PITTSFIELD SELECTBOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
Archive 2007
PITTSFIELD SELECTBOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
DATE: December 18, 2007
PRESENT: Mark Begin, Peter Borden, Jr., Patty Haskins, Dave Colton, Greg Martin, Carl Oertel, Caleb Hawley, Martha Beyersdorf
ABSENT: Suana Bicek
AGENDA: Call to Order
Approve Minutes
Guests and Committee Reports
Pittsfield Volunteer Fire Department re: request for funding for new fire truck
Tim Pratt re: snowmobiling on Liberty Hill
Correspondence
VT Dept. of Taxes re: results of 2007 Equalization Study
Rutland County Sheriffs Department re: November citation report
Rutland County Sheriffs Department re: 2008 Contract
Rutland Superior Court re: proposed Rutland County Budget FY 2008-9
TRORC re: Minutes of October 24, 2007 meeting
Green Mountain Economic Development Corp re: Thank You
VLCT re: 2008 Legislative Luncheon for law enforcement
VLCT re: VLCT News December 2007
Schindler Elevator Corporation re: service partnership
Kulig & Sullivan, P.C. re: Town Representation
Old Business
Planning Commission re: Development Bylaw
VTrans re: Ancient Roads Survey
Town Roads/Highways re: Partridge Row vs Road
Town Office re: computer equipment
New Business
Town Report re: Selectboard Statement
Notice of Violation of Pittsfield Flood Hazard Regulations #04-07 re: Joseph and Patricia Fuster
Budget
Cemetery
Highway
General Fund
Other Business
Building Maintenance re: light panel in Town Clerks Office
Septic Officer re: responsibility vs new State regulations
Listers re: request for legal review of Reappraisal Contract
Selectboard Secretary re: additional pay for meeting
Adjourn
Mark called the meeting to order at 5:55pm. The Minutes of the December 4, 2007 meeting were approved with no corrections or changes.
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 2
December 18, 2007
Guests and Committee Reports
Pittsfield Volunteer Fire Department re: request for funding for new fire truck. Dave Colton said that the organization would like to replace the current pickup, which is thirty years old, with a newer vehicle. They would like to buy a one-ton, four-wheel drive, dual wheel vehicle with a service body and ladder rack. Their target number is $45,000.00. Dave said that the department can put $20,000.00 towards the vehicle and would like to place a line item in the Warning for Town Meeting for a sum not to exceed $25,000.00. He said that they would sell the older vehicle with a sealed bid. It has 2,800 miles and several parties have expressed an interest in purchasing it when the time comes. Discussion. The Board agreed to add the line item and Dave will write up a draft and forward it to Patty. Those present were thanked for coming and explaining their request to the Board.
Tim Pratt re: snowmobiling on Liberty Hill. Tim was not present. The Secretary was asked to write him a letter inviting him to a future meeting to explain his concern.
Correspondence
VT Dept. of Taxes re: results of 2007 Equalization Study. Martha explained that the Listers would review the study and see if a Petition for Redetermination of the CLA and COD would be needed this year. Effective January 1, 2008 the Coefficient of Dispersion (COD) is 24.69% compared to 22.37% in 2007. The Common Level of Appraisal for 2008 is 77.56% compared to 84.25% in 2007. The COD is a measure of the uniformity of appraisal for all properties in the Grand List. It measures the average deviation from market value of sold properties from the average town-wide level of appraisal. The higher the COD, the greater the disparity in how properties are assessed in the town. The CLA provides a town comparison of the listed value to the estimate of fair market value. The Listers are currently reviewing a contract for reappraisal. Once approved by the Selectboard, the company contracted by the Town will begin this process in 2008.
Rutland County Sheriffs Department re: November citation report. There were no incidents reported. This will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
Rutland County Sheriffs Department re: 2008 Contract. This was tabled to the next meeting.
Rutland Superior Court re: proposed Rutland County Budget FY 2008-09. (See Budget General Fund)
TRORC re: Minutes of October 24, 2007 meeting. No action taken by the Board.
Green Mountain Economic Development Corp re: Thank You. This thank you is for the Towns contribution and support in 2007. No action taken by the Board.
VLCT re: 2008 Legislative Luncheon for law enforcement. The Vermont Association of Chiefs of Police sponsors this luncheon. No action taken by the Board.
VLCT re: VLCT News December 2007. No action taken by the Board.
Schindler Elevator Corporation re: service partnership. This company is in the process of developing the Vermont service market for Schindler Elevator. Patty explained that there has only been one company authorized to obtain parts and provide service for the Concord Elevator in the Town Hall. Discussion. The Secretary was asked to send them a letter to see if they can provide parts and service for the Towns elevator.
Kulig & Sullivan, P.C. re: Town Representation. This letter is in response to the Towns letter inquiring if Attorney Chris Sullivan would be interested in providing representation to the Town in future legal matters. Attorney Sullivan said that it would be a pleasure to represent the Town and would be willing to meet with the board to discuss this. The Secretary was asked to invite him to a future meeting.
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 3
December 18, 2007
Old Business
Planning Commission re: Development Bylaw. The public hearing presented by the Selectboard will be held on January 24, 2007. It will be warned in the newspaper on January 2nd. Copies of the Bylaws are available in the Town Clerks Office for those who would like to review them in preparation for the hearing.
VTrans re: Ancient Roads Survey. Sarah Gray prepared and mailed in the survey. A copy of the survey will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
Town Roads/Highways re: Partridge Row vs Road. An email from a property owner, which was received on December 3rd but not read until after the December 4th meeting, expressed their request that the road be changed to Row. Discussion. The Board felt that their decision based on discussion at the December 4th meeting should be upheld. The road name will be kept as Partridge Road.
