Meeting Minutes
April 23, 2007
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; St. Patrick’s Parish Center.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
6:45 PM: Old Town Hall Committee members Joel Hotchkiss and Bob Salerno update the Board on Committee activities and issue a report.
An application has been submitted to the State Historical Commission to place the Town Hall on the State Historic properties listing.
Joel states that the Commission’s intent is to preserve the building with an eye towards using the 2nd floor for display of historic items other community events and displays. The first floor could be leased out as commercial space. He notes that the Planning Board has been studying changing the downtown zoning to include the Town Hall in the commercial district – presently it is zoned residential. Joel speaks about fund raising to defray the cost of conversion/renovation.
Bob Salerno says that the Committee’s intent is to restore the building to its original town use. Bob acknowledges that there are hurdles to be crossed, not the least of which are financial.
MK points out that there are several legal, handicap and building code issues that need to be addressed. Once town offices vacate the building, any subsequent use would fall under a “change of use” and would trigger a full upgrade of the structure.
Bob mentions the Lenox Academy as an example of a town owned building which is leased out to commercial tenants. It is suggested that one of the first calls the Committee should make is to the State Building Inspector to find out exactly what degree of renovation needs to take place to suit the Committee’s vision.
Bob and Joel agree that more investigation has to be done. Board thanks the Committee for their presentation.
Other Items: Joel Hotchkiss presents the Board with his plan to open a small café at his place of business – Hotchkiss Mobiles. He has reviewed his plans with the Board of Health Inspector and the Zoning Enforcement Officer. He asks if there are any additional or missing steps that he must take. CW notes that he will have to obtain a sign permit if he plans to add a sign.
7:20 PM: Board reviews and signs the Annual Town Meeting warrant. Board reviews an opinion from Town Counsel that rules the Voter Petition Articles seeking to retain the Chief of Police and to honor his current contract as out of order. A copy of the opinion has been furnished to the Town Moderator.
Board reviews work progress at the Village School. Board discusses a number of items including: 4-24-07 job-site meeting; mix-up with Whiteway payment; sewer/water lines placement; bathrooms wall; additional work.
Board reviews a report on the Shaker Mill Dam Inspection done by Haley and Aldrich engineers as required by the Dept. of Conservation and Recreation.
Board reviews a letter from Peter Niles of MassHighway suggesting a meeting on 4-30-07 to discuss the downtown reconstruction project. Board decides to postpone the meeting until soon after the Annual Town Meeting to allow for more notice to concerned parties. Board discusses tabling Article 33 of the Annual Town Meeting warrant which asks for $14,000 for the next engineering phase of this project. This appropriation may be premature until more is found out from MassHighway.
Board reviews a Public Hearing Notice announcing a request for a water rate hike from Housatonic Water Company. Several West Stockbridge residents are served by this private company. Individual customers have been notified.
Board approves a request from Chief of Police Karl Cooper to appoint part-time Officer Robert Carter. Mr. Carter has all of the required training and qualifications. TSC makes a motion to appoint. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Board reads a letter from Librarian Leslie Meltzer who is resigning to take a new position in Gt. Barrington. Board wishes Leslie the best in her new job.
Board decides to instruct Town Counsel to speak with Chief Cooper’s attorney and have the two of them work out a date for a joint meeting between the Board and the Chief.
Following a conversation, Board agrees to solicit a quote from MEGA for FY 2008 property and casualty and professional liability insurance. MEGA has just entered the P&C field. The Town’s current carrier is MIIA.
MK reiterates his support for a new fire truck to replace the 1974 Pumper but he would like to speak with the Town’s financial advisor first on how best to structure the purchase. The option of leasing the vehicle may be a good idea but needs to be fleshed out first. The same practical approach needs to be taken with this purchase as with all other major purchases or projects.
8:10 PM: There being no additional business before the Board, CW makes a motion to adjourn. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_____________________ _____________________ _______________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
April 9, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; St. Patrick’s Parish Center.
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). Berkshire Record present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
6:45 PM: Conservation Commission Co-Chair John Masiero presents new ConsCom By-law proposal which the Commission requests be placed on the Annual Town Meeting warrant for consideration.
John explains that the proposed By-law will strengthen the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act. The By-law is modeled after language from the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions and has been adopted by several Massachusetts communities and has received approval by the Attorney General in those communities.
John explains that the By-law will improve the ConsCom’s ability to do their job. John sites the recent Silver Mine development where this new By-law could have been helpful. There are some gaps in the current rules that would be closed by adoption. John notes that 2 Public Hearings will be held before the Annual Town Meeting to answer questions and concerns.
Following additional general discussion, CW makes a motion to place the By-law article on the Annual Town Meeting warrant as presented. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
7:15 PM: Norwin Rehm, representing the Council on Aging, presents a grant opportunity to the Board for the purchase of a new COA van. Norwin explains that the van is getting old and needs to be considered for replacement. The van is shared with Richmond and Richmond is considering joining the BRTA and, if so, would be getting a new van from that organization.
Norwin pledges $5,000 from COA gift account funds towards the local share obligation (20% of total cost of approximately $50,000). There is a total of $9,900 in the gift account.
MK notes that the Board has been discussing replacing the van in prior meetings and that this grant might well be a good opportunity. Following a discussion, the Board agrees to submit an application for the new van. The pre-application is due May 4. Norwin and the AA will work together on the application.
7:40 PM: Alan Thiel and Fire Chief Peter Skorput address the Board about the need for a new Fire Truck. Chief Skorput had raised the need at previous meetings. Alan presents a leasing scheme for the estimated purchase cost of $350,000. He doesn’t have all the details but states that leasing is an acceptable option to borrowing or bonding for the purchase. Alan and the Chief hope to place an article on the Annual Town Meeting warrant to purchase the truck.
CW notes that the Finance Committee is in the process of drafting a Town Capital Plan and a new fire truck needs to be a consideration in that plan.
MK noting the several hurdles that need to be crossed before a warrant article can be drafted, including: FinCom review and approval, bond counsel review, Financial Advisor review, and review or any lease proposal by Town Counsel. MK states that the Board would investigate the process as quickly as possible but that it was getting awfully close to Town Meeting. MK reiterates the Board’s support for the purchase of a new truck to replace the old one but he would like a little more time to review the information. Tonight is the first time this type of financing scheme has been seen by the Board.
Other
Items:
Board reviews a letter sent by Mr. Collatsos of Richmond. He claims that he hit a pothole on Swamp Road and caused damage to his car. A repair bill was included with the letter and he asked that the Town reimburse him for damages. MK advises that the letter be forwarded to Town Counsel for an opinion on liability. MK notes that the Town may be heading down a slippery slope by agreeing to pay for damages.
TSC informs the Board about a Birch Hill Rd. resident who can’t get any satisfaction from the company hired by Verizon to conduct tree trimming around Town. The company left a mess on his property. It is suggested that Norm Taft of MassElectric be contacted. Tree Warden Bill Kie has been informed of the situation.
Board receives and accepts a letter from Kristany Skorput stating her immediate resignation as Manager of the West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club. The Club officers had previously been supplied with a Change of Manager application. To date, it has not been returned to the Town for processing. Board instructs AA to contact the ABCC to determine the status of the Club liquor license when a Manager resigns.
Board approves a Special Permit for four wedding event dates at the Williamsville Inn.
Board receives a notice of receipt of Sewer Rate Relief Funds from the State in the amount of $5,004 as applied for under a grant program. This amount will be applied to the FY ’08 sewer debt.
Board has a general discussion about a bill turned in for repairs to an overhead door at the Fire Station. TSC asks why the bill was submitted under the “fire department” line item instead of “town buildings”. CW responds that a fire truck caused the damage and the bill was discussed with Chief Peter Skorput. CW notes that several items purchased for the Highway Garage are submitted under Highway Dept. expenses line items and not Town Buildings. TSC registers her objection to the bill be submitted under the fire dept. expenses line item.
8:10 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, TSC makes a motion to adjourn. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor (CW left the meeting at 7:45 PM to attend a Planning Board meeting at the Library).
Meeting minutes approved by:
_______________________ ______________________ _______________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: _____________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
March
5, 2007
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; St. Patrick’s Parish Center.
Quorum present: Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Michael Kirchner (MK) unable to attend. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and accepts previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Other Items: TSC and CW discuss whether the Town has an old by-lay regulating snow removal on Town sidewalks. It is noted that the majority of merchants do a great job of keeping their storefront sidewalks clear. But a few don’t make much of an effort and wait for the Highway Dept. to take care of shoveling. Because making the roads safe is the Department’s priority, sidewalks sometime have to wait a few days before being cleaned after a storm. CW thought that there might be a by-law, like other towns, that requires sidewalks to be cleaned by the abutters. TSC will research.
Board reviews suggested dates for a joint meeting as submitted by the FinCom. Board tentatively sets Friday, 3-16 at 4:30.
ConsCom has scheduled a hearing continuation on 3-15-07 at 7:00 PM for aquatic weed removal at Mill Pond.
Board reviews a request for an appropriation of $2,500 from Berkshire South Community Center. Board denies the request. Towns are not allowed to appropriate public funds to non-government organizations.
7:10 PM There being no additional business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_____________________________ ___________________________
Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: ___________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
February 26, 2007
6:30 PM:
Open
Meeting; St. Patrick’s
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC).
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
Other Items: Board reviews and approves a contract to purchase the Fire Rescue/Pumper Vehicle with Toyne, Inc. Toyne was the lowest responsive and responsible bidder through a formal bid process. Fire Chief Peter Skorput recommended signing the contract with Toyne, Inc.
Board gives approval for
the SEA Engineers authored Project Need Form to be sent in to
MassHighway for
the purpose of soliciting grant funding for the reconstruction of the
It is noted that Town Accnt. Maryellen Brown is attempting to schedule a date with Jim Podolak of D.O.R. to come to Town so that they can work together on the Schedule A as they have done in previous years.
Joshua Morse has contacted the Board to be put on a future meeting agenda to discuss a Scout project.
7:45 PM: TSC makes a motion to go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing strategy related to a collective bargaining issue and to return to open session upon its completion. CW seconds the motion. Voice vote taken: MK, aye; CW, aye; TSC aye.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
8:20 PM: Board returns to open meeting session.
TSC makes a motion to reverse the Board’s vote of last June to not reappoint Chief of Police Karl Cooper as Chief.
There being no second, the motion dies.
MK instructs AA to contact Town Counsel for advice on how the Board should proceed.
Other
Items: AA informs the
Board that full-time Police
Officer Rosario Messina wanted to ask the Board if it would be possible
to
roll-forward his now earned 1-week vacation time to after he attends
the
Academy. Otherwise, he would have to use it during a 6-week window as
opposed
to a normal 6-month window. Because of the uniqueness of his situation,
the
Chief suggested that
8:29 PM: There being no additional business to come before the Board, CW makes a motion to adjourn. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting
minutes approved by:
______________________ _______________________ ________________________
Michael
Kirchner, Chair
Curt
Date: _____________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
February 21, 2007
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; St. Patrick’s Parish Center
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly payroll and vendor warrants.
Board reviews SEA proposal for submission of Project Needs Form request to MassHighway. Board will review the document this week prior to submittal.
Board receives and reviews a letter received from resident Cory Smith who claims that he and his employees are being given too much attention by the WSPD. He says that his truck drivers are being followed around by the WSPD. Board thanks Cory for his letter and for coming before the Board. The letter will be passed along to Chief Cooper.
Board reviews a letter from Rouge owners on Center St. about the bad condition of the Center St. sidewalks. CW admits that these and nearly all other sidewalks in Town are in need of repair. That’s why the Town is moving forward with downtown infrastructure reconstruction plans. The Highway Dept. made repairs to the Center St. sidewalk last year and will continue to make reasonable repairs - short of rebuilding, which is what it needs.
7:00 PM: Chief Peter Skorput addresses the Board regarding last week’s bid opening for the new fire rescue/pumper vehicle. The Chief has reviewed the two bids received and recommends that the bid be awarded to Toyne, Inc. Toyne is the low bidder at $191,900. Furthermore, the second bidder – American LaFrance – was unresponsive to all components of the bid request. TSC makes a motion to award the bid to Toyne, Inc. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Chief Skorput discusses the condition of the Department’s 1974 Pumper. It is old and in need of various repairs. The Chief is not confident that the vehicle will last much longer without major repairs and recommends that the Board replace the vehicle in the upcoming year. MK responds that the vehicle should be replaced as soon as possible but that the timing might not be optimal this coming year. The taxpayers will already be experiencing a big hit with the Village School project. Following further discussion, Board will take the Chief’s request under advisement. Peter will investigate the cost of repairs to keep the Pumper going.
7:15 PM: Card Lake Inn owners Mike and Ellen Greer discuss parking issues in the lot owned by the Inn next to the Town Hall. Ellen notes that the Inn takes care of maintaining and plowing the lot and it is used by Town Hall workers and others in Town. She doesn’t necessarily want to prohibit the Town from using the lot but she’d like a little consideration or cost sharing in exchange. MK notes that two MEMO’s have gone out to Town Hall employees and Board members. They are effective for a short period, but are soon ignored. Another MEMO will be distributed. CW notes that part of the problem will solve itself in about 6 months when the Town Hall is vacated and moved to the Village School.
It is suggested that a split rail or some other type of fence be erected at the limits of the parking lot ownership next to the Town Hall. The Town only owns about 12 feet out from the building into the parking lot.
CW offers to plow the parking lot in the future. The Greer’s thank CW and the Board.
Other Items: Board reads a letter from Cemetery Commissioner Stuart Kuller asking the Board to appoint Archibald Fadding, Jr. to the vacancy on the Cemetery Commission. TSC makes a motion to appoint Mr. Fadding. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
CW notes that there will be approximately $5,200 left over from the new Highway Truck borrowing. The auditors have said that the money can either be used to purchase some of the omitted options on the truck or seek Town Meeting approval to transfer the money for a similar purpose. The money cannot be closed out to free cash. Following a discussion, the Board recommends that CW use the surplus for some of the omitted options.
Board reviews a letter from the Natural Heritage Endangered Species Division of Mass Wildlife. The Department has given the green light to Lycott Environmental to conduct the chemical weed removal of Mill Pond in the spring. ConsCom has to be contacted to see what their pleasure is as far as finishing up the Public Hearing opened almost 2 years ago for this project.
MK wants the Board to convene an executive session at next week’s meeting to discuss strategy as it relates to certain contract negotiations. Board agrees.
