SEPTEMBER 22, 2009 Minutes

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

MEETING MINUTES OF TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2009

CALL TO ORDER

Call to order at 5:30 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

Dan Schroth noted that he is aware it is the beginning of budget season but had some thoughts he wanted Board to know. Americans are averaging about 32 hours a week these days and things are not going to get better until the working population goes back to 40 hours a week. It was a little different a year ago. The country has doubled its borrowing capacity. Medicaid will be broke by 2015 and when the Government stops sending checks out for this it is going to be trouble. Tell people who want a raise that they are lucky they are working. Here it is a year later and things are getting worse. Some people are working 6-8 hours per week. No one should ask for a raise. I had to lower my rates by 30% to get the jobs. People are not doing a lot of new projects. Make it a priority – no new raises. I just wanted to remind you of that.

Ted Mitchell noted that he was tired of looking at the landscaping around the Town Hall and other public buildings which could be so much better. I would like to start at the Town Hall and then Police Department as well as the Senior Center and rearrange and make it look a lot better. (DM) Are you volunteering your time and the plants? Mr. Mitchell answered in the affirmative. (EV) requested that he present something indicating the changes before he does it and Mr. Mitchell agreed.

Tim Ryan noted that there had been some recent complaints about his roosters and the noise associated with them. I now know I am not supposed to have farm animals as my neighbors are complaining about the noise. I want to file an exception so I can have animals – chickens and roosters.

I also have been contacted about the cars in my yard as an eyesore. He noted they are demolition cars and explained that these same neighbors may be complaining about the cars. I have talked to Anne Taylor and I need more time. He related that he is out of Town on a periodic basis and will come in and see BI to fill out the paperwork for Special Exception.

AGENDA REVIEW

BUDGET REVIEW

5:30 p.m. Building Inspector (4240)

(LS) noted that she wanted to remind everyone that Kyle is “my brother-in-law and if you would like me to step down I will.”

Board began a discussion on the amount of hours it would be applicable for Kyle to work and that some of the tasks he is responsible for are not really Building Inspector tasks.

(LS) decided at this juncture to recuse herself and was seated in the audience.

Board ultimately decided that 24 hours per week would be an appropriate amount of time to work on a weekly basis.

(DM) Motion to approve Line 193 at $30,000 for budget year 2010. (LK) Second. Carried 4-0.

(LS) returned and was seated on the Board.

(DM) Motion to approve Line 197 at $200 for budget year 2010. (LS) Second. Carried 4-1 (FH).

(DM) Motion to approve Line 198 at $150.00 for budget year 2010. (FH) Second. Carried 5-0.

(LK) Motion to approve Line 199 at $400.00 for budget year 2010. (DM) Second. Carried 4-1 (FH).

(LK) Motion to approve Line 200 for budget year 2010. (LS) Second.
Carried 5-0.

(FH) Motion to approve Line 201 for budget year 2010. (LK) Second.
Carried 5-0.

(FH) Motion to approve Line 203 for budget year 2010. (LK) Second.
Carried 5-0.

Housing Standards (4241)

Board briefly discussed the proposed increases in some of the Housing Standards budget for 2010 but ultimately decided to readdress it after the Public Hearing on increase of fees. Fred Okrent explained that if the fees increase does not pass, then the projected budget will revert to its prior status.

APPOINTMENT

6:10 P.M.: Kevin Kennedy – Congregational Church

Mr. Stan Bailey, Chairman of Trustees of First Congregational Church of Pittsfield was present to request some input on potential tax exempt property they would like to purchase for use as a parsonage. He explained that prior to purchase they would like to know whether it would be applicable for tax exempt status.

(LS) related that there are some necessary forms that would need to be completed before consideration can be given for this status. (PS) noted that this determination would be driven by State Statutes as to this qualification for property. (PS) related to Board that he had Cara run a list of other properties that are tax exempt due to religious nature for their review. Since there are previous taxes pending on the property, these would be levied at the time of the closing and the owner would be responsible for payment.

Mr. Bailey left at 6:22 P.M. Board took a short break at 6:23 P.M. Resumed at 6:27 P.M.

