Minutes of Meeting
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
December 20, 2004
Meeting called to order at 7:05 pm
Board of Selectmen present: Thomas Lively, Brian DeVriese, Sheila Litchfield
Others Present: Joy Fynmore, Henry Leuchtman
Tax Rate Hearing
Tom opened a public hearing at 7:05 to discuss whether to adopt a single tax rate as part of the tax rate setting process. Henry Leuchtman, member of the Board of Assessors presented a breakdown of percentages of properties in the different classes. Questions relating to lowering or raising tax rate if town were to adopt a commercial rate. Details provided by Henry Leuchtman. Brian made motion to adapt a single tax rate. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Hearing closed at 7:30
Three Town
Landfill
Reviewed the three proposals for capping of the Landfill. Board to meet with Charlemont and Hawley for the purpose of selecting contractor on 12/21/04.
Reviewed Memo from Town Accountant. Brian made motion to revert back to a weekly vendor warrant. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Documents to be Signed: Signed documents.
Brian made motion to adjourn at 8:05. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Minutes of Meeting
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
December 14, 2004
Meeting called to order at 7:05 p.m.
Board of Selectmen present: Thomas Lively, Brian DeVriese, Sheila Litchfield,
Others Present: Dave Howland, Ned Wolf, Dave Cote, Budge Litchfield, Dan Richter, Mike Chrisman
The Finance Committee agreed to use the reserve account to cover the following expenditures, with the understanding that articles be put on the next Town meeting warrant to resupply the reserve account. The expenditures are: Town Coordinator computer, survey for the donated land adjacent to the Heath Center Cemetery and Selectmens Expense – overdrawn primarily due to the amount of advertising needed.
Fire truck bids from 12/06/04 were reviewed with the Finance Committee. The high bid for Engine 1 was $1,565 and the high bid for Engine 3 was $945. The Board expressed disappointment with what was received and possibly putting them out to bid for a third time.
Mike Smith has recommended hiring Stephen Bigelow at $10.50 an hour for winter relief driver. Board also suggested that Dave Vanderpoel be used for this purpose. Brian made motion to hire Stephen Bigelow. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Daniel Richter requested that the Board post a speed limit on Avery Brook road. Board of Selectmen to take under advisement and will discuss at future meeting.
Finance Committee left the meeting to return later after reviewing issues:
7:55 pm Interview Diane Cote
8:10 pm Interview Eileen Tougas
8:22 pm Interview Julie Page
8:38 pm Interview Alice Wozniak
Sheila to update Personnel Policy and Job Classification send final to Tom and Brian for review.
Tom and Brian to submit their numbers for input into Job Classification tally sheet
Finance Committee
Continued
Finance Committee returned to meeting with the following recommendations:
Finance Committee reviewed past history of Estimated Receipts and recommended using $127,000 as the figure for FY05.
Board of Selectmen will meet with School Committee and the Finance Committee in January regarding Mohawk Budget FY06.
Finance Committee agreed to accept fire truck bids that were received. Brian made motion to accept fire truck bids from Malcolm Thompson in the amount of $1,565 on the 1974 International and Allen MacDonald in the amount of $945 on the 1961 International. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
The Town received a check for $10,874 from additional lottery money. Finance committee recommended using these funds to cover expenses previously discussed. Select board to review with the Town Accountant the process that would need to be followed.
Reviewed revisions to Post Office Contract. Brian made motion to approve contract as revised. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Next meeting scheduled for January 4, 2005.
Ray Pettengill has received Sr. Center Building project documents, warranties and the Certificate of Occupancy.
Reviewed Mail
Reviewed Minutes of 12/06/04 BOS Meeting. Brian made motion to accept minutes as read. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Brian made motion to adjourn at 10:45. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Minutes of Meeting
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
December 6, 2004
Meeting called to order at 6:05 p.m.
Board of Selectmen present: Thomas Lively, Sheila Litchfield
Opened Fire Truck Bids:
Bid for engine: #1 - $1,565.00
#3 - $ 375.00
Bid for engine: #1 - $ 555.00
#3 - $ 945.00
Signed documents to be signed.
Reviewed mail
Tom made motion to adjourn meeting Sheila seconded. Motion carried. Unanimous.
Meeting Adjourned at 6:35.
Town of Heath
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Minutes of
November 30, 2004
At Sawyer Hall
Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm
Board of Selectmen present: Tom Lively, Brian DeVriese, Sheila Litchfield
Others present: Joy Fynmore, Richard Dils, Bruce Hunter, Dave Vanderpoel, Linda Marcotte, Mike Chrisman
Reviewed Agenda and revised to include Richard Dils,
Personnel Policies and Job Classifications, Expense Report Differences, Winter
Highway Relief Staff, Relocation of Plaques in Town Hall Office
Richard Dils presented a chapter 61 real estate transaction between Esther and Eric Danielson, sellers and Judith Smith, potential purchaser of the property located on West Branch Road. After review and discussion Brian made motion to waive Towns right of first refusal. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
Bruce Hunter reviewed Community Hall Project Close Out. Town to receive Certificate of Final Completion, Waivers of Lien, as-built plans, project manuals and warranties. Town will receive a balance $15,471.74 from this project. There are no restrictions on the use of these funds.
Bruce discussed changes to the State rules for Housing Rehabilitation. Specifically noting that the State appears to be targeting neighborhoods and larger communities. This will most likely prevent rural communities from qualifying for future funds.
Ray Pettengill reviewed Senior Center Coordinator’s job description with the Board to determine areas of responsibility. Revisions to job description include the Administrator of COA Grant and Senior Luncheon Program Coordinator as being assigned to Val Kaempfer. Ray has requested that a line item be set up for supplies and expenses for the Senior Center. Ray is working on establishing a calendar of events and a newsletter for the Senior Center.
Dave Vanderpoel addressed issues of work to be completed and the amount of time required to complete it. Dave to provide the Board with a list of projects and the number of hours required to clean the Senior Center. Once the Board receives this information a review of the Custodian’s job description will take place. Requested use of plywood sign to act as snow drift barrier on the porch of Sawyer Hall. Dave will paint the sign before installing. Board approved use of the sign.
Bob Viarengo presented the Board with a draft letter and financial justification for a Post Office Contract Increase. Board to review and follow up with Bob.
Discussed ways of keeping the Board informed of primary projects on a daily basis. No decision reached.
Computer specifications reviewed and approved will order through Staples. Hewlett-Packard PC to have the hard drive cleaned and reformatted then given to Ray Pettengill for use at the Senior Center.
Old Business:
§ Accountant Hired - Tracey Baronas has accepted the accountant’s position. Her start date is December 2, 2004. Brian made motion to hire Tracey as Town Account. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
§ Temporary Tax Collector – Brian made motion to appoint Linda Marcotte as Temporary Tax Collector at the same rate of pay as Betty Nichols. This is a temporary appointment while Betty is on medical leave. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
§ Assistant Tax Collector – Interviews to be conducted at the 12/14/04 Board of Selectmen meeting.
§ Conservation Commission Appointment – Dawn Peters requested that the Board appoint Elizabeth Finn to Conservation Commission. Brian made motion to appoint Elizabeth to the Conservation Commission. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
§ Fire Trucks Disposal - Brian made motion to set meeting for 12/06/04 at 6 pm for the purpose of opening bids. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
§ Personnel Policy & Job Classification - Brian made motion to set meeting of 12/7/2004 to work on this project. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
§ Winter Highway Relief Staff – Discussed proposal submitted by Mike. Questions arose concerning qualifications - Brian to follow-up with Mike Smith before final approval is given.
New Business:
§ MRF Mini Grant – Joy to e-mail list of office supplies to Jan Ameen at Franklin County Solid Waste District.
§ Use of Prisoner Program – Board discussed using this program for various projects such as relocating books from Police Department and from Town Offices into storage. Joy to provide letter to Ray Pettengill for possible projects at the Senior Center.
§ MEMA Contact Information - Board reviewed and agreed on the information being submitted.
§
Expense Report Differences - It appears the wrong information was
used to create the budget Expense report. Tom has discussed these differences
with the Accountant and corrections will be made to the report.
Other Business:
§ Received and reviewed the Police Department Inventory report. The police chief prepared a very thorough report that will be filed in Town Hall Office.
Mail Reviewed
Documents to be signed. Documents signed.