7:57 PM: CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_____________________ _____________________ ______________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: _____________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
February 12, 2007
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; St. Patrick’s Parish Center
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
AA notes that Polson Electric has completed a test run and tutorial for staff on the new emergency generator at the Highway Garage/Fire Station. The generator was paid for from a $10,000 grant and an $8,000 town meeting appropriation.
MK wishes to set up a meeting on 2-27-07 @ 12:00 PM. at the Village School to discuss technology, the gymnasium and other outstanding items. Attendees should include: architect, project manager, technology consultant and Town.
Board reviews a printout of a schedule of house alarm calls received by the Police Dept. A discussion follows about billing policy for false alarms. AA to check with the Chief for a review.
7:00 PM: TSC makes a motion to close acceptance of bids for the Midi-Fire/Rescue vehicle as previously bid. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
MK opens the two bids received.
Toyne Firefighting Equipment: $191,900
American LaFrance: $199,974
Bids are turned over the Fire Chief Peter Skorput who will review them and make his recommendation to the Board at their next meeting.
7:15 PM: Jill Pixley and Joe Roy, Board members of Richmond West Stockbridge Community Health, address the Board about concerns of the financial health of the 80-year-old community health organization. Joe provides a letter (attached), which details the current state of affairs at Community Health.
Joe discusses the pressing competition facing the organization from Berkshire Health Systems and Lee Visiting Nurse Association. Revenue from referrals and Medicare reimbursements has fallen dramatically over the past several months. The organization has needed to dip into its reserves to sustain operations. Jill notes that a minimum of 10 cases a month is needed to keep the organization solvent. The past few months have seen an average of less than 6 per month. The organization may have to seek additional funding via annual appropriation from both Richmond and West Stockbridge.
Joe acknowledges that a main problem is that the community at large is not aware of the services offered by Richmond West Stockbridge Community Health. Patients in the hospital who need follow up home services must request Richmond/West Stockbridge specifically. Otherwise, one of the other two larger organizations will be assigned.
Joe says that his group will conduct a media campaign to raise public awareness of the organization and its plight.
MK and the Board agree to support the organization and will participate in future meetings with the Richmond/West Stockbridge Board and Richmond officials.
7:35 PM: There being no additional business to come before the Board, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
______________________ _______________________ ________________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: _______________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
February 7, 2007
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; St. Patrick’s Parish Center
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW). Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC) attending a conference. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
6:50 PM: Board of Assessors members Amy Butterworth and Jennifer Wilton address the Board about filling the current vacancy on the Board of Assessors. A joint vote of Boards of Assessors and Selectmen is required to fill a vacancy until the next scheduled election.
Amy Butterworth nominates Irene Skorput to fill the vacancy. Jennifer Wilton seconds nomination. Joint vote taken, 4-0 in favor.
Other Items: Board discusses joint budget meeting with the Finance Committee to review the FY 2008 budget. Two dates were discussed: February 28 and March 20. Following a discussion, it is decided to hold the meeting on March 20 because the budget process will not likely be far enough along to have a meaningful meeting at the end of February.
New Town Treasurer Karen Williams has voiced concerns about getting caught up the monthly bank reconciliations. Former Treasurer Bruce Turner has not reconciled accounts since June 30, 2006. Karen will do her best to get caught up in the next several weeks. However, a back-up plan to have the Town’s auditing firm on stand by to fix the problem is put in place.
The Senior Center grant will be submitted on February 16. AA has been working with program administrator Tom Webb to complete the application. Everything is in order.
Board reviews the criteria for a heavy truck exclusion on Swamp Road. One of the criteria - an available and acceptable alternative route - seems to be in place (State Highway Rte. 41). However, it seems unlikely that Swamp Road will meet the heavy commercial truck threshold of 5%-8% (total vehicle volume) required for a truck ban. A truck count has been formally requested for traffic count in the spring. Berkshire Regional Planning Commission conducts the traffic counts. A second count will be done on Main St. and will be utilized as the Town moves forward in securing funding for a Main St. reconstruction project.
Board asks AA to schedule a joint meeting for the end of February with the Technology Consultant, project architects and the project owner’s agent to discuss needs and layouts for the Village School project.
7:20 PM: There being no additional business to come before the Board, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Meeting
minutes approved by:
_______________________________ ______________________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton
Date: _______________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
January 29, 2007
6:30 PM: Open meeting; St. Patrick’s Parish
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
6:45 PM: Board has a general discussion following up on last week’s informational meeting on the SAFETEA grant for downtown/Main Street improvements. Present are Bernie Fallon, owner of the Public Market and Ed Sotille, owner of Queensboro Package Store. As a clarification to comments made at last week’s meeting, it is noted that a primary reason why diagonal parking allowed in Stockbridge and partial diagonal parking allowed in Lee is because neither Town used federal grant money for their projects. The proposed funding for the West Stockbridge project is 70%/30% federal/state. Accordingly, the federal share may have strings attached regarding traffic safety and parking.
MK states that his focus is on getting outside funding for a Main St. project, not parking patterns. TSC asks that the Board review the PNF application before SEA submits the documents. Board agrees and will inform SEA.
CW makes a motion to instruct SEA to submit a PNF to the State for the West Stockbridge project in time to be considered at next month’s MHD quarterly review meeting. The project will be submitted as ‘a full-depth reclamation of Main Street along with new sidewalks, curbing, drainage improvements and amenities. Parking layouts are not discussed at this initial stage. Main St. parking will be discussed and negotiated as the design phase moves along. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
7:15 PM: Lenox Rd. resident John Pons addresses the Board about Town assessing methodology and practices used by the elected Board of Assessors. Mr. Pons reads a letter that details his objections to how his and other properties are assessed. Mr. Pons points out that two of the Assessors are related to two of the Selectmen. Mr. Pons states that he has written numerous letters to editors about assessing policy. Mr. Pons states that he has written several letters to the Board of Assessors that have gone unanswered. Mr. Pons states that he has never had more than a cursory inspection of the interior of his property since he purchased the house in the 1960’s. Mr. Pons questions why his assessment could have risen so much in the last few years when no one has come inside to grade the condition. Mr. Pons describes the structural deficiencies of his house and the messy property that abuts him to the rear. Mr. Pons shows the Board several photos of his property and the neighbor’s property.
MK states that, while the Board is sympathetic to Mr. Pon’s concerns, the Selectmen have no authority over the elected Board of Assessors or their assessing policies. However, MK suggests to Mr. Pons that, from what has been described, that Mr. Pons might consider filing for an abatement. CW notes that the filing period ends in a few days. MK tells Mr. Pons that he will get an application in his hands before the filing deadline.
Mr. Pons then discusses the Swamp Road/Main St./Lenox Rd. intersection and how it the design was poorly planned and executed. He also states that the wall in front of his house sits on Town property and should be removed by the Town. Finally, he states that the sidewalks on Lenox Rd. are steep and in disrepair.
7:50 PM: Other business:
TSC notes that Bob Powell, representing the Parks and Recreation Committee would like to meet with the Board to discuss an overall plan for recreation and grounds uses at the Village School. TSC also notes that the following people wish to be appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission: Curtis Thierling, Michaela Thierling, Tina Bardwell, Ed Robbins and David Eddy. MK suggests that Mr. Powell supply a comprehensive list of Commission members to act on when they meet.
CW presents a driveway permit application for Chris Williams, Gt. Barrington Road. Following a review, the Board approves.
It is noted that the annual audit has begun. Four staffers from Scanlon Assoc. are in the Town Hall today and should be done in 3 or 4 days.
8:10 PM: There being no additional business to come before the Board, TSC makes a motion to adjourn. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_______________________ _______________________ _______________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: __________________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
January 22, 2007
6:00 PM: Open Meeting; St. Patrick’s Parish
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC).
6:00 PM: MK opens Public Hearing to act on an application to transfer the Public Market all-alcoholic beverage liquor license from Michael Skorput to Bernard Fallon. TSC reads the legal notice as appeared in the Berkshire Eagle.
MK asks if there is any public comment. There being none and no discussion by the Board, MK closes the public hearing. TSC makes a motion to approve the transfer. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor. The application will be sent to the ABCC for action.
6:10 PM: Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Board has a general discussion about adjusting the work schedule at the Village School in order to keep the asbestos abatement contractor on site in order to be able to move right into the gymnasium instead of waiting until later in the project. AA to contact the general contractor and discuss alternate scheduling.
MK reads a letter received from the Massachusetts Inspector General recognizing Administrative Assistant Mark Webber’s recent successful completion of a 3-day Public Contracting Law seminar.
TSC is appointed federal census liaison.
6:30 PM: MK opens the Public Hearing for the purpose of discussing the upcoming Senior Center grant. MK turns the meeting over to grant coordinator Tom Webb who reads the public notice as appeared in the Berkshire Eagle. The three topics to be discussed are the Senior Center project application to DHCD, the Community Development Strategy and a Senior Home Repair grant.
Mr. Webb would like to include a Home Repair grant component with the Senior Center grant. There appears to be enough funding available to add this component (approximately $30,000), which would provide for handyman services for small home repair projects for the elderly. Board thinks that this would be a great idea and would like to see it included if funding allows.
Mr. Webb has a general discussion about the application timeline and application components, including the Community Development Strategy.
The Board had reviewed the Community Development strategy at previous meetings and no additional changes or corrections are made. The Board reiterates its position that a new Senior Center will be an integral component of the new town center currently being developed at the former Village School. In addition to the Senior Center, this site will house a new Police Station, Library, Town Offices, gymnasium and recreational fields and facilities.
Clark and Green architect Steve McAllister, the designer of the Senior Center, speaks about the changes from previous designs and grant submissions. The project has been made more affordable because the Town has assumed many of the infrastructure costs of a Senior Center. The current conversion of the Village School into a town hall and library will provide for many of the costs that formerly had to be picked up by a Senior Center project, including: water and sewer upgrades, site work, plumbing and heating upgrades and fire protection. A cost analysis performed by Clark and Green indicates that the project will now come in under the maximum grant allowance. A year ago, the same Senior Center design was estimated to be well over the allowable grant amount and was not submitted.
Mr. Webb states that the grant is due to be submitted on Feb. 16th and awards are expected to be announced in May ’07.
Mr. Webb added that letters of support from the Building Inspector, other Town Boards and the C.O.A. would be a helpful supplement to the application.
MK thanks Tom Webb and Steve McAllister for their presentation.
7:00 PM: MK opens the Public Informational Meeting regarding securing state/federal funding for the reconstruction of Main St. MK provides a background and history of events and the purpose of tonight’s meeting which is to provide a public forum to discuss applying for state funding to reconstruct the Main St. and sidewalks.
MK introduces Paul Guertin and Bob Carter of SEA Associates. SEA has been contracted to submit a Project Needs Form (PNF) to the Massachusetts Highway Department for a full-depth reclamation and re-paving of Main St. The project would include new sidewalks, curbing and other amenities.
Mr. Carter discusses the process and states that he has been informed by the State that the Town must adopt parallel parking and abandon diagonal parking in order to receive grant funds. The available funding comes from the federal SAFETEA program. Studies have shown that parallel parking is safer than diagonal parking.
Mr. Carter sites 17 accident reports supplied by the West Stockbridge Police Dept. covering the past 3 years. Of these 17 accidents in the downtown area, 13 were attributed to diagonal parking. All accidents involved $1,000 or more in vehicle damage. A schematic sketch of the redesigned parking layout shows a net gain of 4-6 parking spots with parallel parking as opposed to the current diagonal. He states that the roadway is wide enough to accommodate parallel on each side of Main St. The estimated project cost is approximately $1.5 million.
A number of questions from the audience all concern the parallel versus diagonal parking. Several were in favor of keeping the parking the same. The following asked questions or made statements regarding the parking situation: Sandra Hotchkiss, Joel Hotchkiss, Joe Roy, Ann Roy, Gordon Soule, Bernie Fallon, Mike Skorput, Michael Greer, Randy and Sheila Thunfors.
In particular, Bernie Fallon, owner of Public Market, states that he has done some research and spoken with people at MassHighway on parallel versus diagonal parking. He has been told that switching to parallel parking is not absolute. Bernie suggests that the Town needs to be more persistent and work harder if it wants to keep diagonal parking. Both he and Ed Sotille, owner of Queensboro Package Store, state that they will lose business if customers are forced to parallel park. Not only will parking spaces be lost, people will drive on by because they don’t like to parallel park.
In response to a question, Mr. Guertin states that burying utilities is not an allowable cost under the SAFETEA funding program. In fact, his experience has shown that the cost of burying utilities can be almost as expensive as the roadway reconstruction itself.
The review board charged with acting on Project Need Forms meets next in March of 2007. Mr. Guertin suggests that the Town might consider submitting a request to meet the March deadline. Parking layouts don’t need to be formalized at this initial phase. Once MassHighway starts to review the request then a full discussion can take place about parking. If the Town waits until it reaches a consensus on parking then they might never submit a project request.
It is agreed that the Town and SEA will further investigate the funding rules on parking. No decisions on parking layout are made.
8:10 PM: MK thanks everyone for attending the informational meeting.
8:20 PM: Board has a discussion with Building Inspector Jim Vosburgh and Assistant Building Inspector Walt Potash regarding activity at the Shaker Mill Tavern. Jim Vosburgh assures the Board that all building permits are in place. Randy Thunfors, one of the owners of the property, adds that a recent Berkshire Record article was incorrect when it discussed future plans for the property. Mr. Thunfors understands that any changes to the current use of the property (restaurant downstairs and meeting rooms upstairs) would require an amendment to the current Special Permit on the property.
8:25 PM: Chris and Art Gennari ask the Board if any permitting is required in order to demolish the old Truck Stop on State Line Road. The property owners have asked the Gennari’s to take down the buildings because they are an eyesore and safety hazard. Soil remediation, due to past oil and gasoline spills related to the former use of the property, are ongoing and will not be disrupted. The Board recommends that the Gennari’s speak with the Building Inspector and obtain a Demolition Permit and to call Dig Safe before any work is done.
Other Items: AA informs the Board that Plumbing Inspector Peter Negrini wishes to donate his Plumbing Inspector fee of $230 for the Village School project to the Town. Board gladly accepts and thanks Peter for his generosity.
Board discusses the Village School building project. AA provides updates on: asbestos removal, temporary phone service, temp. electric service for Police trailer, and items for the Project Manager’s office.
AA informs the Board that FY 2008 Department Budget Request forms have been distributed and are due back on Feb. 16.
