Board of Selectmen, May 1, 2017
HOLDEN BOARD OF SELECTMEN
MEETING MINUTES
May 1, 2017
6:34PM Memorial Hall
Present: Chairman Anthony Renzoni, Geri Herlihy, Tim Ethier, Jeremy Kurtz, Erik Scheinfeldt
Others Present: Peter Lukes, Town Manager
Liz Fotos, Town Recorder
Chairman Renzoni called the meeting to order at 6:34PM. The Board stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
- Appointments, Licenses, and Permits
Motion by Sel. Herlihy, seconded by Sel. Kurtz it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO GRANT THE TOWN MANAGER AUTHORITY TO APPROVE ANY LICENSE OR APPLICATION PRESENTED FOR THE TOWN WIDE YARD SALE.
- Meeting Minutes
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was VOTED TO APPROVE THE MARCH 20, 2017 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING MINUTES BY A VOTE OF 4-0-1(Scheinfeldt: abstain).
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO APPROVE THE APRIL 3, 2017 BOARD OF SELECTMEN GOAL SETTING MEETING MINUTES AS PRESENTED.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO APPROVE THE APRIL 3, 2017 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING MINUTES AS PRESENTED.
- Recognition of Department of Public Works Employee
John Woodsmall, Director, DPW was presented at the meeting. He stated that Chris DeMoranville was one of the Civil Engineers at DPW and was recently promoted to Supervisor of Operations.
The Board congratulated C. DeMoranville.
J. Woodsmall stated that they also wished to recognize Ken Dunn, Water Operator III. He stated that Mr. Dunn has over 38 years of experience and was doing routine duties at the water supply well station when he began to smell ammonia when doing a transfer. Mr. Dunn stopped the transfer into the tank, turned off the chemical feed tank and left the building while suffering the effects of ammonia. He notified the Water/ Sewer Superintendent and the chemical supplier responded along with a rep from the MA Environmental Protection and the Fire Department. Mr. Dunn was transported to the hospital for ammonia exposure and the water was cleaned up and ensured it was safe and there were no issues with improper chemicals into the water supply.
Mr. Woodsmall congratulated Ken Dunn for his swift actions and thinking that led to the public water supply being protected. He stated that Mr. Dunn would be awarded the Distinguished Operations Award and the DEP banquet and he thanked Mr. Dunn for his quick thinking and performance.
Chairman Renzoni asked what kind of impact the ammonia in the water could have.
Mr. Woodsmall stated that while the amount of chemical was small and gets diluted once anything gets into the system, they would need to shut down the feed from the well and then have to deal with flushing water mains, hazardous material responses and notifying residents. He stated that Mr. Dunn prevented all that from happening and when DPW was contacted by DEP they were impressed with Mr. Dunn’s ability that prevented this from becoming a major situation.
Chairman Renzoni presented Mr. Dunn with the Certificate of Recognition from the Town; the Board stood to congratulate Mr. Dunn and paused for a photo.
Chairman Renzoni stated that additionally, the Board of Selectmen wished to proclaim May 21 National Public Works Week.
Mr. Woodsmall stated that this proclamation was a way to highlight public workers and what they do. He stated that they are first responders that work closely with the police and fire departments and tend to work quietly, keeping roads clear, clean drinking water, taking dirty water way, maintaining sidewalks, parks, trees, recreation areas and more.
Chairman Renzoni stated it was a good time to be recognized as at Town Meeting, they were asking for residents to accept as a gift a piece of property for a future DPW building. He stated that the DPW had an open house
Mr. Woodsmall stated that there was a great turnout for the open house and a lot of children enjoying the trucks. He stated it was something they did annually.
Chairman Renzoni stated there was a joint meeting with Fin Com, DPW Building Committee, and the Board of Selectmen on Thursday to discuss the site further.
Mr. Woodsmall stated that it didn’t seem as though there were any surprises, he stated that everything was well laid out and that the cost was less then originally discussed.
Chairman Renzoni replied that was good. He stated consistency was good for public support
Sel. Ethier asked if the meeting was open to the public.
Mr. Woodsmall replied it was and that the engineers would be going over the assessment. He stated that the presentation would also be taped for cape so anyone not able to make it to the meeting could watch it at a later time.
Sel. Ethier asked if there was a timetable for the design of the DPW Facility.
Mr. Woodsmall replied it was on hold as they investigated 18 Industrial Drive. He stated they did not want to spend money on something if they did not acquire the land. HE stated when/ if the land was accepted they would move into design phase and then look to move forward in 6-8 months.
Sel. Ethier stated that this was a good reason to go to Town Meeting. He stated that the property was being donated so there was no acquisition costs except the remediation.
Chairman Renzoni stated that it was the most desirable location in town.
Mr. Woodsmall stated that the Committee looked at all town owned property and private owned property and came up with a list of about 35-45 locations. He stated they narrowed it down and did analysis of the top ten sites and this side was by far the highest ranking site for a DPW facility.
Chairman Renzoni stated that all abutters would be commercial/ industrial and that there was no opposition to the location by abutters.
J. Woodsmall stated that they were an industrial operation with heavy maintenance equipment and that the space was in an ideal location.
Sel. Ethier stated that he was hopeful the presentation and property were well accepted and that the Town accepts acquiring the property at Town Meeting.
Sel. Scheinfeldt stated that he attended the open house and the building was literally falling down in spaces. He stated that they will continue to spread the word as this is a much needed facility
Mr. Woodsmall stated that if any resident wished to see the current DPW building he would be happy to show them around.
Chairman Renzoni thanked Mr. Woodsmall and DPW.
- Discussion of Changes to Selectmen’s Handbook Regarding One-Day Beer, Wine Special License.
