Selectmen's Minutes March 13, 2008
6 HOLLAND STREET
PO BOX 139
MOULTONBOROUGH, NH 03254
Selectmen’s Meeting March 13 , 2008
DRAFT
MINUTES
Present: Selectmen: Karel A. Crawford, Edward J. Charest, James F. Gray, Joel R. Mudgett, Betsey L. Patten; Carter Terenzini, Town Administrator, Hope K. Kokas, Office Secretary.
I. CALL TO ORDER: Karel called the meeting to Order at 7:00 P.M.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
III. REVIEW/APPROVE MINUTES: Joel Made the Motion to approve the Minutes of March 6, 2008 as written. Jim Seconded. The Motion carried Unanimously.
IV. NEW RESIDENTS: Victoria J. Frewin, Allen W. & Joan C. Harding, Stephen R. Betz, Jr., Sarah B. Blackadar, Albert J. Camden, Kaitlin A. Hull, Maria E. McKenna, Elizabeth M. Page, Cristen M. Spinale, Elizabeth M. Spinale, Joseph M. Vosgershian, Miles C. Trevor, Karen P. & Eric D. Gundersen, Robert F. & Mary L. Allen, Paul F. & Martha L. Duffy, Sunipa Kanyanutcharat, Paul C. Devito, Jr.
V. PUBLIC MEETING:
8:00 Non-Public Session (Possible Request Re: Litigation & Personnel)
1. Laurie Whitley congratulated Ed and Karel for being re-elected for another term and thanked them for their continued service to the Town. Referring to the Municipal Needs Committee Minutes of March 4, 2008 and the supporting material about Warrant Articles 9 & 10, Ms. Whitley asked how this information could have been included in the mailing that arrived in individual’s homes on Friday, March 7th. She stated that her point is that someone in the MNC is not following the chain of command and released this information to the Moultonboro Citizen’s Alliance prior to the Selectmen viewing it. Tom Howard, Chairman of the RSPT, clarified that the actual memo was not mailed, but what was mailed contained the same information. Ms. Whitley stated that she does not expect the Selectmen to provide answers, but felt that appropriate procedures need to be followed and it was a misuse of information. Ralph Carrasco, Chairman of the MNC, commented that this is the first he’s heard of this and didn’t know the information had been distributed. He added that the memo was emailed to the Selectmen on Wednesday at 4:00 pm. Hope reported that the email was not opened until the next day, Thursday and was included in the Selectmen’s packet even though it was a late submission. She added that Barbara Rando sent an email on Tuesday, asking for the MNC to be on the Agenda, under Old Business for open issues. There was no attachment to this email. Karel responded that the MNC is given its charge by the Selectmen. Mr. Howard provided a copy of what was sent out by the Moultonboro Citizen’s Alliance to the Selectmen. Ms. Whitley stressed that her point is that all committees report to the Selectmen and need to follow the same procedures to make information public. Hollis Austin asked if the Moultonboro Citizen’s Alliance is being accused of something. Karel replied that the point of this is that information was disclosed before it came to the Selectmen. Ms. Whitley stated that her concern is that someone in the MNC distributed information prematurely. Mr. Howard replied to Mr. Austin that the information that was presented to the Selectmen on March 6th was received in people’s homes on March 7th and the heading on the document was Moultonboro Citizen’s Alliance. Mr. Carrasco, as Chairman, apologized and stated that he would look into this issue.
2. Freddie Gale presented to the Selectmen her letter of resignation as Chair of the Senior Needs
Committee. She stated that from the 2003 Feasibility Study, her understanding for this committee was “to guide the effort regarding the establishment of a Senior Center.” Ms. Gale added that she feels others have overstepped the bounds of the original charter and desire to take the committee in a different direction. Karel stated that the Selectmen accept Ms. Gale’s resignation with regret, but understand her reasoning. Ed expressed his regret, stating that like the nation, the Town is divided. The division is based on unreasonable criticism, which after a while becomes intolerable and is undermining volunteer service. The Selectmen thanked Ms. Gale for her service.