8:45 PM: There being no further business to come before the Board, TSC makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_____________________ ______________________ ________________________
Michael Kirchner Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: _____________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
January 8, 2007
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; St. Patrick’s Parish Center
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC).
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
6:35 PM: Chief of Police Cooper attends meeting and is asked by MK for an update on Rosario Messina’s Academy training. Chief says that Rosario has been enrolled and the class may start in March pending sufficient enrollment. If not in March, then the class would start as soon as enough people have enrolled. Rosario has taken his pre-physical. MK thanks the Chief for his update.
6:45 PM: Gordon Soule speaks to the Board about his concerns over an apparent increase in heavy truck traffic – including tractor trailers – on Swamp Rd. CW notes that the Swamp Road Bridge, now that it has been rebuilt, no longer has a posted weight limit. Any truck weight can pass over the bridge. The bridge used to be a deterrent but not anymore. The process for getting a commercial heavy truck exclusion was discussed. MassHighway grants exclusions only if several criteria can be met which include agreement among adjoining communities. AA will pass the criteria along to Mr. Soules and the matter will be re-addressed at a future Board meeting. The Board expresses their interest in seeking an exclusion.
Other items: MK discusses the corridor ceiling at Village School. EDM needs to be contacted to review whether the lumber used to support piping should be removed. If left, sprinklers may have to be installed both above and below the new suspended ceiling. AA has already contacted EDM on the matter.
Board has a general discussion on goings on at the recently sold Shaker Mill Tavern. Renovation and demolition works appears to have started and the Board is curious about the owner’s plans. Building Inspector Jim Vosburgh will be called in to a future meeting for an update.
Assessor Amy Butterworth speaks addresses the Board on the procedure to fill the vacancy on the Board of Assessors created by the conditional retirement of Irene Skorput. Following a discussion, it is decided to hold a joint meeting between the Selectmen and the Board of Assessors on Feb. 5 to vote on the Assessor’s recommendation.
TSC received a request from the Community Health Program to use the Town Library for programs. Board suggested that the request be referred to the Library Trustees.
TSC discusses the fine work done by Holly Hamilton, Cemetery Commissioner, and her family in cleaning up left over storm damage/debris at Town Cemeteries. The clean up was completed at a very reasonable fee. Board will send a thank you letter to Holly.
TSC discusses the need for a disclaimer to be put on local access cable TV channel 2. AA will write up a notice stating that programming does not reflect the opinion of the Selectmen and Town Boards. The content of programming is virtually unlimited and Town Officials may or may not agree with certain programs.
CW discusses a curb cut application from Joe Wilkinson on Rte. 41.
There will be a Village School job site meeting for the general contractor and sub-contractors on 1-15-07 at 10:00 AM.
Board sets a public hearing for 1-22-07 at 6:00 PM to consider an application for a liquor license transfer for the Public Market.
8:00 PM: There being to further business to come before the Board, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_____________________ ______________________ ________________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: ___________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
December 18, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; St. Patrick’s Parish Center
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Curt Wilton (CW) absent – working on a water main leak emergency.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Board has a discussion regarding a proposal for work in the Village School gymnasium. Work would include removal of the ceiling (with asbestos present), protection of the floor and removal of the stage ceiling (asbestos present). Board gives preliminary approval for the work as quoted by Whiteway construction but a Change Order for this work cannot be signed until the general construction contract is signed. That contract is currently being reviewed by Town Counsel.
Board calls for a Public Hearing to be held on January 22, 2007 at 6:30 PM at the St. Patrick’s Parish Center for the purpose of discussing the Senior Center project and grant application.
Board sets a tentative date of January 22, 2007 to hold an informational meeting to discuss the downtown improvement process. SEA Consultants will make a presentation for stakeholders. This meeting, following confirmation by SEA, would be held at 7:00 PM at the Parish Center.
Board discusses having Chief Cooper come to the next Selectmen’s meeting to discuss Department activities and the status of the full-time officer’s academy training.
MK discusses investigating asbestos in the adjoining bathrooms in the future library space. If, following investigation, asbestos is not found in the first bathroom then demolition should not take place in the adjoining bathroom since they were constructed at the same time and in the same way. EcoGenesis will be so informed.
The FY 2007 tax rate has been approved by DOR at $8.80/$1,000.
Board discusses beaver removal at Card Pond. It appears that beaver activity is taking place on both Town and adjoining private property. A trapper has been asked to take a look at the area.
7:30 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, TSC makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
________________________ ________________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: _____________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
December 11, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; St. Patrick’s Parish Center.
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Other Items: Bob Carter of SEA requests that an informational meeting be set up to present the downtown infrastructure improvement plans to the public. Following a discussion, the Board sets a date of January 8 at 7:00 PM. Board advises to send letters to downtown merchants and put an announcement in the Local Yokel.
Board has a general discussion about the current asbestos abatement project at the Village School. Also, the Board will consider updating kitchen facility and equipment further into the project if the budget allows.
Myron Ritrosky of EcoGenesis will hold and supervise asbestos abatement job project meetings at the Village School weekly beginning 12-20-06 at 10:00 AM.
CW discusses severe storm damage (12-1-06) resulting in many fallen trees, particularly in the Town cemeteries. CW commends Tree Warden Bill Kie for his quick and thorough response to the situation. CW notes that there are still a lot of fallen trees and branches in the cemeteries. CW advises the Board that The Cemetery Commissioners requested that the Highway Dept. clean up the trees when they could get to it. CW states that his Department really doesn’t have the time because he has switched over to winter activities. CW suggests writing a note to the Commissioners recommending that the Commissioners investigate ways to clean up the storm damage. It is noted that the Cemeteries and sensitive and important Town facilities and best efforts need to be made to keep them in good shape. Board agrees that Cemetery trees cannot always be the responsibility of the Highway Dept.
TSC asks if there is any update on the beaver problems at the Card Pond. One of the neighbors has expressed concern that beavers are cutting a lot of trees in the area. AA responds that a trapper has been contacted but no date has been confirmed for beaver removal.
MK speaks about an e-mail circulated to fellow Selectmen re: withholding pay due to Officer Carm Guarda for police details worked for the Town. MK states that MGL prohibits holding pay for any issue. TSC responds that she was acting in the best interest of the Town by holding back his pay because Carmen had Department equipment in his possession that belonged to the Town. MK states that the Board voted to grant Carmen a leave of absence; they did not release him. So, he was under no obligation to return his uniform and other items. CW agrees that TSC should not hold the check and confirms that there was a vote taken on the leave of absence issue. TSC took offense to the tone of the e-mail and reiterates that she was acting in the best interest of the Town. TSC notes that all items have since been returned and that Carmen’s pay has been released. MK states that unilateral Board decisions cannot be made. The Board needs to act as group not individually in order to avoid any perception of single Board members taking actions on behalf of the Board. TSC asks if she is allowed to conduct any Board business while in the Town Hall as Town Clerk. MK and CW agree that if Board inquiries come to Tina, then she should bring that information to the Board on behalf of the caller or suggest that the caller attend a meeting. Former Selectman Larry Tonini notes that in his corporate experience, it is not uncommon to withhold paychecks if the employee owes the company property. MK reiterates that MGL is clear on the subject.
8:15 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes
approved by:
_____________________ ______________________ _______________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: __________________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
December 4, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Based on interviews conducted at the previous Board meeting, TSC makes a motion to appoint Karen Williams as Town Treasurer to fill the vacancy created by Bruce Turner’s resignation. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0. MK abstains because he was unable to attend the interview sessions. Karen and Bruce will be contacted so that they can arrange for transition.
7:00 PM: MK opens the Annual Tax Classification Public Hearing and reads the legal notice as published in the Berkshire Eagle. Representing the Board of Assessors are Assessor Jennifer Wilton and Assessor ex-officio Irene Skorput. CW discloses that he is the spouse of Jennifer and, as such, will not participate in the Hearing.
Jennifer recommends a single tax rate be adopted as opposed to a split rate. TSC asks for a distinction between single and split tax rates. Jennifer explains that a single rate covers all property – personal, residential and commercial whereas a split rate has a different rate for commercial than for residential and personal. Typically, a commercial rate is higher. West Stockbridge does not have enough commercial property to justify a split rate. Furthermore, many commercial properties already pay a higher tax burden because they are assessed a personal property tax also.
TSC makes a motion for a joint Board vote to adopt a single tax rate. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor. MK closes the Public Hearing.
Jennifer and Irene inform the Board that building permit information is still not being passed along properly and timely to the Board of Assessors. Irene notes that the Assessors have asked Building Inspector Jim Vosburgh several times to see Certificates of Occupancy before final sign off and for more complete, timely and accurate building permit data. The Assessors are getting increasingly frustrated with the Building Inspector.
MK notes that Jim Vosburgh was put on notice a year ago to step up and improve the operation of his office. Apparently things haven’t improved measurably. Following a discussion, the Board agrees to call Jim into an upcoming meeting.
Irene notes that the Assessors plan to get the tax rate approved and bills sent prior to the end of December. MK thanks the Assessors.
7:25 PM: John Piasecki, resident of West Stockbridge and nominee to fill a vacancy on the Conservation Commission, introduces himself to the Board. Following on a 11-30-06 letter from the Conservation Commission in which the Commission notes a 5-0 vote to appoint Mr. Piasecki, TSC makes a motion to appoint Mr. Piasecki to fill the vacancy through June 30, 2007. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor; 8-0 in favor including the Commission’s previous vote.
7:30 PM: TSC reviews the timeline and legal steps required for Irene Skorput to be appointed to the vacancy on the Board of Assessors created by her own retirement. The vacancy will need to be advertised per Town Counsel. It is recommended that the Assessors be asked back to the December 18 weekly Board meeting for a general discussion.
TSC discusses an overdue bill owed to Berkshire Visitors Bureau. The bill is for a Town of West Stockbridge advertisement in the Bureau’s annual brochure. This ad was started a few years ago at the request of downtown merchants. Previously, it had been paid out of the Selectmen’s Expenses line item. It is agreed to pay the bill this year out of the same line item but to revisit how the bill should be paid prior to next year’s brochure.
TSC asks about progress on the Senior Center. AA responds that Clark and Green have been issued notice to proceed on altering their original documents to reflect the current construction project at the Village School. Tom Webb has also been in touch with Clark and Green and a Public Hearing to discuss the project is expected to be called in the next 2 weeks. The meeting would be hosted by Tom Webb.
TSC discusses a recent news article discussing grants available for Brownfields remediation and wondered if it might be an avenue to investigate for the Town’s old landfill. Board agrees that would be a great idea and instructs AA to follow up with CET who is the local administrator of the grant.
Other Items: CW discusses a curb-cut application from R. Klein on Cross Road. Following a review and a discussion on applicable street numbers, CW will refer the application back to Mr. Klein for clarification.
CW leads a general discussion about Merritt Way, a private way that was sometimes known as Harris Street extension. The owners of the Orient Express have concerns that customers and delivery drivers can’t find the restaurant and that the business is suffering because of the recent change in name. CW notes that Merritt Way is private property and that the whole matter has been reviewed with Town Counsel. Town Counsel has indicated that business owners would have a far stronger legal position in affecting a change to Merritt Way than the Town would if they can demonstrate a negative impact to their businesses.
Board reviews a letter from Amanda Busch requesting documents related to speed zone postings on Gt. Barrington Road. The Board instructs AA to respond to Ms. Busch and inform her that the Town does not, nor has ever, had such documents and suggest that she contact the State Highway Dept.
AA will be attending a 3-day classroom seminar in Boston next week on procurement law. Following successfully passing an exam, AA will become a Certified Procurement Officer.
AA provides an update on the Village School construction project including: efforts to get power and phone to the temporary Police office trailer; asbestos abatement project which has just begun; and removal/storage of furniture and other items from the school.
8:05 PM: There being no additional business to come before the Board, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
______________________ ______________________ ________________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: ___________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
November 27, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Curt Wilton (CW) and Tina Skorput Cooper. Michael Kirchner (MK) out of town on business trip. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board opens interviews with two candidates for Treasurer to replace Bruce Turner.
First candidate is Karen Williams of Stockbridge. Karen works as the Town Treasurer in Stockbridge. Karen gives the Board a background of her work experience and her current duties in Stockbridge. Karen uses the same municipal software in Stockbridge that W. Stockbridge currently uses. Karen says she is able to fit West Stockbridge’s needs into her current work schedule.
TSC and CW explain the Town’s needs and expectations for the position. Karen responds to a series of questions posed by the Board. Board thanks Karen for the interview and her interest in working for the Town. A decision will be made in the next week.
7:00 PM: The second Treasurer candidate is Terry Walker of Tolland. Terry currently works as the Town Accountant in Richmond and Middlefield. Terry goes through her relevant work history and she also is familiar with the same municipal software used in W. Stockbridge.
As with the first candidate, Terry responds to a series of questions asked by the Board. Terry also says that she can satisfy the Town’s expectations for a work schedule. Board thanks Terry for attending the interview and informs her that the Board expects to reach a decision in the next week.
Other Items: Board reviews information on the temporary office trailer to be ordered for the Police Department. Exact location of the trailer will have to be confirmed with the General Contractor to make sure it won’t be in the way during construction. Per discussions with Chief of Police Cooper, it was agreed that it would be less disruptive for the police to move their office during the upcoming construction rather than having contractors working in an active office.
TSC makes a motion to accept and sign a statement of population for the Town. This document is a new requirement from the Alcoholic Beverages Commission. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 to sign.
Board sets the Annual Tax Classification Hearing for December 4, 2006 at 7:00 PM.
Board discusses a dead tree complaint received from David Potter of Pixley Hill Road. The matter has been referred to Tree Warden Bill Kie.
CW shares a letter received from Judith Linscott of Gt. Barrington Rd. asking the Town to address a beaver problem behind her mother’s house adjacent to Card Pond. Board will determine on whose property – Town or private – the problem exists.
8:00 PM: There being no further business before the Board, CW makes a motion to adjourn. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
______________________ ________________________
Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: ______________
11/20 Missing
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
November 13, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants. TSC makes corrections to spellings for 2 poll workers. Note to be passed along to Town Accountant/Treasurer.
