Board of Selectmen
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 Parish Center
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 Main St. area. Copy will go to Berkshire Regional Planning Commission.
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 Rosario ask the Board. Following a discussion, Board agrees to allow a one-time roll-forward of Rosario’s 1-week vacation. Rosario and the Chief will be issued a letter to that effect.
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 Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
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 State Line Road. Board responds that Hill heir information that the Land Court judge requested has been obtained and passed along to Town Counsel Scully who, in turn, has delivered to the court. Town Counsel feels that this is the last step and now we have to wait for the Court to issue the judgment.
Board reviews the Village School project. Specifically, the Board discusses actions necessary to obtain a State waiver for the installation of sprinklers in the gymnasium. Sprinklers and associated work in this area is estimated to drive up the project cost considerably. Along with the waiver application, letters of support are required from both the local Building Inspector and Fire Chief. Applying for a waiver was recommended by the State Building Inspector.
Board reviews a letter from Carmen Morse who has requested using the Village School grounds for a scarecrow making youth project. CW makes a motion to approve with the note that the gymnasium is booked for an activity during the same time period. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
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 Senior Center project. Mr. Webb wrote last year’s grant for the Senior Center that was withdrawn prior to submittal because the architect’s project cost estimates were higher than the allowable grant amount. Tom now works privately but has carried his Berkshire Housing portfolio with him. The cost of the Senior Center will be reduced under the new grant application because the Town will be supplying a portion of infrastructure items under the Village School reconstruction project. It is agreed that Mr. Webb will continue to do preliminary work in anticipation of applying for the next grant round. However, it will not be submitted until the Town opens bids in early November for the Village School project. If bids come in over estimates then both the Village School project and Senior Center will have to be re-examined. Tom notes that a Public Hearing, as a grant requirement, will need to be scheduled for the first part of November.
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 Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
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 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 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 U.S. govt. was directly responsible for the events of 9-11. The Moores felt that it was terribly inappropriate to air this documentary on the anniversary of 9-11. Judy contacted two members (Mati Kiin and Carol Kuller) of the West Stockbridge Cable TV Commission to voice her displeasure. The Selectmen had no knowledge of the airing and agreed with the Moores that the showing was insensitive. Board will review policies on what should and shouldn’t appear on the local access channel and will discuss the matter with the Cable TV Commissioners at a future date. The Moores thank the Board for listening.
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 State Line Rd. At the Treasurer and Land Court’s request, Chief Cooper has attempted to contact any Hill relatives over the past several weeks. The only apparent surviving relative discovered is Dolores Hill of Delaware. This information has been passed along to Town Counsel Jerry Scully who indicated that the Land Court should now be satisfied that every attempt has been made to contact relatives.
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 West Center Cemetery. Board will refer the matter to the Cemetery Commission. TSC notes that new member Holly Fadding has been doing a lot of work in the Cemeteries lately and that the matter might already have been taken care of.
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 Village School project.
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 Senior Center grant might be impacted.
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 Village School. MK responds that a new system will be part of the construction project and that it didn’t seem practical to repair the old system to operate for a few months.
Board discusses possible meeting places for their meetings when the Village School becomes unavailable do to the construction project. Boards now using the school will need to find a new meeting place for the next year or so beginning about October 1. St. Patrick’s Rectory, Fire Station Meeting Room, Sportsmen’s Club, Masonic Hall, and the Old Town Hall are named as possibilities.
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 Swamp Road. Board discusses having a traffic count conducted by Berkshire Regional Planning.
CW passes along a conversation held with Louise Faggioni about the status of Spencer Place, Merritt Way, Harris St. and Moscow Road and how the potential closing of the private way known as Merritt Way might effect access to her families’ properties on Spencer Place. Board will discuss the matter with the Planning Board.
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 Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: _____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
August 21, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; Village School.
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 Village School. The Legion home on Gt. Barrington Rd. is being vacated at the end of this month. CW responds that the Legion has been assured of a room to meet in although it will not be theirs exclusively. A locked armory has also been provided in the Village School basement.
For the Zucchini Festival organizers, TSC asks if they can have a locked section in the Village School basement to store Festival items. MK responds that they can store things in the utility room as in the past but to wall off and secure a new section would not be possible at this time because of the upcoming construction and building code/sprinkler concerns.
TSC relates a call received from a concerned citizen regarding the status of the old landfill on Oak St. and when and if it would be capped. The landfill history is discussed including an appropriation of $20,000 made approximately 10 years ago in anticipation of applying for a then in place state grant. That grant program was abolished the following year and no new funding programs have replaced it. The town is not under any DEP orders to do anything with the site. Board decides to revisit the topic by researching DEP regulations, liability and today’s cost to cap the site.
Following a discussion of last meeting’s bid opening re: paving of Iron Mine/Iron Ore/ Bob-O-Link Roads, TSC makes a motion to accept the recommendation of the Highway Supt. and award the contract to the low bidder – Tri-Town Paving for $64.90/ton in place. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
CW gives a Shaker Mill Bridge construction update. A cofferdam is being constructed to regulate the water flow and the bridge will go down to one lane with alternating traffic and traffic signals in about 2 weeks. The contractor hopes to keep working through the winter.
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 Village School project will take place tomorrow morning at 11:00 AM. The Treasurer and Financial Advisor will present the results and recommendations at the next Board meeting.
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 Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: _______________
Town of West Stockbridge
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. Virtual Town Hall will be meeting with Town Departments on August 28 and 29 at the Town Hall.
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 West Stockbridge
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 Village School. The estimate will be $5000 and testing will begin within the next week. TSC makes a motion to accept the estimate and allow ECO-Genesis to begim. CW seconds motion and so voted 3-0
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
July 24, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; Village School.
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.
7:00 PM: Anita Benk and her husband along with the Gustafsons speak to the Board regarding illegal parking near and trespassing at the Astore Quarry.
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 Club Lane. CW suggests that the Police step up patrols and towing, if necessary, in the area. Chief Cooper states that patrols do police the area nearly every day. It is suggested that MassElectric be contacted again to re-secure the right-of-way entrance. Motorcycles can get in easily.
Quarry neighbors thank the Board for listening to and addressing their concerns.
7:25 PM: George and Mary Allen ask the Board how long an issued building permit is valid. Board is not certain and refers the matter to the Building Inspector. The Allens are directed to the Building Inspector’s office.
7:30 PM: Chief Cooper informs the Board that he will not be accepting a job with the Egremont Police Department and that he will be staying on as Chief in West Stockbridge. An agreement couldn’t be reached.
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 Shaker Mill Bridge, which is on the race route, will cause a very dangerous situation. Chief has spoken with Emergency Management Director Lou Oggiani and both agree that an alternate route should be taken for the next 2 years. The Chief will contact race coordinator Patty Spector to discuss everyone’s concerns.
8:15 PM: Other Items:
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 Berkshire Truck Plaza. The developer will make a visit to Town at the end of August.
There will be a ConsCom public hearing on a Notice of Intent application by J.S. Lane for a settling pond at the Lane Quarry.
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. Richmond is planning on joining the BRTA and is expecting to receive a new van and the disposition of the current van needs to be addressed.
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 Senior Center design. Architect Steve McAllister is on vacation.
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.
8:35 PM: There being no further business to discuss, TSC makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_________________________ __________________________
Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: _________________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
July 10, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
6:45 PM: Chief Cooper, per invitation from the Board, is present to discuss several Police Dept. items.
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 Rosario and thinks he would make a great officer and he is available to begin work after giving ample notice to the Gt. Barrington PD.
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 Rosario and all the other officers have up to date mandated training records on file. The Town is in a liable position when its officers are not fully trained. The prior list provided by the Chief was incomplete.
MK expresses concern about Rosario being on call. He lives too far away to respond to emergencies in a reasonable time. Chief agrees and suggests putting the State Police on call overnight for 2 nights a week. MK states that scheduling is the Chief’s job; the Board doesn’t want to become directly involved.
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.
7:40 PM: Norwin Rehm asks the Chief if he will be attending the TRIAD event in Dalton on 7/19. Chief says that he planned to attend.
7:45 PM: Paul Geurtin addresses the Board on his proposal to assist the Town in applying for State funding for the reconstruction of the downtown area roads, sidewalks, etc. He reviews the benefits of parallel parking on both sides of Main St. Board thanks Mr. Geurtin for attending and the Board will review his and other proposals at their next meeting.
7:55 PM: General discussion with Norwin Rehm re: Senior Center design and grant application. MK informs Mr. Rehm that the Board has been in contact with Tom Webb of Berkshire Housing about next year’s application. Clark and Green has agreed to alter last years design/cost estimate to take in to account infrastructure reductions that will be picked up by the Town as part of its Village School project. Clark and Green will not be making any significant changes to the layout presented a year ago although there may be opportunities for minor changes if they don’t prompt other mechanical, electrical, structural, etc. changes.
Mr. Rehm reviews the history of the Senior Center process. CW responds that Public Hearing had decided that the Center will be 2,700 sq. ft. It’s up to Clark and Green to design that space within the limits of the grant. Mr. Rehm states that he has his own design that accommodates all of his wishes in even less space.
8:05 PM: Board discusses renting the old Police Station at the Town Hall to Maxymillian for use by MassHighway engineers for the next 20 months as a construction office during the Shaker Mill Bridge project. The Contractor will pay $750/month or $15,000 for the period of the project. Town will furnish heat and electric and Contractor will get their own phones and internet hooked up. CW makes a motion to rent the old Police Station for $750/mo. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
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 Card Lake Dam falls under the same regulation but only has to be inspected every 3 years.
9:00 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, 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
June 26, 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 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 Shaker Mill Bridge reconstruction project. CW also requests that a letter be sent to MassHighway Supt. Ross Dindio requesting several items for his consideration related to the project including: delay warning signage on Rte. 90; additions optical emitter devises and; provisions for future utilities to be strapped underneath the bridge. Board agrees to send request letter and another letter stating that the Town would have no objection to holding a utility pole hearing to move the one pole in question.
7:00 PM: There being no additional business, CW makes a motion to adjourn the regular meeting. A Special Town Meeting is scheduled to begin as soon as a quorum is present. 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
June 21, 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 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.
6:50 PM: Board approves a request from the Multiple Sclerosis Society for use of the green space next to the Post Office.
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.
7:00 PM: Board reviews emergency generator bids to replace the old generator at the Fire Station. Following a review of the 3 bids received, MK makes a motion to accept the low bid from Polson Electric, Pittsfield, MA. The bid price is $16,800 which is less than the set aside appropriation and grant approved totaling $18,000. MK notes that end of July delivery date needs to be amended to 12 weeks from approval because of an anticipated delay in delivery. TSC seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
7:15 PM: Following a review of Highway truck equipment package bids received on June 19, CW recommends going with the low bidder – Zwack Equipment of Stephentown, NY. CW notes that the cost of the total package of truck and snow plow equipment is less than the May annual town meeting appropriation. TSC makes a motion to award the bid to Zwack. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
CW gives the Board an update on the reconstruction of the Shaker Mill Bridge. There is still no start date. Today’s site meeting discussed re-location of a utility pole that will be in the way of construction. The contractor and State are also reviewing location of temporary traffic signals. CW asks that a letter be written to MassHighway requesting 3 additional optical emitters (to trigger traffic lights) for use by public safety personnel and that a sign be placed on the MassPike informing trucks of construction in the center of Town and to encourage them to stay on Rte. 90.
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.
8:00 PM: Board reviews and acts on the list of annual officer appointments as follows:
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
ADA Coordinator James Vosburgh 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
Ogden Gigli 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
Berkshire Reg. Planning Comm. Stephen McMahon 1 yr. 2007 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
8:25 PM: Board returns to open session. Board discusses a series of complaints received from residents on the unprofessional and aggressive behavior exhibited by Officer Matthew Kelly over the past several months. The Board was hopeful that Officer Kelly would turn it around and become a good officer and a good fit for the Town but that does not seem to be the case. MK makes a motion not to re-appoint Matthew Kelly to the position of Full-time police officer subject to review by Town Counsel on the provisions of due process. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
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.
9:10 PM: CW relays a request from Brian Butterworth asking if the Town Highway Dept. could be hired by the Congregational Church to re-pave the Congregational Church driveway. Following a discussion on the separation of church and state, Board agrees that the request must be denied.
Following a review, Board signs an Agricultural Preservation Restriction application for Rich Barrett.
MK supplies asbestos study and related information for the Village School obtained from the school district which will be passed along to the project architects.
MK also furnishes Village School roof data and guarantee to be passed along to the project architects.
9:30 PM: There being no further business to discuss, 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
May 22, 2006
6:30 PM: Open meeting; Village School
Quorum present: Michael Kirchner (MK), Curt Wilton (CW), Tina Skorput Cooper (TSC). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Pam Race, State Line Road resident discusses putting a care package together for J. Delsodato who is stationed in Iraq. Pam asks if the Town would be willing to pay for postage for a shipment of donated goods. The Board praises Pam for her caring but point out that it wouldn’t be appropriate for town funds to be used for such a purpose without the approval of the Town. MK suggests that many people would be willing to make donations for postage and goods. Perhaps several smaller packages would work better.
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.
7:00 PM: MK reads the notice to bid for the Transfer Station Request for Proposals for solid waste hauling and disposal. MK then reads the bids as follows:
Town of West Stockbridge
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 West Stockbridge
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 West Stockbridge
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.
7:15 PM: A representative from Unison Finance – Joe Osche – addresses the Board on what his company does. He is in the business of purchasing long-term cell tower and antenna leases from communities and negotiating a lump sum buyout for the cell tower/antenna revenue. His company has a portfolio of 200 similar transactions nationwide. Board is interested in leaning more. The next step is to provide Mr. Osche with current lease/contract documents from Charter Communications. Following a review of those documents, Unison may or may not make a buyout proposal to the Town.
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.
7:45 PM: Joel Hotchkiss asks about traffic during Zucchini Day festival with the Shaker Mill Bridge being down to one lane during construction. Board agrees that it will be a concern but that everyone will just have to do their best.
Joel also asks if anything can be done by the Town to force removal of the Bill Kie business sign at the corner of West Center and State Line Road. CW points out that he contacted the State and the sign is on State property. CW suggested that there was some reluctance on the part of the State to force its removal because there are likely hundreds of signs on State property throughout the county and it wasn’t a program the State was now interested in taking on.
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.
8:20 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn. 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
May 19, 2006
2:00 PM: Open Meeting; Village School
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 Village School conversion project.
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 Village School construction borrowing. Clarke and Bruce will look into the feasibility and practicality of doing so. MK points out that there may be legal language restrictions tied to the Town Meeting authorization for the truck borrowing. Town meeting was specific about the borrowing terms.
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.
3:00 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.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ ______________________
Michael Kirchner, Chair Curt Wilton Tina Skorput Cooper
Date: _____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
May 15, 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 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 Pittsfield system.
6:45 PM: Bob Korte, representing the American Legion, asks the Board to consider a request from the Legion to provide a room for the Legion in the Village School when it is renovated. They wish to have a locked room to call their own; not just a shared meeting room. MK responds that the Board will consider the request but as of now the designed space does not include a room for the Legion. There may be room in the “future use” space. In any event, no one will be using the building for any purpose once construction starts and that could last 12 months or more. CW concurs with MK and tells Bob that space is limited but the Board will do what it can. Bob thanks the Board.
6:50 PM: Board discusses Memorial Day proceedings. MK will act as Master of Ceremonies.
Board discusses 2 grant opportunities presented by BRPC; a technical assistance grant to help with Smart Growth State initiatives and a matching grant for parkland acquisition or improvements. AA has applied for the technical assistance grant and the Board will discuss options for the parkland grant.
7:00 PM: Board welcomes Greg Winters from Tom Scanlon Associates, CPA who will present the Town’s FY ’05 audit exit conference. Also present are Carol Kuller and Bob Salerno from the FinCom.
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.
8:15 PM: Mr. Winters ends the exit conference. Board and FinCom thank him for the presentation.
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.
8:30 PM: There being no further business to discuss, TSC makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW 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
April 24, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
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 Senior Center architectural services. Board wants to make sure that Clark and Green will alter their drawings and specifications for no additional fee beyond the original contract. Clark and Green was given instructions to design a project within the limits of the grant award. The project estimate came in considerably higher that the allowed award.
7:00 PM: Board reviews Annual Town Meeting warrant and divides up articles and topics among Board members for discussion and answers at the meeting.
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.
8:30 PM: There being no additional business before the Board, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: __________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
April 17, 2006
5:30 PM: Open Meeting
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 Village School to Town Offices and Library. Approximately 40 people are present to hear the presentation and ask questions.
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.
7:00 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ ______________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
April 10, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
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.
7:00 PM: Historic Commission members Bob Salerno, Christian Goodwillie, Pat Soldati ask the Board if they would support an application process to place the old Town Hall on the Commonwealth’s list of Historic Places.
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 Land Court status. Board reports that Town Counsel Scully called last week to report that he has called the Land Court every day for the past 2 weeks and no one has been able to give him a status update. He pledged to keep calling every day until he gets an answer. He is getting nearly as frustrated as the neighbors and the Town. He points out that Land Court works at their own pace which is slower than a two-legged turtle.
AA reports that estimates have been solicited from qualified contractors for the removal of the Hill House once Land Court grants approval. It will be the Town’s expense to remove the house. In these cases, the remaining land is sometimes auctioned off to recover demolition expenses. It would be up to the Selectmen.
CW asks that a follow-up letter be sent to the COA explaining the status and explanation behind the Senior Center grant. The COA chair has been called but a formal letter would be a good idea.
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.
7:50 PM: There being no further business, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_______________________ _______________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
April 5, 2006
5:30 PM: Open Meeting; Village School, State Line Road.
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 Village School conversion project discuss the budget estimates for the project. The Board wishes to publish an accurate project cost estimate to include in the Annual Town Report which goes to the printer in 2 days.
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 5:30 PM for an informational meeting. The architect and project manager will attend that meeting.
6:30 PM: There being no further business, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_______________________ ______________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
April 3, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; Village School, State Line Rd.
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.
7:05 PM: Paul Geurtin of Geurtin Associates (engineering firm) discusses the process for getting proposals looked at and approved by MassHighway. The Board is interested in advancing a proposal to reconstruct the downtown Main St. – both pavement and sidewalks and Mr. Geurtin was invited to the meeting to discuss the State funding process. Mr. Geurtin points out that MassHighway does prefer to spend its money in towns that accept parallel parking. It is pointed out that a $1.2M proposal to rebuild the Main St. was approved by the State and was being scheduled approximately 4 years ago. But the project was pulled shortly after petitions were circulated by 2 Main St. merchants who opposed the parallel parking.
Mr. Geurtin offers a schematic that shows parallel parking on both sides of Main St. with a net gain of 7 parking spots over the present diagonal amount – from 31 to 38. MK notes that he did a study when he was the Chief of Police several years ago that showed the exact same numbers of parking spaces. His study was done out of concern for traffic safety.
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 Main St.
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 Village School. All agree that it would be a shame to loose the court which is in need of repairs. Board approves the request and it will be placed on the Annual Town Meeting warrant.
Next FinCom/Selectmen meeting is scheduled for 4-18 at 7:30 PM.
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 May 22, 2006. The current 5-year contract expires on June 30, 2006. It is noted that solid waste contracts are exempt from State Procurement Laws but that it is good practice to seek competitive bids nonetheless.
MK asks that a meeting notice be posted for 4-5-6 for the purpose of having a joint meeting with CMS (project manager for the Village School conversion project) and EDM (architect for the project). The meeting will be at 5:30 PM and is needed to discuss final estimates for the project.
8:10 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_____________________ _____________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
March 29, 2006
5:30 PM: Open Meeting; West Stockbridge Village School
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 Senior Center grant application which is due to submit next week. Tom tells the Board that Steve McAllister of Clark and Green, the architects designing the senior center, contacted him today with a project cost estimate of $802,000.
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 Village School. Specifically, the Town may fund sewer, electrical, fire protection, and parking/access upgrades to the facility that will not have to be considered in the Senior Center grant application next year. Those costs had to be included in the present grant application because it couldn’t be assumed that the Town would approve the Village School conversion to Town Offices/Library project. These would be necessary costs of the Village School conversion to Town Offices and Library. Those costs could be reduced from the Senior Center project when it is resubmitted next year.
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.
7:00 PM: There being no additional items to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_______________________ ______________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: _________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
March 22, 2006
5:30 PM: Open Meeting
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 March 6, 2005 regular meeting.
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.
6:15 PM: Other items:
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.
6:30 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
______________________ _____________________ _____________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: __________
Board of Selectmen Meeting Minutes
March 20, 2006
5:30 PM: Open Meeting
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 J.S. Lane and informed Lane that they must seek a special permit to continue their non-conforming operation.
Board continues reviewing FY 2007 budget submittals and has a general discussion about special articles to be considered at the Annual Town Meeting.
7:10 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_____________________ _____________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: _____________
Meeting Minutes
Joint Meeting of Finance Committee & Board of Selectmen
March 1, 2006
7:30 PM: Open Meeting. West Stockbridge Village School, State Line Road.
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.
8:45 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, Curt W. makes a motion to adjourn. Bob S. seconds the motion. Vote taken, 6-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ ____________________
______________________ _____________________ _____________________
Board of Selectmen Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting, Village School, State Line Road.
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.
6:40 PM: Joe Roy and several of his Lane Quarry neighbors attend the meeting seeking an update on Town activities regarding the group’s contention that J.S. Lane is in violation of local zoning regulations.
Joe reads a 3-page letter summarizing J.S. Lane quarrying activities over the years and the impact to the neighborhood and petitions the Selectmen to forward this information to the Building Inspector and or Zoning Enforcement Officer for action. The group recommends that a cease and desist order be issued as soon as possible to J.S. Lane (letter attached).
Joe and the neighborhood’s wish is that by issuing a cease and desist, J.S. Lane must stop further blasting and excavation at the quarry until J.S. Lane either appeals the cease and desist order or applies for a special permit from the ZBA. Joe states that the gravel operation clearly requires a special permit because it is an expansion of a pre-existing non-conforming use.
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 Boston offices at about the same time that this dialogue began.
MK suggests that any orders issued to J.S. Lane should be copied to the Dept. of Environmental Protection. DEP may be the best regulatory authority to take action if reported wetlands violations have occurred.
Board agrees to contact the Building Inspector and facilitate actions regarding the J.S. Lane neighbor’s complaints and invites Joe to next week’s meeting for an update. Board thanks Joe and his neighbors for attending tonight’s meeting.
7:30 PM: Gordon Soule asks the Board for an update on Lycott Environmental and the Mill Pond weed removal. AA responds that there has been no contact with Lycott since last summer but that he would call and get an update.
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 Land Court clears the title and awards it to the Town.
7:50 PM: Board reviews a MEMO from the Town Treasurer to the Fire Chief instructing the Chief that – per M.G.L. – only certain Town entities and the Treasurer are allowed to open bank accounts under the Town’s name. Apparently, Fire Chief Peter Skorput opened up an account bearing the Town’s name. The MEMO states that the Fire Dept. or any other town organization would need to obtain their own tax ID number and cannot use the Town’s. MK suggests that the Treasurer research and provide the Board with a list of any other unauthorized accounts. MK notes that the Audit Management Report makes note of these unauthorized accounts.
Board reviews and approves the Community Development Strategy as drafted by the AA and Berkshire Housing. This report is a component of the Senior Center grant application.
8:00 PM: ED reads the legal notice of Public Hearing for an All-Alcoholic Beverages on premises license for the West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club as published in the Berkshire Eagle.
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.
8:20 PM: There being no further discussion, ED makes a motion to approve the application and to close the Public Hearing. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
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 Shaker Mill Bridge have asked to attend next week’s Board meeting.
Board reviews a letter from Rep. Pignatelli requesting the Boards support in opposing slot machine legislation in Massachusetts. His letter states that slots will rob lottery distributions to cities and towns. Board will take the letter under advisement.
8:40 PM: Board reviews 5 submittals per a Request for Qualifications for owner’s project manager for the Village School Town Offices/Library conversion project. Firms submitting are: Maricor Corp., Diversified Project Management, Construction Monitoring Services, D.A. Sullivan, and Caolo&Bieniek. Board individually reviews submittals and scores each on a blind matrix grading experience in similar size and scope projects, familiarity with State codes and building requirements and ability to perform the required duties.
9:15 PM: Matrix scores for the 5 RFQ submittals are totaled and the highest score is awarded to Construction Monitoring Services, Inc. Based on everyone’s scored preferences, CW makes a motion to select Construction Monitoring Services. MK suggests that CMS be contacted and invited to attend a meeting with the Board to negotiate a services contract. EDM should also be informed of the Board’s choice for project manager. EDM and CMS will be working closely throughout the project.