Chairman Renzoni stated there was an error in the handbook that needed to be corrected.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Scheinfeldt, it was UNANIMOSULY VOTED TO AMEND THE SELECTMEN HANDBOOK BY DELETING THE WORDS “ONE DAY ALL ALCOHOLIC AND ONE DAY WINES AND MALT DEVERAGES LICENSES ARE AVAILBALE FROM THE SELECTMEN WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS: ISSUED ONLY TO NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS, “ AND REPLACING THEM WITH
“ONE DAY SPECIAL PERMITS FOR THE SALE OF ALL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES MAY BE ISSSUED FROM THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN TO NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION ONLY. ONE DAY SPECIAL PERTMIS FOR THE SALEOF WINE AND MALT BEVERAGES MAY BE ISSUED FROM THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN TO A RESPONSIBLE MANAGER OF ANY LAWFUL INDOOR OR OUDOOOR ACTIVIEY OR ENTERPIRSE (FOR PROFIT OR NON PROFIT)”
Motion by Sel. Scheinfeldt, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO AMEND THE SELECTMEN HANDBOOK BY DELETING THE WORDS “AND LIQUOR LIABIILTY INSURANCE OF $500,000/$1,000,000” AND REPLACING THEM WITH “AND A CERTIFICATE OF INSURANCE PROVIDING COVERAGE FOR THE PERMISES WITH A MINIMUM OF $1,000,000 IN LIQUOR LIABILITY.”
- Citizens Address
Ryan McCay, 106 Bond Road was present at the meeting. He stated that he wished to address the Board regarding the Holden Farmer’s Market and it was not overseen by the Town. He stated that he was told that he was unable to join the market because of overlap however it was held on Holden Town Land and they were a large farm and it made no sense to him why a Holden Farm could not particulate in the Holden Farmer’s Market. He stated it did not make sense and that he had reached out to Ag Com and they support his thoughts on this.
Sel. Ethier asked which farm he represented.
Mr. McCay replied Lilac Hedge Farm.
Chairman Renzoni thanked him for coming out. Chairman Renzoni closed Citizen’s Address.
- Holden Girl Scout Events
A representative from Holden Girl Scouts was present at the meeting. She stated that the Girl Scouts were having the Town Wide Yard Sale and this year there would be food. She stated that one of the Boy Scout Troops would be having a plant sale at the church and another Boy Scout Troop would pick up items people had left over from their garage sales and take them for donation.
She stated that it was advertised in the Landmark and would be up on the Towns electronic board. She stated that the yard sale would be on May 13, 2017 from 8AM to 2PM rain or shine and that it was 20$ to put your home on the map and register.
She stated that for more information people could look at the Face Book Page Holden Troop 30673.
- Selectmen Miscellaneous
Sel. Herlihy stated that last Friday Zac VanDale had his Eagle Scout presentation. He worked with Chairman Renzoni and categorized all the unmarked Veterans graves and created an amazing book of Veterans stories and earned his Eagle Badge.
Sel. Kurtz reminded everyone that on May 6, 2017 the Kids in the Kommunity would be doing their annual Pay It Forward Day holding car washes at the intersection of Main Street and handing out goody bags and more. He stated that their hope was to spread the word and have a ripple effect of good deeds. Sel. Kurtz congratulated Mountview Middle School for their 5th year of this event. He urged the public to come out and support the kids and see them in action doing great things in the community. He stated it would be on May 6, 2017 from 9am to 1pm.
Sel. Scheinfeldt stated that he wished to recognize Stacy Jackson for 9 years of service on the School Committee. He stated she did not run for re election but he had worked with he in the past and she is a very dedicated town official that treated the position like a full time job. He stated that she knew the budget and did lobbying for the stated and advocated for student in town. He stated that School Committee would miss her greatly.
Chairman Renzoni seconded that sentiment. He stated that Ms. Jackson was a very dedicated School Committee member. He stated he also wished to recognize Sel. Scheinfeldt for his service on the Board of Selectmen for the past 8 months. He stated thanked Sel. Scheinfeldt for his contribution and for stepping up in the community.
Sel. Scheinfeldt stated it was a pleasure to know and work with the Board and that he would be back in some capacity to serve the Town and encouraged all residents to get involved. He stated it was a lot of hard work but it paid off and is a good lesson for the children.
Sel. Ethier thanked Sel. Scheinfeldt as well as Ms. Jackson for their time.
- Selectmen Subcommittee
Sel. Herlihy stated that the Garden Committee would meet on May 2, 2017.
Sel. Ethier stated it was regarding the Follow Up to Citizen’s Address however he wanted to discuss Holden Business in the Holden Farmers Market. He stated it was a concern of Ag Com and he was hopeful that the Board could discuss it further.
Chairman Renzoni stated that the VA Committee would be meeting later in the week and that parade would be held on May 29, 2017 at 11AM at the old police dept on Main Street. He stated they were always looking for volunteers for the event.
Chairman Renzoni stated that Fin Com was present and they would be updated later in the meeting.
- Follow Up on Citizen Address
Chairman Renzoni stated that the Holden Farmers Market was outside of the Boards jurisdiction and is a private entity. He stated that he would look into it further as he is not well versed in it other than there being no duplication of products. He stated that the Lilac Hedge Farm was a very impressive operation and he would look into the matter further for them.
Sel. Ethier asked if the Town Manager could look into it as well. He asked what influence the Town had to let our own businesses in and if the Town Manager could look at the Town bylaws as well.
Mr. Lukes replied that he thinks it is a matter or communication or perhaps to hold a second Farmers Market to allow for more vendors. He stated that it was not the first time they had received this complaint and that the matter regarding the one day liquor sales came about because of the Lilac Hedge Farm’s festival. He stated that it is encouraged to buy locally and that they would look into it and that people could also support them on July 22/23 and their festival.
- Continued Public Hearing to Layout the Following Streets: Joel Scott Drive, Teresa Drive, Colleens Way, Candlewood Drive
Chairman Renzoni stated that this was a continued Public Hearing from the previous meeting. He asked if there was any member of the public wishing to speak regarding the matter.
James McFarland, 90 Joel Scott Drive was present at the meeting. He stated that he was at the previous meeting and he had a question on maintenance.
Mr. Lukes stated this was an open issue and they had yet to be briefed by the Town Planner but they expect the report in prior to Town Meeting.
Mr. MacFarland stated there was lot of activity at the subdivision.
Mr. Lukes replied they were working with the Town to satisfy what needed to be done prior to street acceptance.
Motion by Sel. Ethier, seconded by Sel. Scheinfeldt, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR LAYOUT OF JOEL SCOTT DRIVE, TERESA DRIVE, COLLEENS WAY, AND CANDELWOOD DRIVE.