6:45 PM: MK reads the recommendation from EcoGenesis, the Town’s asbestos abatement consultant, to award the asbestos abatement contract to the low bidder – Abide Corporation. Following a discussion, TSC makes a motion to award the contract to Abide per recommendation. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
A tentative pre-construction meeting with Abide has been set for next Wednesday to discuss the project and mobilization. If a General Contractor is selected prior to next Wednesday, then the General Contractor will be asked to attend that meeting as well. AA notes that EcoGenesis is assisting with the drafting of a contract between the Town and Abide.
General Contractor bids will be opened and recorded on 11-17-06 at 1:00 PM.
Board has a general discussion about Filed sub-bids for the Village School project. Several bidders failed to submit complete packages for the 11-3-06-bid opening. On the advise of Town Counsel, incomplete bid packages were rejected. EDM has distributed a list of only the qualified filed sub-bid contractors along with their bid amounts.
7:00 PM: Board instructs AA to schedule Treasurer interviews for next week’s Selectmen’s meeting.
Board has a general discussion about the transformation of the Town Collector’s office when Eunice Panzeri ends her employment with the Town next May.
Board discusses a request from SEA Consultants to hold a public forum with downtown stakeholders to discuss the downtown improvements project. Board agrees that a public informational meeting would be a good idea, particularly to discuss changes in parking patterns on Main St. SEA should be prepared to discuss and make a presentation on the funding process, options, timelines, etc. AA will work on setting up a meeting.
CW will take care of changing light bulbs at the Village School.
TSC discusses the possibility of upgrading the kitchen in the Village School if General Contractor bids come in at or lower than estimated. Board tours kitchen and agrees that it should be considered for upgrading if project costs come in under estimates.
AA notes that he will be attending a Household Hazardous Waste Steering Committee meeting this Wednesday at 10:00 AM at the Lee Senior Center.
MK suggests drafting a letter of thanks to Peter Skorput for helping out with some unpleasant plumbing conditions during last Tuesday’s elections. Board agrees.
7:55 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, TSC makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
____________________ _____________________ _______________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: ____________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
October
16, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Chief of Police Karl Cooper introduces and recommends Tom Rubino to be appointed as a Part-time Police Officer. Chief Cooper presents Mr. Rubino’s training records and provides a background. Following a discussion, TSC makes a motion to approve Mr. Rubino’s nomination. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Chief Cooper furnishes training records for all Department Officers.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
7:00 PM: Public Hearing opens to consider a Change of Manager application for the Village Oven. The application seeks to replace William Boudreau with Anthony Swenson. The application is complete and there is no one present from the public to speak for or against the application. TSC makes a motion to approve the application for Change of Manager. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor. Public Hearing is closed.
7:10 PM: Treasurer Bruce Turner addresses the Board. Bruce recently turned in his letter of resignation as West Stockbridge Treasurer. Bruce acknowledges that he cannot devote the time required to do a proper job. Bruce apologizes for getting behind in the work and notes that he has had some trouble getting up to speed with the new software system. Bruce recommends that the Board consider combining the positions of Treasurer and Collector as is done in a number of communities. Board will debate that issue. MK thanks Bruce for coming in and talking with the Board. Bruce notes that he knows of two working Treasurers in nearby communities who may be interested in working in West Stockbridge.
Other Items: TSC passes along an item from Dog Officer John Springstube that Matt Merritt is upset with the Dog Officer for charging a kennel fee for Mr. Merritt’s stray dog that was picked up.
MK instructs AA to speak to Tom Webb, formerly of Berkshire Housing, about the need to go out to bid again for the grant administration portion of the Senior Center grant.
Finance Committee is meeting tomorrow evening. TSC and CW will attend.
AA notes that several water shut off notices have been sent for past due accounts. Services will be shut off next Monday if payment is not received.
Board reviews a list of fourteen letters recently sent to homeowners who lack a Certificate of Occupancy. The list was provided by the Building Inspector and the letters urging people to contact the Building Inspector to rectify the deficiency were sent in response to concerns raised by other Town Boards. Earlier in tonight’s meeting, Dominick Luchi dropped of a letter in response to the Selectmen’s Certificate of Occupancy letter.
Board reviews a letter from the Wine Merchants and Concerned Citizens for Safety lobby seeking support for a No vote on the November election ballot question #1. Board takes no action.
8:00 PM: There being no additional business, TSC makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ ______________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: _____________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
October 2, 2006
6:00 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
6:15 PM: Town Accountant Maryellen Brown, present at Board’s invitation, discusses the Treasurer’s Office operations and its impact on the overall Town financial team. Board and Town Accountant discuss requirements and expectations of the Town Treasurer position and the Board agrees to draft a letter to Town Treasurer Bruce Turner instructing him to respond to the Board with an office action plan in the next two weeks.
Resident Ralph LoCassio
asks the Board for an update on the abandoned Hill property on
Board reviews the
Board reviews a letter
from Carmen Morse who has requested using the
Board reviews a current salary survey of the Tax Collector position of like sized and budget communities. The survey indicates that West Stockbridge ($13,000) is slightly below the average of 19 surveyed communities ($14,435). Board agrees that it will propose an increase in the FY ’08 budget to get in line with the average. Tax Collector Eunice Panzeri has stated that she will not be seeking reelection next spring. The Board wishes to get the salary in line in order to attract as many candidates as possible.
7:00
PM: Tom
Webb, formerly of Berkshire
Housing, discusses the
Other Items: Board reviews and signs a driveway permit for Richard Klein.
Upon the recommendation of Chief of Police Karl Cooper, TSC makes a motion to appoint Eric Munson as a Part-time Police Officer. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Board approves a request from the Library Trustees to seek private donations as matching share to a State Library grant they are seeking to purchase new computers for the Library.
Board reviews a recent report on the Transfer Station as required by the DEP. The only item of note in the report is the need to post an emergency phone number at the facility.
Board schedules a Public Hearing for the Village Oven on October 16, 2006 to consider an application for a Change of Manager.
7:40 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, TSC makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_____________________ _____________________ _____________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair
Curt
Date: ______________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
September 25, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
6:40 PM: Chief Cooper speaks to the Board about part-time Police Officer Carmen Guarda. Chief states that he can’t have someone working for him who isn’t truthful. Carmen handed in a letter requesting an extended leave of absence from the Department citing differences with Chief Cooper. Following further discussion, CW makes a motion to accept Officer Guarda’s request. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-1 in favor.
MK begins a discussion about the non-appointment of Gt. Barrington Police officer Tim Hassett this past spring. MK wishes to set the record straight saying that the Board did not act on Officer Hassett’s appointment because his name was not submitted not because they refused to appoint him. AA states that in the absence of a list provided by the Chief, the previous year’s appointment list was used by the Board during their annual appointments. An additional Officer was added to the list the following week at the request of the Chief, but not Officer Hassett’s. CW notes that he was unhappy with whole process of appointing Officers this past year due to the uncertain status of the Chief’s employment with the Town.
CW asks about current staffing levels. Chief confirms that he will be able to staff the Department with 110 hours per week as previously agreed to. The Chief has a few interested part-time Officer candidates that he will be interviewing.
MK congratulates the Chief on his work leading up to and through the Josh Billings Race. Everything went very smoothly with no problems with traffic or participants. Chief says that he will use the same program next year because the bridge will still be just one lane.
Chief states that he hasn’t heard back yet from N. McCormick. The Chief has requested that Mr. McCormick come in for an interview to discuss his complaints about the Department and certain Officers.
MK reminds the Chief that all part-time Officers are required to have documented completion of mandated training by next week. Part-time Officers were appointed with the stipulation that all required training be completed in 90 days. Chief says that he will provide the documentation.
6:55 PM: Tina Bardwell discusses the scheduling of Trick or Treat and the Halloween Parade and party. This year, Halloween falls on a Tuesday and many parents can’t get home in time from work to get the kids ready for a 4 PM-6 PM Trick or Treat. CW says that he checked past year’s decisions on scheduling and that there was no consistency with the dates of the parade and Trick or Treat. TSC notes that the Parks and Recreation Committee discussed having the parade and party the Saturday before Halloween (10/28). It is difficult to ask volunteers to put a parade and party together on a weekday evening. Tina Bardwell would prefer to have both the party/parade and Trick or Treat on the same night. MK notes that most Towns don’t have a scheduling dilemma because they don’t host parades and parties. This Town does something special. Following further discussion, Board decides to hold Trick or Treat on Saturday, October 28th from 4-6 PM. Ms. Bardwell thanks the Board.
7:05 PM: Board discusses the Village School conversion project focusing on the impact of asbestos removal in the gymnasium. Alternatives, including installing a firewall between the gym and the rest of the building are discussed. It is decided to push the bid date timeline back one week in order to gather additional information from the State Building Inspector and EcoGenesis, the firm hired to facilitate the asbestos testing and abatement. MK notes that each time changes are made to the plans of date, the architect will charge an additional fee for those changes. A meeting between the State Building Inspector and EDM will be set up for this week at the site.
Other Items: Board reviews an opinion from Town Counsel stating that it would be fine to hold Selectmen’s meetings at the St. Patrick’s Rectory. This location and others are under consideration to hold Town Board meetings for the next 8 months or so because the Village School will be off limits during the construction project.
TSC notes that there will be an O.S.H.A. training seminar for Public Works employees this week at the Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club. CW notes that 2 of the Highway employees will already be attending classroom training this week on NIMS 200 and that the Department will be short-staffed.
TSC informs the Board that the Conservation Commission is seeking a new member to replace Ed Desaulniers who recently retired. Board agrees that it would be appropriate for the ConsCom to advertise for a new member.
Board discusses the Town Collector’s desire to find an Assistant Collector by the 1st of the year. Eunice does not plan to run for re-election next spring and would like to get an Assistant on Board who could be trained. It is understood that this person may or may not choose to run for election next spring. Eunice would appreciate the Selectmen helping to coordinate the process. Board will assist. It is noted that the Collector’s salary will probably have to be increased in order to come in line with like sized and budget communities in the region. Eunice has only taken marginal raises over the past many years and the position is comparatively underpaid.
TSC asks if Building Inspector Jim Vosburgh has compiled a completed list of homes currently occupied without a certificate of compliance issued by his office. AA responds that Jim has not yet turned one in. Board instructs AA to issue another letter to Jim.
AA notes that CET conducted an inspection of the Transfer Station today. A new State requirement mandates that qualified independent 3rd parties inspect all municipal transfer stations annually and furnish the report to DEP. This inspection will cost $300. Also, AA has had posters printed up for the “Stop Idling” campaign being promoted by Susan Silverman. CET will provide contacts names for engineering firms that may be able to assist the Town in discussing options for what might be done with the old Town landfill.
Board decides to meet on October 12th instead of Monday the 9th because of the Columbus Day holiday.
8:05 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_____________________ _____________________ ________________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: ________________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
September 18, 2006
5:00 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Board conducts a Village School construction project review. Attending are: Myron from EcoGenesis, Tim Eagles from EDM, Jim Byrne and Bob (Clerk of the Works) from CMS (Project Manager).
Following a discussion, TSC makes a motion to approve a contract proposal from EcoGenesis to prepare bid documents and manage the bidding process for asbestos removal. The cost of these services is $3,140. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor. The contract amount may need to be renegotiated if additional asbestos is found providing that the contract does not exceed $5,000.
A review of the contract documents is conducted. Several individual items were discussed and corrections were made. The bidding process and timeline is discussed and individual responsibilities are decided upon. Jim Byre will be the contact person for bidder questions. EDM will be responsible for bi-weekly job meeting minute taking and distribution. AA and EDM will share public notice requirements.
Group adjourns to the gymnasium to review sprinkler system options and the impact of potential asbestos paper above the ceiling tiles. EcoGenesis will conduct further studies and report back by the end of the week. Considerable cost would be added to the project if tests come back positive for asbestos in ceiling.
Group returns to meeting room and continues the project and contract document discussion. Bid dates for General Contractors will be November 3, 2006. Board will review and likely award the bid at their November 6, 2006 regular meeting.
7:45 PM: Other business:
AA will meet with a representative from Center for Ecological Technologies next Monday to discuss: mandated Transfer Station inspection; Stop Idling Campaign and: landfill capping options.
AA will attend 51st annual meeting of the Massachusetts Municipal Personnel Association this Friday in N. Andover.
Finance Committee meets tomorrow evening. Board reviews items that have been provided to the FinCom for their review and action, including a Village School bond update, FY 2006 and FY 2007 Reserve Fund requests and FY 2006 audit update.
A request has been sent to Town Counsel seeking opinion on appropriate public meeting places. Town Boards, including the Selectmen, will need to find another meeting place for the next 10 months or so due to the Village School construction.
8:30 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. TAC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_____________________ _____________________ ________________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: ______________
Board
of Selectmen
Meeting
Minutes
September 18, 2006
5:00 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Board conducts a
Following a discussion, TSC makes a motion to approve a contract proposal from EcoGenesis to prepare bid documents and manage the bidding process for asbestos removal. The cost of these services is $3,140. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor. The contract amount may need to be renegotiated if additional asbestos is found providing that the contract does not exceed $5,000.
A review of the contract documents is conducted. Several individual items were discussed and corrections were made. The bidding process and timeline is discussed and individual responsibilities are decided upon. Jim Byre will be the contact person for bidder questions. EDM will be responsible for bi-weekly job meeting minute taking and distribution. AA and EDM will share public notice requirements.
Group adjourns to the gymnasium to review sprinkler system options and the impact of potential asbestos paper above the ceiling tiles. EcoGenesis will conduct further studies and report back by the end of the week. Considerable cost would be added to the project if tests come back positive for asbestos in ceiling.
Group returns to meeting room and continues the project and contract document discussion. Bid dates for General Contractors will be November 3, 2006. Board will review and likely award the bid at their November 6, 2006 regular meeting.
7:45 PM: Other business:
AA will meet with a representative from Center for Ecological Technologies next Monday to discuss: mandated Transfer Station inspection; Stop Idling Campaign and: landfill capping options.
AA will attend 51st annual
meeting of the
Massachusetts Municipal Personnel Association this Friday in
Finance Committee meets tomorrow
evening. Board
reviews items that have been provided to the FinCom for their review
and
action, including a
A request has been sent to Town
Counsel seeking
opinion on appropriate public meeting places. Town Boards, including
the Selectmen,
will need to find another meeting place for the next 10 months or so
due to the
8:30 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. TAC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_____________________ _____________________ ________________________
Michael
Kirchner, Chair
Curt
Date: ______________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
September 11, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
BOS reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
BOS reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Residents Steve and Judy Moore express their
strong
displeasure over the broadcast of a documentary on local access Channel
2 over
the weekend and today. The premise of the documentary was that the
6:40 PM: Resident Cory Smith addresses the Board and delivers a letter requesting that he be appointed to the vacancy on the Cemetery Commission. He said that he often wonders why the Town cemeteries aren’t better taken care of. The Board discusses the process for filling a vacancy to an elected position. In this case, a joint meeting of the Selectmen and Cemetery Commission would be required. A majority of the five votes would be needed to appoint. Board will take Mr. Smiths request under advisement and contact the Cemetery Commission.
