November 3, 2009 Minutes

TOWN OF PITTSFIELD
BOARD OF SELECTMAN
TOWN HALL, 85 MAIN STREET
PITTSFIELD, NH 03263
_____________________________________________________________

MEETING MINUTES OF TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2009

CALL TO ORDER

Call to order at 5:31 P.M., by Linda Small, Chairman.

MEMBERS PRESENT

Linda Small (LS), Chairman, Ed Vien (EV), Vice-Chairman, Larry Konopka (LK), Denise Morin (DM), Fred Hast (FH), Paul Skowron (PS), Town Administrator, and Delores Fritz, Recording Secretary.

MEMBERS ABSENT

None.

PUBLIC INPUT

None.

AGENDA REVIEW

(PS) Bond Public Hearing, November 17th; (FH) Food Pantry Update; (EV) DRA WWTP Update, Change of Locks – 1 Fayette Street.

BUDGET REVIEW

5:30 P.M. – Library

Library (4550)

Rosa Benoit, Dana Sansome, Syliva Wallace and Mary Schelble were present.

(PS) I will share with the Board that Ms. Wallace did send me two proposed Warrant Articles which will be discussed at the next meeting of the BOS. One is for an expendable trust of $25,000 for replacement of windows and one is for updating the Library automation process. Ms. Wallace noted that this second one will not be going forward.

(LS) Have you gotten any estimates for the windows? Ms. Wallace noted they are in the process of doing this. One is pending a written estimate and the other one is to be accomplished next week. Both have been recommended by other Towns and are within a small range with each other as far as costs. She also noted that some of the windows will require storms, but only for those that can be opened. (LS) noted that it would have been beneficial if Board had this prior to Board’s review of budget.

Rosa Benoit offered a slide presentation of the past and present history of the Josiah Carpenter Library along with the proposed budget for 2010.

Board agreed they would address this later in the meeting.

Library representatives left at 5:50 P.M.

Parks and Recreation (4520)

A representative from Parks and Recreation was not present at this time.

NEW BUSINESS
ACTION ITEMS

12. Purchase Request/Drug and Alcohol Coalition

Sarah Sadowski, Pittsfield Community Coalition Coordinator & Prevention Specialist was present and along with Denise Morin itemized the grant program costs for NH Charitable Grant including various software, health teaching supplies, speakers, video, graduation supplies, fatal vision goggles, and information relating to Teen Institute scholarship.

Ms. Sadowski noted that some of the projected programs are seasonal and would be offered at the applicable time. Plans for the entire grant of $5,000 have been noted.

Board noted that they would address this later in the meeting.

APPOINTMENTS

6:05 P.M. Jim Spaulding – TTG Environmental/WWTF Grant Projects Summary

Mr. Spaulding supplied an outline of the Wastewater Project Status including Chlorination/Dechlorination Facilities, Infiltration/Inflow Study and GIS Development, Joy Street and South Main Street Pumping Stations, and Control Building Rehabilitation. He explained the funding issues in relation to Rural Development and the possible eligibility for ARRA monies for projects and how and if possible portions of the projected projects could be combined. He noted that before any funding is sought that an estimate should be accomplished of the work needed.

(PS) noted that these are projects which Town has been talking about for a long time and now is the time to do something about them. (RV) noted that Town has been waiting for two years for the Permit. (LS) Are there going to be any other “surprises?” I would not want to spend money that we do not have. Mr. Spaulding assured her that to the best of his knowledge, there would be no additional surprises.

Mr. Spaudling left at 6:37 P.M.

BUDGET REVIEW CONTINUED

Parks and Recreation (4520)

Nick Abell appeared relating that Kathy Boudreau has stepped down and he is now the Interim Chairman.

Board discussed with Mr. Abell training, Red Cross fees, revenues from the pool including swimming lessons, admissions and concessions, lighting at Dustin Park, telephone, and electrical issues and costs.

