This page contains minutes of Select Board Meetings starting with January 2008. The most current meetings are listed at the top.
MEETING
MINUTES
Town of
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
April 8, 2008
Called to order at 7:06 p.m. by Tom Lively with Brian De Vriese and Sheila Litchfield present. Also present Town Coordinator Gloria Fisher.
Agenda was reviewed
with update on Assessors’ software added to new business.
7:08 Mike Smith entered the meeting.
Annual
Discussed the management aspects of the Highway Supt.’s position, the revisions made to the Highway Dept.’s job descriptions, meeting with the Board monthly, the Snow Plowing Policy, and the FY08 Highway Dept. budget. Mike noted that he had done positive annual performance reviews for the Highway crew members. Discussed the potential purchase of a new truck to replace the 550. It will cost approximately $85,000. Objectives for the coming year were set, and Mike was thanked for the good job the Highway Dept. did this winter keeping the roads clear.
7:56 Finance Committee members Dave Howland, Jan Carr, Ned Wolf, and Dave Gott entered the meeting.
8:07 Mike left the meeting.
Town Nurse Budget
Hearing
The Town Coordinator presented the FY09 budget request for Town Nurse, Donna Weber. Donna will be asked to clarify her request for a budget increase.
Finance Committee
Discussed when the tax rate might be set and the hope that it will be soon. Discussed annual town meeting and special town meeting warrants. ATM warrants must be posted by May 2, and STM warrants must be posted by April 25. Reviewed the Town Accountant’s summary of accounts overdrawn, those needing transfers, and those with excess funds. It was noted that an estimate for repair of the salt shed has not yet been received. It was suggested that spending for the rest of the current fiscal year be curtailed. A memo will be sent to all town departments asking that everyone exercise restraint in spending for the rest of the fiscal year. Brian moved to send the memo asking for restraint in spending. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
8:28 Town Clerk Hilma Sumner entered the meeting.
Hilma presented her FY09 budget request and noted the need for another election worker. Discussed the need to purchase software for the electronic voting machine for town elections. Also requested was a stipend increase for the Constables. The Board noted that it will be looking at Town stipends in the coming weeks.
The Town has been asked by the FRCOG to withdraw from the County Dog Program. There is a warrant article for the ATM that addresses this. Discussed an account for the dog license fees and associated expenses. The Town Clerk recommended changing the dog licensing fees from $3 for spayed females and all males to $5 for spayed females and neutered males, and from $6 for unspayed females to $10 for unspayed females and non-neutered males. Discussed the “kennel” fee – that the name is misleading and that the fees will also increase if the other license fees increase. It was noted that the Town’s Dog Bylaw would need to be changed to accommodate a change in the fees. The Town Coordinator and the Town Clerk will work together on a recommendation to the Board.
8:54 Hilma left the meeting.
ATM Warrant Articles
The Board and the FinCom reviewed each proposed warrant article and made suggestions. It was decided to rearrange the order of some of the articles. Brian moved to approve the warrant as amended. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous. The warrant will be submitted to Town Counsel for his review.
Assessors Software
Discussed the Assessors’ request for new assessing software and the concurrent need for new software for the Tax Collector. There appear to be four options: 1. make no change now; 2. wait until the state fixes the current software; 3. buy licenses and software for both the Assessors and the Tax Collector; and 4. have a bridge built for the Tax Collector. Discussed the options noting that it will cost at least $13,000 to do this now. The Board would like to see the changes made and the software purchased, but are concerned with the cost this fiscal year and would like to wait until next year. Sheila will speak with the Assessors and the Tax Collector to gather their ideas before the Board and the FinCom make any decisions.
Letter to Legislators
Discussed the letter regarding SPED funding. Brian moved to sign the letter and send it to the legislators listed. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous. Both the Board and the FinCom signed the letter.
9:52 Dave Howland, Dave Gott, Jan Carr, and Ned Wolf left the meeting.
Highway Dept. Job
Descriptions
The Board reviewed the revised Highway Dept. job descriptions
and using the methods and formulas previously used rated each job description.
The Highway Truck Drivers positions will be increased from Grade 5 to Grade 6.
Referring to the salary survey of positions in certain
Warrants were signed.
Brian moved to adjourn. Sheila seconded. The vote was
unanimous
Next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 15, 2008, in Sawyer Hall.
Adjourned at 11:15 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Gloria Fisher, Town Coordinator
MEETING
MINUTES
Town of
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
April
1, 2008
Called to order at 7:01 p.m. by Tom Lively with Brian De Vriese and Sheila Litchfield present. Also present Town Coordinator Gloria Fisher; Heath Library Director Don Purington; WCN reporter Liz Fitzpatrick; and Finance Committee members Dave Howland, Ned Wolf, and Jan Carr.
