Board of Selectmen, December 7, 2015
HOLDEN BOARD OF SELECTMEN
MEETING MINUTES
DECEMBER 7, 2015
6:30PM Memorial Hall
Present: Chairman Jeremy Kurtz (6:51PM) Anthony Renzoni, Tim Ethier, Kenneth O’Brien,
Members Absent: Robert Lavigne
Others Present: Jacquelyn Kelly, Town Manager
Peter Lukes, Assistant Town Manager
Liz Fotos, Town Recorder
Sel. O’Brien called the meeting to order at 6:36PM. The Board stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
- Appointments, Licenses, Permits
Sel. O’Brien told the public that they were coming into regular session from a meeting to reappoint members to the Agricultural Commission and Historic District Commission.
He told the public that the Board had reappointed Lawrence Kowalczyk, to a three year term for the Historic District Commission expiring December 31, 2018, Steve D’Aquilia to a three year term to the Agricultural Commission expiring November 2, 2018 and Denise Cummings to a three year term to the Agricultural Commission expiring November 2, 2018.
Ms. Kelly stated that her reappointments to the Conservation Commission expiring December 31, 2018 were Anthony Costello and Matt Kennedy both of which have served on the Conservation Commission for many years.
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED ENDORSE MS. KELLY’S APPOINTMENTS AS PRESENTED.
Ms. Kelly told the Board that the Town Clerk had provided the Selectmen with two lists of Annual License Renewals. The first list was a list of establishments who have reapplied and have fulfilled all of their obligations and are in compliance (White Paper). The second list is a list of establishments who still have outstanding issues with the Town (yellow paper). Ms. Kelly told the Board that in the past the Selectmen have provisionally approved the license baring everything is completed before the end of the year.
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO APPROVE THE MEMORANDUM DATED DECEMBER 7 WHICH INDICATES ESTABLISMENTS THAT ARE IN COMPLIANCE FOR ANNUAL LICENSE RENEWAL. (See Attachment)
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO CONDITIONALLY APPROVE THE MEMORANDUM DATED DECEMBER 7, 2015 FOR ANNUAL LICENSE RENEWALS PENDING COMPLIANCE PRIOR TO THE NEW YEAR. (See Attached).
- Town Manager Update
- WRSD Budget Roundtable: The District will be hosting another FY 2017 Budget Roundtable on Tuesday, January 5 ,2016 at 6:30PM in the Central District Office Curriculum Center. An invitation from the Superintendent of Schools in enclosed.
Sel. Ethier stated that he did attend the last meeting and he felt as though progress was made. He stated that Dave White, Fin Com, spoke forcefully about what he thought the problems were and that he (Sel. Ethier) intended to attending the meeting again.
Sel. Renzoni asked if they will be prepared to speak about FY 17 and the capital enhancements so they were able to give the school district advance notice on the matter.
Ms. Kelly replied that they were and that if it was appropriate to they could bring it up.
Sel. Renzoni replied that he believes that because they were talking about the budget, they would be able to discuss how they were going to handle it locally. He stated he felt it would be to the benefit of all to have something together to speak about.
Sel. O’Brien asked if Ms. Kelly had regular communication with the Superintendent.
Ms. Kelly replied that she does but not frequently. She stated that she does not talk about details until February when they have their budget but that there is open communication and they are aware of the Town’s budget.
Sel. O’Brien stated that he thinks that Ms. Kelly has worked well with the school district and that he doesn’t know what more the town could do. He asked if the administration was going to be present for the meeting.
Ms. Kelly replied that they could.
Sel. Ethier stated that it was nice to see the Town Manager and the Superintendent get along. He stated it wasn’t always like that.
Sel. Renzoni suggested a separate meeting for the Selectmen prior to this roundtable.
Sel. Ethier stated that he thinks it could be productive.
Ms. Kelly replied that she will invite them and see if they are able to come on short notice.
Sel. O’Brien asked to have town administration present at the meeting.
Ms. Kelly replied that the administration has their own meeting with the Superintendent earlier in the day (January 5, 2016).
Sel. Renzoni agreed and stated that he believes that either Ms. Kelly or Mr. Lukes should be present to support the conversation.