9:20 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_____________________ ______________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: _____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
February 27, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
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.
8:20 PM: Board returns to open session.
MK makes a motion to appoint Officer Matt Kelly to the position of full-time police officer effective immediately. This appointment will run until June 30, 2006. Between now and June 30, 2006, the Board and Officer Kelly will negotiate on a contract not to exceed 3 years effective July 1, 2006. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor. MK notes that a letter of the appointment and an explanation of the vote should be sent to the Chief of Police.
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 12PM – 1PM at the Village School for firms interested in submitting Requests for Qualifications for Owner’s Project Manager for the Village School/Town Offices/Library conversion project.
Continuation of the Scenic Mt. Act Public Hearing will be held at 7:30 PM at Village School on March 6th.
A Public Hearing on the Senior Center grant application will be held on March 6th at 7:00 PM at the Village School.
A Public Hearing to act on a liquor license application from the West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club is scheduled for March 13th at 8:00 PM.
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 West Stockbridge Agricultural Commission: Russ Fadding; John Springstube; Victor Stannard, Sr. And as alternates: Don Wood and Mark Fadding. It is understood that the formation of an Ag Commission needs to be approved at a Town Meeting but the members could get a head start on related activities. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
9:15 PM: CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_________________________ __________________________
Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen Meeting Minutes
February 13, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
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 Senior Center project. Mr. McAllister presents 2 building options for the senior center expansion. Option B shows the expansion to the east; Option A shows the addition to the south towards the little league field. Following a discussion, the Board agrees that the expansion should be designed to go out the back of the building towards the baseball field (Option A), in order to avoid any sideline conflicts with the neighbors on the east side of the property.
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.
7:00 PM: Russ Fadding addresses the Board regarding a meeting held last week about the formation of an agricultural commission for the Town. CW also attended the meeting. This meeting was organized by Pete Westover of the State Agricultural Commission and is the first step in forming a Commission. The Commission may, at a later date, propose a “right to farm by-law” for town meeting approval. Mr. Fadding offers the names of 3 people who would serve on the Commission. The Board will take the nominees under advisement and will make their decision at the next Board meeting. The Board also agrees to sponsor a town meeting article for the formation of an agricultural commission.
7:20 PM: Town Accountant Maryellen Brown addresses the Board about her pending retirement as Business Mgr. for the S. Berkshire Regional School District on March 31, 2006. Because of rules under the Berkshire County Retirement system, Ms. Brown states that she will have to also resign from her Town Accountant position in W. Stockbridge for a short period. She proposes to retire from W. Stockbridge on February 28, 2006 and asks that she be re-appointed on April 3, 2006 to serve out her previous 3-year appointment which runs through June 2008.
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 February 28, 2006. AA asks that the Town Accountant write a new letter of resignation and address it and deliver it to the Town Clerk rather than the Selectmen.
Other Items:
Board reviews updated materials from EDM re: the Village School conversion to town offices and library space. AA informs the Board that the RFQ for the required Owner’s Project Manager has been advertised in the Berkshire Eagle and the Central Register with a due date of March 13th. Board discusses financing options and how the Town can pay for the proposed construction. AA is instructed to have the Treasurer research borrowing options and return to the Board with multiple scenarios. Following a discussion, MK agrees that it would be best to wait until the Annual Town Meeting to make a presentation to the Town and to act on an article for funding the construction. There really isn’t enough time to schedule a Special Town Meeting before the annual, plus the annual meeting seems more appropriate. Plus, it would give more time for the FinCom, in their capacity as the Borrowing Committee, to discuss options with the Town Treasurer.
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 Springfield.
Board reviews a fire alarm repair proposal received from Alarms of Berkshire County to repair the system at Village School. Previously, the Fire Chief had asked the Board to look into getting the system repaired because of a problem with the phone line connected to the system. MK recuses himself from the discussion because he is an employee of the company making the proposal. Following a discussion, CW makes a motion to approve the quote of $591 for the repairs. CW reminds the Board that the system was installed in the early 1970’s and may not be able to be repaired because parts are no longer available. A new fire alarm system would be included in the school renovation package but the building is without a working alarm system at present and needs to be fixed, if possible. ED seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
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 Town Cemetery tree removal is reasonable but that the appropriation should not be included in the overall Tree Warden budget. The Board will support the appropriation but it will appear following the Cemetery Dept. budget and will be controlled by the Board with feedback from both the Cemetery Commission and the Tree Warden. MK instructs the AA to inform the Tree Warden of same.
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.
8:20 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
February 6, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
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 Village School conversion project. Nearly every office use will have approximately twice the floor space as exists in the old Town Hall including the Library.
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 Village School conversion project. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
7:20 PM: Vic Stannard and Brian Zanconato address the Board re: getting a new liquor license for the West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club. They will meet with the AA and review the application.
7:30 PM: Jonathon Lane, representing John S. Lane Co. is present at the request of the Board to discuss gravel bed operations.
Mr. Lane presents a map of the quarry operations and the long range quarrying plans including blasting and rock removal. The plan is to remove the high rock walls for safety reasons at the northeast end towards Miller Lane and to construct a berm in its place as a buffer to the neighborhood. Operations are currently about 150’ from property lines at this end of the quarry. Pine tree seedlings would be planted atop the berm.
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, Mr. Lane states that there is no way to eliminate dust in a quarry operation.
Ray Boulder, operations engineer for J.S. Lane outlines the long range quarrying plans. He reminds everyone that the site has been in continuous operation for 100 years and it could be another 100 years before the site is played out and restored. He says that the high rock walls need to come down for safety reasons. Eventual restoration of the site would result in a re-claimed slope of 2:1 achieved in 20 incremental lifts.
Mr. Lane states that it is his goal to get along with neighborhood and the Town and pledges to involve Town officials and neighbors in future plans and operations.
Mr. Lane notes that 150,000 tons of stone were removed and sold at the site this past year. Gravel beds are cyclical operations closely tied to the construction industry.
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. Mr. Lane responds, no.
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.
Mr. Lane pledges to sit with the ConsCom to discuss future. Mr. Lane states that he wishes to leave the quarry property that is better for the neighborhood than when he found it.
CW asks what the operation season of the quarry is. Mr. Lane says that a typical season runs from April through November.
In response to a question, Mr. Lane states that there were 44 blasts this past year. All of them were well below the legal threshold for seismograph readings. Joe Roy suggests that the regulation should be changed because every blast still shakes his house.
MK thanks Mr. Lane for attending the meeting. The purpose of tonight’s meeting was to put Lane, neighbors and Town officials in the same room for a discussion and there was a good exchange of information.
Mr. Lane, in response to a question, states that his company recently purchases 77 acres across the street from the present operation but that his company has no immediate plans for the area.
8:25 PM: Mark Skokol, S&K Design, delivers a check for $16,750 to the Board. This check represents payment for 5 additional house lot sales. This money, along with previous payments, is per Special Permit agreement which will fund the paving of roads in the Silver Mine sub-division.
8:40 PM: CW discusses Honor Roll and how military active duty servicemen’s names are entered. An Honor Roll Committee first needs to be formed. That group is then charged with determining which and how the names will be placed. CW nominates Bob Korte to head up the Committee. Board agrees and instructs the AA to research the regulations for same.
8:45 PM: Board sets March 6, 2005 at 7:00 PM for the continuation of the previously opened Scenic Mt. Act Public Hearing for the purpose of adopting a map. The notice should appear in the newspaper.
8:50 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_______________________ ______________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ________________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
January 30, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; Village School
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.
No permits before the Board.
7:00 PM: Moderator Gene Dellea opens the scheduled Special Town Meeting.
Town Clerk Tina Skorput Cooper reads the warrant and returns to service. Town Clerk keeps the record for the Special Town Meeting.
7:20 PM: After acting on the 3 articles, Moderator Gene Dellea closes the Special Town Meeting. The Board reconvenes their regular open meeting.
Other Items: Board reads a letter from BHRSD Supt. Donna Moyer detailing the FY ’07 budget meeting schedule for the District. Board will consider whether the Superintendent and School Committee representatives will be requested to attend a future Board meeting to discuss the budget as offered by Superintendent Moyer.
Board changes their next meeting with EDM Architects from 2-1-06 to 2-6-06 at 6:30 PM at Village School to discuss Village School conversion plans and budget. Library Trustees have been informed.
Board notes the FinCom meeting correction. They will meet next on 2-15-06.
AA informs the Board that John S. Lane will attend the 2-6-06 Board meeting at 7:30 PM to discuss John S. Lane gravel business operations. Board will invite Joe Roy as representative of the neighbor’s group along with the ConsCom, Board of Health, Planning Board, Zoning Enforcement Officer and the Building Inspector.
AA informs the Board that Fire Chief Peter Skorput has found the fire alarm system at the Village School to be in poor operating condition because of problems with the Verizon phone line connection. Verizon has not responded to his repeated calls and the Chief suggests that the Board investigate hooking the system through a private alarm system company. Board agrees. In the spirit of full disclosure AA informs Selectman MK that the alarm company that he is associated with would be one of the companies called for a quote. MK states that he would abstain from discussions and decisions made regarding the alarm system.
CW passes along a discussion that he and the Town Clerk have had with an attorney representing a property owner on Harris Street regarding the ambiguous state of Spencer Road, Harris Street and Harris Street Extension. Records seem to indicate that Harris Street is a Town road. Spencer Street and Harris Street Extension appear to be private ways. The landowner wishes to establish legal frontage on Spencer Road. The Board decides that the situation would be better addressed by the Planning Board who is charged with Zoning and street frontage issues.
8:10 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ ______________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
January 23, 2006
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Michael Kirchner (MK) unable to attend. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
6:35 PM: Tim Eagles, EDM Engineers, shows updated schematic plans for Village School space conversion to Town Offices and Library. The plans are somewhat more refined from the last version and are the plans that have been sent to a professional cost estimator. Tim will be back to meet with the Board on Feb. 1 at 6:30 PM to present budget estimates for the project.
Tim explains that current bathroom space will be sufficient for the expansion, although they will be updated and become code compliant. He suggests leaving the 2 functioning lavatories in the basement as is.
Tim discusses State guidelines for Town Vaults. A space in the basement has been designated for the vault and will be fireproofed to a 2 hour rating, as will be the remainder of the building.
EDM will lay out parking and drive to rear of building as a bid alternative.
There will be radiant hot water heat along the outside walls of the renovated space with make-up air units on the ceiling for fresh air and air conditioning.
In response to a question, the Board instructs EDM to include make-up air and sprinklers in the police station.
Plans show replacing all of the windows in the building except in the space designated for senior center.
EDM will include a budget figure for furnishings. It can be decided later on whether and what type of furnishings would be bid in the project. Furniture for the Library and Town Offices will be treated separately
In response to a question about how the project is going to be funded, CW says that once the estimates are received from EDM, the Board will seek the advice of the FinCom and the Investment Committee and come up with a plan.
7:45 PM: Bill Kie presents his FY ’07 Tree Warden budget to the Board. Mr. Kie says that a plan has to be developed to remove the mature trees from the Town cemeteries. They are weak, dangerous and costly to remove when they fall down. He proposes adding a separate line item to the budget for cemetery tree removal at $7,500 per year. This would take care of removing 5 or so trees per year, depending on size. Mr. Kie points out that the Selectmen had sent him a letter over the summer instructing him that it was the Tree Warden’s responsibility to remove fallen trees from the Town cemeteries. He says that he will do anything the Board tells him to do but the Tree Warden budget will have to be increased to reflect that added requirement.
A question is asked about whether Perpetual Care interest can or should be used to remove these trees. CW notes that it would be a reasonable expense to do so but he would like to conduct a survey of surrounding towns to see how they deal with removing trees.
The base Tree Warden budget request for FY ’07 is $11,465, up from $9,270 in the current year. Mr. Kie states that it is a substantial increase from the year before but still is woefully inadequate to deal with all of the dead and dying trees along Town ways.
ED and CW thank Mr. Kie for his presentation and for the thoroughness of his budget proposals.
8:15 PM: Mr. Kie makes a formal complaint to the Board regarding the Cemetery Commissioners. He states that his uncle was buried in the wrong grave and needs to be moved. The Commissioners are responsible for marking graves and a mistake was made that needs to be corrected before the estate of his uncle can be settled. Mr. Kie states that he has been unsuccessful in dealing with Chairman Stuart Kuller to resolve the matter. The grave needs to be dug up and moved to the adjacent plot. Mr. Kie states that he has been trying to get this resolved for the past 18 months. The Board takes note of his complaint and will pass it along to the elected Cemetery Commission.
8:30 PM: Peter Skorput, Fire Chief, speaks to the Board about the need to replace the Town’s pumper fire vehicle. It is a front line vehicle and was built in 1974 and was refurbished in the mid-1980’s. It is getting old and needs to be replaced. The replacement cost will be approximately $310,000. Peter suggests beginning a fire vehicle replacement trust account at the next annual meeting with an appropriation of $50,000. He says that the Department has been applying for a federal fire equipment grant for the past few years but has been unsuccessful; the grant is very competitive. The Department will continue to apply for the grant but if the fund can be started and added to for a few years, it would reduce the pain of buying the new vehicle if it becomes necessary in a few years. Board agrees to take the Chief’s plan under advisement and will consider placing such an article on the annual town meeting warrant.
Other Items: Dominick Luchi requests that his son’s name be placed on the Town’s War Veteran’s Monument. His son has just returned from 18 month’s active duty in Iraq. CW suggests that Dominick speak with Bob Korte who will help him out in getting the name placed on the monument.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
AA informs the Board that he, as the Town’s representative, will attend a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) meeting on Feb. 2nd at 7:00 PM in Gt. Barrington.
Board reviews letters to be sent to J. S. Lane quarry and Town Counsel in response to neighbor’s complaints about the quarry operations. Mr. Lane has been asked to attend a future Board meeting.
Board discusses the upcoming Special Town Meeting on 1-30 and requests that the Town Clerk be prepared for a secret ballot vote.
Fire Chief Skorput asks that the Board consider contacting an alarm company to take over the system at the Village School. The alarms are currently wired through the Verizon phone system and it is not working well and the Chief is having a difficult time with Verizon trying to get the matter resolved. Board agrees.
9:10 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ ____________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
January 9, 2006
6:00 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). Derek Gentile; Berkshire Eagle.
Tim Eagles, EDM Engineers, gives the Board an update on Town Offices/Library plans for conversion of Village School space. Board discusses Board/EDM meeting schedule. Next meeting will be 1-18 because of Monday holiday. Next meeting after that will be 2-1-06.
EDM will be charged with developing outside treatments, including: drive and parking layout, pedestrian and recreation flows.
Tim shows the Board the revised plans with the Senior Center space and Library space reversed from previous schemes. Library has expanded to approx. 1,870 sq; ft. with approx. 840 sq. ft. of undesignated future space.
Board and EDM discuss driveway and parking to the rear of the building. These items should be applied for under the Senior Center grant. AA to inform Clark and Green Architects, Senior Center designers.
At the 2-1-06 meeting, EDM will supply project cost estimates based on current plans. Library Trustees to be invited to that meeting.
Tim Eagles is instructed to cooperate and exchange information with Clark and Green. Clark and Green will be advised of the same action.
7:00 PM: Tom Tenuta, owner of Village Oven, speaks to the Board about what permissions and processes need to be followed if he was to expand his restaurant into the space next door. Following a discussion, Board suggests that he run down and meet with the Planning Board tonight and seek their advice since the business is operating under a Special Permit. The Selectmen express no concerns with expanding the operation but a change to their Special Permit might be required through the Planning Board.
7:10 PM: Other Items:
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
Board discusses burning permit procedures.
7:30 PM: Joe Roy, Jr., Miller Lane, and approximately 9 neighborhood residents, are present to discuss John S. Lane gravel bed operations.
Ann Roy reads an opening statement which outlines the neighborhoods concerns focusing on the encroachment of operations on the neighborhood and its negative impact. It has been a very loud and dusty summer in the neighborhood.
Joy Roy reads a letter into the record detailing the history of John S. Lane operations. This letter was previously furnished to the Board (attached). In summary, the letter states that conditions in the neighborhood have changed dramatically in the past year or so. Prior to that time, the gravel bed and the neighbors have coexisted relatively peacefully. It appears that operations have expanded and are closing in on nearby homes.
Several questions are asked that the Board will research and get back to the group with answers. Joe Roy will be the contact person for the group.
Q. Does Lane need a permit every time they blast?
Q. Why don’t they blow the warning whistle anymore before they blast and an all-clear signal when blasting is completed?
Q. Can the W. Stockbridge Conservation Commission be contacted to investigate potential wetlands violations on Lane property?
Q. Can Town Counsel be contacted for their opinion on zoning and other issues, including a potential change in primary use on the property?
Q. Can Lane be stopped from cutting trees on their property that act as a buffer between the operations and the neighbors?
Several additional observations are made by the neighbors, including:
Change in use. Since town-wide zoning was adopted in the early 1970’s, the site has changed from a lime processing plant to a mining/gravel retail operation.
Will the property be reclaimed once all the gravel is mined? Is there a reclamation plan on record with the Town?
Is Lane now selling topsoil stripped from expanded mining operations?
Since the quarry operations seem to be expanding, can that expansion be considered a more non-conforming use of the pre-zoning property?
It appears that Lane is pumping water from some of the gravel mining operations. That water ends up in the adjacent Williams River.
It appears that mining operations are taking place within the mapped wetlands buffer zone.
It is decided that the Board will write a letter to John S. Lane corporate headquarters in Westfield, Ma and invite representatives to a meeting with the Board and the neighbors to discuss operation and neighborhood concerns. Additionally, Town Counsel will be instructed to review zoning and related issues. Also, the ConsCom will be asked to investigate possible wetlands encroachments or violations. Board pledges to invite the neighborhood group back to a meeting as soon as it gets some more information. Board thanks Joe and the group for attending.
8:20 PM: Norwin and Joan Rehm address the Board re: Senior Center. Mr. Rehm begins to show his plans for the space and is told that a professional architect has been hired to design the project as is required by the granting authority. The architect will be speaking with the COA and any other interested parties as he develops the plans. Joan says that the current 2,700 sq. ft. allocated is not big enough. She wants the space to be 3,200 sq. ft. CW explains that he has been told by both the architect and the head of the COA in Boston that current sq. ft. construction costs range between $200-$250. Additionally, the Board has been told by the grant writers (Berkshire Housing and Development Corp.) that under the current grant award, any project larger than 2,700 sq. ft. will exceed the grant award. The Rehms insist that the space must be at least 3,200 sq. ft.
8:30 PM: There being no further business to discuss, MK makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ _______________________ ________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: _______________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
December 19, 2005
6:00 PM: Open Meeting; Village School
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Tim Eagles, EDM Engineers, discusses his firm’s work to date on designing Town Offices and Library space at the Village School. Tim offers 2 different schemes; one with the proposed senior center towards the front entrance of the building and the other showing the library and senior center at the rear of the building.
Following a discussion, the Board agrees that the proposed Senior Center and Library space should be at the back of the building. This design will afford 50% more space to the Library and twice as much square footage than their present location in the Town Hall and will mitigate handicap access concerns for both the Library and Senior Center. This layout also provides ample space and good flow for proposed Town Offices space.
EDM will conduct a final interview with Town officers to discuss office layouts and space. EDM will continue their design work and will next meet with the Board on January 4, 2006 at 6:00 PM. At that point, EDM hopes to be able to provide rough project cost estimates and options for the front entrance design. MK reiterates the Board’s desire to continue forward at a steady pace and to schedule a Special Town Meeting as soon as is practicable to seek funding for the design of the Senior Center, Town Offices and Library and construction of the Town Offices and Library space conversion. The Board notes that conversion of the Town Offices space is the priority. Funding outcomes or changes to the designated space of the Library or Senior Center will not impact the Town Offices designated space.
The Board is pleased with EDM’s design and efforts to date and thanks Mr. Eagles for his presentation.
Other Items: Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Following a review of the weekly payroll warrant, CW notes that Police Officer Simonelli has been working 20 hours per week for the past few weeks. Board instructs AA to remind the Chief that 20 or more hours a week constitutes full time employment and status. Officer Simonelli is a part-time Town employee and by virtue of his training cannot act as a full-time police officer. A continuous pattern of working 20 or more hours per week, no matter what the source of funding is, makes the employee full-time and triggers health insurance, retirement and training implications and requirements.
Building Inspector Jim Vosburgh and Asst. Building Inspector Walter Potash are present and discuss Section 12 liquor license (serving on premises) holders and the Town’s inspection obligations under the new requirements as specified in Chapter 304 of the Acts of 2004. Jim Vosburgh is instructed to coordinate with Fire Chief Peter Skorput to make sure that all Section 12 establishments be inspected and issued a certificate prior to December 31, 2005. Failure to do so will jeopardize renewal of those annual liquor licenses.
Jim Vosburgh discusses the Shaker Mill Tavern and his concerns that the building should be sprinklered from a building code position. There is some confusion as to what the seating capacity is at the Tavern and how that might effect certification under the new fire safety law (Chapter 304 of the Acts of 2004). Jim will contact the Shaker Mill Tavern owners to arrange for an inspection then report back to the Board. MK tells Jim Vosburgh that the Board will support his findings and recommendations providing that those findings and recommendations are supported by Building Code and or MGL.
AA informs the Board that the owner of the Pleasant Valley Motel is interested in paying for a portion of the cost of expanding either or both of the Town’s sewer and water lines to the motel to facilitate a proposed expansion. The matter is referred to the Sewer and Water Commissioners to discuss at their January meeting.
AA offers the Board a tax rate impact year to year summary which outlines the 2005- 2006 changes in Town property values, tax rate, average tax bills, raise and appropriation spending, etc. DOR approval of a 2006 tax rate of $10.74 is expected by next week. The current (2005) tax rate is $14.84.
Board reviews and approves annual liquor license renewals pending assurance from the Town Collector that all applicants are current with Town fees and taxes and that all applicants are in compliance with Chapter 304 of the Acts of 2004 (fire safety).
7:50 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ _____________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: __________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
December 12, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; Village School.
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 (with corrections to gasoline bill) weekly warrants.
CW would prefer that the monthly Police Dept. work schedule show the names of officers on duty rather than just their rank designations. Otherwise, it is difficult to track hours worked in order to stay compliant with full-time versus part-time rules. Furthermore, it is helpful to see who’s on duty during the snow season. Board agrees. AA to forward a note to the Chief.
7:10 PM: Resident John Pons addresses the Board on a number of items that concern him. First, Mr. Pons discusses the Lenox Mt. Road R.O.A. and Town land versus his land in front of his house. The lawn/brush area on the street side of his house is actually Town land and the Town should take care of it. Large stones get kicked out by traffic in this area – one of which caused him injury back in 1969. Mr. Pons has written 3 letters over the years to the Selectmen about the area and none have been responded to.
Mr. Pons is also unhappy with the design of the Swamp Rd./Main St./Lenox Mt. Road intersection. He states that the Planning Board should have been advised when the intersections was re-designed back in 1992.
MK notes that the intersection was designed by MassHighway engineers with the work done by the Town’s Highway Dept. A thorough study was conducted in response to safety concerns at the intersection. The intersection is safer now than before the re-design when cars shot through from several directions. Now, they are forced to slow down.
Mr. Pons makes note that Town trucks plow snow into his driveway during storms. Also, when road salt is applied, the snow turns to slush and that gets plowed into his driveway and it is difficult to remove with his snow blower. He suggests that the Town take down the retaining wall near his house to make plowing and traveling easier.
Mr. Pons then has questions about the most recent audit report. On page 25, he asks why “the government has elected not to follow subsequent private-sector guidance” regarding enterprise funds. MK notes that the previous sentence states that following such private sector guidance is optional, not required. However, the Town’s auditors can be contacted for clarification. Mr. Pons states that he has found mistakes made by the auditors.
Mr. Pons asks why Article 12 at the 2002 Annual Town Meeting was published in the Town Report but did not appear on the Annual Town Meeting warrant for the May meeting. MK explains that the Town Report is necessarily printed long before the Annual Town Meeting and that the final warrant is not posted until a week before the actual meeting. There are often changes between the Town Report and the Annual Town Meeting warrant – which is signed by the Selectmen and is the official document used for the meeting.
Mr. Pons ends by reciting a list of his medical conditions and medications for which he spends $3,000 per year.
The Board thanks Mr. Pons for attending the meeting.
7:55 PM: Mark Scocco, SK Design, gives 2 checks for $3,350 each per prior agreement for paving of the sub-division roadway known as Silvermine Rd.