Agenda was reviewed
with Verizon petition and Historic District added to
new business.
Budget Hearing
Library
Library Director Don Purington presented his proposed FY09 budget. He noted that there was a significant decrease in the CWMars line due to a grant that the library will receive. He also asked for an increase in Library Operating Expenses to purchase a computer for library patrons. Discussed the redesign of the library space and old donated books that could perhaps be sold to a bookseller. This will be investigated. The library budget hearing ended.
7:15 Don Purington left the meeting.
Budget Hearing Board
of Selectmen
The Town Coordinator presented the proposed FY09 budget. Accounts with requested increases include BOS Operating Expenses (to cover conference registration) and Sawyer and Community halls Maintenance and Utilities (to cover costs of heating and electricity). Line items decreased include Rabies Vaccinations and Property, Casualty, Workmen’s Comp. Insurance. Stipends will be discussed at a future meeting. Discussed recycling rates.
7:45 Kris Burnes entered the meeting.
Budget Hearing Board
of Health
Kris presented a level funded FY09 budget for the Board of Health. Discussed the appropriation for the FRCOG Health Agent and what that entails. Kris noted that camper/trailer inspections were going well and the BOH expected to have 80% compliance.
7:56
8:00
Budget Hearing Post
Office
Budget Hearing Police
Department
8:28
Finance Committee
Discussed what the increase in the cost of living was in 2007 and cost of living adjustments. The FRCOG will be asked what cost of living adjustment will be given to their employees to use as a reference.
Discussed Tracey’s request for a transfer of funds from the Reserve fund. The Finance Committee approved a transfer of $2,710.27 from the Reserve Account to the Vehicle Gas and Oil account. Discussed how to pay the overdrawn winter accounts.
School Issues – disappointment was expressed that the
Assessors’/Tax Collector’s Software – Sheila has met with the Assessors’ Clerk and the Tax Collector. A software recommendation will be made at next week’s meeting.
9:25 Dave, Ned, Jan, and Liz left the meeting.
New Business
· Historic District – the Heath Historical Commission would like to have a ceremony presenting certificates to members of the Heath Center Historic District. It was suggested that this could happen at town meeting.
·
Verizon Petition – after reading the petition
presented by Verizon, Brian moved that permission be
granted to Verizon to place a concrete pad and a
cabinet with a power pedestal on
Mail Review
· Received a form for the Board to fill out with regard to the Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). The form should be filled out by April 25 and returned to Emergency Management Director Tim Lively.
· Notice from Rep. Guyer’s office of a public hearing of the Joint Committee on Education for the legislation (re: SBAB reimbursement) filed on behalf of the Buckland Selectmen to be held on Tuesday, April 8, at 2:30 p.m.
· Notice that the DEP has requested BOH minutes and site notes for 2006 up until the present.
·
Notice from MEMA of an EMD quarterly meeting to be held on April 10 in
· The FRTA notice of the need for a disabled commuter representative to serve as a nonvoting member of the FRTA Advisory Board.
· E-mail from the Highway Supt. regarding the a proposed cost of $85,000 for a new Highway Dept. truck. Also, his request for a larger truck than the one being replaced.
·
Received the
· Notice from insurance company MIIA of an enhancement to the their EAP program.
· Memo from the FRCOG of an EPA grant to assess potential brownfields.
· E-mail from Highway Supt. asking that a young Heath resident be allowed to fulfill his Community Service requirement at the Highway Dept. Brian moved to approve the Community Service request. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
· Received a citizen’s petition for the annual town meeting warrant. The petition is in regard to the Vermont Yankee’s application for relicensure for an additional 20 years and calls for the decommissioning of the Vermont Nuclear Power Plant.
· Estimate of $7,500-$8,000 received from the Highway Supt. for fixing the collapsed roof and building damage at the Highway Dept.
Town Coordinator
Report
· Discussed the annual town report and who it would be dedicated to. Sheila will compile information for the dedication.
· Discussed the FY09 budget worksheet and the annual town meeting warrant.
Old Business
· Salary Survey – cost of living adjustments will be figured out and salaries will be discussed next week.
·
School Issues – Sheila will speak with Principal Mislak about an open
house. The Board discussed studying a
Documents and
Warrants were signed.
Minutes
Brian moved to approve the minutes of March 18, 2008, as submitted. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
Brian moved to approve the minutes of March 28, 2008, as submitted. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous
Brian moved to adjourn. Sheila seconded. The vote was
unanimous
Next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 8, 2008, in Sawyer Hall.