NEW BUSINESS
ACTION ITEMS

1. Annual Contract for Dumpsters

Board began to discuss this contract for dumpsters. It was noted that $89. a month is paid for the swimming pool dumpster even though pool is only open about four months a year. Board briefly returned to reviewing budgets. After approving Conservation budget, discussion resume on the annual contract for dumpsters.

(PS) noted that if the contracts are accepted, that it would be a fixed price for the next three years.

(DM) Motion to approve annual contract for dumpsters. (LK) Second.
Carried 3-2 (FH) and (EV).

Board continued to review budgets resuming with Conservation Budget.

BUDGET REVIEW CONTINUED

Conservation (4611)

(FH) Motion to approve 2010 budget as presented. (LK) Second. Carried 5-0.

Emergency Management (4290)

(DM) Motion to approve Line 206 for $500 for 2010 budget. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

Animal Control (4414)

(DM) Motion to approve Line 272 and Line 274 as presented, Line 273 for $400,
Line 275 for $300 and Line 276 for $400 for 2010 budget. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

Police (4210)

Chief Wharem reviewed with the Board the proposed budget for 2010. He explained his rationale regarding the line items. Board related that the proposed budget is quite high and (LS) offered some decreases she felt might be applicable.
(LK) This year there is an increase in this budget of $79,000. Do you see any way that this can be cut? Chief related that there has been an increase in calls in 2009 from 7,200 to 7,600 and it is only September. (LK) Due to economy, taxpayers cannot afford any more. Chief Wharem: To cut the Police Department when calls are so high, I am concerned with sliding backwards resulting in safety issues. (LS) Outside of union contracts, what can we do on this budget? Chief: Any major cutting would result in cutting services.

Chief Wharem noted that Balloon Rally detail should be separate from the Police Budget. Board discussed making it a separate line item. Police details in general should depict all related overhead which should go in this same line such as Medicare, retirement, etc. (LS) If it does not show all overhead that it would not be accurate. Board requested a special report of expenditures and expenses in relation to details.

Some line item cuts were suggested including overtime to $45,000. Chief noted that it would be difficult but doable. (LS) I noticed that overtime was down last week. Keep up the good work. A Board member stated that they were thinking of not funding a position. Chief: I do not think that would be the right move, but you have got to do what you have to do. (LS) We can cut the overtime line as long as we continue keeping overtime down as we are talking about individual positions being taken out… If shift is vacant, then leave it vacant.

(FH) noted that Town should take a hard look at acquiring a holding cell so police officers do not have to travel so often.

(PS) reminded Board that there is still no figure for health insurance. This will probably be mid-October.

(LS) Bob, can you scrutinize budget until the health insurance rates come in.

OTHER

Resignation – Emergency Management Director:

(PS) There are a few other things Board would like to discuss with you. You have requested Board accept your resignation as Emergency Management Director. He related that he had reviewed the Statutes and provided copies to the Board. (LS) asked (PS) who normally holds such a position in other communities. (PS) responded that in his experience it is often the Police or Fire Chief except for larger communities.

Chief Wharem related that after discussion with his family and his own thoughts that he needs to focus more on the Police Department rather than volunteer position. Over the years, it has become an increasingly more demanding job. I do not like the Board thinking that as Police Chief I am not putting my best foot forward. I want to do a better job for the Town and that position takes an awful lot of time. My focus needs to be the Police Department as that is where my loyalties are. By resigning from that position, I can do a better job in one by leave the other.
(FH) explained that years ago it was a lot easier but others have resigned because of those reasons as the Emergency Management Director position has become an increasingly time consuming position. (LK) Bob, I would hate to see you leave that position because of all your knowledge. Chief noted that the positions held by various other towns Emergency Management Director are varied from varied.

Chief Wharem related that he “would like the Board and myself to put all difference aside and work together to overcome these obstacles that exist. By not getting along with each other, it is not productive.” (LS) assured him that it was not a personality matter. (LS) “I do not feel comfortable about what is being done and I have to be accountable to the people of Pittsfield.” I think by putting it back on a professional level we can address the issues that need to be addressed. Communication is number one. Chief related that his primary goal is to be Chief of Police and I want to move forward.