Review and sign Warrant(s) Warrants Signed
Review Minutes of previous meetings: Reviewed minutes of 11/03/04. Brian made motion to approve minutes. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Brian made motion to adjourn at 11:14 pm. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Joy Fynmore, Town Coordinator
Minutes of Meeting
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
November 19, 2004
Meeting called to order at 6:05
Board of Selectmen Present: Tom Lively, Sheila Litchfield
Reviewed agreement between Yankee and the Towns of Heath, Charlemont, Hawley. Sheila motioned to approve and sign document, Tom Seconded. Discussion. Motion passed unanimous. Agreement was signed.
Sheila made motion to adjourn meeting, Tom seconded. Motion passed unanimous.
Meeting adjourned at 6:10 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
Tom Lively
Minutes of Meeting
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Town Hall
November 16, 2004
Meeting called to order at 7:01
Board of Selectmen present: Thomas Lively, Brian DeVriese, Sheila Litchfield
Others present: Joy Fynmore, Mike Chrisman, Alastair Maitland, Calvin Carr, Hazel Porter,
Margaret Freeman
Reviewed Agenda: Modified to include Highway Department
Reviewed the need for an Assistant Tax Collector. Tax Collector currently works approximately eight hours a week - Assistant would fill in as needed. Notice to be placed in West County News. The Board to contact the COG for assistance with this search.
Board of Health – Appointment Tabled
Margaret Sullivan requested documentation of Board of Selectmen’s meeting minutes showing the Board voted for her to negotiate on their behalf. Tom forwarded the minutes of the 10/05/04 meeting.
Tom spoke with J. Boudreau regarding this account. Joe felt that the dollar amount allocated for this purpose would not be a problem. Should have a line item within the budget. Joy and Margo to work out the details of handling this type of account and report back to the board.
Board reviewed and signed documents.
Sheila to follow up on minutes of 11/9/04.
Yankee Agreement:
Tom will discuss with Town Counsel the payment options and see if the invoicing for the engineering service could go directly to Yankee and the removal of “3TL” from #3 & #4 on page two.
Discussed interviews held on 11/9/04. Offer was not accepted. Decided to re-advertise. Ad will be placed in the North Adams Transcript, Greenfield Recorder and West County News. Sheila to contact Jean Gran regarding position and Tom will speak with the accounting firm Melanson (SP) and Heath.
Reviewed need to replace Town Coordinator’s computer. Finance Committee approved use of reserve fund for purchase. BOS will add item on to the next Special Town Meeting warrant to reimburse from Free Cash.
Finance committee discussed school budget and school equipment needs and the concern over another large increase in the school budget. Suggested we support a 2.5% ceiling increase in the school budget. No action taken. Additional suggestion made – letter to be sent to all vendors requesting timely mailing of invoices prior to end of FY.
Sheila reviewed site evaluation and said that the committee is looking for community feed back on location. Several residents would like to see it located in town center. The Planning and Design Grant is due February 9, 2005. Will need a Special Town Meeting before submitting grant. The Finance Committee will be requesting additional information.
Finance committee left at this time.
Remaining agenda items tabled.
Brian made motion to adjourn meeting. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned 9:40.
Minutes of Meeting
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
November 9, 2004
Meeting called to order at 7:02 PM
Board of Selectmen Present: Thomas Lively, Brian DeVriese, Sheila Litchfield
Others Present: Joy Fynmore, Hilma Sumner, Dave Howland, Mike Chrisman
Reviewed agenda. Modified to include winter highway driver and Police Chief Salary
Dale Kowacki attended at the request of the Board to review possible ways of handling Postage account for Town Offices. Requires further discussion. Tom will call J. Boudreau. Dale left the meeting.
Hilma Sumner requested a stop sign be placed at Main Street and South Road. Brian made motion to have a stop sign installed at Main Street and South Road. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Tom reviewed responses to questions from residents. The Board felt that several questions remained unanswered and that these items need to be written in the contract. Tom to consult with Town’s attorneys (Kopelman and Paige; Alan Seawald) regarding these issues.
Interviewed candidate: Tracey Baronas
Interviewed candidate: Stephen Ryack
Brian made motion to offer Accountant position to Tracey Baronas contingent on positive responses from references. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion Carried.
1. Bruce Hunter questioned the height of the new counter. After discussion it was
decided it was acceptable as is.
2. Emergency Management Services expenses. Sheila to forward copy of form to Office
for further discussion.
3. Town Coordinator’s Computer. Discussed the need to replace computer. Reviewed
specifications. Joy to put together a spec sheet and review prices at additional outlets.
Board to request Finance Committee to fund purchase from Reserve fund. BOS to
recommend transfer from Free Cash to the Reserve Fund – the cost of computer – at
a Special Town Meeting.
4. Additional phone line for Internet use will go in budget for next year.
5. The one remaining workstation will be delivered this week. The technical school will
install the light fixture in the basement next week.
Reviewed Memos to Employees regarding Job Classification System and Computer Survey. Both memos were approved and will be distributed to all employees and Department heads this week.
Mike will be contacting Joy with information on advertisement for hiring of backup drivers.
BOS completed three month review of Town Coordinator.
Brian made motion to apply $200 of the Council on Aging Grant towards a stipend for Senior Center Coordinator. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Council on Aging Grant required signature, BOS signed.
Reviewed Police Chief Salary and qualifications met by Margo. Brian made motion to set the hourly rate at $13.18 per hour. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion Carried.
Reviewed Mail
Documents To Be Signed: Reviewed ABC (Liquor) License Renewal Application for 2005, the Plantes.
Reviewed and Signed Warrant(s)
Reviewed minutes of previous meetings: October 19, 2004 and November 3, 2004 Brian made motion to approve minutes of 10/19/04. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Brian made motion to approve minutes of 11/03/04. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Next meeting set for 11/16/04 for the purpose of continuing work on the job classifications.
Brian made motion to adjourn at 11:25. pm. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Minutes of Meeting
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Heath Fire Station
November 03, 2004
Meeting called to order at 7:38 a.m.
Board of selectmen present: Tom Lively, Brian DeVriese, Sheila Litchfield (arrived at 8:00 a.m.)
Others present: Mike Smith
Reviewed and approved
the agenda
Highway Department:
Mike left the meeting at this point.
Other Business:
§
Town Accountant position has
been advertised and a few applications received. The Board agreed to start by
conducting 2 interviews on Nov. 9.
§
Sheila to attend the Library
Meeting 11/10; Tom and Brian to attend the FC Selectmen’s Assn. Meeting 11/10.
§
Custodian position: In response to an email from Davie
Vanderpoel, the Board determined to meet with him regarding duties, hours and
expectations.
Meeting adjourned at
9:18 a.m.
Minutes of Meeting
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Town Hall
October 26, 2004
Meeting called to order at 7:05
Board of Selectmen present: Tom Lively, Brian DeVriese, Sheila Litchfield
Others present: Joy Fynmore, Brian Glennon II, Jim Cerone, Dawn Peters, Jo Travis, Dave Vanderpoel, Margo Newton
Reviewed Agenda
Brian made the motion to enter into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing strategy with respect to litigation and to return to open session there after. Sheila seconded. Roll call vote: Tom, aye. Brian, aye. Sheila, aye. Unanimous. Executive Session began at 7:08 pm and concluded at 8:45 pm. Regular meeting session resumed after a short break. .
Police Department:
§ Discussed results of Police Department Survey and addressed the areas of greatest concern with Margo.
§ Discussed emergency response and establishing standard communication procedures between Fire and Police.
§ Discussed publishing emergency phone numbers in all issues of Heath Herald.
§ Reviewed areas that State Police would or could be utilized.
§ Reviewed qualifications and any recertification that would be required.
§ Discussed the need for the Chief to attend various Town Meetings. Board will request if attendance is required.
§ Brian made motion to appoint Margo Newton Police Chief. Sheila Brian Seconded- Unanimous. Motion carried.
Dave Vanderpoel:
§ Discussed the need for cleaning schedules for Town Hall and Community Center. Dave to set up schedule and put together a project list.
§ Discussed equipment needs. Board approved purchase of snow shovel and vacuum cleaner for custodial work.
§ Discussed the need for Town Offices to be cleaned for Election Day.
Town Coordinator Update:
Reviewed Community Hall invoice for
electrical work completed. Board
approved payment.
§
Office re-organization reviewed.
Wiring for Assessors Office and installation of storage area light
remain. Waiting delivery of three
computer stations.
§
Copies of Accountant applications given to all Board members for review.