6:50 PM:
Chief
of Police Karl Cooper speaks to the Board about the Hill property on
7:00 PM:
Board
reviews a letter received from Olga May Milligan, which expresses her
unhappiness with the apparent unresponsiveness of the Cemetery
Commission with
her request to have shrubbery removed from next to a family grave at
7:05 PM: Resident Susan Silverman along with Lenox resident Rick Greg address the Board about their campaign to stamp out idling cars and trucks. Ms. Silverman and Mr. Greg relate several of confronting people in idling cars and asking them to turn their cars off while waiting. They are looking for support from the Selectmen and the Police Dept. to help reduce the number of idling vehicles to improve air quality. Mr. Greg informs the Board that in addition to being the former CEO of Kripalu, he was named as a “Climate Champion” by an environmental group.
Chief Cooper joins a discussion on Mass. General Law that limits idling to 5 minutes. A discussion follows on making a brochure that can be passed out to offenders. A similar campaign has had some success in Lenox.
Board supports efforts to reduce idling and will contact Lenox to investigate their program and work on coming up with an informational brochure. Board thanks both for attending.
Other Items: Board receives a letter from Ed Desaulniers announcing his retirement – after 40-plus years – from the West Stockbridge Conservation Commission. With regret, Board accepts Ed’s letter of resignation.
Board has
posted a meeting for 9/18/06 at 5:00 PM to review the
Board discusses Certificates of Occupancy. Board is waiting for an updated list of homes missing Certificates of Occupancy.
Board, following review by Town Counsel, signs an agreement with SEA Consultant for the purpose conducting preliminary studies for downtown rehabilitation of streets and sidewalks.
Board, following review by Town Counsel, signs an agreement with EcoWaste for solid waste transportation and disposal.
Board reviews a copy of a letter from Lycott Industries to Natural Heritage Endangered Species (DEP/NHES) detailing the required completed studies of Mill and Card Ponds in anticipation of aquatic weed control. Lycott is making sure that DEP doesn’t have any additional issues with the weed removal proposal.
Board discusses a mailing from Berkshire Regional Planning re: a suggested Town Meeting article to vote on the adoption of mutual aid agreements to facilitate Homeland Security measures. Vote, if necessary, would take place at the Annual Town Meeting.
Board sets
a meeting with Tom Webb of Berkshire Housing for 10-2-06 to discuss his
retirement from Berkshire Housing and how the Town’s
Board takes under advisement a request from an organization called “Small Towns Acting Responsibly” (STAR) to join their organization.
TSC asks about previously discussed limited parking time signs in the area of the Public Market. CW responds that a sign just was installed.
TSC asks whether all of the Town Hall safety deficiencies noted in a report from the Town’s insurance carrier have been addressed. CW responds that all items have been corrected except for repairs to the basement hatchway.
TSC asks if
the fire alarm system will be repaired at the
Board
discusses possible meeting places for their meetings when the
TSC reports that water meter reader Paul Faggioni was bitten and had his pants torn by the Beebe dog that last time their meter was read.
TSC notes that the County Communication facility can provide “reverse 911” service to the Town at no cost. Police and Fire Chiefs will attend a meeting to investigate further.
CW reports
that resident Gordon Soule is concerned with an apparent increase in
truck
traffic on
CW passes
along a conversation held with Louise Faggioni about the status of
CW informs the Board that Bill Munch will be picking up the old Shaker Mill Dam generator. He paid the Town $500 for the discarded unit. The Historic Commission has surveyed the old generator and determined that it had no historic or practical value.
Chief Cooper reports to the Board that he is attempting to follow up on a letter sent to the Selectmen from Nicholas McCormick complaining about his treatment by the West Stockbridge Police Dept. The Chief has been attempting to arrange an interview with Mr. McCormick.
8:35 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_______________________ ______________________ ______________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair
Curt
Date: _____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
August 21, 2006
6:30 PM:
Open
Meeting;
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), and Tina Skorput Cooper. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Board executes thank-you letters to: Arts Lottery Council, Police Dept. and Highway Dept. for all of their efforts in helping to make the Zucchini Festival a success again this year.
MK discusses NIMS compliance requirements for Town officials, including Executive Govt., Police, Fire and Public Works. Both 100 and 700 level tests need to be passed by the end of Sept. ’06.
TSC asks if there will be room for the American
Legion to
meet at the
For the Zucchini Festival organizers, TSC asks if
they can
have a locked section in the
TSC relates a call received from a concerned
citizen
regarding the status of the old landfill on
Following a discussion of last meeting’s bid
opening re:
paving of Iron Mine/Iron
CW gives a
7:30 PM: At the Board’s request, Building Inspector Jim Vosburgh and Zoning Enforcement Officer Walter Potash appear before the Board to discuss concerns in the Building Department.
The Board asked Jim and Walter in to discuss weak points in the building permit process. The flow of information – particularly to the Board of Assessors – needs to be improved. The Assessors are receiving incomplete property and project data from the Building Inspector. Accordingly, properties are not being fairly valued. Building permits need to be fully filled out before being passed along to the Assessors. Board points out that it is the responsibility of the Building Inspector to ensure that applications are complete. If contractors complain about the process, then send them to the Selectmen and they will back up the Building Inspector.
Another Department shortfall that has been expressed to the Board is the slow return of calls to the Department. Board instructs Jim to check and return his phone messages more than once a week on Monday nights. Walt agrees to address messages during the week.
Board shows Jim a number of incomplete building permits received by the Assessors with incomplete information, including no project description, no project cost, and no property identification. Jim says that contractors sometimes don’t fill out all of the information required. Board responds that Jim should no longer accept incomplete applications. Give them back. The Board will support any proper enforcement actions taken by the Building Inspector.
The Board points out that the building permit application has been modified a number of times in recent years to make the process as user friendly as possible. There’s no reason why applications can’t be properly completed.
Board discusses certificate of occupancy certificates and the number of people living in homes without certificates signed off. Jim will generate a list for the Board who will write a letter to all offenders.
8:15 PM: Board thanks Jim and Walt for the discussion and reiterate the need to improve the Department’s operation.
Other Items:
The bond sale for the
AA sent the SEA contract for downtown improvement planning to Town Counsel for review. Town Counsel made a few minor recommendations. Adjustments will be made to the contract and sent back to SEA before signing.
CW is nominated to be the Town’s representative to the newly formed regional
Metropolitan Planning Organization. Each Town names a representative to attend
meetings relative to highway project funding through the State.
8:35 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
______________________ ______________________ ________________________
Michael Kirchner
Curt
Date: _______________
Town of
Board of Selectmen Minutes
August 16, 2006
Meeting Opened at 6:30PM
Members present: R. Michael Kirchner (MK) Curt G. Wilton (CW) Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC) Admin Assistant on vacation
Vendor and Payroll Warrants are signed
Mail is read
CW informs the board that Eco-Genesis was in the school for two days last week.
7PM the Board closes Bids for the repaving of Iron Ore/Iron Mine/Bobolink Roads . CW reads the legal notice. Fours bid packets were submitted. MK opens each bid and reads aloud.
Delsignore: $65.63 per ton in place
LB Corp: $65.21 per ton in place
Tri-Town $64.94 per ton in place
Lane Corp. $75.00 per ton in place
TSC makes a motion to take the bids under advisement and a decision will be made by next meeting. MK seconds motion and so voted. 3-0
Board reviews letter from Chief Cooper requesting the appointment of Benjamin Keefner as a Special Police Officer. A motion is made by TSC to make the appointment per the Chief’s request, CW seconds motion and so voted 3-0
Board reviews letter from Chief Cooper notifying the Board that Officer Messina’s waiver has been approved. Also noted that Officer Messina has signed his employment contract with the Town.
Board reviews the SEA contract, TSC makes a motion and CW seconds the motion to send the contract to Town Council for review, it is so voted 3-0
TSC updates fellow members on the progress of the
website.
MK updates fellow members on NIMS trainings and requirements.
The Board discusses the Building permit process and the process as a whole. CW brings in documentation from the Board of Assessors Office referring to incomplete building permit applications. TSC relates phone calls that the Clerk’s office receives because of unanswered messages in the Building Inspectors Office It is decided that the Building Inspector and Zoning Enforcement Officer will be invited to attend the next BOS meeting.
TSC asks CW about the phone call from Lane Corp. that the Clerk’s Office received in reference to the Berkshire Region Group Purchasing. CW is investigating it.
CW presents two quotes from Tree Companies for tree removal at the Town Cemeteries. There are only two because of no interest from any other companies that were contacted.
Dupont Tree Services $5200.00
Haupt Tree Company $9225.00
CW makes a motion to accept Dupont Tree Company, TSC seconds motion and it is so voted. 3-0
TSC relates to fellow members that the Finance Committee has asked for BOS attendance at their October 17 meeting. The purpose of this meeting is to go over the first quarter of the new fiscal year. It is suggested that the Town Accountant be notified so that she is prepared.
TSC suggests that a letter of thanks be sent to the Cultural Council for the wonderful job that was done on the recent Zucchini Festival and also one to the Police Department for the outstanding job they did with traffic control thru the whole event. It is also suggested to include the Highway Department as well , because of the work they do in preparation in the days before the Festival. TSC makes the motion and it is seconded by CW and so voted 3-0
Meeting
Adjourned 8PM
_________________ _____________________ ________________________
R. Michael Kirchner Curt G. Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Town of
Board of Selectmen Minutes
August 3, 2006
Meeting Opened at 3:30PM
Members present: R. Michael Kirchner (MK) Curt G. Wilton (CW) Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC) Admin Assistant Absent
The Board discusses ECO-Genesis Proposal for
testing of
asbestos in the
The Board discusses the revised route for the upcoming Josh Billings Runaround, which will be held September 17, 2006. The Board met with the Chair of the Josh Committee, Patti Spector, and the Fire and Police Chiefs earlier in the day to discuss the route. CW makes a motion to approve the revised route for the Josh, TSC seconds and it is so voted 3-0. MK will instruct the Admin Assistant to write to Patti Spector, Josh Billings Chairperson, notifying her of the decision.
CW informs the Board that the Water Department has a leak somewhere in the system. Mike Buffoni, Water and Sewer Superintendent will handle finding the leak in the next few days.
Meeting
Adjourned 3:50PM
_________________ _____________________ ________________________
R. Michael Kirchner Curt G. Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Board of Selectmen Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Michael Kirchner away on vacation. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Board discusses and the following appointments to the newly formed Agricultural Commission: John Springstube; Russ Fadding; Victor Stannard, Sr.; Donald Wood and; Marc Fadding. Alternate members appointed are: Peter Negrini and Curt Wilton. TSC makes a motion to approve the aforementioned appointments. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Ms. Benk asks about the ownership status of the Quarry. CW responds that the property is owned by the estate of John Astore; it is thought that nephew Charles is now the principal owner.
Ms. Benk calls for an overnight parking ban in the immediate area of the Quarry. CW responds that the process for a ban is to have the neighborhood file a petition with the Selectmen who, in turn, would bring it to Town Meeting.
Ms. Benk and the Gustafsons note that the incidence of illegal parking has lessened since the police have started towing vehicles. Also, the amount of litter in the area has been reduced.
CW notes that the Town does not own any of the property in the area used by people accessing the Quarry. MassElectric owns the right-of-way commonly used and they have not been vigilant over the years in securing the property nor have they shown any interest in prosecuting trespassers. CW goes on to say that the Town has erected 26 various No Parking signs in the area at $43 ea. and that is enough to send a clear message.
CW and TSC agree that
towing
should continue on all of the roadways near the Quarry including
Sportsmen’s
Quarry neighbors thank the Board for listening to and addressing their concerns.
Board and Chief have a general discussion regarding his FY 2007 salary and wage rates for the full and part-time officers. The Chief put in for salary increases for all. Because of a misunderstanding on the timing and procedure of requesting and setting wages for Town employees, it is determined that the Chief’s request for a salary increase be deferred until next week when a full Board is present.
CW notes that the Chief did not come to the Board prior to submitting his FY ’07 wage requests. Chief Cooper responds that he did, indeed, propose FY 2007 Department salaries back in February during a joint Selectmen/FinCom meeting.
Board and the Chief
discuss
concerns regarding public safety for the Josh Billings Race. It is
thought that
the reconstruction of the
Board approves a temporary sign permit for the Zucchini Festival.
AA informs the Board
that an
unnamed developer called with inquiries about acceptable uses at the
former
There will be a ConsCom
public
hearing on a Notice of Intent application by
Board reviews and
approves a MEMO
to be sent to the West Stockbridge COA regarding the future status of
the
Richmond/West Stockbridge COA van.
Board approves a letter to MassHighway requesting additional directional signage to get travelers to Route 90 W.
AA notes that he called
Clark and
Green to see if they could accommodate minor plan changes to the
Board reviews a new version of the full-time Police Officer employment agreement. A copy is provided to the Chief for his review.
Board reviews a letter from the Board of Assessor’s requesting a FY 2007 wage increase for Field Work. It is decided to defer on the matter for one week until a full Board is present.
CW presents and TSC approves a driveway permit for John Fullop.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_________________________ __________________________
Curt
Date: _________________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Chief informs the Board that he has no new news on his hiring by the Egremont Police Dept.
MK brings up the topic of the Chief’s employment contract. The Board maintains the position that the Chief’s current 5-year contract is invalid and that he working without a contract while the Chief maintains that his contract is valid for 2 more years. MK says that the contract status needs to be resolved.
Chief states that his attorney, Jack Collins, has been trying to get in touch with the Town’s attorney, David Jenkins, but hasn’t had any success. MK instructs the AA to contact the Town’s attorney for the purpose of discussing next steps and to urge him to contact the Chief’s attorney.
MK discusses the need to
hire a
new full-time Police Officer. Two candidates applied several months.
Now that
the selected candidate is no longer employed with the Town, it would be
reasonable to offer the vacancy to the 2nd candidate –
Rosario
Messina. Chief agrees. Chief has spoken to
The Board and Chief have a general discussion about probation period and obtaining a waiver from attending the police academy until the next available session. Full-time status would be obtained upon successful completion of the Academy.