Town Office re: computer equipment. Patty said that she contacted Becky Donnet, who said that she could purge the hard drives, however there is no way to guarantee that data cannot be retrieved. She estimated three hours for a total of $114.00 to do the job. Discussion. It was felt that it would be best to remove the hard drive and then donate them. Stockbridge School had been suggested as a possible place to donate them. They would have the necessary licenses for software. Patty will call them to see if they are interested. She will also explain that they would need to have new hard drives installed. A new hard drive would cost between $75-80.00.
New Business
Town Report re: Selectboard Statement. Patty passed out copies of the statement prepared by Suana. Discussion. It was reviewed and several changes were made. The time line for the Development Bylaw Hearing was discussed.
Notice of Violation of Pittsfield Flood Hazard Regulations #04-07 re: Joseph and Patricia Fuster. This is a copy of the Notice prepared and sent to the Fusters by Sarah Gray, Administrative Officer of the Pittsfield Zoning Board. In the Notice she indicates that the violation concerns the bridge constructed across the Tweed River. She had determined that a portion of the bridge and its foundation are located within the designated Floodway of the Tweed River contrary to the provision of the Flood Hazard Regulations which she notes. She gives them seven days from receipt of this certified letter to cure the violation. Failure within that period may result in the Town bringing enforcement action as provided by State Statute. The Fusters are entitled to appeal this Notice and have the appeal heard by the Zoning Board of Adjustment. This Notice is for the Boards information and no action is necessary by the Selectboard. It will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
Budget
Cemetery
Income
Dividends increase to $600.00
Expense
Tree Removal increase to $200.00
Hired Equipment increase to $400.00
Wages increase to $3,600.00
Highway
Road Commissioner George Deblon provided an explanation of his proposed increases in his 2008 budget. Fuel has had the biggest impact on the price of everything from culverts, gravel, sand, lubricants, and parts. The equipment is getting older and tires and repairs are needed for all the vehicles. He also cites unexpected occurrences such as last springs washouts and tree damage.
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 4
December 18, 2007
Income
Interest decrease to $250.00
Expense
Fuel (Diesel) increase to $7,500.00
(Lubricants) increase to $450.00
Hired Equipment (Rochester Road Maintenance) decrease to $2,000.00
Material (Gravel) decrease to $14,000.00
Garage Supplies decrease to $500.00
Employee Benefits (Medical Insurance) increase to $6,277.00
Repair (International 4900) increase to $3,000.00
(Ford F-450) increase to $3,000.00
(Loader) increase to $3,000.00
(Grader) increase to $3,000.00
(Rake) increase to $250.00
(Chainsaw) increase to $75.00
(Sander Swenson) increase to $1,500.00
(Sander Torwell) increase to $200.00
The Board had some concerns regarding a few issues and asked Patty to invite George to the next meeting to clarify and answer questions from the Board regarding them. The Board also discussed speed bumps and where they should be within the budget outline.
General Fund
Income
Dogs (Licenses) decrease to $350.00
Liquor Licenses decrease to $280.00
Fax decrease to $30.00
Road Fines decrease to $1,200.00
Expense
Other Taxes (Rutland County Tax) increase to $9,696.00 (estimated)
Bonds & Insurance (VLCT Insurance Package) increase to $11,483.00
Dues and Contributions (VLCT) increase to $850.00
(VT Clerk & Treasurers Assoc.) increase to $40.00
(Quin Town Seniors) increase to $1.901.10
(VT Assessors & Listers Assoc.) increase to $15.00
(VT Trails & Greenways) Before considering their request, Patty was asked to see if there was any involvement with the Town of Pittsfield
Other Services (Advertising) decrease to $1,600.00
Misc. Services (Box Rent) increase to $40.00
Maintenance (Band Stand) decrease to $500.00
(Sand Shed) decrease to $2,700.00
Utilities Garage (Phone) increase to $700.00
(LP Gas) increase to $3,000.00
Utilities Street Lights increase to $2,800.00
Parks & Grounds (Labor) increase to $2,300.00
(Fuel) increase to $240.00
(Hired Equipment) increase to $300.00
(New Equipment) decrease to $250.00
Budget Disbursements (Parks & Grounds Equipment Fund) Increase to $300.00
This is a new category and the Board felt it was time to start putting some money into this fund for future equipment purchases.
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 5
December 18, 2007
Other Business
Building Maintenance re: light panel in Town Clerks Office. The ceiling tile holding the light over the landing near the bottom of the stairs is loose and may pose a hazard. Peter inspected it and will have it repaired.
Septic Officer re: responsibility vs new State regulations. Patty and Martha explained to the Board that some septic issues have come up since the new septic rules took over on July 1, 2007 and it is unclear how some of them should be handled. In addition, since all permits are now being issued by the State, there is no remuneration for the position of Septic Officer anymore. Discussion. Martha was asked to contact Terry Shearer and Sandra Conant in the Springfield Office and invite them to a future meeting to discuss this matter.
Listers re: request for legal review of Reappraisal Contract. Martha said that the Listers would like to have the contract reviewed by the Towns attorney before presenting it to the Board for their review and approval. Discussion. Martha was asked to contact Attorney Chris Sullivan and see what his fee would be for this and what his turnaround time would be.
Selectboard Secretary re: additional pay for meeting. The Board approved additional pay of $25.00 for this meeting due to the additional time in preparing correspondence.