Board agreed they would address this later in the meeting.

Board and Mr. Abell briefly discussed the re-construction of the pillars at the pavilion and noted they are in the process of getting some quotes and it will be probably be accomplished next Spring. He noted that the damage was not as dire as once thought.

Mr. Abell left at 6:58 P.M.

Break at 6:59 P.M. Return at 7:07 P.M.

(LK) Motion to go into Non-Public Session per RSA 91-A:3 II (a). (EV) Second. Carried 5-0. Individual members of the Board were polled and all agreed.

Board went into Non-Public Session at 7:08 P.M.

(DM) Motion to seal the Non-Public Session Minutes of November 3, 2009.
(EV) Second. Carried 4-1 (FH).

BUDGET – CONTINUED:

Library (4550):

Board agreed that the Library does great work but the increase in salaries would be an issue since the Board has deemed not to increase any salaries except those covered by union negotiations. Library has suggested an increase by four hours of public opening time. Board agreed that they could not support the increase in hours at this time because of budget restraints.

After detailed investigation of the budget, Board agreed that they would approve the Library budget at $64,267.

(LS) Motion to approve Library budget for 2010 for $64,267. (DM) Second. Carried 4-1 (FH).

Parks & Recreation (4520):

Board discussed in length the proposed budget for 2010 for Parks and Recreation and ultimately agreed:

(EV) Motion to approve Line 287 for $700. (DM) Second. Carried 5-0.

(DM) Motion to approve Line 288 as proposed. (FH) Second. Carried 5-0.

(DM) Motion to approve Line 289 as proposed. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

(EV) Motion to approve Line 290 for $150. (DM) Second. Carried 4-1 (FH).

(DM) Motion to approve Line 291 as proposed. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

(DM) Motion to approve Line 292 as proposed. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

(DM) Motion to approve Line 293 as proposed. (EV) Second. Carried 4-1 (FH).

(DM) Motion to approve Line 294 as proposed. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

(DM) Motion to approve Line 295 as proposed. (LK) Second. Carried 5-0.

(DM) Motion to approve Line 296 as proposed. (LK) Second. Carried 5-0.

(DM) Motion to approve Line 297 as proposed. (LK) Second.
After discussion, (DM) withdraw Motion and (LK) withdraw Second.

(FH) Motion to approve Line 297 for $750. (DM) Second. Carried 5-0.

(DM) Motion to approve Line 298 as proposed. (FH) Second.
After discussion: (DM) withdraw Motion and (FH) withdraw Second.

(DM) Motion to approve Line 298 for $600. (FH) Second.
Carried 3-2 (LS) & (LK).

(DM) Motion to approve Line 299 as proposed. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

(FH) Motion to approve Line 300 as proposed. (DM) Second. Carried 5-0.

(FH) Motion to approve Line 301 as proposed. (LK) Second. Carried 5-0.

Patriotic Purposes (Lines 303 & 304):

(LK) Motion to approve Line 303 for $750 and Line 304 for $3,500.
(DM) Second. Carried 5-0.

Capital Expenditures:

Board agreed these would be addressed at the meeting on November 17, 2009.

NEW BUSINESS: ACTION ITEMS CONTINUED:

1. Execution of Health Insurance Premium Agreement

(LK) Motion to approve Health Insurance Premium Agreement. (DM) Second. Carried 5-0.

19. Other

(EV) noted that there will be a public hearing on December 10th regarding the BCEP budget at the BCEP.

(DM) and (PS) related they would go through the all the proposed budget lines to make sure there are no missing lines.

2. Winter Parking – Town Hall

Board agreed that no winter parking should exist from November 1st to April 1st. However, it is noted that George is making up signs to be posted that note, “No Unauthorized Parking without Permit.” This will be tabled until signs have been posted.

3. Parks and Recreation Commission Appointment

Board is in receipt of application for appointment to Parks and Rec Committee. However, input from the committee will be requested as well as Police Department background check. (PS) to request. Tabled until this can be accomplished.