Sel. Ethier stated he would like to see the School Committee at the Selectmen meeting on January 4, 2016.
Sel. O’Brien replied that they cannot be ordered to come but that an invitation could be extended.
- HMLD Monthly Report: Enclose is the October 2015 Monthly Report for the Light Department prepared by Jim Robinson, General Manager
- Year-to-Date Revenue and Expenditure Report: Lori Rose, Town Accountant, has prepared the enclosed Year to Date Revenue and Expenditure Reports for the period ending October 2015.
Chairman Kurtz entered the meeting at 6:51PM.
- Annual MMA Meeting and Trade Show: The MMA Meeting and Trade Show will take place on January 22-23, 2016 at the Hynes Convention Center, Boston, she enclosed a booklet on the planned events. If you plan to attend, please contact the Town Managers office and they will assist with registration.
Ms. Kelly told the Board that additionally, the Town had hired David Lindberg for the new Building Commission. She stated that he had worked for the town doing local building inspections and he is quite accomplished. She stated that they are looking forward to working with him.
- Selectmen Subcommittee
Sel. Renzoni stated that the Community Garden was meeting December 8, 2015. He stated that they were still doing a fund raiser and have already met their first goal of raising $400 to have the match made. He stated that they were invited to compete for first place in this grant. He stated if they have the most individual donations they will win a bonus grant. He told the Board that as far as expenses, the Community Garden is trying to do all of their financials without Town support.
Sel. Renzoni stated that with regards to sending an ex officio to the Fin Com meetings; the Town bylaws prevented the Selectmen from doing that with Fin Com. He stated that the Selectmen could still go to the meetings and the Chairman would give them the microphone but it cannot be an ex officio. Sel. Renzoni stated that he intended on still attending these meetings in addition to the DPW Building meeting.
Sel. O’Brien stated that the Municipal Power and Light Advisory Committee met last Tuesday (December 1, 2015) and voted unanimously to approve the budget that J. Robinson was presenting the Selectmen with tonight.
Sel. Ethier stated that Ag Com met a few weeks ago and it was mentioned that they were looking to have a farmers market in the winter. He stated that Jed’s Hardware volunteered to host it and was very supportive of it.
Sel. Ethier stated that he spoke to Ms. Kelly and that he did attend the last IIF meeting. He stated that they were not supportive of abolishing themselves and that they explained that they were created to fund town projects and invest in stocks and bonds so that the rate of return was high. He stated that it was originally a way to earn more money and use the money for projects. He told the Board that the IRS took offense to that because it was loaned money at municipal rate and they did not find this action appropriate.
Ms. Kelly replied that it relates to the IRS policy of the use of safety bonds which are tax exempt bonds.
Sel. Ethier replied that they (IIF) felt that there were different arguments to that.
Ms. Kelly replied that that they intended to meet after the holiday along with the financial consultant as a gesture of good will. She stated that she believes everyone knows the facts but that the IIF requested a meeting so she feels that one should be arranged.
Sel. Ethier agreed that they deserved that meeting as they have served the Town well.
- Citizens Address
No Citizens stood to be recognized.
Selectmen Subcommittees Cont.
Chairman Kurtz stated that the 275th Committee continues to meet and they have announced that on January 11, 2016 they will do a kick off gala at Val’s. He stated that tickets are on sale and that there will be tee shirts and sweatshirts on sale shortly.
Chairman Kurtz stated that Sel. Lavigne was not present but that he wished to thank the Winter Festival Committee for all their hard work. He stated that it was well attended and a great day.
Sel. Ethier agreed that the day was spectacular.
Chairman Kurtz asked Ms. Kelly to pass along a thank you to the Police Department, Fire Department and DPW for being on hand and their work on that day.
Ms. Kelly replied that she would do so.
- HMLD CY 2016 Operating and Capital Budget; James Robinson, HMLD General Manager
James Robinson, HMLD General Manager presented a slide show to the Board entitled: Holden Municipal Light Department, CY 2016 Operating and Capital Budgets, December 7, 2015. (see attached).
After the presentation, Mr. Robinson fielded questions from the Board.