Adjourned at 10:35 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Gloria Fisher, Town Coordinator
MEETING
MINUTES
Town of
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
March 28, 2008
Called to order at 8:15 a.m. by Tom Lively with Brian De Vriese present. Also present Town Coordinator Gloria Fisher, Assessors Chair Val Kaempfer, and Town Clerk Hilma Sumner.
Agenda was reviewed with
no changes.
Public Hearing –
Tax Classification
Tom opened the tax classification hearing at 8:15 a.m.. Brian moved to set a single tax rate in Heath for FY09.Tom seconded. The vote was unanimous. Brian moved to adjourn the hearing. Tom seconded. The vote was unanimous. The hearing was closed at 8:16 a.m..
The Board and the Town Clerk signed the classification tax allocation documents.
Brian moved to adjourn. Tom seconded. The vote was unanimous
Next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m., April 1, 2008, in Sawyer Hall.
Adjourned at 8:17 a.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Gloria Fisher, Town Coordinator
MEETING
MINUTES
Town of
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
March 11, 2008
Called to order at 7:07 p.m. by Tom Lively with Brian De Vriese and Sheila Litchfield present. Also present Town Coordinator Gloria Fisher and WCN reporter Liz Fitzpatrick.
Agenda was reviewed
with historical properties survey plan added to new business.
7:09 Assessors Val Kaempfer and Richard Gallup, Tax Collector Elizabeth Nichols, and Finance Committee members Dave Howland, Dave Gott, Ned Wolf, Jeff Simmons, and Jan Carr entered the meeting.
Assessors Budget
Hearing
Discussed the Assessors FY09 budget requests. The Assessors would like to purchase new assessing software, Patriot ($5800). Discussed the Assessors need for flexibility which the current software, which is provided by the State, doesn’t provide. It was noted that the Patriot software isn’t compatible with the Tax Collector’s software, and that it could cost up to $10,000 for new tax collecting software. The Assessors would like to purchase their software as soon as possible. Discussed the disparity between the Assessors desire to move quickly and the Tax Collector’s desire to research and test new software. Sheila will meet with the Assessors and the Tax Collector to chart a course of action. The Assessors and the Tax Collector will come back to the Board with a proposal by April 15.
7:48 Betty left the meeting.
Discussed the recent tax revaluation and when a FY08 property tax rate will be set. Also discussed the idea of a different property tax rate for second homes in Heath. The Assessors will investigate.
7:55 Val and Richard left the meeting. Highway Supt. Mike Smith entered the meeting.
Highway Department
Budget Hearing
Mike presented his FY09 budget requests. Mike noted that he added 8% to this year’s costs to come up with figures. Discussed what constitutes hired equipment and machine maintenance. Discussed roadside mowing and that it could start in mid-July 2008. Mike noted that he used FY05 as a basis for his computations for a FY09 request for vehicle gas and oil.
Winter Temporary Help – discussed the possible need to increase this line as four Highway Dept. crew members can’t do it all in a winter such as the one we’ve had. Discussed the need to draw up a plan for temporary help.
Discussed that the Highway Dept. is now at $81,000 deficit and that winter isn’t over. Discussed how to cover the deficit.
Mike informed the Board of his discussion with
Highway Dept. Employee Annual Performance Reviews were given to the Board.
8:55 Mike left the meeting.
Discussed the
Decided that budget items running a deficit will be discussed on April 1.
Jeff Simmons, BOH liaison to the BOS, discussed the interviews the Selectboard is conducting with the BOH members.
9:10 Dave H., Ned, Jeff, Jan, and Dave G. left the meeting.
Mail Review
· Notice of Franklin County Selectmen’s Assoc. dinner on March 17. Tom and Brian will attend.
· Notice from Bob Dean, FRCOG, of grant availability for occupational health and safety workshops. Sheila will follow up with him.
·
Invitation to Senator Rosenberg’s annual conference on
April 5 in
·
Invitation to the Mass Municipal Association’s spring
Legislative Breakfast Series. Gloria will attend the April 4 meeting in
· MIIA statement of a $380 Workman’s Compensation Insurance credit. The Board decided to apply the credit to future invoices.
· Received Mohawk’s Three-District Shared Expense Agreement.
· Memo from Heath’s Accountant re: accounts that are overdrawn.
· Notification of Preliminary Certification (preliminary review of the town’s revaluation program and proposed assessments) from the Dept. of Revenue.
·
E-mail from Leslee Colucci,
· Two memos from Kopelman and Paige – Processing/Disposition of Claims and Lawsuits and Snow and Ice Budgets.
· Notice from Mass Emergency Management Agency commending Heath’s Emergency Management Director for the work he did during the April 2007 flood.