§
Brian made motion to appoint Don Dekker to Conservation Commission. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion
carried.
§
Discussed the need for trees to be trimmed back at South and Burrington
Roads and a yield sign to be installed at the intersection of same.
§ Results of Bulky Waste Day should be available the week of November 15th.
Mail Reviewed:
Brian made motion to post the No.H14009 Bridge as requested in Mass Highway letter. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Documents Signed
Review and sign Warrant(s)
Adjourned 10:40
Minutes of Meeting
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Town Hall
October 14, 2004
Meeting called to order at 7:05
Board of selectmen present: Tom Lively, Brian DeVriese, Sheila Litchfield
Others present: Joy Fynmore, Charlene Churchill, Margo Newton, Eileen Tougas, Melinda Herzig
Reviewed and approved
the agenda
Old Business:
7:30 Police
Department Acting Chief, Margo Newton:
§
Tom Lively reviewed topic of a
phone conversation with Margo.
§
Reviewed the Police Chief
position and the expectations of the person holding the position.
§
Tom Lively will contact Town
Counsel regarding appointment of Police Chief to verify if any special
procedures are required.
§
Tom stated he doesn’t feel a
need to advertise the position in that we have a good candidate in Margo.
§
Clarified that Margo Newton did
not submit her resignation but had concerns that should be addressed related to
the Board not having made an appointment to the Chief position by September 30,
2004.
§
The Board addressed the issue of
no appointing Police Chief as of September 30th, 2004, and spoke to
the interest in obtaining citizen opinions (through survey) into priorities for
PD services.
§
The Board addressed the
importance of good communication between Police Chief and the Selectmen,
establishing and clarifying priorities, and authority of acting Chief.
§
Reviewed contents of draft
Police Survey made changes where needed.
Survey will be in library and cabinet outside post office until Oct 23.
§
Board discussed holding a
meeting with Police Chief, Fire Chief and EMS personnel for the purpose of
discussing emergency response and communications.
§
Selectmen will meet on October
26, 2004 for the purpose of discussing results of Police Survey and
consideration to the appointment of a Chief.
At this time Margo Newton, Eileen Tougas and Melinda Herzig left the meeting.
Job Classification System
§
The Selectboard reviewed the
proposed job classification system and began the process of applying the
information to job descriptions. It was
recognized that significant time would be required to complete this process, so
the Board agreed to hold special meetings on the alternating weeks until the
process is complete. It was also
recognized that a letter should be sent to town employees to inform them of
this process and to reassure that the job descriptions are being reviewed for
purposes of classification and establishment of appropriate salary range; that
employees are not being reviewed. – Tom to draft. Charlene left the meeting after this
discussion.
§
The Board agreed to publish the
ad for the Town Accountant position.
The revised proposal from the COG offers a salary about $5,000 over what
Heath has budgeted for the position.
The Board desires the Accountant to work on a weekly basis in
Heath. Tom to revise draft employment
ad to reflect this. It was agreed to
place the ad in the Greenfield Recorder and West County News.
§
The status of substandard gravel
was discussed. On October 13, 2004 Jim
Toth and Margaret Sullivan from the COG inspected the gravel and roads it had
been placed on, accompanied by a representative of Zoar Gravel and Mike
Smith. The Board believes the placed
gravel needs to be removed but wants to see the report from Jim Toth FRCOG
Engineer before finalizing a decision.
The roads impacted are Swamp Road and Town Farm Road.
Meeting adjourned at
9:50
Respectfully
submitted,
Joy Fynmore, Town
Coordinator
Minutes of Meeting
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Town Hall
October 5, 2004
Board of selectmen present: Tom Lively, Sheila Litchfield
Others present: Joy Fynmore, Alastair Maitland, Cal and Jan Carr, Mike Chrisman, Val and Charles Kaempfer, Kris Nartowicz.
Meeting called to order at 7:05
Reviewed and
agenda.
Met with Kris Nartowicz review hourly salary rate for the assistant treasurers’ position. No decision was reached, tabled for future meeting.
Board met with Mike Smith regarding Highway and Fire Department matters.
§ Reviewed alternative uses of Chapter 90 funds. Intention to set aside 20% for salt shed and or roof repair at Highway Department. Mike to call Mass Highway to confirm if these uses fall within the Chapter 90 regulations.
§ Results of gravel test by Allied Testing Lab were reviewed. Test failed. Results to be sent with invoice to Margaret Sullivan along with a letter requesting the FRCOG to negotiate on behalf of town. Mike to estimate time necessary to remove poor gravel from roads. Sheila made motion to sign letter to Margaret Sullivan. Tom Lively seconded. Motion carried.
§ New fire truck to arrive in the month of November, 2004
§ Discussed putting out to bids for both Fire Trucks. Mike to arrange. Tom to investigate posting on E-Bay
§ Mike to check with Jan Ameen regarding staffing needs for Bulky Waste Day Oct 23. Agreed to pay hourly rate same as last year.
Val and Charles Keampfer joined the meeting at 7:20 for purpose of clarification of questions Bud had as result of letter from BOS regarding transfer station issues. BOS asked Charles if he wanted to go into Executive Session. He Declined.
§ Number of days before compacter box is called in is a goal which we realize cannot always be attained. The important fact is the need for the compactor to be full before being called in.
§ C. Keampfer voiced concerns relating to items coming in after hours. The Board instructed him to make Mike Smith aware when this happens so that a history of this can be determined.
§ C. Keampfer requested signs for cardboard disposal and another sign that would list charges for large items. BOS instructed Mike and Bud to determine wording of signs and to have them made and installed. Joy to provide Mike with fee schedule for larger items to be printed on the signs.
Val and Charles Keampfer left the meeting.
Old Business:
§ Yankee is reviewing draft of Three Town Landfill Agreement. Discussed the key points of the agreement. Need clarification of material that would be trucked through Heath. Questions arose around the use of the Vermont route that would require Yankee to use the Heath roads. The board is not aware of any issues and the proposal is specific the use of the Heath route as a backup plan. Alastair Maitland, Cal and Jan Carr left the meeting following this item.
§ Electrical work at Community Hall to be done by J. Ferguson before November 7, 2004. Joy to follow up with Mr. Ferguson.
§ Appointments to Heath Agricultural Commission are David Freeman, Leighton McCutchen, Tim Lively, Susan Schriber, Peter Schriber and Bonnie Woden. Sheila made motion to accept appointees. Tom seconded. Unanimous.
§ Select Board meeting will be held on October 14, 2004 for the review of Job Classification System.
§ Post Office Contract tabled for further review.
§ Board of Selectmen to conduct a survey of what services the towns’ people want from the Police Department. Results to be factored into how we prioritize activities and time available for the department.
New Business:
§ Town Accountant is leaving as of December 31, 2004. Board is waiting for additional information on possibly contracting with the COG for this service.
Town Coordinator Update:
§
Baker Office to start delivery of furniture week of 10/11. Re-organization to be completed week of
10/18.
§
Justin Lively will install counter in town office by Friday.
§
Reviewed J. Ferguson proposal to rewire and bring existing lights at
Community Hall up to code. Sheila made
motion to accept proposal with the inclusion of trying to use the existing
light fixtures if at all possible. New
fixtures would need approval of the board.
Tom seconded. Unanimous.
§
Whenever Special Town Meeting Warrants are posted, a copy must be sent
to Moderator at time of posting.
Moderators request for a change in quorum requires additional
consideration.
Mail Reviewed
Review and sign Warrant(s)
Review and approved minutes of previous meetings: Aug. 2, Sept. 7, & Sept 21, 2004
Adjourned at 10:59
Respectfully submitted,
Joy Fynmore, Town Coordinator
Minutes of Meeting
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Town Hall
September 21, 2004
Board of selectmen present: Tom Lively, Brian DeVriese, Sheila Litchfield
Others present: Joy Fynmore, Bob Viarengo, Dave Howland, Mike Chrisman
Meeting called to order at 7:00
Reviewed agenda. Modified to include status of Heath Open
Space and Recreation Plan
Board met with Treasurer, Kris Nartowicz; signed loan to borrow $52,179 over three years for second renewal of ’02 dump body-sander truck. Discussed appointment of Assistant Treasurer. Brian made motion to appoint Elizabeth Nichols as Assistant treasurer. Sheila seconded. Vote unanimous.