Sel. O’Brien thanked Mr. Robinson for presenting to the Selectmen. He stated it was great to hear all the stuff that was going on and that being on the Advisory Committee was hearing all the good news was great. He stated that one of the things with the solar projects is that when they are generated, HMLD pays them back and that is unheard of. He stated solar systems are a great thing and the fact that it is being reflected in the portfolio is fantastic.
Sel. Renzoni thanked Mr. Robinson. He asked to go back to slide 5; he asked if 15% was enough in those years or if they should be looking at more based on the prices.
Mr. Robinson replied that the cheaper the power, the more you want to buy. He stated that he knew that they wanted to look at doing a solar project out in the landfill and that everything is part of an overall portfolio. He stated it is a fairly large commitment far out for the Town. He stated the Town will benefit from the increased grown and the nuclear debt falling off.
Sel. Renzoni replied that the only reason that he suggested giving them the authorization is because it would allow him to do it; not require him to do so. He stated that if Mr. Robinson thought it was wise to do so, he could make those deals now and that he (Sel. Renzoni) had faith in giving Mr. Robinson that authorization.
Mr. Robinson replied that the phenomenon is how low it has gone. He stated that he doesn’t know if he would purchase more because they have six years to see what is going to happen.
Sel. Renzoni replied that looking at the revenue/ expenses; He stated that if they do nothing now and keep it stable it is still a reduction in rates.
Mr. Robinson agreed.
Sel. O’Brien stated that Mr. Robinson had made some recommendations and endorsements and that he felt the Board had communicated that he (Mr. Robinson) could come back in front of the Board at any time. Sel. O’Brien stated that he appreciated Mr. Robinson’s very thoughtful approach to things. He stated that he is willing to have the discussion of giving him more latitude if he feels like it is something he wants to do but if it is the pleasure of the Board he would endorse it as presented.
Sel. Ethier stated that with regards to the future power purchases, he is struck by how far out they go; he asked how they guarantee those prices.
Mr. Robinson replied that what happens is that MMWEC has a number of entitles that they buy on an ongoing rate and they bundle the Towns needs with others. He stated these are commitments. He stated that they have tightened up financial insurance rules and MMWEC set up tight criteria to enter into the contracts.
Sel. Ethier asked about Seabrook.
Mr. Robinson replied that Seabrook had commemorated its 25th anniversary. He stated that Pilgrim was 40 years old and that provided Seabrook can keep its facilities clear and with more safety features they should be good for some time.
Sel. Ethier asked if Seabrook was the last of the nuclear plants.
Mr. Robinson replied Seabrook and Millstone three.
Sel. Ethier stated that 44% of the power is out of Seabrook. He stated that with regards to solar power, 1% is not a huge percentage, and noted the Recreation Department.
Mr. Robinson replied that there is also the Worcester Water Sewer Plant. He stated that it is owned by the City of Worcester but that Holden provides the power to it.
Sel. Ethier asked if they have a solar field.
Ms. Kelly stated that they own it but it is on Holden property.
Sel. Ethier asked about the Mountview Middle School Solar construction.
Mr. Robinson replied that it was 150KW and is a big system for us.
Sel. Ethier stated that Mr. Robinson had mentioned in passing the old Town land fill; he asked if that will meet and start.
Ms. Kelly replied it is in the initial states and that there are some environmental concerns that are being dealt with and that Mr. Robinson is exploring doing solar installation in a parallel path. She stated that the installation is different then it was a number of years ago.
Sel. Ethier asked if the Town was in danger in the future with regards to the environmental concerns of the landfill.
Ms. Kelly replied that the problems are manageable and she does not think there will be any disaster. She stated they are working with DEP to make sure that what is done is consistent with their requirements.
Sel. Ethier replied that he would love to see the Town make use of that property (the landfill).
Mr. Robinson replied that was the idea. He stated it is a good spot with not a lot of neighbors, not far from the substation so they could do a dedicated line and that it would make additional payments and have additional revenues coming from the solar systems to help maintain the integrity of the landfill. He stated that they were moving ahead at a slow pace and that other issues needed to be resolved first.
Chairman Kurtz thanked Mr. Robinson for coming in. He stated going back to the rate decrease, he asked if it made sense to look at the expected revenue and expenses. He asked if Mr. Robinson was expecting the gap to close.