Other Items: Discussion about d.b.a.’s and registering local businesses with the Town Clerk. Town Clerk Tina Skorput Cooper notes that some businesses are registered with her office and some are not and others were but have expired. MK suggests that a reminder be sent to local business by the Town Clerk asking them to register with her office. Tina agrees.
Board reviews and approves 2006 Class II, III and miscellaneous license renewals.
Board members are given copies of the just completed building survey of the Town Hall. Joel Hotchkiss was also given a copy.
Board reviews the Senior Center design/grant application timeline. AA will host a walk through for architects this Friday at the Village School.
AA notes that all paperwork has been submitted to the DOR for free cash certification. The State should complete its approval sometime before the end of the calendar year.
AA informs the Board that Animal Control Officer Martin Clark called the other day to say that he will be retiring June 30, 2006. He will ask around and make recommendations to the Board for a replacement, if he can find anyone interested.
AA gives a copy of a MEMO given to the Building Inspector and copied to the Fire Chief about the urgency of conducting inspections of Section 12 liquor license holders before the end of the year. This is the 3rd written reminder issued. AA has contacted each Section 12 license holder by phone and informed them that they have to coordinate with the Building Inspector and Fire Chief to get inspected. Otherwise, the Board of Selectmen cannot renew their licenses for Jan. 1, 2006.
Board has a general discussion about the reappointment of appointed Town officer and officials.
8:40 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_______________________ _______________________ _____________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
December 5, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; Village School.
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Absent: Michael Kirchner (unable to attend). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
No permits before the Board.
6:50 PM: Mary Korte, resident and Senior Center Steering Committee member, delivers a letter to the Board stating her concerns with the operation of the Council on Aging, Greater Years and the direction of the proposed Senior Center. Mary asks that the letter be read into the record at the upcoming Special Town Meeting seeking an appropriation for the Senior Center design costs tied to the Senior Center grant application.
Mary thinks that 2 classrooms in the Village School and utilization of the current kitchen facilities would be adequate space and less costly. CW replies that the proposed 2,100 sq. ft. design was sent to the Selectmen by the Steering Committee. If Town Meeting approves the architectural fees and the grant is approved, then the grant program will dictate the specifics of the layout – including a new kitchen.
ED asks why the Greater Years and Council on Aging couldn’t merge and join forces. CW notes that the Greater Years is a private organization while the COA is public and receives most of its funding from public funding. The Board could suggest, but not insist that the 2 organizations come together as one.
The Board thanks Mary for attending the meeting.
7:10 PM: Other business:
Board review liquor license renewals but will wait a week to act on them to give the Fire Chief and Building Inspector additional time to issue required certificates of inspection to the Section 12 licenses.
Board reviews the BHRSD October 20005 Student Census which shows the headcount for each of the classes for the 3 District towns. West Stockbridge has a total of 117 students per the FY ’07 count; up 1 from the current year.
Board agrees to attend the MIIA Annual Meeting in Boston on January 14.
Board reviews Compactor fees for both disposable goods and for commercial accounts. Board will continue a review and may adjust the rates which haven’t been reviewed for a few years.
Board reviews revised Scenic Mt. Act language as offered by the Conservation Commission. The Board will pass along an opinion on the revised language to the ConsCom.
Board grants permission to the Card Lake Inn to stay open for extended hours on New Year’s Eve and issues a Special Permit for amplified music for the same evening.
8:30 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes accepted by:
______________________ _____________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton
Date: __________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
November 28, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; Village School
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.
§ Board signs emergency alarm permit for Singer.
§ Board signs liquor license transfer for P. J. Hunt; Williams River Store.
§ Board will pass along request from Ann Roy to Bob Powell (Parks and Rec) to use a classroom for a meeting on 12/11.
§ Board approves a MEMO to Parks and Recreation requesting periodic schedules of use for the school and gym.
§ Board approves request from Berkshire Country Day School to use Village School gym weekdays from 2:30 – 4:30 for b-ball practice for the month of December.
§ Board gives a MEMO to FinCom Chair Carol Kuller re: working together during the upcoming FY 2007 budget season. Carol passes out minutes from the recent FinCom meeting. Board and Carol discuss highlights of those minutes. All agree to work together to address budget issues in a cooperative and timely manner.
§ Carol Kuller asks if the annual $1,000 appropriation to the Arts Lottery Council can be moved over to the FY ’06 Arts Lottery account. AA to facilitate.
§ Carol Kuller notes that accommodations are being made on the stage area of Town Hall to fit in both the Board of Health and Cable TV workspaces. Carol asks the Board to look into PEG fees that may or may not be due to the Town. Other communities receive substantial annual fees from their cable provider for local access TV.
§ AA informs the Board that the Shaker Mill Tavern will be renewing their liquor license for 2006. ED asks if the Board of Health has done an inspection recently on the food service areas of the Shaker Mill. AA will ask the Health Inspector.
§ Board reviews a MEMO from Town Treasurer Bruce Turner giving an update on the taking of the Hill property, State Line Road. The Town’s counsel in the taking is seeking a waiver from Land Court which will speed up the taking process.
§ Board reviews a timeline for the Senior Center RFQ and designer selection process. RFQ’s will be available in 1 week.
§ AA informs the Board that professional inspection services have been contracted for the Town Hall, per Town Hall Study Committee.
§ Board discusses December meeting schedule. Board will not meet the week of 12/26 and will meet on 1/4 not 1/2.
§ Board reviews a MEMO updating activities at the Berkshire Truck Plaza. According to the trustee for the property, another 1 ½ to 2 years of environmental remediation and testing will be necessary before DEP can be satisfied that the property is clean.
§ Board requests a December police staffing schedule from Chief Cooper.
8:00 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_______________________ _______________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: __________
Board of Selectmen Meeting Minutes
November 21, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
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. Board notes 3 line items that appear to have incorrect balances (tax collector expenses, town hall trust and arts lottery council). Town Accountant will be instructed to review and make corrections if warranted.
Other Items: New police officer Matt Kelly drops of a medical clearance report from his physician. Copy to be given to Chief of Police.
ED instructs AA to get an update from the Town Treasurer on the status of land court action on the Hill property.
Board discusses annual liquor license renewal process and timeline. CW will contact Sportsmen’s Club management and let them know that the Board needs their Change of Manager paperwork to be submitted before their license can be renewed. Shaker Mill Tavern will be asked for an update on their future plans for utilizing their current license.
Board agrees to the meeting dates as provided by EDM for review of schematic plans for conversion of Village School to Town Offices and Library.
Board reviews timeline, as provided by Berkshire Housing, for all of the necessary steps leading up to a grant application submittal for a Senior Center and agrees that it can be met. Board instructs AA to continue with the process. A note will be sent to the Senior Center Advisory Committee providing an update. Board notes that a Special Town Meeting will need to be called sometime in January to seek an appropriation for design services.
AA notes that DOR will be in Town Hall next Wednesday to assist in setting the FY 2006 tax rate.
Board instructs AA to get a MEMO to the FinCom re: an update on the FY 2007 budget timeline, process, potential joint meeting dates, etc. Selectmen will begin deliberating budget submittals and coordinate activities with the FinCom.
Board reviews the recommendation received from the Town Hall Study Committee for a professional building inspection by William Stephens for an estimated price of $800. Board accepts the recommendation and will contact Mr. Stephens and get him started and inform the Committee of same.
AA to attend two meetings on 12-1 as representative of Board. 1st is in Gt. Barrington at 4:00 regarding a renewable energy grant and the 2nd is in Lee @7:00 with Berkshire Regional Planning.
CW offers 3 driveway permits for the Board to review. Following a discussion and with the recommendation of the Highway Supt. the Board approves the applications.
8:30 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
______________________ _______________________ ________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: _______________
Board of Selectmen Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; Village School.
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.
Ogden Gigli inquires on the status of West Center Rd. paving project. When will the road shoulders be completed? The conditions are unsafe for vehicles.
Highway Supt. Curt Wilton responds that he had attempted to contact Ogden last week to give him an update but didn’t connect. The shoulder work will be completed shortly. One of highway trucks being used for the project was being repaired and is now fixed.
Mr. Gigli then asks if anything can be done about dump trucks from construction sites muddying up the new pavement when leaving work sites. CW responds that most contractors are responsible about cleaning off their tires before entering Town roads but that he will speak to any offenders. MK suggests that the Town could investigate a process where a bond is required for new driveway construction. Then the Town could go after the bonding company if driveway problems impact Town roads.
Other Items: CW notes that the Town did not suffer reimbursable damages under the MEMA Storm Relief Program from the October rain storms. Area towns did have damage but West Stockbridge roads and bridges were spared.
CW gives the AA a corrected driveway permit to be included in the building permit application package.
Board approves the FY 2007 budget request forms for distribution to Department Heads and others.
MK asks that Departmental annual reports be limited to 1-2 pages this year.
Board approves an Inventory List for distribution to Department Heads. The Town is required to keep an inventory list of all equipment with a value of $5,000 or greater to be GASB compliant.
Board discusses a letter received from Planning Board Chair D. Bixby re: Certificates of Occupancy. Board approves a MEMO to the Building Inspector requesting an update on homes that should have a C of O and do not. MEMO will be CC’s to Planning Board.
Board reviews a proposal from EDM Engineers for services related to designing Town offices and Library at the Village School. The proposal is broken out into schematic design services, construction documents and project management.
MK suggests that if the go ahead is given now, then EDM could have the schematic designs finished in time to go to Town meeting in January/February to seek funding for the whole project. EDM should be able to generate a project cost from completed schematics. MK adds that BHRSD is looking into its records to see if a previously done asbestos study for Village School can be found. If the report can be produced, then it would save the Town from commissioning a new one.
Following further discussion, MK makes a motion to approve the EDM proposal with an initial expense of $19,800 for schematic designs. The total for all design services through construction is $110,900. But tonight’s vote would limit the spending to the $19,800 amount (from Town Hall trust account). Further appropriation would be required for the balance of architectural services if the project continued to go forward. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0. ED signs the proposal.
MK suggests taking an inventory of all equipment located in the old Town Hall and the Village School. Time and money would be saved if it was known early on what furniture and equipment could be reused and what had to be purchased. Board agrees. A MEMO will be sent to Department Heads.
BOS discusses putting 3-phase electric power into the Village School to update the current single phase. It will allow the emergency generator to become automatic in the event of power failure. Today, the generator has to be switched on manually. Also, 3-phase will likely be required if the ventilation system is modified in the building.
Board has a discussion about annual liquor license renewals. It is noted that a licensed premises that has not be in active use for the past 12 months cannot be issued a renewal.
MK asks AA to check with Tom Webb again at Berkshire Housing to get an update on the timeline requirements for the next round of Senior Center grant application.
7:45 PM: Fire Chief Peter Skorput addresses the Board regarding the new fire inspection requirement for businesses with liquor licenses. Premises need to be inspected and a certificate issued before the liquor license renewal applications can be returned to the ABCC at the end of December. Inspection certificate forms have been provided to the Chief.
Chief Skorput notes that Engine #2 will be out of service for a week or so for repairs. Richmond VFD will be notified for backup.
Chief Skorput notes that there hasn’t been any word yet on the status of the Department’s grant application for a new vehicle.
Chief Skorput asks if all of the Selectmen are NIMS compliant. All Board members and AA have taken and passed the NIMS test and have received certificates.
8:00 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_______________________ _______________________ ________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
November 7, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; Village School
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.
Board approves a building permit for L. Tonini, Maple Hill Rd.
AA informs the Board that a proposal for architectural services and project management for the Village School conversion from EDM is expected later this week.
AA informs the Board that this year’s MassPike Tourism grant deadline is 12-21-05 and asks the Board to be thinking of what type of project they’d like to apply for. MK suggests downtown renovations, including sidewalks and period lighting.
7:00 PM: Special Town Meeting is called to order. Town Clerk reads the Greeting. Moderator for the meeting is Joe Roy. A quorum is present.
Joe reads the articles individually. Public comment is asked for on each article. Carol Kuller asks what is the value associated with Article #2. MK answers that acceptance of the Article would improve the accounting of firearms permits.
All four articles are approved unanimously.
7:10 PM: Special Town Meeting is adjourned.
7:15 PM: ED reopens the Scenic Mt. Act Public Hearing originally opened on September 26, 2005 and turns the discussion over to John Masiero, co-chair of the Conservation Commission. Approximately 60 people are in attendance.
John provides a review of the process to date and recaps the events of past public hearings held by the ConsCom. John also presents several map revisions showing effective elevations from 1,300’ to 1,400’. Some versions include an impacted 15% slope area (shaded); others omit the slope area.
A question and answer period follows; ConsCom members John Masiero, Chris Williams and Peter Negrini field the questions. In order, the following persons ask questions or offer comment:
Joe Roy; Irene Skorput; Joel Hotchkiss; Sharon Vidal; Sheila Thunfors; David Bixby; Ogden Gigli; Sheila Thunfors; Mitch Greenwald; Harry Gallant; Louise Merlini; Ed Denham; Michael Kirchner; Carol Kuller; Peter Negrini; Michael Kirchner; David Bixby; Ogden Gigli; Joe Roy; Irene Skorput; Joel Hotchkiss; Curt Wilton; Mitch Greenwald; Mr. Springstube; Irene Skorput; Peter Negrini; Sheila Thunfors; Joe Roy; David Bixby; Chris Williams; Tom Ross; Carol Kuller; Mark Viola.
MK reminds the audience that the Scenic Mt. Act is here. Town Meeting accepted the Act a year and a half ago and now it’s a matter of coming up with the regulations and an acceptable map.
Mitch Greenwald commends the ConsCom for all of their work in getting to this point.
8:45 PM: ED makes a motion to continue the Public Hearing to a future, as yet to be determined date, in order to allow the ConsCom time to review their maps and regulations and to report back to the Selectmen. CW seconds the motion; vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Other Items: Matthew Kelly of Lee informs the Board that he plans to accept the position of full-time police officer. MK asks Mr. Kelly to complete his paperwork with the Chief and welcomes Mr. Kelly aboard.
Board instructs AA to request a November staffing schedule from the Chief of Police.
Board reviews a draft response to the FY 2004 audit management report. MK suggests a correction and Board approves the remainder which will be forwarded to the auditor and the FinCom.
8:55 PM: There being no further business before the Board, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_______________________ ______________________ ________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
October 31, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant Mark Webber (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
7:00 PM: Full-time Police officer candidate Matt Kelly addresses the Board regarding his offer of employment with the Town. He had a few questions regarding scheduling, on-call shifts, etc. MK responds that it is the Chief’s job to set the work schedule and other Department details. MK states that the Board does not want to micro-manage the police department. West Stockbridge is a strong chief town. MK tells Mr. Kelly that the Chief told the Board that he will contact Mr. Kelly tomorrow. Mr. Kelly thanks the Board and leaves.
7:05 PM: ED reads the Public Notice for the Annual Tax Classification Hearing as it appeared in the Berkshire Eagle. Present for the hearing are Assessors Irene Skorput, Amy Butterworth and Jennifer Wilton. ED asks the Assessors what their pleasure re: adopting a split or single tax rate. Irene responds that the Assessors, as in past years, propose a single tax rate for both residential and commercial properties. Irene notes that there are too few commercial properties in Town to allow for an equitable split in tax rates. ED makes a motion to adopt a single tax rate for 2006. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 6-0 in favor.
Other Items: Board reviews a sign permit application from Berkshire Natural Resources Council for the entry to Steven’s Glen recreation area. A letter accompanying the application admits that the proposed sign exceeds Town zoning. MK states that although the Board would like to help out, it should administer applicable sections of zoning evenly. If the sign does not conform, then the Board has no choice but to deny. ED and CW agree; application denied. The application will be returned to BNRC with a note that they could either reduce the size or appeal the Board’s decision with the ZBA.
CW notes that Tree Warden Bill Kie spoke informed him today that the Tree Warden’s FY ’06 budget is nearly spent. CW suggested that BK perform only emergency work for the remainder of the year. If the budget runs over, Mr. Kie would have to appeal to the FinCom for a Reserve Fund transfer. ED and MK agree.
MK asks the Board to review its position on the Scenic Mt. Act in anticipation of next week’s continued Public Hearing. It is noted that the ConsCom would be meeting on the subject this Thursday and that both ED and CW would attend that meeting. Board agrees that public comment from the ConsCom meeting and next week’s Public Hearing would have to weighed before the Board took a final position on the Act.
MK talks about the FY 2007 budget process. He would like to send out departmental budget request by 11-21 to get a head start on the season. Board agrees.
MK suggests that a MEMO in response to the FY 2005 audit management letter be formalized and passed along to the auditors and FinCom. Board agrees.
8:50 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
_______________________ _______________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
October 25, 2004
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: ED, CW
Greg Winters of Scanlon Auditors conducts the Town’s FY ’03 exit audit conference. Also present are: Bruce Turner, Treasurer; Maryellen Brown, Town Accountant; Jim Podolak, DOR/DLS agent.
Greg reviews the Management Report and notes that a previous year item has been corrected (sewer operation deficit). Five new comments appear. Four of them related to the Town’s requirement to adhere to GASB mandates and the fourth recommends that a deficit in the water construction account be corrected.
Greg then reviews the financial data and concludes that the Town has healthy cash reserves and is in healthy fiscal shape. Jim Podolak agrees with the auditor’s assessment. Greg then explains how the Town should go about meeting its GASB reporting requirements and makes suggestions on how best to correct the water capital deficit (appropriate water surplus to correct deficit).
7:00 PM: Board reviews a building permit from Dominick Luchi for Lot #2 in a project off of West Center Road. Board notes that all of the building permit application signatures had been obtained by Mr. Luchi back in September – with the exception of the ConsCom, Selectmen, and Building Inspector. The ConsCom signed off last week. Board approves permit application.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
7:30 PM: ED reads the Notice of Decision (attached) regarding the October 18, 2004 liquor license Public Hearing for the Sportsmen’s Club. Several directors from the Club along with their attorney Louis Oggiani are present. Those present and Attorney Oggiani thank the Board and vows to adhere to the Board’s decision and pledges to be good citizens in the future.
Other Items: Board review and approves a MEMO to the Planning Board seeking their input on zoning related questions that the Board has concerning a pending liquor license and restaurant application from LaBruschetta. The Board is unsure of the zoning application of 2 primary businesses at a single location and the assigning of sub addresses to a single location.
Board approves a letter to Stephen Graham regarding a dog complaint in the Iron Ore Road neighborhood.
Board reviews a contract proposal detailing a number of options on aquatic weed control at Mill Pond. Board agrees to contract with Lycott to draw up a Notice of Intent application to the Conservation Commission and to attend 2 public hearings.
Board reviews the just received transfer of property draft agreement which would convey the Astore “Quarry” property to the State Wildlife and Fisheries Department. Board notes that if Mr. Astore approves the transfers then it would be a benefit to all concerned – the Town and State gain needed recreation land, the state assumes the liability of the Quarry property and John Astore satisfies his wish to donate the property with the stipulation that it remain open to all to enjoy. Board will present the transfer document to Mr. Astore.
8:15 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_________________________ ____________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton
Date: _____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
October 17, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW) and Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant Mark Webber (AA). No press present.
6:35 PM: ED opens Public Hearing for transfer of Wine and Malt alcoholic beverage license from Williams River Country Store to L.A.H., LLC, P. J. Hunt, principal. ED reads the legal notice as it appeared in the 10-6-05 Berkshire Eagle.
Mr. Hunt states that he expected to keep operations the same as in the past.
No public comment is given.
MK wishes Mr. Hunt success and makes a motion to approve the transfer. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
6:45 PM: CW makes a motion to close the Public Hearing. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Other Items: ED asks Tina Skorput if her Town Clerk pay for last week had been received. Tina: yes. ED requests that Tina submit a weekly payroll sheet to the Town Accountant in the future to avoid any disruptions. ED says that she spoke with the Town Accountant in an effort to resolve an apparent problem between the Clerk and the Accountant re: payroll. MK states that everyone may now have to submit a payroll sheet on a weekly basis so that everyone is treated in the same manner. MK will keep his eye on the situation.
It is noted that William Kie had agreed at a Board meeting three weeks ago to remove the trailers and trucks from his lot at the corner of Rte. 102 and W. Center Road within 2 weeks. The vehicles are still there. MK suggests that the Chief of Police be given a request to send Mr. Kie an unregistered vehicle letter per the Town Junk Car by-law. Board agrees.
Board sets Trick or Treat for Halloween night (10-31) from 4-6 PM. Tina Skorput confirms that Parks and Recreation along with volunteers from the Fire Dept. will host a Halloween Parade with a party to follow at Village School beginning at 6:00 PM on October 29. Discussion follows on why both events aren’t on the same night. It is noted that the dates for both have never been consistent in the past and that the Board hears from angry parents no matter what date the 2 events are held. CW suggests that the Board take a position that Trick or Treat will always be on Halloween.
7:20 PM: Although an attempt was made to bring in registered voters, the Special Town Meeting scheduled for 7:00 PM this evening is cancelled due to a lack of quorum. Twenty registered voters are required; only 13 are present. Board votes to reschedule tonight’s Special Town Meeting for November 7, 2005 at 7:00 PM. The warrant remains the same.
Board sets November 7, 2005 at 7:30 PM as the continuation of the previously opened Public Hearing for the Scenic Mt. Act. The Berkshire Eagle will be notified of the 2 events. It is noted that the Eagle was faxed the notice and warrant for tonight’s Special Town Meeting.
7:25 PM: Library Trustees address the Board regarding their concerns for space library space allotment at the Village School. Plans to date and articles in the newspaper seem to have reduced the sq. ft. from what the current library has.
MK thanks the Trustees (Nancy Kearns, June Biggs and Jennifer Summers) for writing a letter of concern to the Board and for attending tonight’s meeting. MK informs the Trustees that no final plans for any space at Village School have yet been defined. Schematically, space has been defined for Town Offices, a Senior Center and the Library. However, the Town is ways away from construction documents and is still meeting with the Town’s architect EDM. MK notes that the Senior Center Steering Committee has met and defined space at the Village School but nothing has been set in stone.
Nancy Kearns is concerned that the Library should be next in priorities after Town Offices and the Senior Center, third. A library serves the needs of the entire Town. Nancy wants to establish the Library’s position in the design process. A library planning grant may be available from the State in 5 years. The Trustees recently met with someone from the State Library Commission and toured the Village School and discussed planning and construction grants.
MK states that the design process will be methodical. He wants to get it right the first time.
June Biggs says that the discussed 990 sq. ft. of space is insufficient for the Library.
MK wants to keep the process moving. He doesn’t like the idea of using two town halls.
Jennifer Summers states that the Trustees have made it clear that they want to be in the Village School. It makes sense to have all Town facilities in one location.
MK says that the Board will work in concert with EDM and the Trustees. MK asks if 1,200 sq. ft. would be an acceptable starting point for the Library. Trustees agree.
Nancy Kearns states that the Trustees have already held discussions with EDM and would like to be included in future discussions. MK agrees.
Nancy Kearns says that the end result will be a nicely coordinated multi-function facility.
MK states that the design process from here on will be Town Offices and Library driven with the Senior Center to follow. Previous design steps had been Senior Center driven.
ED agrees that the order of priority for Village School should be: 1) Town Offices, 2) Library and 3) Senior Center.
Regarding the old town hall, Jennifer Summers and MK agree that they have to be convinced that the Town can afford both it and the Village School. CW understands the financial concerns of keeping both buildings but remains attached to the old town hall.
Trustees thank the Board for their time.
7:55 PM: Other Items:
MK suggests that joint interviews be set up as soon as possible with the 2 full-time police officer candidates. AA will coordinate with Chief and candidates for next week.
8:00 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_____________________ ____________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
October 3, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW) & Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant Mark Webber (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
Board reviews and approves a driveway permit for Hirsch, 8 Austerlitz Road.
7:00 PM: Dominick Luchi and his attorney Mike Ostrosky appear before the Board to seek the Board’s sign-off on a building permit for 89 West Center Road and to discuss Mr. Luchi’s displeasure with the building permitting and inspection process in general.
After a review, the Board signs off on the permit for 89 West Center Road.
Mr. Luchi criticizes the building permit application process as being too difficult and time consuming.
MK points out that a new permit and process has been instituted to speed up the process and to make the application uniform with other towns. We are in a learning process now but the Board is committed to making the process better. A revised application packet is given to Mr. Luchi.
A copy of an incomplete Certificate of Occupancy for one of Mr. Luchi’s new house projects is given to him. Mr. Luchi says that he will take care of the C of O and get a copy to the homeowner.
Other Items: Board asks EDM Architects to attend their 10-17 meeting to discuss next steps in the Town Offices at Village School conversion project.
MK is anxious to keep the conversion project moving forward.
MK asks if a status report has been given on the Old Town Hall Study group. AA responds that no recent updates have been given and Joel Hotchkiss will be contacted.