MK wants to make sure
that
MK expresses concern
about
TSC makes a motion to appoint Rosario Messina to the position of full-time officer pending successful completion of the Academy. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor. AA to draft an employment agreement then run it by the Chief, Board and Town Counsel first.
MK asks that the Chief furnish the Town Accountant with updated pay rates for his Department and to provide them on the standardized Town forms; effective July 1. Chief agrees to sit with the AA to draw up a master payroll template for his Department.
Chief states that he has been towing cars parked near the Astore Quarry in response to neighborhood complaints. General discussion follows about where it is and isn’t legal to park in that general area.
MK asks whether the Chief had an update on Protective Custody policy and if any neighboring Departments would take W. Stockbridge cases. Chief states that Lenox is reluctant to take in adult cases but will provide for juvenile cases. Chief says that he will check with the State Police to see if they can accept adult Protective Custody cases.
MK notes that he received a complaint about one of the WSPD officers regarding the handling of people at a party. Chief states that he follows a policy when dealing with similar matters. MK suggests that such a policy be shared with the Department officers and that the Chief might consider updating his book of Department policies. When completed, the Chief could furnish a copy to officers and have them sign that they have received and reviewed.
CW reiterates the need for up to date training and training records for all of the Department officers. The Town would be in a liable position if officers are not trained to mandated levels.
A general discussion follows regarding Department staffing and scheduling. Chief responds that his Department is staffed for 2 shifts per day, 7 days per week. CW states that he has no interest in getting involved in scheduling – all he wants is fairness in scheduling.
TSC asks for a review/clarification of what happens next if the Chief does not accept the Egremont position. MK responds that the Town’s attorney needs to get in touch with the Chief’s attorney then advise the Board on the next step.
CW states that he needs to be shown that the Chief wants to stay; the Chief needs to prove to the Board that he wants to stay. Chief responds that it is a ‘2-way street’. He has not felt particularly welcome or supported by the Board during the past several months. He needs to know that the Board supports him. CW states that if the Chief is fair with his staff then CW will be fair with him.
TSC suggests that the Chief come to Board meetings once or more a month to check in. Communication is important.
Mr. Rehm reviews the
history of the
Board has a brief discussion with Rosario Messina and welcomes him to the Department. He will meet with the AA to discuss insurance, etc.
CW presents the Board will FY ’07 Highway Dept. salary requests. CW gives comparisons to neighboring like-sized Departments which shows the proposed salaries to be around the middle of the range. Following a review, TSC makes a motion to approve salaries making note that her brother is an employee. MK seconds the motion, noting the Rule of Necessity for Tina’s motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor with CW abstaining.
Other Items: Board reviews a proposal to bid for Cemetery mowing. It is decided that phone quotes would be all that is required under bidding laws. TSC suggests that the whole Commission should be involved in deciding how best to take care of the mowing and care of the cemeteries. One of the Commission members may be interested in doing some of the mowing. Board agrees.
Board reviews a letter from Mr. Munch who wishes to buy the old Shaker Mill Dam generator for $500. Board is inclined to sell it but will defer to the Historical Commission to see if they have any interest in keeping it. AA to contact Bob Salerno.
AA informs the Board
that a new State law requires that the Shaker Mill Dam be inspected by
a
qualified engineer every 2 years. The first inspection is due by the
end of
September 2006. AA to contact qualified engineers for a price. The
Meeting Minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ _______________________
Michael
Kirchner, Chair
Curt
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants following a discussion on a vendor bill for Cemetery mowing. The Town Accountant included a note with the bill advising the Board that a single vendor billing in excess of $5,000 for services requires that the Cemetery Commission solicit 3 or more written or verbal quotes for the service. The Board will so inform the Commission.
Board receives notice that Berkshire County Sheriff Carmen Massimiano has approved the old Town Hall for a community service painting project. Painting will start in mid-July. Resident Gene Dellea has pledged $100 towards the cost of paint.
CW informs the Board that the low bidder for the new Highway truck just informed him that he cannot meet the truck delivery date specified in the bid proposal. CW recommends going to the next lowest bidder who can meet the delivery date and still provide the vehicle as per the bid proposal. The cost of going to the 2nd lowest bidder is still several thousand dollars less than the Town Meeting approved appropriation. MK makes a motion to adopt CW’s recommendation. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor of the motion.
CW informs the Board
that
MassHighway will likely petition the Board for a utility pole hearing
for the
purpose of moving a pole to facilitate the
Meeting minutes approved by:
_______________________ ______________________ _______________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair
Curt
Date: ________________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves prior meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants following a discussion and agreement on correcting an overpayment in Highway Salaries. CW notes that anyone working alone at the Sewer Treatment Plant must be licensed and certified.
Board reviews the one bid received for a used Highway Dept. truck body that is no longer being used. The bid is for $500 from Bill Ketchen. Following discussion, TSC makes a motion to approve the bid. CW seconds the motion. Vote to accept the bid approved, 3-0.
CW gives the Board an
update on the reconstruction of the
Board discusses correspondence from the FinCom requesting joint meetings. Quarterly meetings to discuss budget spending and meetings to discuss capital planning. The Board sees the request as a good idea and agrees to meet. Capital planning could take place at the next FinCom meeting on July18 and the first quarterly meeting could take place shortly after the first quarter closes on September 30.
AA informs the Board that the Accountant/Treasurer software conversion will take place next week.
Board receives notification from ABCC that the All-alcoholic beverage Club license has been approved.
Board reviews warrant articles for next week’s Special Town Meeting.
There will be a ZBA meeting the same evening. 2 meeting rooms will need to be set up.
EDM will meet with the Library Commissioners on June 22 to finalize some minor changes in Library equipment and layout.
Appointed Town Officers
Office
Name
Term / Expires Y N
Administrative
Assistant
Mark Webber
3 yr. 2009 Y
Town Council
Kopelman
& Paige
1 yr. 2007 Y
Town Treasurer
Bruce Turner
1 yr. 2007 Y
Conservation
Commission
G. Edward Desaulniers
3
yr. 2009
Y
Deputy Collector
Arthur Jones
1 yr. 2007 Y
Official Weighers
Peter Naventi
1 yr. 2007 Y
Karl G.
Cooper
1 yr. 2007 Y
Faith Libardi
1 yr. 2007 Y
Memorial Day
Committee
American Legion Post 254
1 yr. 2007 Y
Veteran’s Grave
Officer
Michael
Skorput
1 yr. 2007 Y
Veteran’s Agent
Al Adams
1 yr. 2007 Y
Parking
Clerk/Hearings
Officer
Tina
Skorput Cooper
1 yr. 2007 Y
Animal Control
Officer
John
Springstube
1 yr. 2007 Y
ZBA Alternates
Lori Robbins
1
yr. 2007
Y
Elizabeth DiGrigoli
1 yr. 2007 Y
Peter
Negrini
1 yr. 2007 Y
Building Inspector
James Vosburgh
1 yr. 2007 Y
Zoning Enforcement
Officer
Walter Potash
1 yr. 2007 Y
Board of Registrars
Martha Almgren
3 yr. 2009 Y
Emergency Mgt.
Director
Louis Oggiani
1 yr. 2007 Y
Assistant Emergency
Mgt. Dir.
R.
Michael Kirchner
1 yr. 2007 Y
Consultant to
Veterans Agent
Michael Skorput
1 yr. 2007 Y
Right to Know
Officer
Peter
Skorput
1 yr. 2007 Y
Chief of Police
Karl G. Cooper
3
yr. 2006
N
Patrolman
Matthew
Kelly
1 yr. 2006
N
Special Police
Steven
Cabral
1 yr. 2006
(deferred)
Robert
Perrin
1 yr. 2007 Y
Charles
Simonelli
1 yr. 2007 Y
Carmen
Guarda
1 yr. 2007 Y
Rosario
Messina
1 yr. 2007 Y
Robert
Wood
1 yr. 2007 Y
Field Driver
Board of Selectmen
1 yr. 2006
(deferred)
Fence Viewer
Board of Selectmen
1 yr. 2006 (deferred)
Parks and Recreation
John Parker
1 yr. 2007 Y
Robert
Powell
1 yr. 2007 Y
Tina
Skorput Cooper
1 yr. 2007 Y
Tami
Cardillo
1 yr. 2007 Y
Joel
Hotchkiss
1 yr. 2007 Y
Katherine
Meyer
1 yr. 2007 Y
Lynn Ryan
1 yr. 2007 Y
Animal Inspector
John
Springstube
1 yr. 2007 Y
Cable TV Commission
Carol
Kuller
1 yr. 2007 Y
Mati Kiin
1 yr. 2007 Y
Oil Burner Inspector
Larry Morse
1 yr. 2007 Y
Gas Inspector
Robert
Gennari
1 yr. 2007 Y
Asst. Gas Inspector
Peter Negrini
1 yr. 2007 Y
Capital Planning
Committee
Finance Committee
1 yr. 2007 Y
Investment Committee
Finance
Committee/Treas.
1 yr. 2007 Y
Town Historian
Robert Salerno
1
yr. 2007
Y
Historical
Commission
Robert
Salerno
1 yr. 2007 Y
Patricia
Soldati
1 yr. 2007 Y
Christian Goodwille
1
yr. 2007
Y
Scott Sawyer
1
yr. 2007
Y
Chief Procurement
Officer
Mark Webber
1 yr. 2007 Y
Plumbing Inspector
Peter Negrini
1 yr. 2007 Y
Asst. Plumbing
Inspector
William Korte
1 yr. 2007 Y
Sewer and Water
Commission
Mark
Webber
1 yr. 2007 Y
Antonio
Pieropan
1 yr. 2007 Y
Marion
Loring
1 yr. 2007 Y
Elizabeth DiGrigoli
1 yr. 2007 Y
Brad
Richer
1 yr. 2007 Y
Council on Aging
Irene B. Norton
5
yr. 2011
Y
Doris Skorput
5
yr. 2011
Y
Wiring Inspector
Karl G.
Cooper
1 yr. 2007 Y
Assistant Wiring
Inspector
Doug Wilber
1 yr. 2007 Y
Assessor's Clerk
Amy
Butterworth
1 yr. 2007 Y
Board of Health
Secretary
Earl Moffatt
1 yr. 2006(deferred)
Smoke / Fire Alarm
Inspector
Ronald Race
1 yr. 2007 Y
Health Agent
John
Olander
1 yr. 2007 Y
BRPC Alternate
Michael
Kirchner
1 yr. 2007 Y
Agriculture
Commission
(deferred)
The following discussions took place regarding annual appointments:
Administrative Assistant – contract language will be discussed over the next several months.
Town Treasurer – reduced the 3-year appointment to 1 year. Board will contact the Treasurer to review concerns and expectations for the job.
ZBA Alternates – Peter Negrini’s name has been added as an Alternate.
Chief of Police – Board reviews opinion from Town Counsel citing MGL which states that a Chief of Police must be granted 1-year written notice if he or she is not to be re-appointed. CW is reluctant to approve re-appointment. CW notes that the Chief has publicly stated that he’d like a change of scenery and that he is burnt out. MK states that he is struggling with this appointment not knowing whether the Chief has a valid employment contract. MK suggests that a non re-appointment would move the delayed contract discussions off the mark. MK makes a motion to not re-appoint Chief of Police Karl Cooper. A follow-up letter stating his non-reappointment will serve as the Chief’s one-year written notice. Following a discussion in which it is agreed that the ball in now in the Chief’s court and that he now has a full year to demonstrate that he is up to the task of Chief, CK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
8:10 PM: Full-time Police Officer – CW makes a motion to enter executive session as allowed under MGL Ch. 39:23B(5) for the purpose of discussing the filing of criminal complaints and to return to open session upon completion. TSC seconds the motion. Roll call vote taken: MK, aye; CW, aye; TSC, aye.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Special Police Officers – Steve Cabral re-appointment is deferred until a later date when the Board can determine whether Mr. Cabral wishes to be appointed. The remaining 5 Special Police Officers are re-appointed on a provisional basis subject to their successful completion or proof of mandated training as required by MGL. That training includes CPR, First Responder and Firearms. Special Officers will be notified about the need to fulfill obligations of mandatory training.
Building Inspector – Board will define specific needs of the Department and what is expected of the Building Inspector. Concerns have been expressed about deficiencies in the Building Department.
Field Driver and Fence Viewer appointment is deferred until the Board can research the duties and obligations of the positions.
Board of Health Secretary – deferred until the Board can research exactly what the position is for.
Agriculture Commission – deferred until the Board has an opportunity to discuss with the suggested Commission members their wishes for the length of their staggered terms and to verify member names.
Following a review, Board signs an Agricultural Preservation Restriction application for Rich Barrett.
MK supplies asbestos
study and
related information for the
MK also furnishes
Meeting Minutes
approved by:
_____________________ ____________________ _____________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair
Curt
Date: _____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Pam Race,
Pam also asks if MassHighway could put up one or 2 signs directing people to the NY Thruway. There are directional signs downtown but once people get by the school they panic. Many people turn around in Pam’s driveway and ask for directions. Board will contact MassHighway.
MK says that he met with Chief of Police Cooper this past Saturday to discuss the Chief’s plans for employment. A newspaper article stated that he had accepted a patrolman’s job in Egremont. Chief said that the article was accurate but premature and that he was still in negotiations. MK emphasized that the Board needs to know the Chief’s intentions as soon as possible for planning purposes.
CW questions staffing during the Chief’s vacation and for Memorial Day. Chief’s schedule shows that he and another officer are on duty for the parade.
Officer Matt Kelly questions the Board on the appropriateness of the Chief’s scheduling of Kelly’s hours during the Chief’s vacation. MK points out and TSC agrees that the Board will not micromanage the Chief’s staffing schedule. Staffing is the Chief’s duty and should be worked out between officers and the Chief. Officer Kelly makes an angry comment and storms out of the meeting. MK and the Board did not appreciate Officer Kelly’s attitude and lack of professionalism and will make note of it.
Board receives and reviews a letter of interest from John Springstube to be appointed Animal Control Officer come July 1 when Marty Clark wants to retire. Board is pleased that 2 qualified applicants are interested in a job that is usually tough to fill.
Town of
Results of Bid Opening held on May 22,
2006
Solid Waste Hauling & Disposal
A) Year 1.