Town Coordinator
Report
· Reported that Verizon is in the process of bringing DSL to most of Heath.
· Presented update on Firefighters Incentive Awards and Fire Chief’s stipend.
· Noted that Sen. Ben Downing will be in Hawley on March 28 at 3:30 to meet with residents from Hawley and the surrounding area. There is still no word from Sen. Downing or Rep. Bosley on when they would be able to meet with the Heath Board.
· Provided costs of diesel and gasoline from FY04 through FY08.
·
Discussed the FY09 budget and the
New Business
·
Historical Properties Survey – the Historical Commission provided
three copies of the Town of
Old Business
· It was noted that there may be a candidate for vacancy on the Conservation Commission.
· Highway Bathroom – discussed renovations and adding a shower.
· March 18 meeting at the school was discussed and the agenda was set.
Documents and
Warrants were signed.
Minutes
Brian moved to approve the minutes of February 19, 2008, as submitted. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
Brian moved to approve the minutes of March 4, 2008, as amended. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
Brian moved to adjourn. Sheila seconded. The vote was
unanimous
Next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m., Tuesday, March 18,
2008, at the
Adjourned at 10:58 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Gloria Fisher, Town Coordinator
MEETING
MINUTES
Town of
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
March 4, 2008
Called to order at 7:03 p.m. by Tom Lively with Brian De Vriese and Sheila Litchfield present. Also present Town Coordinator Gloria Fisher, Treasurer Kris Nartowicz, and Finance Committee members Dave Howland and Jan Carr.
Agenda was reviewed
with library requests added to new business.
Annual Performance
Review of Treasurer
Annual Performance Review held with Town Accountant. The job description was reviewed with no changes made. Objectives and goals for the coming year were discussed. Kris was commended for doing a very good job under adverse circumstances this past year.
Condemned Property
The Treasurer discussed two properties that have been condemned and on which the owners are delinquent with property taxes. Discussed possible foreclosure with the decision being made to hold off on foreclosing.
7:18 – 7:20 Ned Wolf and Dave Gott entered the meeting.
Budget Hearing
Treasurer
The Treasurer presented her proposed FY 09 budget. Discussed the requested increase in the FICA/Medicare account. The increase was requested due to a shortage this year caused by hiring summer temporary workers to help with last year’s flood damage. Kris also noted that the highway truck and the fire engine will be paid off in 2009. The budget hearing ended.
7:30 Kris left the meeting.
Library Requests
A memo from the Library Director asked the Board to review information from the Mass Attorney General concerning a $300 settlement to the Heath Library as part of a suit brought against certain music companies and retailers. Brian moved to accept the $300, which must be used exclusively by the pubic library for music related programs or projects. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous, and the agreement was signed.
The Shelburne Falls Fraternal Order of the Eagles Ladies Auxiliary donated $500 to the Heath Free Public Library. The Board was asked to accept this donation to be used for library renovations. Brian moved to accept the donation of $500 to be deposited into the Library Construction Gift account to be used for library renovations. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
Town Coordinator Report
· STAM Meeting – reported on STAM meeting with the primary topic broadband service. Verizon will be installing new lines and Heath will be getting DSL service in most parts of town within a year.
· Budget – work continues on the FY09 budget.
· Website Update – continues to be updated. Town Coordinator is also working on a new design.
· Ambulance Grant – the Assistance to Firefighters grant is now on the Homeland Security website.
· Salary Survey – updated to replace Leverett with New Salem.
· Salt and Sand – recalculated using FY05 figures at FY08 costs and put it into a spreadsheet.
Winter Sand and Salt
Discussed the amount of money spent this winter on sand and salt and the reasons for this. It was noted that the costs are difficult to compare to previous years because the prices have risen each year and that each year has different weather related needs. Looked at the comparison of FY05 expenditures in FY08 prices. Noted that while the accounts have been overspent, there are potential savings realized in reduced sand use, less maintenance on vehicles, and not needing to hire a sweeper. An analysis will be done on miles driven and gallons of fuel used this year compared to last year. The Board decided to keep the status quo as there is nothing that can be done or changed this year to keep prices down.
7:55 Fire Chief and Highway Supt. Mike Smith entered the meeting.
Budget Hearing Fire
Department
Mike presented a level-funded FY09 budget. He noted that the Town Accountant and one of the firefighters is working on an Assistance to Firefighters grant. Discussed the firefighter’s incentive awards and if it needed to be raised. The Fire Chief’s stipend will also be explored for possible adjustment. It was suggested that the Fire Chief put into writing his policy for distributing the firefighter’s incentive awards. The budget hearing ended.