MK wants to start the FY ’07 budget process sometime in November. Board will review the process and timeline in the next few weeks.
CW states that the American Legion will be allowed meeting space in the Village School. It will not be designated space but there will be plenty of available space to gather. Also, the Highway Dept. has cleaned, painted and secured a room in the Village School basement for the American Legion armory. The Legion’s current home on Gt. Barrington Rd. is being put up for sale.
7:55 PM: MK makes a motion to go into executive session for the purpose of collective bargaining discussions and to return to open session upon completion. CW seconds the motion. Voice vote taken: ED, aye; CW, aye; MK, aye.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
8:05 PM: Board returns to open session.
Following a discussion, the Board instructs AA to contact the Chief of Police and ask the Chief to provide an update to the Board on the hiring of a full-time police officer and asks the Chief to provide the Board with a monthly staffing schedule prior to the start of each month.
Following a discussion, MK moves to approve a letter of engagement with Thomas Scanlon Assoc. to perform the Town’s annual audit for the next 3 years. Both CW and MK have been satisfied with Scanlon’s past work for the Town. MK asks that a clause be added to the agreement insisting that audit reports be completed during by January 1 following the close of the fiscal year.
The Water and Sewer Commission will meet on 10-5-05 at 7:00 PM. Topics of discussion will include rate adjustments, sewer expansion and plant operations.
There will be no meeting next week (Columbus Day).
BOS reviews and approves a response to a recent FinCom MEMO re: FY 2004 audit exit conference.
AA and MK will meet with Tom Webb of Berkshire Housing to discuss the Senior Center grant on 10-7 at 9:00 AM.
Board schedules a public hearing for 10-17-05 at 6:30 PM for the purpose of hearing and acting upon an application to transfer the Williams River Country Store beer and wine retail license to L.A.H., LLC.
8:30 PM: There being no further business before the Board, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_____________________ _______________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
September 26, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; Village School
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Michael Kirchner (MK) unable to attend. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
BOS approves previous meeting minutes.
BOS approves weekly warrants.
Board discusses setting a date for a Special Town Meeting for the purpose of seeking additional funds to enable the purchase of a new model year Highway Dept. truck. CW explains that bids were opened for the truck two weeks ago and the bids were approximately $9,500 higher than the Annual Town Meeting appropriation of $30,000. CW sought a recommendation from the Finance Committee on how to make up the shortfall. The FinCom recommendation was to call a Special Town Meeting and to appropriate from certified free cash. AA notes that free cash wouldn’t likely be certified for at least a month or more from now. There are only a handful of communities that have their free cash certified this early in the fiscal year. CW expresses an urgency in ordering the truck. If he has to wait until free cash is certified, not only will the bids be voided but a truck wouldn’t arrive until sometime in the spring. CW needs the truck for this season’s snow removal.
Michael Skorput suggests that the article seek authorization for the Treasurer to borrow the Highway truck shortfall. CW says the Board will consider the suggestion.
Town Clerk Tina Skorput Cooper asks whether time will be given to see if there might be any other articles to add to the warrant. AA notes that the warrant would have to signed and posted no later than 10-3-05 and that the warrant could be held open until the Friday before (9-30-05). CW asks Tina to spread the word and to get back to the Board during the week if she was aware of anyone seeking to place an article on the warrant. Tina
agrees.
7:05 PM: ED calls a Public Hearing to order by reading the Pubic Notice as it appeared in the Berkshire Eagle. The purpose of the hearing is to hear and discuss the Conservation Commission’s draft Scenic Mountain Act language and mapping.
ConsCom member Steve Mack (SM) conducts the presentation. Steve presents and discusses the map and language associated with local adoption of the Act. The critical elevation is 1,300’. All areas above that elevation are subject to the Act. Additionally, several areas of Town – described as foothills to these peaks – would be subject to this act if the subject area exceeds a 15% slope.
In response to a question, SM states that the Act is regulatory not advisory. There is an appeal provision to the Act.
Bill Kie (BK) states that the map should be more clearly defined. Once approved, it would be set in stone. Several areas within the shaded slope areas do not exceed 15%. SM notes that the first 300’ in from roadways would be exempt from the Act. SM adds that it would be very difficult to draw a map of the Town showing only the specific areas exceeding a 15% slope.
BK states that the application could get very expensive. Landowners would have to hire an engineer to get a building permit. BK adds that, although the Act is good intentioned, the Act will hurt local landowners. It could inhibit their land rights.
SM states that the ConsCom has held 8 public forums to discuss the Act and all have been very lightly attended. CW states that tonight’s hearing will not be the last hosted by the Selectmen. He suggests that mailings go to all landowners who may be affected by the Act prior to the next hearing.
An audience member states that the Act’s language could be confusing. It appears that all foothills are subject to regulations. Perhaps an overlay map could be produced showing only the 15% slope areas.
Sheila Thunfors states that, with a few exceptions, all land not shown as shaded on the map is already subject to the Wetlands Act. Adoption of this Act would, effectively, give the ConsCom regulatory authority over almost all privately owned land in the Town. Sheila states that the current membership of the ConsCom is reasonable and thoughtful, but what might happen if the membership changes? ConsCom are all volunteers. Will they be able to handle all of the work that the Act will require? Can it be fairly implemented?
Michael Skorput states that once property rights are taken, they are gone forever. He agrees with Sheila Thunfors that an obstructionist ConsCom could make life very difficult for a landowner.
BK states that if this map and language was presented to a Town Meeting, it would be widely defeated. When last year’s Town Meeting voted to enable the ConsCom to draw up an Act, no one knew that most of the Town would be affected. The ConsCom would have tremendous power over the rights of landowners. Voters had no idea about a 15% slope overlay in addition to an elevation restriction.
It is noted that no additional town meetings are required for adoption of the Act. The Selectmen are the adopting authority. The Board could approve or deny the Act language tonight or hold as many additional public hearings on the subject as they felt necessary. Town meeting was the enabling authority allowing the ConsCom to draw up the Act. The Selectmen must approve the Act before it is forwarded to the State Dept. on Conservation and Recreation for final approval.
CW asks what the feedback had been at the ConsCom hearings on the Act. SM answers, positive – but lightly attended.
Mr. Fadding notes that clearing even ¼ acre of woods for farmland would fall under the Act. Pastureland is just as scenic as woods.
Sheila Thunfors asks where on a subject property is the 15% slope line drawn. SM answers that only disturbed areas are subject to the Act. He notes that timber harvesting – with an approved timber plan – is not subject to the Act.
ED suggests that tonight’s hearing be continued to a future date. In the meantime, Act language highlights, and a map should be prepared and sent to effected landowners. The Assessors would have to assist in providing a mailing list.
ED asks why there is a need to add another layer to the building approval process. Landowners will now have to hire an engineer to get a simple building permit.
8:20 PM: CW makes a motion to continue the hearing to a future date. ED seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
8:25 PM: Bill Kie appears at the Board’s request to discuss his Class II used car auto license and his licensed premises. The Board received a formal complaint about vehicles being parked and displayed for sale on the lot at the corner of Rte. 102 and State Line Road.
BK states that the only vehicle for sale on the corner lot is a boat sitting on a currently registered trailer. All the other vehicles are being temporarily stored and will be removed in the next 15 days. BK states that the vehicles were just purchased at auction and he didn’t have space on his licensed premises to store them.
BK states that a single complaint shouldn’t have prompted the Board to call him in to a meeting. CW responds that if someone takes the time to attend a Board meeting and state a concern, then it is the Board’s responsibility to respond. ED adds that she has received a few informal complaints about vehicles being parked on the corner lot.
The Board and BK agree that the currently licensed lot for used car sales is 10 West Center Road. The corner lot is # 4 West Center Road and is not licensed for sales.
CW asks BK if all vehicles on the corner lot will be moved in 15 days. BK says yes.
Other Items:
The Board decides to set the date for a Special Town Meeting for October 17, 2005 to seek $9,000 - $10,000 from available funds to enable the immediate purchase of the Highway Dept. truck.
Richard Klein states that he would like to be nominated for lifetime membership in the Berkshire County Selectmen’s Association. As he understands, nine years of service plus a nomination and a fee are required. Board instructs AA to research the requirements.
Board approves a request from Downtown Merchants Assoc. to fund this year’s listing in the Berkshire Visitor’s Guide for $340 from the Selectmen’s Expenses line item.
AA informs the Board that a $4,000 check arrived from Charter for equipment purchases for local access TV.
Board decides to wait until a full Board is present to discuss the pending letter of engagement for auditing services.
A site visit will be held at Village School on 9-27 at 1:00 PM. Attending the meeting will be EDM Architects, State Building Inspector Gordon Bailey, Town Building Officials and other Town Officials. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss State building and handicap codes and requirements in order to avoid surprises or mistakes in the planning and construction process.
PJ Ryan has taken out a liquor license transfer application for the Williams River Country Store.
Board reviews a memo from the FinCom resulting from their recent session with the Town’s auditing firm. The Board agrees with several of the memo’s recommendations and will issue a reply prior to the FinCom’s next meeting.
9:50 PM: CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. ED seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
____________________________ _____________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
September 19, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; West Stockbridge Village School
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Michael Kirchner (MK) unable to attend. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Board signs a letter requesting that William Kie attend next week’s meeting to discuss his Class II Auto license.
Board reviews a letter from the Elizabeth Freeman Center requesting use of the Village School for Supervised Parental Visitation on a weekly basis. Board decides to deny the request. Although they would like to help out, the building is not yet ready to accept outside groups. Board expressed concerns about safety and convenience during ongoing renovations.
Board discusses plans for re-doing sidewalks in a portion of the downtown. CW notes that he is in the engineer selection process. Chapter 90 Highway funds will pay for the engineering. It is hoped that construction can take place next week.
CW has no recent news to report on the State’s schedule for the reconstruction of the Shaker Mill Bridge.
7:00 PM: Chief Cooper that the Department work schedule was the same for September as it was for August. CW responds that whether it has changed or not, the Board still needs to see a copy of the next month’s staffing schedule before the start of that month.
Chief notes that Officer Ben Towne is not going to work out. Recently hired for an early morning patrol shift to show a presence during early morning school bus routes, Officer Towne showed up for 2 days of work and hasn’t been seen since.
In order to fill that gap, Chief Cooper has been in contact with retired Lee Police Officer John Farina who is interested in filling some shifts. He is radar certified and would be experienced for the early morning traffic control shift. He would be available at this point for 3 days per week. Chief notes that none of the other recent Department appointees are radar certified.
CW requests that the 6:30-8:30 shift be staffed Monday-Friday. It’s up to the Chief to fill out his work schedule.
Chief states that a full-time Academy trained officer from Lee will be coming in shortly for an interview for the full-time posted position. In response to a question from CW, the Chief states that the full-time position has been posted internally and that only 1 officer is interested – Rosario Messina. Rosario could be hired with a waiver stipulation to finish the full-time Academy training within a prescribed period. Once the Chief speaks with the new full time candidate, he will bring his recommendations to the Board.
CW asks how many hours per week are police officers scheduled in Town. Chief responds, 72 hours. CW notes that Town Meeting appropriated funds to the Police Salary account equal to 104 – 110 hours of staffing per week and that what the Townspeople are expected to see. CW notes that there seems to be a lack of police presence in Town and it seems that speeding laws are being ignored; people know that they can speed through West Stockbridge without getting caught.
Board agrees to formally appoint Robert Perin as a part-time Special Police Officer.
ED expresses her concern about safety for children – especially during the early morning bus hours.
Chief promises that he will have someone on board for the early AM shift by this week and will report back to the Board by their next meeting. He may have to shuffle his staff around.
Chief reports that the speed trailer has been moved to State Line Rd. near the Race residence.
Regarding rate of pay for a full-time officer, CW tells the Chief it us up to him as the head of the department to negotiate salaries – as long as the total stays within his appropriation. CW notes that he and the Board are not looking to micromanage the Police Dept. However, the filling out of the Department staff has been going on for several months and that there is very little sign of progress. The Board will do all it can to facilitate but isn’t looking to run the Department. CW notes that the Board is obligated to give the Town the staffing that they have asked for.
CW would like to see the October Department staffing plan before the beginning of October. Board thanks the Chief for attending the meeting.
8:00 PM: Other Items:
WWTP Operator Mike Buffoni will present the Sewer and Water Commissioners with the Shantz sewer expansion plan at their next meeting.
The next County Selectmen’s Dinner will be at the Egremont Country Club on October 20.
A Sewer and Water Commissioners meeting has been posted for Sept. 29 at 7:00 at the Village School.
The Board discusses options on securing more funding to purchase the 2006 Highway Dept. truck. CW notes that he will attend tomorrow evening’s FinCom meeting to seek their input. A Special Town Meeting will likely have to be called.
AA notes that representatives from the State Library Commissioner were at the Village School to discuss the State Library grant for construction with the Library Commissioners. This is the same group approached by the AA 2 years ago to discuss possible construction grant funding. The Commissioners did not pursue that contact but seem to be interested now. Commissioner Nancy Kearns will provide a review of their meeting to the Board.
Board discusses a formal request from resident Dick Moffatt to use the new Don Johnson Antique Museum for an old car gathering during the 2nd week of October. Board thinks it would be a great idea. Notice should go to Chief Cooper to be on the lookout for slow moving autos around Town.
8:42 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_____________________________ ______________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton
Board of Selectmen Meeting
September 12, 2005
Meeting Minutes
6:30 PM: Open Meeting; Village School, State Line Rd.
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Michael Kirchner absent and recovering comfortably from knee surgery. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approve previous meeting and executive session minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
Board signs building permit for Sue Brennan.
7:00 PM: Bid openings for one-ton Highway Dept. truck and snow removal package. ED asks that bids be closed. CW seconds the motion. Vote, 2-0 in favor.
Bid results are as follows:
Item Bidder Amount
|
2006, 1-ton cab & chassis |
Marchese Ford |
$19,525 + trade of existing 1-ton |
Item Bidder Amount
|
Snow removal package |
Howard-Fairfield |
$20,739 |
|
Snow removal package |
Tenco-New England |
$20,242 |
ED makes a motion to take bids under advisement and to close the bid opening. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor. CW notes 5 bid packages were sent to both dealers and snow removal package providers and is disappointed that the bidder response wasn’t better. CW notes that the combined bid of truck and snow package exceeds the appropriation made at the Annual Town Meeting of $30,000. CW suggests that the FinCom be approached for their advice. FinCom member Bob Salerno, in attendance, agrees.
7:15 PM: Greg Winters from Tom Scanlon Associates, CPA presents his findings for the Town’s FY 2004 audit. Mr. Winters reviews the financial reports and points out the reporting requirement differences from year’s past, including the newly instituted GASB requirements which are reflected in the audit.
Present for the exit conference are: Town Treasurer Bruce Turner, Town Accountant Maryellen Brown, Town Collector Eunice Panzeri and FinCom Member Bob Salerno.
Mr. Winters reports that the Town is in very healthy fiscal condition. The Town’s reserves, debt ratio and other financial indicators exceed those of comparable communities. The Town has made steady improvements in many financial areas in recent years. Of particular note is the outstanding collection rate of Tax Collector Eunice Panzeri. She has a 97% collection rate. Mr. Winters notes that it is common to see towns with 15%-20% in back taxes outstanding.
FinCom member Bob Salerno asks several questions about the financial statements which are addressed by Mr. Winters.
Mr. Winters points out the distinction between fixed assets and inventory schedules. Individual lists are required under GASB. The Town has adopted a $5,000 value threshold for inventory items. Each Town Department must now provide a list of equipment and items in their possession that exceeds $5,000 in value.
After answering all questions on the financial reports, Mr. Winters discusses the Management Report. Four items from prior years’ reports have been properly addressed and remedied (Financial Reporting Model, Water Capital Deficit, Cash Management, and Fixed Assets).
Un-remedied items from prior years are: 1) Sewer and Water Receivables. Mr. Winters explains that a reporting step in the process is missing and how to rectify it. Town Accountant Maryellen Brown asks if it would be alright to make the corrections beginning in FY ’07. 2) Infrastructure Assets. Although this item is required under GASB until 2008, it is recommended that the Town begin the process now.
New items appearing are: 1) Handling of Firearm Permits. It is recommended that a revolving fund be established at the next Town Meeting to correct this item in order to improve the accounting of fees and processing costs. 2) Timely Submission of Receipts to the Treasurer. It is noted that the Town Clerk turned in receipts in FY ’04 for money received in FY ’02 and ’03. It is suggested that the Treasurer draft a MEMO to go to all those who receive and process fees to turn them over on a monthly basis.
Mr. Winters is asked if he would be available to come back to give the same presentation to the Finance Committee during one of their scheduled monthly meetings. Bob Salerno notes that the FinCom meets next Tuesday. Mr. Winters gladly agrees and will confirm his availability tomorrow.
Mr. Winters notes that his firm’s current 3-year engagement agreement with the Town expires as of the 2004 audit. He leaves a new 3-year engagement letter with the Selectmen for their consideration. CW notes that he has been pleased with Scanlon’s work in the past. Bob Salerno asks who executes the engagement letter. As with all contracts, the Selectmen are the approving authority. The Board thanks Mr. Winters for his presentation.
9:00 PM: Other Items:
ED asks whether the newly hired early morning Police Officer has been working – he was only seen a few times. ED asks that Chief Cooper attend next week’s Board meeting to give an update on Department activities, including: hiring of full-time officer; putting out the speed trailer; and early morning staffing for school bus stops.
Board approves a sign permit for Stone House Realty.
In response to a resident’s concern raised at a previous meeting, the Board discusses the licensed premises of Bill Kie’s Class II auto license. The question is whether he is allowed to display vehicles at the corner of State Line Rd. and West Center Rd. AA will check the Assessor’s records against his license and report back to the Board.
The ABCC has approved the alcoholic beverage license transfer at the Card Lake Inn.
A reminder is given of the 9/26/05 Public Hearing hosted by the Selectmen to discuss the Scenic Mt. Act.
AA reports that a second payment has been received from Charter Communications for $9,100. The total to date for co-location revenue sharing is $18,200 in FY ’06.
9:30 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0.
Minutes approved by:
________________________ _________________________ Date: _________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
August 29, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Michael Kirchner (MK). Curt Wilton (CW) away on vacation. Also present: Administrative Assistant Mark Webber (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
No permits before the Board.
7:00 PM: ED opens a utility pole hearing per request from Verizon to locate 3 utility poles on East Alford Road. Verizon representative Tom Bissette presents map and location of proposed poles. Hearing notice was mailed to abutters. No public present. MK makes a motion to approve the petition to located utility poles. ED seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Other Items: Resident Pam Race expresses her concerns with early morning speeding truck traffic in the State Line neighborhood of Rte. 102. ED informs Pam that a Special Police Officer was appointed last week whom the Chief of Police has scheduled to work an early morning shift for the purpose of monitoring traffic during school bus pick up times. Pam’s concerns will be passed along to the Chief.
Pam also request that MassHighway put up a directional sign or signs at strategic locations along Rte. 102. Several people stop and turn around in her driveway asking directions to Rte. 90 West. There are no signs between the downtown and the state line. MK recommends that the Board contact MassHighway with a request for one or more directional signs. ED agrees.
Per the Chief of Police Karl Cooper’s recommendation, the Board appoints Ben Towne as Special Police Officer effective upon swearing in and through June 30, 2006.
ED suggests that a good location for the Speed Trailer would be in the area of State Line to address Pam Race’s concerns.
Based upon the recommendation of the Highway Superintendent, MK makes a motion to award last week’s West Center Road/Maple View Dr. bid opening as follows: bituminous paving to LB Corporation and full-depth reclamation to All States Asphalt. ED seconds the motion. It is noted that Garrity and All States both submitted the same low bid for full depth reclamation but the Highway Supt. recommended going with All States because of past favorable contract experiences with All States. Vote taken, 2-0. Award letters will be sent to the low bidders and bid results to all bidders.
ED expresses concern about Village School bathrooms being cleaned. Also, the refrigerator door in the kitchen was left open and running. ED suggests that the new Highway Dept. employee be assigned a schedule to clean and check Town facilities on a regular basis.
MK reports that last Tuesday’s Senior Center Steering Committee meeting went very well and that the group has decided to design space and proceed with planning to utilize existing and available classroom space in Village School. MK notes that the group willingly accepted the idea of locating in Village School classrooms and that a major hurdle has been passed. The Committee will meet again in a few weeks. MK notes that although space is now designated, senior center construction is dependent upon State grant approval.
Board reviews a note from EDM Engineers re: Village School conversion. EDM recommends scheduling a joint meeting with EDM, Gordon Bailey (State Building Inspector) and the Selectmen to view the building, discuss future plans and to understand building code and Handicap requirements. MK agrees that a meeting would be a great idea and that future planning will be made easier by the allocation of space to a Senior Center. Efforts can now be planned comprehensively. AA to call and arrange a meeting ASAP.
AA forwards a verbal request from Elizabeth Freeman Center to use Village School space for supervised parental visitation sessions. MK suggests that the Board wait until a formal/specific request arrives but he expresses concerns about hosting outside groups if construction/renovation is going on in the school. ED agrees.
Board sets Sept. 26, 2005 as the public hearing date to hear and act on the draft Scenic Mountain Act as provided by the ConsCom. A positive vote from the Board of Selectmen on the map and language is required before the Act is sent on to the State for final approval. The ConsCom is holding two of their own Public Hearings.
7:15 PM: ED makes a motion to go into executive session for the purpose of discussing strategy with respect to collective bargaining and to return to open session upon its conclusion. MK seconds the motion. Roll call vote taken: ED, aye; MK, aye.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
7:35 PM: Open meeting session continues.
Board accepts an application for employment with the W.S. Police Dept. from Robert Perrin. Application is passed along to the Chief.
Resident David Karls, 53 West Center Road asks the Board about used vehicles – large trucks and a boat – being displayed for sale at the corner of Rte. 102 and West Center Road. He notes that the area has expanded from 1 or 2 vehicles to several now.
MK notes that Billy Kie has both Class II and Class III auto licenses but that the Board will review his license to check on any restrictions for numbers or display of vehicles and report back to Mr. Karls and take any action, if warranted.
7:45 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes approves by:
_________________________ __________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Michael Kirchner
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
August 22, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant Mark Webber (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
MK asks under which Town’s payroll are outside police details charged under. For instance, if a Lanesboro policeman is doing an outside detail in W. Stockbridge which town is his payroll run through? It is preferable to have detail officer payrolls run through the officer’s town of employment. AA to check with Town Accountant.
7:00 PM: Ogden Gigli asks the Board if they are in favor of audio recording of regular Selectmen’s Meeting minutes. Mr. Gigli suggests that recording would provide a back-up to written minutes and could be referred to for recall and accuracy. CW makes a motion to audio record future meetings. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Other Items: Town Clerk provides a list of Town Officers not yet sworn in by her office. The list is quite long and includes Police Dept. appointees. MK asks AA to remind the Chief of Police to inform his appointee to get sworn in.
Pending confirmation from T. Scanlon Assoc., the FY 2004 audit exit conference will be held on 9/12/05 at 7:00 PM at the Selectmen’s Meeting Room, Village School. AA informs Board that DOR Local Services Representative Jim Podolak will not be attending. DOR has cut back on allowing evening meetings for its agents. Furthermore, Mr. Podolak noted that he saw nothing of concern in the audit report and related FY ’04 financial information.
7:30 PM: Bid opening for paving and full depth reclamation project on West Center Road and Maple View Dr. ED makes a motion to close the bids. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor. AA reads the legal notice as it appeared in the Berkshire Eagle.
ED opens and reads aloud the bids; first for the paving portion, then the full-depth reclamation portion. [See attached bid results].
Two bidders (All States and Garrity) bid the exact same amount ($1.89/sq. yd.) for full depth reclamation. CW asks how to choose in the event of a tie. MK offers that the Board, as stated in the legal notice, has the authority to reject any and all bids in the best interest of the Town. It would also be reasonable for the Highway Supt. to consider past contractor performance when making his final recommendation to the Board.
ED makes a motion to take all bids under advisement and await the recommendation of the Highway Supt. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Other Items: MK announces that the Senior Center Steering Committee will be meeting on 8/23/05 at the Village School. MK states that the first step in determining how to proceed is to establish an accurate count of the number of seniors who would be served. He notes that other needs hinge on where a center would be located. Planning for a library and the remainder of Town offices would be impacted. MK wants to get the planning right the first time. MK is anxious to move forward but public construction projects do not happen quickly.
ED states that she would be more inclined to house a senior center in the Village School than to build a new space or renovate other potentially available space.
