Selectmen’s Meeting Minutes
February 2, 2004
The Board of Selectmen met this evening at the Easton Town
Offices, Selectmen’s Office with Chairman Gerard Marsan
presiding. Also in attendance were, John
Haederle, Carla Goodwin, Colleen Corona and Town Administrator
Martha White. (6:35pm) Jeffrey Tufts was not present.
The board convened Open Session at 6:35pm.
On Goodwin’s motion, seconded by Haederle, the board voted
unanimously to go into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing
property and labor negotiations. (6:35pm).
The board reconvened Open Session at 7:15pm.
Minutes
On Goodwin’s motion, seconded by Marsan, the board voted
3-0-1 to approve General Minutes
dated 12/1/03 as
amended. Corona abstained.
On Goodwin’s motion, seconded by Haederle, the board voted
unanimously to approve General Minutes dated 12/15/03.
On Marsan’s motion, seconded by Goodwin, the board voted
unanimously to approve General Minutes dated 12/29/03 as amended.
On Goodwin’s motion, seconded by Marsan, the board voted
unanimously to table Executive Session Minutes dated 12/1/03 & 12/15/03.
On Marsan’s motion, seconded by Corona,
the board voted unanimously by roll call to adjourn Open Session and act
as Water Commissioners for the purpose of holding a hearing. Marsan yes, Corona yes, Goodwin yes,
Haederle yes.
Water Commissioner Hearing Request – Diane Howard
Ms. Diane Howard and
Mr. Richard Urenas of 14 Eishenhower Drive were present. Water Superintendent Jack Marsh and DPW
Director Wayne Southworth were also present.
Howard submitted information for the board’s review. She noted the letters sent to the town. Marsan acknowledged the letters which Howard
referred to. Howard specifically noted a
letter dated 11/29/02 letter to Southworth. Howard referred to the meter readings and the
gallons used. Howard reiterated her
claim that the newly installed meter confirms that the old meter was
faulty. Howard is requesting a refund
for the money overpaid. Howard
indicated that Water Department came out and took out and then replaced with a
new one. Howard claimed that the meter
technician acknowledged the needle gauge “jumping”. From that point on, Howard did not feel that
there was a problem with the water usage.
Howard spoke of the construction period while Developer Doug King’s Queset
on the Pond was being built and how the construction could have affected her
meter. Corona questioned water usage and the higher amount
in the summer vs. winter. Howard
explained the dry summer and the the realistic water usage would be. Haederle asked Marsh if the Water Department
verified the numbers. Marsh indicated
that the Water Department confirmed the numbers. Howard noted that the bills have all been
paid. At this point of the meeting,
Marsan asked Marsh to respond to questions that have been raised by Howard and
the board. Marsh gave history of the
case and noted that on 10/1/02 the meter was read; on 10/9/02 the computer flagged it as a high
reading. It was read again on 10/9/02 and was still extremely high. A standard letter was generated and sent out
to Howard indicating a possible problem.
A new bill was sent out reflecting the water use in question. A few
weeks later, Ms. Howard stopped by the Water Department and asked them to come
down and check for leaks. On or about 10/15/02 Howard requested the department come out and
check for leaks. Howard’s first
available date was 11/15/02. The
department did check for leaks and found none.
The meter was read again and the new reading verified the usage was cut
in ½ but still a little higher than average.
Marsh indicated that they did remove the meter for testing at her request
and the results to the test came back fine.
Howard requested an independent company to test the meter at her expense
and the test came back satisfactory also.
Marsh referred to Howard’s comment on the meter dial jumping and
explained that it was not the case.
After the testing, Howard wrote a letter to Badger Meter and they
responded to her. Marsh noted that in
his 25 years servicing the Water Department, he has not seen a meter run
fast. Marsh acknowledged that this does
seem higher than average, but he honestly feels that the water went through the
meter and the meter had not malfunctioned.
Marsan asked about the water meter replacement. Marsh explained that the new meter was put in
because the other was sent out for testing.
The original meter was not put back in the home. Marsh noted that they pulled it out as apart
of the regular servicing program.
Goodwin asked about a meter moving forward and the fact that it will not
move forward without water flow. Marsh
confirmed that this is accurate and referred to Badger Meter’s report. At this point, Howard again referred to the
technician’s reaction to the needle jumping.
Howard stated that the town volunteered to take the meter out and she
did not ask to have it taken out. Howard
again spoke of the increase in water consumption and felt that the numbers
cannot be disputed. Marsan explained
that Badger Meter and the Water Department acknowledged that the meters are
pretty accurate. Southworth noted that
the records are consistent for fall/winter patterns and during these times, water
consumption is less. He noted summer
months and the discrepancies. He
spoke of the standard policy of sending out a “high bill letter” to try to
resolve issues before the actual bills go out.
He noted that most often it is the case it is a leaky toilet. In the summer months, you may not realize how
much water you are actually using. Southworth
concurred with Marsh and believes that the water did go through the meter. Corona asked about that particular summer of
1999. Southworth confirmed that 1999 was
one of the driest summers. Howard spoke
of nine years of water usage and expressed frustration with the usage going
down after the meter was changed.
On Goodwin’s motion,
seconded by Haederle, the board voted unanimously to take the matter under advisement and to
continue the discussion to a future date.
Ms. Howard will be notified when the board continues the
discussion.
On Goodwin’s motion,
seconded by Corona, the board voted unanimously by roll call to reconvene as Selectmen. ( 7:55pm)
Public Participation
John Rizzo of 12 Lothrop Street spoke of the Howard water hearing and suggested
that the alleged water usage is unrealistic.
Adjudicatory Hearing - Highway Package Store – 669 Washington
Street
Town Counsel Joan
Langsam, Attorney John Creedon, Acting Police Chief Tom Kominsky, Officer Pat
Brophy, Officer Jeffrey Fuller, Highway Package Store Owner Mr. Joseph Correia, Highway Package Store Clerk Danielle Goldsmith,
Highway Package Store Clerk Tom Skinner and Stonehill
Police Officer James Smith were present.
Marsan read the
notice of hearing as indicated in the packet.
Haederle spoke of
possible conflict of interest and counsel’s ruling of no conflict. Creedon indicated no problem with Haederle’s
participation.
Langsam noted the
reason for the hearing this evening for violation of state and local liquor
laws, sale to minor, pertaining to Highway Package Store. Langsam referred to the original notice of
hearing and the letter to Creedon indicating
the hearing date of 1/26/04; letter dated 12/1/03 from Creedon to the Selectmen
re: his representation of Mr. Correia and a continuance
request; A letter dated 11/10/03 to
Correia notifying him of the hearing sale to minors, etc.; Copy of MGL Ch. 138 §34; incident reports
dated 7/15/03 and another report 11/4/03; a letter to the Easton Police
Department (EPD) dated 10/30/03 from Jeffrey Bonci, a further report 11/17/03
by Officer James Smith, Stonehill Police Dept; a copy of a VT drivers license,
and a guide to the Massachusetts Liquor Laws, pages 10,11, 12.
Officer Brophy was
called as a witness to the alleged violation, sale to a minor. Brophy stated his full name for the record
and verified his employment with the Town of Easton as a Police Officer and the fact that he is
the author of the incident report concerning the alleged sale to minor. Langsam asked him to summarize. Brophy noted that he was dispatched to 41 Pinebrook Lane after a call from a mother dealing with an incident
with her son. The woman found her minor
son hiding a wine bottle behind trees. At
that point, she then called the EPD.
Brophy spoke to the juvenile who acknowledged that he purchase the wine
from the shelf of Highway Package Store.
Brophy asked if he used a fake ID and he
responded that he did not. He had no
ID. Brophy then indicated to the minor that he
would view the surveillance tapes and he would hope not to see that he used a
fake id. The minor indicated that he used
cash to purchase the wine. Brophy
confirmed that he asked the juvenile his age.
He confirmed that he was 16, not 21.
The mother confirmed his age also.
Langsam asked what Brophy did after he
confirmed the juvenile’s age. Brophy noted he ask for a description of the gentlemen that
served him. The minor indicated that the
male clerk was wearing a baseball cap and a dark shirt. Brophy then took the bottle of wine and brought
it to the store where he bought it.
Brophy went to the store and explained the situation to the clerk,
Joseph Correia. Langsam asked about the
store and if anyone else was there.
Brophy explained. Langsam asked Brophy
if he spoke with juvenile about coming to the hearing this evening. Brophy replied no. Brophy indicated that the Acting Police Chief
may have discussed this and there may have been a conversation. Langsam asked if the minor showed showed a
fake ID. Brophy noted that he never came
forward with a license. He was very
clear that he did not show a license.
Creedon asked Brophy if the matter had gone to court. Brophy stated yes and there was a problem
with the minor identifying the person who sold the wine. Brophy noted he was not the court officer of
that case. Creedon noted that the matter
went to court and the juvenile had a description and then misidentified the
person in court who sold him the wine.
Officer Fuller was present at court that day and witnessed the
identification. Corona asked if Highway Package Store actually had
a surveillance tape. Brophy was not sure
but used this as a way to try to get the minor to give him the fake ID if he in
fact had one. Corona asked about a price sticker labeling Highway
Package on the bottle. At this point, Langsam
called Stonehill College Police Officer James Smith
to the stand to speak of the second alleged violation which took place in
November relative to students at Stonehill College.
Marsan noted that Creedon was noticed of incidents, the one in July and
the one in November. Langsam explained
the process. Creedon questioned whether
one would take precedent over the other.
Langsam noted that they both apply, showing the management of the
package store. Langsam asked Smith to
state his name for the record. Smith
stated his name and title. Langsam asked
if he was the author of the report.
Smith replied yes. On the date of
11/4/03 at 9:10pm, while on routine patrol, he notice three suspicious
looking students in the parking lot transporting empty brown bags. The students entered a vehicle and headed south
to to Rt.138 toward some liquor stores. They passed Hennessey Package Store and the
vehicle was parked in front of the Highway Package Store at 669 Washington Street. Upon
his arrival at Highway Package Store, Smith indicated that one man was carrying
a bag with a 30 pack of beer. They proceeded
to Stonehill College, specifically the “dry parking lot”. No alcohol is allowed at that location. He walked over to the car and asked if they were
21 years of age. They all indicated that
they were not 21 years of age. He told
them that he witnessed them purchasing alcohol.
He witnesses a thirty pack of beer and a bottle of vodka. He asked one of the students, Mr. Bonci, for his license. Bonci replied that he
was not 21year of age. He noted that he
went to the liquor store and used a license to purchase the beer and vodka from
the female clerk. After much discussion
and assistance from another Stonehill Police
employee, Sgt. Best, a counterfeit VT license was given. Smith noted that it was not even a match to a
real VT license. The back of the card
was actually an Old Navy gift card. It appeared to be flimsy and unrealistic in
Smith’s opinion. Langsam asked if the VT
license had a date of birth showing 21 years of age. Langsam asked Smith for confirmation on what
types of ID’s are legitimate for proof of ID.
Smith noted that only MA licenses are accepted, no out of state license
can pass as a valid form of ID. Langsam
had no other questions at this time. Creedon asked Smith about his work and
patrol. He asked if this was an approved
investigation. Smith explained the
report and indicated that there was no violation that he did anything out of
the ordinary. He did not need approval
to leave campus. Creedon asked about the
night in question and if there was confusion about Bonci’s license. He referred to the license showing 21 years
of age. Creedon asked if he placed him
under arrest. Smith acknowledged that he
did not take that action. Smith
acknowledged what his rights as an officer are.
Creedon noted that Smith did not get to go through the wallet to look at
other license, etc. Smith agreed that he
did not check the wallet. Creedon asked
about the condition of the license. Smith
acknowledged that the license was beat up.
Creedon asked if he felt that the license should have been questioned
and if he had arrested minors for buying alcohol. Creedon asked if
he had ever been taught in academy to bring the minor back to the store to
prove the sale to the minors. Smith acknowledged
that he did not. Creedon noted that Mr.
Bonci contradicted himself on how he bought the liquor. Smith noted that he did not deny that he
bought the liquor but was not clear on the license. Creedon asked Smith if he went to court. Smith indicated no. Creedon spoke of the first alleged sale to
the minor and asked if he knew the outcome of the court appearance and the
purpose of identifying the clerk who allegedly sold the wine. Smith noted that through a coworker, he was
aware that EPD may have been interested in the information. Smith noted that this investigation was not
at the store. He noted Stonehill’s
policy to deal with situations within their jurisdiction, etc. Creedon asked Smith to explain a Jr. license
vs. a valid license to purchase liquor.
Smith explained the Jr. license requirement. Langsam objected to this question at this
time. Creedon
noted the condition of the VT license and asked Smith if it were possible that someone
may not have realized the license was invalid.
Smith spoke of the fact that if the clerk was on the ball, they would
have realized. Langsam asked Smith if Bonci was asked if he had other id’s. Smith noted that he did not produce any other
license other than the VT one. Langsam
asked Smith if he saw Bonci leave the Highway Package Store. Smith stated yes. Creedon asked
about consequences, sanctions, for Bonci.
Smith was not sure what happened.
Creedon asked if the minor’s parents were notified. Smith was not sure.
Corona asked if the EPD followed up on this
incident. Smith noted that he spoke with
the EPD Sgt. Ferretti and Officer Brophy. Marsan asked Smith about the incident and how
much time had passed before he pulled in behind the minors at Highway Package
Store. Smith replied about one or two
minutes. Marsan asked how long they were
in the store. Smith explained that within
4-5 minutes they were at the store and had purchased the liquor. Creedon asked if the Stonehill
students would have been followed if they went to W. Bridgewater.
Smith replied no. Creedon
introduced clerk Danielle Goldsmith to the witness stand. Goldsmith introduced herself and noted that
she lives in Bridgewater. She noted that she worked for Correia in November 2003.
She was not working alone that evening, Mr. Correia was there. Creedon noted that there has been testimony
that she accepted the VT license as a valid form of ID. He asked her to explain the procedure for carding
individuals at Highway Package Store.
She explained that only MA licenses are accepted. Creedon referred to
the Bonci’s testimony of the 19-20 year old who gave the license and if she had
ever accepted a VT license. Goldsmith was
not familiar with that issue and noted that Mr. Correia is at the store at all
times. Creedon asked if the EPD had come
in to investigate the July incident. She
indicated that they had not. Creedon
asked if the EPD investigated the Stonehill College student incident from November. Goldsmith was not sure and indicated that she
has never taken anything other than a MA license as a valid form of ID. Langsam asked what hours Goldsmith worked
that day. She indicated that she worked 5-10pm each Friday for about 9 months. Langsam asked her age. Goldsmith noted 22. Langsam asked about the training received when
she started working. Goldsmith indicated
that Correia did give her training specifically on only accepting MA licenses,
especially if they look under 26. Correia
observed Goldsmith the first night of work.
Langsam asked what would happen if someone looked over 26. Goldsmith noted that she would let them buy.
Langsam asked if she was aware that she could take military ID or
passport. Goldsmith was not aware. Langsam asked her duties. She noted the cash register and stocking
inventory. Langsam
asked her duties that night and if she left the premises at all during her
shift. She noted that she was unaware of
leaving that night. Langsam showed
Goldsmith the VT license. Goldsmith noted
that she has never seen the ID and does not recognize the picture. Creedon asked about her wages. She noted an hourly wage, no commission for
sales. Langsam asked if she would
remember someone coming in that night buying a 30 pack of beer and a bottle of
vodka. She did not remember. Langsam
asked how many people come into the store on an average night. She guessed at approximately 30 but noted
that the flow is not consistent. Langsam
asked if they get a lot of Stonehill students. She replied yes. Langsam asked
how she knew. Goldsmith acknowledged
that she has conversations with them.
Marsan asked if she always works with Correia during her shifts. Goldsmith noted that sometimes she works with
others. Marsan asked about this
particular night if it was just Correia and she. She was not sure but would guess that. Marsan asked if Correia stepped out for dinner,
could she have been alone. Goldsmith replied
yes. Marsan asked about her ID training
and the MA license. She explained. Marsan asked if there have been incidents
where other ID’s were shown and if she questioned the owner. Goldsmith remembers one incident and it was a
MA ID. She did not believe that she took the ID or sold the alcohol. Goodwin asked if there are signs posted only
taking MA license. Goldsmith replied yes. Goodwin asked about other students if they
try to use other forms. Goldsmith
replied yes. Goodwin asked about a
standard response. She explained that
they do not accept the other forms of ID and apologize that they cannot accept it. Haederle asked for clarification on the ID
Bonci used and if she remembered seeing him.
The board viewed the picture at this point of the meeting. Haederle asked Smith when he stopped Bonci and what he was carrying. Smith noted that when he exited the store, he
was carrying the 30 pack of beer and a paper bag with the vodka. When he exited the vehicle at Stonehill, he
had nothing in his hands at all. The
other minors had it. Haederle asked if
there was a receipt in the bag. Smith was not aware of a receipt. Goodwin asked about the look of the price
tags on the Highway Package Store liquor.
Goldsmith indicated orange. Smith
did not remember the price tags. At this
point, Creedon asked Correia to identify himself and his occupation. Correia introduced himself and referred to
his business, Highway Package Store, a family owned business for over 50 years
and over 31 years without violations.
Creedon asked about the day in question if he recalled seeing Bonci and if he ever saw the license. Correia had never seen the individual or the
license. Creedon asked about the
location of the store and the proximity to Stonehill College.
Correia noted that the students try to buy. The signs are posted re: ID’s and if they
have an alcohol card, they need two other forms of ID. These are not seen often. Correia is aware of the military ID and the
passport but noted he rarely sees these as forms of ID. He takes nothing other than a MA ID. Creedon asked about the Jr. ID and if he
accepts it. Correia indicated no. Creedon asked if EPD or Stonehill asked
whether or not he sold to this person on this date. Correia indicated no. Langsam asked about training and what it
consists of. Correia explained his
policy of checking ID’s. Correia
indicated that he asks them to card everyone that looks 30 or under. Langsam noted that this information indicated
something different than what Goldsmith previously implied.
Creedon called another witness, Highway Package
Store Clerk Tom Skinner.
Skinner introduced
himself and noted that he has over 30 years of employment in this type of
business. Creedon specifically asked about carding college kids and
what ID is acceptable. Skinner indicated
that MA licenses are accepted only, others are not accepted. Signage is posted on the doors when you come
in. Creedon asked about his experience with
minors and if there is more than one ID in their wallet. Skinner acknowledged that you could find more
than two ID’s for one person. Corona asked if he was working that night. Skinner indicated that he was not working that
evening. Corona asked if Goldsmith could have been there
alone that night. Skinner replied yes. Marsan asked about his experience. Skinner explained his experience as a bartender
and the criteria used for the ID check. Marsan
asked if he ever accepted anything other than a MA license. Skinner replied no.
Creedon noted the
two allegations in front of the board this evening. Creedon suggested it is very rare or unusual
that the minors are not present to testify.
Creedon also noted for the record that Mr. Correia’s family has been at
that location for years and these two things happened over a period of
months. He noted that the first case
went to court and the minor could not identify the individual. Creedon did not feel that based on that
information, any of the allegations were credible. Creedon is asking that the board find no
violations on the sale to minor. Creedon
spoke of the second violation and Officer Smith’s testimony. Creedon noted that Mr. Bonci was not here this evening to testify
under oath and Officer Smith admitted that no sales clerk would take the out of
state ID if they were on the ball.
Creedon indicated that he doesn’t deny that Bonci bought the alcohol but
questions what ID was shown. Experience
shows that all the kids have multiple ID’s.
Creedon felt that this is all “hear say” and nobody saw this
purchase. Both key witnesses were not
present and the ID’s may or may not have been shown. Creedon did not see management flaws and
suggested that Correia’s record speaks for itself. Correia asked that based on lack of
substantial or reasonable proof that the board find Mr. Correia
not in violation on either case. Langsam
disagreed and noted that it is not unreasonable for the minors to come and
testify; sometimes it is their parents. Langsam
disagreed with Creedon’s philosophy and noted that it is unusual that the minor
come in and testimony. Langsam spoke of
the police officers and the fact that they really have no interest either way
and are here to serve the community.
Langsam spoke of the ABCC and how they allow “hear say”.
Langsam suggested that on the first case, Officer Brophy visited the 16
year old and took testimony and the mother was present. Langsam suggested that on the second case,
the individual most likely looked 21, but appeared that the law was not clearly
explained to Goldsmith and she may have been left alone at the store during the
time that the sale took place. Langsam
expressed concern with the type of management at Highway Package Store. Langsam referred to
the first allegation and noted that the juvenile may not have looked closely at
the manager at the time he purchased the wine.
The clerk had a hat on at the time of purchase and may have looked
different than at the court appearance.
Langsam spoke of second incident and the fact that Goldsmith stated that
unless the purchases looked 26, they would not have checked for the ID. She may not have looked closely. After talking to Smith, Bonci
admitted the fake ID and acknowledged that he did have a MA license also. Langsam noted that we must give credence and
credibility of the officers involved.
Langsam felt that there were most likely violations here and the staff
may not have been trained as thoroughly as they should have been. Marsan asked if Langsam could state what the
standard should be in finding a violation.
Langsam noted that if the board finds substantial evidence, giving
weight to witnesses, you would want to give some consideration to this being a
first time offense and the fact that you would want to send a message. A letter of reprimand or suspension of 5 days
could be suggested as a reasonable course of action for the board. Creedon noted the City of Brockton’s policy and the EPD and suggested that the
EPD follow through with these issues and in the future, have the witnesses come
to hearings. Goodwin asked what the law
says when the owner shows fake id then shows the out of state, etc. It was noted that only a VT license was
shown.
Haederle asked about
the first incident and why the board is hearing the case if it was thrown out
of court.
Officer Fuller spoke
of the court incident and the minor picked out the wrong person out of the
group. Langsam
asked about attire of the pool of people to choose from the day of the hearing. Fuller noted that the pool of people were not
allowed to wear hats in the courtroom that day and the difficulty of picking
out the defendant if they were not familiar with seeing that person without a hat. Haederle spoke of the second incident and the
issue of ID. Haederle felt a revocation would
be strong, given the evidence this evening.
Marsan noted the difficulty on these matters. Marsan noted that the board would need to
decide if substantial evidence has been provided. Marsan spoke of the EPD and the
circumstances on how these incidents occurred.
Marsan noted the difficulty and the gaps here. Marsan feels that the gaps are critical. Marsan feels lack of evidence is the issues
her, not lack of diligence.
On Goodwin’s motion,
seconded by Haederle, the board voted unanimously to dismiss allegation #1 – sale to minor,
finding no violations.
On Goodwin’s motion,
seconded by Haederle, the board voted
3-1 to dismiss allegation #2, sale to minor allowing out of state id due,
finding no violation. Corona opposed.
Goodwin asked
Correia to mandate more effective training on annual or semi-annual basis as a
condition on the license. The hearing
adjourned at 9:30pm.
The board took a brief recess and reconvened at 9:45pm.
Update re: Class
II License Renewal for A&K Auto Sales, Inc.
Marsan noted that the outstanding issue relating to workers
compensation is resolved. No action is
necessary. White noted the staff time
involved when dealing with license requirements.
Temporary Sign Permit/Fee Waiver
Request – Lions Club
On Corona’s motion, seconded by Haederle, the
board voted unanimously to approve the temporary sign/fee waiver request
for the annual auction in accordance with the board’s temporary sign
policy.
Temporary Sign Permit/Fee Waiver Request – Easton
Women of Today
On Corona’s motion, seconded by Haederle, the board voted
unanimously to approve the temporary sign/fee waiver request for the annual
skating day in accordance with the board’s temporary sign policy.
Discuss Proposed Amendment to Temporary Sign Policy
The board discussed
the attached draft amended temporary sign policy.
On Goodwin’s motion,
seconded by Corona, the board voted unanimously to adopt the amended temporary sign policy
to be effective immediately.
Award of Contract for Kennel Services & Facilities
White referred to
the proposed contract to the low bidder J.M. KJ-9 Trainer of Brockton.
On Haederle’s motion,
seconded by Corona, the board voted unanimously to approve the contract to J.M. K-9 Training
of Brockton as recommended by the Town Administrator, Acting Police Chief and
the Animal Control Officer.
Ambulance Bill Abatement Requests
Two abatement
requests were reviewed by the board.
On Goodwin’s motion,
seconded by Haederle, the board voted unanimously to approve the two abatements requests as
submitted by the Fire Chief for a total amount of $1,019.35.
FY’05 Budget
White referred to the attached memo dated 1/28/04.
Financial Management Principles
- White spoke of the Financial Management Principles and the hope of having
the board adopt this as one of their policies.
Goodwin asked for clarification of implementation of principles. Goodwin noted that this is part of the
Selectmen’s handbook to coordinate efforts with Finance Committee, etc. White will re-word the proposal for the
board’s review.
Goodwin spoke of the principles and noted that this is the
first time that they have been memorialized in and outline of this type. White was complimented for her work.
Preliminary Revenue Projections
– White spoke of the Governor’s budget and noted the anticipated changes. We are looking at a $1.3 million increase in
revenue and more on the expenditure side, i.e. pension and health insurance
increases. Goodwin asked about money the
town will get as reimbursement for the storm.
White indicated that the DPW Director attended the meeting next week and
we will be seeking the maximum amount.
Operationally Effective
Budgets – White explained what she
will be asking the department heads for to provide an adequate department. White feels that this is crucial to
demonstrate the need at the annual town meeting.
White spoke of the
need to coordinate another budget subcommittee meeting noting that the date of
2/13 conflicts with Goodwin’s schedule.
Marsan noted the difficulty of having another Selectmen step in for one
meeting without full knowledge of the subsequent subcommittee meetings. Marsan confirmed his presence if the meeting
is held on February 13th as proposed.
Discussion re: Charter Changes
Marsan spoke of the
charter changes.
HRB Board – Change
in Personnel Bylaw - White noted that the charter change approved at the last
STM has been sent to the Attorney General’s Office. It has been sent in a timely manner. White will be sending a memo out to all
departments outlining the procedure for changing charters. Marsan spoke of the language needed to
submit to the Town Clerk at least 35 days prior to the election. This will be reviewed at the Selectmen’s
Meeting on 2/23. White noted that a copy
will need to be mailed to every household.
The Town Clerk is looking into process and cost.
Residency
Requirement Charter Change – White noted the flawed procedure done in the past. White spoke of the possible remedies to fix
the problem. Marsan suggested that
this be discussed also on 2/23. Haederle
asked why Town Counsel did not find this issue last spring when the change was
approved. White referred to memos from
Town Counsel and explained the confusion and noted that there is some amount of
debate between municipal attorneys and state officials. Corona asked for an upcoming agenda item to discuss
various issues with Town Counsel. The
board discussed the process which would take place to have them come in. Corona has some concerns with our current
counsel. Marsan noted that he and
Haederle were going to meet with Counsel over various issues and schedules have
not allowed the meeting to take place.
Haederle would like a clear idea on what will come out of the meeting with
Town Counsel. Marsan agreed that the
board should decide now what we want to do and how to do it. Haederle spoke of the performance related
issues and the possibility that it may be discussed in Executive Session. Goodwin agreed that we need to have a
specific discussion discussing what types of materials which will need to be
discussed. Corona felt that these are big issues.
The board proposed
March 22nd as the date to hold the discussion with hopes of Brackett
& Lucas being present. White will
solicit any issues from other departments.
Recreation Commission Member Resignation – Steve Torrey
Marsan referred to
Torrey’s resignation.
On Marsan’s motion,
seconded by Corona, the board voted unanimously to accept with regret Torrey’s resignation
and send a certificate of appreciation.
Request from Self Help Inc., for Participation on Board of Directors
White referred to
the attached request from Self Help. Self
Help needs one representative to serve for Easton, Sharon and Mansfield.
White questioned if the board wanted to serve or know of someone. They
do not need to be a public official to serve.
Marsan suggested an article can be put in the newspaper. The Enterprise correspondent is willing to put a story in
the paper. Corona will look into what the commitments would be.
Approval of Contract with VHB Engineering for 5-Corners Master Plan
White noted that
counsel will be making amendments and will be modified for the board’s review
next Monday 2/9/04.
The board asked about paragraphs 13 and 14. White will check with counsel.
Town Administrator’s Notes
None
Press Notes
None
Selectmen’s Notes
Marsan announced that DPW Employee Kenneth Martin will be retiring
after 34 years of service as a laborer of the DPW. The Board extended well wishes.
Marsan announced an upcoming event to be held at the Covenant
Congregational Church on 2/11 at 7:30pm. An evening is designated to discussing men’s
commitments to resolve domestic violence against women.
Goodwin reminded White about the joint collaboration with
Norton & Mansfield involving the Town Administrators. White suggested working with them after the budget
season, sometime in June. Haederle agreed
to represent the Selectmen in this regard.
On Corona’s motion, seconded by Haederle, the board voted
unanimously to adjourn at 10:40pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary McCarthy
_________________________________________
Approved
_________________________________________
Date