(DM) “You truly have done a great job with the position.” Do we hear a reconsideration on your request? Chief: I will reconsider.

(DM) Motion to not accept the resignation of Chief Robert Wharem as Emergency Management Director. (LK) Second. Carried 5-0.

Deerfield Fair:

Chief Wharem: The Deerfield Fair Association has requested that Pittsfield PD participate in detail at the rate of $30.00 per hour plus an administration fee of $8.66. The fair begins next weekend so this is something that needs to be addressed on a fairly quickly basis. (PS) noted that Chief and he had different opinions on this as the detail rate per the contract is not negotiable ($32.00 per hour). No cruisers would be involved and Worker’s Compensation is covered by Fair Association. Chief related that he would obtain written authorization from those officers participating on the detail rate.

(LK) Motion to approve detail for Deerfield Fair Association for Chief Wharem and other officers and agree with contract provided as long as there is no conflict by participating officers. Authorization to sign contract is granted. (DM) Second. Carried 5-0.
Balloon Rally:

Chief Wharem explained that there is monies for this purpose being expended which is not available. (LS) Let’s look at it at the end of the year. Chief: We should not be doing it that way.

Police Department Change of Hours:

Chief Wharem: Deb Gauthier changed her hours during the summer which was beneficial. I am requesting Board change business hours at the Police Department to 7:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

(DM) Motion to change Police Department business hours from 7:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday except holidays. (FH) Second. Carried 5-0.

(DM) Motion to approve Deb Gauthier schedule be changed to 7:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., Monday through Friday except holidays, with half hour lunch. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0. (PS) to send letter advising of shift change to Deb Gauthier.

Police Department Computer/Copier:

(PS) noted that Cara and he had looked at the computer and copier at the PD and have contacted three companies to come in and evaluate the printer there and at Town Hall. Thoughts were that current copier at Town Hall would be switched to Police Department if new one is purchased.

Capital Outlay:

Chief noted that he would have only one capital outlay which would be for $15,000 for cruiser purchase, if necessary.

Break at 8:57 P.M. Board resumed at 9:05 P. M.

NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED

2. DOT Municipal Work Zone Agreement

(EV) Motion to approve the DOT Municipal Work Zone Agreement. (DM) Second. Carried 5-0.

3. Welfare Lien Map U-03, Lot 63

(EV) Motion to approve Welfare Lien Map U-03, Lot 63. (FH) Second. Carried 5-0

4. Welfare Lien Map R14, Lot 20

(EV) Motion to approve Welfare lien Map R14, Lot 20. (FH) Second. Carried 5-0.

5. Transfer Request Re: Ambulance Billing

(LK) Motion to approve transfer $517.7l from Ambulance R&E Fund to General Fund. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

6. Boermeester Property

(EV) noted that he had discussed this with Liz who had discussed with Mr. Boermeester who is still liable for property. Mr. Boermeester noted he might be interested in signing property over to Town instead of via tax deed. If this happens, Town could auction or sell property. (PS) related a title search may need to occur if this happens which would have to be assumed by Town.
(PS) to proceed with this.

7. Employee Request for Change in work Hours (PD)

See above.

8. BOS to Sign Application for State Highway Aid and Vote to Encumber Funds

(PS) Application is completed. This is appended to the Highway Block Grant line item which is the only place Town had flexibility to encumber the funds. (PS) related he had discussed with George and he understands the situation. There is only $37,488.07 remaining in this line item.

(LK) Motion to approve the Application for State Highway Aid. (DM) Second. Carried 5-0.

(LK) Motion to encumber the $33,333.34 from Highway Block Grant line. (DM) Second. Carried 5-0.

(PS) It may be determined that this is not our responsibility and perhaps, Fred can help us with that.

9. BOS to Address Pennichuck Rate Case

(PS) noted that he had discussed this with Laura Spector reaffirming assurance that Pittsfield Aqueduct be separated from the “North country systems.”