Motion by Sel. Ethier, seconded by Sel. Kurtz, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED THAT THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN OF THE TOWN OF HOLDEN LAY OUT THE FOLLOWING:
JOEL SCOTT DRIVE FROM STATION 8+01.24 TO STATION 42+53. 12 FOR A DISTANCE OF APPROXIMATLEY 3,451.88 FEET ALONG THE CENTERLINE;
TERESA DRIVE FROM STATION 0+00 TO STATION 14+74.95 FOR A DISTANCE OF APPROXIMATELY 1,474.95 FEET ALONG THE CENTERLINE;
COLLEENS WAY FROM STATION 0 +25 TO STATION 4+07.86 FOR A DISTANCE OF APPROXIMATELY 382.86 FEET ALONG THE CENTERLINE;
CANDLEWOOD DRIVE FROM STATION 0+00 TO STATION 9+67.76 FOR A DISTANCE OF APPROXIMATELY 967.76 FEET ALONG THE CENTERLINE;
AS SHOWN ON A PLAN OF LAND ENTITLED “STREET ACCEPTANCE PLAN LOCATED ON STONEY BROOK ESTATES’ PREPARED BY NEW ENGLAND ENVIRONMENTAL DEISGN, LLC, DATED MARCH 23, 2016 TO BE FILED TOGETHER WITH A COPY OF THIS VOTE IN THE OFFICE OF THE TOWN CLERK.
Chairman Renzoni called a recess at 7:19PM.
Chairman Renzoni called the meeting back to order at 7:27PM.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR STREET LAY OUT: PRESERVATION LANE.
Chairman Renzoni asked if there was anyone from the public wishing to speak on this matter. No members of the public stepped forward.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Herlihy, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR STREET LAY OUT: PRESERVATION LANE.
Motion by Sel. Scheinfeldt, seconded by Sel. Kurtz, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED THAT THE BOARD OF SELECMTEN OF THE TOWN OF HOLDEN LAY OUT THE FOLLOWING:
PRESERVATION LANE FROM STATION 0+00 TO STATIO N1+80 FOR A DISTANCE OF APPROXIMATLY 180 FEET ALONG THE CENTERLINE;
AS SHOWN ON A PLAN OF LAND ENTITLED “WAGNER MEADOWS ROAD ACCEPTANCE PLAN IN HOLDEN, MASS” PREPARED FOR CASA BUILDERS AND DEVELOPMENT CORP. PREPARED BY DAVID E ROSS ASSOCIATES, INC. DATED APRIL 2016 AND
PRESERVATION LANE FROM STATION 0.21.02 TO STATION 13.65.51 FOR A DISTANCE OF APPROXIMATLEY 1,344.49 FEET ALONG THE CENTERLINE:
AS SHOWN ON A PLAN OF LAND ENTITLED “BULLARD ESTATES IN HOLDEN MASSACHUSETTS STREET ACCEPTANCE PLAN” PREPARED FOR CASA INVESTORS, PREPARED BY NEW ENGLAND ENGINEERING, DATED APRIL 3, 2017 TO BE FILED TOGETHER WITH A COPY OF THIS VOTE IN THE OFFICE OF THE TOWN CLERK.
- Finance Committee Chairman Report on FY 18 Budget
Dave White, Chair Fin Com was present at the meeting along with, Al Berg, John Lambert, Chris Lucchesi.
Mr. White thanked the Town Manager and all the Department Heads for a very collaborate process this budget season. He stated that it began with the Resource Profile in February and came all the way to today. He stated Fin Com felt strongly that they did not want property taxes to increase more than 4% /5% and the budget that was initially received was a 9% increase. He stated that triggered a lot of work on the budget and he wanted to thank the Town Manager and Department Heads for their work.
Mr. White stated that the role of Fin Com is to receive a recommended budget by Town Administrators, Town Manager, and Department Heads and go through it and make a judgment on it based on their knowledge of the Town and tax payers. He stated that they in turn develop a budget that they deem fair and reasonable and then it goes to Town Meeting.
Mr. White stated that the Town Manager was very cooperative and was able to cut $400,000 from the Towns Operating Budget. He stated that from that point there was an increase of about $450,000 due to the debt related to Mountview Middle School which they originally thought would not be bought forward until next fall however through the recommendation of Town Accounting, the Town was able to secure permanent borrowing which added $450,000 to this year’s tax rate. Mr. White stated that Mr. Lukes did a lot of work in order to keep the town where it was and he thanked him for that.
Mr. White stated that he believes that they produced a budget where the Town was still given the level of services they were accustomed to and deserved. He stated that this year they were digging into the free cash. He stated that two years ago there was a meeting with Town Administration and they spoke about how much money there should be in stabilization in order to have a healthy model. He stated it was decided that 15% was where they wanted to get to and that they were currently at 10%. He stated that they had come a long way in a short time and that many people could remember a time where they had no stabilization account and they wanted to build a financial model that valued stabilization and free cash because it is something that they needed to get through tough times.
Mr. White stated that over four years, the tax levy had grown between 3% and 4%. He stated that this year they were using free cash to offset operating costs. He stated that the Town has free cash so they may as well use it however he stated the issue with using it was that you needed to replicate it and there was not going to be free cash going forward. He stated that would mean a large tax increase because it was a poor financial model to use free cash to pay operating expenses.
Sel. Ethier asked if he could ask a question.
Chairman Renzoni suggested waiting until the presentation was complete.
Mr. White stated that going forward there will not be any certified free cash. He stated that if the school budget is set after the tax rate is set, which did not happen last year, last year the tax rate was set early and the same thing for this year so going forward there would not be any certified free cash.
Mr. White handed out a spreadsheet to in order to show the Board where Fin Com’s positions were. He reviewed the spreadsheet with the Board.
Mr. White stated that the first category was General Government and they recommend a reduction of about $40,000.
Mr. White stated that Fin Com recommended a reduction of about $30,000 for Public Safety, $100,000 for Public Works, and $4,000 for Cultural
Mr. White stated that Fin Com recommended increasing slightly due to a Veteran Agent being bought on.