4. Oak Street Parking Lot

(FH) What are we charging now? (PS) $175. Board previously agreed that this would be re-addressed at the end of the calendar year. (PS) The bills have already been sent out for 2010. (PS) to check to locate the “Contract” agreement that was signed initially by renters.

5. Proposed Scope of Work-Zoning Ordinances Re-Write – CNHRPC

(FH) Motion to table this indefinitely. Motion fails because of lack of Second.

(LK) I know this is a lot of money, but it is money being spent to promote the Town. The Planning Board has tried for four years to do it but has been unsuccessful. The Master Plan will be out soon and the Planning Board and Zoning Board will be invited to PB meeting to review. Next year we can start working on the Zoning Ordinances but without professional help it will be difficult.

(EV) I have no problem with this, but I would like to see it go before the Planning Board first for a vote. I think it is a good thing. It needs professional help. I would like a vote from the Planning Board to show their support. (LK) It is the only way it is going to get done and now with the Master Plan completed, it can be. (DM) agreed that she would like to see approval by Planning Board also.
(PS) suggested that a greater specificity for deadlines by CNHRPC be noted within the text, if approved.

6. Emergency Management Director Resignation – Chief Wharem

(FH) Motion to approve resignation of Chief Wharem as Emergency Management Director. (LK) Second. Carried 5-0.

(LS) noted that Chief Wharem should be thanked for all he has done as Emergency Management Director. She questioned whether Town can “appoint someone else” (PS) noted that Board would have to appoint someone else to the position. Chief Johnson will be present at the November 17th meeting and it will be discussed at that time.

7. Letter of Support – Silas St. James

(LS) noted that it was great that his students come to the BOS meeting regarding Town government. Would this an ongoing expense every single year? It was noted that this is a grant and a one-time cost. Board agreed that they are supportive of this grant and (PS) to draft letter accordingly.

8. Welfare Lien – Tax Map R22, Lot 31

(FH) Motion to approve Welfare Lien – Tax Map R22, Lot 31. (DM) Second. Carried 5-0.

9. Code Enforcement/Building Inspector

(FH) noted that he thinks Building Inspector should be going to school regarding code enforcement. He explained his reasons why this effort should be accomplished. “He needs some education” along these lines. (LS) suggested (FH) offer definite insights into what type of educating BI would require and get back to Board for review. It is noted that anyone with code enforcement issues should put information in writing and submit to Town Administrator.

(FH) questioned why BI was required to be present regarding a minor incident which occurred on Saturday. (LK) This was something that the Fire Department and Police Department felt was necessary and “I commend them for working together and getting the incident cleared up.”

10. Recovering Court Costs Question

(PS) As noted in the E-Mail from Laura Spector, the appeal with AHG has been resolved. The question remains, “Do you want her to move forward to recover costs for copying, printing,” etc.?

(FH) Motion to approve having Laura Spector move forward to recover costs for copying, printing, and etc. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

11. Request by Chief Wharem to Meet with the Board

Board agreed to meet with Chief Wharem at the Board of Selectman meeting on November 17th.

12. Purchase Request/Drug and Alcohol Coalition

(EV) Motion to approve purchase request for Drug and Alcohol Coalition grant for $5,000. (LK) Second. Carried 4-0 (DM) Abstain.

13. Reimbursement Worksheet/Emergency Public Health Drill

(FH) Motion to approve reimbursement as noted for Emergency Public Health Drill and authorize Chairman to sign. (DM) Second. Carried 5-0.

14. Street Numbering Agreements – 911

(LS) We need to talk to Chief Johnson about this as there are some significant issues that need to be addressed. (PS) Cara has been working with the Chief and some of this does not make sense. (LS) They (representative from the Bureau of Emergency Communications) would help us to fix these things and they should be invited to next BOS meeting. Chief Johnson will be here at that time.

