Board of Selectmen, April 11, 2016
HOLDEN BOARD OF SELECTMEN
MEETING MINUTES
APRIL 11, 2016
6:30PM Memorial Hall
Present: Chairman Jeremy Kurtz, Anthony Renzoni, Kenneth O’Brien, Tim Ethier
Not Present: Robert Lavigne
Others Present: Jacquelyn Kelly, Town Manager
Liz Fotos, Town Recorder
Chairman Kurtz called the meeting to order at 6:30PM. The Board stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
Chairman Kurtz began the meeting by congratulating the Mountview Building Committee, Principal Githmark, and the volunteers for the new Mountview Middle School. He stated that it was three years ago today (April 11, 2013) that it was voted to move forward with the project and today, April 11, 2016 was move-in day. He stated that he had heard nothing but positive things so far and that while there were some minor traffic issues it will get better.
- Appointments, Licenses, Permits
Ms. Kelly stated that there were no appointments, licenses, or permits but that there is a continuation for the hearing for the change of manager for Papa Gino’s Restaurant. She stated that someone from Papa Gino’s will be present to speak to the Board this evening.
- Vote to Ratify Town Manager’s Merit Increase
Chairman Kurtz told the public that the Board met about three weeks ago and conducted the Town Manager’s appraisal. He stated that she had received “exceptional” and “exceeds expectations” across the board. He stated that Ms. Kelly’s fiscal management led the Town to the fourth year of not raising taxes to the full prop 2.5% and that Ms. Kelly also helped lead the Town to being ranked in the top ten for safest places to live by Safewise.
Chairman Kurtz congratulated Ms. Kelly.
Sel. Renzoni asked if the Chairman could review the terms for the public record.
Chairman Kurtz stated that there was a merit increase being given to Ms. Kelly of $5,500 which would bring her annual salary to $155,500 effective February 1, 2016.
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO RATIFY THE TOWN MANAGERS MERIT INCREASE.
- Update from DPW Facility Building Committee
Daniel Nason, Chair of the Committee was present at the meeting. He thanked the Board for allowing them to come in and give an update as to where the project stands. He stated that the Committee was formed by the Town Manager and meets regularly. He stated that they were charged with a preliminary design and timetable for a DPW Facility.
Mr. Nason stated that to date there was a feasibility study completed and an evaluation of the existing conditions of the facility completed. He stated that by doing that they were able to set a baseline for the facility, in order to create a benchmark to show the space that is needed and it allows them to then proceed to look for sites. He stated that during the evaluation process they looked at all possible sites, not just the Adams Road site. He stated they also looked at the Spring Street Garage, the Reed Rico Facility, and others.
Mr. Nason stated that they put out an RFQ for a consultant to help the Committee review potential sites both Town owned and private. That will allow them to know what criteria to look for in terms of the site, due diligence, zoning issues, environmental issues, etc.
Mr. Nason stated that phase 2 is a schematic design on the preferred site. He stated this will include site plans, architect’s rendering, a cost estimate and full time table. He stated that the Committee is asking the Annual Town Meeting for support of an Article for $315,000 to proceed with planning, site analysis and selection and due diligence.
Mr. Nason stated that they were also looking to host and Open House at the current Adams Road facility on Saturday, April 30, 2016 from 9AM to 3PM. He stated this will allow the public to look at the trucks, take a tour of the DPW facility and to see what the conditions of the current building were.
Sel. Ethier asked what the $315,000 at Town Meeting would be going for.
Mr. Nason stated that it will cover a partial schematic design of the potential site. He stated that the firm has a full staff of engineers.
Sel. Ethier stated that it was a great idea to have a facilities tour and that he is hopeful that more people will go see the current building.
Sel. Renzoni stated that with the $315,000 they would be getting due diligence and a drawing of what was going to be built. He stated that with Mountview they were very transparent and he is hopeful to have the same process this time.
Mr. Nason agreed they would.
Sel. Renzoni stated that he doesn’t think that anyone is going to debate the need for a new DPW. He stated it was just going to be a matter of where to do it and what is done.