Mr. White stated that the Fin Com recommendation for the Municipal Budget was $16,305,772
Mr. White stated that with regards to the Education Budget, Fin Com recommended a reduction from $26,112,852 to $24,956,395 which was a reduction from WRSD Voluntary from $6,751,522 which was recommended by the Department to $5,595,065 which was recommended by Fin Com.
Mr. White stated that the Town Manager had recommended adding money to the Stabilization fund and while Fin Com supported that they slowed down the recommendation.
Mr. White stated that other than that Fin Com agreed with the Town Manager on. He stated that this year there was a big increase due to the debt from the Mountview Middle School Project and the permanent borrowing. He stated that this was the overview of what they had done to date. He asked if the Board had any questions regarding his presentation of the spreadsheet he had passed out.
Chairman Renzoni stated that every dollar was scrutinized by both the Town Manager and Fin Com; he asked if Mr. Lukes had any additional comments.
Mr. Lukes stated that collaboration was the key word in this process. He stated that Fin Com and he agreed on several areas and disagreed on some as well. He stated that they all thought that there was a need to tighten the belts but this budget in particular was created primarily by Ms. Kelly and he then had the opportunity to put his finger print on it when they began to make some cuts. He stated that much of the cuts were parts of things that could be put off for some time as they were not immediate needs and some line items were cost adjustments such as the insurance numbers that began as an estimate and then the final number was lower.
Mr. Lukes stated that they tried to keep the tax rate as accommodating as they could.
Chairman Renzoni stated that the rate was $17.59 and was initially coming in at $18.80. He stated the Town Manager had found about $1,000,000 in the budget to cut. He stated that the Town was looking at a large increase so he thanked Mr. Lukes and Fin Com for their hard work.
Mr. White stated that just so the public knew, Fin Com had held 12 meetings with Department Heads that ran hours long and all Fin Com members spent countless hours at home looking at the budget. He stated that this was a very deliberate process by members and nothing is done lightly.
Sel. Ethier stated that it was best to look at the budget in two parts; Municipal Budget and then School Budget. He stated that he believes that Fin Com has every right to recommend a Municipal Budget but he is not sure they have a say in the School Budget.
Sel. Ethier stated about using the Free Cash and asked who came up with the numbers surrounding the stabilization fund.
Mr. White replied it was working group that was made up of Ms. Kelly, Chairman Renzoni, and two members of Fin Com that met several times and reviewed other municipalities, bond companies and what they viewed as strong stabilization and then they developed a policy statement and came up with that percentage to aim to have in the stabilization fund.
Chairman Renzoni stated that the working group was a recommendation from Ms. Kelly’s Executive Office which has the authority and responsibility to set the policy on this and they looked for input from the Board of Selectmen and Fin Com.
Sel. Ethier stated that he questioned if the Town can put another $500,000 into a stabilization account that already has $4.4 Million in it then why would they need to cut the school budget the $500,000. He stated that puzzled him.
Chairman Renzoni asked if anyone had any questions regarding the General Government. He stated that the General Reserve Fund was not at the 15% mark that was suggested by the Town Manager and the amount of funds being allocated was reduced from $750,000 to $500,000 in order to lesson the blow to the tax payers. He stated that he felt as though the question should be if they support the General Reserve Fund not comparing it to the school budget. He stated that additionally the school budget increased 7%.
Mr. White corrected him and stated it increased 9%.
Chairman Renzoni stated that the School District Budget went from 9% to 7% and that was where it stood right now with the recommendation to set the voluntary at the lesser amount.
Sel. Ethier stated that he appreciated the efforts from the Town Manager and Fin Com. He asked what the $88,000 for Town Manager personnel was for and who requested it.
Mr. Lukes stated that there was $62,000 in cuts from Town Manager personnel budget and there was an additional expenditure added for the Population Growth Study which would be $150,000.
Sel. Ethier asked Mr. Lukes if he was in agreement with Fin Com.
Mr. Lukes replied he was and that they worked together and appreciated the efforts of Fin Com.
Chairman Renzoni stated that the School Committee gave a hefty assessment. He stated that he wanted to talk about the Voluntary Assessment
Chairman Renzoni stated there was $150,000 line item as a project to do with Free Cash. He stated that as they heard there was a chunk of it that goes into the reoccurring expense and they thought they would do a one time infrastructure project. He stated that he had missed the meeting and asked where Fin Com stood with that.
Mr. White replied that there is a five year capital plan in place. He stated that the School Department came forward with nothing at this point. He stated that the Tech Improvements that were bought forward last year were logical and there was a budget for it so it made sense to move forward. He stated this year in speaking with the Superintendent he was informed that there was $150,000 available and now all of a sudden they were looking for something to spend the funds on. He stated that they came up with a $35,000 to improve building management at the Mayo School which runs the HVAC system. Mr. White stated that it was clear to Fin Com that they had appropriated the funds and the schools were looking for something to spend it on as opposed to having a project and then approaching Fin Com for the funds. He stated that it did not appear to be a well thought out project. He stated that the Schools need a long term capital plan so Fin Com can assess if there is good value in doing something. He stated that did not happen and Fin Com had a limited appetite to move forward because there was no reasonable criteria because no plan existed.
Sel. Ethier stated that he spoke with the Superintendent about possible things he felt the schools needed. He stated that he (the Superintendent) did not know that there was money available but that the above project with the HVAC system was one that would help in a lot of ways and one that he had wanted to do for years. He stated that the Superintended did not just want to spend haphazardly and that he felt the project was worth doing. He stated that perhaps the Superintendent could make a presentation about it.
Chairman Renzoni asked Fin Com to iron out the final number the Board was looking at to make sure they were looking at the same numbers.
Chairman Renzoni stated that any additional dollar amount is going to increase the tax rate. He stated that Sel. Ethier suggested that that school could have a project together. He stated that he thought it was easy to say that you support education but now that they were voting, the conversation was a project to improve the schools but what is the project. He stated that the Board was not going to endorse something without a project. He stated that the presentation was weak as was the project.