The meeting adjourned at 8:40pm. The next Regular Selectboard meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 8, 2008 at 6:00pm at the Town Clerks Office.
Recorded by
Martha L. Beyersdorf
Secretary
Approved January 8, 2008
_______________________________________
Suana Bicek, Chair
_______________________________________
Mark Begin
_______________________________________
Peter Borden, Jr.
PITTSFIELD SELECTBOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
DATE: December 4, 2007
PRESENT: Suana Bicek, Mark Begin, Peter Borden, Jr., Patty Haskins, Henry Hotchkiss, Arnold Johnson
AGENDA: Call to Order
Approve Minutes
a. November 6, 2007 Regular Meeting
b. November 20, 2007 Regular Meeting
Guests and Committee Reports
a. Henry Hotchkiss re: Building Committee update
Correspondence
a. VTrans re: Ancient Roads Survey
b. Timberline Events re: request to use parking lot
c. VT Trails & Greenways Council re: budget request
d. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Water Quality Certification
e. The Trust for Public Land re: Fall 2007 newsletter
f. Lorman Education Services re: Conservation Easements and More in Vermont seminar
g. Don Flynn re: article in 100 North column
Old Business
a. Town Roads/Highways re: Partridge Row vs Road
b. Clear River Tavern re: Outside Consumption Permit
c. Town Attorney re: future representation
New Business
a. Planning Commission re: Development Bylaw
b. Selectboard re: meeting schedule for December and January
c. Town Report/Town Meeting re: timeline
Other Business
a. Town Office re: computer equipment
b. Selectboard Secretary re: additional pay for meeting
Adjourn
Suana called the meeting to order at 5:58pm. The Minutes of the November 6, 2007 Regular Meeting and November 20, 2007 Regular Meeting were approved with no corrections or changes.
Guests and Committee Reports
a. Henry Hotchkiss re: Building Committee update. Henry said that the Committee has narrowed the proposals down to two plans. The first includes a new 1600 sq. building behind the present building and with minimal maintenance to the present building. The second plan entails a new building in place of the present building. This building would house a 1600 sq. Town Clerks Office with 800 sq. for other purposes. This plan would be more economical and would be built using standard measurements. The Committee is awaiting costs for both plans from the architect. Henry added that building costs seem to be stabilizing and they are trying to schedule a meeting with the architect for the near future. The
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 2
December 4, 2007
questionnaire was discussed and it was hoped to have it in the mail in late January/early February so that results could be made public at Town Meeting.
Correspondence
a. VTrans re: Ancient Roads Survey. This survey is related to Act 178 and ancient roads. This survey is the same as the November 2006 survey. The deadline for completing this is December 21st. This survey will be forwarded to Sarah Gray for completion.
b. Timberline Events re: request to use parking lot. The 3rd Annual Green Mountain Relay is scheduled for June 22, 2008. They are requesting the use of the Town Garage parking area as an exchange area. The Board approved their request and the Secretary will send a response to them.
c. VT Trails & Greenways Council re: budget request. This organization is requesting an appropriation of $20.00 in the Towns budget. This organization serves as a voice for recreation, trails and conservation issues throughout the State. Membership is comprised of a variety of outdoor groups. This request will be included in budget preparation.
d. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Water Quality Certification. This document pertains to the US Army Corps of Engineers and certification by the State of Vermont for General Permit #NAE-2007-24. This appeared to be for information only and no action was required of the Board.
e. The Trust for Public Land re: Fall 2007 newsletter. No action taken.
f. Lorman Education Services re: Conservation Easements and More in Vermont seminar. This seminar will be held on January 30, 2008 in South Burlington and will cover various topics pertaining to property easements. No action taken.
g. Don Flynn re: article in 100 North column. The article of concern to Don appeared in The November 22-28 issue of The Mountain Times and pertained to the former Amee farm and plans for its future. Dons concern was whether Act 250 should be involved as the article implied a commercial venture. Discussion. The Board felt that there was no action for them to take at this time.
Old Business
a. Town Roads/Highways re: Partridge Row vs Road. E-911 Coordinator Don Flynn responded with an email explaining his findings regarding the change in the road name. He said that no concerns were raised as a result of the implementation of the 911 program (including notification, tax bills, etc). Therefore he assumes that the name will not be changed without agreement from all the residents on the road. Patty said that she only received one response in reply to the letter the Secretary was asked to send out after the last meeting. Discussion. The Board asked the Secretary to notify the property owners that the road name will remain Partridge Road.
b. Clear River Tavern re: Outside Consumption Permit. Discussion. The Board decided to table this matter until a future date.
c. Town Attorney re: future representation. Suana said that she contacted VLCT and felt that their recommendation was not suitable for the Town. Attorney Chris Sullivan has done business on the Towns behalf in the past and it was agreed that he would be a good choice regarding matters in the future if he were willing to work with the Town. The Secretary was asked to send a letter to him asking if he would be willing to take on future issues with the Town.
New Business
a. Planning Commission re: Development Bylaw. Arnold Johnson was introduced as the new chairperson of the Commission. The Pittsfield Planning Commission has held a public hearing regarding the Development Bylaw and has made changes to the context and map as
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 3
a result. It is now presented to the Selectboard for their public hearing. Discussion. It was decided to hold the public hearing on January 24, 2008 at 7:00pm with the public vote to be held on Town Meeting Day. Suana said she would see if Kevin Geiger from TRORC were available to attend the hearing to answer any questions.
b. Selectboard re: meeting schedule for December and January. Suana said that she would be unable to attend the December 18th meeting. She also noted that since January 1st is the first Tuesday of the month, that the meetings should be moved to the 8th and 22nd. Mark and Peter agreed. The Secretary will post Warnings regarding the January meetings.
c. Town Report/Town Meeting re: timeline. Patty reviewed the timeline. Patty said that one of the duties of Town Auditor is the preparation of Town Report. This year the Auditors will take over more of the responsibility. Patty said that the Town Clerks Office would work with them in the transition of the process. The Secretary will send out letters to the various boards and organizations requesting annual reports, financial records, etc. This year reports can be emailed directly to the Town Clerk.