Highway Department
Discussed how the superintendent crafted his budget and how to project budget figures especially sand and salt and vehicle gas and oil.
Sand and Salt
Looked at FY05 sand and salt usage at FY08 prices. Discussed how to pay for overages in the sand and salt accounts. Noted that we are looking at 7% inflation rather than the usual 3%. Discussed running out of salt and sand and how to prevent that in the future. Mike will look into the possibility of setting up an emergency delivery system.
Highway Dept. Truck
Discussed the need to replace the 2001 highway truck. It was on a five-year replacement plan due in 2006, but it hasn’t been replaced.
9:00 Dave Gott, Jan, Dave Howland, and Ned left the meeting.
Salt Shed
Discussed the need to come up with an estimate to repair the salt shed. The possibility of building a second shed for sand or salt and paving near the shed were discussed. Mike will investigate the cost.
Job Descriptions
The updated Highway Dept. job descriptions and the process by which to rate them were discussed.
Landing Zone
The Board would like to know how the landing zone fits into the town’s emergency plan. The plan should note that the landing zone is maintained by the town, that no parking is allowed there, and that it will be plowed based on availability. The Emergency Management Director will be asked to incorporate the landing zone into the town’s emergency plan.
The Highway Budget Hearing will be next Tuesday.
9:35 Mike left the meeting.
New Business
·
March 18 School Information Meeting
- Discussed the topics to be discussed at the meeting. Noted that it was
important for residents to hear the bottom line on an independent
· Proposed Warrant Article for the Annual Town Meeting – received a request from a Heath citizen to put an article on the warrant resolving to call for the decommissioning of the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant. The Board noted that it was not within their purview and requested that it be submitted by citizen petition.
Old Business
· Discussed how to rate recently revised job descriptions.
· Discussed Board of Health matters and individual Board members meeting one on one with members of the BOH.
Mail Review
· Reviewed e-mail from Planning Board chair regarding last night’s public hearing on the zoning bylaw amendment to include mobile homes in Mohawk Estates.
· Received a letter from a Charlemont resident requesting that the Selectboards of Heath, Hawley, and Charlemont look into having the state take over care of the bridges on Route 8A.
· Letter from a former Heath Firefighter thanking the Board for sending him a certificate of appreciation for his service.
· Letter from the Mass Association of School Committees, Inc. (MASC) noting that School Committee member Emily Cross has been accredited by the MASC by way of successfully attending the MASC Academy of School Leadership.
·
Invitation to Sen. Stan Rosenburg’s
Annual Municipal Conference to be held April 5 in
Documents and
Warrants were signed.
Next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m., Tuesday, March 11, 2008.
Adjourned at 9:53 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Gloria Fisher, Town Coordinator
MEETING
MINUTES
Town of
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
February 19, 2008
Called to order at 7:08 p.m. by Tom Lively with Brian De Vriese and Sheila Litchfield present. Also present Town Coordinator Gloria Fisher, Accountant Tracey Baronas, and Liz Fitzpatrick, West County News.
Agenda was reviewed
with no changes.
Annual Performance
Review of Town Accountant
Annual Performance Review held with Town Accountant. The job description was reviewed and some changes were made. Objectives and goals for the coming year were discussed. Tracey was commended for her good work.
7:18 – 7:26 Jeff Simmons, Ned Wolf, and Dave Gott entered the meeting.
Budget Hearing
Accountant
The Accountant presented her proposed FY 09 budget. There was discussion held regarding purchasing new accounting software. The accounting software presently used will be supported until June 30, 2009. New accounting software will need to be purchased prior to that date when a new computer will also need to be purchased. Also discussed was the Accountant’s proposal to add $12,500 to her budget for an audit. General accounting practices suggest an audit every three years. It was suggested to create an audit account into which money would be placed for a number of fiscal years until there was enough money budgeted for an audit. The budget hearing ended.
7:28 Tracey left the meeting and Tax Collector Elizabeth Nichols entered the meeting.
Budget Hearing
– Tax Collector
The Tax Collector presented her proposed FY09 budget. Discussed the proposed purchase by the Assessors of a new assessing software program. The Tax Collector mentioned her concern of compatibility issues between her software and the proposed assessing software. The Board will meet with the Assessors next week and invited the Tax Collector to that meeting.
7:45 Jeff Simmons, Dave Gott, and Ned Wolf left the meeting.
Annual Performance
Review – Tax Collector
The Tax Collector’s job description was reviewed with no changes. Discussed the procedure for setting the property tax rate and suggested holding a meeting with the Accountant, Assessors, Town Clerk, and Tax Collector to formulate timelines. The Tax Collector’s performance was reviewed and Betty was commended for the manner in which she interacts with the taxpayers. Objectives were set for the coming year.