Mr. White stated that it was the Goal for the Town Manager to have the $150,000 to Education. He stated the school stated that the project was $35,000. He stated that in a different life he does building work and that looking at this system, the schools should be looking to upgrade the building system to the same platform used at Mountview. He stated that it would not make sense to spend $35,000, it was not the right amount of money to upgrade the system and what he thinks happened was the School Department was made aware that they had an appropriation and then they hurried to put something together to spend the funds on. He stated that they have a number with no plan and they would not accept that from the Town Manager, DPW, or anyone in Town if they tried to do that. He stated that the School Department should take the item seriously through the rest of the year and develop a plan to present to the Board of Selectmen and Fin Com and then see how to fund it.
Chairman Renzoni stated that there was no project on the table and no request from the school. He stated that there was no project.
Sel. Kurtz stated that there was no project put forward. He stated that there is a 5/10 year plan for Capital Needs in Town and the schools should be no different. He stated that they had asked some very detailed questions for OPEB and not related to that but in the same vein the failure to plan impedes the Towns ability to educate a student body and that is something that should go back to the School Committee. He stated they should have a plan so that when the funds are available they can see how to deal with it and move forward. He stated that Fin Com was right; they spent a lot of time looking at it and this needs to be pushed back at the School Committee/ Superintendent.
Chairman Renzoni stated that they were not setting the Warrants yet. He stated that if there is questions about the rationale behind the numbers this was the time to ask but that he did not want to debate anything yet. He stated right now the questions as to why Fin Com was recommending or not.
Sel. Ethier asked if they had the discussion regarding the funds with Dr. McCall. He stated that $35,000 was not going to cause a huge issue.
Mr. Lukes stated that they did speak to the Superintendent when he heard that there was capital outlay. He stated that he felt as though the enthusiasm for the heating project waned after their conversation.
Mr. White stated that Mr. Berg had the answers to the Wachusett Budget for the Board.
Mr. Berg stated that they took a vote on Wednesday to not exceed $26million dollars. He took the Board through the numbers on the spreadsheet.
Mr. Berg stated that fiscal year 2017 was up about $400,000 so up about 8% for Voluntary which is the largest percentage increase. He stated in looking a this they recognize the plight of the schools and the obligation to fund them but Fin Com also recognizes the Towns property tax revenue is limited to 2.5% and all other revenue the town received goes up no more than 3%. He stated that the school budget is becoming unaffordable for Holden and other towns. He stated they pushed as much of an increase as they could for the schools but this was the number they came up with.
Chairman Renzoni asked as a point of information; he stated that the voluntary was $5,491,307. He asked what the school district assessment for the voluntary was.
Mr. Berg replied it was $5,986,307
Mr. White stated that the $495,000 reduction needed to come out of Voluntary because it could not come out of transportation, spending, or debt.
Sel. Ethier stated he was happy to hear from all members of Fin Com and that he was hopeful that Fin Com would reciprocate that when Board of Selectmen came to their meetings.
Sel. Ethier stated that $495,000 is the reduction that Fin Com made. He stated that the School Committee was an autonomous body recommended by Holden and voted by Holden and Fin Com should not be brining another number to Town Meeting. He stated it would be one thing for the Board to say they don’t want it but for another Town board to attempt to bring forth a different number then the School Committee was wrong. He stated that he does not know if it is legal but 10 people supported it and the School Committee has every right to bring it as presented. He stated if it is voted down on school floor then Fin Com can amend it but they should not be in the business of altering the School Committee budget.
Chairman Renzoni stated that the school assessment was not amendable on Town Meeting Floor
Chairman Renzoni asked what happened to the numbers if the School Committee’s numbers were put back in. He stated that as far as Fin Com’s rights, Fin Com shall consider all financial matters in Town. He stated they have to do it and then they make recommendation to Town relative to such matters so they can make a recommendation to the School District. He stated that before the question was moved, if they money is added back in, what goes the tax percentage go to.
Mr. White replied 5.1% total.
Chairman Renzoni replied an average of $256. He stated that was without the project and with Fin Com’s voluntary numbers so anything that was added back in would increase the tax bill.
Sel. Ethier stated that he had pointed out the $500,000 contribution to the Stabilization Fund. He stated that number would more than cover the school budget. He asked if the Towns bond rating was as high as it could get.
Mr. Lukes replied the Town was top rated.
Sel. Ethier stated that the Town was top rated and while it was nice to add the $500,000 to the fund he would much prefer it to be used for the schools.
Chairman Renzoni stated that the finances as it relates to finances was that they were putting $500,000 into stabilization but that those funds were free cash. He stated it was bad business to apply free cash to a reoccurring expense such as schools.
Sel. Kurtz stated that he was a little more simple for the school numbers. He stated that if he took the current Fin Com recommendation it was actually $100 less/ student from last year. He asked why the Town would do that. He stated that he took the total budget that they paid last year and the number of students the school provided (3621) for next year into the $24.9 million. He stated it ends up being about $100 less which is about $326000 shortfall before new growth. He stated they would need about $700,000 to maintain what they had last year.
Sel. White asked if Sel. Kurtz was using the debt in his numbers.
Sel. Kurtz replied he was not.
Mr. White stated that he did not see where Sel. Kurtz was getting his numbers from. He stated this year the recommendation for spending was $24,956,395 and there was 50 more students so he does not see the $100/ student decrease that Sel. Kurtz is talking about.
Sel. Scheinfeldt stated that as a point of order he agreed with Sel. Ethier that this was a legal issue. He stated that the School Committee bought the number to Town Meeting and Town Meeting shall vote on the number. He stated that Rutland tired to do this a few years ago and it was illegal so he was struggling as to what to do.
Chairman Renzoni stated that he had asked Mr. Lukes to follow up on this question.
Mr. Lukes stated that he had spoken with Town Counsel and they were able to lower the voluntary number.
Chairman Renzoni stated that he had asked last week and it was found that the Board was well within their authority. He stated that Mr. Madaus was unable to attend the meeting but they did consult him on this question
Mr. White stated that the School Committee does the same thing that Fin Com does. They recommend to Town Meeting a budget. He stated that by Fin Com setting a number that they feel the Town can afford long term it then alleviates the need for a future Town Meeting. He stated when Holden has their meeting, all the other towns will have their meetings and conventional wisdom says that the Wachusett Budget will fail. He stated that Fin Com thinks it will fail and what they did was look at what the assessment was and looked at what the Town could afford so they could see what the approval was above the number the other two towns requested. He stated the other Towns were looking to cut double what they were recommending; they wanted a 1.8 reduction to the school budget.