Item Valley Waste Mgt. Master Garb. ecoWaste Daley
|
Hauling Cost per haul, household waste |
$130. |
No bid |
$115. |
$125. |
$100 |
|
Disposal cost, per ton |
$76 |
No bid |
$73.50 |
$70 |
$75 |
|
Cost per haul, 40 CY recyclable paper to MRF |
$215 |
No bid |
$170 |
$200 |
$205 |
|
Cost per haul, 40 CY recyclable container to MRF |
$215 |
No bid |
$170 |
$200 |
$205 |
|
Cost per haul, 40 CY scrap metal |
$130 |
No bid |
$125 |
$125 |
$100 |
|
Monthly Rental fee, 40 CY open top |
$100 |
No bid |
$45 |
$0 |
$0 |
|
Monthly Rental fee, 40 CY closed top |
$100 |
No bid |
$65 |
$0 |
$0 |
Town of
Results of Bid Opening held on May 22,
2006
Solid Waste Hauling & Disposal
A) Year 2.
Item Valley Waste Mgt. Master Garb. ecoWaste Daley
|
Hauling Cost per haul, household waste |
$136.50. |
No bid |
$120. |
$125.+cpi |
$105 |
|
Disposal cost, per ton |
$79.80 |
No bid |
$75. |
$70.+cpi |
$78. |
|
Cost per haul, 40 CY recyclable paper to MRF |
$225.75 |
No bid |
$170 |
$200+cpi |
$210. |
|
Cost per haul, 40 CY recyclable container to MRF |
$225.75 |
No bid |
$170 |
$200+cpi |
$210 |
|
Cost per haul, 40 CY scrap metal |
$136.50 |
No bid |
$125 |
$125+cpi |
$120 |
|
Monthly Rental fee, 40 CY open top |
$105. |
No bid |
$45 |
$0 |
$0 |
|
Monthly Rental fee, 40 CY closed top |
$105. |
No bid |
$65 |
$0 |
$0 |
Town of
Results of Bid Opening held on May 22,
2006
Solid Waste Hauling & Disposal
A) Year 3.
Item Valley Waste Mgt. Master Garb. EcoWaste Daley
|
Hauling Cost per haul, household waste |
$143.32 |
No bid |
$122.50 |
Year 2 + cpi |
$115. |
|
Disposal cost, per ton |
$83.79 |
No bid |
$76.50 |
Year 2 + cpi |
$82. |
|
Cost per haul, 40 CY recyclable paper to MRF |
$237.03 |
No bid |
$170 |
Year 2 + cpi |
$220. |
|
Cost per haul, 40 CY recyclable container to MRF |
$237.03 |
No bid |
$170 |
Year 2 + cpi |
$220. |
|
Cost per haul, 40 CY scrap metal |
$143.32 |
No bid |
$125 |
Year 2 + cpi |
$125 |
|
Monthly Rental fee, 40 CY open top |
$110.25 |
No bid |
$0 |
$0 |
$0 |
|
Monthly Rental fee, 40 CY closed top |
$110.25 |
No bid |
$0 |
$0 |
$0 |
CW makes a motion to take the bids under advisement and review them. A decision can be made in the next 2 weeks after comparisons are made. MK agrees. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Other Business:
TSC announces that Peter Skorput has declined to accept his position on the Cemetery Commission. The Board must now hold a joint meeting with the Cemetery Commission to appoint someone to fill the vacancy.
TSC asks if any plans had been made to appoint Officer Simonelli to the position of part-time Officer on July 1. He has asked Tina. MK that all officers will be up for consideration and that will be a topic of discussion when the Board meets with the Chief next week. The Board is still waiting for training reports and documents from the Town’s officers which are needed to make appointment decisions.
TSC asks if there is anything that can be done to spruce up the old town hall for the Memorial Day parade. The paint is falling off and flower beds are overgrown with weeds. Board doesn’t think that there is enough time to do any painting, but CW and AA agree to clean up and mulch the flower beds this week. AA will also donate plantings to the cannon memorial if the Highway Dept. can rip out the old shrubs.
Joel also asks if
anything can be
done by the Town to force removal of the Bill Kie business sign at the
corner
of
Board has a brief discussion about capital planning with the FinCom and setting up quarterly joint budget meetings. It is suggested that the Board issue a letter to the FinCom noting that the FinCom the appointed Capital Planning Committee but the Board would be willing to provide whatever information or help that they could.
MK suggests that a letter be sent to Officer Kelly expressing the Board’s disappointment with his unprofessional actions tonight during open meeting.
Board has a brief discussion about parking policy in the downtown area. Should all the signs be removed? Should parking time limits be adjusted? Is Town meeting action required? It is agreed that parking is the policy of the Selectmen and a review should take place.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ _______________________ _______________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair
Curt
Date: _________________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). Also present: FinCom members Carol Kuller and Bob Salerno. Also present: Treasurer Bruce Turner and Unibank Financial Advisor Clarke Rowell.
Unibank Financial
Advisor Clarke
Rowell discusses various financing scenarios and presents a draft
borrowing
timetable for the
It is recommended that electronic versions of the past three year’s town audits be transferred to the Town Treasurer from T. Scanlon Assoc. so that they would be easily available for lenders to review.
Carol Kuller asks
whether the highway
truck borrowing approved at the Annual Town Meeting could be rolled in
to the
Carol Kuller suggested that debt payment schedules be structured to be sensitive to fixed-income taxpayers.
Bruce is provided a list of document requirements that needs to go to Clarke Rowell so that a bid offering can be put together.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ ______________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair
Curt
Date: _____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board review and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
Board reviews and
approves a
letter in support of Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC)
desire to
switch to the State Retirement System from the City of
Board discusses 2 grant
opportunities presented by BRPC; a technical assistance grant to help
with
Mr. Winters presents the FY ’05 Management Report. He reviews past issues that have been corrected. He discusses the sewer and water receivables which is being done properly now. Other corrected items include: firearms permits and Town Clerk checking.
Mr. Winters then discusses issues that need addressing. They include: proper identification and tracking of public safety grants and the need to make sure that only the Treasurer – with few exceptions – has knowledge and control over all Town named bank accounts. Treasurer Bruce Turner will contact all banks to get a list of accounts in the Town’s name.
A discussion follows on GASB required inventory lists. Initially, the Town had developed lists for items valued greater than $5,000. It is decided to revise the list to show all items with a value of $1,000 or more.
Greg also emphasizes that although the Town Collector does an outstanding job collecting taxes, the office needs to install collection software to cut down on accounting errors.
Greg moves on to discuss FY ’05 financial statements.
Carol Kuller asks questions about the sewer and water accounting. Greg answers that the water enterprise is showing a substantial surplus but that the sewer has been running in the black for several years. In FY ’05, DOR required the Assessor’s to place prior years deficits (going back 10 years) on the FY 2005 tax rate. Those deficits are now corrected and the sewer is not expected to run deficits in ’06. New customers have increased revenue well beyond the marginal cost of adding them.
Greg then reviews the FY ’05 balance sheet and answers related questions.
Greg discusses insurance claims in general and a past Cemetery Dept. theft reimbursement check and the rules governing insurance proceeds. Town meeting action is required on any claim reimbursement over $20,000. Claims under that amount can be used – directly by a Department – for the repair or replacement of the item(s) in question in done so in the same fiscal year.
Greg says that if his firm receives closed out Town statements, records, etc. no later than September 15, then the next audit will be completed by December.
Other items: CW notes that Shoreline Weed Control will be in Town this week working at Crane Lake Camp if the Parks and Rec. Dept. wishes to contact them re: mechanical weed harvesting at Card Pond.
CW notes that R. Klein spoke to him about a temporary sign for an upcoming auction. CW suggested that Mr. Klein obtain a sign permit.
Following a discussion, Board decides to put an old Highway Dept. truck body out for bid because it may exceed $500 in value.
Board discusses Memorial Day activities. MK agrees to act as Master of Ceremonies.
Board discusses Highway Truck upcoming bid.
Board discusses West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club liquor license application which was returned to the ABCC with corrections.
Board has a general discussion about parking tickets and parking rules on Main St. Board agrees that some adjustments may have to be made.
Library Commissioners will meet with EDM on May 31 to develop Library plans in more detail.
Minutes approved by:
_______________________ ______________________ ______________________
Michael
Kirchner, Chair
Curt
Date: _____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves prior meeting minutes.
Board reviews and
approves weekly
warrants with the exception of a question on a bill from Clark and
Green for
Other Items: Board will send a letter to Carter White acknowledging his 27 years on the Board of Directors at Richmond West Stockbridge Community Health.
Board discusses potential conflicts of interest among Board members and family. The Board was made aware of possible conflicts during a recent seminar on conflict of interest statutes presented by the State Ethics Commission. Disclosure statements, if necessary, will be placed on file with the Town Clerk.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ _______________________
Elizabeth
DiGrigoli, Chair Curt
Date: __________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). Derek Gentile, Berkshire Eagle is present.
Board hosts an
informational
meeting to discuss the planned renovation of the
Mike Kirchner gives an overview of the project and the history of past events leading up to the present proposal. MK then turns the presentation over to Tim Eagles of EDM, the architect for the project. Also present for the discussion is the Project Manager from CMS, the Town’s owner agent for the project.
Tim, with the aid of cost estimate handouts and large renderings of the project with floor plans, explains the renovation/conversion project.
Tim answers general questions about fixtures and finishes and explains that what is being proposed is a bare bones project with basic utilitarian finishes and treatments.
Joe Roy asks if the old Town Hall will become vacant once the move is made. The answer is yes. What becomes of the old Town Hall is a separate discussion and a Committee has been charged with developing options on its eventual use. The Selectmen are anxiously awaiting a report from that Committee.
Carter White notes that the presentation has been well prepared and comprehensive. All of his questions were answered.
Those in the audience break into smaller groups and review the plans and ask questions directly to the Project Manager and Architect.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ ______________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair
Curt
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board review and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Christian explains that acceptance would not change ownership or control of the property – both would stay with the Town. Christian distributes a fact sheet on the process as published by the State.
The application to the State would come from the Town’s Historic Commission. The Commission is requesting $1,250 in Town funds to hire someone to write the application. It is suggested that the funds could be appropriated from the Old Town Hall Study funds. Board points out that it would be a reach to use those study funds to hire a grant writer for a different purpose. Commission agrees. Funding to hire a grant writer will be looked for elsewhere.
MK makes a motion to support the Historic Commission and their application. ED seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Board thanks the Commission for their efforts.
Other Items: Ralph
La Cassio of State Line Road reports
that the Hill House needs to be secured again by the Board of Health.
People
have been witnessed gaining entrance. He also asks for an update on the
AA reports that
estimates have
been solicited from qualified contractors for the removal of the Hill
House
once
CW asks that a follow-up
letter be
sent to the COA explaining the status and explanation behind the
MK asks that a letter be sent to Chief Cooper reiterating an earlier request for the Chief to contact the Board to discuss his upcoming appointment and contract expiration/negotiation.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_______________________ _______________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair
Curt
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Tim Eagles (EDM) and Jim
Byrne
(CMS) representing the architect and project manager for the
Missing items from the current cost estimate are the engineering for a sewer line to the street, communications and furniture and finishes. These items will be nailed down in the next few days.
MK suggests that an
informational
meeting be held prior to the Annual Town Meeting to present the plans
and costs
to as many people who wish to attend. Perhaps some questions could be
answered
before the meeting. Board agrees and sets a date of April 17 at
Meeting minutes
approved by:
_______________________ ______________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair
Curt
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK).
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
MK makes a motion to re-appoint Town Accountant Maryellen Brown to fill out her current appointed term. Ms Brown was required to resign her Town Accountant position for 30 days as a condition of her retirement as Business Manager of Southern Berkshire Regional School District. The 30-day period has now passed. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor. MK points out that the Town Accountant’s resign/re-hire was necessary to satisfy the conditions of the County Retirement System and to do so is common practice with precedent.
Board discusses a request from the BHRSD Business Manager requesting an Annual Town Meeting warrant article to authorize the School Committee to establish a capital needs stabilization fund. It is decided to pass over the request for the time being until more information can be gathered.
Mr. Geurtin offers a
schematic that shows parallel parking on both sides of
Mr. Geurtin points out that getting a project approved by MassHighway takes time – up to 6 or more years and requires that the Town fund the complete engineering costs. Before a project is fully engineered, however, a pre-engineering design and project proposal needs to be drafted – typically by a civil engineering firm - and submitted to the State.
Mr. Geurtin offers a proposal to perform the pre-engineering work for a fee of $6,000. The Town is free to seek other proposals for the final engineering even if it chooses Geurtin for this first stage.
Board thanks Mr. Geurtin
for his presentation and will consider placing a warrant article
seeking an
appropriation from free cash to fund a pre-engineering study for the
reconstruction of
Other Items: Board
discusses capital projects as proposed
by the Parks and Recreation Committee. Committee member Tina Skorput
Cooper
provides a listing of projects that the committee is proposing. The
Committee
is asking for an additional $5,000 for capital expenses. One of the
items is
the re-surfacing of the tennis courts at
Next FinCom/Selectmen
meeting is scheduled for 4-18 at
AA informs the Board
that an RFP for hauling and disposal at the Transfer Station is
complete and
will be sent to qualified businesses. Proposals will be received until
MK asks that a meeting
notice be posted for
Meeting minutes approved by:
_____________________ _____________________ _______________________
Elizabeth
DiGrigoli, Chair Curt
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Tom Webb, Berkshire
Housing
Development Corp. discusses the
Tom pointed out that the estimate did not include a construction contingency or project administration which would make the real cost almost $1m – far above the allowable grant amount available.
Tom recommends that the
Town delay
its application until next year’s round. By that time, the Town will
have
decided about infrastructure issues and expenses at the
Tom points out that it would be foolish to submit the application with full knowledge that the cost estimate exceeded the highest possible grant award amount.
Following a discussion the Board regrets having to delay the application once again but there really is no other choice. Board agrees to delay submittal until next year’s round.
Board will contact Joan Rehm of the Council on Aging immediately and explain the situation to her. Tom states that he would gladly attend a future meeting to explain why there is no other choice but to pull the application and re-submit next year.
Other Items: Board asks for a breakdown of capital fund request made by Parks and Recreation for the FY ’07 budget. The $5,000 appropriated last year has not been spent and an additional $5,000 is being requested. The Board would like to know what projects/improvements are being planned.
