening. Mr. Costello confirmed that this system had been tested by them to make sure the numbering system was logical and that it worked. Mr. Richard asked if there is any way for E-911 to have additional supplemental information about a property rather than changing the addresses. Don Armstrong said no, that the 911 system bases its response on the street address. Ms. Praul asked about cell phone calls where no address will be displayed. Mr. Armstrong said the new enhanced cell phones display the triangulation by GPS to display location. He said old cell phones will not do that triangulation, and that will be a problem. Mr. Armstrong went on to explain how phone calls generate location displays for the 911 operators.
Betty Dingman asked about deeds for properties that will be incorrect after this change. Mr. French said the phrase “formerly known as” will be added to future deeds to explain the change. Ms. Marsland explained the property address is not required on the deed. Ms. O’Connor asked if she will have to visit the registrar of deeds or if the town will take care of it for her. Mr. French pointed out there is nothing required to be changed on the deeds, and Cordell Johnston agreed this information is not a legal requirement. Ms. Marsland said that if the renumbering is approved tonight, all new address information will be sent to 911 operators at the phone company, provided to the post office, the supervisor of the voting check list, and all records held by the town will be changed. In addition, anyone can request a copy of this information. Mr. Watman said there will be a lot of work involved for everyone to get this accomplished; it may not be completed perfectly but it will be done.
Ms. Ruggles asked about placing the spreadsheet information of the new addresses on the town’s web site. Mr. Flynn agreed to do so. Ms. O’Connor asked about a list of reminders being provided to town members. Mr. Watman said if anyone could find a source of this information, then the town would provide it. A question was asked about all town members being sent the letter about the change. Mr. Watman said, since this hearing is for specific streets, then the letter announcing the hearing was only sent to the residents on those streets. Ms. Nitzchke asked about people or businesses that own multiple properties in town; can this all be done at the same time for expense purposes? Mr. Watman said that answer is not available without a vote of the Board, but it might be reasonable to assume that a vote on renumbering the rest of the town will occur within a reasonable amount of time. Joe Damour pointed out the original intent was to do the entire town at the same time but Flanders Road with its new subdivision was an immediate concern. There will probably be a time period of a year to get all the streets measured. Mr. Dingman asked about the specifics of his new address. Mr. French said that in every case of establishing the address numbers, the numbers were rounded up. Ms. Glover asked about 76 Western Avenue; Ms. Marsland said all the addresses at the old 76 address are now 388 with the unit number the same.
Hearing no other questions, Mr. Watman closed the segment for public questions and opened the floor for questions from Board Members.
BOARD MEMBER QUESIONS
Cheryl Morse asked if the Post Office preferred this project be completed in one step or multiple steps or if they needed waiting times between steps. Ms. Marsland said the Post Office will not receive the information until just prior to the deadline; it had no preference on how this project was completed. Mr. Johnston asked exactly what happens when he dials 911; who will answer the call. Mr. Armstrong said the operator that answers is in Concord – the main dispatch center for the state of NH is also in Concord. The first thing they see is caller ID followed by specifics of that address. The next thing they see is the emergency responder for that address. Mr. Johnston asked how the response is then handled. Mr. French said within 90 seconds the E-911 operator routes the call to police, fire or medical emergency personnel as the responders for that address. They link directly with the dispatchers in the specific station and the station listens to the phone call while the operator questions the caller to determine the type of emergency. The E-911 operator uses flip charts to ask specific questions in order to provide help to the caller. The 911 operators then routes the call to the dispatcher who has already activated pages to call out the emergency personnel to the address.
Mr. Johnston said he is trying to find a less disruptive way to accomplish the same thing that the renumbering proposal does. Mr. Costello has put together all this information about the streets/roads involved in this project. Why can’t this same information be provided to the dispatchers without changing the addresses? Mr. Costello said it is difficult to get the information to all the responders without this address specific information being disseminated through the 911 system. Ms. Morse said trying to find the house without the new addresses will be difficult. Mr. Johnston said he still does not see why this is so difficult to convey to all the responders. Mr. Armstrong said the key is KISS – Keep It Simple Stupid - because too much information is almost as bad as too little and can cause errors. Mr. Johnston asked about enforcing the legal house numbers policy. Ms. Marsland said a letter is sent to residents that do not have visible house numbers, when the emergency personnel are aware of it. Mr. Damour pointed out the ordinance was originally written specifically to have no penalty involved. Mr. French pointed out that new construction must have legal numbers before a certificate of occupancy is issued.
At this time, Mr. Watman closed the Public Hearing to questions from Board Members.
PUBLIC OPINION
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing to comments from the Public.
Jeff Roach said this change is needed as he frequently sees home deliveries get misdirected due to out of sequence numbering. Mr. Armstrong voiced his opinion that a number of houses are not visible from main roads; this numbering system will work well during the winter. Using mileage for the numbering is easier because one can measure the distance to get to the desired address. Ms. Nitzchke said that as a resident of the town this change makes sense, but as a business owner she is conflicted. The change will cost her $3000+ due to changes she must make with 4 different states in which she does business. She wishes the town would insist on enforcing the house number visibility issue and also that the town would think outside the box to come up with another solution. Ms. Dingman said she believes corrections to street naming and labeling should take place before changes to the numbers. Her house had had a medical emergency and when responders tried to find her house, they were late because they could not find the driveway. Ms. O’Connor said she was conflicted because this group of streets/roads would be the first to be renumbered, and if the entire town were being done at once, there would be a larger turnout from the town people. She is opposed to the change. Ms. Marsland said the reason these streets are being done now is because these streets are the worst in town. Mr. Richards said he would like to know if the Board could find a way to identify houses geographically rather than numerically. Mr. Kennedy said he is opposed to this change because other things about this town need fixing before this. He has never had a problem with deliveries. His biggest problem is when the flood gates are closed everyone has to go back and come in the other way. That has been pointed out before and nothing has been done. Doug Tackett said he is opposed to the change due to the money involved with the change and because the town cannot enforce the numbering that they have now. Vicki McCloskey said she was against the change but now supports it, however she would like to know if businesses could be delayed until the feasibility of geographical numbering could be determined. Ms. Praul said she is concerned that if these streets are changed and then the rest of the town does not support the change, what will happen to the street numbers that were changed. She recommends waiting. Mr. Flecchia said he came to the hearing believing that this was a done deal. He does not mind the changes but he wonders why the information that was provided inferred that this was an informational only type meeting. Mr. Dingman said he believes this change needs to happen but the road signage needs to be fixed first and the town should delay the numbering until the roads are fixed.
Mr. Watman closed the Public Hearing to comments from the audience, and opened the Public Hearing to comments from the Board.
Hearing none, he closed the Public Hearing to comments from the Board and reminded the audience that this next section of the Hearing was closed to all public input, and was only for the Board to discuss the issue before them.
BOARD DISCUSSION
MOTION by Tom Watman that the Town Administrator oversee the renumbering of Western Avenue, Flanders Road, Shaker Hill Road, Mt Hunger Road, Hemlock Corner Loop and Craney Hill Road using the renumbering system based on increments of fifty feet starting from the center of town. This decision shall be effective on January 15, 2007. Seconded by Joe Damour.
Mr. Watman said now is the time to do this change because it will never be popular and never be easier. Safety is his responsibility; this decision is about public safety and not about visitors finding an address. It is about the rescue squad and the fire department finding your house to provide emergency aid. The town has grown, the problems have magnified and it is politically difficult to make the change at any time. The safety people deserve to be helped, too. It will cost money and time, but these issues will still be there if we do not have a system change now. He urged support for the Motion.
Rod Pimentel said this renumbering proposal will allow the Rescue, Fire and Police departments to find houses even when there are no visible numbers. This is the main reason for making this decision. His only problem is choosing the method to use in numbering – VHS or Beta. Both ways work. He would like to see more debate about which system to use.
Mr. Johnston said he believes this proposal goes too far and will vote against this Motion unless he hears something to change his mind. He understands the concern and appreciates the good motivations but we are not living in a perfect world where everything works the way it should. Some of us are attached to the imperfections which we have. Speed limits could be lower to reduce deaths; he believes just saying it is a safety issue is not good enough and the benefits should be weighed against the negatives. There is a distinction and a better argument to be made when the house numbers are out of order, they should be fixed but not by renumbering the entire road. Some people have addresses etched in granite posts that will have to be changed. There will always be reasons why houses are not found. He thinks this is more than needs to be done.
Ms. Morse said she sees a speed change as an indefinite inconvenience; changing a house number is a one-time inconvenience. She suspects there is complacency when one has not experienced a medical emergency and is concerned the emergency personnel will not find them. Changing house numbers are not as serious as taking care of the people who live here. GPS systems are not common enough to provide the safety needed here now. Street name changes have been an issue and if nothing else, this hearing tonight brought this to light and it will now be corrected. She is looking for ways to protect businesses, but someone else will always have to pay more. This has to be for the entire town and that is the only way she will vote for it. She has the same concerns that Mr. Pimentel has about the type of renumbering (mileage vs 50 ft increment) and asked to amend the Motion to delay a vote tonight, if there was a way to get information to see what system would be best for the town. Mr. French responded that the mileage system does not offer the fire department enough information to know the number of feet of hose they need to fight a fire.
Mr. Damour said this is not the first time this has been discussed. Previously, E-911 said the town did not need to change its numbering system because it had a system in existence. Changes were done piecemeal over time and it was a mistake. This numbering system is used by other surrounding towns and that is important because sometimes they have to come into our town to provide emergency service. He intends to vote for this Motion and follow through for the remainder of the town.
Mr. Watman said this is not an easy decision and we do not always know when bad things are going to happen. When the fire department, police department and the rescue service say they need something to happen so that they can do a good job to protect people, he takes it seriously and it goes beyond an inconvenience to put up some numbers. He believes now is the time to protect the investment we have in our fire, rescue and police departments and we need to stop putting off this issue and come up with a working system.
Mr. Johnston said most people have probably made up their minds on how to vote. He believes the town should protect the people and people should have a choice on how to be protected. He wants to help fire and rescue people but his view is he will accept the risk of not having the numbering system changed.
Mr. Pimentel said he is still not convinced the proposed method is the best method. Mr. Damour said he would like to amend the motion, and Mr. Watman agreed to add the following language.
AMENDMENT to the MOTION by Tom Watman to direct the Town Administrator to schedule another public hearing and distribute appropriate notices for the rest of the town to be renumbered under the proposed system. Seconded by Joe Damour.
Mr. Johnston clarified that if this Motion was approved as amended, then the Board was approving the renumbering of these streets discussed tonight and also scheduling a hearing to do the entire town. Mr. Watman said yes. Ms. Morse said she believes laws are set up to protect everyone and not just a personal right. Mr. Pimentel said he needed more time to review the numbering system versus a mileage system. Mr. Watman said this has been going on since April. There are lots of reasons to not do this renumbering. He believes a good reason to pass this Motion now is because it is the best thing for the town to do - to set up a system in which the people are protected better than they are now.
Mr. Watman called for a vote and the motion passed 3-2. (Joe Damour – yes, Tom Watman – yes, Cheryl Morse – yes, Cordell Johnston – no, Rod Pimentel – no)
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to adjourn. Seconded by Tom Watman and unanimously approved 5-0
The Public Hearing was adjourned at 8:30 P.M.
Sincerely,
Amy Jowers
Clerk to the Selectmen
APPROVED
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Town Hall
Selectmen Present: Tom Watman, Rod Pimentel, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston
Town Administrator Present: Peter Flynn
Guests Present: Carl Hamel, Ronald Lavallee, Stephany M. Lavallee, Gail Abramowicz, Mary Ellen Schule, Ian Johnson, Luke Johnson, William Johnson, Henry Johnson, Bob Pennock, Tim Russell
6:00 P.M. Review and sign Consent Agenda
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited at 6:15 P.M.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to approve the Consent Agenda items, as presented. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 5-0.
PUBLIC FORUM
Carl Hamel submitted a petition requesting the Board consider adding a public forum to the end of the Selectmen’s meeting and before closed sessions start. The purpose is to encourage more members of the town to attend meetings and to speak on their concerns. The Board thanked Mr. Hamel for this suggestion and noted that a vote on this issue would be taken, should a Motion be raised by a Selectman.
Stephany Lavallee noted the invitation that the Town of Henniker had received to attend the Pay As You Throw (PAYT) seminar in Hopkinton. Its Recycling Committee will present the program to the Hopkinton Selectmen tonight. Ms. Lavallee said Hopkinton does not intend to implement the PAYT program this year but will recommend it to the Town at next year’s Town Meeting.
Ron Lavallee said he had observed numerous cars on two different days at the Transfer Station dumping without stickers, including business vehicles, and noted the recycling personnel were too busy to enforce the $1 sticker requirement. He did not think the current process was working; the Town needs a PAYT program. Mr. Watman said the message needs to be carried to Bob Pennock, Superintendent of the Transfer Station. Mr. Hamel pointed out that an employee at the Transfer Station has been severely injured and a temporary employee is now filling that person’s position; it may be contributing to the busy work load at the Station.
Item #1- PUBLIC HEARING – Acceptance of gift over $500 of a sign for the Community Park and the Community Center on Main Street – Donated by Eagle Scout Candidate William Johnson
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing at 6:20 P.M. on Acceptance of Gift over $500 of a Sign for the Community Park and the Community Center on Main Street. He noted this is a gift donated by Eagle Scout Candidate, William Johnson. He invited Mr. Johnson to make his presentation.
William Johnson addressed the Board and presented the sign, saying this is one of four that he did for his Eagle Scout Project. He described its composition and design and thanked several local businesses that had contributed to completing this project. Cheryl Morse asked him if he designed the sign and he said yes. Mr. Watman said the estimated value excluding the granite post is $2000. He asked if there are questions from the Public or Board. Hearing none, Mr. Watman asked if there were comments from the Public or the Board. Mr. Lavallee said this sign is absolutely beautiful and is the nicest sign in the entire town; congratulations to everyone who had a hand in this gift. The Board congratulated Mr. Johnson on a very fine job and the donation of a valuable addition to the town.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the donation of a gift over $500 of a sign for the Henniker Community Center and Community Park, donated by Eagle Scout Candidate, William Johnson. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Watman closed the Public Hearing at 6:35 P.M.
Item #2 – PUBLIC HEARING – Amendment to the Town Parking Ordinance – Depot Hill Road (Second Reading)
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing at 6:35 P.M. on the Second Reading of the Amendment to the Town Parking Ordinance regarding Depot Hill Road. He requested Peter Flynn make his presentation.
Mr. Flynn explained that at the First Reading of this Amendment it was noted historical information on this issue had not been correct. There was no language in the parking ordinance reserving parking spots for Town Hall customers. The Board had requested this issue be clarified, and so this Amendment will reserve six parking spots in front of Town Hall for town business. The Police Department supports this, as well.
Mr. Watman asked if there were any questions from the Public or Board. Gail Abramowicz asked if the parking restriction applies only to business hours. Mr. Damour noted this will be a similar situation the Library has to deal with – how do you enforce a parking restriction if you do not know if the person is using the Library? He suggested the parking sign be enforced, when necessary, and the Board agreed. Mr. Johnston asked if this is the best place in the ordinance to place this language when the section is titled “No Parking”. After discussion, the Board agreed to change the section title to “Parking Restrictions” for clarification purposes.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to amend the proposed Amendment to the Town Parking Ordinance by changing the title of Section 120.10 to read “Parking Restrictions” and to waive the Third Reading of the Amendment and approve the Amendment, as written. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Watman closed the Public Hearing at 6:45 P.M.
Item #3 – Tom Dunn – Henniker Theatre Group – request for waivers of Community Center rental policies
Mr. Watman reviewed the response from the Community Center Activities Committee (CCAC) to the Board’s request to consider the requests from the Henniker Theatre Group regarding use of the Henniker Community Center. The CCAC recommended the Group not be exempt from paying the usage fees and that use of the Teen Center not be considered part of the contract for use of the upstairs portion of the building.
Mr. Watman noted the email from Mr. Dunn stating his group’s regret that the CCAC had chosen not to meet with them to discuss the Theater Group’s requests. He also noted he and other members of the Group would not be able to attend the Selectmen meeting this evening, however, they had several questions to ask the Board: “Can the Selectmen decide not to charge us rent for our activities the remainder of 2006-7 season? Could we have an extra power line run into the building? Could we put up pipes to hang lights and microphones? (We did get an estimate of $830 for these) and, could we use bathrooms in teen center on nights when they have no activities with proper adult supervision?” Mr. Watman said that the Theatre Group had made 7-8 requests, in total. The CCAC had recommendations for two requests, noting they did not believe they had input on the others, but the Board would address all requests from the Group.
Mr. Watman requested any further input from the CCAC. Ms. Abramowitz noted the CCAC did not feel it was pertinent to meet with the Theatre Group, because the CCAC believes the Group should be charged to use the Center, should not be able to use the Teen Center in conjunction with use of the upstairs, and the Town should not incur expenses for one group’s request for more wiring and electrical usage. Mr. Johnston pointed out the Board could decide whether to have an organization pay rental fees for the Center. Mary Ellen Schule pointed out the Teen Center is to be used by teens and if the bathrooms are available to everyone, then the teens may feel as if they have no ownership and that anyone can come in and invade their space.
Ms. Morse asked if the Teen Center chaperones are going to turn people away from using the bathrooms. Ms. Abramowicz said she didn’t think people would be turned away if they needed to use the facilities. Ms. Schule said there is not an open door policy for Saturday evenings. Mr. Damour asked about the capacity of the Teen Center. Ms. Abramowicz responded that she thought it was 89. Mr. Damour said capacity could be an issue due to the maximum number of attendee restrictions for fire safety. Ms. Abramowicz said she met with Mr. Dunn last year and he had commented that the Teen Center would be a good place for his waiting area. She said if the Teen Center is opened just for bathroom use, would it be only for bathroom use or waiting area use as well?
Bob Pennock said in his experience there are more problems with the upstairs bathroom due to unruly, disorganized groups of people, so he agreed with the CCAC’s concerns. Mr. Lavallee said he opposes waiving the fees; use of the building causes wear and tear. Also, the group’s use of the Center is a temporary one; they should contribute to the upkeep of the facility.
Mr. Watman stated that the issues are now before the Board.
MOTION by Tom Watman to deny the following requests from the Henniker Group Theatre regarding the use of the Henniker Community Center: waive the 21 year old supervisory requirement, allow use of the bell platform, and increase power lines and piping to hang lights and microphones. Seconded by Cordell Johnston.