3. Gary Torressen congratulated Ed and Karel on their re-election, offering to help to unify the Town by opening dialog in the community and rejuvenating volunteerism. He expressed his concern that he will not be able to attend Town Meeting as he must work. Mr. Torressen asked how citizens could provide the Selectmen with input about having Town Meeting scheduled on a Saturday. In addition, he inquired if the Selectmen and the School Board have decided to keep Town Meeting day on a Saturday. Karel replied that Town Meeting day has always been held on a Wednesday, after Election Day. They had received suggestions to move it to a Saturday, to allow more people to attend the meeting. The suggestion was made as many elderly people do not like to drive at night. Both Boards felt it was worth giving it a try and if the response is positive, the two Boards will decide. Karel added that she is optimistic. Ed commented that the Summer Informational Meeting also came about by a suggestion, allowing residents and seasonal property owners an opportunity to hear from the Selectmen and voice their opinions. The response has been very good. Betsey stated that the decision for the Saturday Town Meeting was based on hearing from seniors who don’t like to drive at night and the need for childcare. The Selectmen looked at how the Town of Littleton has handled the combined Saturday School and Town Meeting. Joel agreed that the decision was based on seniors not wanting to drive at night. Carter suggested that perhaps the newspaper reporter(s) in the audience could include in their article asking to provide the Selectmen with feedback about having Town Meeting on a Saturday. Karel added that people can submit their comments in writing to the Selectmen. Chief Scott Kinmond reported that there is a parking plan in place. Certain areas of Academy Drive will be coned off as ‘No Parking’ areas, with Police officers directing traffic, Explorers directing parking, and the school is providing a shuttle bus for those who are parked a distance away from the school. In addition, the Chief stated that people can walk through the school versus entering in the back.
VI. NEW BUSINESS:
1. LRPC, Lakes Region Transportation Plan 2008: Karel acknowledged receiving the 2008 Transportation Plan done by the LRPC. The Selectmen will review it.
2. LRPC Link to Town Website, Route 25 Corridor Study: Karel stated that the LRPC has requested that the Town add a link to its website for the Route 25 Corridor Study. The Selectmen approved the request by Consensus.
3. Elizabeth B. Dow, RN, Resignation, March 21, 2008: Karel accepted Ms. Dow’s letter of resignation with regret. The Selectmen wish her well in her future endeavors. An advertisement for the position was submitted by Debbie Peaslee, the Director of the Visiting Nurse Services.
VII. OLD BUSINESS:
1. NH Public Radio, Town Meeting 2008: Carter provided the Selectmen with copies of the Internet site and what the Town submitted was presented objectively, without pros or cons or the Selectmen’s recommendation. In addition, Carter was able to provide NHPR with feedback as this is the first year for the website. Betsey asked if NHPR was able to count the “hits” the Town received. Carter was not sure, but would inquire. Bob Gagnon suggested that the Town consider broadcasting Selectmen’s meetings and Town Meeting via dial up technology. Karel thanked him for his suggestion and information provided, adding that she was sure it was a wonderful tool, but has heard that it can be disruptive if callers are allowed to interrupt.
VIII. OTHER BUSINESS:
1. Legislative Update: Betsey reported that the House has been in session for a day and a half. Some of the bills before them dealt with terminology for members of Select Boards; use of cellular phones and records for the collection of child support; procedure requiring health insurance for all UNH students; permissible food items allowed in school vending machines; and NH Retirement. Betsey stated that the House will be in session for three days next week and the bill for the Cost for an Adequate Education is still in the Senate. Karel asked Betsey why the Legislature is concerned with the title of Selectman, which she prefers over Selectwoman. Betsey agreed that she’s fine with being a Selectman. Ed commented that he thinks the change is appropriate. Joel expressed his dismay that the Legislators have focused their time on this issue.
2. Planning Board Update: Ed reported that last night’s meeting was long, adding that although building permits have decreased, requests for subdivisions have not. They also worked on requests for boundary line adjustments. Cartographics Associates, Inc., presented to the Planning Board the new Internet mapping services provided by Sustainable Mapping Solutions, which is scheduled to replace Maps-on-Line. He added that people were impressed with the overlays and the ability to add layers including wetlands, dry hydrants, etc. The Town, CAI and SMS will continue to respect property owners who wish that their personal information be excluded.