Sel. O’Brien stated that Mr. Nason was a former Town Engineer and is now the DPW Director in Northboro. He stated the Board had some great resources on the Committee and he is excited to hear that they were moving forward in measured ways. He stated that one reason that Mountview was successful was because it was transparent. He stated he was hopeful that there will be more public information and he is happy about the Open House to begin to educate people.
Mr. Nason thanked Sel. O’Brien for his accolades but that it is the work of the whole Committee. He stated that they were doing the Open House on the same day as the Holden Baseball Opening and Parade.
Mr. Nason stated that the Committee was available for future updates if needed.
Ms. Kelly asked Mr. Nason who the people on the Committee were.
Mr. Nason replied; Jack Cross, William Randell, Mark Johnson, James Kempton, Gene Stirchak, and Dawn Michanowicz were all members and John Woodsmall, DPW Director and Mark Elbag, Water-Sewer Superintendent were both Ex-Officio Committee Members.
- Town Manager’s Update
- Year-to-Date Revenue and Expenditure Reports: Ms. Kelly enclosed the Revenue and Expenditure Reports for the period ending February 2016, prepared by Lori Rose, Town Accountant
- HMLD Monthly Report: The Monthly Report for the Light Department is attached for the month of March 2016. The report is prepared by Jim Robinson, Light Department General Manager.
Ms. Kelly told the Board that she passed along the HMLD audit and the annual return that the Selectmen had previously signed; she stated those documents were also available on the Light Department’s website.
- Update on Memorial Day Parade: Memorial Day will take place this year on Monday, May 30, 2016. The Veterans Committee has been hard at work planning for the event. A Memorial Day Flyer will be mailed out to Holden resident in the light Department billings starting this month. We are appreciative of the support Holden residents show for this annual event. As in the past, we have sent out individual letters to our business community about the Parade, as well and have already received donations to support the parade.
Ms. Kelly thanked Sel. Renzoni who is the Chairman of the VA Committee.
Sel. Renzoni thanked Ms. Kelly’s office; Robin Farrington in particular who has done a lot of work on the event. He stated that the Committee would be meeting tomorrow, April 12, 2016 in the back room of Memorial Hall. Sel. Renzoni stated that they want to incorporate some changes and more historic aspects and to place flowers on the graves of Veterans as well. He stated that there will also be military support for the event.
Chairman Kurtz interrupted Town Manager’s Update to open Citizens Address
- Citizen’s Address
Ed Meyer, Fort Sumpter Drive, stood to speak. He asked if there would be time during the Water-Sewer Rate Increase public hearing to speak.
Chairman Kurtz stated there would be time for public comment during the hearing.
No other members from the public rose to speak. Chairman Kurtz closed Citizens’ Address.
Town Manager’s Update Continued
- A notice was enclosed in the packet from the Governor’s Office certifying that, pending final passage of the bond authorization, the FY 2017 Chapter 90 apportionment for the Town of Holden is $613,619. This is the amount we anticipated in our operating budget from the Chapter 90 reimbursement program.
Sel. Ethier asked what the sources of the funds were. Ms. Kelly replied that it was bond issued.
Sel. Ethier stated that these funds cover some of the roads. Ms. Kelly replied that the work gets completed on qualifying roads and then the Town is reimbursed.
Sel. Ethier asked if the RTE 31 Bridge was covered.
Ms. Kelly replied that the Bridge was a MA DOT Project, not related to Chapter 90. However, the Shrewsbury Street project qualified for Chapter 90 Funding. She stated that Chapter 90 Funds can only be used on major collector roads. She stated the Town leveraged their Chapter 90 money wisely and they try to maximize the dollars.
- State 911 Grant, Regional Dispatch: Through the work of Chief Armstrong and Lori Rose, Town Accountant, the Town of Holden ahs been awarded a grant from the State 911 Program for Regional Dispatch in the amount of $1,045,628. According to the enclosed letter from Secretary Daniel Bennett, of the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, there is a limited pool of funds being distributed from the 911 program and awards are made competitively base don the Department’s guidelines. State-wide, there was approximately $8.0 million available in this grant round and Holden was awarded on-either of the total available. The grant will be used to complete the build-out of technology that will enable the Town of West Boylston to join the Wachusett Regional Emergency Communication Center in January 2017.