Mr. Pimentel said no one knows exactly what the Group is requesting for the wiring or balcony usage; what they are asking for could, and can be used, by others. There should be a long-term look at how this building could be configured for use by other groups, including bathrooms and back stage area. He also believes the 21 year old supervisory requirement issue has been misunderstood. Ms. Morse said this group at one time had permission to use the Cogswell Middle School’s all purpose room but the use had been terminated; this room was a well equipped theater facility. She sees no reason to rewire the Community Center and believes there is a real concern about the supervisory issue. Mr. Damour asked if the electrical work proposed is an expense that the town would pay; Mr. Watman said yes. Mr. Damour noted there is no budget for this. Mr. Watman agreed, and added that he believes the supervisory issue should be absolutely defined and must meet the specific town liability requirements without any confusion.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on this Motion. The Motion was unanimously approved on a vote of 5-0.
MOTION by Tom Watman to deny a request to use the Teen Center for any use by any other group, other than the intended or by a Town Board or Committee, without specific Board of Selectmen approval. Seconded by Joe Damour.
Mr. Pimentel asked if this Motion was circumventing the CCAC’s function. The Board discussed the process, with the final understanding that any request would be submitted to the Town Administrator, brought to the Board and shared with the CCAC for their input.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on this Motion. The Motion was unanimously approved on a vote of 5-0.
Mr. Watman noted the remaining Group requests were to waive the fees and allow scheduling more than three months in advance. Mr. Watman asked if the town currently has a deadline for scheduling. Mr. Flynn said no rules are in place, just “first come, first serve”. Mr. Watman said if there are no rules for others, then there should be no rules for this group. Mr. Damour pointed out that this group asks to schedule the Center for weeks at a time, not just for a one time use. Ms. Abramowicz said the Committee is working on a policy that allows the facility to be available for many groups. In addition, the CCAC currently charges extra fees if equipment is left behind after using the facility; this is to encourage short-term use.
MOTION by Joe Damour that, on a temporary basis, there will be no more than four days scheduled per month at the Henniker Community Center without a special exception from the Board of Selectmen; the Community Center Activities Committee will develop a long-term solution for scheduling and present a recommendation to the Board of Selectmen; and, any current users/groups already approved to use the Henniker Community Center are grandfathered from this temporary MOTION. Seconded by Cheryl Morse. The MOTION was approved on a vote of 4-1 (Rod Pimentel – No, Tom Watman – yes, Cheryl Morse – yes, Joe Damour – yes, Cordell Johnston – yes).
MOTION by Joe Damour to deny the Henniker Theatre Group’s request to waive the usage fees for the Henniker Community Center. Seconded by Tom Watman.
Mr. Pimentel noted this request was to waive the entire fee, not to renegotiate a lower amount.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion. The Motion was unanimously approved on a vote of 5-0.
Item #4 – Gail Abramowicz – Chair of the Community Center Activities Committee – Requesting clarification of Committee charge
Ms. Abramowicz noted the Community Center Activities Committee had been requested by the Board to define its charge and said it had responded on August 13th by letter to the Town Administrator that it wanted to continue its current work. The Board reviewed the Committee’s original charge: to operate the Teen Center; schedule activities for the main floor but not to solicit those activities; and to develop rules and monitor usage of the building. The Board noted the Committee had never been formerly given this charge. Mr. Flynn said he collects contracts for usage of the building and Joan Taylor schedules the use.
MOTION by Joe Damour that the Henniker Community Center Activities Committee shall have a purpose to: 1) Operate the Teen Center in the building basement, 2) Schedule activities for the main floor of the building but not to solicit those activities, and, 3) Establish rules for the use of the main floor and monitor use of that area. Seconded by Tom Watman and unanimously approved 5-0.
Ms. Abramowicz noted the Committee’s intention to clarify that the Teen Center is a separate entity from the main Community Center portion of the building. Mr. Pimentel said he believes the Committee should be the authority recommending any improvements or changes to the Community Center and Teen Center to the Board of Selectmen. Mr. Watman noted the Committee’s charge was just approved; any addition would have to be added by a Motion. Ms. Morse asked if the rewiring of the Center had been to National Building Code. Mr. Flynn said it was never supposed to be a theatre and modifications for that use would damage the plaster walls. He noted it had been his responsibility in the past to take care of any requests to add or modify the Center; he believes it would be beneficial to keep it that way. Ms. Abramowicz said if there are any changes to the inside of the building, the Committee would like to be notified of these requests.
MOTION by Rod Pimentel to designate the Henniker Community Center Activities Committee as the authority to review and make recommendations for any physical changes to the interior of the Community Center; this will be added to the Committee’s charge. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Watman reviewed the information submitted by Bob Pennock, Superintendent of the Transfer Station, regarding a new State rule prohibiting the burning or burying of computer screens and televisions larger than 4 inches. Mr. Pennock is requesting to amend the fee schedule to charge $5 for any second drop off of any computer monitor or television screen; this will help cover the cost of the Town paying twelve cents a pound for the recycling disposal charge of these screens; with the fee starting on July 1, 2007. Most towns are charging for this type of collection.
Mr. Johnston asked about the current procedure. Mr. Pennock says there is no charge now and the screens are broken down and recycled at appropriate centers. Mr. Johnston asked about other town charges and if we didn’t charge, would it be unusual; Mr. Pennock said yes. Mr. Damour suggested charging one fee for every screen brought in. Mr. Watman asked how the new fee will be enforced. Mr. Pennock said the Station will do its best; people will put the screens in either the dump or the swap shop; employees will watch. Mr. Damour asked if there will be a fee if someone drops off a screen at the swap shop now. Mr. Pennock said they are not to be dropped off at the shop; however, if the employees find them, nearly all go into the dump.
MOTION by Joe Damour to request the Town Administrator to draft a proposed ordinance to charge a fee for disposal of all computer monitor and television screens larger than 4 inches at the Henniker Transfer Station. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Pennock informed the Board that Henniker had received almost $2,000 from other towns to continue the Hazardous Waste Day.
Police Chief Tim Russell informed the Board that he had interviewed several candidates for the part time officer position, paid at the part-time rate of $14.76 per hour. He is recommending the hiring of Benjamin Tokarz for this position. Mr. Tokarz will not be fully employed until May or June of 2007, as he needs to complete the Part-Time Policy Academy. Mr. Johnston asked if there are any shift coverage increases, or if this is a new position. Mr. Russell clarified that this position is to fill in for full-time officers that are ill, on vacation, or for special duties in Town; there are no guaranteed hours and no increase in budget expense.
MOTION by Rod Pimentel to approve the appointment of Benjamin Tokarz to the position of Special Part Time Officer at the Henniker Police Station. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Hamel read a letter he submitted proposing a $100,000 tax relief abatement for Seniors and Handicapped Earned Deduction, and a Commission to study and recommend a solution. Ms. Morse said the Board is exploring what makes up the town tax rate. She appreciates Mr. Hamel’s theory but this abatement will shift the tax load from seniors, regardless of their assets, to families. Ms. Morse said she would never support the abatement for this amount. Mr. Hamel said he is more interested in enforcement of asset caps and not necessarily the abatement amount. He is proposing a commission to look into this type of reduction and its enforcement. Mr. Watman said normally this type of issue comes from the Town Administrator after research, legal opinions and warrant article drafts; the Board is not prepared to handle this issue tonight. He advised keeping the Town Administrator informed of his research, and to work with him to present this issue at the 2007 Town Meeting. Mr. Hamel said he plans to submit his own warrant article for consideration at the 2007 Town Meeting. Mr. Watman suggested getting the town attorney to check the warrant article for completeness.
Ms. Morse informed the Board of the proposed redesign of the Community Park, as presented in the submitted pictures. Mr. Jerry LoFaro had done an excellent job to create this new design on his computer. All the recommended changes can be accomplished with no cost, except for the extension of the walkway from the Community Center building. Ms. Lavallee noted that if this redesign is accepted, the fundraising for costs will be planned. A lengthy discussion ensued about the proposed changes shown in the pictures provided.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the Community Park redesign layout report as submitted and to carry out the changes, subject to the approval of funds for the sidewalk extension during the budget process. Seconded by Rod Pimentel and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Watman discharged the Committee with sincere gratitude from the Board of Selectmen. He requested the Town Administrator to send thank you letters to the members of this Committee.
Mr. Flynn informed that Board that he had received a total of five applications for the position of Human Services (Welfare) Director. He had interviewed two applicants and was recommending Brenda Slongwhite to fill the position. Ms. Slongwhite currently fills a similar position in the Towns of Hillsboro and Antrim and she has the experience and training to step into the position. She will serve a 6 month probationary period and will work on call. She will have regular office hours at the Town Hall one day a week for a three hour period for appointments. The Board discussed the increased workhours for this position, and the resulting expense over the budget. Mr. Flynn noted he had reached this compensation level after researching two other towns with a similar position, however, he will get a better idea about this position, after a year.
MOTION by Rod Pimentel to appoint Brenda Slongwhite to the Human Services (Welfare) Director position with an annual salary of $3000, payable monthly. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing for the Second Reading of the proposed Public Hearing Policy. He opened the floor for questions from the Public or Board. Hearing none, he opened the floor for comments from the Public or Board. Hearing none, he requested a Motion.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to waive the Third Reading and approve the Public Hearing Policy, as presented. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
Item #11 – Review and Adopt public and non-public minutes of August 15, 2006
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept the public minutes of August 15, 2006, as amended. Seconded by Tom Watman and unanimously approved 5-0.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the non-public minutes of August 15, 2006, as presented. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Flynn informed the Board of the request to complete the hiring of Kenneth Fales to the position of Heavy Equipment Operator in the Highway Department, but to loan him to the Transfer Station immediately, in light of the short-handed Transfer Station crew at this time. Mr. Fales will remain with the Transfer Station until a replacement is in place.
MOTION by Joe Damour to appoint Kenneth Fales to the position of Heavy Equipment Operator in the Henniker Highway Department, at Grade 15, Step 4, $14.65 per hour; to become effective retroactively to September 18, 2006. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Flynn updated the Board on the Old Concord Road Sidewalk Project, noting the information on the letter of offer to settle with Perm-A-Drive will be discussed in non-public session. The work on the West Henniker Paper Mill is continuing. He has received an email that may involve a new proposed sign that must get Board approval before installation. He had recently discussed with Leah, the Recycling Committee Chair, regarding the Pay As You Throw project. She explained this is moving slowly and she expects the report and recommendation will not be ready until the 2008 Town Meeting.
The Waste Water Engineering and Upgrade project is moving along well, with no budget issues and no change of work orders. The Mobile Home and RV taxation issue is on an agenda for the NH Municipal Association. The Salary and Benefit Study is ongoing; all salary information from various towns has been gathered by Ms. Morse and she will provide more information later in this meeting. The Hanson vs Henniker and Richard is in the court process. The Sidewalk issues downtown will be updated by John Margeson during the budget process.
Mr. Flynn noted the Public Hearing on the Street Numbering Proposal is scheduled for next Tuesday, September 26, 2006. Ms. Morse asked about the implementation date. Mr. Flynn noted that should the Board approve the Proposal, the local post office will have letters to assist residents in changing their address, and so will the Town.
Mr. Flynn noted the Bandstand Dedication is scheduled for 2 P.M. on Sunday, September 24, 2006. The Board discussed who will be attending, and Ms. Morse agreed to represent the Board.
Mr. Flynn noted the Street Parking Policy on Depot Hill Road was completed tonight. The Tax Rate analysis presented by Cordell Johnston has been posted on the Town web site. The research on the confidentiality of the Emergency Management Plan is complete and provided to the Board.
Mr. Flynn continued that the Elderly Exemption Issue for 2007 Town Meeting was addressed tonight, as was the Second Reading of the new Public Hearing policy. A letter to the NH Department of Transportation regarding Route 202 exit has been sent. A petition has been submitted to the Town from residents opposed to making this exit permanent. A letter to the Governor Re: the Hazardous Waste subsidy loss has been sent. Mr. Johnston asked about the tenor of this letter, and the Board agreed it was an accurate reflection of the comments at their meeting when they learned of this decision.
Mr. Flynn noted that the Welfare Director Appointment was completed tonight. Finally, Amy Jowers, Clerk to the Board of Selectmen, is resigning effective October 31, 2006.
MOTION by Tom Watman to accept the resignation of the Clerk to the Board of Selectmen effective October 31, 2006 reluctantly with great regrets and with strong appreciation from the Board for her service. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Damour informed the Board of the results of his research of the warrant article purchase policy; a 1975 Town Meeting Article 20 gives priority to local vendors for the town. The Board agreed the Town Administrator would draft an amendment to the Purchase Policy to reflect this Town Meeting vote.
Mr. Johnston expressed concern about attending the Public Hearing on the Street Renumbering Project as a Selectman when his street will be affected by this; he opposes the entire town renumbering project as unnecessary. The Board noted this Project affects three of the Selectmen, and the intention is to consider adopting this system for the five specific roads listed and then to authorize another hearing to discuss the remaining town roads. It was agreed that this issue will never be easy to address.
Mr. Johnston informed the Board of his research in hiring legal counsel for the Town that specializes in municipal issues. Out of three he contacted, two are interested: Mitchell and Bates, and Upton and Hatfield. The Board agreed he should proceed in requesting written information from the two firms.
Ms. Morse updated the Board on the Wage Analysis Report, noting there is a meeting tomorrow night and the Committee will hopefully be ready to summarize information on wages and then move to review benefits.
Ms. Morse noted the GME has appealed its decision to the State Superior Court.
Mr. Morse asked the Board about looking into cleaning up the Skateboard Park; it is deteriorating and unsafe. After discussion, the Board agreed to contact the members of the disassembled Skateboard Park Committee to inform them of the town’s intention to remove any unsafe structures and damaged items in order to remove liability issues for the Town.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to request the Town Administrator to notify former members of the Skateboard Park Committee of the Town’s intent to remove any unsafe structures and damaged items from the Skateboard Park. Seconded by Tom Watman and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Watman informed the Board of the ongoing disagreement between himself and the Planning Board Chairman regarding the jurisdiction of town roads. He is trying to work it out, but wanted to inform the Board in case there were any developments in the future. The Planning Board was doing research that would likely be duplicated by other town department’s works and the Board’s work.
Mr. Watman expressed opposition to Mr. Hamel’s proposal to add a second public forum segment to the Board’s agenda, although it would remain open to future Motions.
The Board agreed to respond to the town residents that had submitted a petition opposing the Board’s letter to the NHDOT to keep the Route 202/9 temporary exits open permanently. Their response would be cc’d to the State.
Item #15: Request for Non-Public Discussion Per RSA 91-A:3,II,(f) – re: Sale of Town Property
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to enter into non-public session per RSA 91:A:3,II(f) – re: sale of town property. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
The Board entered into non-public session at 9:05 PM.
(non-public minutes separate.)
MOTION by Joe Damour to reenter into public session per RSA 91-A,3,II(f) – re: personnel issues. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
The Board reentered public session at 9:35 P.M.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:38 P.M.
Sincerely,
Amy Jowers
Clerk to the Selectmen
Approved
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Town Hall
Selectmen Present: Tom Watman, Rod
Pimentel, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston
Town Administrator: Peter Flynn
Guest Present: Stephany Lavallee, Ronald Lavallee, Chuck Nelson, Gail Abramowicz,
Beth Allen, John Margeson, Bill Belanger, R.Hardy, Chief, Tim Russell, Tom Dunn,
Gaye Putnam, Shelley Wilson, Carl Hamel, Debbie Naylor
6:00 P.M. Review and sign Consent Agenda
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited at 6:15 P.M.
Chairman Watman recommended adding to the Consent Agenda the draft letter written to Peter Beckett denying his application for a Discretionary Preservation Easement. There was no objection.
MOTION by Rod Pimentel to approve the Consent Agenda items, as presented. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
PUBLIC FORUM
Stephany Lavallee expressed concerns about numerous vehicles on a property located on Peasley Road, and the trucks creating a mess on this area’s logging roads. Mr. Flynn said the town’s code enforcement officer has visited the property several times. Ms. Lavallee said there is no public awareness of the results of the visits. Mr. Watman noted that if the code enforcement officer finds violations then he should be acting on those violations. Mr. Flynn said the officer is coming in to meet with him tomorrow and he would discuss this with him. The Board requested Mr. Flynn report back to the Board when these issues have been addressed.
APPOINTMENTS
Item #1: Tom Dunn – Henniker Theater Group – Request for Waivers for Community Center Rentals and Use of Teen Center
Mr. Watman informed the Board of receipt of a letter from the Chair of the Henniker Community Center Activities Committee requesting a suspension of the Board’s decision on Mr. Dunn’s request until after the Committee meets on September 11, 2006.
Mr. Watman asked Mr. Dunn if he wanted to wait until the next Board of Selectmen meeting on September 19, 2006, in light of this request. Mr. Dunn said he was hoping to do a holiday show with rehearsals in September, so it would be difficult to wait until then. Mr. Watman laid out the options for the Board to decide whether to proceed with the discussion or delay it. Gail Abramowicz, Chair of the Activities Committee, said she is not aware of the details of Mr. Dunn’s request and would be interested in hearing them. Cordell Johnston suggested hearing the request so all parties will be aware of the request. The Board reached consensus to hear Mr. Dunn’s request, as well as to rehear if there is new information that results from the discussion.
Mr. Dunn said he is representing the Henniker Youth Theater and is requesting a waiver from some of the new rules instituted in May. Specifically, he was asking the group to be exempt from the full rental fee, the 21 year old supervisory requirement, and allowed use of the Teen Center and Belfry tower. He was also requesting an increase in the electrical circuits, and approval to put up a sign at the Center. The group has 30 to 40 rehearsals, and the new fees would add $800 to $900 to expenses; he has used high school students as supervisors before and would find it difficult to meet the 21 year old requirement; and, there is only one bathroom on the first floor and being able to use the one in the Teen Center would greatly help during show intermissions. In addition, there have been problems in the past with shortage of electrical circuits, so putting more units in would be helpful; the belfry tower would enable them to place lights in a higher position for the shows. Finally, he wanted to return to the Board to discuss future support from the town for the group’s theater efforts.
Mr. Watman opened the floor to questions. Ms. Lavallee asked if the group is a non-profit organization and who serves on its Board of Directors. Mr. Dunn said it is a non-profit and Andrea Tindal, Sherry Wise, Heidi Edwards and he are members of the Board. It was pointed out the non-profit designation is temporary and expires in 2007. Mr. Dunn also confirmed the organization is registered with the State of NH and the IRS. Mr. Watman asked why he wants to use the bell tower considering there is a safety factor. Mr. Dunn said he does not consider this a safety issue; the lighting would be placed there with two operators. Mr. Watman asked why this group uses supervisors under 21 years old for younger children when, in his opinion, this defies the insurance requirements for a town facility. Mr. Dunn said he should have stated it differently in that young supervisors would not be completely responsible but partially responsible. Mr. Watman asked if the group had experienced any discipline problems. Mr. Dunn said yes, although not related to supervisory duties.