8:10 Betty left the meeting.
Mail Review
·
Invitation to attend a Broadband Forum for Western Massachusetts
on Saturday, March 1, in
· Memo from the Franklin County Solid Waste Management District with 2007 recycling results. FCSWMD Executive Director Jan Ameen offered to meet with the Board to discuss Heath’s low recycling rate. The Town Coordinator will contact her to set up a meeting.
· Copy of the proposed Zoning Bylaw changes regarding Mobile Homes in Mohawk Estates. The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on March 3, 7:00 p.m., in the Town Hall meeting room.
· Copy of an e-mail from FRCOG Health Agent Glen Ayers to the Board of Health with regard to the proposed bylaw change to allow mobile homes in Mohawk Estates.
· Memo from Kopelman and Paige re: Solid Waste Flow Control Laws.
·
Notice of a
· Minutes from the Franklin County Cooperative Inspection Program’s annual budget meeting.
·
Notice from the Mass DOR of the
· Notice from Covanta that the FY09 Tip Fee will increase by the percentage increase of the average consumer price index, which they cannot predict at this time, but was .8 in 2007.
· Memo from Kopelman and Paige re: Recent Developments in Land Use Law.
· Received from the Library Trustees the Employee Performance Reviews for the Library Director and the Library Assistant. Both reviews were favorable and included objectives for the coming year.
· Received the Franklin Regional Council of Governments (FRCOG) FY09 budget advisory notice.
· Notice of a Streamlined Local Permitting Workshop offered by the FRCOG.
· Application for Employment received for the Highway Dept.
· FCSWMD’s FY09 budget and town assessments received.
· Received the minutes of the Charlemont ambulance meeting.
· Notice of a STAM meeting to be held on Thursday, February 28, at noon in Hadley.
Town Coordinator
Report
· Website Update – reported on changes and alterations
· Elevators – noted problem with elevator phones not working has been resolved.
· Ambulance Grant – research has been done and shared with the Charlemont BOS
· Salary Survey – compiled using the same eight towns as last year for comparison. Decided to replace Leverett with New Salem. Town Coordinator will redo survey.
· Salt and Sand – recalculated sand and salt usage and compared to FY05 usage and prices. The Town Coordinator will put it into a spreadsheet.
Old Business
· Discussed and revised the school surveys. The changes will be made and e-mail to the Board for their approval.
· Letter to Legislators will be e-mail to Emily and Brian will bring home a copy for Pam.
New Business
· Post Office – noted that the U.S. Postal Service received the town’s request for an increase in rent and responded, through the Charlemont Post Office Manager, that revenues for the Heath Post Office did not cover the expenses.
· Discussed the need to repair the salt shed. It will be added to the FY09 budget.
· Reviewed Highway Dept.’s proposed Standard Operating Procedures.
·
Board of Health – discussed that fact that the majority of the Board of
Health members are new to their positions and how the BOS can help them.
Decided that the BOS will meet one on one with the BOH members to discuss how
things are going. Brian will meet with Jeff Simmons; Tom will meet with
10:40 Liz Fitzpatrick left the meeting
Documents and
Warrants were signed.
Minutes
Brian moved to approve the minutes of January 29, 2008, as amended. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
Brian moved to adjourn. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
Next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m., Tuesday, February 26, 2008.
Adjourned at 11:04 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Gloria Fisher, Town Coordinator
MEETING
MINUTES
Town of
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
January 29, 2008
Called to order at 7:02 p.m. by Tom Lively with Sheila
Litchfield present. Also present Town Coordinator Gloria Fisher, Planning Board
Chair Deborah Phillips, and Liz Fitzpatrick,
Agenda was reviewed with Fire Dept. Honor Roll added to old business, and Rep. Turner’s Request and Town Coordinator performance review added to new business.
Mobile Homes Zoning
Bylaw Change
Deborah noted that three Heath citizens had approached the
Planning Board with a request to amend the zoning bylaws to include allowing
mobile homes in Mohawk Estates. Discussed the possible impact
to Town services, the definition of a mobile home (manufactured home), lot size
requirements and the necessity to define such, and the life span of a mobile
home. Also discussed whether to mandate that all
mobile homes in town be owner-occupied and if they should be allowed by special
permit.
7:25 Lorena Loubsky Lonergan entered the meeting.
The Board discussed their intention to look at whether any town-owned property can be used for a cell tower.
7:48 Deborah left the meeting.
School Survey
Discussed the draft survey that Lorena had put together to
poll the town with regard to how the
8:47 Lorena and Liz left the meeting.