Chief Armstrong will be in attendance at your regular meeting in April to discuss the RECC.
Sel. O’Brien suggested having the person who wrote the grant come in to the meeting as well so that the Board could publically recognize and thank them. He stated that receiving that portion of the funds was a huge accomplishment and achievement.
Sel. Ethier asked if there would be a three town regional dispatch center once the grant funds are expended. Ms. Kelly confirmed it was Holden, Princeton, and West Boylston.
Chairman Kurtz paused Town Manager’s Update in order to conduct the Continued Public Hearing for the Change of Manager; Papa Gino’s Restaurant.
- Public Hearing Continuation- Change of Manager Papa Gino’s Restaurant
Chairman Kurtz asked if the representative from Papa Gino’s was present.
Gregory Carrier stepped forward.
Chairman Kurtz thanked him for coming in.
Sel. Renzoni thanked the applicant for coming in. He stated he did not know if it was explained to him but the Selectmen require that the new Managers appear before the Board if they are responsible for the selling of alcoholic beverages in Town. He asked Ms. Kelly if they had the recommendation from the police at this time. Ms. Kelly stated that Chief Armstrong had reviewed the application and there were no issues with the transfer of the new manager.
Sel. Renzoni asked if Mr. Carrier had worked as a manager in an establishment that served alcohol before.
Mr. Carrier replied that he had; he worked in Papa Gino’s in Leominster.
Sel. O’Brien stated that he was the one that was upset that no one showed up at the previous meeting. He stated that he views serving alcohol in Town as a privilege and that in this Town you need to come into the meeting and show yourself. He stated that Papa Gino’s has been a great community partner but serving alcohol is a privilege in Town and he felt is was disrespectful to not show up to the meeting. He said he did not want to diminish the fact that they had been a good corporate citizen in Town but that due diligence is needed in order to conduct business in Town.
Mr. Carrier apologized for not being at the previous meeting.
Sel. Ethier asked if Mr. Carrier lived in the area.
Mr. Carrier replied that he is currently in Auburn. He stated that he had been with several Papa Gino’s in the last ten years.
Chairman Kurtz asked if there were any citizens that would like to speak; no members of the public wished to speak.
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOSLY VOTED TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR CHANGE OF MANAGER -- PAPA GINO’S
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO APPROVE THE CHANGE OF MANAGER AT PAPA GINO’S RESTURANT AS PRESENTED.
The Board thanked the applicant for coming out.
TM Update Continued:
- Street Sweeping Schedule: the Department of Public Works has published its spring street sweeping schedule which will take place between April 10 and June 10. It has been in The Landmark and is on the Town’s website. The schedule is approximately and is greatly influenced by changing weather conditions and equipment. If there are any questions, residents may call 508-210-5550 during regular business hours
- Annual Water Use Restriction Flyer: A copy of the annual water use restriction flyer was attached to the packet. It will be included in the Light Department’s April billings starting the week of April 11th. Consistent with past years, we have enacted this restriction based upon a previous Board of Selectmen’s vote to comply with our Water Management Act Permit issued by the MA Department of Environmental Protection
Sel. O’Brien asked if that allowed for irrigation before 9AM.
Ms. Kelly confirmed it did.
Sel. O’Brien stated that the Board had enacted the level 1 drought advisory earlier in the year. He stated that from what he could tell the reservoir had filled back up; he asked if the Town was still under this advisory.
Ms. Kelly stated that she would follow up on this matter.
7) Public Hearing- Water-Sewer Rate Increase
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. O’Brien, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO OPEN THE PUBIC HEARING FOR THE WATER/ SEWER RATE INCREASE.
Chairman Kurtz asked Mr. Woodsmall, Director DPW to give a presentation on the matter. Chairman Kurtz called a 5 minutes recess at 7:20PM in order to allow Mr. Woodsmall to set up the power point presentation.
Chairman Kurtz called the meeting back to order at 7:32PM.
Mr. Woodsmall presented a Power Point Presentation entitled “Fiscal Year 2017” Water & Sewer Rates, April 11, 2016 (see attached).
Chairman Kurtz thanked Mr. Woodsmall for his presentation; he opened the floor for public comment.