15. Intent to Excavate – Tax Map R23, Lot 2

(DM) Motion to approve Intent to Excavate – Tax Map R23, Lot 2. (FH) Second. After Discussion: Carried 5-0.

Discussion: (EV) There should be a certain plan for the pit. (FH) This started as a development. (PS) You do not have a basis for refusal. Our responsibility is to approve Intent, cc it to the State and that is what triggers the inspection. (LS) I think that we should follow (PS) recommendations. (PS) The State is pretty thorough in their inspections.

16. Abatement of Taxes – Tax Map U3, Lot 7 (Former Timco Property)

(FH) Motion to approve abatement of taxes Tax Map U3, Lot 7. (DM) Second. Carried 5-0.

17. Bond Issue – Public Hearing November 17, 2009.

(LK) Motion to approve Public Hearing on November 17, 2009 at 6:15 P.M. regarding bond issue. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

18. Keys – One Fayette Street

(EV) I would like the Board to consider refunding the cost of the changing of the locks and keys for One Fayette Street ($320.) Sometimes, spending $300. to get the amount of taxes paid is a good thing. The owner has done well by Town since he owned it by allowing Youth Baseball to park there and has donated use for other things. It would show good faith on our part. (LK) I would go along with your request if you feel that strongly about it. (LS) I do also; to build a good relationship would be a good gesture. (FH) By giving him $320? (EV) Pittsfield has a reputation of being anti-business.

(EV) Motion to refund $320 to owner of One Fayette Street for changing of the locks and keys. (LK) Second. Carried 4-1 (FH).

INFORMATION ITEMS

1. WWTP Certificate

(EV) The WWTP has received a Certificate of Recognition from the ERA regarding DMRQA29.

2. Food Pantry Update

(FH) offered an update regarding the Food Pantry supplies for October noting that towards the early part of the month they had spent some monies because of low supplies, but recently has acquire 2,6000 lbs. of food and their shelves are currently full. Christmas “basket time” is coming up and we will be participating in that.

3. Suggestion Box Note

A note was left in the Suggestion Box at the Town Hall: “Larry, the floors look great.” /s/: Paul.

OLD BUSINESS

Town Hall Improvements, Sidewalk Improvement Plan, Capital Improvement Program, Health Officer, LGC Job Descriptions, Selectmen/Town Administrator Goals and Objective, and Firefighter/EMS Cross Training are all pending.

APPLICATIONS AND WARRANTS

None.

CHECKS AND MANIFESTS

(DM) Motion to approve Accounts Payable and Checks Manifest. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

(DM) Motion to approve Payroll and Direct Deposit. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

MINUTES

1. Public Session Minutes of October 20, 2009

(LK) Motion to approve Public Session Minutes of October 20, 2009.
(EV) Second. Two word errors were noted. Carried 5-0.

2. Public Session Minutes of October 27, 2009

(FH) Motion to approve Public Session Minutes of October 27, 2009. (DM) Second. It is noted that several errors were contained within the text on Page 7, Paragraph 2. Carried 5-0.

3. Non-Public Session Minutes of October 20, 2009

(DM) Motion to approve Non-Public Session Minutes of October 20, 2009.
(EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

4. Non-Public Session Minutes of October 27, 2009

(EV) Motion to approve Non-Public Session Minutes of October 27, 2009.
(DM) Second. Carried 5-0.

PUBLIC INPUT

None.

NON-PUBLIC SESSION

Non-public Session was conducted earlier in the meeting at which time all necessary matters were addressed.

ADJOURNMENT

(EV) Motion to adjourn. (LK) Second. Carried 5-0.

Meeting adjourned at 9:50 P.M.

Approved: November 17, 2009

_____________________________ _______________________
Linda Small, Chairman Date

I hereby certify that these Minutes were recorded on November 3, 2009 and publicly posted on November 5, 2009.

________________________________________
Delores A. Fritz, Recording Secretary

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