SELECTMEN’S MEETING MINUTES

AUGUST 10, 1998

The Board of Selectmen met this evening with Clerk Patricia Webster presiding. Frederick Clark, and Jeffrey Tufts were also in attendance. William Hardin and Carla Goodwin were absent.

MEETING WITH CABLE ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND SPECIAL COUNSEL RE: RELICENSING AGREEMENT

The following people were in attendance for the discusion:

Special Counsel William August; John McMorrow; Dave Brown; Lou Aries; Media One Representative Nancy Leonardo; School Committee Representative Chris Margulies.

Copies of the most current cable contract were distributed to the Selectmen prior to the meeting. It was noted that the Selectmen would need to review the proposed contract before making any decisions this evening. Attorney August gave an overview of the contract. The bottom line finding was that the existing cable studio is pretty good and does not need radical changes. The goal is to continue the studio as it exists without causing a change in rates. Other needs noted were educational and governmental technology and improvement to the senior citizen discount. August noted that the license calls for a 3 person committee. It was suggested that the Town Administrator, a Selectmen designee and a School Superintendent designee be assigned the task.

One of the most sensitive issues of the cable contract is the senior citizen discount. August suggested that we check to see if we can phase other things into the contract regarding rates. Some fine tuning could be done. He suggested no annual payment at first then phase in the 2%. August noted that once competition exists, we could be able to negotiate different kinds of contract in the future. There was much discussion regarding the I-Net. It was noted that the Easton Police Department is participating in early cable modem service. August recommended that the Town review the license on an annual basis, taking into consideration public concerns. Chris Marguilies spoke on behalf of the School Department. She noted that the cable modems were being placed in the schools free of charge. Modems would also tie the Town and schools together. The school department wants to move on this issue as quickly as possible. Clark asked the status of the I-Net. McMorrow stated that it was his understanding that all public buildings were complete. August noted that the Police, Fire, Schools, Town Offices, DPW, Ames Library and Stonehill College are to be connected. Clark asked what locations were still outstanding and also if the pumping stations would be connected. McMorrow noted that he had a map showing the locations that were connected. Webster expressed concern that not all senior citizens were getting a discount and stated that seniors in the community should receive the same discount as those in subsidized housing as most are living on a fixed income as well. August suggested that he could look into the matter further. He further advised that the Town of Millis uses the same criteria for senior tax credits for discounts on cable bills.

Mr. John Kent spoke about the MMA Regional Study Group. He stated that the senior discount is a great concern, specifically that subsidized housing residents receive a discount but not the homeowners. Webster asked if the committee would still be asking for money in the budget. McMorrow stated yes.

In conclusion, the following was agreed to: The Cable Advisory Committee would provide the Selectmen with a map of the eyenet connections in the network; The Board of Selectmen would meet in September with the Cable Committee to discuss the contract further; The senior discount would be looked at more closely.

RODMAN RIDE FOR KIDS FEE WAIVER

On Tufts’ motion, seconded by Clark, the Board voted unanimously to approve the request for fee waiver and the $100.00 deposit.

Emergency Condition Item

On Clark’s motion, seconded by Webster, the Board voted unanimously to take up a street sweeper request for a function on 8/30 as an emergency item.

On Clark’s motion, seconded by Webster, the Board voted unanimously to approve the request for a street sweeper for the Al Belmonte Scholarship Fundraiser to be held at the 138 Motel on 8/30/98.

Selectmen’s Notes

Clark noted that the Mechanic Street no parking signs have not been completed yet. He further noted that material involved with the Main Street construction is still a hazard. Plastic fencing should be placed as a precaution for children. Paicos will check on this issue.

Tufts noted that the stop sign on Sheridan and Lothrop Street is facing the wrong way. Paicos will contact Roger Hill first thing in the morning.

On Clark’s motion, seconded by Tufts, the Board voted unanimously to adjourn at 9:10 p.m.

APPROVED_______________________________

DATE_______________________________

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