Mr. Dunn was asked how many days the group is approved annually to use this Center. He said they hope to conduct two events over a four month period between September and December; using 30 to 40 days. Mr. Pimentel said he believes this is the type of use the community envisioned for the Center, but there is no way to safely use the bell tower; however, there may be a way to arrange higher lights on the sides of the walls. In addition, the issue with using high school students may be in the title they are given, rather than the duties. He asked if they have used schools where there are adequate facilities. Mr. Dunn said they have used the middle school and the high school but practicing is the issue for their work. Mr. Pimentel said there is an issue with using the downstairs; maybe he can look to having performances at another venue.
Mr. Watman asked if there are cost estimates to do the electrical work he is requesting. Mr. Dunn said he did not have an estimate; he noted other facilities have some of the same issues but they have worked around it; putting bars on the side of walls to mount lights might work.
Mr. Lavallee asked how many groups use the community center. Mr. Flynn said probably 50-60 over the year. Mr. Lavallee asked if the others have paid fees. Mr. Flynn said yes, since July, when the requirement started. Mr. Lavallee asked if people associated with the organization have had background checks. Mr. Dunn said yes, within the past two years, and the Theater Group has its own liability policy. Mr. Watman asked how many students were participating and Mr. Dunn said about 71during the summer and about 30-35 in the fall. Mr. Watman asked if they were all Henniker residents and Mr. Dunn said most of them are, and the ones who are not pay a fee to participate. Cheryl Morse asked if the theater charges for shows; Mr. Dunn noted they just ask for donations. Ms. Abramowicz asked if the directors are paid or are volunteers. Mr. Dunn said the summer directors are paid and the rest of the year are volunteers. Mr. Pimentel said the town needs to look at why there should be an exception to supervisors being under 21 for the Henniker Theater. Mr. Watman noted these rules are there to protect the town. Shelly Wilson asked what the fee is for the summer camp and the age of its counselors; Mr. Dunn said it is $150 per week; there are always 21 year old or older on site. Beth Allen noted the facilities contract for using the Center has ensured 21 year olds are on site at the Center in order to make sure an adult is ultimately responsible for the activities occurring.
Mr. Watman requested input from the Activities Committee, and Ms. Abramowicz said they would prefer to further discuss this request at their September 11th meeting.
Mr. Watman requested input from the Board. Joe Damour asked what the added costs for the group will be and Mr. Dunn said between $800-1000 for the fall show; the spring show will be less. Ms. Lavallee asked if the group’s Board has considered raising fees; Mr. Dunn said they had, but had not done so yet. Ms. Abramowicz asked if the Teen Center is involved in this discussion. Mr. Dunn said only to use the restrooms during performances on Friday and Saturday nights and Saturday matinees. Mr. Damour asked how many attend performances and Mr. Dunn said about 140. Ms. Wilson asked about the consistency of charging fees for the use of the facility. Mr. Watman said it is decided by the Board of Selectmen on a case by case basis. Mr. Dunn was asked about multiple use of the facility simultaneously; he noted there is now a mobile trailer used for storage of their equipment.
Mr. Watman opened the floor to opinions. Ms. Abramowicz said she is concerned about use of the Teen Center bathrooms and the supervision of people in that area. It was also pointed out that there is an availability issue for the space. Gaye Putnam suggested the Activities Committee and the Board of Directors for the Theater Group meet to work out a solution to recommend to the Board of Selectmen. Mr. Watman noted this would be helpful; however, any request for an exception to town rules must be decided by the Board. Ms. Wilson said maybe the fee could be reduced for the group. Debbie Naylor said her son is involved with the group and she thinks the groups are all on the same page. Mr. Watman closed the public portion of the discussion and opened the floor to motions from the Board.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to defer the Board decision on exempting the Henniker Theater Group from specific Community Center rules, per the request submitted by the Henniker Community Center Activities Committee for time to consider this request at its September 11, 2006 meeting, and to request this same Committee to present a recommendation to the Board at its September 19, 2006 meeting. Seconded by Cordell Johnston.
Mr. Pimentel said he believes the electrical issue is not something the Activities Committee should address but the Board of Selectmen should decide through the Town Administrator; it would be a good idea to calculate what is needed and the associated cost. Additionally, the fee issue is the Board of Selectmen’s responsibility. Mr. Damour said he would like to hear the Committee’s recommendation on both issues in order to make his decision. Mr. Johnston suggested the Theater’s Board and the Activities Committee should discuss all issues. Mr. Watman noted the Board will expect a written recommendation from the Activities Committee if this Motion is approved. He further noted any request from the Theater Group for town financial support must be received by the Town Administrator by October 1, 2006.
Mr. Watman requested a vote on the Motion. The Motion was unanimously approved on a vote of 5-0.
Item #2: Gail Abramowicz – Chair of the Community Center Activities Committee - Requesting Clarification of Committees Charge
Ms. Abramowicz said the first meeting after the summer break of the Community Center Activities Committee will be on September 11, 2006; the Committee would like a clarification of expectations from the Board. Mr. Flynn noted the Board has approved policies of this Committee but not placed them “in charge” of the Community Center. Ms. Abramowicz noted the Committee does not have a Treasurer; however, it would like to know the finances involved with the Center if the Board wants the Committee to be responsible for it. By unanimous consent, the Board requested the Town Administrator and the Chair of the Committee to draw up a proposed committee charge for submission to the Board to consider at its next meeting.
Item #3: John Margeson – Highway Superintendent – Goals and Objectives review
Mr. Flynn noted this is a review of a third town department’s goals and objectives. He noted the Highway Department’s goals were set back in December 2005, so this is the halfway mark. Mr. Margeson, the Highway Superintendent, reported on their status: (Goal 1) continue taking Road Scholar Classes at UNH - he has taken classes for over 12 years and has reached the highest level of certification available; he is taking additional classes now as a public works employee; his crew is also taking certification classes; (Goal 2) embark on an advanced engineering plan reading course – he noted he has requested advanced blueprint and construction courses; (Goal 3) respond to the Town Administrator in a more timely fashion when inquiries or directives are given – Mr. Flynn said Mr. Margeson is much improved in this goal; (Goal 4) make available more backup information and clarity regarding the 5 year road plan – Mr. Flynn noted he is much improved; (Goal 5) work more with the Planning Board in the future planning of roads including subdivisions – Mr. Flynn said Mr. Margeson works closely now with the Board in fulfilling this goal; (Goal 6) improve public communication with constituents who may have a concern or complaint – Mr. Flynn said this goal is greatly improved.
Mr. Watman suggested the department document an inventory of all roads and their repair history. Mr. Margeson said there are classes offered in road surface management systems and his new assistant will study that subject further. Mr. Watman requested the Town Administrator and Mr. Margeson meet to implement the suggestions discussed.
Mr. Flynn brought up the 5 year plan for highway reconstruction. Mr. Watman suggested this document be added to the website, although Mr. Margeson expressed concern about a schedule that is a working document. A discussion ensued about reconstructing specific roads involved in the 5 year plan and the timing of each, including Bacon Road, Western Avenue, Post Office Place and others. Mr. Margeson said Western Avenue’s project in 2008 would require a warrant article; curbing on Depot Hill Road in front of Town Hall was discussed as an item which might be added to the budget, but further discussions are needed.
Item #4: Chief Russell – Request Concerning Temporary Ramps on Route 202/9 and Liberty Hill Road
Tim Russell, Police Chief, informed the Board of the temporary ramps on Route 202/9 being put in by the State; when the bridge construction is completed, the State plans to remove them, but the town could use the ramps as a bypass during emergencies. Gates could be added to block the ends of the ramps when not used. He requested the Board write a letter to the State asking to keep the ramps for emergency use only. He confirmed they are surrounded by State land, so no issues with abutters. Mr. Johnston requested clarification about how the ramps would be used. Chief Russell described how the bypass would work to keep from using downtown streets. Mr. Margeson pointed out that if this suggestion is approved, it could also reduce the manpower necessary to direct traffic through downtown in an emergency. Mr. Lavallee asked who would pay for the gates and Chief Russell said he did not know. Mr. Damour suggested asking to keep the ramps open all the time. Chief Russell noted Steve Dennis is the originator of this suggestion and deserves the credit.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to authorize the Board of Selectmen to send a written request to the New Hampshire Department of Transportation requesting the temporary Liberty Hill Road on/off ramps remain after the current State bridge construction project is completed, and remain open full time if possible and at least for emergency use. Seconded by Joe Damour.
Mr. Johnston suggested Chief Russell write the letter; he agreed to draft it. The Motion was unanimously approved 5-0.
Item #5: Bill Belanger – Overview of Emergency Management Plan
Bill Belanger provided an overview of the town’s Emergency Management Plan, noting the NH Regional Planning Commission is helping all towns to update their plans. Mr. Watman asked if the plan covers health type emergencies; Mr. Belanger said a portion of the “all hazards plan” covers it. Ms. Lavallee pointed out the plan is not on the website and asked where a citizen could get information about emergency responses. Mr. Belanger said this is a confidential document and only a small part of it, the overview, should be given out to the public. He said necessary information could be conveyed through the public media and door to door visits; since 9/11/01, emergency personnel could be targeted. Ms. Lavallee said if the town has a plan, then residents should be aware of it. She had contacted the Governor’s office and they said the town will provide information; she was not comfortable with only overview information. Mr. Watman suggested checking with the State to see what can be released and what is classified. Mr. Belanger said any response to an emergency will be a case by case issue. Ms. Morse said it may be important to tell residents how information will be provided. Mr. Johnston said whatever document exists is a public record subject to right to know laws and some documents are exempt from disclosure. Mr. Damour said emergency response systems are exempt from right to know laws but specifics of the plans are not. Mr. Hamel suggested using generic Standard Operating Procedure information and black out names and places. Ms. Lavallee said she has worked on the state bio-terrorism task force for two years; the plan was open to everyone, with specifics. She reiterated her discomfort with the information as provided. Mr. Watman requested the Town Administrator research this issue to resolve. Ms. Morse said we need to provide a location as to where the public can go to the website to find out what is expected and how to get information for residents in case of an emergency. Mr. Pimentel cautioned that information placed on the internet needs to be carefully screened.
A lengthy discussion ensued about previous efforts to publish emergency plan information and how best to proceed. By Board consensus, the Town Administrator will pursue an expert opinion. In addition, Mr. Belanger will draft a brief document and a budget proposal to provide emergency planning information to residents. Mr. Belanger said the information that he has provided tonight is releasable.
Item 5A: Chairman inserted item
By unanimous consent, the Board agreed to allow Mr. Watman to insert an item on the agenda.
MOTON by Tom Watman to appoint Cordell Johnston and Joe Damour to serve on a Special Select Committee to solicit information, investigate, and present a recommendation to the Board of a prospective lawyer or law firm to serve as town attorney; the nominated lawyer or firm ideally will have extensive and successful experience in the area of municipal government, special expertise in areas of planning and zoning, and a strong record of defending the decisions made by voters wherever legally possible. Seconded by Cheryl Morse.
Mr. Watman explained his belief that the town will be best served by a town attorney who has the experience as laid out in the Motion, in order to resolve any concerns about proper legal representation for the town during debates of zoning and planning issues. Mr. Damour asked if there is a time limit; Mr. Watman requested a recommendation by budget time. Mr. Johnston said the Board needs to be comfortable with a town’s attorney; this Motion is appropriate.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion. The Motion was unanimously approved on a vote of 5-0.
Item #6: Connor Backhoe Service – Request for waiver of Trench Permit/Board
Mr. Flynn explained Steve Connor’s request for a waiver of the requirement for a town trench permit and performance bond for work on Crescent Street. Mr. Connor has a standing permit for doing town work but this is a private project. Ms. Morse said her understanding is that the purpose of a trench permit is to provide guidelines that guarantee safety requirements are met when digging a trench; a waiver of that requirement eliminates liability for the digging company. Mr. Damour said the permit only provides permission for the contractor to dig the trench; OSHA requirements are still in force. Mr. Johnston said State law requires the contractor to get a permit from the town. After discussion, the Board agreed it is not overly burdensome to require this permit and bond.
MOTION by Joe Damour to deny the request submitted by Steve Connor for a waiver of the trench permit and the performance bond for work to be done on Crescent Street. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Item #7: Amendment to Budget Committee Policy – Third Reading
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to approve the proposed Amendment to the Budget Advisory Committee Operational Policy. Seconded by Tom Watman.
Mr. Damour said he believes this is asking an Advisory Committee to be held to higher standards than any other committee; it is overly burdensome for a voluntary committee. Mr. Watman said the Committee directs budgets and its members should be careful about their recommendations so as not to generate suspicion of interests. Mr. Johnston said the Committee is making decisions about other departments; this amendment is a reasonable step to minimize conflicts of interest. Mr. Damour said almost every town member might have a conflict with a department’s budget issue. Mr. Watman clarified the amendment allows the Committee to grant to members, who may have a conflict of interest, the ability to participate in the discussion of an issue. Mr. Damour asked what will be a quorum for the committee; Mr. Watman said it involves those present and those voting. Mr. Damour noted he would prefer to know how they would vote on their own budget. Mr. Pimentel said he does not believe this amendment is necessary; members can recuse themselves as with other committees.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion. The Motion passed on a vote of 3-2 (Cordell Johnston – yes; Tom Watman – yes; Cheryl Morse – yes; Joe Damour – no; Rod Pimentel – no).
Item #8: Fuel Bid Award
Mr. Johnston recommended approval of the Town Administrator’s recommendation to award the town fuel bid to Ayer and Goss of Henniker for the upcoming winter season. He suggested amending the current Procurement Policy to note that local companies will be given preference in such bids. Mr. Damour said he believes it was voted at a past town meeting that the town would use local vendors when possible. The Board agreed Mr. Damour will research and draft an amendment to the Procurement Policy based on this town vote.
MOTION by Joe Damour to award the bid for Fuel and Propane for the upcoming winter season to Ayer and Goss, as per the submitted quote of prepaid rate of $2.499 per gallon of fuel and $1.749 per gallon of propane. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Cordell Johnston left the meeting at this time.
Public Forum
Mr. Hamel distributed a written request for the Board to consider tax relief abatement for seniors and handicapped town residents.
Item #9: Review and adopt public and non-public minutes of August 1, 2006
MOTION by Tom Watman to accept the public minutes, as amended. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 4-0.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the non-public minutes, as presented. Seconded by Tom Watman and unanimously approved 4-0.
Item #10: Peter Flynn - Human Services (Welfare) Director: Wage and Work Schedule
Mr. Watman reviewed with the Board the documents submitted for the position of Human Services Director, including a job description, pay scale, advertisement, and background information on the salary of the previous jobholder. Ms. Morse asked what other towns pay for this position; Mr. Flynn noted the proposed salary might be low compared to other towns. A discussion ensued about the wording in the advertisement.
MOTION by Rod Pimentel to authorize the Town Administrator to proceed in advertising the Human Services Director, in accordance with the guidelines presented. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 3-0. (Ms. Morse was absent at this time.)
Ms. Morse suggested the current Assessing Technician serve as the substitute, in case of the absence of this Director, and that this is formalized in writing. Mr. Flynn said all office personnel back each other up as part of their duties; however, he will put the policy in writing.
Item #10: Public Hearing Policy – First Reading
Mr. Watman noted the proposed Public Hearings Policy is to clarify the rules and process of the Selectman’s meetings.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the proposed Public Hearings Policy for a Second Reading, as presented. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 4-0.
Item #11: Street Parking Ordinance re: Depot Hill Road – First Reading
Mr. Flynn said there has been an issue with college students taking parking spots in front of town hall so people doing business cannot find a parking spot. He proposed an Amendment to add language to the Parking Ordinance Article III, Section 120.10.A that would reserve six spots in front of town hall for customers.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to approve the proposed Amendment to the Parking Ordinance Article III, Section 120.10.A for a Second Reading. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 4-0.
Item #12: Town Administrator’s Report
Mr. Flynn noted there is correspondence in the Board papers this evening that will be discussed later regarding the Old Concord Road Sidewalk project. The West Henniker Paper Mill committee had been conducting a cleanup with volunteers, but then stopped when provided information by Mr. Pimentel about the Shoreline Protection Act; they will wait until further information can be gathered. The Pay-As-You-Throw project is in progress, as is the Waste Water Engineering and Upgrade construction project, and the Mobile Homes and RV Taxation issue. The Salary and Benefit Study subcommittee will be updated by Ms. Morse. Hanson vs. Henniker and Richard parties continues on the court path. Mr. Margeson will be presenting a report on the downtown sidewalk issues during the budget sessions. The list of previously acquired town owned property was submitted to the new Conservation Commission Sub-Committee to study the request; the renewal of the contract for Jean Lewis was completed; the Street Numbering Proposal has started; the gazebo legal agreement has been completed; and the Third Reading of the Budget Committee Amendment was completed tonight.
The First Reading of the Street Parking Policy on Depot Hill Road was considered this evening, as was the Goals and Objectives of the Highway Department. The tax analysis completed by Mr. Johnston has been posted on the website. The Health Officer will be presenting her issues on the emergency plan in the future; he had talked with Mr. Hamel about his ideas; and the First Reading of the new “Public Hearing” policy was completed this evening.
The Board discussed with Mr. Flynn the correct procedure of information submitted to the Board; that it is considered a public document and should be distributed to the appropriate authorities unless otherwise informed.
Item #13: Selectmen’s Report
Mr. Pimentel requested Mr. Flynn research why the Landfill Cooperative had withdrawn its application for the waste landfill, as the Town had not been part of this decision. The Board agreed it was important to follow up on this and to write a letter to the Co-op about this decision.
Mr. Pimentel also requested Mr. Flynn to help draft a letter to the State regarding the pulling of funding for the Household Hazardous Waste Day. Mr. Flynn agreed to follow up on this.
Ms. Morse updated the Board on the Salary and Benefits committee work: the 2006 figures had been made available; they were looking at 24 positions to identify questions to better compare them to other towns; they should have the rest of this information within 30 days and be able to report at the Board’s meeting on September 19th.
Mr. Damour noted the Historic District Commission had received the hearse obtained by the Historical Society; they would be looking for funds to repair the building it was housed in, so the Board may want to plan for it in the next budget cycle.
He also noted it might be a good idea to hold a Public Hearing on the Street Renumbering on a separate night. The Board agreed, and tentatively scheduled it for the last week in September at the Town Hall. Mr. Flynn noted more information on this would follow.
Mr. Watman thanked Mr. Flynn for his good work on the fuel bid specs bidding process. He was very pleased to see the Transfer Station personnel ensuring that everyone entering had a sticker to use the Transfer Station facility..