Board met with Margo Newton to discuss procedure for handling of postage charges for all departments to ensure that payments are made at the time of purchasing postage. Margo will provide a list of postage expenses to each department. Brian made motion to establish Draw Down accounts for this purpose. Sheila seconded. Vote unanimous.
Bob Viarengo reported on Post Office Contract Renewal. Operating expenses for ’03 and ’04 to be revisited. Contract renewal due October, but unscheduled, reapply only if needed. Should create a cost for rent and capital improvements. Bob will assist with cover letter to accompany the contract renewal.
Dave Howland presented new Salary Evaluations system to Board that rates each job description in a transparent and equitable way. Board to review all current jobs in light of the suggested evaluation system.
§ Finance Committee postponed discussion regarding budget planning to accommodate any salary structure changes until the salary review system is complete.
§ Technical School budget reduction of $6,420 put on recap.
§ State supplemental Aid to Heath of $10,874 will go into free cash, however, the town has not received a letter regarding this aid as of yet.
§ Finance Committee in agreement with the Board of Selectmen to allocate 60% of Chapter 90 funds on roads, 20% towards truck purchase and 20% to go for other projects. Brian moved to accept allocation. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
Tom to draft letter to Governor regarding FY05 Pothole application as being geared to cities.
Reviewed waiver request to exceed the maximum amounts for housing rehab projects in the 2003 Heath Six Town grant. Brian moved to approve waiver request #1. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Brian moved to approve waiver request #2. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
§ Office records to be stored in Sawyer Hall Basement.
§ Board authorized purchase of dehumidifier for archives storage space.
§ Brian locating shelving.
§ Tom to contact D.Vanderpoel on shelf installation in basement as well as reworking wall shelves in town offices.
§ Bill Kerivan from the Technical School came today with students to check electrical requirements for phone, computer and fax relocations.
§ May need server for computers. Tom to get computer group together to determine most effective computer connections for town offices workstations.
§ Exhaust motor on Sawyer Hall furnace not working. Sub contractor on project to be called in to replace motor.
§ Lantern decoration on steeple at Community Hall to be installed by D. Vanderpoel and Justin Lively.
§ No new information on Three Town Landfill capping at this time.
§ Joy to contact J. Ferguson and request that the existing lighting at Community Hall be brought up to code without purchasing new fixtures, if possible.
§ Appointment to Agricultural Commission tabled at this time.
§ Computer Committee consists of Tom Lively, Joy Fynmore and Cabe DeLisle. Brian moved to appoint Joy. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
§ The Heath Open Space and Recreation Plan has been printed and distributed; additional copies available in the library.
§ Dale Kowacki, our accountant has given notice that he will no longer be providing these services to towns. Need to initiate search for accounting services.
§ Poor Gravel situation discussed with Town Counsel. Selectmen to have Mike Smith approach gravel company and request they remove poor gravel and deliver what was ordered. Brian made motion to approve this action. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
§ Board approved purchase of tamper for Highway Department. $1,800 from machine maintenance account.
§ Board recognized that money received from recycling credits can be used for anything the town wants, such as counter in town offices.
§ Awarded the bid on the Montero to Jeff Simmons.
Mail Review.
MMAC Brian nominated Tom Lively as representative. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
Review and sign Warrant
Minutes of previous meeting were not available for review.
The meeting adjourned at 11:22 P.M.
Minutes of Meeting
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
SEPTEMBER 7, 2004
Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m.
Board of Selectmen present: Brian DeVriese, Sheila Litchfield, Thomas Lively (joined
meeting at 8 P.M.)
Others present: Joy Fynmore, Mike Chrisman, Val Kaempfer, Eileen Tougas, Margo
Newton, Laura Gowdy, Melinda Herzig, Andrew Mercier
Reviewed Agenda:
Old Business:
Discussed electrical repair upstairs at Community Center with Val Kaempfer. Old fixtures need reconnecting, but are not to code. Need more information from Sommers Electric. Will consider getting bid from Sommers or Jerry Ferguson.
Dedication of service plaque in memory of Lorin Gowdy. Plaque read and passed to all present. All agreed that plaque should be hung in Town Hall 2nd floor. At this point Val Kaempfer, Eileen Tougas, Margo Newton, Laura Gowdy, Melinda Herzig and Andrew Mercier left the meeting.
Received note from Tammy at Charlemont Post Office regarding renewal of bulk mail permit. Joy to identify the account this was paid from in the past. BOS are interested in sharing this bill with the Heath Herald or Agricultural Society or other town related organizations that use it. Continued follow-up needed to resolve this item.
Joy’s computer now has Norton antivirus protection, RAM space has been corrected. It was suggested to check printer tension to adjust for paper flow problems.
Surplus frame from Community Hall Lantern-Sheila spoke with Bob DeLisle, need response to determine interest of Agricultural Society in this item.
One bid received on Montero and no bids received for fire truck. BOS to confer with Mike Smith on both of these. Discussed putting fire truck out for bid again and the possibility of auctioning it on E-Bay.
Discussed status of the revised salary structure, will be reviewed at the 9/21/04 BOS meeting when Dave Howland will give a report on the system he is developing for BOS consideration.
Office reorganization is waiting for contact from Bill Kerivan from the Technical School. Memo will be sent to all employees requesting they sort, box and label all records and
items that will be going into storage. Brian DeVriese suggested looking into bulk storage. Joy to contact Iron Mt. for information and rates.
Mike smith to be asked to replace hidden drive sign on the D. Kratz property and sharp curve sign request from A.Canali house.
Discussed appointing Joy as County Waste District Representative. Sheila made motion to approve appointment. Brian seconded. Vote was unanimous.
Regional Transit Authority Representative vacancy discussed. Ray Pettengill to see if there is a possibility of Senior Center member taking this on, as the transportation provided in Heath is for senior use.
New Business:
Bulky Items and Hazardous Waste Dates. Hazardous Waste Day is October 2nd (at Charlemont FD). Mike Chrisman to post need for volunteer in West County News. Bulky Item Day is October 23rd at Heath Transfer Station. Need volunteer from 9-1. Brian to follow up with Mike Smith about highway department assistance for October 23rd date.
Community Hall Items:
§ Justin Lively making decorative lantern for steeple as it is not part of the grant but there should be left over funds in grant to pay for the building and installing of the lantern. Estimated cost for materials is $500-$600.
§ Roof drains are to be installed and tied into an existing culvert that runs parallel to the building.
§ Paving and parking lot(s); Ray to coordinate with Bruce Hunter. Parking lot paving to be done with road paving.
§ Out of code lighting discussed the options and who we might contact to finish this project, Brian to contact Bruce Hunter about the situation.
§ Sheila will call Diane Cerone regarding whether the COOP needs to place the refrigerator upstairs in the Community Hall until the downstairs space is available for use other than seniors only.
LEPC item: Tim Lively, Emergency Management Director was notified by the FRCOG that MEMA wants a list of costs associated with time spent toward emergency management issues. Tim is following up this short track item.
Mail Reviewed
Reviewed and Signed Warrant
Reviewed and approved minutes of August 9, 2004 and August 23, 2004.
Adjourned at 10:30
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Heath Elementary School
August 23, 2004
Board of Selectmen present: Tom Lively, Sheila Litchfield
Others present: Joy Fynmore, Heath Town Coordinator, Ray Pettengill, Doug Wilkins, and Town Moderator.
Meeting called to order at 7:56 pm following a Special Town Meeting.
Reviewed and approved agenda.
Ray Pettengill reported on status of Community Hall renovations. Sheila made a motion for the Board to appoint Ray Pettengill as Board liaison to the Senior Center renovation project. Tom seconded motion carried, vote was unanimous. Ray then left the meeting.
Town Moderator business:
Old Business:
Sheila provided a brief overview of the salary structure work Dave Howland has been doing on behalf of the town. The Board should have a presentation on this subject at the September 21 meeting.
Status of office reorganization: Joy has selected a workstation; Sheila made a motion to approve the bid from Baker office supply for purchase and assembly of employee workstations for $1666.15. Tom seconded; vote was unanimous.
The Board discussed and declined Gregg Rodes request for class 2 license in light of Town Counsel advice; Tom to assist Joy draft a letter to Mr. Rodes.
The Board discussed and determined that the appointment of Bud Kaempher to Transfer Station Attendant was with reservations and that Tom would draft a letter stating what those reservations were and clarifying the expectations for the job.
The commemorative service plaque in memory of Lorin Gowdy will be dedicated at 7:00 at the September 7, 2004 Board meeting in Sawyer Hall. Joy will send letters to Margo and Lorin’s family.