Sel. Ethier stated that it was his hope that the Board supported the school budget. He stated if the Board follows Fin Com, the other towns would see that as well and he hopes they look to Holden for leadership. He stated that he hoped they could all agree the schools were underfunded and that the Board should not make further cuts. He stated they needed to keep in mind if Holden cut $495,000 it is double that number because Holden is roughly half the district. He stated if the Board voted to do that, the other Towns would never pass their budgets.
Chairman Renzoni stated that Sel. Ethier sounded as though he wished to fund the Education Voluntary fully; he asked what that would do to the tax rate and tax bill,.
Mr. Lukes stated it would be about a ¢.25 increase to $18.36
Chairman Renzoni stated that would bring them to about 5 and change percentage increase in the tax rate so the bill to around 8%. He stated the argument tonight was moving forward with the School Committee numbers. He stated the rate will go up 5% and that is what they would have to debate going forward. He stated the lower number does not reduce it, it slows down the rate of increase.
Sel. Ethier stated that to reflect on the idea of free cash for ongoing expenses, the School Budget is 6.8% and the number varies widely. He stated just because the assessment is higher this year it doesn’t mean that it will be higher next year and it depends on the state.
Sel. Ethier stated that it had been mentioned that the School Budget was up from last year; he asked if everyone was aware that insurance cost was 12% and maintenance was up. He stated Special Education was up 40%, and transportation costs were huge. He stated that if they do the recommended cuts, nothing touches where the money is coming from. He stated that they could not control those aspects and if they do the $495,000 cut it is close to cutting $1 million and where would that come from.
Mr. White stated that for purposes of financial management of the budget, Holden insurance is not up 12% it was up 4%.
Sel. Ethier asked where it got cut from.
Mr. White began to reply.
Chairman Renzoni gaveled the conversation. He stated those were questions that Fin Com could not answer. He stated that they only look at the assessment, not get into the weeds about how to make the cuts. He stated that Mr. White would only be able to speculate where the cuts were coming from but the debate was for the Board to have.
Sel. Kurtz asked for the total number for the WRSD Budget.
Mr. Lukes stated that if you looked at the revised Resource Profile at the bottom of the page, WRDS School Budget was $24,956,395.He stated that the budget was reconciled with the Town Accountant and they were based on Fin Com and the assessment from the School District.
Mr. White stated to highlight, the total was $24,956.395 last year which was after the reduction that was necessary. He stated they were recommending at 1.3 increase over last years actual assessment to Holden.
Mr. White stated the 1.3 increase and 50 more students in the schools. He stated to answer a questions that was asked earlier, when the Town Administration has needs and wants, they get a budget, work the budget and manage the finances to achieve spending within their means. He stated it all comes down to the decisions that the Town Administration makes and all organizations make relative to salary, retirement, insurance and more but it comes down to bargaining and working with the unit to work the numbers to fit the budget or make a reduction. He stated they were looking at about $90 million this year and they were recommending a reduction of $1 million for the whole district. He stated that he suggests that they look to see how the funds were used and then debate with administration further about it.
Sel. Ethier stated that was Mr. White’s opinion. He stated that he wanted to know what points he could make but he was not asking his opinion about the Schools Administration and he was not interesting in cutting apart the schools. He stated that it was not up to him about the School Budget.
Chairman Renzoni asked Sel. Ethier to stop.
Mr. White stated that Fin Com recommends the budget.
Sel. Ethier stated that his opinions were different
Chairman Renzoni asked if any departments had a major gripes or concerns with the recommended budget.
Mr. Lukes stated the Administration recommended to budget as it was presented.
Chairman Renzoni asked Mr. White to remain at the meeting as the Board moved through the process. He stated that they appreciated Fin Com’s report and hard work to get through the budget process.
Mr. White stated that they could answer any questions but would not allow Fin Com to be spoken to the way they had tonight as it was inappropriate and unprofessional.
Sel. Ethier stated the feeling was mutual.
Chairman Renzoni gaveled the conversation.
Chairman Renzoni stated that personal feelings that have developed aside, it was currently 8:45PM and they were going to work though the agenda so it would be to their advantage to drop this conversation. He stated that they need to have mutual respect so with that said, the recommendation from Town Administration was to support the Fin Com proposed Budget as presented.
Chairman Renzoni suggested coming back to this debate and opening Town Meeting Warrant.
- Open, Set, and Close Town Meeting Warrant
Mr. Lukes stated Warrant Number 27 and 29 were no longer being considered.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO OPEN TOWN MEETING WARRANT AS PRESENTED.
Set:
Chairman Renzoni stated that where he stood, he did not feel as though he could support Warrant Article 16, Capital Project: WRSD, Wifi/Technology because there was no project. He stated that was where Fin Com came from with the recommendation to drop this article from this years Articles and develop a plan to better it and debate it. He stated that the Board would need a motion to remove this.
Sel. Ethier stated that it sounded as though the School Superintendent did not want to move forward and there was not a concrete plan but that it would be nice to have a school fund down the line that could be funded. He stated that he is hopeful that this is something they look at down the line.
Sel. Kurtz stated that it was said earlier that they need the School Committee to step up with a plan for funds like they do on the municipal side.
Sel. Scheinfeldt stated that he was disappointed with the School Administration and was hoping they came up with a proposal. He stated that he had chaired the Business Facilities Sub-Committee two years ago and there was a dozen Capital Projects that were needed and the fact that not one was presented was unacceptable. He stated that if they didn’t have one they didn’t have one but he was disappointed about that.
Sel. Ethier stated that perhaps they were unaware.
Sel. Scheinfeldt stated that they knew they should have had something prepared.
Chairman Renzoni stated that they know after the last meeting but they will bring it back to the School Committee through Town Manager goals and ask them to develop a plan to let the Town keep locally upgrading.
Sel. Ethier stated that it could be relayed to them that the Warrant Article was removed and that it could possibly be placed in the future. He stated that he thinks they dropped the ball.