Other Business
a. Town Office re: computer equipment. The new computers have been installed and are operational. Discussion of disposal of the old computers. Patty said that they would need to have all information purged from the hard drive. She will contact various people regarding the cost. The Board agreed to sell Patty the older printer at a reduced cost.
b. Selectboard Secretary re: additional pay for meeting. The Board approved additional pay of $25.00 for this meeting due to the additional time in preparing correspondence.
The meeting adjourned at 7:00pm. The next Regular Selectboard meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 18, 2007 at 6:00pm at the Town Clerks Office.
Recorded by
Martha L. Beyersdorf
Secretary
Approved December 18, 2007
_______________________________________
Suana Bicek, Chair
_______________________________________
Mark Begin
_______________________________________
Peter Borden, Jr.
PITTSFIELD SELECTBOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
DATE: November 20, 2007
PRESENT: Suana Bicek, Peter Borden, Jr., Patty Haskins
ABSENT: Mark Begin
AGENDA: Call to Order
Approve Minutes
Correspondence
a. VLCT Health Trust re: New Vision Plan
b. TRORC re: Policy on Regional Plan preparation and adoption
c. VT Emergency Management re: Pre-Disaster Mitigation FY08 grant competition
d. VLCT re: Voluntary Life Insurance Program
e. Bankruptcy Services LLC re: American Home Mortgage
f. TRORC re: Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plans
Old Business
a. Clear River Tavern re: Outside Consumption Permit
b. Town Roads/Highways re: Partridge Row vs Road
New Business
a. Permit for Driveway Construction re: Littlehales at 220 Emerson Way
b. Town Roads/Highways re: parking concern on Liberty Hill Road
c. Town Attorney re: future representation
d. Town Office Building/Town Hall re: water problem on October 27th
Adjourn
Suana called the meeting to order at 5:55pm. The Minutes of the November 6, 2007 meeting were not approved, as there was not a quorum from that meeting in attendance. This will be added to the next meetings agenda.
Correspondence
a. VLCT Health Trust re: New Vision Plan. This plan will be effective January 1, 2008 and is available to all member municipalities on a packaged or voluntary basis. This information will be forwarded to George Deblon, a covered Town employee.
b. TRORC re: Policy on Regional Plan preparation and adoption. Two Rivers adopted a new regional plan on May 30, 2007 replacing one adopted in 2003. This information explains the process and criteria. No action taken by the Board.
c. VT Emergency Management re: Pre-Disaster Mitigation FY08 grant competition. This email announces the opening of the grant competition and explains the grant. No action taken by the Board.
d. VLCT re: Voluntary Life Insurance Program. This email explains the program and who to contact for further information. This will also be forwarded to George Deblon.
e. Bankruptcy Services LLC re: American Home Mortgage. No action taken by the Board.
f. TRORC re: Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plans. Suana explained that the plan adopted by the Town was never approved by FEMA and now needs to be re-written in a format that will be approved. Two Rivers requests that the Selectboard Chair sign a commitment letter stating that the Town of Pittsfield wishes TRORC to draft a pre-disaster mitigation plan for the Town. The Town will subsequently review drafts, supply TRORC with comments and provide access
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 2
November 20, 2007
as needed to further the project. Suana signed the form, which will be returned to Kevin Geiger at Two Rivers.
Old Business
a. Clear River Tavern re: Outside Consumption Permit. This permit was discussed. The Board decided to have Robert Salmeri come to the next meeting with a new permit application and explain exactly what his plans are for various venues at the Tavern.
b. Town Roads/Highways re: Partridge Row vs Road. Martha said that Don Flynn told her that the change appears to have occurred when the GPS people were working on the E911 mapping. The Board asked the Secretary to send letters to the property owners affected and ask for their input with a deadline of December 4th. At that time the road name will be discussed and a decision made.
New Business
a. Permit for Driveway Construction re: Littlehales at 220 Emerson Way. The proposed driveway relocation would be with an entrance further up Liberty Hill Road. Road Commissioner George Deblon has reviewed the site and sees no problem with this change. The Board approved the permit. E-911 Coordinator Don Flynn will be notified as this may affect the Littlehales' address.
b. Town Roads/Highways re: parking concern on Liberty Hill Road. Concern was expressed by a local resident that the vehicles parked near the Canam Steel property reconstruction site were causing a potential problem with vision and safety. Discussion. Suana said she would contact Road Commissioner George Deblon and discuss this with him and ask him to assess the problem.
c. Town Attorney re: future representation. Discussion of the recent issue with Attorney M.B. Neisner. The only two pending issues were the Turnbull suit and the TH15 issues. It was felt that a new attorney should handle any new issues. Suana said that she would contact VLCT to see if they have a list of area attorneys that have experience with Municipal law.
d. Town Office Building/Town Hall re: water problem on October 27th. Discussion. It was decided to wait until the next rainstorm and Peter will check on the buildings at that time.
The meeting adjourned at 6:25pm. The next Regular Selectboard meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 4, 2007 at 6:00pm at the Town Clerks Office.