Ed Meyer, Fort Sumter Drive was present at the meeting. He stated that it was good news that the Town has made small progress with UAW. He stated he would like to ask a few questions as there had been some severe swings in data that go against statistics.
Mr. Meyer gave data to the Board and the Director and asked him to explain the abnormalities.
Chairman Kurtz asked Mr. Meyer to address the Board not the DPW Director.
Mr. Meyer’s asked for someone to explain the swings in data. He asked how last year the Town went from 220 to 14.9 million gallons.
Mr. Meyer stated that it is significantly higher to purchase water from Worcester; 3.86 for 100 cubic feet; he asked why we are buying water from Worcester at a higher rate than we can produce it.
Chairman Kurtz asked if there were any additional public comments; no other members from the public spoke.
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOSLY VOTED TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Sel. Renzoni suggested inviting the DPW Director back up in order to answer questions from the Board. He thanked Mr. Woodsmall for his presentation.
Sel. Renzoni stated he wanted to make a few comments on the presentation and how we got here. He stated that in 2011 rates were restructured in an effort to stabilize the rates and provide adequate revenue to run the Division. He stated that the Board then adopted a fixed fee to recoup fixed costs, and a water use fee. The Sewer use fee is based on water consumption. He stated that when the Town changed the rate structure they moved away from annual rate increases. He said that since then there has only been two rate increases with the last increase in 2013. He stated that there was supposed to be an increase in both 2015 and 2017 but that did not happen based both on weather and good water management.
Sel. Renzoni stated that there was a citizen comment about UAW; he stated the Town stopped chasing UAW and just did good management and the numbers came down. He said that it was great news and they were still following the plan so he is hopeful the numbers will continue to decrease. He stated that as far as purchasing water from Worcester; it is done because the Town cannot produce the amount of water that is needed. He asked Mr. Woodsmall if that was correct.
Mr. Woodsmall agreed.
Sel. Renzoni stated that he appreciated the memo and presentation and the Director and the Department.
Sel. O’Brien thanked the Director. He stated that he appreciated his professionalism and the fact that he is well organized and well prepared with the statistics. He stated that he was at the Fin Com Budget Meeting and he did have a lot of questions and concerns. He stated the first thing was that the UAW dropped; he asked how that impacted revenue, if there was a relationship between revenue and UAW.
Mr. Woodsmall replied that there was no direct 1:1 coloration between the two. He stated there were many variables such as the speed in which the meters ran, meter calibration at wells, inter connection with the city, leak repairs, and more. He stated that those would be a reduction in cost but it doesn’t necessarily increase or decrease revenue. He stated a variety of things effect UAW.
Sel. O’Brien stated that one thing he had done was reinvest in the system and that had been supported by the Board of Selectmen. He said they see a decrease whether it’s increasing revenue or decreasing expenses it’s a positive thing and a net plus; he asked if that was a reasonable assumption.
Mr. Woodsmall replied that it was reasonable but not entirely correct. He stated if it was a source meter, once it is calibrated they have not physically spent more electricity or additional maintenance it’s just a volume of water that does not exist, a book figure that would reduce the UAW. He stated in general if you’re fixing a leak then you are incurring less cost, if you’re finding people with billing differences it will also impact revenue. Mr. Woodsmall stated that it is a worthwhile subject to pursue but as you get lower it tends to be diminishing returns; more effort to reduce smaller amounts. He stated that he is not advocating to stop the effort but just to say there is no simple answer and no 1:1 correlation.
Sel. O’Brien asked when they recalibrate the meter if it is more common to find meters over reading or under reading.
Mr. Woodsmall replied that there is no one consistent thing that they are finding. He said that it depends on the meter, the manufacturer, and other variables. He said to date they have found them more over reporting than under reporting.
Sel. O’Brien stated that there is a set budget and revenue is outperformed on the revenue side and Mr. Woodsmall had done a good job of managing the budget. He asked about the sewer connection fee and why it would drop in connection fees for the next budget season.
Mr. Woodsmall replied that it is an estimate based on the amount of buildings that they see built. He said that it’s a bit of a guessing game to predict the building climate down the road.
Sel. O’Brien said that the Enterprise Account was in healthy condition. He stated that there was an Emergency Reserve Account that had about $455,000 in it plus other accounts.