Minutes approved by:
_______________________ ______________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair
Curt
Date: _________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Jim Byrne of
Construction Management
Services (CMS) appears before the Board to discuss his fee and scope of
services under a contract with the Town to perform owner’s project
manager
services for the proposed Village School/Library conversion project.
MGL
requires that cities and towns planning
any public construction project in excess of $1.5M to have an owner’s
project
manager on hand throughout the design and construction phases. CMS was
chosen
through a formal Request for Proposals. Six firms submitted proposals
and CMS
was chosen through a blind matrix scoring by the Board of Selectmen at
their
Mr. Byrne explains the jobs and duties his firm would perform during the design and construction phase of this project. He states that he will work for no charge getting doing preliminary work with the architect (EDM) up until the May 2006 Town vote seeking project funding.
Mr. Byrne states that his fee for all work related to this project will be $145,000. CMS will forward a contract proposal to the Town for review by the Selectmen and Town Counsel before execution.
Contact information for EDM Architects and CMS and Selectmen is exchanged. CMS will get together with EDM shortly to discuss the project and next steps.
MK recaps last evening’s joint meeting with the FinCom. MK instructs the AA to contact the auditors to schedule an exit conference with 3 potential scheduling options.
MK instructs AA to remind the Chief of Police of an earlier request by the Board for the Chief to provide copies of training records for Department officers to the Board of Selectmen.
______________________ _____________________ _____________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair
Curt
Date: __________
Board of Selectmen Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Other Items: ED makes a motion to nominate former Selectmen Richard Klein as a lifetime member in the Berkshire County Selectmen’s Association. Motion dies for lack of a second. MK notes that names for nomination are typically brought forward by someone other than the nominee.
General discussion regarding dedication of the upcoming Town Report. It is decided to make the main dedication to John Astore. Other Town Officials, including Ray Smith who have passed away in the past year will be noted also.
CW says that he has spoken to resident Jeff Hamilton who has expressed an interest in becoming Animal Control Officer. Long time officer Marty Clark is retiring. Following discussion, CW nominates Jeff Hamilton to take over for Marty Clark. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Board has a general discussion on the FY 2007 Police Dept. budget. Chief Cooper will present his budget tomorrow night in front of a joint FinCom/Selectmen meeting. MK notes that the Chief was asked to approach the Board last fall to begin negotiations for a new contract and he hasn’t approached the Board yet. CW asks that the Chief be given a reminder. MK reiterates that the Board does not wish to dictate Police Dept. operations but the Chief’s salary – which has yet to be negotiated – should be discussed before a FY ’07 Police Department budget request is considered.
AA informs the Board
that the Zoning Enforcement Officer has issued a cease and desist order
to
Board continues reviewing FY 2007 budget submittals and has a general discussion about special articles to be considered at the Annual Town Meeting.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_____________________ _____________________ ______________________
Elizabeth
DiGrigoli, Chair Curt
Date: _____________
Meeting Minutes
Joint Meeting of Finance Committee & Board of Selectmen
Quorum present: Carol Kuller, Robert Salerno, Gail Blackhull, Michael Skorput (all FinCom), Curt Wilton, Michael Kirchner (both Bd. of Selectmen), Mark Webber (Admin. Asst.), Town Clerk Tina Skorput Cooper.
General discussion regarding whether or not BHRSD Supt. Donna Moyer needed to attend either or both a future Selectmen’s or FinCom meeting to discuss the District FY 2007 budget. The consensus is no, there is no need to ask her to come out for another night of meetings.
Mark Webber relates a phone call from Pat Soldati requesting an increase in the Historic Commission FY ’07 budget request from $500 to $1,000. Following an explanation by Bob Salerno - including the Commission’s desire to purchase a photo scanner - the increase is approved.
Carol K. opens a discussion on the procedure exercised recently by the Selectmen to accept the resignation of Maryellen Brown as Town Accountant then agree to hire her back after a 30 day period. Michael K. explains that because of a quirk in G.L., a person who is enrolled in the State Retirement System who wishes to retire must retire from all Retirement covered jobs. That person may resume one or more of those retired from positions after a waiting period of 30 days and must adhere to earning and hours per year worked. The Board agrees to accommodate Ms. Brown because it is a common practice to do so. Michael K. cited a recent example in Gt. Barrington with a retiring Police Officer/Selectman.
Carol K. requests that a pie chart representing the revenue side of the FY ’07 budget be done to go along with the graph for the expenditure side.
A general discussion ensues regarding the tax bill and tax rate impact of annual budgets. Projecting tax rate and tax bill impacts of the annual budget can not be exact because of the fluctuation in property values from year to year. Tax rates are not set until property values are approved seven months after adoption of the budget. Additionally, only estimates of both local receipts and State Aid are available when budgets are presented an approved in May. None of the Town’s revenue sources are available when the budget is voted.
Carol K. asks Mark W. to put together an article for the Local Yokel explaining how the Town budget is built.
Group reviews and approves Bd. of Assessor’s budget request.
Following a presentation by Tina Skorput Cooper, group reviews and approves Town Clerk and related budget requests.
The following line items have either not been submitted by Departments or are awaiting additional information: Police, Parks and Rec., Street Lights, Solid Waste/Transfer Station.
Mike K. suggests that Chief Cooper be called to the next FinCom/Selectmen session to present his FY ’07 budget. Group agrees. Mark W. to inform the Chief.
Carol K. asks that she be told when the ’05 audits arrive.
Carol K. suggests that the following budgets be deleted since they are never paid: Rape Crisis, Women’s Services, and Construct. Michael K. notes that the Town hasn’t paid out these budgets in the past because the Town has not been billed. Group agrees to remove the budgets.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ ____________________
______________________ _____________________ _____________________
Board of Selectmen Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
BOS reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
BOS reviews and approves weekly warrants.
ED reminds AA to send in lieu of flowers donation for Ray Smith to Congregational Church.
Joe reads a 3-page
letter
summarizing
Joe and the
neighborhood’s wish is
that by issuing a cease and desist,
Joe asks if Town Counsel
has
responded to requests for opinion on this situation. AA responds that
letters
and e-mails have been sent and that he has spoken to Town Counsel but
no
written response has been received yet. AA notes that Town Counsel
moved their
MK suggests that any
orders issued
to
Board agrees to contact
the
Building Inspector and facilitate actions regarding the
ED asks who is responsible for removing wreaths from Town Hall. CW responds that he must be and will take them down.
ED asks who is responsible for raising and lowering town flags. CW responds that he is a little tired of being blamed for not attending to flags when he has never been told or asked to be the one responsible. Historically, the American Legion – particularly Ray Smith – took care of the flags. Since Ray’s passing no one person or group has been assigned the task. MK suggests that a letter be sent to the Legion seeking their input. Board agrees.
ED asks about news reports indicating that BHRSD would be reducing their capital assessments to District towns. MK responds that the BHRSD School Committee would be taking up that subject at their meeting this Thursday and there was a good likelihood that assessments would be reduced because School Building Assistance reimbursement is expected for FY ’07.
ED asks CW who is responsible for cleaning the Town Hall and would like a work schedule of that person. CW responds that one of the Highway Dept. employees acts as Town building custodian. He will furnish ED with the requested schedule by next meeting.
ED suggests that the
Board solicit quotes for removal of Hill house as soon as
Board reviews and
approves the
Community Development Strategy as drafted by the AA and Berkshire
Housing. This
report is a component of the
ED asks if there is anyone present that wishes to speak for or against the application. Abutter David Pearlson is present and asks the applicants if there will be any changes to past practices and activities at the Club. Club representative Vincent Stannard says that there are no planned changes.
ED asks if all bartenders have complied with TIPS training. Mr. Stannard says that they have complied. Kristany Skorput is named the Manager on the application.
MK points out that the Club needs to be very careful about adhering to serving policies because there have been incidents in the past involving Club patrons and Police.
CW asks if local taxes are current on the Club. AA responds that the Town Collector informed him today that the Club is current. CW notes that a license is available per the quota allowed in Town.
Other Items: FY 2005 audits are distributed to the Board. Copies have been furnished to the FinCom.
Kathy Davis has agreed to work with the Girl Scouts on a Town Flag project.
Board reviews and approves an agreement with Sumaria for a new accountant/treasurer software program and annual maintenance contract.
AA tells the Board that
a group of downtown merchants concerned with potential traffic issues
resulting
from the scheduled reconstruction of the
Board reviews a letter
from Rep. Pignatelli requesting the Boards support in opposing slot
machine
legislation in
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_____________________ ______________________ ______________________
Elizabeth
DiGrigoli, Chair Curt
Date: _____________
Meeting Minutes
CW makes a motion to go into executive session as allowed under MGL Ch. 39:23B #3 to discuss strategy with respect to contract negotiations with non-union personnel and to return to open meeting session upon conclusion of the executive session. MK seconds the motion. Roll call vote taken: MK, aye; CW, aye.
MK makes a motion to
appoint
Officer Matt Kelly to the position of full-time police officer
effective
immediately. This appointment will run until
Other Items: AA informs the Board that there is some interest among the Boy Scouts about designing a Town flag to be hung in the Hall of Flags at the State House. Jennifer Summers is following up. CW asks AA to contact Jill Pixley to see if there are any active Girl Scouts. If so, they should be asked if they want to participate in the project.
There will be a joint FinCom/Selectmen meeting on March 1st to discuss the FY ’07 budget.
A site visit is
scheduled for March 1 from
Continuation of the
Scenic Mt. Act Public Hearing will be held at
A Public Hearing on the
A Public Hearing to act
on a liquor license application from the West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s
Club is
scheduled for March 13th at
Discussion about the retirement of Dog Officer Marty Clark and who the Town might be able to find to replace him. CW says that he may have a few people who might be interested.
CW gives the Board a letter from Dr. and Carol Kuller who wish to donate $100 worth of fuel oil to be used exclusively at the old Town Hall which was won at the raffle at the Fire Department’s recent dinner dance. Board accepts with pleasure.
CW makes a motion to
nominate the following residents to a future Town of
Meeting minutes approved by:
_________________________ __________________________
Curt
Date: ____________
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). No press present. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA).
Steve McAllister, Clark
and Green
Architects discusses the
Board reviews an architectural services contract between the Town and Clark and Green Architects for design and project bid documents for the proposed senior center then signs the contract.
CW recalls a similar
situation
with a retiring police officer in Gt. Barrington a few years ago. That
officer,
who was also a selectman, had to retire from the Board of Selectmen for
a short
period then be reappointed to serve the remainder of his term. The
Board sees
no reason not to accommodate Ms. Brown’s request. CW makes a motion to
accept
her resignation effective
Other Items:
Board reviews updated
materials
from EDM re: the
Board reviews and acts on several FY 2007 budgets. The FinCom will be meeting on Feb. 15 and will be able to review the same budgets. Most, but not all, Departmental budgets have been submitted. MK will be away on vacation for that meeting but asks the AA to attend. CW and ED will also attend the FinCom meeting.
AA informs the Board
that a
recycling refund check was just received from the MERF Recycling
consortium
which the Town participates in. The check is the 2nd
received this
year. Both checks were for $2,900. AA notes that this year is the first
time in
many years that the Town has received any payments for recycled
materials
shipped to the facility in
Board reviews a fire
alarm repair
proposal received from Alarms of Berkshire County to repair the system
at
Board reviews a letter received from the State Senate stating that West Stockbridge is one of a few towns that do not have a town flag flying at the State House. MK suggests that making a town flag might be a good project for the Boy Scouts and asks the AA to contact the pack leader and make that suggestion.
Board discusses the FY
2007 Tree
Warden budget and decides that the proposal to appropriate $7,500 for
Following a discussion, MK makes a motion to issue a letter of reprimand to the Chief of Police for his continued failure to supply the Board with a monthly Department staffing schedule prior to the start of each month. Board has asked the Chief several times over the past several months to supply a work schedule for police officers. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
AA informs the Board that a representative from the W. Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club came to the Town Hall last week and reviewed the Club’s application for a new license. AA called the ABCC and spoke with the Commission’s attorney who said that the Club could not serve or sell alcohol to members or anyone else without an approved liquor license. Also, according to the ABCC attorney, the Club’s application would be treated as a new license not a renewal because the previous license had lapsed. AA informed the Mr. Salvatore (Club) at their meeting that the application was missing 3 items and that they had to be furnished before the application could be advertised for a public hearing. Those items haven’t been returned yet.
Meeting minutes
approved by:
______________________ _____________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair
Curt
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Tim Eagles, EDM
Engineers,
presents the Board with a review of the space use for the
Library Trustee Jennifer Summers and Librarian Leslie Meltzer are present and are pleased with the Library design.
Tim Eagles presents project building cost estimates broken down by division. The construction is now estimated at $2.1m or $204/sq. ft. for the entire project including retrofitting the police station with sprinklers and make-up air. The estimate includes a 15% project contingency for unforeseen circumstances and or construction problems encountered.
Tim Eagles notes that this is the first estimate and that the number needs to be refined. He also notes that the estimate does not include several items, including professional project management which is a state law requirement on public projects over $1.5m and furniture and fixtures.
MK thanks Tim for his presentation and suggests that the Board take the project estimates under advisement. Board agrees.
MK makes a motion to
send out a
Request for Proposals (RFQ) to hire a project manager for the
Resident Joe Roy objects to the construction of a berm and seedlings. Today, there are mature trees on a buffer zone between operations and the neighborhood. A berm would be less of a buffer and would take time to construct.
In response to a comment
about dust created by blasting,
Ray Boulder, operations
engineer for
Peter Negrini, ConsCom member, is concerned with possible past and potential wetlands violations and impacts. The quarry is bordered by wetlands and waterways. He notes that the ConsCom has sent J.S. letters in the past without response. He suggests that a comprehensive plan needs to be presented to the ConsCom soon. From that plan, determinations can be made about the need for Notices of Intent from the ConsCom.
Ed Denham, ConsCom
member, asks if there is a reclamation plan on file for the quarry.
Ed responds that one should be done and on file with the Town. There should also be a comprehensive quarrying plan on file. This plan could be overlaid with wetlands and endangered species maps to determine if there are any concerns.
The floor of the quarry is at 874’ above sea level.
Mr. Boulder explains that the quarry must comply with its federal groundwater discharge permit which regulates how ground water is filtered before it gets to any waterways.
CW asks what the
operation season of the quarry is.
In response to a
question,
MK thanks
Meeting minutes approved by:
_______________________ ______________________ _______________________
Elizabeth
DiGrigoli, Chair Curt
Date: ________________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
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