Recorded by
Martha L. Beyersdorf
Secretary
Approved December 4, 2007
_______________________________________
Suana Bicek, Chair
_______________________________________
Mark Begin
_______________________________________
Peter Borden, Jr.
PITTSFIELD SELECTBOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
DATE: November 6, 2007
PRESENT: Mark Begin, Peter Borden, Jr., Scott Warren
ABSENT: Suana Bicek
AGENDA: Call to Order
Approve Minutes
Guests and Committee Reports
a. Scott Warren re: First Response vehicle update
Correspondence
a. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: WW-3-1439 application receipt for Christopher Kalil
b. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Project Review Sheet WW-3-1439 for Christopher Kalil
c. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Wastewater System & Potable Water Supply Permit WW-3-1439 for Christopher Kalil
d. US Dept. of Agriculture Rural Development re: Community Facility Loan and Grant Program Funding
e. VT Ski Areas Association re: VSAA Reports Fall 2007
f. VT Office of the State Auditor re: Grants Management Workshop
g. White River Partnership re: 2007 Annual Meeting
h. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Project Review Sheet WW-3-1428 Donovan & Mary Fischer
i. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Wastewater System & Potable Water Supply Permit WW-3-1428 for Donovan & Mary Fischer
j. Access New England re: Access New England Fall 2007
k. VT Emergency Management re: VT Municipal Advisory Commission: Grants Management Workshop
l. VT Enhanced 911 Board re: updating issues
m. DuBois & King, Inc. re: description of services
n. SVE Associates re: description of services
o. VLCT re: Health Trust Year in Review
p. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Vermont Country Inn pond, Wetland Project #2007-479
q. Rutland County Sheriffs Department re: September citation report
r. VT Dept. of Taxes re: Order to Reappraise
s. VT Coalition of Municipalities re: 11th Annual Coalition Statewide Meeting
t. Wayne Symon re: Notice of Violation of Pittsfield Flood Hazard Regulations #03-07
u. Multi-State Information Sharing & Analysis Center re: computer security awareness
Old Business
a. Road Commissioner job description re: review and approve
b. Reappraisal re: update from Listers
New Business
a. Town Roads/Highways re: sign damage
b. Citizen Concern/Complaint re: Partridge Row vs Partridge Road
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 2
November 6, 2007
Adjourn
Peter called the meeting to order at 5:55pm. The Minutes of the October 23, 2007 meeting were approved with no corrections or changes.
Guests and Committee Reports
a. Scott Warren re: First Response vehicle update. Scott said that Ted Green Ford made repairs to the vehicle and the cost was less than expected. He said that they felt that the Squad may be able to get another year or two from the vehicle before it needs replacing. It was suggested that this be considered in budgeting for 2009. Mark suggested having the undercarriage oiled to retard rust on the frame. Scott said he would take care of that.
Correspondence
a. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: WW-3-1439 application receipt for Christopher Kalil. This project consists of the construction of a 3-bedroom single family residence on a 1.74-acre lot located on Trillium Hill Road. This letter acknowledges the receipt of the application and fee. It will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
b. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Project Review Sheet WW-3-1439 for Christopher Kalil. This project is described as the construction of a 3-bedroom single family residence with onsite well and wastewater disposal system on a 1.74-acre lot. This will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
c. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Wastewater System & Potable Water Supply Permit WW-3-1439 for Christopher Kalil. This project as described above is approved under the requirements of the regulations and with conditions. This will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
d. US Dept. of Agriculture Rural Development re: Community Facility Loan and Grant Program Funding. Eligible applicants are non-profit organizations including municipal entities and eligible uses include purchasing equipment, repairs and/or upgrades to existing buildings, and the purchase and/or construction of buildings. This information will be forwarded to Building Committee Chair, Henry Hotchkiss.
e. VT Ski Areas Association re: VSAA Reports Fall 2007. No action taken on this publication
f. VT Office of the State Auditor re: Grants Management Workshop. This workshop is co-sponsored by the Vermont Municipal Advisory Commission and will be held on December 5th at VTC in Randolph. This will be forwarded to Building Committee Chair, Henry Hotchkiss.
g. White River Partnership re: 2007 Annual Meeting. The annual meeting was held on November 3rd. No action taken.
h. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Project Review Sheet WW-3-1428 Donovan & Mary Fischer. This project consists of developing a 1.39-acre lot with a 3-bedroom single family residence. This will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
i. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Wastewater System & Potable Water Supply Permit WW-3-1428 for Donovan & Mary Fischer. This project consists of the construction of one single-family residence on an existing 1.39-acre parcel located on 390 Tozier Hill Road and is approved under the regulations and subject to conditions. This will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
j. Access New England re: Access New England Fall 2007. This publication highlights The ADA, State Codes and Universal Design: Untangling the Confusion. It will be forwarded to Henry Hotchkiss.
k. VT Emergency Management re: VT Municipal Advisory Commission: Grants Management Workshop. This email from Christine Brown, Grants Specialist, encourages attendance at the Grants Management Workshop on December 5th. (see Correspondence (f))
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 3
November 6, 2007
l. VT Enhanced 911 Board re: updating issues. This correspondence is a reminder to municipalities of their obligations regarding E-911. This will be forwarded to E-911 Coordinator, Donald Flynn.
m. DuBois & King, Inc. re: description of services. This company is a multi-discipline engineering firm. This will be forwarded to Building Committee Chair, Henry Hotchkiss.