Mail Review
· Memorandum from Kopelman and Paige re: Licensing of Massage Therapists.
· Notice from the state regarding notifying them of the name of Heath’s Veteran Services Officer. A letter will be sent notifying them that Dennis Peters is Heath’s Veteran Services Officer.
· Copy of a letter sent to the Board of Health by a Heath resident noting that she received a camper/trailer permit application and that she does not have a camper/trailer.
· Letter from the Buckland
Select Board inviting the Heath Board to a meeting on March 6 to discuss the
legislation allowing continued use of Mass. School Building Authority (MSBA)
reimbursement for a closed school. Rep. Denis Guyer
is expected to attend. Tom will attend. Discussed school closing issues and the
need to make a list of talking points including noting when the last time the
Foundation budget was adjusted for inflation and if there had ever been a
situation with MSBA similar to that in which we find ourselves now. Rep. Bosley
and Sen. Downing will be invited to meet with the Board to discuss school
issues sometime after the March 18 meeting at the
· Notice from the Franklin Regional Council of Governments of a meeting to discuss the Pioneer Valley Clean Energy Plan. Brian moved to endorse the plan and sign the memorandum of agreement. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous and the memorandum was signed.
· Notice from National Grid the New England Power Company has scheduled vegetation management treatments in Heath. The Conservation Commission will be asked to study this matter.
· CD received from Mass Municipal Association on revenue sharing.
· Fair Housing Now newsletter was received.
· Reviewed the MIIA proposal to lower Heath’s insurance costs by 5% for the next two years and to continue to purchase insurance from MIIA. Brian moved to accept and sign the proposal. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous and the proposal was signed.
Town Coordinator
Report
· Discussed the proposed purchase by the Charlemont BOS of a new ambulance and the meeting the town coordinator attended to discuss this. There is the possibility of getting a grant from FEMA to fund most of the cost of the ambulance. The Board recommended that $15,000 be placed on the annual town meeting warrant for a part of Heath’s share of a new ambulance.
· Noted that new Town Nurse Donna Weber had started and has been working with the Town Coordinator to fill out paperwork and to introduce her to the systems the town uses.
· Discussed the ongoing updating of Heath’s website. Agendas and rules of order will be put on the website.
Annual Performance
Review of Town Coordinator
Job descriptions were amended slightly to include each person’s job grade. The job evaluation form was revised slightly. Held annual performance review of the Town Coordinator. Objectives for the coming year were discussed. The Board expressed their satisfaction with the job the Town Coordinator is doing.
New Business
· The Office Assistant will be asked to retype the older Town bylaws so that all the bylaws may be incorporated into one binder.
· Discussed Rep. Turner’s request to obtain financial data regarding the how each town’s share of the school budget has either increased or decreased with the Governor’s FY09 budget. Tom prepared the data to send him noting that Heath’s share of Chapter 70 money would decrease .24%.
· Discussed the letter being prepared to send to our legislators regarding SPED funding. Heath’s school committee members will bring it to the whole school committee.
· Discussed the plaque to honor former Heath Volunteer Fire Department chiefs and those firemen with 25 or more years of service.
Brian moved to sign a loan renewal for the 2005 International truck. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
Documents and
Warrants were signed.
Minutes
Brian moved to approve the minutes of January 22, 2008, as submitted. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
Brian moved to adjourn. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
Next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m., Tuesday, February 12, 2008.
Adjourned at 10:54 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Gloria Fisher, Town Coordinator
MEETING
MINUTES
Town of
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
January 22, 2008
Called to order at 7:03 p.m. by Tom Lively with Brian De Vriese and Sheila Litchfield present. Also present Town Coordinator Gloria Fisher.
Agenda was reviewed with note made that the appointment with the Town Accountant has been postponed.
The Board reviewed the third draft of a letter to state and federal legislators regarding increasing SPED funding. Discussed changes from the first two drafts.
7:25
Mail Review
· Notice received from the Town Accountant advising the Board that the winter accounts may need to be overspent and asking for a vote to do so. Brian moved to overspend the winter snow and ice accounts as necessary. Sheila seconded. Vote was unanimous.
· Letter of resignation from the Conservation Commission received from Becki Finn. Brian moved to accept Becki’s resignation with regret. Sheila seconded. Vote was unanimous.
· Facsimile of a dividend check from insurance company MIIA in the amount of $380. The Board, following MIIA’s suggestion, agreed that the $380 will be used as a insurance premium credit.
7:48 Finance Committee members Dave Howland, Ned Wolf, Jan Carr, and Dave
Gott entered the meeting.