MOTION by Tom Watman to enter into non-public session per RSA 91:A:3,II(e) – re: legal issues. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 4-0 (Joe Damour – yes; Tom Watman – yes; Cheryl Morse – yes; Rod Pimentel – yes).
The Board entered into non-public session at 9:35 PM.
(non-public minutes separate.)
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to seal the minutes of this non-public session. Seconded by Tom Watman and unanimously agreed to on a vote of 4-0.
MOTION by Joe Damour to reenter into public session per RSA 91-A: 3 II (e) – re: legal issues. Seconded by Rod Pimentel and unanimously approved 4-0.
The Board reentered public session at 9:50 PM.
MOTION by Joe Damour to direct the Highway Superintendent to make the following repairs on Old Concord Road: (1) fill the sinkholes behind the wall in the slope with crushed gravel to re-establish the slope; vegetation should be re-established after shimming and filling the voids; and, (2) sawcut out the damaged pavement, shim the crushed gravel subbase layer to redefine the correct grades and repave the removed area. Seconded by Rod Pimentel and unanimously approved 4-0.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:50 P.M.
Sincerely,
Amy Jowers; Clerk to the Selectmen
DRAFT
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Town Hall
Present: Tom Watman, Rod Pimentel, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston, Peter Flynn, Stephany Marchut Lavallee, Jim McElroy, Ronald Lavallee, Cynthia Marsland, Kathleen LoFaro, Marty Davis, Ted Parkins, Leon Parker, Gail Abramowicz, Jerry LoFaro, Bob Pennock, Chris Pullo, Robin Pullo, John Spaulding, Chris Spaulding, Scott Dias, Keith Gilbert, Scott Davison, Mike French, MaryEllen Schule, Barbara C. French, Carl Hamel
6:00 P.M. Review and sign Consent Agenda
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited at 6:15 P.M.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to approve the Consent Agenda items as presented. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
PUBLIC FORUM
Chairman Watman explained the rules and parliamentary procedures for addressing the Board of Selectmen. He asked all attendees to state their name before speaking.
Stephany Lavallee thanked Chairman Watman for a recent article in “The Villager” newspaper. She voiced concerns about the way members of committees and subcommittees are treated and stated that dissent is the ultimate patriotism that citizens can practice. She distributed her comments to the Board.
Kathleen LoFaro commented that everyone has a choice in reporting illegal activities or turning away and she was ready to speak up for those not ready to, at this time.
6:20 PM - PUBLIC HEARING – Acceptance of Gift of a Gazebo at Community Park
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing on the acceptance of gift of a gazebo at Community Park, noting it is a gift of a gazebo donated by a town benefactor. The bandstand is valued at approximately $23,000, the cost of which triggers RSA 31:95-3, which requires a public hearing to be held by the Board of Selectmen when it is considering accepting a donation valued over $500 on behalf of the town. Mr. Watman apologized for the decision made prior to this posted Hearing to permit the start of work on this gazebo. This was due to ignorance of this RSA, not because of any personal agenda. This hearing is to correct the previous error; all work has stopped on the gazebo until the Board requests further action, and if the donation is not accepted, there will be some ethical responsibility to refund some of the cost already expended at this time. Cheryl Morse noted this hearing is required by a State law, not by a town regulation or ordinance.
Mr. Watman reviewed the rules and procedures for public hearings and noted only Henniker residents may speak. The order of the hearing will be to take questions first, then comments and opinions, followed by discussion between Board members and any action requested, after that.
Cordell Johnston asked to review the specifics of the gift which Mr. Watman summarized: a wooden gazebo to be built at a cost of $23,000 and to be donated to the town by a benefactor who wishes to recognize the contribution of the person responsible for the town’s summer concerts. It will be large enough for a bandstand area and has been requested to be placed in Community Park, where the summer concerts will be held. Ms. Morse noted the Board had kept quiet on this offer, as the benefactor had wanted it to be kept a secret until announced to his wife.
Ms. LoFaro offered information about the gazebo. The Board requested she wait until the Public Hearing process allowed for comments and opinions. She expressed disagreement with this process.
Scott Davison asked about the dimensions of the gazebo; Scott Dias explained it is under 20 ft high, 6 sided and could be made handicap accessible. Gail Abramowitz asked why the Henniker Community Activities Committee was not asked for input on this project. The Board noted the Activities Committee is responsible for inside events at the Community Center. The Town Administrator oversees the park area, as this is maintained by the Parks Department. Marty Davis asked who is responsible for informing the Board of RSAs. Mr. Watman said all Board members and the Town Administrator are responsible for knowing the laws of the town and State. Cindy Marsland asked about the location of the gazebo. Ms. Morse explained it will be centrally located facing the community center. The location was decided by the positions of the mature trees which could not be moved and the layout of the park. Ron Lavallee asked about the restrictions benefactors may place on a gift donation, noting the location will impact the Farmer’s Market. Mr. Watman responded this offer was not made in the form of a demand, but for the consideration of the Board. There were no restrictions made on this offer, from his information. Ms. Lavallee asked about restrictions on structures near access ways. The Board noted that government entities are exempt from this law. Carl Hamel asked about the history of the offer. Mr. Watman explained the request was made by the donor to honor his wife by donating this gift to the town in her name. John Spaulding asked about the relationship of the gift to the person being honored. Ms. Morse and Mr. Watman said it is related to the music which is offered at the park in the summer. Chris Pullo asked about maintenance costs for the gazebo. Mr. Watman said the Transfer and Parks employees would be responsible for maintenance. Mr. Pennock said it would require occasional painting but would decrease the amount of grass to mow in the park. Ms. Abramowicz asked about the use of the gazebo by others besides the town band. Mr. Watman responded that there are no known restrictions on its use.
Ms. Lavallee asked if this gift should have been put on the Town Warrant in March of 2006. A brief discussion followed regarding when the Board became aware of this potential gift offer, and it was determined there was no official request until after the Town Meeting. Mr. Watman noted this would not necessarily be an issue to be on a warrant article, as it is more of a responsibility that the Board is expected to handle, rather than requiring a vote by the town. This would not be of the same magnitude as a budget of a town department. Ms. LoFaro asked if the Chairman is aware that if a gift was offered before town meeting and is more than $500, a RSA requires it to be on the Town Warrant. Mr. Johnston clarified that that specific RSA only applies to revenue, not gifts of property. He noted that at a previous town meeting, the town had given the Board the authority to accept similar type gifts, with the stipulation that a public hearing be held on the decision of accepting the gift. Ms. Marsland asked why it should not go on the Town Warrant since this is a building that is being placed on town property. Mr. Watman noted that structures are not always buildings and this is not considered a building.
Mr. Lavallee asked if the Board had considered another location for the structure and why there is such a rush to complete this acceptance process. Ms. Morse said she has worked on several committees that have looked at sites for community gatherings; the location selected is the safest and most convenient due to traffic, parking and children moving around the other sites. Mr. Watman said the decision is being made now because it is a positive thing for the community and it is available now. Ms. Abramowicz voiced support for the gift and the timeliness of it because it will bring attention to the Community Center which is underutilized. Ms. Lavallee asked if the issue could be placed on hold until the subcommittee on parks meets to further discuss the issue. Ms. Morse noted this subcommittee had met last night and voted 3 to 1 for accepting this gift. Ms. Davis asked about this parks committee, and the Board explained it had been reinstituted two weeks ago solely to look at the Community Park and its design. Ms. Davis asked about the work already done without proper authorization and who is to be held accountable for this oversight. Mr. Watman said it was an error by the Board and the Board will try to do a better job in following procedures. Chris Spaulding asked if the Farmer’s Market is aware of this potential gift. Ms. Morse said she has been in touch with the representative of the market and she is aware of the project. She further explained how this site was chosen. Ms. Lavallee said she is having a difficult time understanding why the decision has to be made so quickly. Rod Pimentel noted the announcement of the gift was to coincide with the donor’s birthday.
There were several additional issues the Board addressed, including that the donor could withdraw the donation at any time, the town building inspector is responsible for ensuring the gazebo is built according to town and state law, and there will be documentation to state the town owns the gazebo.
Hearing no other questions, Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing to statements, comments and opinions on this issue.
Mr. Spaulding commended the donor for this gift offer and urged the Board to graciously accept it. Mr. Pullo stated he is concerned about secrecy in government and that our government should be transparent. However, he likes the gazebo and the park. Mr. Lavallee said this is a marvelous gift that the town should accept; however, he is not satisfied with the town process of accepting it. Ms. LoFaro said she wants to place on hold the acceptance of the gift in order to form a new committee to review all aspects of the location and history of the gift. Ms. Lavallee said she supports Ms. LoFaro’s request and noted the gazebo is too large for the park and will be an eyesore; it will clutter the park even more than already. She wanted to know if the donor would consider a different location. Mr. Hamel said one third of the construction to support the gazebo is already done and it would be better if it continues; he encouraged the Board to accept the gift. Jerry LoFaro offered a statement of support for the gift but has concerns about the size of the structure overwhelming the park. Mike French supports the acceptance of the gift and believes the location is the best the town has available. Leon Parker said he has played in a band in gazebos and he is strongly in favor of accepting the gift; he believes the location is correct. Mr. Dias made of point of clarification; he is making a sizeable donation to the town to provide the understructure for the gazebo. He and the Town Administrator were approached by the donor to see if construction could start as soon as possible only because of the donor’s desire to have some concerts in the gazebo this year. He believes everything was done above board and not in secrecy or rushed unnecessarily. Ms. Abramowitz asked about electricity at the gazebo; the Board noted there is nothing in the budget for it this year. Ms. Marsland clarified the Community Center and the Park are taxed as one lot. Ted Parkins said he believes the gift is a great idea but he does not like the location of it in a small park.
Hearing no other comments, Mr. Watman closed the Public Hearing to public comments and questions at 7:32 PM and requested questions and comments from the Board.
MOTION by Joe Damour to authorize the acceptance of the donation of a gazebo to be located in Community Park. Seconded by Rod Pimentel.
Ms. Morse said the attendee vote tonight was 6 for and 3 against. She reviewed the location process and the three donors of materials – Mr. Robinson, Mr. Dias and Central Concrete. She supports the gift and the location. Mr. Pimentel said conversations about a gazebo in the town park have gone on for years, with most people and businesses favoring the downtown location for Old Home Days. Any enhancement to the downtown is a positive step for the town.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the motion. The Motion was accepted unanimously on a vote of 5-0.
PUBLIC FORUM (cont.)
Mr. Pullo asked about the possibility of moving some items from Community Park to de-clutter it. Mr. Watman said the sub-committee will meet in August to discuss the issue.
Mr. Lavallee asked about agendaiItems 10 and 11; if this is a change to the structure of the Highway Department. The Board said it was not, just a change in job titles. Mr. Lavallee also voiced concern about traffic on Main Street where large trucks are speeding.
APPOINTMENTS
Item #1 – Kathleen LoFaro Community Park discussion.
Ms. LoFaro thanked the Board for their time but elected not to address the Board.
7:45PM: Board of Sewer Commissioners – Public Hearing
Item #2 – Misty Leah, LLC – Billing process for multiple units.
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing of the Board of Sewer Commissioners on the appeal submitted by Misty Leah, LLC regarding the billing process for multiple units.
Lee Carver, owner of Misty Leah, LLC, said he owns a residential rental building at 104 Western Avenue and has been pleased to see changes to the billing process for commercial properties. He questioned the billing for large residential properties and provided a graph for water and sewer charges that compares what he pays in other towns versus Henniker. He acknowledged that without meters, it is difficult to measure the usage for each unit, but believes his units are paying dramatically higher water and sewer charges in Henniker because he is being charged a flat rate per unit and not by number of residents. He asked the Board to address this discrepancy and gave four proposals for consideration.
The Board questioned whether his comparisons are appropriate, since his examples are of towns with meters. Ms. Marsland noted all property units are charged by unit, not by number of people in the residence. Mr. Damour pointed out residential units are charged differently than commercial business properties due to the different water usage. Mr. Johnston agreed the current billing process may be unfair, but gathering residential information would also be difficult and require a great number of man hours. He suggested reconvening the ad hoc sub-committee to review the issue. Mr. Watman suggested establishing a committee to review the entire billing structure for utilities for all commercial properties.
Mr. Watman requested a motion on the issue.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to reactivate the ad hoc water and sewer ordnance sub-committee to adopt a separate classification for multi-unit residential or defining multi-unit residential as commercial. There was no Second.
Cindy Marsland asked what happens to the assessment of apartment buildings if they are redefined as commercial property. Mr. Watman said the sewer ordinance defines these types of properties but the definitions would have to change.
MOTION by Joe Damour to deny the request for abatement. Seconded by Cheryl Morse. The Board noted this is not a Hearing for an abatement request; the motion was withdrawn. The Board further noted that action on this request is not required at this hearing.
Mr. Pimentel pointed out that comparing Henniker to other towns is not a good option; the issue is usage and that is not going to be resolved in a fair manner in all cases.
MOTION by Tom Watman to reject the four proposals to change the billing process for sewer charges for large residential properties. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Carver pointed out he had paid a fee for an abatement hearing but that is not what happened. The Board agreed by consensus that this fee should be refunded to Mr. Carver.
Mr. Watman closed the Public Hearing at 8:15PM.
aPPOINTMENTS (cont.)
Item #3 – Cindy Marsland – Keith Gilbert Re: Street Numbering
Ms. Marsland and Mr. Gilbert requested the Board’s approval of the House Re-Numbering Committee’s recommendation to take immediate action on renumbering five streets: Mt Hunger Road, Flanders Road, Craney Hill Road, Western Avenue, and Hemlock Corner Loop, as they do not have enough numbers to accommodate proposed or approved developments. The Board discussed how best to proceed, whether to do separate streets in sections or to try to schedule the entire town to do all at once.
Mr. Pimentel asked if the town could use the 911 formula recommendations for all new developments and put a time table on the entire town. Mr. Gilbert noted the 911 system numbers from south to north; his proposed numbering system is from the center of town. The Board further discussed the issue of private roads and new driveway permits.
MOTION by Tom Watman that the five streets listed per the Henniker Fire & Rescue’s May 31st Street Numbering Proposal be numbered based on new driveway permits granted and as outlined in this Proposal; and further, to authorize the Henniker Fire Department to proceed with the re-numbering of all town streets, as expeditiously as possible, as outlined by this Proposal. Seconded by Cheryl Morse.
The Board discussed that should any numbering be required in the meantime, it will have to be measured out, as directed by the Proposal, and possibly allow for the entire street to be numbered at that time.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion. The Motion was approved on a vote of 4-0 (Mr. Johnston was temporarily absent from the meeting.)
MOTION by Tom Watman for the Board to hold a public hearing for the purpose of renumbering Craney Hill Road, Flanders Road, Western Avenue, Hemlock Corner Loop, Mount Hunger Road; and further, to authorize the Town Administrator to provide the Board with suggestions on how the Town may assist the people impacted by the renumbering. Seconded by Joe Damour and approved 4-0 (Mr. Johnston was temporarily absent from the meeting.)
Item #4 – Peter Beckett Re: Request for approval of Discretionary Preservation Easement.
The Board reviewed the application submitted by Peter Beckett for a discretionary preservation easement for his barn at 11 Mathews Road. Mr. Watman stated the application is complete and a public hearing should be scheduled for public discussion about the barn’s qualifications.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to authorize the Town Administrator to notify the owner that the preservation easement application is complete; and, to further authorize the Town Administrator to schedule a public hearing on this request for an easement. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Flynn stated the hearing is scheduled for the next meeting and the announcement will be posted.
Item #5 – Tax rate analysis presentation by Cordell Johnston.
Mr. Johnston distributed his analysis comparing Henniker’s tax rate with 20 other towns with similar characteristics. He noted the key points of his research is that Henniker has the fifth highest tax rate in the State; it is at the top of towns that spend, but at the bottom of towns for revenues. He welcomed any input on this research and noted this is just a beginning. There is much more that needs to be done, and could be done to reach an answer for why Henniker has one of the highest tax rates in the State.
Mr. Hamel noted the different impact of elderly and children on the town’s tax rate. Barbara French thanked Mr. Johnston for his work, noting she is aware of people leaving the town because of this high tax rate. She offered her help with this project. Mr. McElroy noted one of the reasons may be because of so much land in current use.
Mr. Pimentel asked for another column to be added to the analysis, how much Henniker pays per capita versus nearby towns of Hopkinton and New London. Mr. Johnston noted these towns spend more, but on a bigger tax base than Henniker. Ms. Morse noted this is not new in that we have less commercial business. Mr. Johnston noted he could propose an action plan by August 1st for the Board to review. The Board agreed to schedule this issue for a future agenda, and requested this analysis be posted on the town website and placed in the town library.
OLD BUSINESS
Item #6: Update on Town Park Trees – Bob Pennock
Bob Pennock, Superintendent of the Transfer Station and the Parks/Properties Department, presented a proposal to maintain the town trees. He noted the proposal is $1,000 over the Parks budget for trees, but could be covered by a transfer of funds from another line item in his budget. The Board reached a consensus that this was acceptable, in order to stay on schedule for the town property’s care plan.
Item #7: Review of Properties Scheduled for Tax Deeding
The Board noted this issue will be postponed to the next meeting.
Item #8: Report on January 3 Assignment Relative to Town Counsel, DRA and Assessor’s Report on Vision Appraisal’s Meeting Their Contractual Obligations.
The Board reviewed the reports submitted by Town Counsel, Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) and the Town Assessor. All were in agreement that Vision Appraisal had met its contract obligations, with no major errors. The only criticism noted by the DRA was that it took three weeks longer than scheduled. The company’s work was reasonable, based on the contract with the Town.
Item #9: Review and Adopt Minutes of June 27, and Non-Public of June 20, 2006
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the minutes of June 27, 2006, as written. Seconded by Tom Watman and unanimously approved 4-0. (Mr. Johnston was temporarily absent from the meeting.)
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept the non-public minutes of June 20, 2006, as amended, and to unseal these minutes as directed in the June 20th meeting. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 4-0. (Mr. Johnston was temporarily absent from the meeting.)
NEW BUSINESS
Item #10: Recommendation and Possible Hire: Highway Department Foreman
Item #11: Recommendation and Possible Hire: Highway Department Grader Operator/Laborer
Mr. Watman noted the applicant for the position of Highway Department Grader Operator/Laborer had withdrawn his application for consideration.
MOTION by Mr. Watman to approve the hiring of Scott A. Davison to the position of Assistant/Foreman position at the Henniker Highway Department, at Grade Level 18, 5B pay of $17.29 per hour. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Item #12: Request for Waiver for Grange Rental Policy – AA
The Board reviewed the request submitted by a local Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) group for a waiver from the Grange Rental Policy. This group has used the Grange building for many years and has paid a small fee for this usage before it was required; it cannot afford the fee as it has no steady revenue. The Board agreed a waiver can be granted to a non-profit organization at the request of the Town Administrator.