n. SVE Associates re: description of services. These services include engineering, planning, landscape architecture and surveying. This postcard will be forwarded to Building Committee Chair, Henry Hotchkiss.
o. VLCT re: Health Trust Year in Review. This correspondence reviews what has taken place over the last year. It is also an invitation to attend the Health Trust Annual Meeting on November 16th in Montpelier. No action taken.
p. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Vermont Country Inn pond, Wetland Project #2007-479. This letter summarizes the conversation held during a site visit to the proposed pond site across from the Vermont Country Inn. As the proposed site for the pond is in a wetland, a Conditional Use Determination will need to be obtained. This will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
q. Rutland County Sheriffs Department re: September citation report. In September there were 18 traffic citations and 5 traffic warnings issued. This will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
r. VT Dept. of Taxes re: Order to Reappraise. Vermont law requires that a municipality maintain its education grand list at a common level of appraisal (CLA) that is at or above 80% and a coefficient of dispersion (COD) that is at or below 20%. It was determined that the CLA and/or the COD in Pittsfield were outside these acceptable parameters and therefore an order to reappraise is being issued. The municipality is required to respond to this order within 30 days. This will be forwarded to the Board of Listers for action.
s. VT Coalition of Municipalities re: 11th Annual Coalition Statewide Meeting. This meeting will be held on November 14th in Rutland. No action taken.
t. Wayne Symon re: Notice of Violation of Pittsfield Flood Hazard Regulations #03-07. This is a copy of the notice sent by Sarah Gray, Town Administrative Officer regarding construction/excavation taking place on property off of Parmenter Place. This will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
u. Multi-State Information Sharing & Analysis Center re: computer security awareness. This packet of information is part of an overall educational effort, which seeks to enhance state and local government cyber security preparedness. It includes booklets covering a variety of issues. No action taken.
Old Business
a. Road Commissioner job description re: review and approve. Mark and Peter reviewed the changes made at the last meeting and approved it with their signatures. This will be recorded by the Town Clerk with a copy forwarded to Road Commissioner George Deblon.
b. Reappraisal re: update from Listers. Martha said that the Listers have completed their interviews and made their selection. They are currently waiting for a contract, which they will review and forward to the Selectboard.
New Business
a. Town Roads/Highways re: sign damage. Vandalism of Town road signs had occurred recently. The vandals were caught and the signs replaced. As the parties were renting property from Wise Vacation Rentals, the Town has been informed that any bills related to this matter should be forwarded to Wise for payment.
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 4
November 6, 2007
b. Citizen Concern/Complaint re: Partridge Row vs Partridge Road. A property owner on this road has asked that the road name be changed to the original Partridge Row as their deeds and other documents are noted as such. It is not clear when the change was made from Row to Road. The Secretary was asked to send a letter to E-911 Coordinator Donald Flynn asking that he review this and respond.
The meeting adjourned at 6:15pm. The next Regular Selectboard meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 20, 2007 at 6:00pm at the Town Clerks Office.
Recorded by
Martha L. Beyersdorf
Secretary
Approved November 20, 2007
_______________________________________
Suana Bicek, Chair
_______________________________________
Mark Begin
_______________________________________
Peter Borden, Jr.
PITTSFIELD SELECTBOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
DATE: October 23, 2007
PRESENT: Suana Bicek, Mark Begin, Peter Borden, Jr., George Deblon, Sarah Gray, Scott Warren
AGENDA: Call to Order
Approve Minutes
Guests and Committee Reports
a. Sarah Gray re: Flood Hazard Violation Wayne Symon
b. George Deblon re: spending limits
c. Scott Warren re: First Response vehicle
Correspondence
a. Andy Weinberg re: 2008 Race Schedule needs approval
b. VT Housing & Conservation Board re: Towards a Shared Vision conference
c. TRORC re: seminar related to change in septic and water regulations
d. TRORC re: Minutes of September 25, 2007 meeting
e. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Reissuance of VT General Permit #NAE-2007-24
f. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: UST Closure Loewy Residence
g. TRORC re: FY09 Dues
h. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Application WW-3-1428 Donovan & Mary Fischer
i. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Project Review Sheet WW-3-1428 Donovan & Mary Fischer
j. Timberline Events re: Pittsfield GMR
k. VLCT re: Municipal Budgeting and Financial Management seminar
Old Business
a. Road Commissioner re: job description update
b. Permit for Driveway Construction Anthony Cotter at 90 Dove Drive
c. Computers re: proposal for HAVA Grant money
d. Sheriff Benard re: ticketing and ordinance changes
Other Business
a. Selectboard Meeting re: schedule
b. Garofalo trash pickup re: update
c. Request to Cater Malt and Vinous Beverages & Spirituous Liquors re: Courtney Desena
d. Town Property re: Sand Shed painting estimate
Adjourn
Suana called the meeting to order at 6:03pm. The Minutes of the October 9, 2007 meeting were approved with no corrections or changes.