SPED Letter to Legislators
Discussed the third draft of a letter to legislators regarding increasing SPED funding. Dave Howland provided background information on the history of Special Education funding and how he arrived at the figures he used in the letter. Although the letter was well written, well thought out, and fact filled, it was decided that there was a need to make it especially clear what we’re asking for and to be more specific in our requests. Discussed Heath’s School Committee members bringing the letter to the full School Committee. A fourth draft will written for review. Also discussed Heath’s School Committee members bringing the letter to the MTRSD Superintendent and Special Education Director for their support.
8:07 Jonathan Diamond entered the meeting.
8:18
After discussion, the Finance Committee voted to overspend the winter snow and ice accounts as necessary. Discussed the Charlemont Ambulance meeting to be held on January 28. Discussed the ratio of debt to revenue and what percent of the annual budget is spent on debt.
8:50 Dave Howland, Jan Carr, Ned Wolf, and Dave Gott left the meeting.
Town Coordinator
Report
· Trenching Regulations – noted that the FCCIP will issue permits and enforce the regulations.
· Discussed the Berkshire Connect and Pioneer Valley Connect’s regional broadband survey and how it will be distributed. Notices will be placed around town and the survey will be available at the library and the transfer station as well as a link to it on the Town’s website.
· Noted that the person asked to fill a vacancy on the Conservation Commission has declined.
Old Business
· Three-town Landfill – discussed testing of the abutter’s well. The Town Coordinator will contact Charlemont’s Executive Secretary for an update.
· Whittemore Spring – the water is ready to be tested. The Board of Health will be notified.
· Snowplow Policy – Discussed minor changes and adding a policy for private snow plows as well as noting which roads were major roads.
· It was noted that there should be a copy of the Town’s bylaws readily available in the Town Hall Office. The Town Coordinator will speak with the Town Clerk.
Documents Signed – primary election warrant and letter
Warrants were signed.
Minutes
Brian moved to approve the minutes of January 15, 2008, as submitted. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
Brian moved to adjourn. Sheila seconded. The vote was unanimous.
Next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m., Tuesday, January 29, 2008.
Adjourned at 9:38 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Gloria Fisher, Town Coordinator
MEETING
MINUTES
Town of
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
Sawyer Hall
January 15, 2008
Called to order at 7:01 p.m. by Tom Lively with Sheila
Litchfield present. Also present Town Coordinator Gloria Fisher and Liz
Fitzpatrick,
Agenda was reviewed with generators, landing zone, and snowplowing policy added to old business.
Mail Review
· E-mail from Dave Howland informing the Board that he will not be running for re-election to the Finance Committee. The Board expressed their regrets at this decision and lauded Dave for the work he has done for the town.
· Copy and CD of Franklin Regional Council of Governments (FRCOG) 2007 Regional Transportation Plan.
· Notice from the FRCOG that Paul Swem has been awarded the contract as the Regional IT Consultant.
· Receipt from the Dept. of Revenue that Heath’s Pro Forma Recapitulation form has been reviewed and approved. Discussed the process of setting the property tax rate. It was decided to hold a yearly meeting with the Finance Committee, the Tax Collector, the Accountant, the Town Clerk, and the Board of Assessors to set a schedule and make a timeline for the processes involved in setting the property tax rate.
· E-mail from Emergency Management Director Tim Lively providing information on the January 8 Regional Emergency Planning Committee.
· Invitation from Dial /SELF Teen Services to the Board to participate in the Franklin County Youth Services Roundtable on January 25.
· Request from Jonathan Diamond to change the March 11 school information meeting due to scheduling conflicts. After discussion it was decided to hold the meeting on March 18.
· E-mail message from Sheila Litchfield regarding the Heath Fire Department Fire Association annual dinner on February 3.
· E-mail message from Lorena Loubsky-Lonergan re: information on PILOT schools.
· Memo from the Board of Health recommending hiring Donna Weber as the Town Nurse. Sheila moved to appoint Donna Weber as the Town Nurse. The position is for seven hours per week, with up to three extra hours per week dependent on grant funding. The rate of pay will be $20.00 per hour with yearly appointment at the start of each fiscal year. Tom seconded. The vote was unanimous.
· Invitation from the FRCOG for
the Town of
· Received the
· Dog complaint and report from Dog Officer received.
7:30
7:35 Brian De Vriese entered the meeting.
Annual performance review of the Post Office Manager.
Objectives for the coming year were discussed.
Annual performance review of the Chief of Police.
Objectives for the coming year were discussed. Discussed the
new police cruiser, mutual aid agreement with Charlemont, and how the past year
has been.
8:22
Town Coordinator
Report
· Fire Dept. Inspecti