Road signs are requested at Dennis Kratz’s property (hidden drive) and Al Canali (sharp curve ahead); Sheila made a motion to approve these signs, Tom seconded; vote was unanimous. Sheila to follow-up with Mike.
Tom reported on his conversation with Kopelman and Page regarding BOH actions to enforce town bylaws in Mohawk Estates. K&P indicated it was not unusual for a town to launch into enforcement after a period of non-enforcement, and advised the Board to ensure that the regulation had been properly enacted. K&P is willing to meeting with the BOH. Tom to follow-up with the BOH.
New Business:
Henry Leuchtman has also looked at Joy’s computer and it may now work a bit better. May still need a new computer to support upgrade to MS Office XP.
There will be a Three-Town Landfill meeting at 7 at Mohawk Park on Wednesday Sept 1.
Mail Overview:
Warrants were signed.
Sheila made motion to adjourn at 10:40 p.m. Tom seconded. Motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Sheila M. Litchfield/Joy Fynmore
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
AUGUST 9, 2004
Board of Selectmen present: Tom Lively, Brian DeVriese, and Sheila Litchfield
Others present: none
Meeting called to order at 7:06 pm. Reviewed agenda. Revised to include: under “New Business” a letter regarding re-cap information from Dave Howland; under “Old Business” to discuss the status of reference checks and hiring of new Town Coordinator; and under “Follow-up items” to add review of interim actions to be taken to ensure business as usual in the absence of a Town Coordinator.
Board met with Greg Rode regarding his application for Class II license (automobile dealer’s license). Greg explained his request is to enable him to expand his appliance repair business in Heath by enabling him to attend auctions to buy used trucks wholesale for the business. He indicated he “goes through” several trucks a year and has a full facility bay to work on the vehicles. He is requesting a Class II license but has no intention of getting a dealer plate, as he is not an auto dealer. Tom to contact Town Counsel with this new information. Discussion continued to Aug 23 rd meeting.
Board conducted an interview of the 5th candidate for the position of Town Coordinator. As the position did not meet this candidates salary requirements, the application was withdrawn.
New Business:
Discussed possible Town use of surplus roof frame from Community Hall renovation. As the Board believes that costs may prohibit the Town to create a proper base under the roof, it was decided to offer it to Agricultural Society for use at the fair grounds. Sheila to follow-up.
Vacancies on County committees due to Becky Jurek. Resignation will likely be filled by new Town Coordinator.
The Board reviewed Dave Howland’s letter regarding new re-cap information. No Board actions required at this time.
Old Business items:
Improvement in transfer station weight slips was noted. Tom agreed to document BOS expectations for Transfer Station attendant.
Board determined not to implement a time sheet for monthly staff at this time.
Board reviewed information from applicant reference checks and discussed at length the strengths the various candidates would bring to the Town. Brian made a motion to offer the position to Joy Fynmore of Deer Run Path, Heath, MA. At a rate of $15.00 per hour. Sheila seconded. Motion carried. Unanimous. Tom to contact Joy to offer position and determine a start date. Transition process and orientation will be arranged.
Review of mail:
The commemorative plaque in recognition of Lorin Gowdy has arrived and will be dedicated at the August 23rd BOS meeting.
Reviewed request from Del Viarengo to appoint Carol Anne Eldridge to Historical Commission. Brian made the motion, Sheila seconded. Motion carried. Unanimous.
Tom to attend Franklin County Selectmen’s Assn. meeting Aug. 19.
Discussed Montero and fire truck invitation to bid. Board concurred September 3rd as bid due date, with ads to appear week of August 16th. Tom to issue bids ads to papers.
Discussed progress with establishing Agricultural Commission. No update from Town Counsel whether to bring the issue to town meeting. Noted that the Commission is appointed by the Board of Selectmen. Board to review material provided by Planning Board for next meeting. Sheila to provide copies of information to Brian and Tom.
FRCOG is requesting completion of a profile for economic development projects. Tom reviewed material. Board determined no applicable projects are currently planned in Heath.
Warrants reviewed and signed.
Brian made motion to accept minutes of July 26, 2004 as revised. Sheila seconded. Motion carried.
Noted that the Board is awaiting appointment list for the Police Department, and Agricultural Commission.
Discussed and determined plan for monitoring mail, email, fax machine and phone messages in the absence of a Town Coordinator.
A reminder that a Special Town Meeting regarding financial transfers is posted for August 23rd at the school.
Brian made motion to adjourn at 11:03 p.m. Sheila seconded. Motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Sheila M. Litchfield
Member, Select Board
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES
Sawyer Hall
JULY 12, 2004
Meeting
called to order at 7:00 p.m.
Board
of Selectmen present: Tom Lively, Brian
DeVriese, and Sheila Litchfield
Others
present: Becky Jurek, Val Kaempfer, Bud
Kaempfer, Eileen Tougas, Jane deLeeuw, Calvin Carr, Janis Carr, Jonathan
Diamond
Reviewed
agenda. Modified to include fuel prices
and repair of steps at Transfer Station.
Board
met with Transfer Station Attendant Charles Kaempfer regarding
reappointment. Board reviewed weight
issue of compactor box with respect to hauling costs. Attendant offered input to compacting. Discussed closing bin and keeping Transfer Station open for
residents to have disposal access of other items. Discussed cardboard container.
Town will be obtaining a new container for the collection of cardboard. Board has asked attendant to monitor bins
closely. Metal bin contents discussed. Non-metal materials being placed in the
metal bin. Visibility in winter months
of the Attendant is important. Resident
inquired to why Transfer Station Supervisor was not in attendance for this
discussion. Select board commented that
the appointment is under their discretion, not the Supervisor's. Brian made motion to postpone the
appointment for 30 days. Sheila
seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Val and Bud left the meeting.
Town
Coordinator presented the remaining list of outstanding FY05 appointments as
tabled from previous meeting. Brian
made motion to appoint as read. Sheila
seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Board noted that the Conservation Commission is in need of
members. Remaining appointments for
FY05 are for Police Department staff.
Board awaiting input from Police Department.
Town
Coordinator Business Items
Request
for Class II license presented. Board
requested Town Coordinator follow up with town counsel regarding issuance and
if the license can be issued for a particular period of time.
Heath
was not awarded a block grant in the FY04 round of funding. Housing Authority staff to follow up.
Personnel
Policy: Brian and Tom submitted
changes. To finalize at next meeting.
Reviewed
mail. Noted email regarding Yankee. Town received a response from DEP concerning
the three-town landfill environmental bond bill. Funding for the landfill is unlikely as projects are prioritized. Continued mail review later in meeting.
Discussed
fuel bids. Tom followed up with town
counsel. Town Coordinator to follow up
with bidder on gasoline bid.
Warrants
reviewed and signed.
Transfer
Station steps need to be replaced.
Board to request Supervisor have steps installed temporarily and will
replace with concrete on a permanent basis.
Salaries
discussed. Others present: Dawn Peters, Charlene Churchill, Mike Smith,
Jane deLeeuw, Eileen Tougas, Calvin Carr, Janis Carr, Bob Viarengo, Budge
Litchfield, Ned Wolf, Dave Howland, Jeff Simmons.
Bob
Viarengo offered comments relative to salary management. Board offered FRCOG salary comparative
data. Rating scale does not exist
currently. Post Office data not
available in FRCOG information. Town
Coordinator offered information for Post Office wages based on area
survey. Bob offered to research with
respect to the Post Office Manager position.
Board commented they wish to review all positions. Finance Chair offered comments regarding
benefits package and personnel policy and its being updated, and if inequities,
they need to be addressed. The Post
Office contract is reviewed every five years.
Budget constraints have caused salaries to remain at current levels. Job classification systems needs to be
established. Merit increases is an
option as well. Many factors to be
considered in bringing up wage structure.
Board is making a commitment to setting up a salary structure. Discussed grant management process. Finance Committee presented a list of
possible public forums. Discussed
school budget and burden placed on the town and how it impacts the overall
budget, including salary line items.
Bob Viarengo and Dave Howland agreed to look at salary structure issues
and provide input to the Board.
Board
met with Finance Committee. Dave
Howland, Budge Litchfield, Jeff Simmons.
Discussed
shortages to cover FY04 expenditures.
Finance has voted to utilize Reserve Fund with remainder of shortages to
be placed on a Special Town Meeting warrant.