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 2
October 23, 2007
Guests and Committee Reports
a. Sarah Gray re: Flood Hazard Violation Wayne Symon. Sarah said that concerns had been expressed to her regarding construction taking place on the Symon property on Parmenter Place and its proximity to the river. She said that she met with contractor Chris Johnson and two representatives from the State at the site. Sarah described what she saw and what Chris had done regarding excavation and relocation and/or placement of fill that was within the designated floodway of the Tweed River. Sarah said that the State would follow up as to whether a permit is needed. In the meantime she prepared a Notice of Violation of Pittsfield Flood Hazard Regulations #03-07 to send to Wayne Symon,
b. George Deblon re: spending limits. George expressed concern about the letter he recently received from the Board regarding spending caps. He thought the Board might have issues with how he performs his job. The Board assured him that he was doing a good job and they had no ill concerns. It was explained that the spending cap only pertained to amounts over $500 beyond what was budgeted for an item. George said that he had misunderstood. Suana asked if George would be willing to attend Selectboard meetings every three months and update the Board on how things are going. George agreed to attend.
c. Scott Warren re: First Response vehicle. Scott said that he took the First Response vehicle to Ted Greens for some repair work and felt that there were some issues he would like to bring to the Boards attention. The minimum cost for the immediate repairs is $2000.00 and he felt that there might be more substantial repair costs in the future, as the vehicle is 18 years old. He wondered if the Board would consider the purchase of a newer vehicle. He said that Greens had suggested to him a 4WD pickup truck with a cap with compartments. Discussion. It was felt that a pickup truck would not be the best choice as there would be no heat in the compartments. Scott agreed. The Board asked Scott to have the immediate repairs done and to also obtain some prices for a new used vehicle to present to the Board before January when budgeting is addressed. The item would then be Warned for Town Meeting in March.
Correspondence
a. Andy Weinberg re: 2008 Race Schedule needs approval. The schedule was reviewed at the October 9th meeting and no action was taken at that time. It was brought to the Boards attention at this meeting that he needed the approval of the Town for the use of Town roads for two of the races. The Board approved his request and the Secretary will forward this to him.
b. VT Housing & Conservation Board re: Towards a Shared Vision conference. This conference will be held November 6th. It focuses on challenges for the next decade in communities. No action taken.
c. TRORC re: seminar related to change in septic and water regulations. The VT Dept. of Environmental Conservation will be presenting this seminar on what authority Towns have after the July 1, 2007 date for implementing statewide jurisdiction over septic and water. They will focus on what Towns can and cannot do at the local level, recent revisions to the Rules, and statutory revisions that took effect in May. Five seminars will be held with two locally in Springfield (10/25) and Berlin (10/29). No action taken.
d. TRORC re: Minutes of September 25, 2007 meeting. No action taken.
e. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Reissuance of VT General Permit #NAE-2007-24. The Public Notice and Fact Sheet has been posted. No further action.
f. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: UST Closure Loewy Residence. This report relates to the recent removal of a 550-gallon underground storage tank (UST) from the property. Based on the report and the fact that leakage was noted, recommendations were made to the property owners regarding this issue. This will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 3
October 23, 2007
g. TRORC re: FY09 Dues. Dues for the Town of Pittsfield for next year will be $472.00, exactly the same has it has been in past years. This will be returned to Patty and brought up during the upcoming budget meetings.
h. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Application WW-3-1428 Donovan & Mary Fischer. The application for the development of a 1.39-acre lot with a 3-bedroom house located at 390 Tozier Hill Road has been received and begins its review process. This will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
i. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Project Review Sheet WW-3-1428 Donovan & Mary Fischer. This project to develop a 1.39-acre lot with a 3-bedroom house with on-site drilled well and wastewater disposal system will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
j. Timberline Events re: Pittsfield GMR. The race director thanked the Board for their approval and will keep the Town updates as things progress.
k. VLCT re: Municipal Budgeting and Financial Management seminar. This seminar will be held on November 15th. No action taken.
Old Business
a. Road Commissioner re: job description update. The Board re-read the section being changed and felt that the second sentence of the section entitled Responsibilities and Supervisory Regulations should be reworded to say, All expenditures in excess of $500.00 over budget must be pre-approved by the Select Board. This will be forwarded to Patty for updating.
b. Permit for Driveway Construction Anthony Cotter at 90 Dove Drive. This was discussed and approved at the October 9th meeting but not signed by the Board. It was signed and will be kept on file at the Town Clerks Office.
c. Computers re: proposal for HAVA Grant money. Patty provided copies of the proposal prepared by Synecology for new computers. The Clerk computer cost of $1800.00 is fully paid for by the HAVA Grant from the VT Secretary of States Office. The Asst. Clerks computer station, set-up fees and software come to $1480.00 and can be paid for from the GF budget. The detailed information was reviewed and discussed. Suana made a motion, seconded by Peter to approve the proposal. The Board approved the project and the 50% deposit needed for the purchase of the hardware.
d. Sheriff Benard re: ticketing and ordinance changes. Sheriff Benard was unable to attend tonights meeting and will be invited to either the November 6th or 20th meetings.
Other Business
a. Selectboard Meeting re: schedule. Suana said she will be unable to attend the November 6th meeting and Mark said he would be away on November 20th. Discussion of notifying Suana if a member is unable to attend a meeting, so that if two members cannot attend, the meeting can be rescheduled. No action taken.
b. Garofalo trash pickup re: update. Mark said that he met with Jon Benson and the Garofalos and Jon said he would try and pick up their trash at their residence on Butternut Lane. If there are occasions that he cannot do so (ex. unplowed snow, etc), he wont. All parties were in agreement.
c. Request to Cater Malt and Vinous Beverages & Spirituous Liquors re: Courtney Desena. Mark and Peter met on October 17, 2007 to address this request. The event was scheduled for October 20th at Riverside Farm. It was approved by Mark and Peter and is noted in these Minutes.
d. Town Property re: Sand Shed painting estimate. This estimate is for $2500.00 and work can begin early November 2007. This will be forwarded to Patty for discussion during budget meetings.
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 4
October 23, 2007
The meeting adjourned at 7:10pm. The next Regular Selectboard meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 6, 2007 at 6:00pm at the Town Clerks Office.