3. Administration Update: Carter reported that he is now on the job full time. He will be meeting with department heads during a staff meeting next week and looking for feedback about the Town’s website. The Website Committee will be meeting on March 25th. If the budget is approved, he expects that the improvements to the website will evolve and not happen overnight. As earlier suggested, web-casts could be something done in the future, but only if it can be reliable and a quality product.
4. Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting Minutes, March 5, 2008: Acknowledged.
5. Moultonborough Library Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, February 7, 2008: Acknowledged.
6. Municipal Needs Committee, March 4, 2008: Acknowledged.
7. Chief Scott Kinmond presented to the Selectmen on behalf of the Road Agent, a shortfall in the proposed 2008 Highway budget. Working with Wayne Richardson, the Chief stated that they have exceeded what was budgeted for the outside contractors that plow private roads and the funds for sand and salt for both Town and private roads. He explained that the Highway Department maintains and plows over 300 miles of road and 200 miles are private roads. Considering that we’ve had over 115 inches of snow, the crew is doing the best that they can. Projecting the cost based on December and February, they are asking to increase these line items a total of $95,000 ($50,000 private contractors, $20,000 sand, $25,000 salt). On behalf of the Road Agent, the Chief requested that the Selectmen increase those Highway Department 2008 line items. He added that if December is mild and the money is not spent, then it can be returned. People on private roads have had a high demand for service. Ed commented that all of the Selectmen have received calls at home reporting bad road conditions. He stated that he reminds these callers that increased services costs money. Karel asked the Chief how those on private roads in Center Harbor will handle it when their town no longer plows their roads. Chief Kinmond replied that these property owners will have to contract with private contractors. He added that the Town has seen an increase of requests due to the summer camps being replaced by four season homes. Joel stated that he’s been studying the Highway’s costs and they are now way over. He suggested that next year, any money not spent be placed in a special emergency Highway account. Now the concern is with mud season, with the focus on pushing the snow banks back to prevent further destruction to Town roads. Karel stated that the Town Moderator at the beginning of Town Meeting will announce the changes needed for the Warrant Articles and the Selectmen will amend Article 35. Joe Quaresima asked if any Town roads have been posted, noting that state roads have been posted. Chief Kinmond replied that he was not aware of any, but he will check with the Road Agent. The Chief was asked if it was less expensive for the Town to plow private roads or for private contractors to do the work. He responded that property owners on private roads are getting a good deal. Ed commented that if the Town should ever decide to not plow private roads, there will be negative consequences such as a reduction in property values and safety issues for drivers and emergency services.
IX. PENDING:
1. Residency Ordinance for Registered Sexual Offenders, 4/15/08:
2. Policy for Closing Town Offices Emergency/Inclement Weather, 5/15/08:
IX. CORRESPONDENCE:
1. Jim Castleberry, March 10, 2008: Karel asked Mr. Castleberry if he received the clarification he was requesting from the Town Moderator. Mr. Castleberry stated that he did not. Karel replied that she felt the Town Moderator did provide him with clarification to his question and since filing his complaint to the Attorney General and beginning litigation, the Town Moderator and the Selectmen have no response.
Karel asked for a Motion to go into Non-Public Session. Ed Made the Motion for the Selectmen to go into Non-Public Session per RSA 91-A:3 II (a) for a personnel matter and RSA 91-A:3 (e) for possible litigation. Joel Seconded the Motion. Karel called for a roll call: Jim – Aye; Betsey – Aye; Ed – Aye; Joel – Aye; Karel – Aye. The Selectmen went into Non-Public Session at 8:26 pm.
Jim Made the Motion for the Selectmen to come out of Non-Public Session. Betsey Seconded the Motion. Karel called for a roll call: Jim – Aye; Betsey – Aye; Ed – Aye; Joel – Aye; Karel – Aye. The Selectmen came out of Non-Public Session at 9:25 pm.
Ed Made the Motion to seal the Non-Public Minutes until the matter is resolved. Jim Seconded the Motion. The Motion carried Unanimously.
X. ADJOURNMENT: Jim Made the Motion to Adjourn. Betsey Seconded.
Motion Carried Unanimously.
Karel adjourned the meeting at 9:26 p.m.