Mr. Woodsmall stated that they were able to access the Emergency Reserve Account with permission and there is about one month of operating expenses. He stated it is about $410,000 to $430,000 dedicated to rate reserve that can be accessed through Town Meeting if needed. He stated there is about $800,000 that floats from year to year because of the intricacies of Enterprise Account. He stated the Town needs to appropriate the Emergency Reserve and then that amount goes to Free Cash and then Free Cash funds the new Emergency Fund.
Ms. Kelly stated that with regards to the Emergency Reserves, it is something that they have been developing for a while and they try to keep the reserves at the levels they are currently at. She stated that $400,000 is one month’s operating expense, which is not very much. She stated they had accessed the rate reserve over the years to avoid increasing rates. Ms. Kelly stated that the way it is set up is working; it just so happens at this juncture they do not want to draw down the rate reserve so they are asking for a small rate increase for the sewer instead of using the rate reserve.
Sel. O’Brien replied that he understood that and he knows that is what the account is for but he does not think that he can support the rate increase. He said that there is going to be a ton of new homes being built and that he would expect that there will be even more revenue than what was conservatively budgeted for. Sel. O’Brien stated that it was a credit to his budgeting professionalism but that he is looking at the big picture. He stated there is going to be a big tax increase because of the middle school. He stated that it is not a reflection on Mr. Woodsmall but that he could not support this increase.
Sel. Ethier stated that disasters do occur and there is the need to maintain the emergency reserve. He stated that he had a few questions for Mr. Woodsmall.
Sel. Ethier asked why the Town is buying water from Worcester; what the percentage purchased was.
Mr. Woodsmall replied about a quarter to a third is purchased from Worcester.
Sel. Ethier asked if the Town maximized production from out wells.
Mr. Woodsmall replied that we did as best we could. He stated that the Town cannot run the pumps full all the time and we are able to tap into Worcester water when it is needed.
Sel. Ethier asked what the UAW was.
Ms. Kelly replied it went from 21% to 15%
Sel. Ether asked about the increase in sewer fixed rate; he asked if the $200,000 was in response to the Upper Blackstone. Mr. Woodsmall replied that this year alone about $60,000 to $70,000 was for that and if you look back to the last increase we’ve gone up $125,000 over the years.
Ms. Kelly stated that regarding Upper Blackstone; there were some major upgrades that will need to be paid for and the Town will pay its fair share. She stated that the Town is expecting some significant bills going forward.
Chairman Kurtz stated that his fundamental problem was that as he listened to the conversation and the fact that the previous Board put the rate structure in place, the increases should be about to $15.23 but it is going to $16.75. He stated it is not a 3% increase it is a 23.71% increase. He stated that is a big increase for many families in town. Chairman Kurtz asked if we knew these challenges were coming down why did we not plan for them accordingly. He stated that he understands that it sounds great that there were no increases year after year but now there was going to be a big increase.
Ms. Kelly stated that she thinks that the Chairman’s percentages are a little overstated. She said it is not that they did not plan correctly. She said that every year they are conservative in setting the water-sewer rate. Ms. Kelly stated that they could have bought smaller numbers forward over the last few years but she is not sure it would have passed like that. She stated that they are also embarking on an aggressive capital plan because many sewer lines and water lines needed updating. She stated she does not feel that the increase that Mr. Woodsmall is asking for is exorbitant. She said that prices and costs go up and they have been very measured and aware of what consumers can and must pay. She stated that staff takes rate setting seriously, they operate with a high level of professionalism and they are making a recommendation based on the best scenario for the Division and the customer. Ms. Kelly stated that no one liked to increase rates but it does occur. She stated that the Town budget is still not done, but the Board keeps referencing a major tax increase that is not the case.
Mr. Woodsmall stated that they do a five year budget projection as well and he updates it from what he is seen increase. He stated that they try to space out rate increases.
Sel. Renzoni stated that for the Board members that were not on the Board previously, as Water Commissioners, they had charged the Town Manager to establish a policy for rate stabilization. He stated that they were talking about a 3.6% overall increase. Sel. Renzoni stated that if they don’t approve this today then when it is looked at in the future it will be a bigger increase. He stated that this conversation is independent of the budget. He said that Fin Com is working very hard and has taken real measures to reduce the tax burden. He stated that it is the fourth year that the Town is not taxed to the prop 2.5% limit. He said that to categorize the year as a tough budget year is an unfair assessment.