Will plan to utilize stabilization funds to cover shortages. Finance inquired to capital equipment
financing. Discussed use of Chapter 90
funds. Finance requested a list of
Chapter 90 projects in a prioritized format.
Brian made motion to set a Special Town Meeting for August 23 at 7:00
p.m. at the elementary school. Sheila
seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Continued
mail review. Board approved purchase of
new vacuum cleaner for Custodian. Noted
punch list items for elevator project.
Received a completed dog complaint form. Town Coordinator to follow up with Dog Officer and confirm her
attendance at the next Board meeting.
Noted reorganization of FCCIP within the FRCOG. Board commented on National Grid item
regarding providing residents information regarding spraying via the town
website, and Massachusetts Municipal Association bulletins.
Brian
made motion to approve minutes of June 28, 2004. Sheila seconded.
Unanimous. Motion carried.
Discussed
metal bin and the fact that it is beyond repair. Renting is a better option.
Brian made motion to dispose of existing metals bin and rent container
from Waste District. Sheila
seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Discussed
wage classification schedule. Tom to
set up in a spreadsheet.
Brian
made motion to adjourn at 10:25 p.m.
Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Respectfully
submitted,
Rebecca
M. Jurek, Town Coordinator
Minutes
of Meeting
BOARD
OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer
Hall
JUNE
28, 2004
Meeting
called to order at 7:00 p.m.
Board
of Selectmen present: Tom Lively,
Sheila Litchfield, and Brian DeVriese
Others
present: Becky Jurek.
Reviewed
and revised agenda to include Dog Officer, Historical Commission, and tree
removal.
Met
with Historical Commission Chair Del Viarengo.
Commission requesting approval of a $5,000 grant for the completion of
an application to the National Registry of Historical Places to allow for the
designation of the Town Center and Town Common areas. No matching funds required as personnel is to compile the
data. Expect application to be completed
within a year. Grant is made available
through the Highland Communities Initiative small grants program from the
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission.
Public meetings will be set up to provide the community with an update
to the process. Brian made motion to
approve submittal of the grant application.
Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Mohawk
District Central Office is requesting support to borrow $260,000 for the
Buckland-Shelburne Elementary School project.
Board in support of the school committee's decision to approve. Letter presented as such and signed. Town Coordinator to follow up with Business
Manager at Mohawk.
Board
requested follow up to Lane Construction bid item. Town Coordinator to follow up.
Brian
made motion to award truck and equipment bid to Delurey Sales & Service,
Inc. for a total of $86,084.00. Sheila
seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Incomplete bid package received from Nutmeg International. Noted.
Several
request for leave forms presented.
Signed. Chapter 90-project
request forms for gravel presented.
Signed. Discussed account
shortages. Board in favor of utilizing
Finance Reserve funds. Town Counsel
invoice and building permits presented.
Reviewed and initialed.
Board
in receipt of letter of resignation from Margo Newton as Building Custodian
effective immediately and Rebecca Jurek as Assistant Town Accountant effective
July 12, 2004. Brian made motion to
accept resignations with regret. Sheila
seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Town Coordinator to follow up with potential Custodial applicant
and Board Chair to follow up with Town Accountant regarding the bi-weekly
payroll as provided through the Assistant position.
MIIA
employee assistance program enrollment is wishing to enhance public safety
personnel policies with fees. Board not
interested in this. MIIA has made a
$793 credit towards our FY05 insurance premium through our participation in
their Rewards Program.
Discussed
revenue shared from Waste Management District to the Franklin County Solid
Waste Management District and into an escrow (MRIP) account. Brian made motion to agree to sharing of
revenue. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
Motion carried. Discussed
Transfer Station bin. Tom to follow up
on price of new unit.
Franklin
County Home Care Corporation grant applications submitted. Tom signed.
Franklin
Regional Council of Governments requires representative appointment. Brian nominated Tom Lively. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion
carried.
Discussed
Huntley bill. Board requested invoice
be modified. Town Coordinator to follow
up with Huntley.
Discussed
FY05 appointments. Definition of Parks
and Recreation versus Open Space and Recreation Commission discussed. Needs clarification of roles and appointees
for same. Town Coordinator to follow
up. Board made appointments, keeping
nearly all the same from FY04 to FY05.
Board to offer Emergency Management Director position to Timothy
Lively. The LEPC designation consists
of: Fire Chief, Police Chief, Highway
Superintendent, Selectboard Member, Emergency Management Director, and Bob
Tanner as an alternate member of LEPC.
Attendance at LEPC meetings is required by the Emergency Management
Director. Town Coordinator to work with
Director to ensure follow up with meetings and grant deadlines. Tabled further appointments until next
meeting.
Discussed
tree in front of Dot Sessions' property.
Evidence of debris on road.
Brian to follow up with Highway Superintendent to arrange to obtain
price to have tree taken down, along with other trees along the roadway, and
removed. Town crew to chip brush.
Reviewed
mail. Noted letter from resident
regarding request for salary increase for Post Office Manager, year-end
procedures from Accountant, and Department of Revenue letter regarding Mohawk
E&D funds. Noted memo from the Town
of Charlemont regarding gravel operation.
Local preparedness grant for $12,800 has been completed and submitted.
Reviewed
minutes of June 14, 2004. Brian made
motion to accept as revised. Sheila
seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Board
requested Dog Officer be rescheduled for next meeting. Town Coordinator to follow up.
Reviewed
payroll warrant. Brian made motion to
accept. Sheila seconded. Unanimous Motion carried.
Brian
made motion to adjourn at 10:15 p.m.
Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Respectfully
submitted,
Rebecca
M. Jurek
Town
Coordinator
Patriot
Act Letter sent as voted at May ATM.
June
14, 2004
Honorable
John W. Olver
United
States House of Representatives
1027
Longworth House Office Building
Washington
DC 20515-2101
Dear
Representative Olver:
Please
be advised that on May 8, 2004 at Town Meeting in Heath, Massachusetts, the enclosed
Patriot Act Resolution was passed by a majority vote. We are the 310th town in the U.S.A. to pass such a
Resolution. The changes we are most
concerned about for our town are:
*
Sections 411/802, which gives the Attorney General and the Secretary of State
the power to designate domestic groups as "terrorist organizations"
*
Sections 411/412, which asserts that an unknowing association with terrorists
is a deportable offense, and allows non-citizens to be jailed indefinitely
without the government having to show they are terrorists
*
Sections 214/216 which all but eliminates judicial supervision of telephone and
Internet surveillance
*
Sections 213/806, which greatly expands the government's ability to conduct
secret searches and take away one's property without a hearing
*
Sections 215/505 which grants the FBI broad access to medical, mental health,
financial, educational, and library records about individuals without having to
show evidence of a crime and without a court order
* Executive
Orders passed on November 13, 2001 which establish secret military tribunals
for terrorism suspects, which permits wiretapping of conversations between
federal prisoners and their lawyers, lifts Justice Department regulations
against illegal cointelpro-type operations by the FBI (covert activities such
as wiretapping without a court order that in the past targeted domestic groups
and individuals)
*
Executive Orders passed on March 25, 2003, which limits the disclosure of
public documents and records under the Freedom of Information Act
We urge
you to support Congressional efforts to assess the impact of the Patriot Act on
our society.
Sincerely,
BOARD
OF SELECTMEN
Thomas
S. Lively Brian DeVriese Sheila M. Litchfield
Chair
Enclosure
Town
voted by a majority vote on May 8, 2004 to adopt the following resolution: To defend our state and federal
Constitutions from threats imposed upon them by the USA PATRIOT Act and certain
Executive Orders, by calling upon our elected representatives to work for their
repeal.
Whereas
the threat to our communities' security posed by acts of terror at home and
abroad moves us to speak out against the need to sacrifice civil liberties in
order to secure our lives, recognizing that such a sacrifice itself incites
terror; and
Whereas
the Bill of Rights of the United States Constitution guarantees those living in
the United States the following rights:
*
Freedom of speech, assembly and privacy;
* The
rights to counsel and due process in judicial proceedings; and
*
Protection from unreasonable searches and seizures and subpoenas without a
court order; and
Whereas
we believe these civil liberties are inalienable, yet are now threatened by
A. The USA PATRIOT Act, which, among other
provisions,
* Gives
the Attorney General and the Secretary of State the power to designate domestic
groups as "terrorist organizations" (Sections 411/802);
*
Asserts that an unknowing association with terrorists is a deportable offense,
and allows non-citizens to be jailed indefinitely without the government's
having to show they are terrorists (Sections 411/412);
* All
but eliminates judicial supervision of telephone and Internet surveillance
(Sections 214/216);
* Greatly
expands the government's ability to conduct secret searches and take away one's
property without a hearing (Sections 213/806);
*
Grants the FBI broad access to medical, mental health, financial, educational,
and library records about individuals without having to show evidence of a
crime and without a court order (Sections 215/505); and
B.