_____________________________________ ____________________________
Approved Date
Respectfully Submitted
Hope K. Kokas, Office Secretary
3. Gary Torressen congratulated Ed and Karel on their re-election, offering to help to unify the Town by opening dialog in the community and rejuvenating volunteerism. He expressed his concern that he will not be able to attend Town Meeting as he must work. Mr. Torressen asked how citizens could provide the Selectmen with input about having Town Meeting scheduled on a Saturday. In addition, he inquired if the Selectmen and the School Board have decided to keep Town Meeting day on a Saturday. Karel replied that Town Meeting day has always been held on a Wednesday, after Election Day. They had received suggestions to move it to a Saturday, to allow more people to attend the meeting. The suggestion was made as many elderly people do not like to drive at night. Both Boards felt it was worth giving it a try and if the response is positive, the two Boards will decide. Karel added that she is optimistic. Ed commented that the Summer Informational Meeting also came about by a suggestion, allowing residents and seasonal property owners an opportunity to hear from the Selectmen and voice their opinions. The response has been very good. Betsey stated that the decision for the Saturday Town Meeting was based on hearing from seniors who don’t like to drive at night and the need for childcare. The Selectmen looked at how the Town of Littleton has handled the combined Saturday School and Town Meeting. Joel agreed that the decision was based on seniors not wanting to drive at night. Carter suggested that perhaps the newspaper reporter(s) in the audience could include in their article asking to provide the Selectmen with feedback about having Town Meeting on a Saturday. Karel added that people can submit their comments in writing to the Selectmen. Chief Scott Kinmond reported that there is a parking plan in place. Certain areas of Academy Drive will be coned off as ‘No Parking’ areas, with Police officers directing traffic, Explorers directing parking, and the school is providing a shuttle bus for those who are parked a distance away from the school. In addition, the Chief stated that people can walk through the school versus entering in the back.
VI. NEW BUSINESS:
1. LRPC, Lakes Region Transportation Plan 2008: Karel acknowledged receiving the 2008 Transportation Plan done by the LRPC. The Selectmen will review it.
2. LRPC Link to Town Website, Route 25 Corridor Study: Karel stated that the LRPC has requested that the Town add a link to its website for the Route 25 Corridor Study. The Selectmen approved the request by Consensus.
3. Elizabeth B. Dow, RN, Resignation, March 21, 2008: Karel accepted Ms. Dow’s letter of resignation with regret. The Selectmen wish her well in her future endeavors. An advertisement for the position was submitted by Debbie Peaslee, the Director of the Visiting Nurse Services.
VII. OLD BUSINESS:
1. NH Public Radio, Town Meeting 2008: Carter provided the Selectmen with copies of the Internet site and what the Town submitted was presented objectively, without pros or cons or the Selectmen’s recommendation. In addition, Carter was able to provide NHPR with feedback as this is the first year for the website. Betsey asked if NHPR was able to count the “hits” the Town received. Carter was not sure, but would inquire. Bob Gagnon suggested that the Town consider broadcasting Selectmen’s meetings and Town Meeting via dial up technology. Karel thanked him for his suggestion and information provided, adding that she was sure it was a wonderful tool, but has heard that it can be disruptive if callers are allowed to interrupt.
VIII. OTHER BUSINESS:
1. Legislative Update: Betsey reported that the House has been in session for a day and a half. Some of the bills before them dealt with terminology for members of Select Boards; use of cellular phones and records for the collection of child support; procedure requiring health insurance for all UNH students; permissible food items allowed in school vending machines; and NH Retirement. Betsey stated that the House will be in session for three days next week and the bill for the Cost for an Adequate Education is still in the Senate. Karel asked Betsey why the Legislature is concerned with the title of Selectman, which she prefers over Selectwoman. Betsey agreed that she’s fine with being a Selectman. Ed commented that he thinks the change is appropriate. Joel expressed his dismay that the Legislators have focused their time on this issue.
2. Planning Board Update: Ed reported that last night’s meeting was long, adding that although building permits have decreased, requests for subdivisions have not. They also worked on requests for boundary line adjustments. Cartographics Associates, Inc., presented to the Planning Board the new Internet mapping services provided by Sustainable Mapping Solutions, which is scheduled to replace Maps-on-Line. He added that people were impressed with the overlays and the ability to add layers including wetlands, dry hydrants, etc. The Town, CAI and SMS will continue to respect property owners who wish that their personal information be excluded.