Board reviews letter from Larry Vaber voicing his concern about the possible pending sale of the Grange to an abutter. Larry would like to have the building go to the Town for future needs. He acknowledges that the building is in disrepair. MK is sympathetic to Mr. Vaber’s concerns but the Town cannot take a position in what appears to be a private sale between two willing parties.
Board reviews a letter received from resident Sherri Johnson regarding an incident of alleged unprofessional treatment she received from a West Stockbridge police officer working a traffic detail on Rte. 102 near State Line. MK acknowledges receipt of the letter and notes that it is a matter for the Chief of Police to address. MK requests that the Chief forward copies of all training certificates and records of W.S. police officers to the Board of Selectmen for their records; or make the records available to the Board for viewing.
Anita Benk of E. Alford Rd. has asked for more NO PARKING signs in the area of the Astore Quarry. She said that use of the quarry seems to be up this summer. CW notes that there are more than enough NO PARKING signs throughout the area. Enforcement is the key; not adding more signs.
Board signs a driveway permit for Chris O’Connor; Swamp Road.
Board sets a utility pole hearing for Verizon for 8-29-05 at 7:00 PM for three poles on E. Alford Rd.
Board reviews a MEMO from the Town’s Health Inspector regarding grease traps for commercial businesses on the Town’s sewer system. He notes that he has inspected all of the establishments and they all have grease traps. However, he notes that maintenance of the traps is the responsibility of the owner and needs to be done on a regular basis.
Board reviews draft Scenic Mt. Act as presented by the ConsCom. Two public hearings will be held by the ConsCom to review the draft. Meetings are August 31 and Sept. 3rd.
AA informs the Board that no special provisions were addressed in the current solid waste contract for scrap metals removed from the Transfer Station. The current contract with ECO Waste runs out in June 2006. A formal RFP process will take place and scrap metals can be addressed in the new contract.
8:35 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_______________________ ________________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: _______
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
August 15, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED); Curt Wilton (CW) and: Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs warrants.
6:50 PM: Dominick Luchi addresses the Board re: two certificates of occupancy that he has outstanding and in need of signatures. Mr. Luchi expresses his anger about getting the runaround from Town officials as far as obtaining sign-offs. The Board reviews the two C.O.’s that Mr. Luchi has with him. One seems to be in order and requires only one more signature. AA to facilitate per BOS suggestion. The second C of O needs approval from the Planning Board regarding that Board’s Special Conditions attached to the building permit for the driveway. CW explains that he will sign off as the Highway Supt. once the Planning Bd. instructs him that it is all right to do so. CW explains to Mr. Luchi that once the Highway Supt. signs-off on a driveway plan, its location cannot change without getting a new approval.
7:00 PM: Marge Powell discusses items for the upcoming Zucchini Festival. She’s checking on a P.A. system set up, rubbish pick-up, EMT availability, public bathroom cleaning and parking issues. CW states that AA will take care of the P.A. and that CW has made arrangements for the other items.
7:10 PM: Tim Eagles, of EDM Engineers, addresses the Board and those in attendance (Library Commissioners Nancy Kearns and June Biggs and Friends of Library members Jill Pixley and Kathy Davis). MK and AA give a review of events to date and informs Mr. Eagles that the Board is interested in constructing a model office in one of the classrooms as designed by Bob Powell. From the feedback taken from that model, EDM could design the rest of the Town offices. The Town is looking to EDM to ensure that: space is properly designed; utilities are optimized and correctly laid out; Chapter 30B is adhered to and; State Building Codes are followed.
Mr. Eagles explains that his firm’s previous design for Town offices and Library approached $1M in construction costs because of the relative high cost of meeting building and H.C. code compliance when converting from existing conditions. Code compliance has a high fixed cost no matter how extensive the renovations are. AA will forward past correspondences between the Town and State Building Inspector’s office to EDM. Phasing of the construction is ruled out because of Procurement Law (30B) compliance.
Library Commissioner June Biggs notes that the proposed new layout reduces the Village School library space by more than one-third from the original EDM design. MK explains that we are essentially starting over again with EDM and no designs to date are cast in stone. All space is negotiable. Commissioner Nancy Kearns states that the Town will have to spend some money if it expects to have a Library that it can be proud of.
Bob Powell and Mr. Eagles review Mr. Powell’s work to date and conduct a brief site visit. It is decided that EDM will be contacted once the model office is constructed to design the remainder of the Town office space. The Board thanks those in attendance for participating in tonight’s discussion.
8:05 PM: Board reviews two bills for submittal from Cemetery Commissioners Stuart Kuller for payment for cemetery mowing. The Town Accountant has kicked back one of the requests because it was out of synch with fiscal years. The other bill for mowing is fine and will be forwarded for processing. Following a discussion, the Board concurs that there are two methods available per MGL to pay the previous fiscal year mowing bill: 1) request a Special Town Meeting and place an article on the warrant requesting payment out of an available fund; this vote would require nine-tenths approval or; 2) pay the bill out of Cemetery Perpetual Care earned interest funds. Board instructs AA to inform Commission Chair Stuart Kuller of same.
Other Items: AA is taking 2 vacation days (8/24 & 8/26) to deliver first born to college.
MK makes a motion to appoint two Special Police officers: Timothy Hassett and Paul Petrescu. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
CW requests a staffing plan – either monthly or weekly – from the Chief of Police. The Board should know who is on duty on what shifts and on what dates. CW would like to see the August and September schedules as soon as possible. Staffing schedules should be made available to the Board at the beginning of each month. Included in the plan should be all on-call scheduling for the Chief and Officers.
MK suggests that the Board and the Chief strongly consider hiring a part-time Academy qualified Police Officer as a full-time officer – with a full-time Academy waiver. This person would then work as a full-time officer until the next full-time Academy session opens up. MK notes that the position of full-time Officer in the Town has been vacant for 6 years and the Town will have to choose a candidate and send him to the Academy. The full-time position should be posted by the Chief to let current Officers apply. MK makes a motion to hire a part-time Officer as a full-time Officer under a 1-yr waiver. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor. AA to inform the Chief.
AA notes that even though we are less than two months into the new fiscal year that the Town Counsel appropriation will not be enough to last the year. There has been a marked increase for requests for opinions from various Town Boards – largely due to building activity in Town. MK suggests that an article requesting additional funds for legal expenses be put on the warrant for the next Special Town Meeting (no meeting scheduled as of now).
8:45 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. ED seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ _______________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: __________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
August 1, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW), Michael Kirchner (MK). Administrative Assistant (AA) on vacation. No press present.
Board signs previous meeting minutes.
Board signs warrants.
Other Items: Ron Race announces a NIMS training meeting to be held at Village School on August 21, 2005.
Board discusses the BHRSD new schools dedication to be held on 8-6 at 10:00 AM.
Request to remove a pair of sneakers from the phone wires near the Shaker Mill Bridge.
Request for the Town to mow the lawn area around the cannon.
Board appoints the following to the Cable TV Advisory Committee; effective through 6-30-06: William Davis; Ogden Gigli; Mati Kiin; Carol Kuller; David Zick. A discussion follows regarding money owed to the Town for technical equipment for local access channel. Suggestions are made to take down the Charter tower and put up the Town’s own tower; switch to Time Warner Cable and get rid of Charter; record Selectmen’s meetings.
Board of Assessor’s Chair Irene Skorput recommends appointing Jennifer Wilton to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of John Astore. Selectman Curt Wilton removes himself from the discussion and any subsequent action. Following a discussion, ED makes a motion to appoint Jennifer Wilton. Irene Skorput seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor; Curt Wilton does not participate in the vote.
Joan Rehm asks that Don McClellan be appointed to the Senior Center Steering Committee. Board agrees. The Committee’s first meeting will be next Tuesday (8/9/05) at 7:00 PM.
Fire Chief Peter Skorput asks the Board to review and sign a Mutual Aid agreement.
Discussion takes place about Zucchini Festival fireworks. ED has received complaints about last year’s fireworks: 2 complaints from Lenox Rd. residents about rattling windows and another from Spencer Road about falling debris. Fire Chief will review before this year’s permit is issued.
Tree Warden Bill Kie discusses responsibility for care and removal of Town trees. Mr. Kie refers to a publication on the powers, duties and responsibilities of elected Tree Wardens. Mr. Kie requests written permission from the Cemetery Commissioners to take care of trees on Town Cemetery property. No decisions are made.
CW announces that a new Highway Dept. employee Jamie Boyer started work today.
Request to clean the Public Restrooms several times during the day for the Zucchini Festival.
CW discusses Chapter 90 Highway Funds paving project for West Center Road and Maple View Drive.
Mr. Kie suggests that a small office be set aside for the Tree Warden when the Town moves into the Village School.
8:30 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_______________________ _______________________ ________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
July 25, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Michael Kirchner (MK) away on vacation. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and signs weekly warrants.
Board discusses a complaint received of illegally parked cars along E. Alford Rd. Board will pass along to Chief of Police.
CW discusses a site visit that he and the AA took last week to the Berz residence, West Center Rd. At the Berz’s request, they viewed apparent erosion being caused by run off from the upland abutting property. AA will contact ConsCom to ask if they have any jurisdiction in this situation.
7:30 PM: ED opens the Public Hearing to act on an application for a liquor license transfer from EDLI, Inc. a.k.a. Card Lake Inn, to Elm Inn, LLC. ED reads the public notice as it appeared in the Berkshire Eagle (7/9/05).
Representing the applicants are: Mary and Bob Feuer and Ellen and Michael Greer.
The applicants and the Board discuss hours of operation, bartender training, and entertainment special permits.
No one from the public is present.
ED makes a motion to approve the application and close the Public Hearing. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor. Application will be forwarded to the ABCC for their action.
Other Items: Board signs letters to be sent certified mail to Charter Communications informing Charter that they are in default on both their lease and license agreements signed in May 2004. No co-location payments for cellular communication antennas located on the Charter tower. The letters were drafted by Town Counsel and give Charter 30 days to comply.
3 nominees have responded and agreed to serve on the Senior Center Steering Committee: Mike Kirchner; Mary Korte and Joan Rehm.
EDM Engineers will attend the 8/8 Board meeting to renew discussion on moving Town offices to the Village School.
Board approves a MEMO to the Tree Warden stating that problem Town trees are the responsibility of the Tree Warden budget and not the Town Department that may have jurisdiction over the property, e.g. Town cemeteries.
Board discusses the issue of new homes being occupied without Certificates of Occupancy. Board instructs AA to contact the Building Inspector and have him provide a list of new building permits matched up to issued Certificates of Occupancy.
8:10 PM: There being no additional business before the Board, CW makes a motion to close the meeting. He needs to attend a Planning Board meeting at the Town Hall. ED seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_________________________ ___________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
July 18, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
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.
6:40 PM: Chief of Police Cooper addresses the Board with an update of Dept. activities. Chief states that speed trailer has been repaired except for one of the hinges. Unit will be operational by this Wednesday. Various locations for setting it up are discussed.
Chief Cooper gives the Board copies of all resumes and applications received to date for the advertised position of full-time police officer. Chief notes that only 1 of the applicants has full-time academy training. The others either have part-time or no academy training. Chief will contact the 1 fully qualified applicant and invite him into an interview within the next 2-3 weeks.
MK notes that the Board only wants to assist the Chief in moving the process along. The full-time officer position has been vacant for too long. MK instructs AA to make copies of the applications for the rest of the Board.
MK tells the Chief that he should feel free to call in other applicants to fill in as part-timers. There seems to still be schedule slots that are going unfilled. MK asks that the Chief provide the Board with a monthly Police Officer’s work schedule in advance – once these open slots are filled. It is also suggested that the Chief hold scheduled office hours at least one day per week. Following a discussion, it is decided that Sunday morning through mid-day would be the best time.
CW tells the Chief that he shouldn’t have to be asked to come in and share information with the Board. “Don’t be a stranger”.
7:00 PM: ED signs-off on a building permit for Bill Casey, West Center Road.
Cory Smith, resident of Mill Pond Trailer Park, addresses the Board with a complaint that he is being treated unfairly by Chief Cooper. Mr. Smith provides a letter to the Board detailing his complaints. Mr. Smith goes on to cite an incident occurring last weekend when the Chief cited Mr. Smith for operating with a suspended license. Mr. Smith claims that he is being harassed and that the Chief goes out of his way to check on him. Mr. Smith wants to be on record with the Board in case he has to address possible future incidents. The Board accepts Mr. Smith’s letter. MK notes that the Board will not interfere with an open police matter and thanks Mr. Smith for his comments.
7:15 PM: Board of Assessor Chair Irene Skorput addresses the Board regarding the vacancy created by the resignation of long time Assessor John Astore. Irene wishes to nominate Jennifer Wilton, Moscow Rd for a joint appointment (with the Selectmen) to fill the vacancy. Town Clerk Tina Skorput Cooper states that Mr. Astore’s letter of resignation must be presented to the Town Clerk; she hasn’t seen such a letter. Irene states that the letter was addressed to the Board of Assessors. The Selectmen will agree to the joint appointment as soon as Mr. Astore’s letter is received by the Town Clerk. A discussion follows on John’s years of service and what should be done to recognize him. It is noted that a special event was held a few years ago when John was given a plaque from the Town. Irene states that the State Board of Local Assessors is putting together some type of event for John and suggested that we wait to see what their plans are first. John would have been 100 at the end of his current term.
7:25 PM: Bob Powell and Tina Skorput Cooper address the Board. Bob discusses a State planning grant that may still be available for mapping town owned open space and trails. The Board of Selectmen chose not to apply for this $2,600 Planning grant several months ago because of the quid pro quo conditions attached to its acceptance. A conservation restriction would have to be placed on the Town-owned land to be studied (Harvey Mt. and Samantha Lane). Although the Board, at the time, did not envision the land ever being anything other than open space recreation land, they weren’t comfortable placing such a restriction on it in exchange for a planning grant. Bob Powell states that to remove such a restriction requires 3 steps: 1) vote of the local Conservation Commission; 2) 2/3 majority vote at a town meeting; and 3) a 2/3 vote of the entire State Legislature. Bob has spoken with a grant program administrator from the State and will furnish additional information at a future meeting. Bob thinks that the grant is still available and has a rolling enrollment period.
Bob asks if there have been any developments on a footpath to give access to Harvey Mt. from West Alford Rd. CW responds that no conditions regarding public access were placed on the Special Permit recently issued for the property between West Alford Rd. and Harvey Mt.
Bob asks if anyone is going to approach the developers of the former Kingsmont property to see if they were still willing to discuss public access. ED states that she will approach Randy Thunfors who is one of the principals in the development. CW notes that a stronger public effort may have influenced the developers to consider public access during the Special Permit process. CW notes that some neighbors of the development came to the first Planning Board hearing and voiced their desire for public access but no one came to any of the subsequent meetings over the following 6 months or more.
Bob Powell mentions that he heard that the Village School tennis courts were being considered as a site for a detached Senior Center. As Chairman of the Parks and Recreation Commission, he would be strongly opposed to such a location. In fact, the most recent Annual Town Meeting appropriated $5,000 for Parks and Recreation Capital projects; one of which was to resurface the tennis courts. MK responds that a new Senior Center Steering Committee was just being formed and that discussion of sites or anything else related to Senior Centers was premature at this time.
Joel Hotchkiss, representing the Town Hall Study Committee, states that he reviewed some of the previous renovation plans for the Town Hall and that the Committee will ask 3 building professionals in to interviews.
Other items:
- Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
- MK discusses plans for the Senior Center Steering Committee. The Board offers 5 names for nomination to the Committee: Michael Kirchner, Joan Rehm, Mary Korte, Irene Norton, and Marge McDermott. Letters will be sent to the nominees inviting them to join the Committee. MK notes that one of the first steps of the Committee should be to identify the active number of the senior population to be served. That number will determine the size of the needed space.
- ED says that she is troubled by the thought of maintaining 3 separate buildings: Village School, Town Hall, and a new senior center.
- Board discusses the next step in putting Town offices in the Village School. The Board discusses completing one classroom conversion, and then follow formal MGL Ch 30B procurement for designer services and construction to complete the project.
- Board reads a letter from Kenneth Werner of Samantha Lane. Mr. Werner asks if the Town would consider selling him the Town land above Samantha Lane. Following a discussion, the Board decides to respond to Mr. Werner and thank him for his inquiry but the Town is not interested in selling the land in question.
- Board reviews Planning Bd. decision on former Kingsmont Camp development.
- Board reviews ZBA decision on a building lot at the corner of Swamp and Cone Hill Rd. which upholds the Highway Supt. ruling on the driveway by-law as it applies to the property.
- ED and CW state that they plan to attend tomorrow night’s FinCom meeting at which end of year line item transfers will be addressed.
- Board receives an invitation to attend the new BHRSD school dedication/opening ceremony on 8-13-05.
- Bob Powell mentions that a large playground structure may be available from the Town of New Marlboro. Board asks Bob to pursue further.
- BOS approves a MEMO to be sent to T. Scanlon Auditors asking that they complete the Town’s FY ’05 audit prior to FY ’07 budget discussions.
- BOS issues a Special Permit to the Williamsville Inn for a wedding party on 8-13-05.
- BOS reviews a note from the Town Clerk regarding a complaint she received about a dangerous sidewalk condition on Center Street. MK and CW will investigate at the site.
- CW discusses a fallen tree at the Albany Road Town Cemetery. The Board decides that problem trees on Town property are the responsibility of the Tree Warden and his appropriation and not the Dept. that has jurisdiction over that property. A MEMO stating the same will be sent to the Tree Warden.
- Board reviews and approves revisions to the Building Permit Application.
- CW states that the new Highway Dept. employee will begin work Aug. 1.
- MK instructs AA to send a note to Chief Cooper thanking him for attending tonight’s meeting.
9:25 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes accepted by:
_____________________ _____________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ______________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
July 11, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
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, with the exception of un-allowed (un-used) vacation pay submitted by Chief Cooper.
7:05 PM: MK leaves the meeting to attend a continuation of a Planning Board Public Hearing to consider a change of use for the Village School. MK will return once the hearing is finished.
7:10 PM: Tom Webb, Berkshire Housing and Development Corporation, addresses the meeting on the DHCD Senior Center grant program. Several members of the COA are present along with other interested public. A sign-in sheet is passed around and a copy will be provided by Berkshire Housing.
Tom discusses his and Berkshire Housing’s role in the grant process and program background. He notes that senior centers have been recently built in the towns of Florida, Savoy and Clarksburg. Florida was a modular built; the others were traditional construction.
Norm Rehm notes that there are 400 W.S. residents over the age of 60.
Tom Webb states that the Clarksburg project cost $438,000 and was 2,400 sq. ft. He adds that project size is driven by population served. He states that if the applied for population were to be 400, then the building size and cost would exceed the grant award limit of $600,000.
Tom says that, typically, modular structures will cost less than stick built and that there may be a savings in architectural/engineering costs. He notes that construction costs are in the $150/Sq. Ft. range for a “plain Jane” project. An additional 15% of construction cost should be figured for design services. Design services must be funded by the applicant upfront.
Mr. Webb renovation vs. new construction costs are pretty similar and clients don’t always get what they expect in renovation projects.
Mr. Webb goes on to say that the RFP for the next funding round hasn’t come out yet but that he has been informed that the application rules will be changed. One of the changes is that new applications must include bid ready architectural plans and specifications which will add considerable to the up-front costs of applying.
CW states that the Town is beginning a new process as far as determining the size, scope, type and location of a senior center. He asks those in attendance what their preference would be: a stand alone building or an addition attached to the Village School. No consensus is given. CW adds that the Village School campus seems a likely location but that there are other possible locations around Town that can be considered.
Mr. Webb states that the State median household income is currently $48,000. Mr. Webb adds that the Town must also consider maintenance and utility costs once a senior center is built. Those costs are the responsibility of the Town. A senior center must stay a single use senior center for 5 years following completion. After that, the building can be shared. Visiting seniors from other communities are always allowed.
Tom states the next steps that should take place: 1) form a steering committee – should be limited to 5 members; 2) decide if you are going to build; 3) what type of structure; 4) identify the users and how many would actively use the building; 5) Tom will check on planning grant availability.
ED asks that the first recommendation from the committee needs to identify the building location.
The Board thanks Mr. Webb and those in the audience for their attendance and participation.
8:00 PM: ED opens the Public Hearing by reading the Public Notice for a Change of Manager petition for the West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club.
The proposed Manager, Roger Abbott addresses the Board. He acknowledges the delays that have taken place in finally coming before the Board. He states that 4 Club bartenders have taken and passed the TIPS course for serving customers. The Clubs Serving Policy and Rules and Regulations are posted on the premises.
Roger notes that there are currently 43 active Club members. The Club is open Tuesday through Sunday from 4:00 PM to last call at 12:30 PM.
ED asks if the W.S. Police have needed to be called to the Club recently for any trouble. Roger answers No and that he stays in contact with Chief Cooper.
ED asks if there is any public comment. Stuart Kuller says that he appreciates the Clubs open and welcoming policy to Town groups.
There being no further public comment and noting no opposition to the application, ED closes the hearing to public comment.
MK makes a motion to approve the Change of Manager application. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor. ED closes the public hearing. Roger provides his phone numbers in case there are any problems with the application paperwork.
8:20 PM: MK asks Joel Hotchkiss for an update on the Town Hall Study Committee activities. Joel states that the process is moving slowing along. The group met yesterday and discussed professional services and who might be called upon to study the building.
Other Items: Board reviews a letter from Rep. Olver seeking a brief description of plans for Village School re-use so that he can add it to possible future funding lobbying.
AA reports to the Board that the Sewer and Water Commissioners met on 7-7-05 and discussed a variety of issues. The Commission is leaning towards obtaining funding to engineer all proposed areas of expansion rather than individual engineering for each of the 4 areas.
Board reviews their thoughts on the resumes received for the potential Highway Dept. employee. CW will contact the consensus candidate.
AA informs the Board that a Public Hearing has been scheduled for 7-25-05 at 7:30 PM to act on a liquor license transfer at the Card Lake Inn.
AA reminds the Board that the $12,000 Homeland Security grant has to be in by August 1.
Board approves the nominations (made by Bob Salerno) of 3 members to the Historical Commission: Christian Goodwillie, Scott Sawyer; and Patricia Soldati.
BOS reviews and approves end of year line items transfers per Municipal Relief Act. Paperwork will be passed along to FinCom for their concurrence.
AA has applied for a certificate of insurance for Berkshire Bank on behalf of the Zucchini Festival.
Michael Kirchner is named as the Alternate to the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission.
AA informs the Board that the FY ’04 audit has been completed. An exit conference will be set up. Jim Podolak (DOR) is on vacation for the next 2 weeks. When he returns, calls can be made to come up with a mutually agreeable time.
Board reviews a note from FinCom Chair Carol Kuller requesting additional information on the pending end of year transfers and approval to use one of the Village School classrooms for future FinCom meetings. Board welcomes all Town boards to use the Village School.
MK asks that Chief Cooper be instructed to attend next week’s Board meeting to provide an update on staffing, hiring, scheduling, speed trailer and other Police Dept. activities. MK asks and the Board agrees to send Chief Coopers employment contract to Town Counsel for a general review.
9:20 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_______________________ ________________________ _____________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: __________________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
June 27, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
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.
Board reviews and signs off on a driveway permit for Sue Brennan.
Other Items: Fire Chief Peter Skorput informs the Board that the County Communications Center is being moved from the County Courthouse to the County Jail.
CW has several applications for the new position of Buildings/Grounds/Highway Dept. employee. He will bring them to the next meeting for review and recommendations.
CW informs the Board that Zach Summers will be working under his direction for several hours on a community service/Boy Scout project.
Zucchini Festival organizers will discuss an announcement sign/banner with the Board at the next BOS meeting.
Board reschedules Sportsmen’s Club public hearing for Change of Manager to July 11 at 6:30 PM.
Senior Center meeting is July 11 at 7:00 PM. Tom Webb of Berkshire Housing will also attend.
Town Hall Study Committee provides a written update on their progress to date.
AA informs the Board that Lightship Telecom, who is consulting on a new phone system at Village School, has reviewed the Town’s current phone bills and has made changes that will save the Town approx. $100/month on long distance charges. They will come back with a full review in the next few weeks.
AA informs the Board that he is revising the building permit application at the recommendation of the State Building Inspector to include the standardized State application form. A discussion on the application process ensues. MK notes that one of the biggest complaints he has heard is from persons experiencing difficulty in getting their applications processed. There should be better coordination between inspectors to make for a smoother process. Board instructs AA to be the designated coordinator for the Building Permit Application process.
AA informs the Board that, as a Steering Committee member, he will be attending a Household Hazardous Waste meeting tomorrow at 10:00 in Lee.
7:10 PM: Board ends their business session to attend a Planning Board meeting at the Town Hall. The Board has Special Permit Application before the Planning Board for a change of use for the Village School. The application seeks a change from educational to municipal use.