Federal Executive Orders, which, for example,
*
Establish secret military tribunals for terrorism suspects (11/13/01);
*
Permit wiretapping of conversations between federal prisoners and their
lawyers;
* Lift
Justice Department regulations against illegal COINTELPRO-type operations by
the FBI (covert activities such as wiretapping without a court order that in
the past targeted domestic groups and individuals); and
* Limit
the disclosure of public documents and records under the Freedom of Information
Act (3/25/03); and
Whereas
the USA PATRIOT Act and these Executive Orders particularly target foreign
nationals and people of Middle Eastern and South Asian descent, but could
affect any one of us in the U.S.A. acting and speaking legally in opposing
government policy; and
Whereas
we, the citizens of Heath, Massachusetts, do fully support and seek to uphold
and protect the United States Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the
Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and its Declaration of
Rights; and
Whereas
sections of the USA PATRIOT Act and these several Executive Orders now threaten
many of our fundamental rights guaranteed by the above-named documents;
Now,
therefore, we, the citizens of Heath, Massachusetts, do hereby call upon our
local officials to urge, on behalf of the citizens of this town, our
Congressman and Senators to work actively for the repeal of all sections of the
aforementioned Act and Orders that permit the violation our fundamental rights
and liberties as set out in the state and federal constitutions, which form the
bedrock of freedom in the United States of America.
Minutes
of Meeting
BOARD
OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer
Hall
MAY
24, 2004
Meeting
called to order at 7:00 p.m.
Board
of Selectmen present: Tom Lively, Brian
DeVriese, and Sheila Litchfield.
Others
present: Becky Jurek.
Reviewed
agenda. Modified to include lawn
mowing, retirement party, street sweeping, letter to Mohawk, and highway
maintenance. Board to request Highway
Superintendent attend next Board meeting.
Residents,
Alistair Maitland, Hazel Porter, Janis Carr, Calvin Carr, Margaret Freeman,
Donald Freeman and Del Viarengo met with the Board in follow up to the public
information session regarding Yankee waste haulage. Residents inquired to the process of how the subject cam
about. A member of the Charlemont Board
of Selectmen initiated the discussion.
Discussed most recent meeting.
Consensus of Heath Board is that they are gathering information relative
to closing the landfill, material that is suitable for shaping or capping. Resident inquired to cost sharing of
landfill and Chairman Lively offered a summary. Brian provided a history of the cost sharing. Discussed capping and shaping process. Engineering cost factor unknown. Citizens group offered to assist with the
process. Discussed the environmental
bond bill. Residents expressed the fact that Heath was declared a nuclear-free
zone in 1983. Leighton and Martha
McCutchen joined the meeting. Board
offered water-testing results on properties abutting the landfill. Board Chair stated it did not seem feasible
to accept non-radioactive waste from Yankee, but capping costs are a
consideration and the Board wishes to exhaust any and all alternatives. Timeframe for capping discussed. Board commented on court action
timeline. Discussed independent testing
agencies and that the Solid Waste District is offering services to the three
towns. Letter writing campaign to
legislators encouraged. Board to follow
up with residents regarding the ordinance and information relative to the bond
bill.
Article
3 for Annual Town Meeting to be reviewed at next Board meeting with the Finance
Committee.
Letter
presented regarding the school budget.
Signed.
Discussed
draft Special Town Meeting warrant and potential year-end expenses. Town Coordinator to issue notes to
department heads regarding whether they have adequate funds to carry through
end of fiscal year. Warrant must be
finalized before June 12th.
Brian
made motion to accept with regrets the resignation of Bill Lattrell from the
Conservation Commission. Sheila
seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Brian
made motion to appoint Margo Newton as Interim Chief of Police until September
30, 2004. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
Motion carried. Board to meet
with members of the Police Department at the next Board meeting.
Board
met with Board of Health Chairman Dawn Peters.
Discussed issues relative to Mohawk Estates properties in relation to
zoning bylaws. Board of Health is
working with Mohawk Estates Association.
Discussed involvement with building inspector as enforcement agent,
along with town counsel and Planning Board.
Another source of advice is the regional housing authority. Next Board of Health meeting is scheduled in
June. Health board to provide a
progress update to the Selectmen.
Board
has been advised that the lawn mower is out of service. Brian made motion to authorize purchase of a
new mower utilizing lawn-mowing expense account. Sheila seconded.
Unanimous. Motion carried. Brian
to follow up with Highway Superintendent regarding mowing services. Noted that the Transfer Station paper box
requires management. Brian to follow up
with Transfer Station Supervisor.
Reviewed
mail. Signed leave request forms. Noted Highway Superintendent away next
week. Initialed building permits. Inspection Program agreement with FRCOG
presented. Signed.
Minutes
of May 17, 2004 presented. Brian made
motion to approve. Sheila
seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Board
noted recent attendance at the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce legislative
luncheon in which Town Nurse Joanne Fortune received a public health
award. Congratulations noted.
Brian
made motion to adjourn at 10:20 p.m.
Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Respectfully
submitted,
Rebecca
M. Jurek
Town
Coordinator
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
TOWN OF
HEATH
SAWYER
HALL
1 EAST
MAIN STREET
HEATH,
MA 01346
Telephone
413/337-4934
Fax
413/337-8542
Email:
bos@townofheath.org
Minutes
of Meeting
BOARD
OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer
Hall
MAY
17, 2004
Call to
Order: Meeting called to order at 7:00
p.m.
Board
of Selectmen present: Tom Lively, Brian
DeVriese, and Sheila Litchfield
Others
present: Becky Jurek
Agenda
Review: Reviewed and revised agenda to
include Post Office and Conservation Commission business items.
Bob
Dane presented Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) documents concerning
property owned by Lucianna Ross. Brian
made motion to approve the APR for the property. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Board
met with Bruce Hunter from the Franklin County Regional Housing &
Redevelopment Authority. Mr. Hunter
provided an update to the Sawyer Hall renovation project, to include punch list
items to be addressed, including painting, with an anticipated completion date
of May 30th. Senior Center/Community
Hall rehabilitation project has started.
Reviewed contractors schedule and progress report offered. Discussed alternate list. Discussed fiscal year 2005 block grant
application and road improvement list.
Distribution of income surveys is the next phase of the application
process.
Town
Accountant has requested action relative to a warrant item. Brian made motion to authorize payment of
$539.95 from Machinery Maintenance/Supplies account as submitted on a recent
warrant. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
Motion carried. Town Coordinator
to follow up with Accountant.
Board
met with school committee representatives and Finance Committee to discuss
school budget issues.
Present: Bob Gruen, Art Schwenger, Dave Howland, Jeff
Simmons, Ned Wolf, Budge Litchfield, Dave Cote. Finance Chair indicated they are proposing letters be generated
to the Superintendent of Schools and to all school committee representatives
requesting a reduction in the assessment due to financial update with respect
to transportation and special education.
Budget subcommittee comments provided by Bob. Discussed the possibility of readdressing the school budget vote
at the upcoming continued Annual Town Meeting.
Discussed use of E&D funds by the district. Letter to be drafted based on discussions.
Briefly
discussed Article 3 on the upcoming Annual Town Meeting warrant. Board to meet with Finance Committee on June
14th at 7:45 p.m. to continue discussion.
Brian
made motion to set a Special Town Meeting date for June 26th at 8:30 a.m. to
address an FY03 expense, as well as any possible FY04 expenses. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Board requested a draft warrant for next meeting.
Discussed
the recent presentation at Town Meeting by officials from the Mohawk
District. Board in agreement to send
letter to Superintendent based on feedback from discussions this evening. Board requested school committee
representatives attend Selectmen's meetings on a more regular basis. Representatives in agreement. Discussed audio or videotaping of town
meetings. Finance and school committee
members departed.
Mail
Review & Town Coordinator Business: Grant for emergency services equipment
available. Town Coordinator to follow
up on. Request received from Post
Office Manager for salary increase.