(FH) Motion to allow public and private hydrant users rate be reduced back to the rates prior to the PUC action resulting in a refund of payments made by the Town based upon the temporary rates that were in effect. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

10. Intent to Cut – Map R06, Lot 7-1

(DM) Motion to approve Intent to Cut – Map R06, Lot 7-1. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

11. Emergency Management Director Pending Resignation

See above.

INFORMATION ITEMS

1. Proposed Revision to the Septage Guidelines

(PS) I have not scheduled Ron Vien to be here tonight concerning this. A time to review these Guidelines will be scheduled. (EV) At a quick glance, it should be noted that fees should be sent to the Town Hall rather than the WWTP directly. (PS) agreed and noted that would be discussed at the time of the review.

2. BOS Absence

(LS) noted she would not be here on October 6th.

3. DRED Grant

(EV) The EDC has been approved for the DRED Grant in the amount of $1,500. A check for $1,350 has been received.

4. WIFI

(EV) noted that half of the advertising spots had been sold ($240.00 x 5) and they will be sending out a second series of letters on this. There is a $1,500 grant which will cover the cost of the WIFI to the Town.

5. Revitilization Tax Grant

(EV) This has been approved by the State for Pittsfield.

6. Hunter Education

(EV) There is to be a Hunter Education program at the American Legion on several dates in October (7, 9, 10, 14, 16, & 17) at the American Legion and pit shooting range. The class can accommodate 35 people and so far 10 have signed up.

7. Ambulance Billing and Collections

(FH) Do we have any additional information on this? Pending.

8. Attorney Fees

(FH) I would like to have a copy of the attorney fees regarding Jim Pritchard and Town and also the cost of Union negotiations attorney fees. (PS) Cara has calculated the fees and I will get them to Bill Miskoe and the Board.

9. Grants – Windows

(DM) noted that she is waiting for an estimate which Kyle is pursuing.

10. Gas Credit Card

(FH) requested any new information on acquiring this card. (PS) Cara has completed the application and we are waiting for approval. (FH) noted that the cost per gallon is dropping. I know the Board agreed to review next April. If the charges drop, we should go back to the lowest one.

11. Planning Board Update

(LK) We had a workshop on Roles and Responsibilities last week and it was a very educational class. It opened my eyes on a lot of things. It was noted that Master Plan should be update before PB can update the Zoning Ordinances. I have talked to Ralph Odell and he is about ready to come before the Board with this. I hope that next year we can update the Zoning Ordinances.

(LK) Dina will be out for the next meeting. Matt Monahan has advised he will be meeting with Dee and Kyle on the process soon.

12. Application for Sale of Wholesale Vehicles

(FH) An application has been submitted to sell wholesale vehicles. (EV) Kyle is following up on this

OLD BUSINESS

No Old Business was addressed at the Board meeting.

APPLICATIONS AND WARRANTS

None.

CHECKS AND MANIFESTS

(DM) Motion to approve Accounts Payable and Check 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 September 15, 2009

(EV) Motion to approve Public Session Minutes of September 15, 2009. (DM) Second.

Discussion: (LS) On Pages 8 & 9, I have read this through and I think there are areas that are confusing. I would like to table this till next week. (PS) to work with Dee on changes.

(EV) Withdraw Motion to approve Minutes of September 15, 2009. (DM) Withdraw Second.

PUBLIC INPUT

Ted Mitchell related that the last Planning Board meeting was organized and under control. He noted that liked the way the Zoning Board meetings were run and was very impressed with them. He offers an opportunity for all to speak and sticks to the issue. That is the way the Planning Board should run by sticking to the issue.
(LK) agreed and noted he would focus on that with the Planning Board Chair.

NON-PUBLIC SESSION

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

Board went into Non-Public Session at 10:02 P.M.

Board returned to Public Session at 10:14 P.M.

(LK) Motion to seal the Non-Public Session Minutes of September 22, 2009. (EV) Second. Carried 5-0.

ADJOURNMENT

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

Meeting adjourned at 10:18 P.M.

Approved: September 29, 2009

____________________________ ________________________
Linda Small, Chairman Date

IV Tapes

I hereby certify that these Minutes were recorded on September 22, 2009 and publicly posted on September 24, 2009.

_______________________________________
Delores A. Fritz, Recording Secretary