8:15 PM: Planning Board continues the Special Permit hearing for 2 weeks because the change of use application is incomplete. A certified plot plan showing the location of the building on the property should have accompanied the application.
8:20 PM: There being no further business to discuss, the Board closes their meeting.
Minutes approved by:
____________________ ______________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: _______________
Board of Selectmen
<>Meeting Minutes
June 20, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
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 signs warrants. Board does not approve an item which pays the Local Yokel $500 from the Youth Services Fund which falls under the heading of the Parks and Recreation Committee. A few months ago, the BOS informed the Parks and Recreation Committee that it was inappropriate to pay any money from their line item appropriation to the Local Yokel. The Board raises the same issue regarding the Youth Services Trust Fund. The Board questions how a connection is made between Youth Services and an independent community newsletter.
BOS reviews and signs off on building permit for Bob Powell.
BOS reviews and signs off on driveway cut David Pearlson.
BOS and Chief Cooper will attend annual Tanglewood luncheon at Seranak on June 30th.
BOS, acting as Sewer and Water Commissioners, reviews and grants a water bill abatement to St. Patrick’s Church Rectory. A memo to that effect will be forwarded to Town Accountant.
7:05 PM: No one representing the Sportsmen’s Club shows up for the scheduled public hearing to consider the Club’s request for a Change of Manager. AA reports that the return receipt for the certified letter sent to the Club informing them of the meeting was not returned – no one picked up the letter. Following a discussion, it is decided to re-schedule the hearing for the next Board meeting.
7:10 PM: Joan Rehm, along with several seniors, addresses the Board regarding the future of a Senior Center in West Stockbridge. Joan reads a long letter (attached) reiterating her displeasure with the Selectmen.
CW answers some of the items raised in Joan’s statement and provides the audience with a history of the Senior Center grant application process and the Selectmen’s actions and reasons why.
ED asks if a stand alone Senior Center building could fit on the Village School campus. Joan says yes.
MK suggests that everyone move forward. “Let’s bury the hatchet and work together and move on”. MK suggests reviewing other Senior Centers in the county then meet again with the Council on Aging.
It is noted that there is a Planning Board meeting next Monday that will consider a change of use for the Village School from educational to governmental. It might be a good opportunity to ask the Planning Board about the impact of adding a building to the Village School property.
Following a general discussion on Senior Centers, the Board instructs the AA to do related research and to speak with Berkshire Housing and Community Development about the DHCD grant program. A meeting is set for July 11th to continue the Senior Center discussion.
Building Inspector Jim Vosburgh and Zoning Enforcement Officer Walt Potash discuss the building permit process with the Board.
Jim suggests that the Town switch to the standardized State building permit application. Board agrees. It is suggested that the Tax Collector be included in the review process to ensure that applicant taxes are current - as is currently done with all other permits and licenses that the Town issues.
MK states that the number 1 complaint that he hears regarding the process is that it takes too long and that there is too much running around by the permit applicants seeking approvals from the various Town inspectors and officials.
It is suggested that a central depository and circulation center be established for building permit applications. Applicants can drop off their paperwork and inspectors can check the depository on a regular basis to review applications.
Board instructs AA to set up and be the coordinator/clearing house for a revamped building permit process.
Jim informs the Board that they are both staying current with the State continuing education requirements for Building and Assistant Building Inspectors. Board thanks both men for attending the meeting.
Other Items: CW discusses an upcoming building permit application to be submitted by Dale Culleton for a property at the corner of Maple Hill Rd. and West Center Road. It is not clear whether the property meets zoning requirements for building. The Board reviews a related letter from Attorney Dana Marcus who represents Mr. Culleton. The Board decides to seek the opinion of the Planning Board before acting.
Board has a brief discussion regarding the Annual Town Meeting appropriation of $6,000 for a Town Hall study. It is noted that only the Selectmen are authorized to enter into spending agreements.
AA informs the Board that Thomas Scanlon Associates is in Town this week conducting the FY ’04 audit.
Board finishes the Annual Town Officer appointments. Of note is: the Board will no longer act as the Sewer and Water Commissioners. They have appointed a 5 member Board to terms of 1 year each. Also, the Board formed a new position of Investment Committee and fills it by appointing the Finance Committee.
AA informs the Board that Brad Richer has declined his nomination to the Sewer and Water Commission. Board suggests asking Lou Trionfo of Lenox Mt. to see if he’d be interested.
Chief Cooper will be on vacation next week. Officer Simonelli will cover.
There will be a County Group Purchase meeting next Monday at 10:00 to discuss the annual bidding for bulk purchases.
Board reviews a letter from Town Counsel Bill Hewig which states that Charter has assured him that a check will be mailed to the Town within 2 weeks for cell phone antenna revenue sharing owed.
Board reviews a proposal from Cardillo Plumbing to provide for future heat to the rear of the Village School. Board will revisit next meeting.
9:35 PM: There being no further business, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_____________________ _____________________ _____________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
June 13, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting.
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED); Curt Wilton (CW); Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present. Meeting is being held at Village School meeting room.
BOS reviews and approves previous Meeting Minutes.
BOS reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Board reviews and signs an agreement on behalf of the ConsCom to enable the ConsCom to hire a Wetlands Specialists in the event that they are uncomfortable making a determination on a Notice of Intent application. The Consultant’s fees would be paid for by the applicant. A Special Revenue Fund will have to be set up by the Town Accountant for this purpose.
6:50 PM: Stuart Kuller, Cemetery Commission Chair, provides copies of a letter to Board members regarding the FY ’05 Cemetery budget and an anticipated shortfall. CW gives a brief explanation why the ’06 Cemetery Dept. budget request was denied by the BOS including the fact that the budget had not been overspent in previous years. CW suggests that mowings for the rest of the fiscal year be scaled back, if possible, to minimize the potential account deficit. MK asks about the vendor who does the cemetery mowing and notes that in the future, State bidding laws (Ch. 30B) likely require that a mowing contract be put out to bid. MK offers the AA’s assistance in putting together a bid package for cemetery mowing.
7:05 PM: Fred Macytyre discusses a building permit application with the Board for work at the Williams River Country Store. BOS signs off on the application.
7:10 PM: Representatives from the West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club have failed to show up for tonight’s scheduled 7:00 PM hearing for a Change of Manager. MK instructs the AA to send the Club a notice to attend next week’s meeting for a rescheduled hearing via certified mail. If Club representatives fail to show again, they may then be considered in violation of their alcoholic beverages license.
Sue Brennan reviews a building permit for 42 E. Alford Rd. She notes that the 911 address has been corrected.
Chief of Police Cooper requests that the following be considered for annual appointment as Special Police Officers: Rosario Messina; Steve Cabral; Charles Simonelli; Bob Wood and; Carmen Guarda. BOS agrees to place those names on the Annual Appointment list for consideration.
Chief notes that the speed trailer is at John’s Garage being fitted with batteries and should be back in service soon. MK tells the Chief that he has heard from residents about speeding on Swamp Road. Chief says that he will rotate speed trailer at different locations every 3-4 days.
Chief reports on applications received for full-time Police Officer position. He has had several inquires and that some would be willing to work part-time. He will make copies of any applications received for the Board. Board will do the same if any applications are received at the Town Hall. Chief says that he has given out or has sent several application packages and that the Town Clerk has sent out 2.
ED asks the Chief on the status of the emergency trailer that was purchased through a grant from Homeland Security. Chief reports that it is still being outfitted.
Chief Cooper discusses a conversation he had with Jack Silverman about a tag sale he received a permit for which is coming up this weekend. Chief has concerns with traffic, parking and safety along Gt. Barrington Road and East Alford Rd. Chief says that he will speak with Mr. Silverman.
8:00 PM: Bob Powell discusses Harvey Mt. /Samantha Lane public access. Bob says that the topic was raised at a recent Vision Committee meeting. CW explains the Board’s earlier decision not to seek a small planning grant from the State for these 2 areas because of the mandated restrictions if the Town accepted the grant funding. The Town would have to sign over future development rights to the land for perpetuity and the Board was not comfortable doing so at the time.
Bob discusses beaver trapping at the Card Pond spillway. He says that Mr. Salvatore from Pittsfield has been trapping per the emergency order issued by the W.S. Board of Health.
Bob expresses some concerns with the turn around time and efficiency of the building permit process. The Board will ask both the Building Inspector and Zoning Enforcement Officer to their next meeting for a general discussion.
Other Items: Board has a general discussion about the terms of Chief of Police Cooper’s employment contract and its incompatibility with the term of his appointment. He has a signed 5 year contract, yet he works under a 3-year appointment. Board may revisit this item in the future.
CW informs the Board that there will be water service interruptions this Wednesday in the Iron Ore/Iron Mine Rd. areas because of a new service hook-up to a sub-division.
Board reviews updated Annual Appointed Officer’s list. Board hopes to finalize appointments at its next meeting.
ED signs Reserve Fund Requests for the FinCom to review and act on at their next meeting. An explanatory MEMO is included in the packet along with a budget detail of the overspent line items. According to the Town Clerk, the FinCom has not reorganized as yet but are expected to meet next Tuesday.
AA informs the Board that 4 out of the 5 people named to the Sewer and Water Commission have accepted their appointment. Brad Richer has declined. ED, Mark Webber, Antonio Pieropan and Marion Gordnier have accepted. MK suggests contacting Lou Trionfo to see if he would be interested in serving on the Committee.
Board reviews GL Ch. 40, Sec. 9 which states that the Town may (not shall) provide space for Veteran’s organization in municipal buildings. This item was brought up by Bob Korte at an earlier meeting.
MK informs the Board that he toured the Housatonic Elementary School storage area and viewed (and took pictures) of items that were taken from the Village School when it closed. MK has located several of the folding lunch seating/tables and the commercial mixer. Board reviews and signs a letter to BHRSD Supt. Donna Moyer requesting that the Town be able get these items returned.
8:50 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes accepted by:
_______________________ _________________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date ______________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
June 6, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
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 with the exception of the weekly payroll amount for Police Officer Simonelli for the week ending 6-4-05.
Other Items: Bob Korte informs the Board that the Jos. Libardi Post of the American Legion is thinking of selling their building on Gt. Barrington Rd. He says that there may be some issues of ownership/deed references that have to be cleared up first. If the building is sold, the Veteran’s wish to come to the Village School. Mr. Korte says that they will not be satisfied with shared space; they want their own dedicated room. He says that State law says that a Town must provide meeting space to veterans’ organizations. Board asks AA to contact the Town’s Veteran’s Agent Al Adams for clarification on the Town’s obligations.
Board refers David Slosek to the Building Inspector to obtain a building permit.
Contractor Sue Brennan updates the Board on her building activities and corrected 911 addresses off of East Alford Road.
Board discusses a request from the Berkshire Opera Company to use the Village School gym for rehearsals from July 22 – Aug. 16. MK expresses reservations about tying up the gym for 26 straight days to the exclusion of all others. AA points out that no offer of payment was made by the Company. ED expresses concerns with the cost of electricity and janitorial expenses that the Town would be bearing. CW notes that other groups may need the gym. Adult basketball is already scheduled for Monday nights. In the past, Crane Lake Camp has reserved the gym and parking lot for Parent’s weekend around the end of June. Also, the Zucchini Festival may need the gym for their purposes in the event of rain. Board will wait to speak to Parks and Rec. Chair Bob Powell, but they are of a mind not to approve the request.
Bob Powell discusses a beaver problem at Card Pond. He says that beavers are building a dam at the spillway. He is concerned with the ensuing threat to public safety (for swimmers) and requests that the Board apply for an Emergency Order from the Board of Health to remove the beavers. Board agrees. Bob also discusses the problem with dogs running loose at the beach and asks if he can put up a sign restricting dogs from the beach area. Board agrees.
Board discusses Berkshire Opera request with Bob Powell. Bob agrees with the Board that the request should be denied. Bob will contact Berkshire Opera.
CW informs the Board that he was told by Art Gennari that Art may own part of the Hill house on State Line Rd. Mr. Gennari just had a survey of his holdings in that area and it indicated that a portion of the Hill house was on Gennari property. Board reiterates its position that it wants the house removed and that the property is in tax title and working its way through land court. As soon as it is disposed by the court, the Town is free to do as it wishes with the property. At that point, Mr. Gennari would have to deal with the Town. Until then, he would have to discuss any claim he might have with the land court.
Board reviews a MEMO listing potential appointees to the revised Water and Sewer Commission. The five names being nominated are: Anthony Pieropan, Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Brad Richer, Marion Gordnier and Mark Webber. Board agrees with the nominations and will send each a letter asking them to accept their appointment. An organizational meeting is scheduled for 6-23 at 7:00 PM. CW notes that there are several areas of Town where the sewer could be expanded. It will take work on the Commission’s part to make it happen. The Board is not able to devote the time necessary run a Commission.
AA distributes a list of Town Appointed Officers for the Board to review in anticipation of making appointments at their 6-20-05 meeting. Board reviews the list and notices some names that are not accurate and some Boards such as the Safety Committee that really has no function and should be eliminated. AA will present a revised list at next week’s meeting.
CW discusses his intentions for Highway Dept. employee wages for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2005. He proposes a 3% increase to John Lyford and CW and a 7% increase to Peter Skorput. These increases will put all three in the middle of the pack in comparison with like sized neighboring communities. Board agrees with CW’s proposal.
CW would like to ask the Council on Aging in to meet with the Board at the appropriate time for a discussion on the space needs for seniors in the Village School. He notes that the immediate priority is to move the Town offices into the school but that the seniors can be accommodated. Board agrees; no date set.
AA informs the Board that several FY ’05 Town budget line items are either overspent or will be by the end of the fiscal year. AA gave a MEMO to the FinCom back in April informing the FinCom that we would likely be in this position and that Reserve Fund requests would be forthcoming. AA informs the Board that the 2004 Municipal Relief Bill allows towns to transfer up to 3% of original individual line item appropriations to deficit line items (in the last 2 months of the fiscal year) without going to Town Meeting. FinCom concurrence is required. AA suggests that a letter requesting some line item transfers, along with Reserve Fund requests be brought before the Board at their next meeting – once the Town Accountant runs another week of year to date budget to actuals. Board agrees.
Board reviews a draft note to BHRSD Supt. Donna Moyer re: Village School furniture. MK suggests some changes in the letter. Board agrees.
Board takes note that the Planning Bd. has scheduled a Public Hearing for June 27 to consider the Town’s request for a change in use for the Village School from education to municipal offices.
A public hearing is set for June 13 at 7:00 PM at the Village School to hear a request from the West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club for a Change of Manager.
MK reads a letter from Maxymillian stating that hazardous materials remediation has been successfully completed at the former Kingsmont Camp property.
8:50 PM: There being no additional business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn. CW seconds the motion; vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ ____________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: _______________
<>
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
May 19, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting.
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW) and Michael Kirchner (MK). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Meeting is taking place in the Town Hall Library, Main St.
CW makes a motion to reorganize the Board and nominates Elizabeth DiGrigoli as Chairman, CW as Clerk and MK as Secretary. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Board reviews Annual Town Meeting warrant items and divides up the articles to speak to if questions from the meeting floor are asked.
Other Items: Board reviews a sign permit application from Antiqualia. Following a discussion and it is decided that the application as presented does not completely conform to the Town’s Zoning By-laws. The permit application will be returned to the applicant with details of the non-compliances. The applicant may re-submit with corrections.
8:30 PM: There being no other business before the Board, CW makes a motion to adjourn. MK seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes accepted by:
______________________ ______________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli, Chair Curt Wilton Michael Kirchner
Date: _____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
May 9, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Lawrence Tonini (LT), Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Board reviews and approves 2 building permits.
Other Items:
Board reviews and discusses MEMO to State Building Inspector Gordon Bailey re: construction requirements related to change of use at Village School and his response. In short, Mr. Bailey stated that there are several items to consider when converting a building from Educational to Business use but that the items should not be a hurdle (MEMOS attached).
Board signs a Special Permit application for a change in use at Village School. The Planning Board will schedule a hearing on the application.
Board reviews a letter received from Irving Pickard of Samantha Lane who states his unease with the potential of increased use of the right-of-way over and beyond Samantha Lane to the Town owned property on Tom Ball Mt. (letter attached). Mr. Pickard cites a story in the Local Yokel about a grant being sought to map and develop trails through Town owned recreation areas. AA points out that the article might not be accurate because the Selectmen chose not to apply for the grant program in question because of the strings attached to doing so. The Town would have had to sign a permanent conservation restriction on both Harvey Mt. and Tom Ball Mt. that would have severely limited the Town with any future use options for the lands. Board asks AA to draft a response to Mr. Pickard for their review.
Board reviews and approves for mailing a letter to Bill Kie re: keeping his horses on his own property or face a public hearing – per the Animal Control Officer.
Board instructs AA to order display U.S. and Mass. flags for the Village School meeting room.
ED asks about getting a Town flag made up. A recent newspaper report stated that W. Stockbridge was one of a few communities that did not have a flag at the State House. AA suggests having a design competition and run it through the Local Yokel.
Board discusses reforming the Board of Sewer and Water Commission. Today, the Selectmen act as the Commission and the Board would like to appoint 5 members who would be able to devote more time. ED and the AA say they will sit on the Board, at least for as long as to get the new Commission off the ground. CW says that he will also help out. Board will put together a pool of names and appoint a Commission within the next few weeks.
Board re-schedules the Change of Manager hearing for the Sportsmen’s Club for June 6 at 7:00 PM at the Village School meeting room. The hearing was originally scheduled for tonight but the applicant called and asked for an extension.
AA reports that DOR has certified the Town’s FY 2004 free cash at $428,000.
8:30 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW and ED thank LT for his many years of service to the Town as Selectmen and wish him well. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Approval of Meeting Minutes By:
_____________________ _______________________ _______________________
Lawrence Tonini, Chair Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
May 2, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Lawrence Tonini (LT) out of town on business. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
6:50 PM: Robert Karisdorf, Maple Hill Rd., speaks to the Board regarding issues he’s having with the Board of Assessors and the revaluation of his residence. He notes that he’s had disagreements with Assessor Irene Skorput over the years. Recently, his value increased over 25%, or $100,000. He thought it was a mistake and came to see the Assessors.
Mr. Karisdorf states that his house is for sale and Irene had a copy of the advertisement which lists the house at $1.3M. Prior to the recent revaluation of his property, it was assessed at $441,000. The new assessment brought the value to $541,000. Mr. Karisdorf then produced a recent appraisal from Berkshire Appraisals which values the property at $700,000. Mr. Karisdorf is upset with the method used to revalue, not necessarily the new value. He doesn’t think an advertisement should trigger a revaluation. He thinks he was singled out.
Both ED and CW point out that the Assessors are an independently elected Board and are not under the authority of the Selectmen. CW notes that Irene does a fine job. Although the Selectmen are willing to listen, they have no authority. Former Assessor Ray Smith offers that Mr. Karisdorf’s avenue of appeal is with the Assessors and if he is dissatisfied with the results, he can appeal to state land court. Mr. Karisdorf thanks the Board for listening.
7:25 PM: Ray Smith and Bob Korte, representing the American Legion post, address the Board about securing meeting space for the veterans because they are considering selling the American Legion building on Gt. Barrington Road. Board responds that there will be plenty of meeting room at the Village School and they are welcome to use it. There is also armory storage available in the Village School basement.
7:30 PM: Board reviews and signs off on a building permit application for Bill Kie. Chief of Police Cooper takes the opportunity to tell the Board that he has heard from Animal Control Officer Marty Clark about Mr. Kie’s horses that keep getting out of their fenced areas and, then, bother neighbors and their horses. Mr. Clark suggests scheduling a hearing to deal with the matter. AA will contact Mr. Clark to review the matter.
7:35 PM: Bob Powell presents detailed construction plans for the Assessor’s office conversion. Bob is given a copy of a MEMO sent to the Planning Bd., Building Inspector, Zoning Enforcement Officer and State Building Inspector seeking advice on the impacts of a change in use from a school to municipal. Board reviews the plans and expresses its pleasure with Bob’s work. As soon as a determination about the change in use issue is received, the work can get started.
Bob Powell, now speaking as the Parks and Rec Chairman informs the Board that he had a request from Berkshire Opera to use the gym for several weeks over the summer. Board expresses concern with tying up the gym for such an extended period and the fact that Berkshire Opera is a for profit company. Bob will speak with Berkshire Opera and get a more defined schedule request and report back to the Board.
7:50 PM: Chief Cooper, with Officer Simonelli present, addresses the Board about last week’s Board decision to reduce the police dept. FY ’06 salary account request. He says that the revised figure ($100,425) will leave the Department $12,800 short for maintaining services as present.
CW states that the ’06 police salary budget is up 16% and that he can’t support such an increase. ED agrees that the Chief should be able to manage within the appropriation. CW adds that if the Dept. becomes fully staffed as planned and the Chief runs short at the end of the year, then he has a few options to cover any shortfalls – Reserve Fund transfer or Special Town Meeting. If the overruns were legitimate, the Board would support a request to cover the shortfall.
The discussion shifts to full-time versus part-time officers. Chief Cooper maintains that it doesn’t matter how many hours per week a part-time officer works. An officer could work 40 hours per week and still be considered part-time. AA points out that according to MGL, a person who works 20 or more hours a week on a regular basis is considered full-time regarding health insurance and retirement.
CW says that he is sticking with the $100,420 salary figure for FY ’06. ED agrees.
CW asks what happens if no full-time officer is found to fill the vacant shift. Chief responds that he will staff with 2-3 part-time officers.
8:10 PM: Other Items:
AA asks the Board to review the warrants for the Annual Town Meeting and Special Town Meeting to be held on 5-23. The warrant needs to be signed no later than 5-9.
A Change of Manager public hearing for the West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club is tentatively scheduled for 5-9-05 at 7:30 PM. The applicant hasn’t confirmed the date yet.
AA relates a discussion with MassHighway re: Shaker Mill Bridge replacement project. MassHighway has successfully negotiated shrinking the impact area as far as the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species program is concerned. Accordingly, their impact survey will be limited to their immediate work area around the bridge – not the whole Mill Pond area. Accordingly, the Town will not be able to duplicate the same study for its aquatic weed removal proposal.
8:30 PM: There being no additional business, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_____________________________ ___________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton
Date: ______________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
April 25, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Lawrence Tonini (LT) unable to attend. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA), Michael Kirchner and Jim Fallon. No press present.
Board reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
ED asks that the AA contact the Town’s insurance carrier to get an update on Police Officer Simonelli’s accident claim and payments for lost wages.
6:45 PM: Bob Korte addresses the Board about his displeasure with the Cemetery Commission and their apparent lack of response to a fallen tree at the Town Cemetery. Mr. Korte states that “the place is a mess”. The tree in question fell last November 28th and is still on the ground.
CW states that Cemetery Commission Chair Stuart Kuller had been notified about the tree and that he was told that the Highway Dept. could clean up the tree but that it might be quite some time before they could get to it and that the Commission should seek out quotes from tree services. CW notes that his Dept. helps out other Town Departments willingly and whenever he can but because of Highway obligations, he can’t always accommodate other Departments. CW adds that the Commission requested an increase in its 2006 budget to cover the removal of large trees in the cemeteries but that the Board denied the request because it was felt that a more in depth plan be attached to the request and that the Commission has access to the Perpetual Care interest account without asking for Town money.
ED suggests writing a letter to the Cemetery Commission to inform them of Mr. Korte’s complaint.
7:00 PM: Steve Harding, Pixley Hill Rd., addresses the Board in response to a letter the Board received from Barbara Walker – a neighbor of Mr. Harding – who complained about the messy condition of his yard and his apparent operation of a tree business in a residential zone.
Mr. Harding notes that all of the vehicles seen on his property are legally registered and that he pays more in excise tax than in property tax. He is surprised that Ms. Walker would write a letter because he thought that they were friendly. Mr. Harding noted that Zoning Enforcement Officer Walt Potash had been to his property 3 times over the past 2 weeks and that he had found no evidence of zoning violations on his property. ED notes that the Board asked Mr. Potash to visit the property because of Ms. Walker’s letter.
When asked, Mr. Harding would not commit to a date when the filling of his front property would be done. Mr. Harding went on to say that he does not operate a logging business either from or away from his property. He is a farmer and landscaper. He also (within the past year) had Accord Engineering conduct a survey of his property but that his neighbors are disputing the resulting property lines of that survey.
CW notes that the Board often is placed in the position of acting as a referee in neighborhood disputes – that’s part of the job and is understood. However, if no zoning infractions are obvious then the Board cannot step in and tell people how there property should look or what they can do on it. CW asks Mr. Harding to do his best to keep his property in a neat manner and to also do his best to get along and be a good neighbor.