MOTION by Mr. Watman to grant a waiver of the Grange Rental Policy to a local AA chapter, as recommended by the Town Administrator. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
Item #13: Amendment to Budget Committee Policy – First Hearing
The Board discussed the proposed amendment to the Budget Advisory Committee Operational Policy that committee members will abstain from voting on issues directly related to the budgets for the committee or organization they serve on, or have had business with in the previous year. Mr. Johnston suggested expanding this restriction to participating in discussions on these budgets, and agreed to present a draft of this at the next meeting.
Item #14: Policy of Status of Previously Sealed Minutes
The Board discussed the issue of when to open previously sealed minutes. Mr. Johnston noted he would present a proposal to the Board after some research. It was confirmed non-public minutes have been filed in a separate binder since the current Town Administrator has been employed. The Board reached a consensus to have the Town Administrator schedule a review of all non-public minutes every six months.
Item #15: Town Administrator’s Report
Mr. Flynn informed the Board that Tom French is no longer with Hoyle Tanner & Associates so tomorrow he will be meeting with a vice president from HTA to see how remaining issues on the Old Concord Road project can be resolved.
Mr. Flynn requested the Board’s vote on the authorization of expending the funds remaining in the Gomez & Sullivan project at the Contoocook paper mill site
MOTION by Joe Damour to authorize the remaining funds of $16,016 for the surveying and final design plans of the West Henniker Paper Mill site, as per the Gomez & Sullivan June 29, 2006 letter; no funds shall be used for an environmental analysis or permit applications. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Flynn and Mr. Pimentel, as Selectman representative to the Recycling Committee, noted there was no news to report on the Pay As You Throw project. Mr. Flynn noted the Waste Water Engineering Plant project is moving along. He and Ken Levesque, the WWTP Superintendent, are very happy and impressed with the company’s work. He has no news on the Mobile Homes and RV taxation issue. Mr. Johnston agreed to look into this issue and report back to Mr. Flynn.
Mr. Flynn and Ms. Morse noted there is no news yet on the Salary and Benefit study, although they now have early 2006 figures to work with. Mr. Flynn noted the Review Vision Contract Agreement was completed this evening. Mr. Flynn requested the Board’s input on the request for information under the Right-To-Know law regarding the sale of Old Hillsborough Road property. The Board agreed this information was not theirs to release, but in the contract between the real estate agent and the buyer; They cannot release information from a third party contract.
Mr. Flynn noted the first court hearing on the Hanson vs. Henniker and Richard is scheduled for this Monday. There is no news on the sidewalk issues downtown project.
Mr. Flynn requested the Board’s action on a request of a resident who, in error, has been overpaying for four years on his taxes. He has requested a refund for the overpayment in 2005.
MOTION by Joe Damour to request the Town Administrator to provide the Board the total 2005 tax billing overpayment paid by a resident in order to consider a check refund of this overpayment, rather than apply the 2005 overcharge to future billing. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Item #16: Selectmen’s Report
MOTION by Tom Watman to appoint Carl Hamel to a two-year term to the Abandoned Cemetery Committee, with his term set to expire in 2008. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Watman noted that Mr. Hamel’s interest in researching the asset caps and income limitations for the elderly and handicapped would be discussed at the Board’s next meeting. He requested Mr. Hamel’s document be attached to the minutes of this meeting.
Mr. Watman noted he has passed the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) Introduction to Incident Command System course.
Ms. Morse thanked the Police Department for its work during the funeral and procession for Sergeant Russell Durgin. She asked about eliminating the fee for requesting an abatement. The Board agreed to review after more research has been completed. Ms. Morse reported the complaints she has heard about the speed on Hall Street. The Town Administrator agreed to review options to reduce speed on this road, including looking at any available grants or police speeding boxes to show people their speed.
Item #17: Request for Non-Public Session – Per RSA 91-A: 3, II, (a) Town Administrator Annual Review
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to enter into non-public session per RSA 91:A:3,II(a) – re: personnel issues. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
The Board entered into non-public session at 9:52 PM.
(non-public minutes separate.)
MOTION by Joe Damour to reenter into public session per RSA 91-A,3,II(3) – re: personnel issues. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
The Board reentered public session at 1020 pm.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:25 pm.
Sincerely,
Amy Jowers
Clerk to the Selectmen
Non-Public Session
Approved
Present- Town Administrator Peter Flynn, Selectmen Tom Watman, Rod Pimentel, Cordell Johnston, Joe Damour and Cheryl Morse.
The board reviewed the completed performance evaluation form and took the opportunity to comment on some of their own observations of Peter’s performance in the last year.
Peter Flynn also gave input and comments on his evaluation.
The Board unanimously agreed to continue Peter Flynn’s appointment as Town Administrator for the upcoming year at a salary (budgeted) of $77, 272.
This was to be voted officially in public session to follow.
Board came out of Non-Public Session at 10:20 pm.
Approved
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Town Hall
Present: Tom Watman, Rod Pimentel, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston, Peter Flynn, Bob Pennock, Stephany Marchant Lavallee, Carl Hamel
6:00 P.M. Review and sign Consent Agenda
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited at 6:15 P.M.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to approve the Consent Agenda items as presented, excluding the Abatement Requests, which will be considered at a later time during this meeting. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
PUBLIC FORUM
(No issues)
APPOINTMENTS
6:20 PM - Item #1: Board of Sewer Commissioners – Public Hearing
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing of the Board of Sewer Commissioners on the appeal submitted by Misty Leah, LLC regarding the billing process for multiple units. He noted this issue will be postponed until the next meeting at the request of the appellate.
Hearing no objection, Mr. Watman adjourned the Public Hearing until 6:50 P.M. to wait for another appellate to appear, as scheduled.
The Board reconvened into regular session.
Item #2: Cindy Marsland – Fire Chief Keith Gilbert Re: Street Numbering
Mr. Watman noted this issue will be postponed until the next meeting.
Item #3: Stephanie Marchant Lavallee, Re: Community Park
Stephanie Marchant Lavallee presented her interest in creating a more user friendly Community Park, noting her previous letters addressing concerns about its congestion, location of park benches, location of trash receptacles in the vicinity of the picnic tables, and the difficulty the Park and Recreation employees have with summer maintenance. She suggested moving the elm trees planted on the old papermill’s eastern parcel to the Park, as well as for the Selectmen to consider a committee to redesign the layout for the Park. Ms Lavallee offered to make specific recommendations to the Board, if desired.
Joe Damour noted the benches in Community Park were donated specifically as a memorial and that should be considered when deciding to move items. Bob Pennock noted the trees in the front of the park are not in the correct place for proper tree growth. He also noted the benches all along the downtown are owned by the town. Peter Flynn noted he has been responsible for the park, with placement of items approved by the Board. He sees the park well-used. The town Parks Department is responsible for its maintenance. Cheryl Morse agreed she would like to see fewer items in the park.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to authorize a committee consisting of the Town Administrator, Superintendent of the Transfer Station, Cheryl Morse and Stephanie Marchant Lavallee to review the organization of Community Park. Seconded by Joe Damour and approved 4-1 (Joe Damour – Yes, Cordell Johnston – Yes, Tom Watman – Yes, Rod Pimentel – Yes, Cheryl Morse – No).
Ms. Morse expressed her concern about participating on this committee, as she does not believe she has the skill to make these decisions. She will want to involve the town’s local landscapers in the work of the committee. She believes their input will be helpful in creating a more user-friendly park. The Board agreed the Committee would return to present their ideas.
PUBLIC FORUM (cont.)
Carl Hamel thanked the Board for their work on the Abatement process. He said Vision Appraisal’s appraisal stated that a different person would be visiting his property to appraise the land and requested the status on this information. Mr. Flynn agreed to follow-up on this issue.
OLD BUSINESS
Item #4: Review and Adopt Minutes of June 06, 2006 and June 13, 2006 public and non-public.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the minutes of June 06, 2006 as presented. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and approved 4-0 (Cheryl Morse abstained since she was not at the meeting).
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept the minutes of June 13, 2006 public as presented. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Watman noted the non-public minutes of the June 13, 2006 Public Hearing would be presented at the next meeting.
Consent Agenda: Abatement Request Recommendations
Cordell Johnston raised his concern about the Board denying a request for an abatement of a second assessment, requested by the owner, because it was higher than the first assessment. He was not sure this was fair. Mr. Watman pointed out the owner can appeal the Board’s decision to the Tax Court or the Board of Tax and Land Appeal. Rod Pimentel pointed out there were only two instances in town of this occurring, which is a good result.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the Abatement Requests, as submitted. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Item #5: Second Reading - Selectmen’s Evaluation Form for Town Administrator Annual Review
Mr. Watman presented the proposed Evaluation Form for the Town Administrator Annual Review process and asked for comments or suggestions. He noted he would like to have this form either be amended or approved at this time, in order to use it for the upcoming review process with the Town Administrator. He further noted all Selectmen would be requested to fill out the form, send it to him, and he would compile and present a composite of their input.
MOTION by Joe Damour to waive the third reading of the Selectmen’s Evaluation Form for Town Administrator Annual Review and approve the form, as presented. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 5-0.
APPOINTMENTS
6:50 PM: Reconvene: Item #1: Board of Sewer Commissioners – Public Hearing – Kevin Steinbach – request for retroactive fee charges waiver.
Mr. Watman reconvened the Public Hearing of the Board of Sewer Commissioners to consider Kevin Steinbach’s request for a retroactive fee charge waiver.
Mr. Flynn presented information about Mr. Steinbach’s letter to the Board of Selectmen requesting a retroactive fee waiver for his 2005 sewer bill for property at 7 Liberty Hill Rd., Building 2. Mr. Steinbach received his current bill but it had not retroactively reduced 2005 charges, based on the new town regulation. He is now requesting the Board to retroactively cover the second half of 2005 charges. He has not paid this bill and he refuses to appear before the Board to make this request, as he believes he has already done this at previous meetings.
The Board had a lengthy discussion about whether the Board had agreed at a previous meeting to retroactively reduce Mr. Steinbach’s 2005 charges, and concluded it had not. The Board had agreed to consider changing the requirements for sewer charges at Mr. Steinbach’s request and the amended ordinance was approved and in effect for 2006 sewer billing. Mr. Steinbach’s new bill for 2006 reflects these changes. Ms. Morse noted the Board had said it might consider waiving the interest charged on the unpaid bill during the review of the billing process.
Mr. Damour said he believed Mr. Steinbach’s 2005 year bill should be retroactively covered by the new billing process.
MOTION by Joe Damour to abate Mr. Steinbach’s 2005 sewer bill charges in accordance with the new billing process. Seconded by Cheryl Morse for purposes of discussion.
Mr. Damour said he makes the motion in fairness to Mr. Steinbach, as the Board had agreed it was an unfair billing process at the time. Ms. Morse noted that is would not be appropriate to abate charges for one person and not everyone. As the ordinance was now changed to be fairer, she believed that was the extent of the responsibility of lawmakers. Mr. Watman agreed it would not be fair to retroactively reduce charges for only one person.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion. The Motion was defeated on a vote of 1-5 (Joe Damour – Yes; Cordell Johnston – No; Tom Watman – No; Cheryl Morse – No; Rod Pimentel – No).
The Board discussed whether to eliminate the interest charges that had accumulated on Mr. Steinbach’s property’s sewer bill of 2005 as it remained unpaid.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to abate the interest for the second half of Kevin Steinbach’s 2005 sewer bill for 7 Liberty Hill Rd., Building 2. Seconded by Cordell Johnston.
Mr. Johnston said he was in favor of this Motion, as Mr. Steinbach had not paid his bill in good faith, during the challenge to the billing process. Mr. Watman expressed his opposition to this Motion, as he could have paid the bill during this challenge and avoided any interest charges.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion. The Motion was defeated on a vote of 2-3 (Joe Damour – No; Cordell Johnston – Yes; Tom Watman – No; Cheryl Morse – Yes, Rod Pimentel – No).
MOTION by Tom Watman to deny abatement of the sewer fees for the property located at 7 Liberty Hill Road, Building 2 for the second half of 2005. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
NEW BUSINESS
Item # 6: Review Goals and Objectives of Transfer Station Superintendent Bob Pennock
Mr. Watman noted Mr. Pennock is the first department supervisor to present goals and objectives for this coming year. He read the list of goals and objectives submitted and asked for comments and suggestions from the Board, noting the Board serves only in an advisory capacity at this time.
Ms. Morse suggested having a time line for the accomplishment of each goal. Mr. Johnston suggested an additional goal to investigate ways to reduce costs. Ms. Morse suggested, as a part of this, to compare other towns’ costs for ways to reduce taxes. Mr. Watman suggested the employees of the transfer station increase enforcement of the town’s permit system.
Mr. Flynn noted he and Mr. Pennock would meet to discuss these and other goals for the Transfer Station.
Item #7: Discussion of appointing a Realtor for sale of Eastern Parcel of the old paper mill site.
Mr. Flynn provided an update on the sale of town property, noting the old St. Theresa’s church property sold for $112,500; the property at the corner of Western Avenue and Old Hillsboro Road sold for $5,000; and, the 3.4 acre property on Bacon Road is still available with the recent withdrawal of an offer. Also pending for sale, based on a town meeting vote, is the Eastern Parcel of the old Papermill site. However, no realtor has been hired to sell it.
The Board discussed appointing the same realtor as currently hired for the Bacon Road property, Jean Hooker and Associates, and agreed this was appropriate. It was hoped that in the future there would be more time and a bidding process would be the desirable option.
MOTION by Joe Damour to retain Jean Hooker & Associates for a 90 day contract to sell Parcel 381A2 – Eastern Parcel. Seconded by Tom Watman and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Watman noted that should the new contract be identical to the Bacon Road contract, it should be added to the Consent Agenda; however, if it is not, it should be scheduled for discussion and vote on the Board agenda.
Mr. Pimentel asked about the status of the town property listing to be sent to the Conservation Commission for their review. Mr. Flynn noted he was finalizing this list and would send it to them as soon as possible.
Item #8: Review Selectmen’s Representative on the ZBA – Cordell Johnston
Mr. Johnston expressed his reservations about continuing to assign a Selectman to the Zoning Board of Adjustment, as it is a judicial body and Selectmen are members of an executive body. ZBA decisions can be appealed to the Board of Selectmen, and the Selectmen have the authority to appeal decisions of the ZBA to the state Superior Court. He is uncomfortable with the present arrangement and believes it creates potential conflicts of interest, as well as a separation of powers issue. In the absence of misconduct or dereliction of duty, the Board of Selectmen should not be involved with ZBA activity.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to eliminate the alternate position for a Selectmen’s representative to the Zoning Board of Adjustment. Seconded by Rod Pimentel for discussion.
The Board had a lengthy discussion about its role in appointing members to the ZBA, maintaining a good communication flow between the two boards, the political concern if the ZBA membership were elected rather than appointed, and the responsibility to ensure a fair composition of this Committee.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion. The Motion was approved by a vote of 4-1 (Cheryl Morse – No, Tom Watman – Yes, Cordell Johnston – Yes, Joe Damour – Yes, Rod Pimentel – Yes).
Item #9 – Appointment requests for various Committees and Boards
The Board agreed to review each Committee and Board membership, as presented, with the option to vote on all requests as one, or to individually vote on a person, as requested. The Board noted there should be some advertising scheduled to help fill the vacancies listed.
MOTION by Joe Damour to reappoint Wayne Colby to the Abandoned Cemetery Committee for a three-year term set to expire in 2009. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Damour expressed an interest in serving on this Committee, should it be appropriate for a Selectman.
The Board discussed the membership number of the Athletic Committee, currently at 15, and it was agreed that because of the various sports’ interests in town, certain members are active at different times of the year, so the membership number is appropriate. Ms. Morse, however, agreed to raise the issue of reducing membership to 11 members at the suggestion of Mr. Pimentel.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to reappoint Jaime Weston and Shannon Camara to the Athletic Committee for a three-year term set to expire in 2009. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
The Board noted the Budget Committee has three open vacancies, but no applications have been received.
MOTION by Tom Watman to reappoint Peter Flynn, Ronald Lavallee, Steven Connor, and James McElroy to the Capital Improvements Plan Committee for a three-year term set to expire in 2009, and to appoint Stephany Marchant Lavallee to a one-year term set to expire in 2007. Seconded by Cheryl Morse.
Mr. Johnston expressed his concern about having a husband and wife serve on one committee together, and noted this had been raised before. He noted this is a general concern and not regarding any specific person.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion. The Motion was unanimously approved 5-0.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to reappoint Mary-Ellen Shule, Shauna Mitchell, and Shelley Wilson to the Community Center Activities Committee for a three-year term set to expire in 2009. Seconded by Joe Damour.
Ms. Morse asked if this committee membership of 11 is realistic, and Mr. Flynn said it is, as it is a very active committee that everyone participates in; it has been very successful.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion. The Motion was unanimously approved 5-0.
MOTION by Tom Watman to reappoint Holly Green to the Conservation Committee for a three-year term set to expire in 2009, and to appoint Stephany Marchant Lavallee to a three-year term set to expire in 2009. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
The Board noted the Highway Safety Committee has automatic reappointments for the Chief of Police and the Highway Department Chief, due to supervisory positions, for a three-year term set to expire in 2009.
The Board discussed the Town Meeting vote approving of the makeup of the Historic District Commission of seven members and five alternates.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to reappoint Barbara G. French to the Historic District Commission for a three-year term set to expire in 2009. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
The Board noted there are three vacancies on the Papermill Restoration Committee, with no new applications received.
The Board noted there are five open vacancies on the Recycling Committee, with no new applications received.
Mr. Watman noted that his following motion is based on his interest in ensuring the ZBA fully represents as many views of the town, as possible. He believes the current membership of the ZBA is pro-business, and does not reflect other views.
MOTION by Tom Watman to appoint Richard Patenaude and Bob Stamps as full members to the Zoning Board of Adjustment for a three-year term set to expire in 2009, and to appoint Leon Parker and Ronald Taylor as alternate members for a three-year term set to expire in 2009, and to appoint Jeffery Connor as an alternate member for a one-year term set to expire in 2007. Seconded by Cheryl Morse.
Mr. Damour expressed his concern about Mr. Patenaude and Mr. Stamps wanting to be full members when they have applied to be alternative members.
Mr. Pimentel expressed his opposition to this Motion, as he has respected the job Mr. Parker and Mr. Taylor have done for the town as members of the ZBA.
Mr. Watman noted his interest in expanding the interests of the ZBA membership from a pro-business position to a more reflective position of the town population.
Mr. Johnston noted his agreement with Mr. Pimentel, as he believes Mr. Parker understands the zoning law better than anyone else on the committee; while this motion might change the balance of the committee, he did not believe it would make it stronger.