Motion by Sel. Ethier, seconded by Sel. Kurtz, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO ELIMINATE ARTICLE 16 FROM THE 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLES.
Motion by Sel. Ethier, seconded by Sel. Scheinfeldt, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO ELIMINATE ARTICLE 27 AND ARTICLE 29 FROM THE 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLES.
Chairman Renzoni stated that right now the Board was sitting with two questionable Articles. He stated that he wanted to remind the Board that the process has been that the Town Manager hands a budget to Fin Com and they spend months reviewing it and making recommendations about what is spent. He stated that it has never deviated from that. He stated that the Board can have their opinions but they hire a Town Manager and the Town Manager says that the Board should accept the budget as presented. He stated that right now they are at a 5% increase on the tax bill so anything that they take contrary to Fin Com’s recommendation would equal more tax dollars for the residents.
Chairman Renzoni stated that Article 13 is the General Stabilization Fund. He stated the recommendation was for $500,000 to be put into it, he asked Mr. Lukes about it.
Mr. Lukes stated that he thinks it is appropriate. He stated that when they voted originally, it was to place $750,000. He stated that he thinks that the fund is at the point that they can back off a little and he had mentioned early on to Fin Com that they could do $500,000 with $150,000 for a Population and Growth Study.
Chairman Renzoni asked if there were any objections from the Board to do $500,000 for Stabilization.
Mr. Lukes stated that the $500,000 put the Town at about 10% and the goal was 15%.
Chairman Renzoni stated that jumping off the budget topic momentarily, they were speaking about a new facility and how to pay for it. He stated that the General Stabilization and IIF make the projects more palpable. He stated to not invest in it would be drastic. He asked the Boards opinions.
Sel. Ethier stated that if they recommend $500,000 into the Stabilization Fund, $350,000 came from cuts in the school budget. He stated that after they appropriated it, the Town did spend $150,000 on Wifi but the money is from the school budget and in a year that the school budget is going backwards, the increase is fixed costs and it comes right out of schools, class size, and impacts the education. He asked why they would put $500,000 into Stabilization and remove it from Education in the same year. He stated that given that the Town’s credit rating was good, he thinks that they need to think about that. He stated that he was not against putting money into Stabilization.
Chairman Renzoni suggested that the Board sets Article 13; General Stabilization Fund.
Sel. Kurtz stated that he had heard different numbers being discussed. He stated it was his understanding that there was no surplus from funds last year from the School Budget. He stated the tax rate was set right around Veterans Day and that was after the other towns had agreed to the new budget. He stated that the no surplus meant that it was never collected in taxes.
The Board reviewed the budget sheets.
Sel. Ethier asked if this was a different system to set the tax rate.
Chairman Renzoni stated it had not changed, they had just discovered a different way to do it.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Herlihy, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SET THE 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLES AS AMENDED WITH THE REMOVAL OF ARTICLE 16, ARTICLE 27, AND ARTICLE 29.
Motion by Sel. Ethier, seconded by Sel. Kurtz, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO CLOSE THE 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLES.
- Warrant Article Positions
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLES 2-5.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLES 6.1-6.8.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLES 9, 10, 11, AND 12.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Herlihy, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLE 14.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Herlihy, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLE 15, AND 17-20.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLES 21-24.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLE 25.
Sel. Ethier asked about Warrant Article 26.
Mr. Lukes stated that they were increasing the frontage from 60ft -70ft.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLE 26.
Sel. Kurtz stated that he would make a motion to support Article 28. He stated that he understood that they were going to be getting a briefing on this but looking at the information provide he stated that he did not see any way to not move forward. He stated that he thinks this should move forward.
Chairman Renzoni stated that they do not have all the information that they need to weigh in on this item. He stated all they would be doing was putting it off until the Board of Selectmen Meeting before Town Meeting. He stated that he would not support this as he thinks more information would be forthcoming.
Mr. Lukes stated this would be giving the Town Manager the authorization to accept it, not actually accepting the land.
Chairman Renzoni called for a vote.
Sel. Kurtz stated that he understood where Chairman Renzoni was coming from but they would not be televised at the meeting before Town Meeting and he thought it was important to have this televised. He stated that there could be some information that would sway them but it is his opinion that with all the work that has gone into this, to no approve it now and put it off to right before Town Meeting would not bode well citizens.
Chairman Renzoni stated that he did not feel he had all the information he needed to take the vote.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was VOTED TO NOT SUPPORT WARRANT ARTICLE 28 OF THE 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETIN BY A VOTE OF 2-3 (Kurtz: yes; Ethier: yes; Scheinfeldt: no; Herlihy: no; Renzoni: no).
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLES 30, 31, AND 32.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Ethier, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLE 33.
Chairman Renzoni recommended not taking positions on Warrant Articles 34 and 35. He stated that the Board usually does not take a position on Citizen Petitions unless necessary and he has an opinion about Article 35 and would like to look further into it.
The Board agreed.
The Board discussed Warrant Article 13; General Stabilization Fund.
Sel. Kurtz stated that he would support the $500,000 for the Stabilization Fund. He stated that it was outside the schools and the Town needed to continue to do its housekeeping. He stated that the Town was in a good position to put money into it and that not adding money into it would be detrimental. He stated he recommended supporting this and discussing the School Budget separately.
Sel. Herlihy agreed and stated that she thinks that money into the Stabilization Fund helps the bond ratings. She stated that looking at the entire budget is very important and that it is important to save for the future.
Sel. Ethier stated that his point was not to connect the School Budget with the Stabilization Fund. He stated that the Town could add the $500,000 but he also hopes that the Board supports the School Budget.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, second by Sel. Herlihy, it was VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLE 13, AS PRESENTED FOR $500,000 BY A VOTE OF 4-1 (Ethier: no).
Motion by Sel. Ethier, seconded by Sel. Kurtz, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLE 7.
The Board discussed Warrant Article 8; Education Voluntary.
Sel. Ethier asked if the motion was for the School Committees number or for Fin Com’s number.
Mr. Lukes replied it was for the Fin Com’s recommendation; $5,490,326. He stated the Board should vote on that and if it fails then the Board could move to an alternate motion.
Chairman Renzoni asked Mr. White to clarify the number.