3. Administration Update: Carter reported that he is now on the job full time. He will be meeting with department heads during a staff meeting next week and looking for feedback about the Town’s website. The Website Committee will be meeting on March 25th. If the budget is approved, he expects that the improvements to the website will evolve and not happen overnight. As earlier suggested, web-casts could be something done in the future, but only if it can be reliable and a quality product.
4. Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting Minutes, March 5, 2008: Acknowledged.
5. Moultonborough Library Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, February 7, 2008: Acknowledged.
6. Municipal Needs Committee, March 4, 2008: Acknowledged.
7. Chief Scott Kinmond presented to the Selectmen on behalf of the Road Agent, a shortfall in the proposed 2008 Highway budget. Working with Wayne Richardson, the Chief stated that they have exceeded what was budgeted for the outside contractors that plow private roads and the funds for sand and salt for both Town and private roads. He explained that the Highway Department maintains and plows over 300 miles of road and 200 miles are private roads. Considering that we’ve had over 115 inches of snow, the crew is doing the best that they can. Projecting the cost based on December and February, they are asking to increase these line items a total of $95,000 ($50,000 private contractors, $20,000 sand, $25,000 salt). On behalf of the Road Agent, the Chief requested that the Selectmen increase those Highway Department 2008 line items. He added that if December is mild and the money is not spent, then it can be returned. People on private roads have had a high demand for service. Ed commented that all of the Selectmen have received calls at home reporting bad road conditions. He stated that he reminds these callers that increased services costs money. Karel asked the Chief how those on private roads in Center Harbor will handle it when their town no longer plows their roads. Chief Kinmond replied that these property owners will have to contract with private contractors. He added that the Town has seen an increase of requests due to the summer camps being replaced by four season homes. Joel stated that he’s been studying the Highway’s costs and they are now way over. He suggested that next year, any money not spent be placed in a special emergency Highway account. Now the concern is with mud season, with the focus on pushing the snow banks back to prevent further destruction to Town roads. Karel stated that the Town Moderator at the beginning of Town Meeting will announce the changes needed for the Warrant Articles and the Selectmen will amend Article 35. Joe Quaresima asked if any Town roads have been posted, noting that state roads have been posted. Chief Kinmond replied that he was not aware of any, but he will check with the Road Agent. The Chief was asked if it was less expensive for the Town to plow private roads or for private contractors to do the work. He responded that property owners on private roads are getting a good deal. Ed commented that if the Town should ever decide to not plow private roads, there will be negative consequences such as a reduction in property values and safety issues for drivers and emergency services.
IX. PENDING:
1. Residency Ordinance for Registered Sexual Offenders, 4/15/08:
2. Policy for Closing Town Offices Emergency/Inclement Weather, 5/15/08:
IX. CORRESPONDENCE:
1. Jim Castleberry, March 10, 2008: Karel asked Mr. Castleberry if he received the clarification he was requesting from the Town Moderator. Mr. Castleberry stated that he did not. Karel replied that she felt the Town Moderator did provide him with clarification to his question and since filing his complaint to the Attorney General and beginning litigation, the Town Moderator and the Selectmen have no response.
Karel asked for a Motion to go into Non-Public Session. Ed Made the Motion for the Selectmen to go into Non-Public Session per RSA 91-A:3 II (a) for a personnel matter and RSA 91-A:3 (e) for possible litigation. Joel Seconded the Motion. Karel called for a roll call: Jim – Aye; Betsey – Aye; Ed – Aye; Joel – Aye; Karel – Aye. The Selectmen went into Non-Public Session at 8:26 pm.
Jim Made the Motion for the Selectmen to come out of Non-Public Session. Betsey Seconded the Motion. Karel called for a roll call: Jim – Aye; Betsey – Aye; Ed – Aye; Joel – Aye; Karel – Aye. The Selectmen came out of Non-Public Session at 9:25 pm.
Ed Made the Motion to seal the Non-Public Minutes until the matter is resolved. Jim Seconded the Motion. The Motion carried Unanimously.
X. ADJOURNMENT: Jim Made the Motion to Adjourn. Betsey Seconded.
Motion Carried Unanimously.
Karel adjourned the meeting at 9:26 p.m.
_____________________________________ ____________________________
Approved Date
Respectfully Submitted
Hope K. Kokas, Office Secretary
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