ED suggests that the Board respond to Ms. Walker with their findings with a copy to the Zoning Enforcement Officer and Mr. Harding. The Board thanks Mr. Harding for responding to their request to come to tonight’s meeting.
Other Items: AA presents a MEMO sent to the Planning Board and the Zoning Enforcement Officer and the State Building Inspector for an opinion on whether converting the Village School to Town Offices constituted a change in use and, if so, what were the procedures to make that change and the implications involved in making that change.
AA presents the Board with a Change of Manager request from the West Stockbridge Sportsmen’s Club. The Board will schedule a hearing at the earliest date that works for both parties. ED asks that the records from previous hearings involving the Sportsmen’s Club be brought to the hearing.
Board reviews a sign permit application for “Edible Adventures”. Board sees that the proposed signs exceed zoning requirements. Board instructs the AA to return the application without prejudice and ask that it be re-submitted with conforming sizes.
CW opens a discussion on the FY 2006 Police Dept. budget. He says that the increase in the operating budget is reasonable but that he cannot support the salary increase that was agreed to by the Board at the last meeting when CW was away on vacation.
CW notes that a part-time officer was lost this past Dec. 8th and the part-time officer acting as the full-time officer was lost due to injury in February. Applications for a full-time officer closed out in March but no applicants have been presented to the Board. CW notes that last week’s appointment of a part-time officer was fine but that he didn’t think his appointment would solve the issue of filling the full-time officer slot because he was not full-time academy trained. CW suggests that the full-time officer hiring process be started over with the applications being available at the Police Station and the Town Hall.
The Board then reviews the cost, for setting the FY ’06 Police Salary budget, of a full-time officer starting at $17/hr, the cost of coverage by Part-time officers for vacations, holidays and normal days off and up to a 3% salary increase for the Chief. The Board arrives at a figure of $100,425 and agrees to carry that number for purposes of printing the Town Report which was delayed by several days.
AA notes that these changes need to be conveyed to the Chief.
8:20 PM: ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
________________________ _________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton
Date: _________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
April 20, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Lawrence Tonini (LT), Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED). Curt Wilton (CW) away on vacation. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA), Chief of Police Cooper, Officer Simonelli, Rosario Messina, and Mike Kirchner. No press present.
Board reviews and approves weekly warrants.
Board reviews Steve Harding’s verbal response to Pixley Hill neighbor Barbara Walker’s letter to the Board concerning the mess and apparent operation of a business at Mr. Harding’s property. Walt Potash has been to the Harding property on 2 recent occasions to ascertain what activities are taking place on the property. AA tells the Board that Mr. Harding called following the 2nd Potash visit. AA suggested to Mr. Harding that he attend an upcoming Selectmen’s meeting to tell his story. Mr. Harding agreed and said that would be a good idea.
Board reviews Elizabeth Petty water bill. Board decides to send Ms Petty a new bill based on an historic average use over the past 16 quarters with an admonition that she replace or re-hook-up her water meter because she will be billed at the non-metered rate of $200/quarter in the future.
Board reviews 2 memos from the Planning Board regarding a request from Urbain to rent the kitchen at the Village School. Both memos state that the building is not properly zoned for such a use. LT suggests that since the original request from Urbain went directly to the Planning Bd. and the Planning Board responded, there was no need for the Selectmen to also respond. For the record, the Board is not interested in renting out the Village School kitchen to a private concern.
LT states that the Assessors should not occupy their planned office space at Village School until at least one more office is ready. LT feels it is unsafe for Amy to be in the building alone. If other offices are ready and occupied, then there is safety in numbers. LT suggests that plans move along but that no female should be alone in the building working. ED agrees.
7:15 PM: LT opens a discussion on Police Dept. FY ’06 budget request. Representing the Dept. is Chief Cooper.
A discussion opens on the operating budget. Board reviews Chief’s paperwork, including a comparison of other Chief salaries in the county. AA notes that as of the 4-2-05 budget to actual report, the Police Operating budget was at 68% spent and the Police Salary account was at 65% spent. The fiscal year is presently 75% through.
Following a discussion on the current and anticipated price increase in gasoline, LT suggests that the FY ’06 operating budget be increased by $2,000 from the current $15,000. Chief agrees. Board approves.
LT opens discussion on Dept. salaries. Chief offers a salary comparison survey he conducted with neighboring and other county Chiefs of Police. Mike Kirchner suggests that it is difficult to compare one department to another. Each community is different.
LT asks what the Chief currently makes in salary. Chief responds that he is paid $44,000 per year. Chief asks what the Highway Dept. salaries are. AA looks them up and responds.
Following a discussion about hiring a new full time officer at a starting rate of $17 per hour and calculations to cover days off per week, vacations, and holidays, a budget figure of $65,000 is arrived at to cover all regular and special officer salary expenses. The discussion then shifts to the Chief’s salary. For budgeting purposes, LT proposes a current year salary plus 3%. ED agrees to both the officer’s and the Chief’s budget salaries.
AA reminds the Board that CW has made his concerns with police dept. salaries and staffing in the past and that he should be in on the discussion before a final decision is made. However, the town report needs to be delivered to the printer tomorrow. AA suggests that the police budget be taken up again next week but tonight’s agreed upon figures can be put into the town report. The town meeting warrant doesn’t need to be signed until May 6th and although it is always preferable to have the town report and warrant figures match up, the warrant is the only official document. Both LT and ED agree.
8:25 PM: Chief Cooper introduces Rosario Messina and asks that he be appointed to the Department as a part-time officer. LT asks if Rosario is full-time academy trained. Chief responds that no he isn’t but Rosario has pledged to put himself through the academy at his own cost.
Mike Kirchner points out that the state law just changed and it is no longer allowed to self-fund academy training. An officer has to be sponsored by the Town and the Town has to pay for the training.
LT notes that the Chief’s intention of hiring Rosario with Rosario putting himself through the academy and becoming a full-time officer for the Town needs to be reconsidered. LT would consider hiring Rosario as a part-time officer because there is a need to fill shifts now. Rosario is known in Town and the Chief states that he has checked with the Chief in Gt. Barrington where Rosario already works part-time and he received a good report.
LT suggests that the position of full-time officer needs further investigation but that he would accept a motion to appoint Rosario as a part-time officer. ED agrees. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
8:50 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. LT seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes accepted by:
________________________ ________________________
Lawrence Tonini, Chairman Elizabeth DiGrigoli
Date: _______________
<>
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
April 11, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Lawrence Tonini (LT), Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
BOS reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
BOS reviews and approves weekly warrants.
6:45 PM: LT opens a discussion on Harvey Mt. Town owned open space. Board reviews a draft MEMO to the Planning Board from the Selectmen on the findings of surveyor Dennis Drumm who reviewed several property documents on the subject and surrounding properties. He found no evidence of a right of way or Town road through the former Kingsmont property but was reluctant to give an absolute opinion without conducting a full property survey. That survey would cost between $3,000-$5,000.
LT notes that this is the 3rd professional opinion given on the Town’s access rights to Harvey Mt. and none of them give much hope to the existence of any. He is reluctant to spend additional money at this point.
CW notes that the Board has done exactly what was asked of them by members of the public and the Parks and Recreation Committee as far as investigating the property. He agrees with LT and adds that the Town reserves the right to exercise its property rights in this area if and when they are shown to exist at any time in the future. The Town is not giving any of its rights away. The Selectmen thank the Planning Bd. for extending the courtesy of time to research the case but the Selectmen don’t want to hold up either the Planning Bd. or the area property owners any longer since the Town, at this time, is unable to demonstrate any access rights. Board agrees to the MEMO and sends it down to the Planning Board who is meeting on the subject this evening.
6:55 PM: Elizabeth Petty, Stockbridge Rd., addresses the Board in their capacity as Sewer and Water Commissioners about her outstanding water bill. She wants to pay her balance but is seeking an adjustment. She explains that she has had freezing problems the past 2 years on her service line and has had to keep the water running slowly to prevent freeze-ups.
CW explains the ownership and responsibility of water lines. The Town owns the mains up to and including the shut off valves where they meet the private service lines. Property owners have responsibility for their own service lines. Ms. Petty’s freezing problems were occurring in her service line. It is noted that Ms. Petty’s water meter has been disconnected for over a year since the last time a plumber did repairs at her house.
Following a discussion, the Board agrees to abate Ms. Petty’s outstanding water bill based on an average historic use over the past 20 quarters of use and instruct Ms. Petty to get her water meter hooked up or she will be charged the non-metered rate of $200/quarter in the future.
CW follows with a sewer discussion in the area of the Petty property. He notes that she has a failing septic system and it that it might be in her best interest to contact her 4 immediate downhill neighbors and discuss getting together to expand the sewer main from where it currently ends. 5 properties splitting the cost would be considerably less than 5 individual septic systems under new Title V regulations. Furthermore, it would be far more affordable for a private expansion of the main than if the Town contracted for the extension because of prevailing wage and other bidding constraints.
7:20 PM: Peter Thorne notifies the Board that he will conduct the town wide annual clean-up day on April 16th. He will notify the Chief of Police. The Highway Dept. will again provide equipment and will pick up the trash bags when filled. Board thanks Peter for annual effort.
Sue Brennan is issued a driveway cut permit off of E. Alford Rd.
7:30 PM: Andrew Mitchell, Pittsfield, hands in a resume to the Board for the open position of full-time Police Officer. Board reviews the resume and CW suggests that it be passed along to the Chief. CW thanks Mr. Mitchell and notes that the Board has not seen any applications yet for the position.
Other Items:
Peter Skorput, Fire Chief, asks the Board for permission to purchase a pressure washer for the Department. Board agrees, as long as there are sufficient funds in the budget. Peter also notes that there is leak in the Fire Station roof – maybe at the cupola. He will contact a contractor to investigate.
Board reviews a letter from Urbain Catering, Richmond to the Planning Bd. requesting to rent the Village School kitchen to run their catering business. LT states and the Board agree that the Village School kitchen is not for rent.
Bob Powell, Parks and Recreation Chair. submits an article for the Annual Town Meeting seeking to establish a capital fund for improvements to the Village School recreation grounds in the amount of $5,000. Board agrees to include it.
Mrs. Lazie, W. Alford Rd., reviews a building permit application with the Board.
8:00 PM: Bob Powell reviews final Village School office plans with the Board. AA notes that he has shown the project to a few contractors. Bob discusses windows, egress, handicap accessibility, fire codes, and need to speak with Building Inspector and Planning Board re: their opinion on possible change in use of the building space.
Bob asks the Board if it would be possible to charge a small fee to expedite the floor plans. He says that it would not exceed $1,000. Board agrees. Bob suggests that contractors meet with him at the school before beginning.
Additional: Board decides to dedicate this year’s Town Report to Lou
Items: Roviaro and 4 additional citizens/Town officials who passed since the last report.
CW updates the Board on a right of way issue involving neighbors and the West Center Chapel.
Board asks that the Chief of Police attend next week’s meeting to review and discuss his FY ’06 budget request.
Board approves to establish a new line item for the Cultural Council for the ’06 budget at $1,000. The budget request was for $2,000. LT commented that the Cultural Council receives a state grant each year and for the past few years has received $500 from the Selectmen’s Expense account. Establishing a line item is a more appropriate method than transferring from another line item and a $1,000 budget seems like a reasonable starting point and is $500 more than was received from Town funds than prior years.
CW presents 2 curb cut applications to the Board: Board approves Hoelter. Board denies Kantor because the design is in conflict with zoning.
ED asks for an update on Charter co-location fees. AA states that 2 letters have been sent to Town Counsel on the subject and that Atty. Bill Hewig (Kopelman & Paige) called last Friday and said that he will be sending a letter to the Board with an update.
9:07 PM: ED makes a motion to go into executive session for the purpose of discussing potential litigation against the Town and to return to open session upon completion. LT seconds the motion
Roll call vote taken on the motion: LT, aye; ED, aye; CW aye.
9:30 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Meeting minutes approved by:
_______________________ ________________________ ______________________
Lawrence Tonini, Chair Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton
Date: _____________
Board of Selectmen Meeting Minutes
March 21, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton, (CW), Lawrence Tonini (LT) not present – away on business. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
BOS reviews and approves previous meeting minutes
BOS reviews and approves weekly warrants.
BOS approves a demolition permit for Mark Fadding.
BOS approves a foundation permit for SK Design for Lot # 8, Silver Mine Lane. SK also delivers a check for $3,350 for lot #11 per agreement with the Town.
7:00 PM: Town Clerk Tina Cooper presents her FY ’06 operating budget to the Board. CW commends Tina for submitting a comprehensive and professional looking budget including comparisons and back-up data. Following a discussion, Board approves the line items in her budget. Another conversation takes place on the Clerk’s request to add free cash transfer articles in order to purchase a fireproof safe, new Clerk software and a new computer. The Board agrees to support the first 2 requests and asks Tina if she can purchase a new computer out of current year appropriations. AA will supply software that can be used to reduce the initial cost of the computer.
Board reviews a preliminary budget request from Chief of Police Cooper. The budget was presented to the AA earlier in the day. AA explains that the budget is preliminary. CW comments on the lack of back-up and comparative (year to year) data in the Chiefs submission. CW instructs the AA to meet with the Chief to help him formulate a more comprehensive budget. AA will meet with the Chief this week.
A request letter for a donation from the Town to support local school student Joshua Morse who is seeking donations to attend a young scholar’s conference in Washington. Board commends Mr. Morse and pledges a donation of $100.
ED asks AA to furnish a breakdown of co-location rental payments for Charter Cable for the next meeting. AA states that he sent a letter last week to Town Counsel urging that he light a fire under Charter to get out rental and technology equipment payments.
Town Clerk provides the Board with local option legislation for their consideration at the Annual Town Meeting. Chapter 60, Section 3d allows for a $1 voluntary add to everyone’s tax bill to help out the elderly in deferring some of their tax bills. Board agrees to support the law at the Annual Town Meeting.
Board agrees to change the previously discussed date for the Annual Town Meeting from 5-9-05 to 5-23-05. The Town’s auditors have indicated that they may not have FY ’04 audit financials completed in time for publication in the Town Report by the 5-9-05 meeting date. The Annual Election will remain the same date – 5-16-05.
AA asks the Board if they have any articles that they wish to add to the Annual Town Meeting warrant or if they have been approached by any citizens, committees or others to place any articles – spending or otherwise – on the warrant. ED and CW will contact persons involved in the Vision Committee and Town Hall Use group. Board will report back at next week’s meeting.
AA informs the Board that the Friends of the Library wish to schedule a lecture event for 5-13 at 7:00PM at the Village School. The topic is the history of railroads in W. Stockbridge. Board grants permission and thanks the Friends for their efforts.
8:20 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. ED seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes accepted by:
_________________________ _______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton
Date: _____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
March 14, 2004
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Lawrence Tonini absent – out of town on business. Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
7:00 PM: Bob Powell does a walk around with the Board to do a final review of the Town offices floor plan at Village School. Treasurer Bruce Turner is present. A few changes are made to some of the individual office layouts. It is decided to construct the offices using floor to ceiling sheetrock partitions with metal studs. Discussion ensues about heating, telephone, lighting and electrical needs. It is decided that once Bob edits his floor plan, a finalized version can be distributed to material suppliers and consultants. The Board thanks Bob for his efforts and is very pleased with his work.
Other items: Board signs a contract with Cardillo Plumbing and Heating for the boiler replacement project at the Village School. The contract and its submittals are in order and have been reviewed by the Town’s engineering firm. The contractor expects to start on or about April 15. He has started to bring some materials into the building and is storing them. The Board signs a building permit for the furnace replacement project.
CW notes that 2 fire doors have been installed in the basement. 1 for the record storage room and the other for the furnace room.
Board reviews new health insurance rates effective July 1 2005. The increase ranges from 13%-18% depending on the co-pay for office and emergency room visits. CW suggests that a MEMO be put in paychecks of those on the plan asking which deductible plan is preferred. A decision can be made after the survey is reviewed.
AA informs the Board that he sent a letter to Town Counsel seeking an update on counsel’s discussions with Charter on the status of our co-location rental payments and the technology fund payment as promised in the recently signed lease-license extension.
Board reviews the water shut off list. Notice will go out to those who are past due early next week.
Board reviews a letter received from Ross Dindio on the status of the Shaker Mill Bridge project. Mr. Dindio points out that – per the request of an earlier Board of Selectmen back in December 1998 – the bridge has been designed with a sidewalk on the south side of the bridge structure only. The bridge has been designed with a Texas railing. Mr. Dindio points out that it would not be practical to install sidewalks on each side – there is not enough land available.
AA will attend a Household Hazardous Waste Steering Committee meeting on 3-16 in Lee.
Board reviews and acts on several newly submitted FY ’05 departmental budget requests. A joint meeting had been previously scheduled with the FinCom to review budgets next Monday at 7:00 PM.
The Selectmen and the FinCom will attend a joint meeting with the Gt. Barrington Selectmen and Finance Committee on March 15th at the Gt. Barrington Town Hall to review the BHRSD FY ’06 budget.
AA gives the Board an update on research activities on Harvey Mt. The AA met with Monahan Abstracts at their office in Hudson, NY on 3-7-05. After a 45 minute exchange and review of information, Mr. Monahan – who is very familiar with the area surrounding Harvey Mt. – gave his opinion that the Town would not be well advised to pursue the possibility of a right of way or Town road through the former Kingsmont property into Town land on Harvey Mt. In his profession opinion, none exists and it would be a waste of money to investigate it further. The same information shown to Mr. Monahan was given to Dennis Drumm a surveyor from Windsor, MA who was recommended by Ed Denham. Mr. Drumm was asked to review the information with the same impartiality as Mr. Monahan was asked to do and report back his opinion on whether the Town may or may not have a case to pursue a right of way through the former Kingsmont property. A review of these meetings and findings was given to the Planning Board at their meeting last Tuesday by the AA and CW.
8:30 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. ED seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes accepted by:
_________________________ __________________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton
Date: ______________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
March 7, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Lawrence Tonini (LT), Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Also present, Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
BOS reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
BOS reviews and approves weekly warrants.
BOS reviews and approves a driveway cut permit for D. Culleton off of Maple Hill Road.
ED suggests that thank you letter be sent to KB and to Schweitzer-Mauduit for their help in securing and transporting donated office furniture.
ED suggests that something (fruit basket?) be sent to Police Officer Simonelli who broke his ankle while on duty.
BOS reviews and approves a curb cut for Dale Culleton off of Maple Hill Road.
Other Items: The Board agrees to meet with the Gt. Barrington Board of Selectmen at their regular meeting next Tuesday (3-15) at the Gt. Barrington Town Hall beginning at 7:00 PM. to participate in a discussion on the FY 2006 school district budget. The W.S. Board thought that a joint meeting would be a good opportunity to say hello and sit in on a neighboring Town’s selectmen meeting. Additionally, it would save the School Committee and District administration from another night out for meetings. District Superintendent Donna Moyer offered 2 nights that she could present the FY 2006 budget to the W.S. Selectmen – either the 15th or 16th of March. CW asks the AA to inform both the W.S. FinCom and the W.S. School Committee members.
In light of Officer Simonelli’s injury – he will be out of work for several weeks – CW asks Chief Cooper what his plans are for staffing in his absence. Chief Cooper responds that he has received only 2 resumes and that he will set up interviews soon for hiring a full-time officer. In the meantime, he’s not sure yet how he will fill the staffing gap.
Board reviews a maintenance contract from Troy belting for the Village School generator. CW suggests that the Board wait until he can speak with Troy about possibly expanding the contract to service the 2 generators at the WWTP. Perhaps Troy or the current service provider would give a better deal if either of them could service all of the Town’s generators in one contract. Fire Chief Peter Skorput adds that the Fire Dept. generator needed work also and should be considered to be added to the Town’s other 3 generators for a service contract.
AA to meet with surveyor Dennis Drumm tomorrow in Cheshire to review the Town owned Harvey Mt. property. AA will meet with Monahan Associates in Hudson, NY on the same subject on 3-9 at 2:00 PM.
DOR will conduct a FY 2006 budget workshop for Town officials on 3-28 at 7:00 PM. CW asks that the FinCom and Town Officers be notified and invited to attend.
Bob Powell will attend next week’s Board meeting to further discuss Village School office plans.
CW announces that he would like to work on a water main leak this Wednesday that has been discovered on Swamp Road. AA to send notices to WSBS and Berkshire Eagle that water service may be temporarily disrupted that day.
LT announces that he will not be able to attend next week’s meeting because he will be out of Town on business.
8:30 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_____________________ ______________________ ______________________
Lawrence Tonini, Chair Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton
Date: ________________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
February 14, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Lawrence Tonini (LT), Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW).
Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA).
No press present.
BOS approves previous meeting minutes
BOS approves weekly warrants
CW and LT discuss the emergency generator at Village School. Study will conducted to see if the unit can be converted to automatic switch over and at what cost.
Village School boiler replacement bids are discussed. Per the recommendation of the Town’s consultant, EDM engineer John Allysio, CW make a motion to award the contract to the low bidder Cardillo Plumbing and Heating. Discussion followed on whether to accept Bid Alternates #1 and #2. It is decided to accept Alternate #1 (future stub piping) and to delay a decision on Alternate #2 (allowance to service unit heaters). Including Alternate #1, Cardillo’s bid is $98,857 which is still the low bid (Alternate #1 included). LT seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor of awarding the base bid and Alternate #1 to Cardillo Plumbing and Heating.
7:10 PM: Bob Powell gives the Board an update on his Village School Town offices design efforts. Bob addresses parking and better access to offices and library and suggests that customer parking could be added adjacent to the west side of the building.
The Board would like to set aside a classroom for use by the Council on Aging for Senior Center activities. It is suggested that the classroom closest to the kitchen would be the best spot. A discussion follows on whether it should be designated as “community space” or “senior center” space. The Board reaffirms that they want the seniors to have a designated space. LT suggests that the Board speak with the COA to better determine their space needs.
Bob notes that he is speaking to a lighting consultant who is not charging a fee and that further discussions will take place with a communications consultant from Richmond once floor plans are more in place. Bob suggests that he meet with some of the Town officers in the office space and put tape on the floor to better visualize the individual spaces.
7:30 PM: John Parker, representing the “Local Yokel” addresses the Board about the group’s efforts to date and plans for the future. John notes that the volunteer local newsletter has been well received and the group has solicited donations and has sold ads and has received approximately $11,000 to date to offset publishing costs. Each issue has printed 500 copies and only a few copies have been returned as non-taken.
John states that the group might like to expand to 800 copies per issue and would like to bulk-mail the copies to all residents instead of distributing copies around Town for pick-up. John feels that a full circulation would better serve the public. John asks if the Town could subsidize the mailing costs because donations and ads will not cover the cost of an increase in copies published and their mailing. He suggests that $1,500-$2,000 would cover the costs. To date the newsletter has been self-supporting.
LT asks the question if other towns contribute municipal funds to community newsletters. AA responds that the few towns that he is aware of with newsletters (Sheffield, Monterey, Richmond and Cheshire) do not supply any town funding. AA will send an e-mail to the Berkshire Manager’s Group to get a more comprehensive look at what other communities are doing as far as contributing to local newsletters.
ED and LT raise the subject of the appropriateness of governmental funding of an independent newsletter. Although both support and applaud the efforts of the group, they are concerned over issues such as editorial control, content, and the evenness of political and other published positions. They are also concerned about the appropriateness of some of the publishing costs to date being borne by the Parks and Recreation line item appropriation. It is noted that the Parks and Recreation budget only has about $750 remaining through June 30th.
John is told that there are still a few weeks before final ’06 budgets are finalized and the matter of government subsidization is continued until a future meeting until more information can be gathered. John thanks the Board for their time and support.
Other Items: AA reminds the Board that he will be on vacation the week of Feb. 28-March 4.
AA reports that 75% drawings for the Route 102/Shaker Mill bridge project have just been received. The plans need to be reviewed to ensure that the 2 significant Town requests (Texas style bridge rails and sidewalks on both sides of the bridge) are included in the plans. CW and AA will speak with MassHighway. It is also noted that MassHighway is in the same position as the Town as far as the discovery of an endangered plant species in Mill Pond. The bridge project could well be delayed for a year or more. AA notes that he has put the MassHighway engineer and Lycott Environmental (the firm proposing to perform aquatic weed control in Mill Pond) in touch with each so that their efforts in identifying and protecting the endangered weed are not duplicated.
AA notes that he and CW attended the BHRSD School Committee meeting last Thursday when the District’s FY ’06 budget was presented to the public. Several more District budget hearings will take place before the final budget is adopted. The Board asks if District representatives and local School Committee members could attend a future Selectmen’s meeting to discuss the budget. AA will contact District Business Manager Matt Gillis.