Board will take into consideration.
Received a note from Bill Lattrell requested that he not be reappointed
to the Conservation Commission.
Noted. Brian to contact him.
Items
presented for signature: FRCOG highway
bid procurement contract. Brian made
motion to contract with FRCOG for these services. Sheila seconded.
Unanimous. Motion carried. Board
signed note to resident regarding Transfer Station hours of operation.
Discussed
the need for the Selectmen to communicate with departments on a regular basis.
Town
Coordinator presented results of soliciting quotes for generator at Town
Office. Due to a tie, coin toss decided
award. Brian made motion to award to
Andrus Power. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
Motion carried.
Electrical
system upgrade at the Salt Shed is complete as noted by Chief of Police. The Board of Health is following up on a
grant for a communications device for use by their members. Notice from FRCOG regarding radio
communication equipment. Emergency
Management Director to be following up on this equipment grant. Board noted results of three public hearings
held by the Planning Board.
New
Business
Board
reorganized. Brian made motion to
appoint Tom as Chair, Sheila as Secretary, and Brian as liaison to Highway
Department. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
Motion carried.
Board
established meeting schedule. Adopting
a bi-weekly Monday meeting schedule beginning next week until the end of
August. Meeting dates set for: May 24,
June 14 and 28, July 12 and 26, and August 9 and 23. Will review the meeting schedule in September. Board anticipates resuming a bi-weekly
Tuesday meeting schedule at that time.
Old
Business:
Discussed
setting a three-town landfill meeting.
Tentative dates May 20th or 25th, or June 1st. Follow up required.
Warrant
Action: Reviewed and signed payroll
warrant.
Other
Business: Future agenda items to
consider: Police Department staffing
and appointment of an Agricultural Commission.
Discussed Highway Department projects, including grading and status of
street sweeping. Brian to follow up.
Minutes: Minutes of May 4, 2004 presented. Brian made motion to accept as
corrected. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
Motion carried.
Discussed
Follow Up items on the agenda.
Adjourn: Brian made motion to adjourn at 10:45
p.m. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
Motion carried.
Respectfully
submitted,
Rebecca
M. Jurek
Town
Coordinator
Minutes
of Meeting
BOARD
OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer
Hall
MAY
4, 2004
Call to
Order: Meeting called to order at 7:00
p.m.
Board
of Selectmen present: Brian DeVriese,
Sheila Litchfield, and Tom Lively
Others
present: Ron Woodard, Jeff Simmons, and
Becky Jurek
Reviewed
and revised agenda to include landfill status, Avery Brook Road, new
appointments.
Mr.
Woodard met with the Board to discuss dog restraint issues. Mr. Woodard conveyed his concern with other
dogs not under restraint in the center of town, and inquired to the Dog
Officer's response to his concern.
Board to follow up with Dog Officer.
Mr. Woodard has installed a fence and has secured his dogs. Discussed dog bylaws and circulation to
residents. Board wants assurance that
residents can walk safely. Board
encouraged Mr. Woodard to contact the Dog Officer as necessary, and noted their
appreciation for his cooperation with the issue. Board discussed the process of logging complaints. Town Counsel has offered a form for this
purpose. Sheila made motion to adopt
the use of the form. Brian
seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Town Coordinator to make available at Town Office and to the Dog
Officer.
Board
met with Chief of Police Lorin Gowdy.
Brian made motion to convene to Executive Session at 7:25 p.m. for the
purpose discussing the reputation, character, physical condition or mental
health of an individual, with motion to reconvene meeting in open session. Sheila seconded. Roll call vote: Brian,
aye. Sheila, aye. Tom, aye.
Unanimous. Motion carried.
Reconvened
open meeting at 7:45 p.m.
Brian
made motion to accept a medical leave of absence effective immediately along
with retirement effective July 1, 2004 for Lorin Gowdy. Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Brian
made motion to appoint Margo Newton as Interim Chief of Police effective
immediately until June 30, 2004. Sheila
seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried. Mike Chrisman and Margo Newton joined the meeting. Margo indicated her acceptance of the
appointment. Board extended a thank you
to Chief Gowdy for his many years of service to the town.
Finance
Committee joined the meeting: Charlene
Churchill, Ned Wolf, David Howland, and Budge Litchfield. Jeff Simmons rejoined the meeting.
Discussed
Mohawk budget, which included town meeting results of some of the towns within
the district where the school budget has passed. Heath is anticipating a tax rate of $25.98 without the use of
Free Cash. Legislative update provided
by Finance Chair. Discussed capital
assessment. Finance Committee
recommends Articles 4 and 6 on the upcoming town meeting warrant.
Tom
declared bids closed at 8:30 p.m. for the 2004 Highway Department truck and
equipment. Received a truck bid from
Nutmeg International Trucks, Inc, and a truck and equipment bid from Delurey
Sales & Service. Highway
Superintendent to review bids for completeness and report findings to the
Board. Discussed Highway Department
staffing due to medical leave of staff person.
Continued
Article 3 warrant review with Finance Committee. Networking figures presented by Town Coordinator. Issue tabled for future annual town meeting
warrant. Finance Committee
departed.
Town
Coordinator Business:
1.
Heath Elementary School will be having a Memorial Day celebration on May 28th
at 8:30 a.m. in the Center Cemetery.
2.
Recycling mini-grant available. Town
Coordinator to follow up.
3.
Service for elevator at Community Hall will be coordinated with renovation
project.
4.
Presented draft legal notice to solicit price quotes for fuel. Board in agreement.
5.
Currently seeking quotes on generators to utilize Community Policing
funds. Will advise at next
meeting.
6.
Discussed inquiry regarding small copier being relocated to Town Office. Board in agreement with placing outside
supply closet on second floor.
7. Lawn
mowing and roadside mowing solicitation of price quotes presented. Brian made motion to accept low bids and
award contingent on town meeting approval.
Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
8.
Landfill: Executive Director at F.C.
Solid Waste Management District has offered services with regards to the
landfill capping. Board requested her
attendance at the upcoming landfill meeting.
9.
Items presented for signature:
professional liability forms, request for leave forms, electrical permit
for work performed at the Highway Department garage. Signed. Presented a
Memorandum of Understanding for hauling and disposal services through the
Franklin County Solid Waste Management District. Brian made motion to sign.
Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
Motion carried.
Warrant
Action: Reviewed and signed warrants.
New
Business:
Brian
made motion to appoint Bruce Phillips, Sandy and Ken Gilbert, Judy Singley,
Jonathan Diamond, David Bohrer, Tom Lively, David Freeman, and Sheila
Litchfield to the Parks & Recreation Committee. Sheila seconded.
Unanimous. Motion carried.
Discussed
Chief of Police position.
Brian
made motion to appoint as Assistant Town Clerk Eileen Tougas on a temporary
basis in the absence of the Town Clerk for election and town meeting
coverage. Sheila seconded. Unanimous.
Motion carried.
Old
Business:
Discussed
bid and grant management guideline checklists.
Will utilize these forms for disposition of equipment as well.
Landfill: A public information meeting has been set for
May 13th at the Hawlemont School for 7:00 p.m. to discuss the topic of
exploring accepting waste from Yankee Atomic.
Discussed consultation/engineering fee proposal from Huntley, as well as
the involvement of the Waste District regarding the landfill capping.
Avery
Brook Road cleanup update:
Environmental Police are not providing inspection service. Sheila provided an update on the level of
local Board of Health involvement.
Mail
Review: Noted letter requesting the
town not close the Transfer Station on Mondays. Board member also noted having received a phone call indicating
same. Board may consider increasing
line item in budget to allow for Transfer Station to be open on Mondays
according to the current operation schedule.
MEMA is hosting a regional meeting on May 17th. Received a letter from Yankee regarding the
most recent landfill meeting. Town
Counsel has offered a response to the dog complaints issue. Town is eligible to receive a grant for a
communications device purchase through the Executive Office of Public
Safety. Building Inspection Program
informational update provided. Planning
Board has received a letter concerning an application for the establishment of
an auto repair business. Noted.
Minutes: Minutes of April 13, 2004 presented. Brian made motion to accept. Tom seconded. Motion carried. Minutes
of April 20, 2004 presented. Brian made
motion to accept as revised. Sheila
seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Brian
made motion to adjourn at 11:30 p.m.
Sheila seconded. Unanimous. Motion carried.
Respectfully
submitted,
Rebecca
M. Jurek, Town Coordinator