Ms. Morse expressed her concern about the complacency and lack of research that can result in lengthy periods of service; experience is priceless but so is research.
Mr. Watman called for a vote on the Motion. The Motion failed on a vote of 2-3 (Joe Damour – No; Cordell Johnston – No; Tom Watman – Yes; Cheryl Morse – Yes; Rod Pimentel – No).
MOTION by Rod Pimentel to reappoint Leon Parker and Ronald Taylor as full members to the Zoning Board of Adjustment for a three-year term set to expire in 2009, and to reappoint Richard Patenaude and Jeffery Connor as alternate members for a three-year term set to expire in 2009, and to appoint Bob Stamps as an alternate for a one-year term set to expire in 2007. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
PUBLIC FORUM (cont.)
Carl Hamel requested a status report on the issue of reviewing asset and income caps for the elderly and handicapped, as requested at town meeting. The Board noted this would be completed before the next budget cycle, and thanked Mr. Hamel for this reminder. Mr. Flynn noted this would be in the form of a warrant resolution by the Board.
Item #10: Town Administrators Report
Mr. Flynn noted there is nothing new to report on the Old Concord Road Sidewalk project, the West Henniker Paper Mill project, and the Pay As You Throw project. The Waste Water Engineering Upgrade project is moving along. There was a pre-construction meeting on May 17th, and a follow-up meeting on June 21st. They are setting up the infrastructure to begin work.
The sale of St. Theresa’s Church has already been reported, along with the start of the Goals and Objectives process. The Mobile Homes and RV tax issue is in committee and he has been working with Ms. Morse on the Salary and Benefits study, which she will report on later. The Department of Revenue Administration will provide its report on the Vision Contract work, and he will provide this information at the July 18th Board meeting. The Right to Know issue is still pending.
Mr. Flynn provided new information on the Henniker Lions Club Agreement, as he just received an email stating the club has agreed to end the relationship with the transfer station, due to the cost of bundling the cans by hand. He noted the funds from recycling cans will now go into the general fund.
The Hanson vs. Henniker and Richard remains in court. He is still working on an analysis of the sidewalk issue with the Highway Department, as well as the five-year road plan. He will provide an update when this is completed.
Finally, he had researched the ATV issue, and as explained in a three-page letter from town counsel, there is no longer an agreement between the Selectmen and the ATV Club to allow ATVs and snowmobiles over particularly designated road system. He has notified the appropriate town departments of this information.
Item #11: Selectmen’s Report
Joe Damour reported that the wage study committee met and is getting organized.
Cordell Johnston advised he will present his research on the tax rate issue at the next meeting. He is comparing towns of similar size and their tax rates and will present his results. So far the results show that Henniker is near the top in every category of spending and near the bottom in equalized valuation which is not the desired combination. He still needs to look at appropriations and other items.
Cheryl Morse reported the wage and benefits study committee met on June 21st and the next meeting is scheduled for August 7th. The committee is hoping the 2006 local government numbers will be available by then. The committee looked at past reviews, decided to analyze wages compared to direct budget costs with 10 other towns with similar populations - 8 above and 2 below Henniker’s number. They will have a working meeting on August 7th to review the information.
The Athletic Committee is looking for more volunteers and fields. There is a possibility it can use Cogswell money for one project, and will file for non-profit status to be able to apply for grant money. With this new committee on parks, she would like to invite local landscapers to participate, for example, move the elm trees on the Eastern Parcel to Amey Brook Park possibly. She noted to Mr. Flynn that the light pole behind Daniel’s has exposed wiring that need to be repaired as a safety issue.
She asked about the status of the Henniker Outlook and Mr. Flynn noted it would be out this week. To her further question, he noted the open highway department position is being advertised.
Rod Pimentel reported on the Conservation Commission and their efforts to have the Oxbow Coalition and the landfill Cooperative address a meeting, however, only the Coop showed up. They made their presentation, which was very informative, about the history of landfill issues and why the landfill is necessary. The recycling Committee discussed PAYT and is nearly ready to make a presentation to the Board of Selectmen. They anticipate that if supported, 2007 would be used to educate the town members and a proposal for 2008 would be put before the town.
Tom Watman reported on the Planning Board meeting. Jennifer McCourt had suggested setting up a committee to review possible rezoning of parcels on Route 114, in order to encourage commercial activities between the Weare and Bradford town lines. There was a discussion about the Planning Board’s role and the Board of Selectmen’s role involving the town road map. The Board agreed research on these roles was needed.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to adjourn. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:55 P.M.
Sincerely,
Amy Jowers
Clerk to the Selectmen
APPROVED
PUBLIC HEARING
June 13, 2006
Henniker Community Center
Present: Tom Watman, Rod Pimentel, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston, Peter Flynn, Chief Keith Gilbert, Jacob Dodge, Mick Costello, Stephany Marchut Lavallee, Ronald Lavallee, Fred Brunnhoelzl, Stephanie Costello, Wesley Nelson, Lucia Evans, Jon Evans, John Margeson, Lloyd Henderson, Cathy Whalen, Rocky Bostrom, Jim Morse, Christine Burritt, Keith DeMoura, Christine Anderson, Patti Osgood
The call to order was at 6:30 P.M.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited at 6:31 P.M.
PUBLIC HEARING
Chairman Tom Watman opened the Public Hearing at 6:32 P.M. to discuss the request to withdraw approximately $60,000 from the Fire Truck Capital Reserve Fund for the purchase and refurbishment of a used fire ladder truck from the City of Somersworth. He reviewed the chronology of this issue since 2001, noting the capital reserve fund was established in 2001 and funded with $100,000; an additional $100,000 was raised in 2002; and all of it, plus $170,000 raised in taxes, was used to purchase a new pumper fire truck in 2003. In 2004, the fire department requested funding but was denied during the budget process, due to financial concerns. In 2005, the town approved $100,000 in funding for the capital reserve to save for a new fire truck, but in 2006, a request for additional funds was defeated at Town Meeting. The Fire Truck Capital Reserve Fund has a current balance of $106,164.09.
Mr. Watman presented the Rules of Order for the Hearing: Fire Chief Keith Gilbert will present information in support of this request, followed by questions from the audience, questions from the Board, comments from the audience, and then, a final discussion for only the Board. At that time, if the request is approved, the Board will enter into a non-public session to discuss details of the sealed bid for the purchase of this fire ladder truck.
PRESENTATION
Fire Chief Keith Gilbert presented information in support of submitting a bid for the ladder truck from the City of Somersworth. He presented safety and performance aspects of the truck that will enhance the town’s ability to save lives, fight fires, improve ventilation capability and offer master stream operations, as well as reduce dangers for firemen. He discussed the new materials used in home construction and home furnishings that have increased toxicity and flammability that firemen face when responding to a burning building. He pointed out the town’s current fire truck has a 30 ft. ladder, whereas the Somersworth truck will provide a 40 ft ladder with an aerial length of 106 ft. when extended. The sites where this height is needed are New England College dormitories, Pats Peak buildings, and downtown buildings and anywhere firemen come upon chimney fires. Currently, the town must wait for a mutual aid town to lend their ladder truck for any fire at these places; it takes, at a minimum, 18 minutes for this truck to arrive. For comparison, Chief Gilbert said that in 1985 the town had two engines and two tankers to respond to 83 calls. In 2005, with two engines and two tankers, the fire department responded to 424 calls. He then reviewed the ladder truck characteristics, noting it has 20,689 miles and 3023.2 engine hours. It has a range of ladders from 10 ft. to 40 ft., plus the 106’ aerial. It has an upgraded emergency lighting system, an onboard gas generator, hand tool brackets and will fit in the fire station. He pointed out this is an opportunity to buy a good truck. A new truck will cost about $600,000 and a newer used truck will cost about $300,000. This truck will need some repairs and upgrading but will still be cheaper than waiting for a newer used truck and will improve the town’s capability to fight fires. The town’s next planned purchase is in 2014 but we can get this truck now that should last 6-7 years; this would be a cost of $12,000 per year. He recommended approving $72,000 for procurement, repairs and upgrading and adding some improved equipment to the truck. This is a low cost option that will expand the town’s fire fighting capability without adding any new taxes.
Mr. Watman opened the meeting to questions from the audience.
PUBLIC QUESTIONS:
Ron Lavallee asked how many ladder rescues have been necessary within the past 5 years. Chief Gilbert said none. Stephany Lavallee asked what the rehabilitation for the truck will consist of and how much extra this will cost. Chief Gilbert said there is rust that will need to be removed, plus a new radiator and smaller repair issues in order to bring the truck into compliance with current requirements; that is expected to be the majority of the rehabilitation. The cost is included in the amount requested, but because it is a sealed bid process, he did not want to discuss the specifics of it. Mr. Watman noted that it is a competitive bid process; however, the smallest part of the $72,000 requested is for the purchase. Chief Gilbert added that there would also be certification costs, as with the $500 ladder test.
Mr. Lavallee asked if the 424 calls in 2005 were all fires. Chief Gilbert responded they were fire calls, of which 10-12 were chimney fires. A discussion ensued about metal roofs. Ms. Lavallee asked why the urgency to purchase this truck. Chief Gilbert said he does not see this as an emergency, as he has been working on this issue since the late 1990’s; this is an opportunity available now. The City of Somersworth is holding open the bid process for the Town of Henniker to make a bid. Ms. Lavallee asked if there is a network of businesses that market used fire trucks. Chief Gilbert responded yes, there is a network of brokers and dealers as well as sales on the Internet.
Mr. Lavallee asked how many fire fighters are needed to operate the truck, what certification is required, and will it be the first on site to a fire. Chief Gilbert said there is no extra certification for this truck, Concord uses two people to operate a similar truck; as this truck does not have water or a pump on it, he plans to have it be a support vehicle. Mr. Lavallee asked what kind of bid would be necessary for the repairs and rehabilitation if the purchase were approved. Peter Flynn responded that the repairs would be conducted under sole source process if there were only one source within the area that can do the type of work needed. Mr. Watman noted that the Board is responsible for ensuring a fair bid; however, the town does not currently have any strict conflict of interest rules. Keith DeMoura asked about the cost of training. Chief Gilbert said training is done in-house.
As there were no more questions from the audience, Mr. Watman opened the Hearing to questions from the Board.
BOARD QUESTIONS
Cheryl Morse asked if the City of Somersworth is the original owner of the truck. Chief Gilbert answered yes. Cordell Johnston asked if the length of 106 ft is an accurate measurement of the ladder capability. Chief Gilbert answered that it is the manufacturer’s measurement. Rod Pimentel asked about the timeline for first responders and second responders. Chief Gilbert stated that it depends on the fire and the site involved, however, if we have this ladder truck, it will be 3 to 6 minutes for it to get on site, versus the 18 minutes minimum from a mutual aid town. Ms. Morse asked if we know more about requesting a ladder truck grant for the future. Chief Gilbert stated that everything he has read places ladder trucks as secondary priority, however, the town applies for a grant every year.
As there were no more questions from the Board, Mr. Watman opened the hearing to public statements in support or opposition from the audience.
PUBLIC STATEMENTS OF SUPPORT OR OPPOSITION
Rocky Bostrom offered a statement of support, thanking Chief Gilbert for his efforts to improve the safety of his job as a firefighter. Jon Evans offered a statement of support, noting he believes the town needs this increased safety and he trusts the experience and judgment of the fire department personnel. Lucia Evans offered a statement of support as the owner of two very large buildings in the town; she would feel safer with this capability. Keith DeMoura offered a statement of support, stating there are no new tax dollars being requested and it is worth having this capability. Ron Lavallee offered a statement of opposition, noting he is uncomfortable in having this request after funding was not approved at Town Meeting; he also has concerns about the mechanics of this truck. Stephany Lavallee offered a statement of opposition, noting she believes this truck is too old; the town should look further.
Mr. Watman closed the public participation segment of this Hearing in order for the Board to discuss the request with the purpose of making a decision and motion of recommendation. He reminded the audience that if the decision were to make an offer for the truck, the Board would enter into non-public session in order to discuss the amount of the sealed bid offer, which will not be made public until the process is over.
BOARD DISCUSSION
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to authorize the expenditure of $72,000 from the 2001 Fire Truck Capital Reserve Fund for the purchase of a fire ladder truck from the City of Somersworth and to equip and rehabilitate it into suitable working condition and to purchase related equipment, with a contingency that it must pass a ladder test. Seconded by Joe Damour.
Mr. Johnston said he intends to vote for this request, as of now. He has previously voted against putting money into the fire truck fund even though he feels there is a need for a truck. Chief Gilbert made a persuasive presentation and he is not inclined to second-guess the chief’s recommendation. Having said that, he is concerned about the Town of Henniker having the fifth highest tax rate in the state. He supports this purchase because it does not require additional tax money in order to improve the fire fighting capability of the town. However, he wanted it understood that this is not an assurance that he will support future requests that involve a large amount of tax dollars.
Ms. Morse said she believes the town vote against further funding the capital reserve fund was about money and not about the need for a truck. She came into this Hearing with doubts but has been persuaded by the chief’s creative presentation.
Mr. Pimentel said he supports the purchase of a ladder truck, which is within our budget and will allow the fire department to learn on it; he believes this is a prudent step.
Mr. Watman said he thought the presentation was excellent and justified the need for purchasing this ladder truck. He is concerned about buying a 21-year-old truck and taking a large portion of the fire truck capital reserve fund, as well as maintaining this truck. The City of Somersworth is giving it up for a reason and he wants to ensure it is properly repaired and maintained so that it will be an asset for the town.
Mr. Johnston and Mr. Watman, in response to a public session concern, noted that this public hearing is the process that was intended by the vote at town meeting to obtain authorization for the purchase of a fire truck.
Chairman Watman called for a vote on the motion and it was unanimously approved 5-0.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to enter into non-public session pursuant to RSA 91A: 3.II (d) for the purpose of purchasing town property. Seconded by Joe Damour. Roll call vote was unanimous 5-0 (Joe Damour – Yes; Tom Watman – Yes; Cordell Johnston – Yes; Cheryl Morse – Yes; Rod Pimentel – Yes).
The Board entered into non-public session at 8:05 P.M.
The board came out of non-public at 8:20PM.
Motion by Cordell Johnston to seal the minutes. Seconded by Joe Damour.
(In public Session)
A motion was made by Cheryl Morse to approve the following people to serve on the SalaryBenifit Study Committee: (Cheryl Morse-Chair) Dave Currier, Scott Davison, Russ Roy, Debbie Hooper,Ron Lavallee and Joe Damour.
Seconded by Tom Watman.
Selectmen voted unanimously to appoint as recommended. 5-0
The meeting adjourned at 830PM.
Sincerely,
Amy Jowers
APPROVED
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Town Hall
Present: Tom Watman, Rod Pimentel, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston, Peter Flynn, Jill Fournier, Keith Gilbert, Kim Johnson, John Margeson, Bob Pennock, Mick Costello, Leon Parker, Edmond Kowalski, Fred Brunnhoelzl
6:00 P.M. Review and sign Consent Agenda
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited at 6:15 P.M.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to accept the Consent Agenda items, as presented, excluding the Abatement Requests, which will be considered at a later time during this meeting. Seconded by Rod Pimentel and unanimously approved 4-0.
PUBLIC FORUM
(No issues.)
APPOINTMENTS
6:20 P.M.: Item #1- Jill Fournier – Health Office - Update on Avian Flu
Jill Fournier, the town’s Health Officer and a Capital Area Public Health Network representative, provided an update on the State’s activities regarding the Avian Flu and Pandemic Planning. She noted town officials should contact her directly if they have any questions. Due to limited resources, all state and local emergency departments, as well as volunteers, will be called upon to help in the case of a large public outbreak. The State’s pandemic plan is provided on the State’s website and is discussed at monthly meetings with town representatives and others. Mr. Watman asked if local authorities would have the authority to make decisions regarding quarantines, isolation, etc. or would the State assume this lead. Ms. Fournier stated the State will look for help outside its Health and Human Services Department, however, this is still being discussed; further information will be forthcoming. Mr. Watman said it would be advantageous to have this question and others identified in advance, so the town could prepare its local emergency plan. Ms. Fournier stated the State is developing a training program to be provided to key town personnel; the State has requested contact information on key town officials as part of this effort. Fire Chief Keith Gilbert stated the FEMA website provides an online class that town leaders are required to complete as part of a grant program. The Board is required to take the National Incidence Management System (NIMS) class, and part of this emergency planning process relates to pandemic planning. Mr. Watman requested the Board discuss the town’s current emergency plan on a future agenda.
The Board thanked Ms. Fournier for her update.
6:35 P.M.: Item #2 –Fire Chief Keith Gilbert – Discussion re: Bidding on Used Ladder Truck
Peter Flynn informed the Board the Town of Somersworth has received a federal grant to purchase a new ladder truck and is interested in selling its current truck. It will be a sealed bid process and the City will be expecting at a minimum, $10,000, for the truck. The bid is due by June 19th, as the City Council will be meeting to open the sealed bids. Mr. Watman asked why the town should buy this particular truck and noted that if the Board wants to bid, this will have to be presented at a public hearing. Chief Gilbert reviewed the specifics of the truck and provided photos of its type. Fred Brunnhoelzl offered his opinion, as he operates a company that maintains fire trucks and was able to review this particular truck and discuss with current town employees its capabilities; this truck is worth bidding for, and will end up costing about $50-60,000, with some maintenance required to bring it up to standards.
A lengthy discussion ensued about the truck, with the Board noting that any bidding and negotiating for the town would take place through them. Mr. Watman said the truck may not be worth purchasing since it is 21 years old and the town may need a better vehicle. Chief Gilbert discussed the previous issues and values of purchasing a new or used ladder truck. New ladder trucks cost $1 million and he had previously believed a used but newer truck would be a better purchase. A truck worth $250 – 300,000 was the type of vehicle he had been considering but if this truck was capable of meeting the town needs for the next five years, then he would consider it. The town’s need for a ladder truck has not gone away. This truck has drawbacks and older technology. Some of these drawbacks could be corrected by upgrades. The $10,000 truck will need additional funds ($40-50,000) for upgrades to bring it to the level the town would need to use it. However, it would offer the town an opportunity to learn how to use a ladder truck effectively and to prove or disprove whether it meets the needs of the town.
Mr. Pimentel asked how long the truck will last if it is 21 years old now. Mr. Brunnhoelzl said it should last 5-10 years, adding that it is a truck in good mechanical shape. Mr. Watman said he heard this truck had mechanical water delivery and control problems. His other concern is that at the last town meeting, 68% of the town voters said they did not want to spend extra funds for a ladder truck. Chief Gilbert responded that an older truck can sometimes have systems that are easier to maintain and use. In addition, the town voted in 2004 to fund $100,000 into a capital reserve for a ladder truck. Mr. Johnston asked how long Somersworth has owned the truck. Chief Gilbert said he believes they bought it new. Chief Gilbert reviewed control restrictions for ladder trucks and stated that parts of this truck have been recently replaced.