Mr. White replied it was $5,490,326
Sel. Kurtz stated that he had always been a supporter of education. He stated the numbers this year were staggering and he knows that they came back as revised but it is still higher than the proposed number from Fin Com. He stated this was a tough bill to swallow with 54 new students and about $300,000 increases to the payment. He stated that he made a motion to support this for discussion but recommends to his colleagues that they vote this down.
Chairman Renzoni stated that if you make a motion you have to support it otherwise it is bad practice.
Sel. Herlihy stated that she thinks that this is a belt tightening year with a 9% increase and Mountview coming online. She stated that she had watched the whole budget season and cuts on the municipal side and that she supported Fin Com.
Sel. Scheinfeldt stated that he thinks that they are putting the cart before the horse. He stated that he believes the Board needs to vote on School Committee numbers. He stated he was looking at the Department of Education Regulation regarding the School Budget and he believes this is a School Committee procedure. Sel. Scheinfeldt quoted from the Dept of Education website.
Sel. Ethier stated that he was opposed to the motion. He stated to Sel. Scheinfeldt’s point he feels that it is illegal and that he thinks the Board has a moral obligation to let the School Committee present to Town Meeting. He stated that as far as rationale behind the budget, most increase because things like insurance, maintenance and other things rise. He stated that numbers change dramatically year over year. He stated that if they vote to cut the budget there is no impact on the numbers just on the kids by cutting a tight budget. He stated they deserve better. He stated that Ken Mills, School Committee was there and presented his rationale. He stated the School Budget was up 4.6%, which was inor increase. Sel. Ethier stated that if the Board votes with Fin Com, the other towns will see that and not support the budget. He stated the budget put forward will not be the budget but the Town has an obligation to support the schools. He stated the schools help the property value and they are why people move to town, he stated that by the Board cutting the budget, it is costing money in the long run. Sel. Ethier stated that they should not support the Fin Com number, he supports the School Committee recommendation.
Chairman Renzoni stated that he disagrees with Sel. Scheinfeldt that this was illegal. He stated that the local authority is Fin Com and Fin Com has the authority to assess the Towns finances. He stated that the Board has Town Counsel’s opinion and it is fine if he (Scheinfeldt) disagrees with it but the Town pays them a lot of money and the question was asked.
Sel. Scheinfeldt stated that he understands that they had spoken with Town Counsel but he has not seen that opinion and it contradicts the regulation. He stated he does not know what authority Town Counsel is sighting and he believes this violates that recommendation. He stated that he also disagrees with Chairman Renzoni that whoever makes the motion has to support it, he stated that Sel. Kurtz is entitled to change his vote if he wants to.
Chairman Renzoni stated that Robbins Rules were not adopted so Sel. Scheinfeldt was right, he could.
Sel. Scheinfeldt stated that he understood the Boards point about increased taxes and he doesn’t disagree. He stated that his issue is that he thinks that they have the obligation to let School Committee bring their number to Town Meeting.
Sel. Kurtz asked if the difference of $500,000 was a 3% increase to the tax bill.
Chairman Renzoni replied it was roughly.
Sel. Kurtz stated the difference was about $500,000 and that was why they were saying 3% increase to the tax bill. He asked the overall the impact to a homeowner in town.
Chairman Renzoni replied it was $256 but with the full assessed value it would be $306.
Sel. Kurtz asked if the Board supported the Article, could the School Committee make a recommendation to change it on Town Meeting Floor.
Chairman Renzoni stated that the School Budget is not amendable on Town Meeting Floor.
Mr. Lukes replied that the Warrant Article was worded as not an exact; “Sum of money not to exceed…”
Sel. Kurtz stated that in the past there has been a motion made and changed on the floor.
Chairman Renzoni stated that it was his understanding that the School Budget was not amendable on Town Meeting Floor.
Mr. Challenger stated that as he understands it the original proposal would have to be voted down and if it was defeated then something else could be presented but the original proposal would first need to be defeated for that to happen.
Mr. White stated that it was Fin Com’s motion on Town Meeting Floor; Fin Com’s Article, so the Board could take a position but not amend it.
Chairman Renzoni stated he did not disagree but the question on the floor was does the Board support the Article.
Sel. Kurtz stated that his recommendation was to support the Fin Com number.
Chairman Renzoni stated that the motion on the floor was to support Fin Com’s recommendation: $5,490,326
Sel. Scheinfeldt stated that the local approving authority was Town Meeting; just to be clear.
Chairman Renzoni stated that Town Counsel had weighed in.
Mr. Lukes stated that he had been writing Warrant Articles with Town Counsel and it was clear that this was how it was done.
Motion by Sel. Kurtz, seconded by Sel. Herlihy, it was VOTED TO SUPPORT 2017 ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT ARTICLE 8 BY A VOTE OF 3-2. (Scheinfeldt: no; Ethier: no)
- Annual Town Meeting Motion Assignments
Chairman Renzoni suggested having whomever was the new Selectmen be assigned Warrant Article 2-5.
Sel. Kurtz was assigned Warrant Article 6.1-6.9.
Chairman Renzoni was assigned Warrant Article 7 & 8.
Sel. Herlihy was assigned Warrant Article 9-13.
New Selectboard members was assigned Warrant Article 14 and 15.
Chairman Renzoni was assigned Warrant Articles 17, 18, and 19.
New Selectmen was assigned Warrant Article 24.
Chairman Renzoni was assigned Warrant Article 25.
Sel. Kurtz was assigned Warrant Article 26.
Sel. Herlihy was assigned Warrant Article 28.
Sel. Ethier was assigned Warrant Article 33.
Chairman Renzoni was assigned Warrant Article 30 and 32.
Sel. Ethier was assigned Warrant Article 31.
Chairman Renzoni stated that no one would be assigned Warrant Article 34 and 35 but the Board would take a position on them at the Board Meeting prior to Town Meeting.
Chairman Renzoni asked if anyone had any objections to the Warrant Article Assignments; no member of the Board did.
Motion by Sel. Scheinfeldt, seconded by Sel. Herlihy, it was UNANIMOUSLY VOTED TO ADJOURN THE MAY 1, 2017 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING AT 9:50PM.
APPROVED: ______July 17, 2017 as amended______