Mr. Robinson replied that the purchase power is 5C or above. He stated that if they can buy in the 4C range and also look at the 1% grown in revenue. He stated that he has not shown them all the different alternatives but that if they could continue to see growth at 12% over 5 years that would contribute to that forecasting as well. He stated that he does not want to build a big cushion of money; he is conservative by nature. He stated he could meet with the Board again in the Summer and show them additional information if they wanted.
Chairman Kurtz replied that what Mr. Robinson said made sense.
Mr. Robinson replied that it puts increased pressure on them to keep a lid on the costs as well.
Sel. Renzoni replied that the regarding the power supply authorization; if Mr. Robinson ultimately wanted more but the Board had not approved it, he would not be able to act on if in the event of a drop. He stated giving Mr. Robinson the authorization to more purchase power would allow him to act immediately and not miss an opportunity.
Sel. O’Brien replied that Mr. Robinson stated that he is not sure he would do anything with the additional authorization. He stated that 5 used to be great and now there is a new low. He said that the Board should trust Mr. Robinson’s management and the way that he has been budgeting. Sel. O’Brien stated that Blair is going to be put another 80 homes in and that the Town is certainly going to see additional growth. He stated that Mr. Robinson had come up with this number and that the Advisory Committee that is full of electric professionals, the superintendent of the light department and other experienced people endorsed this recommendation and he thinks that the Board should support it has it was presented.
Sel. Renzoni asked Mr. Robinson if he wanted more authorization.
Mr. Robinson replied that he thinks they should stick with the plan as presented for now. He stated that they can look at it in the summer again. He stated that if additional authority was granted to him he is not sure he would use it anyway as everyone is projecting prices to go down.
Motion by Sel. O’Brien, seconded by Sel. Renzoni, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO ACCEPT THE CY2016 HOLDEN MUNICIPAL LIGHT DEPARTMENT OPERATING BUDGET AS PRESENTED.
Motion by Sel. O’Brien, seconded by Sel. Renzoni, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO APPRPRIATE THE SUM OF $125,825 OF LIGHT DEPARTMENT FUNDS TO THE TOWN OF HOLDEN OPEB TRUST FUND IN 2016 ON A DATE TO BE DETERMINDED BY THE TOWN MANAGER
Motion by Sel. O’Brien, seconded by Sel. Renzoni, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO EXTEND AND MODIFY THE PURCHASE AUTHORITY AS PRESENTED.
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. O’Brien, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO ACCEPT THE CY2016 HOLDEN MUNICIPAL LIGHT DEPARTMENT CAPITAL BUDGET AS PRESENTED.
The Board thanked Mr. Robinson.
- Selectmen Minutes
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. O’Brien, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO APPROVE THE NOVEMBER 2, 2015 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING MINUTES AS PRESNTED.
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO APPROVE THE NOVEMBER 16, 2016 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING MINUTES AS PRESNTED.
- Selectmen Miscellaneous
Sel. O’Brien asked if there were any updates to the properties that were discussed in previous meetings.
Mr. Lukes replied that the Health Department had visited and documented his findings and made a report. He stated that he had last heard that one of the property owners had taken action and that there was a Dumpster at the other property.
Sel. O’Brien asked for additional follow up at the next meeting.
Mr. Lukes replied that he had been in contact with the Health Agent.
Sel. Ethier replied that he knew the Dumpster on Shrewsbury Street was gone. He stated that he appreciated Mr. Luke’s efforts.
Sel. Ethier stated that he had gone to the café at the Senior Center; The Morning Glory Café and he applauded them for their terrific pastries. He stated that it was well done.
Sel. Renzoni thanked the local businesses and residents for their support for everything that is needed. He stated that the initial $400 for the Community Garden was all from the local community and businesses. He stated the community also supports the Winter Festival and Memorial Day Parade.
Sel. Renzoni stated that he spoke with Jed’s and that he supported the local veterans and that they were offering to take care of veterans. He stated that they now offer local food and that they are able to use the card that Jed’s provided. Sel. Renzoni thanked everyone who donated and stated that it means a lot.
Motion by Sel. Renzoni, seconded by Sel. Renzoni, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO ADJOURN THE DECEMBER 7, 2015 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING AT 8:18PM.
APPROVED: _____January 19, 2016_______