Mr. Johnston asked if the truck will fit into the Firestation, and Chief Gilbert said yes, it will. Joe Damour asked if the wording of the town article allows money withdrawn from the Capital Reserve to be used for repairs or renovation. Mr. Watman requested the Town Administrator have the town attorney clarify the use of the capital reserve funds.
MOTION by Rod Pimentel to schedule a Public Hearing on Tuesday, June 13th for the purpose of deciding whether to withdraw money from the Capital Reserve fund in order to submit a bid to the Town of Somersworth to purchase its used ladder truck. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 4-0.
The Board requested the Fire Department to prepare to discuss the costs of this purchase at the public hearing.
6:45 P.M.: Item #3 - Kim Johnson – tax-deeding update
Kim Johnson, Town Tax Collector, presented an update on the town’s tax collection efforts regarding property delinquent in taxes since 2002. The town needs to decide whether to deed these properties or take other action. The Board discussed procedures for taking action and agreed the Board will send a letter to the delinquent taxpayers to request a response by July 1st with either full payment of the tax due or a request for other action, otherwise the Board will plan to take action at its next regular Board meeting.
MOTION by Joe Damour to notify delinquent tax property owners to make full payment of taxes due by July 1st or request other punitive action, or the Board reserves the right to take further action. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 4-0.
7:00 P.M.: Item #4 – John Margeson – Update on Recent Storm Damage and Re-Prioritizing Summer Projects
Mr. Margeson informed the Board that the recent flood emergency had used up a large portion of his operating budget, and requested the Board approve any state or federal reimbursement funds received for this emergency be deposited into his Highway operating budget, in order for him to be able to continue summer projects. Mr. Flynn stated the town has received notice that FEMA has requested submission of reimbursement requests for funds expended on the recent flood emergency. Mr. Watman asked if there are limitations on fund use. Mr. Flynn said town funds will be reimbursed for overtime, materials, and other expenses used during the emergency. Mr. Margeson said that previously, money provided by FEMA went into the general fund and not into the Highway Department’s budget. A discussion ensued about whether a public hearing is necessary in order to move funds into the Highway Department’s budget to keep operating.
MOTION by Tom Watman for the Board to authorize the Highway Department to over expend its budget no more than the total money to be refunded by Federal and State agencies for the last emergency. Seconded by Cordell Johnston.
Mr. Watman asked how much the emergency has cost the town. Mr. Margeson said he estimates it will cost about $50,000. Mr. Margeson said he can continue with summer projects but the money will have to be replenished by the fall.
After further discuss on the town’s budgeting process and fund use, Mr. Watman withdrew his previous motion, due to an incomplete request.
MOTION by Tom Watman for the Highway Department to continue with its regular summer project schedule and accompanied expenditures. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 4-0.
Mr. Margeson provided an update on the Davison Road project. The Department is about three weeks behind on this project but it should be paved by the end of June. He noted an employee will be leaving the department at the end of this month.
OLD BUSINESS
Item #5 – Review and Adopt Lions Club/Town of Henniker Transfer Station recycling agreement proposal
Mr. Watman read an email from the Lions Club President Dick Willgoose questioning the proposed recycling agreement between the Town of Henniker and the Lions Club. Mr. Flynn noted the Club would be meeting this Thursday to review and discuss the proposed agreement, once the Board finalized it tonight.
The Board reviewed the draft and the 1992 town meeting warrant article. Bob Pennock reviewed the Lions Club’s non-compliance with the warrant article, although Mr. Pimentel noted there had been no written agreement by the town since 1992, which was also in non-compliance with the warrant article. The following changes were made to the draft agreement and approved by the Board by consensus:
--Henniker Lions Club shall remove the cans at times that are established in advance by the Superintendent of the Transfer Station;
--Henniker Lions Club shall provide to the Town Administrator a report of the annual weight of cans in pounds and the annual income and the use of income from the cans by February 1st of each year to be published in the Town Report;
--Henniker Lions Club shall provide a water cooler to the Transfer Station and an adequate supply of drinking water for the use of its employees;
--Henniker Lions Club will hand load all cans in which no charge would be assessed and therefore present no expense to the town.
Mr. Johnston pointed out that the agreement should expire at some point. The Board discussed several options and agreed to request the agreement be renewed every year by the Board of Selectmen and the Henniker Lions Club or with further action at Town Meeting.
MOTION by Joe Damour that the agreement will expire on December 31, 2006 unless renewed by mutual agreement. The agreement may be rescinded at any time by a vote at Town Meeting. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 4-0.
The Board noted that the Transfer Station should keep all cans until the Henniker Lions Club responds to the draft agreement.
Item #6 – Review of Goals and Objectives of Town Administrator
Mr. Flynn presented his goals and objectives to the Board, approximately one month prior to his performance evaluation, as required. The Board discussed his submission and requested he remove item #3 – Sales/Purchases of Town Property, as this is part of town developments. Mr. Watman asked him to attach a final copy to the evaluation form for the Board.
Item #7 – Review and Adopt Minutes of May 16, 2006 and non-public of May 16, 2006.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the minutes of the public session of May 16, 2006, as submitted. Seconded by Rod Pimentel and unanimously approved 4-0.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the minutes of the non-public session of May 16, 2006, as submitted. Seconded by Rod Pimentel and unanimously approved 4-0.
NEW BUSINESS
Item #8 – Introduction of Performance Evaluation Form for Town Administrator
Mr. Watman introduced a performance evaluation form to be used in evaluating the Town Administrator’s performance. Each Selectman should fill out and forward their input to the Chairman. The Chairman will consolidate the input and the Board will present it to the Town Administrator to review the data.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to accept the proposed Town Administrator’s performance evaluation form for a second reading at the next regular meeting of the Selectmen. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 4-0.
Item #9 – Presentation of Evaluation Forms for Town Employees - Both Supervisory and Non-Supervisory
Mr. Flynn presented forms currently used for the evaluation of Town Employees. The Board discussed the forms and requested the various performance evaluation forms be collected so that any future Board is aware of the documents used for this purpose, and to ensure they are regularly reviewed.
Item #10 – Abatements for Approval
Mr. Watman reviewed the 78 abatement requests submitted to the Town Assessor; noting that, of these, 37 (48%) were accepted and 41 (52%) were denied. He noted that once the Board accepts or rejects the results of the abatement process, any further appeal would go to the State’s Board of Tax and Land Appeals or the State Superior Court.
The Board discussed the importance of voting on these recommendations as a matter separate from the Consent Agenda, and the ability to rely on a building and land tax expert to determine the relevancy of an abatement request. It was noted that there is an additional step to take, should the resident taxpayer continue to disagree with the recommendation.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the recommendations of the Town Assessor regarding the submitted Abatements, except for Abatement #5-29. Seconded by Rod Pimentel and unanimously approved 4-0.
MOTION by Tom Watman to approve the recommendation of the Town Assessor regarding Abatement #5-29, as submitted. Seconded by Rod Pimentel and approved 3-0. Mr. Damour was excused from voting on this motion due to personal conflict.
Item #10 – Town Administrators Report
Peter Flynn reported that some of the drainage issues on Old Concord Road were completed last week and a crack was sealed. Perm-a-Drive is researching the stone wall bulge. The Paper Mill Site Committee met and discussed cleaning up the site and other portions of the project. There is nothing new on the Pay As You Throw project. The Conservation Commission will be having a meeting tomorrow night at the Grange to discuss the Solid Waste Regional Site in Canterbury with a representative from that organization. The Solid Waste Water Engineering project is moving along and is about one week behind. The Board signed off on the deed transfer for the St. Theresa’s Church property tonight. Mr. Flynn further noted that any potential progress on the Bacon Road property sale had ended.
Mr. Flynn noted the Town Administrator’s Goals and Objectives were delivered tonight. The taxation issue is still at the local government level and beyond his action at this time. Cheryl Morse will be holding a meeting on June 21st for the Salary and Benefits study; she will be bringing the committee information to the Board at its next meeting. The first meeting on the Vision contract will be in July. The mail box and suggestion box at town hall is completed. The Lions Club agreement has already been discussed. Initial steps have been taken on the court case. The school district has been contacted for their priorities for the 5-year sidewalk project downtown. He is working on the five year road plan regarding the Board’s role and the available data on the current road system. Mr. Flynn noted the town is in good shape and on target for the budget plan. There are no issues at this time, except for the flood emergency funding.
Item #12 – Selectmen’s Reports
Joe Damour asked if there is a way to acknowledge the time and effort that town volunteers had given during the recent flood emergency. The Board requested the Town Administrator to draft a communication to town employees and volunteers expressing appreciation for their help during the flooding.
Mr. Watman requested the Town Administrator remind department heads of the current personnel policy that any additions or subtractions of duties listed in a job description needs to be approved by the Board within 60 days of this change.
Public Form
Edmond Kowalski requested clarification of the town regulations on ATVs operating on Class 6 roads. He reviewed the history and research he had found on this issue, noting that one Board vote allowed restricted operation of ATVs and another decision allowed ATVs to operate on all Class 6 roads.
The Board requested the Town Administrator to review the situation with the Police Chief and reach an appropriate resolution to this issue. Mr. Kowalski will then be notified, and the Board will discuss this on a future agenda.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:55 PM.
Sincerely,
Amy Jowers
Clerk to the Selectmen
Approved
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Town Hall
Present: Tom Watman, Rod Pimentel, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston, Peter Flynn, Susan Rainier, Kirk Spofford, Ron Lavallee, Stephany Lavallee, Artie Gendreau, Peggy Gendreau, Ken Erikson, Matthew French, Bob Pennock, Jean Lewis, Tim Russell, Shawn Richard
6:00 P.M. Review and sign Consent Agenda
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited at 6:15 P.M.
Public Forum
Mr. Watman noted that copies of the rules and procedures for citizen participation during the public forum portion of Board of Selectmen meetings are available in the building entryway.
Ron Lavallee asked about a town wide plan for road repairs now made necessary by the flooding. Peter Flynn said information is still being gathered on the status of town roads, however, the Highway Department is working on a final report. He will present a report on road damage collected so far, later on in this meeting.
Bob Pennock advised that he and Tim Russell have requested that Town Hall be designated a collection place for items to be mailed to Town employee Pete Fernandez, currently serving in Baghdad, Iraq. A note to that effect with a list of items needed has been provided to each town employee and will be distributed at the Transfer Station. Anyone may contribute to this cause. Pete is reportedly doing well.
PUBLIC HEARING – 6:20 PM
Item #1: Second Reading - Sewer Ordnance Revision
Mr. Watman opened the Public Hearing at 6:20 PM to present a second reading of the proposed revision to the Town of Henniker Sewer Ordinance. He recognized Joe Damour to present this proposed revision.
Mr. Damour briefly reviewed the proposed revision to Article V – Sewer Rents and Assessments of the Town of Henniker Sewer Ordinance to require sewer rent be assessed at one unit for every 10 people in a building, rather than assessed at one unit for each business in a building. Mr. Watman noted this is the only change; however, it will correct an unclear and inequitable procedure. Ms. Morse asked if notices of this change will be sent to all town businesses. Mr. Flynn said the notices have already been sent out, and the next billing is scheduled for tomorrow. He further noted that if the Board moves that the third reading be waived and then approves this change, it will then be forwarded to the State of New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) for its approval.
MOTION by Joe Damour to waive the third reading of the proposed revision to the Town of Henniker Sewer Ordinance, as presented. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
MOTION by Joe Damour to approve the proposed revision to the Town of Henniker Sewer Ordinance, as presented, and submit it to the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services for its review and approval. Seconded by Cordell Johnston and unanimously approved 5-0.
The public hearing was closed at 6:25 PM.
APPOINTMENTS
Item #2: Ken Erikson, Discussion of Walking Trail Plan for Paper Mill Site
Ken Erikson presented for the Board’s approval two recommendations of the Paper Mill Restoration Committee regarding the remediation and restoration of the old paper mill site. The first recommendation is to direct the current engineering firm, Gomez & Sullivan, to prepare plans and permits for Alternative #5, a combination of selective parts of the first four alternatives developed to address the safety and use of the Paper Mill foundation and the least expensive option. He briefly reviewed the steps leading to this recommendation via a power point presentation. He noted alternative #5 is the choice of the Committee as it preserves the historical aspects of the site while removing the hazardous structures. The Committee is requesting approval at this time because any future repairs will need to wait until funds have been built up enough to complete them; as the current Gomez & Sullivan contract still has funds available, the Committee would like Gomez & Sullivan to finish this portion of the project. Additionally, there may be personnel retirements which will cause historical expertise to be lost from this project if not completed now.
Mr. Watman stated his concern that the Board may need to study the issue before approving the request. A lengthy Board discussion ensued about the Gomez & Sullivan contract, the site alternatives, the parameters of the remaining work required and what the Town had previously approved. Alternative #5 would preserve the granite wall, remove the turbine pit and traps underneath the foundation, as well as create an open channel for the water to flow through. Mr. Erickson stated the Committee will continue to pursue grant money to contribute towards the expense of this project.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to approve the Paper Mill Restoration Committee’s recommendation to direct Gomez & Sullivan to complete its work portion of Alternative #5 with already appropriated funds, which will entail completion of construction drawings and drafting of state permits within the previously approved contract, but with the understanding that there is no intent of the Board to request the submission of these prepared permits at this time. Seconded by Tom Watman and unanimously approved 5-0.
Mr. Erikson presented the Committee’s second recommendation to prepare a walking trail on the old paper mill site. This project would include creating a trail at two places on Western Avenue to go out to the old dam site, developing a parking area, building a platform on the headgate and then putting signs at the start of the trail so people would know how the trail can be navigated. The Committee would use donated material and volunteers in order to complete this project, at no expense to the Town.
In response to questions from the Board, Mr. Erikson noted he planned to complete this project this summer, with the help of local scout troops and local lumber businesses. The Committee planned to also cleanup the area, including ridding areas of poison ivy.
Mr. Lavallee asked about maintenance of the trail and liability in case of injuries. Mr. Watman said the assumption is the Town will be responsible for both. Ms. Morse pointed out that the Town has approved this project at Town Meeting, with implied consent for the Town to maintain it. Mr. Johnston pointed out there is a law that limits liability for land that is open to the public for recreational purposes. Mr. Watman encouraged the Committee to work on these issues, as they will need to be covered by future Town budget items.
MOTION by Rod Pimentel to approve the Paper Mill Restoration Committee’s recommendation to develop a walking trail on the western parcel of the old paper mill site, as presented. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
Consent Agenda Approval
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to approve the items of the Consent Agenda, as presented. Seconded by Joe Damour and unanimously approved 5-0.
OLD BUSINESS
Item #3: Discussion of Pay Steps
The Board reviewed research presented by Mr. Damour regarding the inconsistency in the currently approved pay scales for town employees and the town personnel policy, which does not recognize the salary holds approved in the town budget, but states annual increases will be implemented every year. The Board discussed the history leading to this issue, noting there is confusion between State and town pay scales and their implementation, as well as different interpretations of town policy.
The Board further discussed the proposed $23,000 in additional budget expenditures to bring all town employees in compliance with the town’s personnel policy. In addition, the Board noted the Cost-of-Living-Allowance (COLA) is now being granted on the anniversary date of hire, not at January 1st of this year, which is a change from previous practice.
The Board discussed the need for these issues to be addressed by a committee to be appointed to review town employee salary and benefits. They agreed the personnel policy needs to be clarified and formalized in language that everyone can understand.
MOTION by Tom Watman to affirm the Town of Henniker’s salary decisions proposed in the Town 2006 Budget and approved at the 2006 Town Meeting that are based on the Eight (8) steps of the State Employee Salary Schedule, including two steps at Grade 5, two steps at Grade 6, three steps at Grade 7 and a COLA increase upon the anniversary date. Seconded by Rod Pimentel for further discussion.
Mr. Watman expressed his opinion that the Board acted in good faith with the information provided to them, and their understanding of what was being proposed. Reaffirming these decisions would allow the Board to maintain current implementation but move forward to begin to resolve the discrepancies. Mr. Johnston agreed this was the best option at this time. Mr. Damour disagreed, stating this would only continue the violation of the Town’s personnel policy. Ms. Morse expressed her disappointment that there was no formal vote or motion of approval clearly stating these changes being made by the Board.
The MOTION was approved on a vote of 3-2 (Yes - Tom Watman, Cordell Johnston, Rod Pimentel; No - Cheryl Morse and Joe Damour).
MOTION by Tom Watman to request the Town Finance Officer to prepare a detailed salary schedule for the Board and all employees as it is being applied to the 2005-2006 year and a listing of all fringe benefits being funded by the Town. Seconded by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
The Board stated its intent to have this salary schedule be provided to Board members and every town employee. Every employee should be able to look at the salary schedule and fringe benefits and understand what they are being paid and what they are eligible for; it should be clear and understandable.
Tim Russell requested the salary committee have a member of the police department assigned since the department has a different scale from other town departments. Ms. Morse agreed to discuss this with him.
APPOINTMENT
Item #4: Jean Lewis - Update on Offers for Possible Purchase of Town Property – Possible Request for Non-Public Session Per RSA 91 A:3, II, d
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to enter into non-public session per RSA 91 A:3, II, d regarding town property sale. Joe Damour – Yes; Cordell Johnston – Yes; Tom Watman – Yes; Cheryl Morse – Yes; Rod Pimentel – Yes.
The Board entered into non-public session at 7:45 PM.
The Board reentered public session at 8:05 PM.
OLD BUSINESS
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept the public minutes of the Board of Selectmen meeting of May 2, 2006 as amended. Second by Joe Damour and approved 4-0. (Tom Watman, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston, Cheryl Morse – Yes, Rod Pimentel – Abstained, as he was not in attendance).
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to accept the non-public minutes of the Board of Selectmen meeting of May 2, 2006. Second by Joe Damour and approved 4-0. (Tom Watman, Joe Damour, Cordell Johnston, Cheryl Morse – Yes, Rod Pimentel – Abstained, as he was not in attendance)
NEW BUSINESS
Town Administrator’s Report:
Peter Flynn distributed a list of roads that were damaged by recent rains, prepared by Fire Chief, Keith Gilbert. He noted the Town Emergency command post was closed last night, Monday, May 15, 2006. The Board discussed the roads that had been closed, but noted everyone can now get to their homes and get out of their homes either via the main route or a back route.
Mr. Flynn noted the West Henniker Paper Mill issue had been addressed tonight. He reported that Ms. Morse will update the Board on the Pay As You Throw project. The sewer ordinance and the town properties for sale were also addressed tonight. Goals and Objectives will be on the agenda for a future meeting. The Mobile Home/RV taxation issue remains at the local government center for discussion.