Sel. Renzoni stated that if you remove Mountview from the conversation it is going to be an average tax year. He stated that the Board should consider, if they were not going to support this increase, are they going to support a bigger increase next year.
Chairman Kurtz replied that he agrees that they have to support what they say but that they need to get away from saying this is a 3.5% increase. He stated they have separated the two parts; fixed and non fixed. He said that fixed costs are rising 25%. He said it is what it is and they saw the increases coming and they also have more projects coming. He asked why they were not being planned for so they are not hitting residents with a large increase.
Sel. O’Brien stated that he was one of the people that pushed for the fixed rate structure and he thinks it is working well. He stated that he thinks in this situation there are significant reserves in the account and there are increasing fees. Sel. O’Brien stated that they have constantly under budgeted revenue and that he does not believe that an increase is needed at this point. Sel. O’Brien stated that if he was wrong about this he would be happy to support an increase in the future and he does support the good work that Mr. Woodsmall does but he does not support this increase.
Sel. Renzoni stated that they can not have it both ways; he said that every year that there is not an increase the Board congratulates them on a good year. He said that this is great management. He said that Board members would support a bigger increase next year but nothing this year; he said that doesn’t hold weight for an argument. Sel. Renzoni stated that no one wants to raise rates because it is not popular but this is outside the budget. He said that the professionals have laid out where it goes: insurance, raises, inflation on gas, and OPEB, he said that the increase is not an outrageous sum. He said that supporting this is good business.
Sel. Ethier asked if the proposed rate adjustment was just for sewer. He asked if it was $3.21/ month increase to make up the $200,000 that is needed. He said that is hardly a big stress and that while he knows that every bit helps, he thinks that the Board should pass it.
Chairman Kurtz replied that he struggles with the 24% increase. He said that he understands were the Director is coming from and he is not saying that management is doing a bad job he just questions if they are planning accordingly. Chairman Kurtz stated that he is not opposed to raising it, he just does not think it should be that much. He said that it is a lot to swallow for the average person; 24%.
Sel. Ethier asked where Chairman Kurtz was coming up with that increase.
Chairman Kurtz replied 13.54 is the fixed fee. Every rate payer is paying 3.54 it is going up 3.21 so a 23% increase.
Sel. Ethier stated that he does not think that most people look at it that way. He said that they look at the overall bill. He asked what the average bill people pay residentially.
Mr. Woodsmall replied that he did not have those numbers available but that it is a 3.2% increase to the overall bill not a 23% increase to the entire bill. He stated that the bill will go up $3.21.
Sel. Renzoni stated that the fixed fee costs were out of their hands. He said that if the Board is tied he suggested tabling the matter until the full Board is present and can hear the matter.
Sel. O’Brien stated that the only other comment that he will make is that if he did not take his job seriously he would support this. He said that he can see why they are coming forward with this but that the fixed fees impact those on a fixed income. He said that the people that can least afford it are the ones that are using the least water. He said this impacted them more than anyone else and it is not fair. He said that he does support the fixed fee structure. Sel. O’Brien said that he does think they have enough revenue and that they don’t need to do this. He said that he is not supporting this.
Ms. Kelly said that if they do not get this increase they will be back next year with a larger increase. She said that the budget will need to be amended because they will not be in balance and they will be using more reserves. She said that the Selectmen had established the policy to maintain these levels of reserves. Ms. Kelly stated that they have made the best estimate on revenue and that the Board does not have to agree with them but it is not going away.
Sel. Renzoni stated that not to offend anyone but that a vote against this was a vote to kick the can down the road and it gets them in trouble as politicians. He said he doesn’t think anyone would know better than the hired professionals and he urged the Board to support this.
Chairman Kurtz stated that he will support the increase but that it is his hope that management heard what was being said and that they look at future costs and take what the Board is saying to heart.