Recorded by
Martha L. Beyersdorf
Secretary
Approved November 6, 2007
_______________________________________
Suana Bicek, Chair
_______________________________________
Mark Begin
_______________________________________
Peter Borden, Jr.
PITTSFIELD SELECTBOARD REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
DATE: October 9, 2007
PRESENT: Suana Bicek, Peter Borden, Jr., Patty Haskins, Marion Abrams, Robert Salmeri, Martha Beyersdorf
AGENDA: Call to Order
Approve Minutes
a. August 21, 2007 Special Meeting
b. September 4, 2007 Regular Meeting
Guests and Committee Reports
a. Marion Abrams re: after school program
b. Robert Salmeri re: Clear River Tavern
Correspondence
a. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: #WW-3-1375 Wastewater System & Potable Water Supply Permit - Scott Harvey - 115 Graysville Drive
b. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: #WW-3-1375 Revised Scott Harvey
c. Culvert Rehabilitation Services re: introduction to services
d. White River Partnership re: Currents Fall 2007
e. Mark R. McManus, Architect re: Proposed Town Office Study
f. SVE Associates re: Donovan & Mary Fischer property 390 Tozier Hill Road
g. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: #WW-3-1400 Jeff MacLaughlin denial 250 Timberline Drive
h. TRORC re: Petroleum Sites Redevelopment Program
i. VT Department of Taxes re: Digital Orthophotography Quadrangles
j. TRORC re: Minutes of June 27, 2007 Annual Meeting
k. Rutland County Womens Network & Shelter re: Annual Report 2008
l. WRVA re: notification of road closings
m. Richard Garofalo & Paulette Pagnotta re: Town Trash Pickup
n. Pierce Hall Community Center Committee re: reaffirmation letter
o. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Project Review Sheet #WW-3-1408, Patrick and Susan Nicholls 469 Hawk Mountain Road
p. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Project Review Sheet #WW-3-1401, Canam Steel Corporation Liberty Hill Road
q. VT Judicial Bureau re: Report of Collection Town Detail 8/01-31/07
r. NeighborWorks of Western Vermont re: Availability of Affordable Homeowner Rehabilitation Loans
s. Rutland County Sheriffs Department re: August citation report
t. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: #WW-3-1400 Wastewater System & Potable Water Supply Permit - Jeff MacLaughlin
u. Timberline Events re: Green Mountain Relay 2008 update
v. Donald Flynn re: Local Update of Census Addresses (LUCA) Program project
w. Vermont State Infrastructure Bank re: Funding Available for Municipal Transportation Construction Projects
x. VT Agency of Natural Resources/Department of Environmental Conservation re: Out of the Blue Summer 2007 newsletter
y. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: #WW 3-1401 Wastewater System & Potable Water Supply Permit Canam Steel Corporation
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 2
October 9, 2007
z. U.S. Census Bureau re: Local Update of Census Addresses (LUCA) Program
aa. Andy Weinberg re: 2008 Race Schedule
bb. VT Agency of Natural Resources re: Project Review Sheet #WW-3-1400 Jeff MacLaughlan 250 Timberline Drive
cc. VT Dept. of Environmental Conservation re: #WW-3-1408 Patrick and Susan Nicholls 469 Hawk Mountain Road
dd. VLCT re: VLCT News October 2007
ee. Rutland County Sheriffs Department re: September Activity Report
ff. TRORC re: Transportation Board Hearings
gg. 100 on 100 Relay re: thank you note
hh. VT Secretary of State re: Opinions October 2007
Old Business
a. Grants Help America Vote Act (HAVA) money received
b. Reappraisal Bids re: results
c. Town Funds re: monthly review
d. Road Commissioner re: spending limits for road work (prior approvals)
e. Town Roads/Highways re: speed bumps
New Business
a. Liquor License re: Maggie Entertainment Corp, d/b/a Clear River Tavern
b. Tax Appeal re: Riverside Horse Farm LLC appealing to Superior Court
c. Tax Appeal re: Albert and Harriet Leavitt appealing to Director Property Valuation & Review (PVR)
d. Fundraising Committee re: raised $4,532.44 for Town Office renovation
e. VLCT re: insurance renewal application
f. Permit for Driveway Construction Anthony Cotter at 90 Dove Drive
g. Green Up Vermont re: Selection of Town Coordinator
h. Resignation re: Town Auditor John Kennedy
i. Appointment re: Town Auditor Patricia Fuster
j. Resignation re: Planning Commission Jerry Drugonis
k. Citizen Concern/Complaint re: Town Office Building
Other Business
a. Town Roads/Highways re: setback distances
b. TRORC Representative re: Jerry Drugonis
c. Planning Commission re: current membership update
d. Town Roads/Highways re: traffic survey and parking ordinance
e. Selectboard Secretary re: additional pay for meeting
Adjourn
Suana called the meeting to order at 6:00pm. The Minutes of the August 21, 2007 Special Meeting was approved and signed by Mark. Peter signed them at the last meeting. The Minutes of the September 4, 2007 Regular Meeting were approved with no corrections or changes.
Pittsfield Selectboard Minutes page 3
October 9, 2007
Guests and Committee Reports
a. Marion Abrams re: after school program. Marion said that the Library is beginning an after school problem which will begin on October 30th. It will be held on Tuesdays from 3:30 5:00pm. It has been determined that because the Library is a municipal library and staffed by elected Trustees, it can be run under the Towns insurance. She presented an informational handout outlining the program as well as other activities that will be taking place