The Vision contract review, Mailbox in Town Hall entryway, and Lions Club agreement will be on the agenda hopefully at the next meeting. The Court Case is being prepared by the attorney. The Job Description project is completed and will be part of the town employee salary committee work. The sidewalks downtown and the 5-Year Road Plan are pending for further action with the Highway Department. The issues with the Dog License process and the sealed non-public minutes have been completed.
Selectmen’s Reports:
Mr. Damour asked about the status of the request submitted by Carl Hamel last week. Mr. Flynn noted it would be handled in the near future.
Ms. Morse expressed her concern about the growing agenda for the town employee salary committee and its membership. The Board advised her to keep membership to seven and to ensure there is a proper mix of town employees, outside advisors, and former town authorities.
Ms. Morse provided a brief overview of the pay as you throw projects completed successfully by other towns, noting Peterborough’s plan was the best model for them to follow.
Ms. Morse noted the Athletic Committee is progressing well with new members. Their biggest issue is field space. Committee announcements will be ready for the next meeting.
Mr. Johnston reported on the Community Center meeting, noting the weekend teen center activities will be suspended for the summer.
MOTION by Joe Damour to adjourn. Second by Cheryl Morse and unanimously approved 5-0.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM.
Sincerely,
Amy Jowers
Clerk to the Selectmen
Town of Henniker
Board of Selectmen
APPROVED
Present: Selectmen – Tom Watman, Cordell Johnston, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour; also Peter Flynn, Kelli Conneely, Carl Hamel, Bob Pennock, Michael Pon, Jean Lewis, Shawn Richard. Selectmen Absent: Rod Pimentel
6:00 p.m. Review & Sign Consent Agenda
6:15 p.m. Pledge of Allegiance
Vote to accept Consent Agenda: MOTION by Cordell Johnston to accept consent agenda items. Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse, approved 4-0.
Public Forum
Carl Hamel asked what the process was if a citizen wished to make a comment after the board had made and seconded a motion. Tom Watman indicated the board was not obligated to allow public comment beyond the Public Forum, but at the board’s discretion it could be allowed.
Carl Hamel indicated he had tried to apply for a military exemption at the town hall and was told a discharge record was required. He requested a discharge record in February, but was informed a fire destroyed all the original government pre-1973 records and it will be several months before a replacement is processed. The deadline for applying for the military exemption was April 15th. He would like to request a deadline extension. Joe Damour indicated that it was a matter of following the State Statute, and the town administrator will find out if the board has the authority to act on an exemption extension request. If yes, the matter will be added to the next agenda; if not, then someone from the office will contact Mr. Hamel.
Bob Pennock reported to the board that he had chosen a baler based on an existing model that worked well, and it should be here within a week. Peter Flynn added that all the purchasing procedures had been followed during the procurement process.
6:20 p.m. Appointments
Old Business
Item 1: Public Hearing, Second Reading, Public Forum Policy
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to amend the Public Forum Policy with a change to the allowed time from “3-5 minutes” to “2-3 minutes.” Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse, approved 4-0.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to waive the third reading of the Public Forum Policy. Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse, approved 4-0.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept the amended Public Forum Policy. Motion seconded by Cordell Johnston, approved 4-0.
The board will receive clean copies of the policy for their policy and procedure binders. Carl Hamel suggested the policy be publicly posted.
Item 2: Public Hearing, Second Reading, Town Building Rental Policy
A change was made to the policy, raising the minimum allowable age of the authorized signer from age 18 to age 21, per common practice. Peter Flynn reported that correspondence regarding the intent of the Mason’s on charging for usage had been found, and Attorney Hatfield, on behalf of the Mason’s, had indicated in a 2001 letter that a nominal fee could be charged for facility usage. It was noted that the rental agreement does have a clause that based on hardship the board may choose to waive a rental fee.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to waive the third reading of the Town Building Rental Policy. Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse, approved 4-0.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to approve the Town Building Rental Policy as presented. Motion seconded by Joe Damour, approved 4-0.
Item 3: First Reading, Sewer Ordinance Revisions
Tom Watman clarified that the revision to the ordinance impacted multiple use commercial buildings where the sewer unit would now be based on 1 unit per 10 people, instead of 1 unit for each business in the building. The discussion with the Henniker School District regarding their billable units is currently in process.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to accept the first reading of the Sewer Ordinance Revisions. Motion seconded by Joe Damour, approved 4-0.
Item 4: Jean Lewis – Update on possible Purchase and Sale of Town Properties – request for non-public session per RSA 91-A:3,II,(d), Sale of Town Property
MOTION by Cordell Johnston at 6:50 p.m. to enter into non-public session regarding the possible sale of properties, per RSA 91-A:3,II,(d). Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse. Vote: Damour – Yes, Johnston – Yes, Morse – Yes, Watman – Yes, motion approved 4-0. Also present in non-public session: Peter Flynn, Jean Lewis, Kelli Conneely
MOTION by Cordell Johnston at 7:25 p.m. to exit non-public session. Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse, approved 4-0.
Item 5: Acceptance of Official Street Map Numbers (revised)
The agenda had originally been posted as “Official Tax Map” but it is the Official Street Map that is being presented. Peter Flynn, on behalf of Gertrude (Ging) Blanchard, presented the official street map. Additions were: Diamond Drive, Ridgetop Lane, Quarry Hill Court, Pine Hill Road extension.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to accept the additions to the official street map. Motion seconded by Cordell Johnston, approved 4-0. Joe Damour noted that the roads added to the official street map are not automatically being accepted as town roads.
Item 6: Town Administrator’s Goals & Objectives Discussion – Peter Flynn
Peter Flynn distributed a draft of his goals & objectives, and outlined the 5-point process of developing goals & objectives for personnel: develop the goal (proactive statement of purpose, instead of reactive); develop the objectives; determine a plan on how the objectives are to be accomplished; measure the progress; evaluate the progress.
Tom Watman asked about the relationship between goals & objectives and job responsibilities; he was concerned there would be too many listed instead of focusing on just the high priority items. Cheryl Morse added the goals & objectives encourage a sense of direction and long-range planning. Peter Flynn indicated the goals & objectives for each employee would be appropriate to their position and he would be working with each individual to fine tune the information when necessary.
A final version of Peter Flynn’s goals & objectives will be brought to a future meeting, with his yearly evaluation scheduled for July. Board comments on goals & objectives included routine duties not being listed unless there is something new, or the task is being done in a new format in which case it would be a one-time listing, a recommendation to have a goal be to draft a policy on future land sales as there is not one currently, and no specific system is in place. Items done every year that are ongoing should not be listed.
Peter Flynn recommended that next year the board consider two Saturday morning budget meetings with Department Heads, instead of spreading it out over several meetings. The board was in favor of his recommendation, with scheduling to be discussed at a later date.
New Business
Item 7: Waiver Timeline for Committees and Board Applications
MOTION by Joe Damour to change the timelines to recruit members for committees from April 30th to May 31st, as recommended by the town administrator. Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse, approved 4-0.
Item 8: Review and Adopt Public and Non-Public Minutes of April 18, 2006
Corrections: Item 1, change from RSA…(d) to RSA (b) in the motion; same change in public and non-public minutes. Item 3: change from Option #2 to Option #3 in text and in motion, public minutes only.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to accept the public minutes of April 18, 2006 as corrected. Motion seconded by Joe Damour, approved 4-0.
MOTION by Joe Damour to accept the non-public minutes of April 18, 2006 as corrected. Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse, approved 4-0.
Item 9: Town Administrator’s Report (report in packet, following items discussed)
1) Old Concord Road sidewalk project: nothing new to report.
2) The West Henniker Paper Mill Committee will attend the next meeting to discuss plans for future proposals.
3) Pay As You Throw: presentations will be made at future board meetings.
4) Waste Water Engineering & Upgrade: acted on already tonight.
5) Property for Sale: acted on already tonight.
6) Metered Sewer & Water: tabled per motion at prior meeting.
7) Goals & Objectives: discussed earlier.
8) Mobile Homes & RV Taxation Issue: pending clarification from legislature.
9) Salary & Benefit Study: Cheryl will comment on later.
10) Review Vision Contract Agreement: abatement process underway, 105 abatement requests were filed (approximately 5%) and will be acted on at a future meeting. The decision of the board will be either “Approved” or “Denied” and any denied abatements may be appealed to the Board of Tax and Land Appeals (BTLA) or Superior Court. Additional information will follow on analysis of Vision’s performance.
12) Fee Schedules & Rental Policy: acted on already tonight.
12) Installation of Mailbox & Suggestion Box: these will be installed in the wall in front of the town clerk’s office.
13) Sewer Ordinance: acted on already tonight
14) Amendment on Policy on Committees: acted on already tonight.
15) Proposed Public Forum Policy: acted on already tonight
16) No Item #16.
17) Henniker Lion’s Club Agreement: in process.
18) Legal Issue: pending.
19) Job Description Format Consistency: in process.
20) Sidewalk Issues: in process
21) Five-Year Road Plan: This item will be added to the board calendar for discussion at a future meeting, including information on the history of different roads, deciding if the plan is being updated often enough, and ensuring that information is accurate before budget season starts.
Item 10: Selectmen’s Report
a. Salary & Benefits Committee Update
Cheryl Morse will have more information for the board in two weeks. The committee may not start meeting regularly until July or August since that is when comparison data will be available from the LGC.
b. Department of Transportation 202 & 9 Update
Cheryl Morse discussed the plans for work on Routes 202 & 9, including rebuilding Liberty Hill Bridge (and the road closing) starting in July, with one month to build the off ramp, and another 2 months for the bridge work, with an estimated completion date of October 1st. During work on the Rush Road overpass the road would remain open, but be turned into a one lane road. The area between the Hillsboro bypass and the Rush Road overpass would then be repaved. In 2008 the Foster Hill Road intersection is slated for work. There is a need for work at the intersection of Dodge Hill Road and the Old Concord Road, including a third lane heading west as a turn lane, currently the turn is beyond 45 degrees which is difficult for tractor trailers. Rumble strips were also discussed. For 2008 work would be done at Elm Brook, and Stickney Hill with a turn lane being added. There are 5 year, 10 year, and 20 year plans. The fatalities are three times the State average on 202 & 9, due primarily to operator error. Of the accidents 20% are animal related, primarily vehicles colliding with deer. All plans are contingent upon funding.
Cordell Johnston asked if the DOT has requested any feedback on treating the road as viable at 70 mph as designed, or to try and slow the traffic down. Cheryl answered the 10 year plan was to possibly put a traffic light at the Old Concord Road & Dodge Hill Intersection and at the Golden Pineapple intersection. The 20 year plan would be to build roundabouts. These would slow down traffic by breaking up the straight stretches, and the traffic pattern interruptions are considered the best way to control speed. Currently the road handles 15,500 vehicles a day, with 23,000 expected within 10 years due to the road being a feed to the I89 corridor.
c. Notices to Dog Owners
Cheryl Morse recommended that a letter be sent out with the dog license letters regarding the need to clean up after your dog, as per the town ordinance. A notice could be put in the Outlook, the ordinance could be given out when dogs are licensed, and information could be handed out at the yearly Rabies Clinic.
d. Retiring Police Officer Mark Lindsley
MOTION by Joe Damour to award Mark Lindsley his service revolver and award the proclamation from the retirement party to him. Motion seconded by Cordell Johnston, approved 4-0.
Item 11: Request for Non-Public Session per RSA 91-A:3,II(a) for Personnel Issue and RSA 91-A,II (e) for Legal Issue
The non-public session for the legal issue will be postponed as more information is being collected. Tom Watman noted that he would not want anyone present in non-public session that may later be impacted by a decision based on discussion in non-public session.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston at 8:35 p.m. to enter into non-public session regarding a personnel issue, per RSA 91-A:3,II(a). Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse. Vote: Damour – Yes, Johnston – Yes, Morse – Yes, Watman – Yes, motion approved 4-0. Also present in non-public session: Peter Flynn, Kelli Conneely
MOTION by Cordell Johnston at 8:50 p.m. to exit non-public session. Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse, approved 4-0.
Cordell Johnston asked Peter Flynn to add to the To Do List coming up with a policy on the board regularly reviewing the sealed non-public session minutes to see if they should be unsealed.
Other discussion items:
Shawn Richards asked about who is authorized to make changes to the street map, at what intervals are they made, and who approves the changes? He noted that Lot 741 never had road frontage before, and now it shows 1250 feet, with the change having been made within the last six months. Tom Watman asked Peter Flynn to find out, and report back.
Carl Hamel asked about resolution of a personnel issue. Tom Watman indicated the board had voted to take no disciplinary action
Adjourn
MOTION by Joe Damour at 9:15 p.m. to adjourn. Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse, approved 4-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Kelli Conneely
Volunteer Clerk Pro Tem
Town of Henniker
April 18, 2006
Approved
Present: Selectmen – Tom Watman, Rod Pimentel, Cordell Johnston, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour; also Peter Flynn, Kelli Conneely, David Mercier, Frank Underwood, Stephany Marchant Lavallee, Ron Lavallee, Cynthia Marsland, Tim Russell, Michelle Moir, John Margeson, Keith Gilbert, Leon Parker, Tom French, Jean Lewis, Jerry Soulliere
6:00 p.m. Review & Sign Consent Agenda
6:15 p.m. Pledge of Allegiance
Vote to accept Consent Agenda: MOTION by Joe Damour to accept consent agenda items. Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse, approved 5-0.
Public Forum
Stephany Marchant Lavallee reported that Senator Flanders had supported House Bill 1433, which was passed, extending the moratorium on the incineration of construction and demolition debris. She also asked about plans for dealing with a possible outbreak of Avian Flu or West Nile Virus, as there is a lot of standing water in Henniker, which increases the risk factors. Tom Watman requested Peter Flynn ask the Health Officer to report to the Selectmen at a future meeting regarding the response plans for an outbreak.
6:20 p.m. Appointments
Item 1: Jean Lewis, discuss property pricing for sale of the three town lots; review sales contract
Jean Lewis spoke to the board about 3 properties that will be listed for sale: Former St. Theresa’s Catholic Church .2 acres; Old Hillsboro Road parcel, .59 acres; and Bacon Road 5.21 acres. She gave an overview of the slow real estate market, and usage for the church lot based on Planning Board comments. Peter Flynn will get additional information on permit of use for the church lot and report back to the Selectmen.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston at 6:37 p.m. to enter nonpublic session for discussion of the possible sale of real estate; as per RSA 91-A, 3,II (3). Motion seconded by Joe Damour, approved 5-0. Present in nonpublic session: Tom Watman, Rod Pimentel, Cordell Johnston, Cheryl Morse, Joe Damour, Peter Flynn, Jean Lewis, and Kelli Conneely. No action was taken in nonpublic session.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse at 6:55 p.m. to return to public session. Motion seconded by Joe Damour, approved 5-0.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to authorize Peter Flynn to sign any documents on behalf of the Selectmen regarding real estate sales, the authorization to exclude entering into Purchase & Sales Agreements. Motion seconded by Rod Pimentel, approved 5-0.
Item 2: John Margeson, review of road/sidewalk plans
Discussion ensued regarding current projects in process and how the conditions of the roads can change significantly over the winter, necessitating a reprioritization of the projects list. Tom Watman requested John Margeson contact the Henniker School Board to ask them if there are areas that should be of higher priority due to student safety concerns. The town has a 5-year plan, and has been using the Road Service Management System since at least 1997. Peter Flynn will provide the Selectmen with a copy of the 5-year plan in the next agenda packet. Cheryl Morse recommended that a report listing the major road projects be included in the Annual Report.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse that in order for the Board to be more involved in the choice of roads being repaired that in October a list of proposed projects for the next year be presented, with the understanding that the list may change in the spring after evaluation of the frost/thaw cycle effects. There was no second.
MOTION by Tom Watman that the highway department chair, after consultation with the Henniker School Board, submit a proposed 5-year plan for sidewalks; proposal to be submitted prior to the close of the next budget process. Motion seconded by Rod Pimentel, approved 5-0.
Item 3: Tom French, HTA, review engineering plans for Ramsdell Road Bridge
Tom French discussed the options for Ramsdell Road Bridge, reporting that the Department of Transportation had reviewed the options and concurred with his recommendation that the Option #3, which would rehabilitate the bridge to accommodate a 45-ton load would be best. This option is expected to have a 50-year design life. The next step is the design and bid process. Currently the bridge has been reopened for passenger cars only; the bridge use is short-term and with the continued deterioration the bridge will not pass State inspections for much longer. An earlier proposal to study the use of Ramsdell Road for a downtown bypass was halted due to lack of funding. Joe Damour asked what year the bridge was on the State list. Tom French indicated he believed it was fiscal year 2008, with funds available July 1, 2007; 80% State, 20% Town, with the State disbursing half of the80% at bid selection and the remaining half at project completion.
MOTION by Cheryl Morse to proceed with the bid and design process, as recommended in Option #3 (cost of $1,625,000 as proposed by Hoyle, Tanner & Associates. Motion seconded by Joe Damour, approved 5-0.
Item 4: Police Chief Tim Russell, Fire Chief Keith Gilbert, Rescue Chief Tom French, and Cindy Marsland, Assessing Technician regarding street numbering
Due to subdivisions and streets with numbering problems there are several streets that should be totally renumbered: Craney Hill Road, Mt. Hunger Road, Flanders Road, and two houses on Shaker Hill Road. Discussion ensued on doing the renumbering based on 50 foot increments, instead of frontage, which make it easier for fire and rescue personnel to locate an address, especially when responding to calls in the dark or when other towns are assisting. Discussion ensued on the added safety benefits of renumbering the entire town on this system rather than proceeding in small pieces.
MOTION by Tom Watman that the safety department chiefs and Cindy Marsland prepare a plan to renumber the whole town, using a 5-year plan; and to include reasons and examples on why this should be done. Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse, approved 5-0.
Tim Russell will look for maps that have would allow the 50 ft renumbering to be done without necessitating measurements being done manually. The roads that need renumbering now will be done under this 50-foot system as soon as possible, as there are house plans pending.
Item 5: Police Chief Russell, retirement announcement, recommendation for replacement
Officer Mark Lindsley will be retiring effective April 29, 2006.
Tim Russell introduced Michelle Moir, gave an overview of her qualifications, and recommended her nomination to replace Mark Lindsley.
MOTION by Cordell Johnston to accept Chief Russell’s recommendation to hire Michelle Moir as patrol officer, effective April 30, 2006. Motion seconded by Cheryl Morse, approved 5-0. Tom Watman requested that all future hiring recommendations include information on step, grade and rate of pay.
Tim Russell reported that the OHRV purchase fell through as the dealer reneged on the agreement due to inventory control issues.