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. Ethier it was VOTED TO ADOPT THE RATE INCREASE AS PRESENTED EFFECTIVE FOR WATER SEWER BILLINGS AS OF JULY 1, 2016 BY A VOTE OF 3-1 (O’Brien: no).
Town Manager Update Cont.
- Annual License Franchise Fee: Enclosed is a letter from Thomas Cohan, Director of Government Affairs for Charter Communications, conveying the annual Public Access Grant required under the License Agreement in the amount of $279,749.51. These funds are used to offset the cost of our Holden Community Television operation. The amount is based on 4.5% of Charter’s Gross Revenue.
Sel. Ethier asked if that paid for the cable budget.
Ms. Kelly replied it did.
Se. Ethier asked why the Town did not find room to house this operation out of a municipal building.
Ms. Kelly replied that they had tried but there is no adequate space that has required studio space and ceiling height.
Sel. Ethier replied that since the Town is discussing a new town building, this may be the time to look at the possibility of putting that in the town building and saving money.
Ms. Kelly replied it was a good idea and something to think about.
- Creamer House Controlled Burn: The Fire Department has applied for and received permission from the MA Department of Environment Protection to conduct Live Fire Training at the Creamer House on June 11, 2016 with rain date of June 25, 2016. This training is an opportunity for firefighters to acquire practice under live fire conditions. As the date approaches, we will provide the actual times that the exercise is planned.
The Fire Department may use the structure for other training exercises between now and the above date.
- Wachusett Street (Rte. 31) Bridge Over Quinapoxet River: The MA Department of Transportation has returned to complete the work after the winter season. They will be milling the Wachusett Street approaches on Monday, April 25, and final paving is scheduled for Monday, May 2.
- Thomas S. Green Public Service Award: Brian Hickey, Light Department Foreman, has been awarded the 2016 Thomas S. Green Public Service Award along with four other deserving public officials in the greater Worcester area. This year’s ceremony and reception will be held at Assumption College on Thursday, April 14, 2016 starting at 5PM. The ceremony is open to the public and the Selectmen are cordially invited to attend.
Ms. Kelly stated that the composting and brush chipping takes place at the River Street and Adams Road 8AM through 2:30PM weather permitting on April 16, April 23, April 30, May 7, and May 13.
8) Vote to Layout Streets for Acceptance:
Wagner Meadows: Preservation Lane, Hayfield Lane, Wagner Lane
Stoney Brook: Joel Scott Drive
Sel. Renzoni asked if the Board was moving to accept these streets now.
Ms. Kelly replied that the Board will vote their intention to lay out the streets for acceptance tonight and then will hold a public hearing on April 25, 2016 to lay out the streets and refer them to the Planning Board. She stated after the hearing it goes to the Planning Board, the Engineering Department for recommendation, and then Town Meeting.
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO LAYOUT STREET ACCEPTANCE FOR: WAGNER MEADOWS: PRESERVATION LANE, HAYFIELD LANE, AND WAGNER LAND AND STONEY BROOK: JOEL SCOTT DRIVE AS PRESENTED. (SEE ATTACHED DOCUMENT).
9) VOTE TO OPEN, SET, AND CLOSE 2016 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT
Motion by Sel. Ethier, seconded by Sel. Renzoni, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO OPEN THE 2016 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT.
Sel. O’Brien stated that he had questions regard Warrant Article #24(Authorization to Purchase Conservation Land) and #30(Amendment to Town By-Law Regarding Overnight Parking of School Buses in Residential Areas)
Ms. Kelly stated that she did attach a memo from Pam Harding, Director regarding Open Space Acquisition, Holbrook Property Lot #5-Salisbury Street. She stated that the Town of Holden is working with the Greater Worcester Land Trust and White Oak to preserve a portion of land called the Holbrook Property. She stated that the Town is going to ask Town Meeting for permission to acquire this property for conservation and in order to purchase it the Town applied for a grant of $102,500 and this combined with donations would be what was used to purchase the property. Ms. Kelly stated that the Town would own it but it would then be turned over to the Conservation Commission to manage it.
Ms. Kelly stated that purchasing this land would be contingent upon receiving the grant. She stated that this is a great deal and she is very thankful to White Oak and the Conservation Commission for putting this together at a very low cost. She stated that at this low cost, the Town is preserving sensitive and valuable open space. Ms. Kelly stated that she is working with Town Counsel regarding the wording of the Warrant Article but they would need Town Meetings approval to acquire the real estate.
Ms. Kelly stated that with regards to Warrant Article 30; a petition was sent to the Planning Board and they did not take a position on it. She stated that the issue was regarding the neighbor that was parking the bus overnight in the yard. Ms. Kelly stated that other neighbors were not happy with the situation but as it turns out the bylaw stated that school buses are exempt. She stated this Warrant Article is asking the Town to amend the bylaw.
Sel. Ethier stated that essentially the neighbors found that those people who already had buses parked were grandfathered in. He stated that he gives the neighbors credit that the pursued this because they felt as though it shouldn’t happen to other people.
Motion by Sel. O’Brien, seconded by Sel. Renzoni, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SET AND CLOSE THE 2016 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLES.
Ms. Kelly stated that the next step was to finish the budget and write the warrant articles and then bring them to the Board.
10) Follow- Up on Citizens Address
None.
11) Selectmen Subcommittees
Sel. Renzoni stated that the VA Committee is set to discuss the parade at tomorrows meeting, at 7PM in Memorial Hall.
Sel. Renzoni stated that the Community Garden Group is meeting next door in the Starbard Building currently. He stated that he was appointed as a member and he would be resigning his current appointment but will remain involved in an advisory capacity because he does not have the time that the Group is currently putting into it.
Sel. Renzoni stated that Fin Com will wrap up their budget hearings. He stated that the Town Manager has worked to reduce the tax rate and she has reworked the resource profile as well in order to continue to bring the tax increase to a more reasonable number. He suggested giving Ms. Kelly more time on this as the final numbers were not yet in.
Sel. Ethier stated he had no updates.
Sel. O’Brien stated that the Municipal Light Group had not met.
Chairman Kurtz stated that the 275th had met recently and they are planning a Fireman’s Muster Family Day. He stated there is more to come and they will put something up on Facebook, the Town’s website and the Landmark.
12) Selectmen Minutes
Sel. Renzoni asked to table the meeting minutes for the next meeting.
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. O’Brien, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO TABLE THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING MINUTES UNTIL THE APRIL 25, 2016 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING.
13) Selectmen Miscellaneous
Sel. O’Brien stated that a few people had brought to his attention that the passing of former Selectmen Johnson had not been mentioned at the meetings. He stated that Johnson was well respected in the community and was a very dedicated man.
Sel. O’Brien stated that little league opening day was around the corner and the little league purchased 8 signs to put on the entry points of the Town. He stated the cost of the signs was $2,043 and he wanted to suggest that the Town pay the fill for these signs. He stated this was a small one time expense that the Board may want to consider using funds in the Selectmen Account. He stated that this was the first time in Town that a team had won a championship and it was a big deal; he asked the Selectmen to consider this.
Sel. Renzoni agreed; he asked to see if it could be put in the budget and asked if a vote was needed.
Ms. Kelly replied that she would look into it and if a vote is needed she will work to put it on the agenda with Chairman Kurtz.
Sel. O’Brien stated that opening day for the little league is April 30, 2016 and he has been working to get a high profile Red Sox Player to come to the day. He stated that he wanted to put it out there to see if anyone was able to facilitate this.
Sel. Ethier: none
Sel. Renzoni: none
Chairman Kurtz congratulated the Good Neighbor Award Recipient; he stated it was a fantastic night and a great event.
Sel. Ethier stated that Margaret Watson, a long time professor at Quinsigamond Community College who helped education in Town by serving on the school committee, and Ralph and Deb Thibodeau, for Josh Thibodeau Helping Hearts Foundation were the recipients of the award.
Chairman Kurtz stated that the “Kids in the Kommunity” would be at the next meeting to talk about Pay It Forward Day, May 7, 2016.
Chairman Kurtz also told the Board that anything that they wished to be on the agenda to please get to him as soon as possible as agendas were getting filled and he wants to make sure everything was scheduled accordingly.
Next Meeting: April 25, 2016
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO ADJOURN THE APRIL 11, 2016 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING AT 9:32PM.
APPROVED: __May 2, 2016______________