AA will attend a Berkshire County Boards of Health Association meeting tomorrow at 4:30 in Pittsfield. The meeting will discuss plans for the mass immunization program.
AA notes that the ABCC has approved the all-alcoholic beverages restaurant license application for Aardvark Wine Co.
A letter from the Board has been given to the Planning Board stating the Board’s request for a little more investigative time to determine any Town rights of way or Town roads through the former Kingsmont Camp property to Town owned land on Harvey Mt. A letter of opinion on the matter from Town Counsel was also supplied to the Planning Board. The letter suggests that although no evidence has been presented to date of a Town right of way or road through Kingsmont property, further investigation of abutting properties might be in order. A previous Board meeting capped the cost of such further investigation at $1,500.
Board reviews a draft timeline for FY ’06 budget review and Town Meeting.
AA notes that John Olander, the Town’s health agent, turned over more than $9,000 in receipts to the general fund in FY ’04. AA notes that John and his created position are working out very well and he is paying nearly his entire salary out of receipts he has generated.
AA notes that the Town has received 2 escrow checks for $3,300 each from Silver Mine LLC for future paving costs associated with their approved sub-division off of Iron Ore Rd. CW and the Planning Bd. are responsible for gaining this benefit to the Town.
Board reviews and approves a help wanted ad for a full-time Police Officer.
Board reviews and approves a MEMO to the Planning Board expressing their concern over the apparent naming of a new road to access building lots off of Lenox Rd. Self-naming driveways as Town roads leads to confusion for public safety personnel and others.
Board reviews a copy of a letter sent to the Zoning Enforcement Officer by Dick Lavallette who is concerned with potentially encroaching building activities by his neighbor.
Board reviews an opinion from Town Counsel which speaks to the Town’s responsibility to collect fines from those who fail to register as DBA’s with the Town Clerk. The Town is under no obligation to enforce an MGL provision which allows the Town to fine those who fail to register or re-register. If the Town becomes aware of someone who is not registered then the Town is obligated to inform that person that they must register with the Town Clerk.
Board reviews and acts on several FY ’06 departmental budget submittals. The budget book will be left on the round table at Town Hall for the FinCom to act on at their next meeting. An e-mail was sent to FinCom Chair Alan Thiel informing him of same and suggested dates for a joint budget meeting with the Board.
9:00 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ _______________________
Lawrence Tonini, Chair Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton
Date: ________________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
January 24, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Lawrence Tonini (LT) Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA).
No press present.
BOS reviews and approves previous meeting minutes.
BOS review and signs warrants.
6:45 PM: Fire Chief Peter Skorput addresses the Board about his concerns regarding the Village School and some instances of doors being left open and fire exits being blocked. He would like to see better policing of activities at the school. Peter also pointed out that all of the fire extinguishers needed to be updated.
Parks and Recreation Chair Bob Powell noted that every group that uses the gym appears on a schedule and if there are other activities or persons using the school or the gym then they are doing so without permission. Bob will continue to keep a close eye on activities. It was suggested that a list of who’s using the building could be made available to the Fire Chief.
7:00 PM: Other items:
Bill Kie gives an update on his continuing research into the Kingsmont/Harvey Mt. right of way/town road issues. He has spent time at the Columbia County, NY Registry of Deeds. He suggests that further deed research of the abutters in necessary. The Board discusses spending a limited amount for that purpose and asks Mr. Kie to bring back a proposal from a qualified deed researcher.
Jim Dominique expresses his annoyance with the Board for delaying his request for a Class III auto junk license. He said that he will return in 2 weeks for a public hearing. Mr. Dominique is told that the Selectmen, not applicants set dates for public hearings and that there are still unanswered questions previously posed to Mr. Dominique. No public hearing date is set.
The Board discusses a faxed request from Attorney Lori Robbins to the Town Clerk asking that she sign a letter stating that the she has researched Town records and that no Town Meeting action was taken on roads during a specific period in the mid-1800’s. The letter was forwarded to Town Counsel for an opinion.
An update is given on the contractor’s meeting held last week for the boiler replacement at Village School. The bid opening will be Feb. 3rd at the Town Hall.
AA sent an update on Town Meeting and funding scenarios to Joel Hotchkiss on the Town Hall investigation. The letter also stated the availability of numerous records on past studies of the Town Hall that are boxed and available for viewing at the Town Hall.
AA sent additional information to Bob Powell who is working on office layouts for the Village School.
AA reports on a meeting held last week with Town officials from Gt. Barrington, Stockbridge, W. Stockbridge, Supt. Moyer and School Committee Chair Steve Bannon. As in past years, the BHRSD Supt. called the meeting to give a preview of the District’s FY ’06 budget and to listen to any feedback from the Towns. She suggested that the capital budget will be reduced slightly from the current year and that the operating budget will likely increase from 3%-5%.
AA reminds the Board of the NOI Public Hearing by the Conservation Commission on aquatic weed control of Mill and Card Ponds scheduled for Feb. 3 at 7:30 PM at Village School. Certified mail notice has been sent to all abutters, a notice was given to the “Local Yokel”, a legal ad has been printed in the Berkshire Eagle and 2 notices have been sent to the Berkshire Eagle for publishing under the “Worth Noting” section.
A thank you letter has been sent to Sheriff Massimiano for providing a painting crew for the Village School. A request was added for painting the remaining 2 classrooms.
Change of Manager Approval from the ABCC has been received for the Sportsmen’s Club.
Board signs a letter of intent to participate in the Household Hazardous Waste program. The Town has been a member of the group for the past several years. The cost to participate will be the same as the past 2 years.
AA passes along concerns expressed by the ConsCom about apparent expansion of gravel mining at the John S. Lane gravel pit. LT provides a contact name at John S. Lane that will be given to the ConsCom.
8:15 PM: There being no further business to discuss, ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
______________________ _____________________ ______________________
Lawrence Tonini, Chair Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
January 10, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting.
Quorum present: Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED), Curt Wilton (CW).
Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
Board approves weekly warrants.
Carol Kuller asks the Board to hear her concerns about reconciling the Arts Lottery account with the Town Treasurer and Town Accountant. She has attempted to arrange a meeting with the Town Accountant to resolve discrepancies but the Town Accountant responded with a letter instructing Carol Kuller to put her questions in writing. Carol Kuller presents a copy of the letter from Maryellen Brown. Following a brief discussion, CW states that he will host a meeting this Wednesday at 1:00 PM to address and settle this ongoing matter. Present at this meeting will be the Town Accountant, the Town Treasurer and Carol Kuller. Carol agrees and thanks the Board.
Other Items: AA informs the Board that he met with Bob Powell to go over office space plans at Village School. Bob has offered to help draft layout plans for Town offices. CW comments that this is an example of the Town utilizing volunteer local professional talent.
AA states that the FY ’06 budget process has begun. Departmental budget requests will be going out. AA states that BHRSD will have its 1st budget meeting this Wednesday. CW states that he would like to attend some of those meetings.
Board will not meet next Monday because of the holiday.
Chief of Police has been asked to attend 1-24 meeting to discuss Department staffing plans.
7:15 PM: ED makes a motion to go into Executive Session to discuss pending litigation and to return to open meeting session upon completion of discussion. CW seconds the motion. Roll call vote taken: ED, aye; CW, aye.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
January 10, 2005
7:15 PM
Village School
AA presents a letter just received from Town Counsel Deborah Eliason which discusses the Harvey Mt. right of way/public access matter as it relates to the former Kingsmont Camp property. Board reviews the letter but delays taking any action on Town Counsel’s recommendations until their next meeting when a full Board is present.
7:25 PM: ED makes a motion to close the Executive Session and return to open meeting. CW seconds the motion. Roll call vote taken: ED, aye; CW, aye.
7:25 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to close the meeting. He will go from this meeting to the Planning Board meeting taking place at the Library. ED seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Meeting Minutes approved by:
___________________ ______________________
Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton
Date: _________
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Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
January 3, 2005
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Lawrence Tonini (LT), Elizabeth DiGrigoli (ED) and Curt Wilton (CW). Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA)
Press present: Berkshire Eagle.
Board approves previous meeting minutes.
Board signs weekly warrants.
Board discusses and reviews a draft response to Levin (Easland Rd.) letters and how to respond to their stated concerns about the condition of their common driveway and associated runoff and silting. Although the Board is sympathetic to the Levin’s claims, the matter was previously discussed and resolved at an October 2003 meeting with the then owner/builder of the driveway. The driveway did not fall under the strict interpretation of a newly discovered 1969 driveway bylaw because it did state the Highway Superintendent’s concerns in writing. The Highway Supt. did and still does have concerns about the slope and drainage of the driveway. A subsequent driveway by-law has much stricter standards dealing with slope and construction. However, this driveway was constructed and prior to Town approval of that by-law. Board will send a response to the Levins with the suggestion that the Conservation Commission may be able to offer something. LT suggests that although the Board does its best to mediate any dispute, this case seems to be one between the owner and the contractor.
Tony Campetti asks if the Building Inspector can refuse to issue a Certificate of Occupancy if he feels the driveway or any other issue with a new residence is inadequate. Answer is yes.
Ogden Gigli asks a general question about the liability of Town Inspectors who issue permits if and when the permitted system is substandard or fails. All Town Officials are covered under the Town’s Officers Error and Omissions insurance. Additionally, MGL provides indemnification in many circumstances for Town Officials.
7:40 PM: Discussion opens regarding Town owned recreation land on Harvey Mt. and rights of way thereto. In attendance are several members of the public, Randy and Sheila Thunfors – principals of the development company working on the former Kingsmont Camp property and Lori Robbins, attorney for the development company.
CW opens the discussion by giving a review of events to date. Back in March 2004, Parks and Recreation began a survey of Town owned open space and recreation land. Harvey Mt. was identified as such a parcel. At the request of Parks and Rec. investigations began into public access to Harvey Mt. A sense of urgency arose more recently because of the former Kingsmont developer’s plans to seek a special permit for common driveways on parcels abutting Harvey Mt. To date the evidence of a town right of way is inconclusive, but the Selectmen have hired Town Counsel to investigate further and are awaiting an opinion. From that opinion, the Board can better determine whether it may have a case of a right of way or not and or how to proceed in that determination and how much a further investigation might cost.
LT explains that the Town acquired approximately 90 acres on Harvey Mt. back in 1934 through a tax taking.
Lori Robbins explains her extensive deed research involving Harvey Mt., abutting properties, and the former Kingsmont property in particular.
A question is asked whether there are any laws prohibiting landlocked land. Attorney Robbins responds, no.
Lori Robbins reads materials from Town Historian Edna Garnett’s books on West Stockbridge. She notes that many mountain tops in the region were purchased and the forests cut for charcoal. Charcoal was then brought to the main roads via a variety of ways.
Dominick Luchi states that there appears to be remnants of a wood road through the Kingsmont property and Harvey Mt. but that it is not continuous from the top to W. Alford Rd.
A discussion ensues regarding old wood roads throughout the region.
Lori Robbins states that she has researched the chain of title for the Kingsmont property from Easland – described as the first white settler in the region – up to present and she has found no rights of way or easements granted to the Town.
Lori Robbins states that another way the Town could acquire a right of way through Kingsmont is by prescriptive use. However, it might be difficult for the Town to demonstrate a 20 year continuous use of the land by a Town official or for official use by the Town. Lori Robbins adds that an official survey of Harvey Mt. was never conducted by the Town or others.
William Kie asks if Lori Robbins has the deed from Rohrabacher to Zucker. Answer, yes. William Kie also has a copy and reads the language.
Lori Robbins shows an atlas from 1876 and it does not show any town ways from W. Alford Rd. through Kingsmont to Harvey Mt. Furthermore, a 1904 atlas and 1900 map don’t show town roads in the area either.
Sheila Thunfors shows pictures of stone monuments that depict mile markers and border markers between NY and MA along the ridge of Harvey Mt. She contends that not all markers are found on roadways and shows pictures of markers not on roadways.
Lori Robbins reads an affidavit from Keith Zucker stating all hikers were asked to leave the Kingsmont property. Kingsmont did not encourage hikers. Lori goes on to say that prescriptive use could be proved by an individual but that right is not transferable to the Town.
Dominick Luchi states that he has spoken to several hunters who have accessed Harvey Mt. through other abutting lands – not Kingsmont.
Ogden Gigli states that there are several wood roads leading through the area and they are not limited to Kingsmont property. He goes on to say that he sees the proposed development as a good project if done properly and that right of way issues should be worked out between lawyers for the developer and the Town. Access to Harvey Mt. would be great but it would have to be proven to exist. He suggests that some other access arrangements might be worked on.
Irene Skorput reads from the Rohrabacher to Zucker deed that reads that conveys “certain rights of way”.
Lori Robbins responds that that language refers to West Alford Rd. not any other right of way or Town Rd. through the Kingsmont or Harvey Mt. property.
Carol Kuller asks if it is the position of the Kingsmont owners not to grant a right of way to the Town.
Randy Thunfors answers that at present, they are not interested. He doesn’t want to be bullied into granting public access across his property. He asks why he has been singled out. There are several others abutters – several of whom are in the room tonight – that could grant access to Harvey Mt. Randy asks Mr. Campetti if he would be willing to grant public access through his land. Mr. Campetti responds that he would have to think about it.
Sheila Thunfors notes that there is already easy access through New York State to Harvey Mt. There is a roadway and parking that leads right to the top of the Town’s land on Harvey Mt.
Randy Thunfors notes that he has come up with a development plan for Kingsmont that is sensitive to the environment. He adds that he is willing to discuss any options for public access but he will not be extorted. He adds that he has been beaten up over this project and resents the treatment he has received. He has lived in this Town for 25 years and has always done right by the Town. He states that he was instrumental in obtaining several acres of recreation land on the top of Samantha Lane several years ago.
Lori Robbins states that no evidence has been presented that a roadway exists through Kingsmont to the top of Harvey Mt. Furthermore, no evidence has been found for a deeded right of way through Kingsmont...
Randy Thunfors suggests that all the abutters should be considered in some public right of way scheme. He would be willing to participate if other abutters would.
Tony Campetti states that the Selectmen have just been doing their job. They have followed up on claims that the Town had legal access through Kingsmont to Harvey Mt.
9:00 PM: LT moves to close the discussion. He notes that the Board is not trying to give anyone a hard time. A request came to the Board and they are following through. Tonight’s meeting has been a fact finding mission. In response to a question on what the next step would be, LT says that the Board has requested an opinion from Town Counsel on the strength or lack of for its assertion of having public access to Harvey Mt. When that recommendation is received, the Board will discuss options.
9:10 PM: Other items:
AA gives the Village School painters’ schedule. They should be done with the 4 classrooms by the middle of next week.
CW gives the Board estimates he has received to replace electrical equipment at the WWTF. It is agreed that new, not rebuilt, equipment should be used.
Board discusses Levin driveway issue. LT states that the Town can not be responsible for the condition of the driveway. It’s a matter best dealt with between the owner and the contractor. Board reviews a draft letter of response to the Levins. Board approves the letter but adds a sentence that the Levins may wish to contact the ConsCom to get their opinion or suggestions.
AA states that he is scheduled to meet with Tom Webb (Berkshire Housing) and Steve McAllister (architect, Clark and Green) later in the week to discuss the finalizing the resubmittal of the Senior Center grant application. Following a discussion, the Board agrees to pull back for the time being from submitting the application as it is. LT states that he and many others have been uncomfortable for some time that the Town was giving up too much space in the Village School. It has been noted in previous meetings that the Town will need every bit of the school for its future uses. LT strongly supports having a Senior Center but space in the Village School is not the best place. He would strongly support an application to build a stand alone Senior Center somewhere else on the Village School campus. AA points out that the application timeline is rigid and that there would not be time to submit a new application for a different project for this round. The Town would have to wait until next year. Also, the Town would have to appropriate additional money to design a new building. Current plans would not be transferable. Board agrees that, although the decision is not pleasant to make, it cannot go forward with current plans.
Board agrees to reschedule the Annual Town Officer’s meeting to January 31 at the Williamsville Inn. LT will coordinate with owner Candy Wendt.
Jim Dominique asks the Board why it does not enforce MGL that requires that all DBA’s operating in Town be registered with the Town Clerk. He says that Billy Kie is operating several of his businesses illegally and that the Town is obligated to enforce the law. Kie should be fined according to the law. CW responds that the Board will look in to the matter and have an answer in a couple of weeks.
9:50 PM: ED makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 3-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_____________________ _____________________ _______________________
Lawrence Tonini, Chair Elizabeth DiGrigoli Curt Wilton
Date: ____________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
December 20, 2004
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: Lawrence Tonini (LT) and Curt Wilton (CW)
Also present: Administrative Assistant (AA). No press present.
BOS reviews and signs warrants
6:45 PM: LT opens a pole hearing for Verizon. Petitioner, Lori Robbins, is seeking to place 2 telephone poles to provide power and phone service to her property on Pixley Hill Road. LT reads the notice as provided by Verizon.
A field representative from Verizon explains the location and need for the poles. LT asks if there is any public comment.
CW informs the Verizon rep. that there is an abandoned partial pole in the Town’s right of way on West Center Road (pole # MECO 34) that has been causing problems with drainage. CW would like Verizon to remove the pole as soon as possible. Verizon rep. apologizes and agrees to have the obstructing pole removed.
There being no further public comment, CW makes a motion to approve the pole petition. LT seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor. LT closes the Public Hearing. Paperwork will be forwarded to the Town Clerk for execution and distribution.
7:00 PM: LT opens a Public Hearing to hear and act on a Special Permit application for a new restaurant. The petitioners are Danny May and Cathy Lugenza, owners of LaBruschetta. LT reads the public notice as published in the Berkshire Eagle. Danny May explains that he wishes to divide the present LaBruschetta retail wine and take out gourmet food business into 2 separate businesses. Danny May provides and reviews floor plans with the Board.
LT asks for public comment.
Martha Almgren asks if there is adequate parking and handicap accessibility for the new restaurant. Ms. Almgren notes that other applicants were held to strict standards for both parking and H.C. accessibility and this application should meet the same standards.
D. May shows where handicap access will be, including bathrooms. A discussion follows about parking. By-laws require 1 parking space per 100 sq. ft. of floor space. The new restaurant will be approximately 1,000 square feet and will seat no more than 28. Accordingly, 10 parking spaces must be provided. D. May shows that he either has space on his property or has agreements with adjacent properties that will provide at least 40 spaces. D. May explains that parking has never been a problem – even when the former restaurant was operating.
The Board agrees that the applicant meets parking and H.C. standards. LT asks if there is any additional public comment. There being none, CW makes a motion to approve the Special Permit to establish the restaurant to be known as Aardvark Wine Company, Inc. d/b/a Oeno located at Suite 1, 1 Harris Street. LT seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
7:15 PM: LT closes the public hearing.
7:15 PM: LT opens a public hearing to hear and act on an application to the Local Licensing Authority to change the licensed premises of LaBruschetta. Owners Danny May and Cathy Lugenza wish to reduce the size of the current retail wine and malt and take out food premises. Any change in the size and or scope of an existing alcoholic beverages licensed premises requires a public hearing. LT reads the public notice as it appeared in the Berkshire Eagle and notes that proof has been presented that abutters have been duly notified by certified mail.
In response to questions from CW, D. May reviews the new floor plan and explains that he wishes to operate 2 separate businesses, owned by 2 separate corporations. Alcoholic beverage licenses for each (restaurant and retail wine and malt) will be held by 2 different corporations and managers. D. May explains that, as prescribed in MGL, there will be a physical separation between the 2 licensed areas. Passage between the 2 sides of the building will require exiting and reentering from the outside. D. May offers that in his many years of holding an alcoholic beverage in Town he has never had any problems with either the Town or the Alcoholic Beverages Commission.
LT asks for public comment. None follows.
CW notes that D. May has done considerable research in preparing his applications and that everything seems to be in order. CW makes a motion to approve the Change in Licensed Premises. LT seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
7:45 PM: LT closes the public hearing.
7:45 PM: LT opens a public hearing to hear and act on an application from Aardvark Wine Company, Inc, d/b/a Oeno for an all-alcoholic beverages restaurant license for a new restaurant located at Suite 2, 1 Harris Street. LT reads the public notice as it appeared in the Berkshire Eagle and notes the evidence that abutters had been notified via certified mail. Board then reviews the application and floor plan.
CW asks if there are additional all-alcoholic restaurant licenses available in Town. AA responds that the Town is allowed 14 such licenses based on its population. There are 7 available licenses.
CW notes that the parking and H.C. access issues have already been addressed to the Board’s satisfaction.
LT asks if there is any public comment. None follows.
CW makes a motion to approve the application as presented. LT seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
All fees and paperwork are in order and AA will forward the alcoholic beverages license applications to the ABCC for their review. Upon written approval by the ABCC, the Board can then issue the licenses.
8:10 PM: LT closes the public hearing.
Other items: Board discusses scheduling the Annual Town Officer’s Appreciation Dinner. LT will speak to area restaurants capable of hosting the event. It is suggested that the dinner will be on a Monday evening at the end of January.
Jim Dominique, residence not provided, addresses the Board re: obtaining a junk car (Auto, Class III) license. He proposes to obtain the license in his wife’s name (Vivian Kie) whom he claims that he has power of attorney over. The location of the proposed operation is 10 West Center Road.
Mr. Dominique also asks for a copy of all current Town issued licenses held by Bill Kie of 10 West Center Road. AA will furnish copies to the Town Clerk. Mr. Dominique goes on to say that a check with the Town Clerk shows that none of Mr. Kie’s several businesses are registered with the Town as required by MGL. The Board is not aware of which local businesses are or are not registered but will investigate the matter.
LT asks Mr. Dominique to provide proof of his power of attorney and articles of incorporation. Mr. Dominique will provide them at a future meeting. LT notes that a public hearing would have to be scheduled and held if the Board is presented with the proper paperwork.
AA notes that he has reviewed the bid schedule with EDM for the new heating plant at the Village School. Bid documents will be ready on 1-14-05; pre-bid site conference will be held on 1-19-05; bid opening will be on 1-31-05 at 7:30 PM at Village School. Proper legal notices will appear in the Central Register and local newspaper. All bidders must be pre-qualified by the State (DCAM).
AA shows the Board a letter of appreciation received from Rob Putnam (BHRSD Plain School) thanking the Board for allowing the Plain School students to use the Village School on 2 recent occasions to hold holiday concerts.
AA asks the Board how it wishes to respond to recent letters from M/M Levin of West Alford Road concerning their driveway and the role of the Town. LT suggests that the Board needs to respond but should wait until the full Board is present to discuss the matter.
AA notes that he has been asked by BHRSD Superintendent Donna Moyer to serve on a State quality assurance committee for the District. AA agrees and will attend a few meetings in January.
Board will not meet next week because of the Holidays.
9:00 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by:
_________________________ ___________________________
Lawrence Tonini, Chairman Curt Wilton
Date: ___________
Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
December 6, 2004
6:30 PM: Open Meeting
Quorum present: ED, CW
BOS reviews and approves previous meeting minutes
BOS review and approves weekly warrants
7:00 PM: ED opens the Annual Tax Classification Hearing and reads the notice as previously posted in the Berkshire Eagle.
Assessor Irene Skorput recommends to the Selectmen to adopt a single tax rate. Irene explains that, as in previous years, there are not enough commercial properties in Town to justify a split tax rate (different commercial and residential tax rates).
The Selectmen concur and ED makes a motion to follow the Assessor’s recommendation to adopt a single rate for FY 2005. CW seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
7:10 PM: Tax Classification Hearing is closed.
Other items:
Irene Skorput asks that Building Inspector Jim Vosburgh be more vigilant in giving copies of Occupancy Permits to the Board of Assessors before they are given to property owners. She questions whether a C of O was issued to the Carlotta property next to the Village School. The Assessors have yet to be informed of its status by the Building Inspector. The owners are now obviously residing in the house.
There is a discussion about contacting a propane dealer to have a gas tank installed and filled at the Village School so that the kitchen stove can be used. AA will contact vendors.
Following a discussion about Charter Communications obligation to forward a check for Local Access TV technical equipment per the new cable TV license extension. AA will contact Dick Elwell at Charter.
Steve Cabral drops off a copy of State CMR regulations that specifically call for fencing around all residential in-ground pools. He states that the Building Inspector has given out contrary information in the past about pool fencing requirements.
AA to switch work days this week from Wednesday to Thursday to be available to Jim Podolak (DOR) who will be in Town this Thursday to assist in setting the FY 2005 tax rate.
8:00 PM: There being no further business to discuss, CW makes a motion to adjourn the meeting. ED seconds the motion. Vote taken, 2-0 in favor.
Minutes approved by: