Selectmen’s Meeting Minutes

February 9, 2004

The Board of Selectmen met this evening at the Easton Town Offices, Selectmen’s Office with Clerk Jeffrey Tufts presiding. Also in attendance were John Haederle, Colleen Corona and Town Administrator Martha White. Gerard Marsan and Carla Goodwin were not present. 7:00pm.

Minutes

On Corona’s motion, seconded by Haederle, the board voted unanimously to accept General Minutes dated 1/12/04.

On Haederle’s motion, seconded by Tufts, the board voted 2-0-1 to approve Executive Session Minutes dated 12/1/03. Corona abstained.

On Corona’s motion, seconded by Haederle, the board voted unanimously to approve Executive Session Minutes dated 12/15/03.

On Corona’s motion, seconded by Tufts, the board voted unanimously to approve Executive Session Minutes dated 1/12/04.

Release of Executive Session Minutes

On Corona’s motion, seconded by Haederle, the board voted unanimously to release Executive Session Minutes dated 12/15/03 & 1/12/04.

Affirmation of Vote re: Sale of Former North Easton Grammar (NEG) School

Tufts affirmed the board’s action at their meeting on 2/2/04 regarding the sale of NEG. See attached project update announcement. Tufts specifically spoke of the agreed sale price of $120,000 in exchange for the purchasers taking full responsibility for the building immediately, prior to taking ownership late March. The sale price was reduced due to vandalism issues and extensive water damage as a result of a recent cold spell. Haederle referred to the agreement as a positive development for the town. The sale of the building reduces the town’s risk and eliminates the expense of heat costs and insurance premiums.

Public Participation

None

Discussion re: Stormwater Management Program

DPW Director Wayne Southworth was present. Southworth gave a presentation to the board on the Stormwater Management Program. See attached information. The town is required by the Federal government to put together a 5-year plan. The entire plan is based on public education and municipal bylaw enforcement. Southworth spoke of the training curriculum with students. Easton schools, Stonehill College and the Natural Resources Trust are also involved with educational training. Southworth spoke of his staff and their involvement with the training. A bylaw change is being proposed by the Planning Board. Southworth explained the process. White noted that the information noted in the brochure will be put on the town’s website also. The board thanked Southworth for his information.

Class II Hearing I.F.S. Inc.- John L. Tirrell – 21 Hampden Drive Unit #10

Tufts noted the fact that he cannot participate in Class II hearings. Tufts indicated that the board could not go forward with the hearing due to lack of quorum. The hearing was opened at 7:15pm.

On Corona’s motion, seconded by Haederle, the board voted unanimously to continue the hearing to 2/23 at 7:15pm at the Easton Junior High School Auditorium.

Pole Petition - #145-1 - Foundry Street (between 501 – 503)

Tufts read the notice of hearing. Ms. Joanne Robidoux, Right of Way Manager was present and spoke of the pole placement for the new plaza across the street.

There were no members of the audience speaking in favor or opposing the pole petition.

On Corona’s motion, seconded by Haederle, the board voted unanimously to approve the pole location

145-1 as submitted.

Recreation Commission Appointment

On Haederle’s motion, seconded by Corona, the board voted unanimously by roll call to appoint Matthew Campbell to the Recreation Commission for the term expiring 6/30/05. Campbell will fill the unexpired term of Michael Carey. Corona yes, Tufts yes, Haederle yes.

Approval of Contract to Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc.

White spoke of the contract. Counsel had proposed changes, which were incorporated into the new contract. Planning Board is authorizing some of their funds for this project. Corona asked about the limits of liability that Marsan brought up at the previous meeting. White noted that this issue has been corrected by counsel.

On Haederle’s motion, seconded by Corona, the board voted unanimously to approve the contract as submitted (proposal#8216203).

FY’05 Budget Discussion

White updated the board on the status of Financial Management Principles. They were amended per Goodwin’s request and the Finance Committee voted to endorse the document as amended. The School Superintendent will have the School Committee review it also. White referred to the upcoming budget subcommittee meeting that the fact that Goodwin cannot attend. Tufts agreed to sit in her place as he has been on the committee in the past. The board agreed.

Press Notes

None

Selectmen’s Notes

Corona researched Self Help’s request for the request for representative from Easton, Mansfield and Norton to serve on the Board of Directors. Corona submitted information to the board and noted the one-year term, specifically noting the meetings are held monthly on Monday evenings. The board discussed the possibility of a citizen coming forward and checking with Norton and Sharon on their status with hopes of coming up with a joint representative.

Town Administrator’s Notes

White noted the Brockton Family and Community Resource Center Mardi Gras Ball on 2/28, honoring Denise Papagno of the Easton Police Department in her efforts to help with domestic violence issues. White extended the invitation to the board and will email the information to the other members.

On Haederle’s motion, seconded by Corona, the board voted unanimously to adjourn at 7:30pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary McCarthy

____________________________________

Approved

____________________________________

Date